Studies & Publications
For over two decades, Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) has been studied in clinical settings around the world. The following peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and clinical trials collectively demonstrate PNT’s safety, effectiveness, and potential as a non-invasive treatment for primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and ocular hypertension (OH).
Key Findings Consistently Reported:
Safe and Well-Tolerated
Significant IOP Reduction
Compatible With Medications
Non-Invasive & Repeatable
A Comparative Study of the Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty and Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty for Patients with Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma or Ocular Hypertension
Authors: Yanling Song, Qiujie Song, Yanhui Qin, Jinfeng Xu, Ping Chen, Hong Li, Wenjie Han
Journal: Medical Science Monitor
Publication Date: December 27, 2021
Summary:
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of pneumatic trabeculoplasty (PNT) versus selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) in treating primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and ocular hypertension (OHT). A total of 120 eyes were randomly assigned to either the PNT or SLT group. Over a 3-month follow-up, the PNT group demonstrated a significantly greater opening of the anterior chamber angle and a more substantial reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) compared to the SLT group. The study concluded that while both treatments effectively reduce IOP, PNT offers superior short-term efficacy.
Efficacy of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: P Ceruti, M. Marraffa, R. Morbio, G. Bertoldo, G. Marchini
Journal: Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science (IOVS)
Publication Date: May 2006
Summary:
This study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) in 14 patients with primary open-angle glaucoma who were also using antiglaucoma medications. PNT significantly reduced intraocular pressure (IOP), with the greatest drop (21%) seen on Day 8 and lasting effects through Day 120. No side effects were reported. Ultrasound imaging showed that PNT did not change the shape of the eye’s drainage angle but did thin the ciliary body and increase tissue reflectivity, suggesting improved fluid outflow. The results support PNT as a safe and effective non-invasive treatment for lowering IOP.
Safety and Efficacy of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty in African Population
Authors: G. Prigione, A. Hesse, M. Iester, M. Rolando, G. Calabria
Affiliations: Clinica Oculistica, DINOG, University of Genoa; Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria “San Martino,” Genoa, Italy
Location of Study: Ghana
Summary:
This study was conducted on 42 patients (82 eyes) in Ghana to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) in treating primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and ocular hypertension (OHT). The mean intraocular pressure (IOP) dropped significantly from 25.71 mmHg to 21.82 mmHg after treatment, with 87.8% of eyes responding positively to the procedure.
No serious complications were observed. The authors concluded that PNT is a safe, effective, and low-cost treatment option that is especially useful in developing countries where patient follow-up is challenging. It is easy to perform and suitable even for non-ophthalmologist practitioners under appropriate guidance.
Efficacy of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty in Ocular Hypertension and Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma and Anatomical Impact Evaluated by Ultrasound Biomicroscopy
Authors: Olivier Lichtwitz, Martial Mercié, Michèle Boissonnot, Nicolas Leveziel
Institution: Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Poitiers, Bordeaux, France
Journal: Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science (IOVS)
Publication Date: June, 2015
Summary:
This 6-month study in France found that Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) safely reduced intraocular pressure by an average of 4.7 mmHg in 83% of treated eyes. Imaging showed a decrease in ciliary body area, suggesting reduced fluid production as the mechanism of action. The findings suggest that PNT effectively reduces intraocular pressure (IOP).
The Effect of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty on Intraocular Pressure: Results of a 6-Month, Open-Label, Multicenter Study
Authors: Paolo Fogagnolo, Luca Rossetti, Giuseppe Marchini, Marco Marraffa, Massimo Rolando, Mauro Ciancaglini, Giovanni Calabria, Luca Mastropasqua, Nicola Orzalesi
Journal: European Journal of Ophthalmology
Publication Date: November–December 2008
Summary:
This 6-month, open-label, multicenter clinical trial assessed the efficacy of pneumatic trabeculoplasty (PNT) in reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) among patients with glaucoma and ocular hypertension. The study found that PNT led to a statistically significant IOP reduction at all follow-up visits (p < 0.0001), with an average decrease of approximately 12.8%. The findings suggest that PNT is an effective and safe procedure for lowering IOP in these patient populations.
The Efficacy of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension
Authors: Li Ya Qiao, Yuan Bo Liang, Qing Jun Lu, Xin Tang, Yi Peng, Hong Chen, Shu Zhen Guo, Ning Li Wang
Journal: Ophthalmology in China
Publication Date: January 25, 2010
Summary:
This case series evaluated the efficacy of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) in 30 patients with primary open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. The study observed a statistically significant reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) over a two-month follow-up period, with 83% of eyes achieving more than a 15% decrease in IOP. The authors concluded that PNT is a safe and effective non-invasive treatment option for lowering IOP in these patient populations.
Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty: A New Method to Treat Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma and Reduce the Number of Concomitant Medications
Authors: Guillermo Avalos Urzúa, Leo D. Bores, John T. Livecchi
Journal: Annals of Ophthalmology
Publication Date: March 2005
Summary:
This publication presents findings from two nonrandomized clinical studies evaluating Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) in a total of 494 eyes. The first study involved 177 patients and assessed feasibility, while the second included 317 patients and focused on efficacy. Both studies concluded that PNT is a safe and effective treatment for lowering intraocular pressure and reducing the need for antiglaucoma medications in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma.
The authors found the risks of the procedure to be no greater than those associated with other noninvasive ophthalmic tests, such as tonometry and cycloplegia.
Pilot Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty in Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension
Authors: M.G. Bucci, M. Centofanti, F. Oddone, M. Parravano, C. Balacco Gabrieli, J. Pecori-Giraldi, A. Librando, E. Paone, L.D. Bores
Journal: European Journal of Ophthalmology
Publication Date: May–June 2005
Summary:
This multicenter pilot study assessed the efficacy and safety of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) as a standalone treatment for patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) or ocular hypertension (OH). Thirty-seven subjects underwent PNT without concurrent glaucoma medications. The study found that PNT effectively reduced intraocular pressure (IOP) in the treated eyes over a 120-day follow-up period. The procedure was well-tolerated, with no significant adverse events reported, suggesting that PNT is a safe and effective non-invasive option for lowering IOP in patients with POAG or OH.
Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty with Prostaglandin Monotherapy: An Option for Lowering IOP
Author: Cheryl Guttman Krader
Source: Healio – Ocular Surgery News
Publication Date: May 1, 2012
Summary:
Based on the clinical experience of Dr. Jean-Pierre Nordmann, Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) is a safe and effective option for reducing intraocular pressure without causing harm to the eye. He emphasizes its value for patients who are pregnant, poorly compliant with medications, or sensitive to drug side effects; highlighting PNT as an ideal non-invasive solution for these challenging cases.
Efficacy and Safety of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty Versus Timolol Added to Latanoprost in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: M. Kocabora, M. Ozsutçu, N. Kandemir, E. Gocmez, K. Fazıl, G. Gulkilik
Journal: Clinica Terapeutica
Publication Date: 2013
Summary:
This study compared the additive intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering effects of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) versus timolol in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) already receiving latanoprost therapy. Thirty eyes of 30 patients were randomized to receive either PNT or a fixed combination of latanoprost and timolol. Both treatment groups achieved significant IOP reductions over a three-month period, with PNT demonstrating efficacy comparable to the pharmacologic combination. The study concluded that PNT is a safe and effective non-pharmacologic alternative for enhancing IOP control in POAG patients.
Efficacy of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) in Patients with Open-Angle Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension – A Preliminary Report
Authors: Joanna Wierzbowska, Andrzej Stankiewicz, Łucja Romańska
Journal: Klinika Oczna / Acta Ophthalmologica Polonica
Publication Date: September 15, 2008
Summary:
This preliminary study assessed the efficacy and safety of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) in patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) and ocular hypertension (OH). Fourteen patients (24 eyes) underwent PNT treatment, with follow-up periods ranging from 4 to 12 months. The study observed a significant reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) post-treatment, with sustained effects over the follow-up period. Minor transient side effects, such as conjunctival hyperemia and mild subconjunctival hemorrhages, were noted but resolved without intervention. The authors concluded that PNT is an effective and safe method for lowering IOP in patients with OAG and OH.
Changes of Anterior Chamber Before and After Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension
Authors: Gao Dong-hong, Lu Hui, Li Kai-jun, Zhang Dong-xiang, Yao Xue
Journal: Journal of Shandong University (Otolaryngology and Ophthalmology)
Summary:
This clinical study evaluated anatomical changes in the anterior chamber of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and ocular hypertension (OHT) undergoing Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT). A total of 30 patients (53 eyes) were examined using Oculyzer imaging before treatment and at 7 and 30 days post-treatment. The study found a significant increase in anterior chamber angle and a meaningful reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) following PNT. The authors suggest that mechanical traction on the trabecular meshwork may be a contributing mechanism for PNT’s IOP-lowering effect. The findings support PNT as a beneficial option for structural and pressure-related management in POAG and OHT patients.
