Ophthalmic implant for treatment of glaucoma

US8034105B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• iScience lnterventional Corporation · US

Inventors

• Robert Stegmann · Pretoria, ZA
• Stanley R. Conston · Redwood City, US
• David J. Kupiecki · San Francisco, US
• John McKenzie · Redwood City, US
• Candice D. Pinson · Santa Clara, US
• Ronald Yamamoto · San Francisco, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 16, 2005
• Grant date: Oct 11, 2011
• Expiry date: Jun 30, 2028

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61F9/00781
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A method is provided for increasing the outflow of fluid through Schlemm's canal that is useful for treatment of glaucoma. The implant is placed in Schlemm's canal by use of a flexible delivery instrument attached to the implant. The instrument and implant are positioned within the canal, the implant is released and the distal and proximal ends of the implant are connected to apply sufficient axial tensioning force on the inner wall of the canal to increase fluid permeability. In another embodiment a delivery instrument attached to the implant is positioned in the canal securing one of the distal or proximal ends of the implant within the canal. The implant provides sufficient axial tensioning force on the inner wall of the canal to increase fluid permeability of the inner wall of the canal. The other of the distal or proximal ends may be secured to maintain the tensioning force on the inner wall of the canal.