Eyeball Patents (Class 600/236)
  • Patent number: 11896209
    Abstract: An ophthalmic speculum includes arms, a locking mechanism, and an air-flow system. The arms include a first arm and a second arm. Each arm has a retractor shaped to conform to an eyelid of a pair of eyelids of an eye. The retractors are substantially symmetrical about a lateral axis. The locking mechanism is coupled to the arms. The locking mechanism moves the arms to allow the retractors to retract the pair of eyelids, and fixes the arms into place to maintain retraction of the pair of eyelids. The air-flow system is coupled to at least one arm, and moves air in a region disposed outwardly from a surface of the eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: Alcon Inc.
    Inventors: Mario Abraham, Michael Wittnebel
  • Patent number: 11523896
    Abstract: A device for reducing the incidence of surgical debris migration within a mammalian eye comprising an anterior portion, the anterior portion with an anterior inner surface and an opposing anterior outer surface, the anterior inner surface and the anterior outer surface terminating at an anterior edge that defines an open anterior end; and a posterior portion, with a posterior inner surface and an opposing posterior outer surface, the posterior inner surface and the posterior outer surface terminating at a posterior edge, the posterior edge defining an open posterior end; and a waist connecting the anterior portion and the posterior portion, the waist comprising a waist inner surface and an opposing waist outer surface; and an aperture extending from the open anterior end, through the waist, and to the open posterior end, the aperture bounded by the anterior inner surface, the waist inner surface, and the posterior inner surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2022
    Inventor: Kevin L. Waltz
  • Patent number: 11172916
    Abstract: Systems, devices and methods for dilating and/or expanding the iris of a patient's eye during eye surgery is disclosed, comprising an elastomeric ring made from biocompatible material having a groove formed therein for receiving and protecting the pupillary rim and iris, whereby, when the ring is inserted into the pupil of an eye of a patient, it mechanically dilates the pupil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Inventor: Peter Zacharia
  • Patent number: 11051797
    Abstract: An eyelid speculum, a kit containing the eyelid speculum, and a method of using the eyelid speculum in the diagnosis and/or treatment of a patient are provided. The eyelid speculum includes a central ring having an upper surface, a lower surface, an inner side surface, an outer side surface, a first end, and a second end. The first end and the second end are separated by a gap, and the central ring defines an opening. The eyelid speculum also includes first and second eyelid margin holders that extend outwardly from the outer side surface of the central ring at the first end and second end, respectively, where each eyelid margin holder has an upper portion and a lower portion. In addition, the eyelid speculum includes finger tabs that extend upwardly from the upper portions of the first and second eyelid margin holders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2021
    Assignee: BioGenware, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey G. Gross, John Lowsky, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10898382
    Abstract: A single-piece patient interface device (PI) for coupling an patient's eye to an ophthalmic surgical laser system, which includes a rigid shell, a flexible suction ring joined to a lower edge of the shell, an applanation lens, and a flexible annular diaphragm which joins the applanation lens to the shell near the lower edge of the shell. The flexible diaphragm allows the applanation lens to move relative to the shell, including to shift in longitudinal and lateral directions of the shell and to tilt. In operation, the surgeon first secures the PI to the patient's eye by hand, and then couples the laser system to the PI by lowering the laser delivery head into the PI shell. During the lowering process, the laser delivery head presses the applanation lens down relative to the PI to applanate the cornea of the eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: AMO Development, LLC
    Inventors: Roger W. Accurso, Jose L. Garcia, Daryl Wong, Hong Fu, Harvey Liu, Leonard R. Borrmann
  • Patent number: 10729504
    Abstract: An apparatus for manipulating tissue during a procedure performed within an eye of a patient is disclosed herein. The apparatus includes a hand-held controller and an elongate member configured to be inserted into the eye of the patient. The elongate member has a proximal end and a distal end, with the proximal end of the elongate member being coupled to the hand-held controller. The elongate member also has a lumen extending through the length of the elongate member. The apparatus further includes a plurality of flexible grasping fibers extending through at least a portion of the lumen and beyond the distal end thereof. The grasping fibers are adjustable by the hand-held controller to advance or retract relative to the elongate member by altering a distance between distal ends of the grasping fibers and the distal end of the elongate member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Assignee: Alcon Inc.
