IOL insertion apparatus and method for using same
US6723104B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 13, 2002 |
| Grant date | Apr 20, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 13, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2/167
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus for inserting intraocular lenses (IOLs) into eyes are disclosed. The apparatus comprises an insertion tube, and an injector rod having a distal tip capable of engaging an intraocular lens. A guide assembly is provided to direct the distal tip of the rod radially outwardly as it moves distally through the insertion tube. The radial movement of the tip is controlled such that the tip contacts a proximal edge, rather than a fold, of the IOL. The tip exerts little or no pressure on the bottom wall of the IOL cartridge, with any incidental pressure varying as the tip moves distally. In one embodiment, the guide assembly also includes a component for allowing the tip to return upward after contacting the IOL, thus decreasing or eliminating the pressure on the wall as the rod tip continues through a narrower diameter exit portion of the cartridge. Methods for inserting an IOL into an eye using such apparatus are also disclosed and are within the scope of the present invention.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.