Ocular socket prosthesis

US6346121B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• The Lions Eye Institute of Western Australia, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Celia Hicks · Dubbo, AU
• Anthony J. Clayton · Melbourne, AU
• Traian Vasile Chirila · Joondalup, AU
• Geoffrey Crawford · Perth, AU
• Ian Constable · Fremantle, AU
• Janet Fitton · Jabiru, AU

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 22, 1999
• Grant date: Feb 12, 2002
• Expiry date: Nov 22, 2019

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61L2430/16
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

The invention provides an ocular socket prosthesis comprising a hydrogel consisting essentially of a biocompatible hydrophilic polymer onto which tissues can be directly sutured. Preferably the prosthesis comprises the polymer both in its homogeneous gel form and in its sponge form, and the two forms are chemically joined at their interface via an interpenetrating polymer network (IPN). However, it is also contemplated that the prosthesis of the invention may be made predominantly or entirely from the sponge form of the polymer. Methods of production of the prosthesis of the invention and of surgical implantation are also disclosed and claimed.