    Inventor: Philipp Schaller
  • Patent number: 10660629
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for illuminating the eye. This illumination may be by lamellar illumination, scleral scatter and retro illumination or a combination thereof. The apparatus comprises a speculum assembly and at least one light emitter assembly. The speculum assembly is adapted for magnetic attachment and includes a pair of flexible retractor arms extending from a speculum handle, each retractor arm including a retractor located distally from the speculum handle. The light emitter assembly is adapted for magnetic attachment and includes at least one flexible extension extending from a battery and circuit housing. The flexible extension includes a terminal optic emitter for adjusting the angle of inclination of light emitted therefrom. The speculum assembly and the light emitter assembly are magnetically mated together at one or more points of magnetic contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Assignee: Mindskid Labs, LLC
    Inventor: Alan Wesley Brown
  • Patent number: 10537473
    Abstract: An iris-expanding device injector assembly is described. The iris-expanding device injector assembly has a handle, a slider and/or button coupled with the handle and configured to slide with respect to the handle, a cannula coupled with the handle, the cannula configured to slide in to and out from a holder containing an iris-expanding device, and a hook housed within the cannula.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2020
    Assignee: Microsurgical Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Boris Malyugin, Vaclav Dusek, Lawrence Laks
  • Patent number: 10499898
    Abstract: The use of red or near infrared light upon neurons of the lumbar plexus that are in distress due to retraction-induced ischemia. The surgeon may protect nerves made ischemic in the surgery by: a) making an incision in a patient, b) inserting an access device into the patient through the incision to at least partially create a path to a spine of the patient, and c) irradiating nervous tissue adjacent the path with an amount of NIR or red light effective to provide neuroprotection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2019
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas M. DiMauro, William Horton
  • Patent number: 10433828
    Abstract: In a first aspect of the subject invention, an iris expander is provided which includes a non-metallic, unitary, multi-segmented body which is expandable from a first state to a second state. The second state defines a larger footprint than the first state with the body being defined by a plurality of segments connected by living hinges. In a further aspect, an iris expander is provided which includes a multi-segmented body that is expandable from a first state to a larger-footprint second state. At least one aperture is formed in the body with a channel extending therefrom embedded in the body such that no portion thereof is exposed externally of the body. The channel is formed to accommodate a portion of an instrument for causing adjustment of the body with avoidance of direct contact of the instrument with the tissue of the iris.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: Beaver-Visitec International (US), Inc.
