First successful PreserFlo implantation for glaucoma treatment in Riyadh
The health sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has recorded a new medical achievement, as the Center of Excellence for Eyes, affiliated with the First Riyadh Health Cluster, announced its remarkable success in performing the first micro-implantation operation using the “PreserFlo MicroShunt” technology to treat glaucoma (blue water) within Al-Iman General Hospital, in a step that reflects the rapid development of specialized medical services in the capital.
Medical Background: Challenges of Treating Glaucoma.
Glaucoma, locally known as "blue water," is a leading cause of vision loss worldwide if not addressed and treated promptly. The danger of the disease lies in the elevated intraocular pressure, which gradually damages the optic nerve. Traditionally, surgical procedures available to lower eye pressure were complex and required lengthy recovery periods, making the search for less invasive and safer alternatives a pressing need in modern ophthalmology.
The details of this medical achievement
: This delicate medical procedure was overseen by consultant Dr. Hassan Al-Kwikbi, and this success marks the official launch of a new phase in optic nerve disease treatment protocols in the Kingdom. The "PreserFlo" technique involves implanting a very fine tube that helps drain excess fluid from the eye, leading to a reduction in intraocular pressure at very high and stable safety levels.
This technique is characterized by being an effective alternative that reduces the need for complex traditional surgical interventions (such as trabeculectomy), and it also ensures long-term therapeutic stability for patients and reduces possible post-operative complications, thus accelerating the patient's return to his normal life.
Record numbers and an advanced operating model:
This achievement comes as the culmination of a record-breaking year for the Center of Excellence for Eyes, as official statistics revealed that the center provided more than 44,438 diagnostic and treatment services during 2025. The medical teams successfully performed 3,016 diverse surgical operations, which included a wide range of subspecialties, starting with cataract and glaucoma surgeries, through retinal surgeries and corneal transplants, and up to endoscopic orbital repair and vision correction.
the strategic importance and localization of treatment
, the center's Medical Director, Dr. Mohammed Al-Anzi, emphasized that transforming this massive operational capacity into tangible healthcare value reflects the maturity of the center's medical model. The introduction of these advanced technologies comes within the framework of the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to localize advanced medical technologies and build globally competitive national capabilities, thus reducing the need to send patients abroad and providing the latest treatment solutions within the country, in line with the objectives of the Health Sector Transformation Program and the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
