Abstract: A lacrimal cannula for insertion, dilation, probing, and irrigation of the lacrimal drainage system, starting with a small diameter distal end to facilitate entry into the lacrimal puncta, tapering in size to a larger diameter serving to seal the puncta as fluid is forced through the device.

Abstract: There is provided a new and useful device to facilitate the dispensing of eye drops from a conventional translucent or transparent eye dropper bottle which has a drop-dispensing tip at one end, a bottom at the other end and resilient, squeezable sides between those ends to dispel the bottle contents. The device combines a light source and a holder to hold the eye dropper bottle in place relative to the light source so that light from the source will pass through the bottom of the bottle, when in use, to illuminate a droplet of the contents of the bottle being dispensed from the tip.

Abstract: A multi-function pick-manipulator device that provides the functions of a vitreoretinal pick, fiberoptic illumination, and irrigation/aspiration. The manipulator may also function as a bipolar diathermy device. To provide a compact, multi-function device, the aspiration tube projects distally beyond the distal end of the fiber optic containing support tube of the manipulator. The projecting aspiration tube is bent and shaped at its tip to define a pick-like structure that extends in a direction generally transverse to the axis of the fiber optics. An aspiration opening is defined through the wall of the aspiration tube proximal to the pick-like tip.

Abstract: A medical device for eye surgery, particularly retinal surgery, combines a flow of infusing fluid and optical fiber illumination. The device uses a single strand of plastic optical fiber which extends through bores in a juncture device, tube and needle cannula with sufficient clearance to permit the flow of the infusing fluid.

Abstract: An implant for use in the treatment of glaucoma is disclosed wherein the implant comprises an elastomeric plate having a non-valved elastomeric drainage tube attached thereto. The plate is curved so as to conform to the spherical anatomy of the eyeball. An annular sloped wall extends from the plate and surrounds the opening of the drainage tube into the plate. The plate is inserted beneath Tenon's capsule and sutured to the sclera utilizing temporary and non-dissolving permanent sutures. The annular wall provides a temporary sealing surface against the sclera. The drainage tube is tunnelled through the sclera and cornea and inserted into the anterior chamber, thus providing fluid communication between the anterior chamber and the elastomeric plate. The annular wall around the tube forms a temporary seal which restricts the drainage of aqueous fluid until formation of the bleb is completed. After bleb formation occurs, the temporary sutures around the wall are removed or dissolve.

Abstract: A device for delivering an anesthetic to the eye, comprising a thin, porous, substantially planar annular body. The inner diameter of the device is slightly greater than the diameter of the limbus or corneal-scleral junction of the eye, and the outer diameter, slightly smaller than the arcuate distance between the upper and lower conjunctival sacs. The device is made of a flexible material such as methylcellulose-based filter paper, thus, it is able to flex to conform to the shape of the eyeball. The device is positioned in the eye with the inner edge circumscribing the limbus and the outer edge extending into the conjunctival sacs. A liquid such as a topical anesthetic, antibiotic, and so forth is added to the body by means of an eye dropper or other suitable means. The liquid spreads rapidly and uniformly throughout the body and diffuses into the eye. If desired, a plurality of equally-spaced radial slits may be formed in the body to enable it to conform to the shape of the eye.

Abstract: A device for pinpoint application of micro-quantities of a pharmacologically suitable composition to the outer hard coat of the eye, comprises a micro-container with a fixation element. The micro-container comprises a bore whose aperture is adapted to contact the eye surface, and the fixation element is adapted for reversibly adhering to the eye surface.

Abstract: An implantable device used in treating glaucoma includes a movable plate shaped and sized to fit in a single quadrant of an eye to provide maximum surface area. A drainage tube is attached to the plate and has a distal end for insertion into the anterior chamber of the eye to drain fluid. A valve is disposed in the tube to control the fluid pressure within the eye and prevent hypotony. The plate is made of soft surgical grade polymeric material to prevent extrusion from the body.

Abstract: An applicator is disclosed for use in anesthetizing the eye prior to surgery, such as anterior segment surgery. The applicator includes an annular wall which defines an opening sufficiently large to expose the cornea of an eye. The applicator is made from a porous, absorbent material capable of absorbing a topical anesthetic. A method for using such an applicator is also provided. The method includes the steps of positioning the applicator upon the eye such that the wall substantially conforms to the surface configuration of the eye while substantially entirely exposing the cornea portion of the eye through the opening.