    Inventors: Dana M. Cote, James J. Hughes
  • Patent number: 10307150
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a structure used in an ophthalmic surgical procedure. The device may be used in pupil expansion or stabilization of the iris. The device is made out of an elastic or semielastic material in a shape that is conducive to easy insertion and removal as well as being optimized for atraumatic pupil expansion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of Colorado, A Body Corporate
    Inventors: Malik Y. Kahook, Naresh Mandava
  • Patent number: 10130351
    Abstract: An eyelid speculum used to hold the eyelids of a patient's eye open during a medical procedure includes two retractors which are configured to engage the edge of a patient's eyelid and a central opening between the retractors which permits the medical practitioner to view the cornea of a patient's eye during a medical procedure. The eyelid speculum can be provided in a sterile medical kit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Shugarman Surgical Innovations, LLC
    Inventor: Richard G. Shugarman
  • Patent number: 10076366
    Abstract: A vertebral lamina supporting device is provided. The vertebral lamina supporting device includes a first supporting member, a second supporting member and at least one connecting member. The first supporting member includes a first supporting base, in which the first supporting base has a first abutting surface and a first surface opposite to the first abutting surface. The first abutting surface has at least two radially arranged first concave arc portions. The second supporting member is movable relative to the first supporting member. The second supporting member includes a second supporting base, in which the second supporting base has a second abutting surface and a second surface opposite to the second abutting surface. The second abutting surface has at least two radially arranged second concave arc portions. The connecting member is connected between the first supporting member and the second supporting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: ESSENCE MEDICAL DEVICES CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hung-Chen Wang, Hung-Ku Lin
  • Patent number: 9445802
    Abstract: An ophthalmic tool includes an ophthalmic speculum for holding a patient's eye open and for guiding a lens probe of an eye imaging device to be directly contacted with a cornea of the patient's eye. The ophthalmic speculum includes two eyelid distensible frames, a mechanism to spread the eyelid distensible frames apart, and a probe guiding frame including a plurality of probe guiders spacedly extended from the eyelid distensible frames. Each probe guider has a peak upwardly extended above the eyelid distensible frame that serves as a guiding point and forms a probe guiding cavity within the guiding points of the probe guiders. The lens probe is guided to be disposed within the probe guiding cavity via the guiding points before and after the lens probe is aligned and contacted with the cornea of the patient's eye in a proper upright orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2016
    Inventor: Raghu Murthy
  • Patent number: 9078995
    Abstract: Provided is an inflatable ring device useful for expanding the iris prior to ophthalmic surgery. The ring shape is either continuous or discontinuous and includes a groove around the outer periphery of the ring. When inflated, the groove engages the inner periphery of the iris and continued inflation thereby expands the iris to a desired size allowing increased access to the eye. The invention also provides a method of expanding the iris prior to performing ophthalmic surgery comprising placing an inflatable ring shaped device in the anterior chamber of the eye. Inflating the inflatable ring shaped device until a groove around the outer periphery of the ring shaped device engages the iris and continued inflation of the ring shaped device continues to expand the iris to a desired size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignee: XYGENT VISION CARE INSIGHT
    Inventors: Matthew Eakins, Christopher Eakins, Thomas Eakins
  • Patent number: 9011326
    Abstract: A surgical shield protects collateral soft tissue from damage during a trans-orbital surgical procedure in the head of a patient. The shield may be provided as an elongated flexible sheath having one or more thin flexible sidewalls that can conform to the tissue around or bearing on the shield. Other areas or sidewalls of the shield may be thicker to better resist perforation by surgical instruments, and/or to better maintain the access lumen of pathway to the surgical site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: SPIWay LLC
    Inventors: Blake Hannaford, Randall A. Bly
  • Publication number: 20150080665
    Abstract: In a first aspect of the subject invention, an iris expander is provided which includes a non-metallic, unitary, multi-segmented body which is expandable from a first state to a second state. The second state defines a larger footprint than the first state with the body being defined by a plurality of segments connected by living hinges. In a further aspect, an iris expander is provided which includes a multi-segmented body that is expandable from a first state to a larger-footprint second state. At least one aperture is formed in the body with a channel extending therefrom embedded in the body such that no portion thereof is exposed externally of the body. The channel is formed to accommodate a portion of an instrument for causing adjustment of the body with avoidance of direct contact of the instrument with the tissue of the iris.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventors: DANA M. COTE, JAMES J. HUGHES
