Abstract: Mechanically activated objects or devices for use in treating degenerative retinal diseases are provided. Such devices apply mechanical forces to tissues of an eye to effectuate treatment and are configured for chronic implantation (thereby applying chronic stimulation/irritation) in or on the eye. The devices may be configured for contact with a retina of the eye, preferably positioned in a subretinal space. Various embodiments comprise a moving member configured for chronic contact with at least a portion of the eye, which moving member is activated by an actuator. In some embodiments, the actuator may be distally located relative to the moving member. Alternatively, the moving member may be supported by a body member that, optionally, also supports the actuator.

Abstract: Mechanically activated objects or devices for use in treating degenerative retinal diseases are provided. Such devices apply mechanical forces to tissues of an eye to effectuate treatment and are configured for chronic implantation (thereby applying chronic stimulation/irritation) in or on the eye. The devices may be configured for contact with a retina of the eye, preferably positioned in a subretinal space. Various embodiments comprise a moving member configured for chronic contact with at least a portion of the eye, which moving member is activated by an actuator. In some embodiments, the actuator may be distally located relative to the moving member. Alternatively, the moving member may be supported by a body member that, optionally, also supports the actuator.

Abstract: Implantable hermetically sealed structures and methods for making the same are provided. Also provided are devices, systems and kits including the hermetically sealed structures, as well as methods of using such devices and systems.

Abstract: Mechanically activated objects or devices for use in treating degenerative retinal diseases are provided. Such devices apply mechanical forces to tissues of an eye to effectuate treatment and are configured for chronic implantation (thereby applying chronic stimulation/irritation) in or on the eye. The devices may be configured for contact with a retina of the eye, preferably positioned in a subretinal space. Various embodiments comprise a moving member configured for chronic contact with at least a portion of the eye, which moving member is activated by an actuator. In some embodiments, the actuator may be distally located relative to the moving member. Alternatively, the moving member may be supported by a body member that, optionally, also supports the actuator.

Abstract: Diamond-like carbon films are deposited on devices for implantation in tissues of a living body, preferably, retinal implants. Openings may be formed in the diamond-like carbon film, preferably in alignment with portions of the device intended for electrical contact with surrounding tissues, i.e., electrodes. Alternatively, the diamond-like carbon film may be rendered electrically conductive. Furthermore, the diamond-like carbon films may be created in such a manner that they are substantially transparent to various wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation, including visible and/or infrared light. In a presently preferred embodiment, the diamond-like carbon film is deposited using a magnetically-filtered, cathodic arc physical vapor deposition process. Implantable devices, particularly retinal implants, comprising a diamond-like carbon film may exhibit excellent biocompatibility and biodurability properties in comparison with prior art devices and passivation coatings.