Method of and device for improving the flow of aqueous humor within the eye
US6726676B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 5, 2000 |
| Grant date | Apr 27, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 5, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F9/00781
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method for improving the draining of aqueous humor in an eye of a living being and a device for widening the Schlemm's canal is described wherein a first incision is made in a lamellar section of the sclera to form a first scleral flap which is then folded upwards in the direction of the cornea, thereby creating a recess in the sclera. A second scleral flap is formed by incising a second lamellar section in the area of the recess and lifted upwardly in the direction of the first sclera flap, thereby exposing two opposite openings into the Schlemm's canal into which an expanding medium is injected into the Schlemm's canal; formation of a slitlike passageway connecting the aqueous humor-permeable Descemet-membrane with the subscleral space is realized by detaching the Descemet-membrane on the area of the Schwalbe's line by means of a slight pressure force; and subsequently, the first scleral flap folded back, after severance of the second scleral flap, for placement upon a support surface formed as a consequence of the incision of the second lamellar section. Subsequently, a viscous medium is injected into a subscleral space formed behind the first scleral flap and the first sclera…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.