  • Patent number: 8936550
    Abstract: An eyelids opening device with a drape comprising a flexible upper ring (1) applied in contact with the face while surrounding eyelids, a lower ring (2) inserted into a conjunctiva sac and applied in contact with the eyelids conjunctiva side, and an elastic sheet (3) of soft tubular thin film located to extend from the face side to the eyelids conjunctiva side and used to fix one end to the upper ring and to fix the other end to the lower ring by expanding, wherein the outside diameter at the smallest portion of the elastic sheet is substantially equal to or longer than the interpalpebral length (between upper and lower eyelids). Difference in size of conjunctiva sac or interpalpebral length of individuals is absorbed even by an appliance of one size, the eyelids can be opened by fitting the eyelids opening device to the eyelids or the face while burden on the eyeball is reduced and high safety is ensured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignees: Kurume University, Hakko Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toru Urano, Yukihiko Tamai
  • Patent number: 8915848
    Abstract: An ophthalmic instrument that includes an elongated handle member and a plurality of extensions configured to grasp an eyelid, wherein the extensions extend from a top surface of the handle member at an angle that is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the handle member, wherein a first extension is located on a first side of the top surface of the handle member and a second extension is located on a second side of the top surface of the handle member. A double-everting method that includes holding an eyelid to a second end of the handle member and rotating the instrument until the eyelid is placed in an everted position, positioning the plurality of extensions over a lower edge of the everted eyelid in order to grasp the everted eyelid with the plurality of extensions, and rotating the instrument until the grasped-everted eyelid is placed in a double-everted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Inventor: James P. Rixen
  • Patent number: 8900136
    Abstract: In a first aspect of the subject invention, an iris expander is provided which includes a non-metallic, unitary, multi-segmented body which is expandable from a first state to a second state. The second state defines a larger footprint than the first state with the body being defined by a plurality of segments connected by living hinges. In a further aspect, an iris expander is provided which includes a multi-segmented body that is expandable from a first state to a larger-footprint second state. At least one aperture is formed in the body with a channel extending therefrom embedded in the body such that no portion thereof is exposed externally of the body. The channel is formed to accommodate a portion of an instrument for causing adjustment of the body with avoidance of direct contact of the instrument with the tissue of the iris.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Beaver-Visitec International (US), Inc.
    Inventors: Dana M. Cote, James J. Hughes
  • Patent number: 8882650
    Abstract: An eyelid plaque and a method of using the plaque to treat eye cancers. The eyelid plaque is placed on the eyelid such that it defines an enclosure within which the radiation source resides. The enclosure defines a radiation shield that reduces radiation entering other organs and structures proximate the cancer being treated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Inventor: Paul T. Finger
  • Patent number: 8852091
    Abstract: A pupil expander is disclosed. The pupil expander comprises a support member sized to expand a pupil and a plurality of engaging portions. The plurality of engaging portions are coupled to and spaced about the support member. The engaging portions have a recess and are shaped and sized to receive an inner margin of an iris.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Alcon Research, Ltd.
    Inventors: Glenn R. Sussman, Steven T. Charles, Hsin S. Chin
  • Patent number: 8852092
    Abstract: The eyelid-engaging eyewear is comprised of an eyewear frame having open spaces in front of the eyes and through which eyelid engaging means attach to and pivot. The eyelid engaging means include armatures at distal ends, which engage eyelids of an end user and lift and hold up said eyelids in order to assist in installing and/or removing contact lenses from the eyes of the end user. The eyewear frame includes a centrally located suction cup that is directed inwardly and adheres to the forehead of the end user so as to secure the device to the end user. The eyewear is worn in a normal fashion, and upon rotation of the eyelid engaging means shall lift and hold up said eyelids of the end user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventors: Mardy Davis, Joyce Rivera
  • Publication number: 20140288380
    Abstract: An iris retractor assembly (10) including a plurality of iris grabbing hooks (12) disposed or formed at a distal end of one or more slender elements (14) which are pivoted about a pivot member (16), characterized by pincer interface members (18) located at proximal ends (20) of the slender elements (14), the pincer interface members (18) including posts that jut out of the proximal ends (20) perpendicular to a plane of the slender elements (14) and parallel to a pivot axis of the pivot member (16).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2012
