Minimal effective plate: rethinking plate size in glaucoma drainage devices - Takeaways - MDSpire
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Reevaluating Plate Dimensions in Glaucoma Drainage Devices: The Case for Smaller Sizes

  • By

  • Giovanni Rubegni

  • Mostafa Dowidar

  • Salman Sadiq

  • September 16, 2026

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  • 1

    The optimal size for glaucoma drainage devices (GDDs) may be smaller than the traditionally favored 350 mm² plate.

  • 2

    Comparative studies show no significant differences in outcomes between 250 mm² and 350 mm² Baerveldt devices.

  • 3

    Long-term data indicate that increasing plate size beyond a certain point may not improve outcomes and could lead to adverse effects.

  • 4

    The PAUL Glaucoma Implant (PGI) features a narrower tube lumen and shows comparable efficacy to Baerveldt while minimizing hypotony risk.

  • 5

    Future GDD designs may focus on smaller plates and innovative materials rather than solely increasing surface area for better outcomes.

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