Means For Treating Eye Or Surface Of Ocular Cavity Patents (Class 604/294)
  • Publication number: 20110130729
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating gland dysfunction caused by gland obstruction in order to restore the natural flow of secretion from the gland comprises the application of a combination of energy, suction, vibration, heat, aspiration, chemical agents and pharmacological agents to loosen and thereafter remove the obstructive material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: TEARSCIENCE, INC.
    Inventors: Donald R. Korb, Timothy R. Willis, Benjamin T. Gravely, Stephen M. Grenon
  • Publication number: 20110106024
    Abstract: A container includes a nozzle having rubber elasticity in a constriction part, and a lever for nipping the nozzle indirectly. The nozzle has a storage part, a base, and a valve. The storage part is provided in the constriction part, and is intercepted with the main body by contacting inner walls at the communicating part when the nozzle is nipped and flattened by the lever. The valve is opened when the internal pressure of the storage part exceeds predetermined pressure while operated state and spouts liquid in the storage part. The constriction part expands by being nipped with the lever until the internal pressure of the storage part reaches to predetermined pressure. Liquid in the storage part is jetted since the constriction part shrinks by the rubber elasticity when the valve is released.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2011
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventor: Ryu Katayama
  • Patent number: 7922702
    Abstract: Featured are devices for delivering a treatment medium to an eye as well as methods related thereto. Such devices and methods allow a desired amount of the treatment medium to be delivered in a controllable manner over a predetermined time period. In particular embodiments, the delivery device is configured and arranged so the treatment medium is eluted from one portion of the delivery device and so that another portion thereof is removably secured within a natural opening or orifice in or proximal to the eye. In specific embodiments the another portion is configured and arranged so as to be removably secured within the natural opening comprising at least one punctum of an eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: QLT Inc.
    Inventor: Eliot Lazar
  • Publication number: 20110077624
    Abstract: The accommodative properties of the natural lens of an eye, which tend to degrade with age, can be enhanced, restored, or otherwise improved using the in situ treatment techniques and methodologies provided here. One exemplary method of enhancing accommodative properties of the natural lens of an eye involves an initial step of specifying treatment areas of the natural lens. These treatment areas correspond to regions of the capsular bag or regions of the crystalline lens. The method continues by increasing stiffness of the treatment areas while all or portions of the natural lens remains in situ. This results in stiffened areas of the natural lens that enhance transfer of ciliary muscle forces to a center region of the crystalline lens.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: Abbott Medical Optics Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel G Brady, Rakhi Jain
  • Patent number: 7887521
    Abstract: An ophthalmic injection system has a tip segment attachable to and removable from a limited reuse assembly. The tip segment has a dispensing chamber housing, a plunger, a needle, a temperature control device, a thermal sensor, and a first housing at least partially enclosing the dispensing chamber housing, the temperature control device and the plunger. The limited reuse assembly has an actuator with a shaft, a power source for providing power to the actuator, a controller for controlling the actuator, a mechanical linkage interface, and a second housing at least partially enclosing the power source, the controller, and the actuator. The mechanical linkage interface is coupled to the actuator shaft and has a mating surface on one end. The substance is injected after the temperature of the substance is altered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Alcon Research, Ltd.
    Inventors: Bruno Dacquay, Cesario Dos Santos, James Foster, Casey Lind, Raffi Pinedjian, Robert Sanchez
  • Publication number: 20110022010
    Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided a method of treating meibomian gland dysfunction in a mammal wherein an occlusion blocks at least a portion of the flow of naturally occurring secretion out of a gland channel orifice. The invention comprises selecting a device capable of delivering a jet of heated medium. The device is positioned such that when the jet is it is applied to the exterior surface of the eyelid, proximate to the gland channel orifice, a jet of heated medium is applied to the exterior surface of the eyelid proximate to the gland channel orifice at a pressure of from about 2 psi to about 30 psi. Application of the jet of heated medium is maintained for sufficient time to loosen, break up, fracture, soften or liquefy at least a portion of the occlusion such that at least a portion of the occlusion is removed. In an exemplary embodiment, the medium is water heated to a temperature of between about 42° C. and about 46° C.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: TearScience, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen M. Grenon, Lyle Paul, Steven Roe, Donald R. Korb
  • Patent number: 7867205