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventors: Ehud Assia, Nir Lilach, Eliahu Eliachar
  • Publication number: 20140275751
    Abstract: Embodiments of a collagen-based ophthalmic interface for reducing patient eye movement are disclosed. In one embodiment, an ophthalmic interface serving as a partial barrier between a patient's eye and a surgical laser system includes an annular-shaped collagen-based shield configured to overlay the anterior surface of the eye. The shield is applied directly to the eye with an eyelid speculum, and reduces eye movement by adding friction to the surface of the eye. In another embodiment, a collagen-based material coats an attachment ring of a conical interface for coupling a patient's eye to a surgical laser system. The collagen-based coat glues the surface of the eye to the conical interface, reducing eye movement, and simultaneously eliminating the need for vacuum suction to hold the device in place. The gap in the middle of the annular-shaped collagen-coated attachment ring is filled with a liquid whose refractive index matches that of the cornea.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Robert G. Heitel, Teresita (Tessie) Smith, Mark Evan Steen
  • Publication number: 20140155700
    Abstract: In one aspect, a speculum is provided herein which includes a first arm having a first channel formed thereon adapted to the shape of an eyelid; a second arm having a second channel formed thereon adapted to the shape of an eyelid; a hinge unitarily formed with the first and second arms, the hinge permitting the first and second arms to selectively rotate about an axis rotation, the selective rotation causing the first and second channels to selectively move closer and farther apart; and, a position retaining arrangement. The position retaining arrangement includes a first element formed unitarily with the first arm, and a second element formed unitarily with the second arm. The first and second elements are configured to cooperatively retain the first and second arms in a selected rotational position. Advantageously, a unitary speculum may be formed which includes an adjustable position retaining arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: BEAVER-VISITEC INTERNATIONAL (US), INC.
    Inventors: FREDERICK M. TERRY, DANA COTE
  • Patent number: 8690747
    Abstract: An eyelid plaque and a method of using the plaque to treat eye cancers. The eyelid plaque is placed on the eyelid such that it defines an enclosure within which the radiation source resides. The enclosure defines a radiation shield that reduces radiation entering other organs and structures proximate the cancer being treated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventor: Paul T Finger
  • Patent number: 8672841
    Abstract: Presented is a device for use in a surgical procedure on an eye. The device includes an elongated member that includes a first elongated portion, a second elongated portion, and hook portion. The first elongated portion includes a proximal end and a distal end. The second elongated portion includes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the second elongated portion is coupled to the distal end of the first elongated portion. The second elongated portion extends from the first elongated portion at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the first elongated portion. The hook portion includes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the hook portion is coupled to the distal end of the second elongated member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: The Trustees of Columbia University in the City of New York
    Inventors: John C. Merriam, Lei Zheng
  • Patent number: 8652036
    Abstract: In one aspect, a speculum is provided herein which includes a first arm having a first channel formed thereon adapted to the shape of an eyelid; a second arm having a second channel formed thereon adapted to the shape of an eyelid; a hinge unitarily formed with the first and second arms, the hinge permitting the first and second arms to selectively rotate about an axis rotation, the selective rotation causing the first and second channels to selectively move closer and farther apart; and, a position retaining arrangement. The position retaining arrangement includes a first element formed unitarily with the first arm, and a second element formed unitarily with the second arm. The first and second elements are configured to cooperatively retain the first and second arms in a selected rotational position. Advantageously, with the subject invention, a unitary speculum may be formed which includes an adjustable position retaining arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Beaver-Visitec International (US), Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick M. Terry, Dana Cote
  • Patent number: 8647266
    Abstract: A speculum having first and second arms beginning at a proximal point and ending at a distal end and having a cup positioned at the distal end, an attachment portion positioned on the first arm and proximal to the cup, and a user manipulation element positioned within the attachment portion. In another embodiment the speculum has a generally U-shaped frame having a proximal point and pair of distal ends, a pair of cups attached to the distal ends, a pair of user manipulation elements attached to the frame and positioned between the cups and the proximal point so that the user manipulation elements can rotate relative to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: THB Precision, LLC