Abstract: An apparatus for reducing pressure in an anterior chamber of an eye. The apparatus includes an anterior portion configured for implantation through a scleral tunnel such that a leading edge thereof is within the anterior chamber. A plurality of channels are defined through the anterior portion, the channels being open to an external environment of the anterior portion to provide fluid communication between the anterior chamber of the eye and the channels. The apparatus further includes a body portion extending from the anterior portion distal the leading edge of the anterior portion of the apparatus. The body portion is configured for implantation between conjunctival and scleral tissues of the eye. The body portion defines a channel therethrough, the channel being in fluid communication with one or more of the plurality of channels formed through the anterior portion of the apparatus. Occlusion means are disposed in one or more of the channels formed through the anterior portion of the apparatus.

Abstract: A punctum plug used to temporarily close the punctal openings of the eye. The plug has a cap, a shaft, and a hollow bulb portion. The cap and shaft have an internal bore therein. A tool may be inserted into the bore so that the bulb portion is elongated and stretched, allowing the plug to be inserted into a punctal opening and into its lacrimal duct. The tool is then withdrawn from the plug, allowing the bulb portion to return to its original configuration, which effectively anchors the plug in the duct. An elongated shaft is used for another embodiment of the plug, which allows the plug to be inserted deeper into a duct. In yet another embodiment, a coiled body portion is used in place of the bulb portion. The insertion tool is used to stretch or uncoil the coiled body portion so that the plug may be inserted into a lacrimal duct. Withdrawal of the insertion tool allows the body portion to return to its original coiled configuration, anchoring the plug in the duct.

Abstract: A punctum plug and probe for lacrimal pathology includes the plug having a flange, a neck and a bulb portion, wherein the flange is inclined at an angle of approximately 130.degree. with respect to the symmetry axis, the foot portion being radially flexible from its resting position towards the symmetry axis, and the plug constitutes a head for the probe.

Abstract: Disclosed is a medical valve comprising a pair of plates holding in tension a membrane folded over to form a chamber with an elongated, slit-like opening along adjoining edges. The plates include interlocking members which interlock the plates together. An inlet tube in communication with the chamber extends outwardly from the plates. The preferred configuration of the chamber is trapezoidal. Also disclosed is a surgical instrument that is a needle-like member having an elongated slot in the wall of this member. A method of using this instrument to implant a tubular element in the body of a patient is also disclosed.

Abstract: A cannula for applying anesthetic to the eye is a longitudinal housing, having a rounded upper surface that terminates in a blunt closed distal end and a flat lower surface that has an exit port at its distal end and an increased transverse dimension at a proximal end to seal the tissue opening through which the cannula is inserted into the eye.

Abstract: A cartridge for actuating a piston-like or accordion-like dispenser-vial for applying medicament to an eye. The cartridge includes a housing for holding the dispenser-vial and a telescoping cylinder for compressing the dispenser-vial in the longitudinal direction to actuate the vial. The cartridge includes a locking mechanism for locking the telescoping cylinder to restrict its movement and a lever mechanism for releasing the cylinder from the locked position so that a drop is released from the dispenser. The housing includes a finger for engaging the lower eyelid and exposing the conjunctival cul-de-sac.

Abstract: A manifold having an array of apertures is secured to one arm of a lid speculum for directing a plurality of sterile saline solution irrigating streams over the cornea during eye surgery. A pressurized fluid source is coupled to the manifold for supplying the fluid. The pressurized source is an IV bottle coupled to a foot operated piston under control of the surgeon during surgery. In a second embodiment, a timer operates an electrical valve for coupling a pressurized source of eye irrigating fluid to the manifold.

Abstract: A disinfectant or preservative composition particularly adapted for use in ophthalmic preparations such as contact lens disinfecting, cleaning, cushioning, wetting, soaking and reconditioning solutions and additionally in topical medications and tear substitutes, which uses a hydrophilic polymeric antimicrobial agent, namely poly[oxyethylene(dimethylimino) (ethylene dimethylimino)ethylene dichloride] with additional agents including EDTA and alkali salts thereof and a boric acid/borate buffer system.