    Abstract: Surgical methods and related medical devices for treating ocular disorders are disclosed. Some methods relate to delivering an implant within an eye, and involve providing an elongate guide device, such as, a flexible guide member or a guide wire. A distal end of the guide device can be advanced into an anterior chamber of an eye, or through at least a portion of a site of resistance along a physiologic outflow pathway of the eye, or from an anterior chamber of the eye to a location proximate a physiologic outflow pathway of the eye. The implant is advanced along the guide device toward the guide device distal end, and is positioned to conduct aqueous humor between the anterior chamber and the physiologic outflow pathway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Glaukos Corporation
    Inventors: Olav B. Bergheim, Morteza (Mory) Gharib
  • Publication number: 20110004170
    Abstract: An apparatus for preparing a pharmaceutical for transient application includes a tray having a sealed compartment, a vial of an ophthalmic formulation of mitomycin-C, a diluent carrier containing sterilized water, and a syringe that are all contained together in a single package. The component parts of the apparatus are used together to reconstitute the contents of the vial with the water in the diluent carrier, and then draw the reconstituted drug into the sealed compartment of the tray by a suction force produced by the syringe. In the tray compartment, the reconstituted drug is absorbed in an absorbent pad. The tray is opened to remove the pad and the absorbed drug from the tray compartment for use of the pad in transient application of the drug.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Applicant: MOBIUS THERAPEUTICS, LLC
    Inventor: Edward J. Timm
  • Publication number: 20100331796
    Abstract: An ocular device for insertion into an eye is provided and includes a body having an anterior surface and a posterior surface for placement on one of superior sclera and inferior sclera of the eye. The posterior surface is defined by a base curve that is substantially identical to a radius of curvature of the one of the superior sclera and inferior sclera of the eye. In one embodiment, the ocular device serves as an ocular drug delivery device and contains an active pharmaceutical agent, a lubricant, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: VISTA SCIENTIFIC LLC
    Inventors: Charles D. Leahy, Denis Labombard
  • Patent number: 7857795
    Abstract: An eyewash system for dispensing an eyewash fluid is disclosed. The eyewash system comprises a dispensing assembly having an inlet portion, an outlet portion, and a valve configurable between an open position and a closed position. The eyewash system also comprises a first tank in communication with the inlet portion of the dispensing assembly, and a second tank in communication with the inlet portion of the dispensing assembly. The outlet portion is configured to dispense eyewash fluid from both the first tank and the second tank when the valve is configured in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Bradley Fixtures Corporation
    Inventors: Timothy E. Perrin, Gerard Val Madritsch, Theodore E. Dhein, Jeffery S. Jaworski
  • Patent number: 7833205
    Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided a method of treating meibomian gland dysfunction in a mammal wherein an occlusion blocks at least a portion of the flow of naturally occurring secretion out of a gland channel orifice. The invention comprises selecting a device capable of delivering a jet of heated medium. The device is positioned such that when the jet is it is applied to the exterior surface of the eyelid, proximate to the gland channel orifice, a jet of heated medium is applied to the exterior surface of the eyelid proximate to the gland channel orifice at a pressure of from about 2 psi to about 30 psi. Application of the jet of heated medium is maintained for sufficient time to loosen, break up, fracture, soften or liquefy at least a portion of the occlusion such that at least a portion of the occlusion is removed. In an exemplary embodiment, the medium is water heated to a temperature of between about 42° C. and about 46° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: TearScience, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen M. Grenon, Lyle Paul, Steven Roe, Donald R. Korb
  • Publication number: 20100286632
    Abstract: In various embodiments, an ophthalmic injection device may include a dispensing chamber to hold a substance (e.g., a drug) to be injected into an eye, a thermal feedback layer with at least one thermal sensor, and a temperature control layer to apply or remove heat from the dispensing chamber. In some embodiments, the thermal feedback layer and the temperature control layer may be coupled to each other and/or coupled to the dispensing chamber. In some embodiments, at least one of the thermal sensors may be secured between the temperature control layer and the dispensing chamber using a thermal adhesive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2010
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: Cesario Pereira Dos Santos
  • Patent number: 7811267
    Abstract: A kit is provided, which comprises a) a collagen patch and b) an adhesive composition comprising (i) fibrin, fibrinogen or a combination thereof, and (ii) a biocompatible polymer capable of forming a viscous aqueous solution. Also provided is use of the kit for the preparation of a sealing device for use in ophthalmic surgery to replace a natural lens which has been removed, in which sealing device the collagen patch of the kit is adapted to seal an opening in a capsular bag of an eye while admitting the entrance of an injection device through the opening for injection of a lens-forming material into the capsule; and in which sealing device the adhesive composition of the kit is adapted to be applied to the collagen patch so as to enable adhesion of the collagen patch to the capsular bag. Also provided are methods for sealing an opening in a capsular bag of an eye, in which methods the kit is employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: AMO Groningen B.V.
