Glaucoma implant with a temporary flow restricting seal
US5476445A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 1, 1994 |
| Grant date | Dec 19, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 1, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M27/002
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An implant for use in the treatment of glaucoma is disclosed wherein the implant comprises an elastomeric plate having a non-valved elastomeric drainage tube attached thereto. The plate is curved so as to conform to the spherical anatomy of the eyeball. An annular sloped wall extends from the plate and surrounds the opening of the drainage tube into the plate. The plate is inserted beneath Tenon's capsule and sutured to the sclera utilizing temporary and non-dissolving permanent sutures. The annular wall provides a temporary sealing surface against the sclera. The drainage tube is tunnelled through the sclera and cornea and inserted into the anterior chamber, thus providing fluid communication between the anterior chamber and the elastomeric plate. The annular wall around the tube forms a temporary seal which restricts the drainage of aqueous fluid until formation of the bleb is completed. After bleb formation occurs, the temporary sutures around the wall are removed or dissolve. Once the temporary sutures are gone, the portion of the plate that is not stitched to the sclera floats within the bleb and breaks the seal between the implant and the sclera. Once the seal is broken, unre…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.