Implantable intraocular pressure drain

US8585630B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · US

Inventors

• Ellis Meng · Alhambra, US
• Po-Jui Chen · Taichung, TW
• Damien C. Rodger · South Pasadena, US
• Yu-Chong Tai · Pasadena, US
• Mark Humayun · Glendale, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 23, 2012
• Grant date: Nov 19, 2013
• Expiry date: Jul 23, 2032

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16K2099/0086
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

An implanted parylene tube shunt relieves intra-ocular pressure. The device is implanted with an open end in the anterior chamber of the eye, allowing excess fluid to be drained through the tube out of the eye. In one embodiment, only a first end of the tube implanted into the anterior chamber of the eye is open. Intra-ocular pressure (IOP) is then monitored, for example utilizing an implanted sensor. When IOP exceeds a critical valve, a practitioner intervenes, puncturing with a laser a thinned region of the tube lying outside the eye, thereby initiating drainage of fluid and relieving pressure. In accordance with alternative embodiments, the both ends of the tube are open, and the tube includes a one-way valve configured to permit drainage where IOP exceeds the critical value. The tube may include projecting barbs to anchor the tube in the eye without the need for sutures.