Abstract: A pre-assembled, preferably single piece, device and related surgical procedure, to be surgically implanted in an eye for treating refractory glaucoma by draining aqueous out of the anterior chamber using a tubular shunt depended from a flexible band having a main reservoir and at least two wings extended in directions opposite one another away from said main reservoir, said wings each having a neck portion defining a depression in said band and an anchoring head each having a tip end and a lock end, with each said anchoring head gradually increasing in thickness to form a taper from each said tip end to each respective lock end to guide each said anchoring head under and past the extraocular muscles of the eye, which muscles then rest in said depressions locked against each said lock end , said device being further defined by a plurality of circumferential markings regularly placed along said tubular shunt for placement within the anterior chamber according to the size eye of each respective patient, and a l

Abstract: A spectacle-like device mounts a system of pump elements that can project droplets of liquid onto a wearer's eye. A reservoir of the liquid and an electrical pump-controlling circuit are mounted on the spectacle frame for operation with the pump elements.

Abstract: This invention is a device for microvascular injection and a method for treating glaucoma using the device. The device comprises a reservoir attached to a blunted needle connected to a flexible tapered tubing, at the end of which is positioned a microneedle or micropipette for inserting into small blood vessels. The invention also provides a method for treating glaucoma and other diseases wherein microinjection of disease-ameliorating drugs into small blood vessels and their capillary beds would be therapeutically effective.

Abstract: An apparatus for reducing intraocular pressure includes first and second resilient flexible tubes connected together to permit fluid flow therethrough. The first tube has one end inserted within the anterior chamber of the eye to drain fluid therefrom and extends through an aperture in the conjunctival layer. The second tube is connected to the external end of the first tube, and has an operable valve at the free end thereof which opens when subjected to a predetermined fluid pressure, to thereby reduce the intraocular pressure of the eye. A filter is mounted within the second tube to prevent bacteria from entering the anterior chamber of the eye, while permitting replacement of the filter as desired. A method for reducing intraocular pressure includes the step of inserting a first end of the first described tube into the anterior chamber of the eye, and positioning the second end external to the ocular surface of the eye.

Abstract: There is provided a lacrimal fluid control device for blocking the flow of lacrimal fluid away from the surface of a wearer's eye through a punctal opening and into an associated caniculus. The lacrimal fluid control device includes a tip portion comprising a generally inverted truncated cone and a head portion comprising a generally enlarged dome. The tip is operable to facilitate placement of the lacrimal fluid control device at least partially through a wearer's punctal opening and the enlarged dome or head portion prevents drift of the lacrimal fluid control device completely through the punctal opening and into a generally vertical portion of an associated canaliculus.

Abstract: A technique and device for relieving intraocular pressure with a reduced risk of inflammation that may be caused by retrograde flow back into the eye. A unidirectional drainage device is implanted which allows fluid to flow away from the eye with a minimal pressure gradient (5 mm Hg. or less), and includes means to prevent retrograde flow. When implanted, the drainage passageway is initially restricted by a flow restrictor. After fibrosis has occurred to prevent excessive drainage that might cause hypotony, the flow restrictor is severed to allow the free flow of fluid away from the eye, with inflammatory debris being prevented from reentering the eye. In one embodiment, the flow restrictor includes barbs which hold it to the device after it has been severed, thereby preventing the flow restrictor from floating freely within the eye after it has been cut.

Abstract: An apparatus for simultaneously delivering more than one kind of medicament to an eye, without premixing of the medicaments within the apparatus. The apparatus includes a special nozzle assembly which precludes reentry of medicament expelled from the nozzle to prevent commingling of the medicaments. In this way, dosages of two or more medicaments may be simultaneously delivered to an eye without the need for creating a stable premixture of the medicaments.

Abstract: A portable eyeflushing device is disclosed having bladders which store an eyeflushing fluid. The bladders are attached to a mask that may be easily placed on a user so as to cover or enclose the user's eyes. A strap on the mask attaches the device to the user's head such that it is retained in position without the necessity of holding it in position. The bladders have tear strips on a portion extending internally of the mask which are connected to pull cords extending to the exterior of the mask and which may be manually grasped and pulled to tear the strips away from the bladder. This opens the bladders and allows the eyeflushing fluid to be dispensed from the bladders into the interior of the mask and into the user's eye. A nose piece on the interior of the mask prevents eyeflushing fluid on one side of the mask from passing to the other side of the mask and thereby prevents contamination of the user's other eye. A pair of digit covers extend outwardly from the sides of the mask.

