Devices and methods for opening fluid passageways
US8109896B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 11, 2008 |
| Grant date | Feb 7, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 13, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F9/00781
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Devices and procedures for assisting drainage of aqueous humor from the eye are provided. In accordance with some embodiments, an implant sized to fit within the Schlemm's Canal is provided. The implant has a plurality of penetrating members having an unextended position in which the penetrating members lie generally close to the longitudinal axis of the implant and an extended position in which the penetrating members are extended outward. In use, the implant is advanced around at least a substantial portion of the Schlemm's Canal with the penetrating members in the first unextended position. After the implant is positioned within the Schlemm's Canal, the penetrating members are caused to move from the first unextended position to the second extended position, wherein the penetrating members penetrate the wall of the Schlemm's Canal. This creates fluid passageways in the wall of the Schlemm's Canal. The implant can also serve to keep the Schlemm's Canal open. A delivery device is also provided for implanting an implant into the Schlemm's Canal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.