    Inventor: C. Joseph Beck
  • Publication number: 20140039270
    Abstract: Presented is a device for use in a surgical procedure on an eye. The device includes an elongated member that includes a first elongated portion, a second elongated portion, and hook portion. The first elongated portion includes a proximal end and a distal end. The second elongated portion includes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the second elongated portion is coupled to the distal end of the first elongated portion. The second elongated portion extends from the first elongated portion at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the first elongated portion. The hook portion includes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the hook portion is coupled to the distal end of the second elongated member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventors: John C. MERRIAM, Lei ZHENG
  • Publication number: 20130331656
    Abstract: A retractor (10) for use in a surgical intervention in the area of an eye socket is described. The retractor (10) comprises two planar retraction elements (26, 28), which are movable relative to each other between an insertion position with a first surface coverage and a retraction position with a second surface coverage AI, which is smaller than the first surface coverage. A spring element (20) provides pretensioning, which presses the retraction elements (26, 28) into the retraction position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: STRYKER LEIBINGER GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Christian Knoepfle, Juergen Rettich
  • Publication number: 20130324810
    Abstract: Cerebral and retinal perfusion monitoring devices, systems, and methods, are described. Such devices, systems, and methods can be used during surgical procedures, including cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass and spine surgery in prone position, to monitor a patient's brain perfusion in real time. In some embodiments, such monitoring allows trends in perfusion over time to be assessed. Such monitoring allows appropriate medical interventions to be undertaken in the event a state of hypoperfusion is detected, thereby reducing risks of brain hypoperfusion and stroke for patients undergoing heart surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass, as well as minimizing risk of retinal artery thrombosis with resulting blindness for patients undergoing prolonged procedures in the prone position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventor: Yuri GELLAND
  • Patent number: 8517936
    Abstract: A eyelid lifting device, comprising an eyelid contacting member, and a forehead contacting member, and an elastomeric connecting member. The eyelid contacting member and the forehead contacting member each having an adhesive layer with a cover coupled thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventor: Darryl Townsend
  • Publication number: 20130215383
    Abstract: An automated ophthalmic monitoring system for monitoring an eye of a subject is provided. The system includes an eyelid refractor and an ophthalmic imaging device having an imaging sensor or camera. An automated control unit is in communication with the eyelid retractor and the ophthalmic imaging device, wherein the automated control unit controls the operation of the eyelid retractor and the ophthalmic imaging device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: NEUROPTICS, INC.
    Inventor: NEUROPTICS, INC.
  • Patent number: 8512236
    Abstract: A system for securing a patient eye at a known position in an external coordinate system is disclosed. The system includes a head support for supporting the patient's head, an eye-contact device including a concave contact surface adapted to be placed against the front surface of a patient's eye, and a port in fluid communication with the contact surface, by which a vacuum can be applied to the device to remove air between the eye and the contact surface, to stabilize the position of the eye with respect to the contact device, and a biasing mechanism operatively connected to the contact device for biasing the contact device against the eye with a force sufficient to the hold the contact device against the eye, when the eye is stabilized with respect to the device by removal of air between the eye and the device's contact surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Oraya Therapeutics, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Gertner, Mark Arnoldussen, Matt Herron
  • Publication number: 20130204092
    Abstract: A surgical shield protects collateral soft tissue from damage during a trans-orbital surgical procedure in the head of a patient The shield may be provided as an elongated flexible sheath having one or more thin flexible sidewalls that can conform to the tissue around or bearing on the shield. Other areas or sidewalls of the shield may be thicker to better resist perforation by surgical instruments, and/or to better maintain the access lumen of pathway to the surgical site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: SPIWAY LLC
    Inventor: SPIWay LLC
  • Patent number: 8496583