Abstract: An ophthalmic drug dispensing system in the form of a hand held device constructed of a soft pliable material with a bleb or bulbous area in its forward portion. Contained within the bleb is a fluid chamber which is connected to an orifice located in one end of the dispensing system.In use, the chamber is filed with a drug or medication and the device is inserted between the sclera of the eye and the upper eyelid with the bleb contacting the inner surface of the eyelid. Due to the pressure of the inner side of the upper eyelid upon the bleb, the drug or medication is forced from the chamber and out through the orifice by way of the channel.

Abstract: A method for performing a vitrectomy on an eye is disclosed for removing the vitreous humor from the eye. The method comprises the first step of introducing plasmin into the vitreous humor in order to induce a posterior vitreous detachment. Thereafter, the vitreous is removed by conventional methods and replaced with a sterile saline solution.

Abstract: A punctum plug for blocking lacrimal fluid flow through a punctum and an associated canaliculus composed of a hydrogel material and a hydrophobic coating which covers the exterior surface of the hydrogel material. The hydrophobic coating averts adsorption of proteinaceous materials onto the hydrogel. The punctum plug has a configuration which includes a generally cylindrical body member, an arcuate head at a first end of the body member, and a placement and retaining member at a second, peripheral end of the body member. An insertion port is located at the first end of the cylindrical body member for receiving a dilator/inserter tool. A hydrating port is fashioned at the peripheral end of the plug and partially extends through the placement and retaining member. The hydrating port is not coated with the hydrophobic material so that fluid in the canaliculus, or canalicular fluid, or preocular tear film may enter the interior portion of the plug and permit the hydrogel to expand to a desired configuration.

Abstract: The invention relates to an uncrosslinked hydrogel, its process of preparon as well as its uses as an article for medical and/or surgical purposes such as tubes, filaments, films, joints, implants and the like, especially in ophthalmology. The uncrosslinked hydrogel has a relatively high water content and is constituted from a liquid starting composition which comprises 2 to 50% of a copolymer of acrylonitrile and an olefinically unsaturated comonomer bearing aninic groups, possible salified, the molar ratio arcylonitrile-comonomer being comprised between 90:10 and 100:0, a suitable solvent and a suitable non-solvent of said copolymer. The ratio solvent/non-solvent is comprised between 500:1 and 0.5:1 by weight, said hydrogel having a microporous structure, an ionic capacity comprised between 0 and 500 mEq/kg of gel, a hydric content compressed between 50 and 98% and having an aptitude for permanent deformation under stress, even at a temperature below 40.degree. C.

Abstract: A method for conducting ocular surgery using different viscoelastic agents is disclosed.

Abstract: A cartridge for actuating a piston-like or accordion-like dispenser-vial for applying medicament to an eye. The cartridge includes a housing for holding the dispenser-vial and a telescoping cylinder for compressing the dispenser-vial in the longitudinal direction to actuate the vial. The cartridge includes a locking mechanism for locking the telescoping cylinder to restrict its movement and a trigger mechanism for releasing the cylinder from the locked position so that a drop is released from the dispenser. The housing includes a finger for engaging the lower eyelid and exposing the conjunctival cul de sac.

Abstract: Phacoemulsification needles having distal ends with focusing surfaces for concentrating ultrasonic generated acoustic waves. The focusing surfaces can be beveled and/or provided with continuous curved or faceted surfaces.

Abstract: A dispenser for liquids, e.g., ophthalmic liquids, is provided with a movable top that pivots open to expose a recessed dispensing tip and pivots closed to cover and seal the dispensing tip.

Abstract: Therapeutic compositions are administered to the ocular tissues by positioning a balloon catheter having an illuminating fiberoptic stylette therein in the retrobulbar or parabulbar space of a patient. After the catheter is properly positioned, the composition is sequentially injected at predetermined intervals over a period of time. A variety of compositions can be administered including corticosteroids, antibiotics, macular degeneration alleviating compositions and inflammation alleviating compositions. Such administration of the therapeutic composition sustains appropriate levels of the composition in the ocular tissues without inducing toxic effects in unaffected tissues.