Evaluation of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) on Intraocular Pressure with Different Treatment Sequences in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: A. Librando, E. Pacella, A. Gabrielli, S. D’Angelo, S. De Gaetano, I. Pecori Giral
Journal: Bollettino di Oculistica (Italian Ophthalmological Bulletin), Anno 85, No. 4, 2006
Publication Date: 2006
Summary:
This study evaluated the effect of three sequential PNT treatments over 30 days in 30 eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma. Significant intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction was observed at all measured time points, with benefits lasting up to 6 months. The procedure was safe, well-tolerated, and caused no vision loss or optic nerve damage. PNT proved to be a non-invasive, effective complement to medical therapy.
Efficacy of Pneumotrabeculoplasty in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension
Authors: M.G. Uva, A. Longo, M. Reibaldi, A. Reibaldi
Institution: Università di Catania, Clinica Oculistica, Italy
Conference: ARVO 2007 (Poster #863, B766)
Summary:
This clinical study evaluated Pneumotrabeculoplasty (PNT) in 25 eyes from 19 patients over a 9-month period. Patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) or ocular hypertension (OH) were treated using the PNT Unit 1000 (Ophthalmic International). Results showed significant intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction sustained in many cases for up to 9 months, with nearly half of eyes showing >20% IOP reduction after 3 months. No serious complications were observed, and the treatment was well-tolerated. The study concluded that PNT is a safe, non-invasive, and effective option for managing IOP in POAG and OH patients, particularly in elderly populations.
Effect of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) on Intraocular Pressure in Patients with Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Michaela Hör, Indre Offermann, Albert J. Augustin
Institution: Department of Ophthalmology, Klinikum Karlsruhe, Germany
Conference: ARVO 2007 (Poster B768)
Summary:
This case series evaluated 28 eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) undergoing Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) while continuing Latanoprost therapy. PNT treatments were performed at 0, 7, 90, 180, 270, and 360 days. After 52 weeks, a mean intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction of 2.8 mmHg (from 20.2 to 17.4 mmHg) was observed (P<0.01). No serious side effects occurred; only mild conjunctival hyperemia and minor corneal issues were reported. Visual acuity, perimetry, and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) remained stable throughout. The study concluded that PNT is a safe and effective adjunct therapy for lowering IOP in POAG patients.
Evaluation of Efficacy and Safety of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty in Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension
Authors: L. Antico, R. Nicoletti, C.A. Martorana, A. Mauceri, C. Fabiani, V. Gioia
Institution: Department of Ophthalmology, Ospedali Civili Riuniti di Sciacca, Sciacca, Italy
Summary:
This study evaluated Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) in 79 eyes from 40 patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) or ocular hypertension (OH). PNT was performed on days 0 and 7, and patients were followed for 6 months. Results showed a statistically significant intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction at all time points, with a 20% decrease observed as early as the first day. The effect was consistent across patients with or without concurrent topical therapy. The procedure was generally well-tolerated, with conjunctival hyperemia reported in all eyes and minor hemorrhages in a few. The authors concluded that PNT is a safe and effective method for lowering IOP, though long-term studies are recommended to confirm durability and identify risk factors for treatment failure.
Trabecular Meshwork Stretching: An Alternative Therapy for Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: P.F. Pacella, P. Turchetti, E. Pacella, A. Librando, F. Badalà, S. De Gaetano, C. Balacco Gabrieli
Institutions: Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rome “La Sapienza,” Rome, Italy; Mediterranean Ocular Microsurgery, Catania, Italy
Conference: ARVO 2008
Summary:
This study investigated the safety, efficacy, and repeatability of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) in 32 patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). PNT was performed on days 1, 7, and 30, with the full treatment protocol repeated every six months for three cycles. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was significantly reduced from a baseline of 19.02 mmHg to 16.32 mmHg—a consistent 16.6% reduction during each interval. No significant complications were reported. Ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) revealed ciliary body thinning, suggesting improved aqueous outflow. The study concluded that PNT is a safe, effective, and repeatable treatment option, particularly for patients with inadequate response to medical therapy.
Efficacy and Safety of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) in Ocular Hypertensive Eyes: 6-Month Follow-Up
Authors: F. Verboschi, A. Librando, G. Lauria, P. Grenga, M. Marenco, E.M. Vingolo
Institutions: University of Rome “La Sapienza” and affiliated hospitals, Italy
Conference: ARVO 2010 (Session 124 – Poster Presentation)
Summary:
This study assessed the safety and intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering efficacy of Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) in 30 eyes with ocular hypertension over 6 months. Treatments were administered on days 0, 7, and 90. Of the 30 participants, 25 completed the study. A mean IOP reduction of 3.5 mmHg (from 22.7 to 19.2 mmHg) was observed at day 180. No significant changes in visual field or retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness were detected. Minor side effects resolved without complications. The study concluded that PNT is a safe and effective treatment with potential to reduce reliance on topical medications and healthcare costs.