Clinical experience with the Molteno dual-chamber single-plate implant.

A Molteno dual-chamber single-plate implant was placed in 40 consecutive patients, who were followed for a minimum of 6 months. This implant is identical to the single-plate Molteno implant, except for the addition of a pressure ridge to the upper surface of the episcleral plate, which allows the episcleral tissues to function as a temporary, pressure-sensitive valve, limiting the escape of aqueous in the early postoperative period. Confirming earlier studies, we found that use of the modified implant reduced immediate postoperative hypotony, eliminated choroidal hemorrhage, and, by obviating ligature of the silicone tube, permitted immediate reduction of elevated intraocular pressure.