Abstract: An eye-bathing device comprises an eye-cup (14) adapted to receive the eye being bathed, and a pump (11) for delivering an eye bathing solution to the eye-cup through a spray nozzle (13), the eye-cup (14) having an inlet opening (35) aligned with the spray nozzle. The pump (11) is hand-operated, and is located within a housing (10) supporting the eye-cup (14).

Abstract: A method of sealing the corneal incision resulting from cataract surgery is presented. The edges of the incision are maneuvered under a keratoscope until an undistorted corneal surface is obtained. Biological glue is then applied to the maneuvered incision. The seal provides for greatly reduced postoperative astigmatism.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating patients suffering from glaucoma. A hollow needle is inserted into the eye and advanced across the anterior chamber until the tip punctures the opposite anterior chamber angle wall, exiting the eye under the conjunctiva. The excess pressure is acutely relieved by seepage of the aqueous fluid into the subconjunctival space. A stainless steel helix is ejected from the hollow needle and lodged in the puncture wound of the anterior chamber wall. Sealing the anterior chamber angle puncture wound by normal healing processes is thus prevented and excess pressure is relieved chronically by aqueous fluid seepage through the wound to the subconjunctival space. In a variation of the technique the needle is not passed through the anterior chamber, but the helix is delivered ab externo into the chamber angle.

Abstract: An implant for use in the treatment of glaucoma is disclosed wherein the implant comprises an elastomeric plate having a non-valved elastomeric drainage tube attached thereto. The plate is elliptical in shape and curved so as to conform to the curvature of the eye. The plate is inserted into the eye in an incision made in the Tenon's capsule and sutured to the sclera. The drainage tube is tunnelled through the Tenon's capsule and cornea and inserted into the anterior chamber, thus providing patent fluid communication between the anterior chamber and the elastomeric plate. The flexible structure of the plate allows the plate to be easily inserted, thus reducing the surgical procedure length. In addition, the pliable material minimizes th risk of damage and trauma to surrounding tissues in the insertion process.

Abstract: A dispenser for liquids, e.g., ophthalmic liquids, is provided with a movable top that rotates to uncover an aperture and to expose a recessed dispensing tip.

Abstract: A technique and device for relieving intraocular pressure within the eye with a reduced risk of inflammation that may be caused by the retrograde flow of fluid and inflammatory debris back into the eye after a glaucoma surgical procedure has been performed. A unidirectional drainage device is implanted to drain fluids away from the eye. The device allows fluid flow away from the eye with a minimal pressure gradient (5 mm Hg. or less), and includes means to prevent retrograde flow. At the time of implantation, the drainage passageway is initially restricted or closed by a flow restrictor at a point downstream from the minimal pressure gradient unidirectional valve. Between the unidirectional valve and flow restrictor is a drainage trap in which debris is receivable without restricting the operativeness of the unidirectional valve.

Abstract: An irrigation solution collection device is provided including an outer sheath formed of substantially water impervious material and an inner collecting and draining section formed of capillary matting material. The device includes proximal and distal ends with the collecting and draining section of capillary matting material being exposed at the proximal end for collecting irrigation solution from a selected site. This irrigation solution is then drawn through the sheath to the distal end for delivery to a collection receptacle. Preferably, the proximal end of the device is substantially U-shaped so as to surround the site from which irrigation solution is to be collected. Additionally, the flow rate of the capillary matting material through the sheath is increased by forming the collecting and draining section from a plurality of strips of capillary matting material that flare outwardly from substantially adjacent the proximal end to the distal end.

Abstract: A canalicular implant adapted to be inserted into the punctum of an eye and which is adapted to be transported into the horizontal portion of the canaliculus to occlude the same is shown. The implant comprises an elongated member having a medial end, an opposed lateral end and a central member having a predetermined dimensional cross-section extending therebetween. The medial end has a tapered section which slopes and decreases in cross-section as it extends towards the medial end. The tapered section terminates in a medial tip having a dimension which enables the medial tip to enter and pass through the punctum. The lateral end has a collapsible flared section which increases in cross section as it approaches the lateral end and which terminates in an outer edge having dimension which is greater than the predetermined dimensional cross section of the central member. The collapsible flared section has a fully extended position and a collapsed position.