    Abstract: A pupil dilation system including a generally circular deformable and discontinuous ring member is provided. The ring member expands circumferentially and applies an expansile force substantially uniformly around a pupillary margin of a pupil for dilating the pupil along an entirety of a circumference of the ring member. The ring member in an uncoiled configuration allows insertion of the ring member through a single incision in the eye and unfolds into a coiled configuration. A circumferential groove defined on an outer surface of the ring member allows continuous contact with the pupillary margin along the circumference of the ring member. One or more connector members are positioned on the circumference of the ring member for engaging with a surgical manipulating element that allows movement and manipulation of the ring member. The ring member is composed of a thermoplastic material or a bioabsorbable material that naturally dissolves within the eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Reynard
  • Patent number: 8464721
    Abstract: A retracting eye drape assembly is disclosed for use around a patient's eye to seclude and seal off the operative field during eye surgery. The drape assembly includes a retraction member connected to the drape and configured to engage the patient's eyelid, an extension member connected to the retraction member or to the drape and configured to substantially enclose the patient's eyelid, and a retraction flap configured to secure the patient's eyelid in a substantially retracted position. A method of applying an eye drape assembly is disclosed. After application of the drape to the patient's face, and while the patient's eyelid is closed, the patient's eyelid is engaged by a retraction member connected to the drape and retracted. While retracted, the patient's eyelid is substantially enclosed to seclude the eyelid and eyelashes from the operational area. The secluded eyelid and eyelashes are then secured in a retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventor: Andrew Peter Davis
  • Publication number: 20130144128
    Abstract: A comfortable insert comprises a retention structure sized for placement under the eyelids and along at least a portion of conjunctival sac of the upper and lower lids of the eye. The retention structure resists deflection when placed in the conjunctival sac of the eye and to guide the insert along the sac when the eye moves. The retention structure can be configured in many ways to provide the resistance to deflection and may comprise a hoop strength so as to urge the retention structure outward and inhibit movement of the retention structure toward the cornea. The insert may move rotationally with deflection along the conjunctival sac, and may comprise a retention structure having a cross sectional dimension sized to fit within folds of the conjunctiva. The insert may comprise a release mechanism and therapeutic agent to release therapeutic amounts of the therapeutic agent for an extended time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Inventors: Eugene de Juan, Jr., Yair Alster, Cary J. Reich, K. Angela MacFarlane, Janelle Chang, Stephen Boyd, David Sierra, Jose D. Alejandro, Douglas Sutton
  • Publication number: 20130131458
    Abstract: A length or strand of resilient material is formed into a continuous ring having multiple tissue-engaging portions for engaging and spreading eyeball tissue segments apart. The strand is formed with elongated straight sides joined by corner portions which are enlarged in directions transverse to the length dimension of each adjacent side. The corner portions constitute the tissue-engaging portions and have top and bottom sections and a connecting section that forms a gap for receiving the tissue. Each side of the ring extends from a bottom section of one corner to a top section of an adjacent corner. When the ring is deployed, the tissue is captured in the gaps at the corners of the ring and also is engaged along each side as that side transitions from a position situated below the tissue to a position situated above the issue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: MICROSURGICAL TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventors: Boris E. Malyugin, Vaclav Dusek
  • Patent number: 8439833
    Abstract: A ring for dilating a pupil during an ophthalmic procedure includes a series of spaced supports for engaging an iris perimeter. The supports are plate elements which form an open pocket directed outwardly for engaging the iris. The sides of the ring form a primary plane, and the plates are located in respective planes above and below the primary plane. The outer periphery of the top and bottom plates forms a lip feature which is the opening to the pocket which retains the iris.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Oasis Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: James Marlow Christensen, D. Michael Colvard
  • Patent number: 8439043
    Abstract: A retracting eye drape assembly is disclosed for use around a patient's eye to seclude and seal off the operative field during eye surgery. The drape assembly includes a retraction member connected to the drape and configured to engage the patient's eyelid, an extension member connected to the retraction member or to the drape and configured to substantially enclose the patient's eyelid, and a retraction flap configured to secure the patient's eyelid in a substantially retracted position. A method of applying an eye drape assembly is disclosed. After application of the drape to the patient's face, and while the patient's eyelid is closed, the patient's eyelid is engaged by a retraction member connected to the drape and retracted. While retracted, the patient's eyelid is substantially enclosed to seclude the eyelid and eyelashes from the operational area. The secluded eyelid and eyelashes are then secured in a retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Andrew Peter Davis