    Inventors: Sverker Norrby, Rolf Bergman, Jöns Hillborn
  • Patent number: 7811268
    Abstract: A device is made up of one piece, or two independent pieces, that can be linked with each other to make a unit. The anterior end of a drainage tube is introduced 2 mm into the anterior chamber of the eye while the rear end of the tube is placed in the scleral lake. A cover is a plane body slight in height and oval or oblong in format that is provided with four parallel cuts that create two girths. The said girths are used to retain the drainage tube below the cover, thus creating a curvature in it to form a concave inner surface and a convex outer surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Artom S.A.
    Inventor: Arturo Maldon Ado Bas
  • Publication number: 20100256578
    Abstract: Punctal plugs for delivering therapeutic agents have a body, a portion into which the therapeutic agent is held, a winding about the body, and an enlarged portion or anchor at an end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Inventors: Victor Lust, Phillip King Parnell, SR., Vincent G. McAteer, Brian Schwam, Hassan Chaouk
  • Patent number: 7799003
    Abstract: An emergency eye wash system having a support panel and a pair of brackets for holding two bag assemblies containing sterile and sealed eye wash solution. The bag assemblies are connected by hoses to a pair of nozzles mounted on a pivotal tray assembly. When the system is dormant, the tray assembly is in a vertical closed position. When there is an emergency, a user pulls on a pivotal handle to puncture membranes in the hoses and to lower the tray assembly to cause flow from the bags to the nozzles to the user's face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: ENCON Safety Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert James Johnson, David G. Key, Kenneth J. Buras, Jr., Troy A. Della Fiora, Jim R. Dulaney
  • Patent number: 7785285
    Abstract: A punctal plug inserted into the punctum-canaliculus, includes a shaft, a tip portion attached to one end of said shaft and a brim attached to the other end of said shaft, and a thin member penetrated into either one or all 3 out of said tip portion, shaft and brim, or said tip portion and shaft, or said shaft and brim. The thin member is thread 0.05 mm or less in diameter. The brim is disk shaped and the diameter of the brim is far smaller than the diameter of the tip. A protuberance is attached to the tip portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: MLC Limited Company
    Inventor: Katsuaki Kurihashi
  • Publication number: 20100137818
    Abstract: A multi-piece punctal plug has one or more superficial plugs connected to an anchor plug deeper in the naso-lacrimal canaliculus. The anchor is fixed to the wall of the lacrimal duct while the superficial plugs are axially and detachably secured to the anchor plug so that the multi-plug complex may be inserted or removed together as one, or the superficial plugs may be detached separately and replaced securely without disturbing the anchor. Removal and insertion is accomplished by a specific tool having an end for engaging the plugs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2008
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventor: Steven Odrich
  • Patent number: 7708750
    Abstract: An automated mechanical device separates the epithelial layer of a cornea from the cornea. The device includes a separator such as a plate, wire or dull blade. The device can preserve a separated epithelial layer as a disk without rupturing the disk and without substantial epithelial cell loss. The epithelial layer is separated from the cornea without cutting the cornea.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: FOS Holdings S.A.
    Inventors: Ioannis Pallikaris, Harilaos S. Ginis
  • Patent number: 7708723
    Abstract: Disclosed are devices and methods for the transfer of fluids and potentially toxic chemicals into the lens capsule by creating a closed system preventing the fluids from entering the anterior chamber of the eye and thus causing damage to other ocular structures. The invention comprises one or more fluid conduits which communicate with a plug which maybe inserted through the corneal incision and placed onto the anterior surface of the capsule around the capsulorhexis. The plug is adapted to seal against the anterior surface of the lens capsule. In preferred embodiments, the flow of fluids into and out of the plug (and therefore the capsule) are controlled from a separate fluid flow controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Inventors: Anthony Maloof, Geoffrey Neilson
  • Publication number: 20100106111
    Abstract: A mask for the relief of dry eye in a dry eye subject, including a unitary shell shaped to cover at least one eye and a portion of a face. The shell includes a first layer and a second layer the first layer that is substantially moisture impermeable and the second layer that is moisture absorbent. The first layer and the second layer meeting at a layer interface. The first layer and the second layer are substantially coextensive over substantially the entire layer interface and are secured together over substantially the entire layer interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2008
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventors: Mary Schwebel, Kays Chinai
  • Patent number: 7682023
    Abstract: A method of determining and/or tracking the position of an eye, includes utilizing at least two wavelength components of a plural wavelength zone that traverses the limbus of the eye to obtain a profile of whiteness and/or redness across the zone, and identifying from the profile at least one predetermined reference position that indicates the position of the eye. Apparatus for carrying out the method is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Customvis PLC
    Inventor: Paul Van Saarloos
  • Patent number: 7678089