Abstract: An ocular treatment apparatus for applying medicament into an eye has a vial defining a vial cavity for holding medicament. A nozzle is attached over an opening in the vial and is in fluid communication with the vial cavity for releasing drops of medicament. A piston member is suspended within the vial and slideably engaged within the vial cavity for displacing a substantially predetermined volume of medicament through the nozzle for release into the eye.

Abstract: A method for treating an external eye condition due to a deficiency of tears as shown. The method includes the steps of testing the eye to determine if a tear deficiency exists.

Abstract: A multifocal ophthalmic lens includes first and second lens members. Each lens member has a smooth outer surface and an inner surface with an edge about its perimeter. A multifocal diffractive zone plate on at least one of the lens members is characterized by an index of refraction. The lens members are joined at the edges by ultrasonic welding to form a cavity adjacent the diffractive zone plate. The cavity is filled with a liquid medication having an index of refraction which is different than the index of refraction of the diffractive zone plate. A hole through one of the lens members functions as a fluid transport mechanism to permit transfer of the medication between the cavity and eye.

Abstract: The present invention relates to 2-decarboxyl-2-alkoxyalkyl prostaglandins that are potent ocular hypotentives, and are particularly suitable for the management of glaucoma. Said 2-decarboxyl-2-alkoxyalkyl prostaglandins are compounds of the formula (I) ##STR1## wherein the wavy line attachments indicate either alpha (.alpha.) or beta (.beta.) configuration; hatched lines indicate .alpha. configuration; solid triangles are used to indicate .beta. configuration; the dashed bonds represent a single bond or a double bond which can be in the cis or trans configuration; R is an aliphatic hydrocarbon group having from 1 to about 6 carbon atoms; one of R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 is=O, --OH or a --O(CO)R.sub.6 group, and the other one is --OH or a --O(CO)R.sub.6 group or R.sub.1 is=O and R.sub.2 is H, R.sub.3 is --OH or --O(CO)R.sub.6 ; R.sub.4 and R.sub.5 independently are hydrogen or an aliphatic hydrocarbon group having from 1 to about 6 carbon atoms; R.sub.

Abstract: A suction ring apparatus for use in surgical eye operations comprising a right-angle section annular outer ring which retains an annular ring member of substantially triangular cross-section including an outer cylindrical wall surface, an annular end face surface and an eye-containing surface; the annular inner member has formed on its outer cylindrical wall surfaces and on the annular end face perpendicular thereto consecutive angularly spaced-apart discrete segments which engage an inner cylindrical wall surface and an annular inside end face surface of the outer ring and bound between the same and the inner member channels communicating with one another and with a vacuum bore associated with the outer ring which is connectable to a vacuum source; an edge of the outer ring defining a central aperture of the outer ring is dimensioned so that its diameter corresponds to the diameter of the corneal limbus and rests thereupon in operation.

Abstract: A series of implants for intraocular and/or intraorbital use are provided which permit the controlled release of pharmacological agents. The implants are substantial C-shaped rings and are insertable through incisions made in the eye wall or are sutured around the globe of the eye. The C-shaped rings may be formed from the biodegradable polymers so as to release a drug as the polymer biodegrades or the implant may be in the form of a hollow flexible polymeric cocoon with the drug disposed therewithin for slow release by osmosis.

Abstract: A method of permanently surgically treating glaucoma is disclosed together with an apparatus for effecting such treatment. In accordance with the method, an implant is disposed at a filtration site through the sclera the implant including a through going aperture leading from the anterior chamber to a bleb formed in the conjunctiva. The implant is retained in the sclera by radially compressing the same during the insertion procedure and thereafter releasing the radial compressive forces whereby the implant expands and is prevented from dislocation. An apparatus for effecting the implant is likewise disclosed, the apparatus including a cannula having a bore constraining the insert, a plunger for shifting the insert through an angularly offset opening in the cannula and a retainer filament engaged in the passage in the insert for controlling the precise location of the insert during the implant and for releasing the insert from connection to the cannula when the precise position is achieved.