  • Publication number: 20130096386
    Abstract: A ring for dilating a pupil during an ophthalmic procedure includes a series of spaced supports for engaging an iris perimeter. The supports are plate elements which form an open pocket directed outwardly for engaging the iris. The sides of the ring form a primary plane, and the plates are located in respective planes above and below the primary plane. The outer periphery of the top and bottom plates forms a lip feature which is the opening to the pocket which retains the iris.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: OASIS Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: James Marlow Christensen, D. Michael Colvard
  • Patent number: 8414467
    Abstract: An eyelid plaque and a method of using the plaque to treat eye cancers. The eyelid plaque is placed on the eyelid such that it defines an enclosure within which the radiation source resides. The enclosure defines a radiation shield that reduces radiation entering other organs and structures proximate the cancer being treated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Paul T. Finger
  • Publication number: 20130072760
    Abstract: A speculum is provided herein which includes first and second arms, connected by a hinge, each having a channel formed thereon adapted to the shape of an eyelid. First and second elements are respectively located on the first and second arms configured to cooperatively retain the first and second arms in select rotational positions. A slot is defined in the second arm to partially separate first and second portions of the second arm with the first portion being displaceable away from the second portion. The second element is located on the first portion. Advantageously, with this arrangement, the first portion acts as a spring-loaded hinge which applies not only biasing force to the second element for retention, but also permits the second element to be separable from the first element. The subject invention provides a mechanical feature beyond the inherent memory of the material for operation of the speculum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: BEAVER-VISITEC INTERNATIONAL (US), INC.
    Inventors: Frederick M. Terry, Dana Cote
  • Publication number: 20120289786
    Abstract: A strand of resilient material has multiple tissue-engaging portions for engaging and spreading eyeball tissue segments apart. The strand is formed as a continuous ring with straight sides joined by corner portions. The corner portions constitute the tissue-engaging portions and have top and bottom sections and a connecting arc of the strand to form a gap receiving for receiving the tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: MICROSURGICAL TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventor: Vaclav Dusek
  • Patent number: 8267970
    Abstract: Various devices and methods are provided for spinal augmentation. In particular, the device can includes a connector element having a superior portion and an inferior portion that is adapted to support adjacent superior and inferior vertebrae and a first superior seating member and a second superior seating member associated with the connector element. The first seating member can be adapted to receive a portion of a lamina of the superior vertebra and the second seating member can be adapted to receive a portion of the lamina of the inferior vertebra. The device can have a variety of configurations, including the connector element and the first and second seating members being unitary and the first and second seating members being separately secured to the connector element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: DePuy Spine, Inc.
    Inventors: Hassan A. Serhan, Michael A. Slivka
  • Publication number: 20120226107
    Abstract: An ocular fixation device includes a body configured to be placed on an eye. The ocular fixation device also includes multiple twist picks configured to be turned to secure the body to the eye and to release the body from the eye. The body includes connection points on which a surgical tool is mountable on the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: REFOCUS OCULAR, INC.
    Inventors: Jack C. Griffis, III, David G. Ozinga
  • Patent number: 8257256
    Abstract: A retractor for ophthalmic procedures and other uses is disclosed. The retractor is a U-shaped body formed by two arms and a live hinge, with a retracting means at the distal end of each arm. The retracting means includes a tongue blade for insertion under an eyelid, a deflector for retracting the eyelid, and two ball-tipped posts that extend away from the tongue blade and prevent eyelid or eyelashes from obscuring the window opened up by the retractor. The hinge is also an adjustable biasing spring that biases the distal ends of the arms to an open position. Anti-torque arches are provided on the outer wall of the body. A brace may be provided on the retractor, to fix the device to a desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: Arthur M. M. Krolman