    Abstract: An ophthalmic delivery device includes a body defining a fluid reservoir and a pump in fluid communication with the reservoir. The delivery device also includes a nozzle that includes a dosage chamber for holding a dosage of fluid, a valve seat, and a valve cover. The valve cover extends about the valve seat and forms an interface therebetween and the valve seat includes an outlet aperture. The interface is in fluid communication with the outlet aperture and the dosage chamber, and at least part of the valve cover is movable between (i) a closed position with the valve cover engaging the valve seat to close the interface and form a fluid-tight seal therebetween, and (ii) an open position with at least part of the valve cover spaced away from the valve seat in response to fluid flowing through the outlet aperture at a pressure greater than a valve opening pressure to allow the passage of pressurized fluid therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Medical Instill Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Py, Julian V. Chan, Jeffrey M. Atwood
  • Publication number: 20100056991
    Abstract: In various embodiments, aspiration tubing connecting a handpiece to a surgical console may include a high compliant section, a transition section, and a low compliant section. In some embodiments, the high compliant section may have a lower durometer and/or different geometry than the low compliant section. The transition section may take a number of forms, including a connector or a continuous section of tubing that gradually increases in durometer and/or changes geometry through the length of the tubing. In the various embodiments, the high compliant section may provide flexibility near the handpiece to make the handpiece easier to hold and maneuver while the low compliant section may reduce the effects of occlusion break surge. In some embodiments, the high compliant section may include, for example, ribs, stiffening rings, a stiffening sleeve, or a stiffening sock to increase the stiffness of the high compliant section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventors: Ramon Carsola Dimalanta, JR., Grace Chuang Liao, Robert Harry Peterson
  • Publication number: 20100057024
    Abstract: A meatal plug, comprising a stem and a bulb arranged at one end of the stem, the bulb protruding laterally over said stem, a hole being formed in the plug, and the hole opening at the end of the stem opposite the bulb and said hole extending at least into the bulb, characterised in that the ratio of the height dimension of the stem, measured along its longitudinal axis to the length dimension along this same bulb axis is greater than 1, preferably greater than 2.5, the ratio of the width dimension of the bulb to its length, i.e. measured in a direction perpendicular to the stem axis, is greater than 1, preferably greater than 2.5.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2007
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Pascal Bernard
  • Patent number: 7658729
    Abstract: A cannula support serves in supporting a cannula relative to a non-contact lens assembly and a positioning mechanism for positioning the non-contact lens assembly. The cannula support includes a cannula holder and a gripper disposed relative to the cannula holder. The cannula holder is provided for receiving at least a portion of the cannula. The gripper is adapted to cooperatively engage a portion of one of the non-contact lens assembly and the positioning mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Inventor: Thomas P. Hull
  • Publication number: 20100004609
    Abstract: A novel system for coloring the sclera of a human eye, including steps of accessing the conjunctiva, drying a portion of the conjunctiva, applying one or more colorants to the dried portion of the conjunctiva, drying the colorant, and closing access to the conjunctiva. The system avoids tattooing, implanting, and corneal modification. Permanent results may be obtained. Colorants may be coverings or stains.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2009
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventor: Michael Campion
  • Publication number: 20100004610
    Abstract: A method for suspending colorant in a subconjunctival space of a human eye, including steps of accessing the subconjunctival space, injecting colorant into the subconjunctival space, suspending colorant in the subconjunctival space, spreading the colorant into a desired pattern, and closing access to the subconjunctival space. The system avoids tattooing, implanting, and corneal modification. Permanent results may be obtained. Colorants may be suspensions or stains.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2009
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventor: Michael Campion
  • Publication number: 20090308386
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for the delivery of predetermined doses of liquid medicament to a patient, which medicament is intended to be inhaled by the patient or intended to be injected into the body of the patient. The device is adapted to be in a medicament delivery state and in a medicament non-delivery state. When the device is in a medicament delivery state, said device is adapted to drive a piston into a cartridge containing the liquid medicament to be delivered, with a predetermined force value. The device is designed and arranged to ensure that the predetermined dose of medicament expelled from the cartridge has a high degree of accuracy and to show the user in a simple manner how much medicament is remaining in the cartridge after a dose or several doses has/have been expelled and at the same time offering a shorter device, which is more convenient for the user when he/she has to carry it with him/her.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2006
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Applicant: SHL Medical AB
    Inventors: Victor Kronestedt, Lennart Brunnberg, Stephan Olson
  • Publication number: 20090312724
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods of treating nasal and/or ophthalmic diseases, symptoms, or disorders that are therapeutically responsive to corticosteroid therapy by delivering aqueous solution formulations comprising a corticosteroid to nasal and ophthalmic tissues. The invention is also directed to methods, systems, devices, and compositions for delivering aqueous solution formulations comprising a corticosteroid and an antihistamine to nasal and ophthalmic tissues.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Applicant: CYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.
    Inventors: James D. Pipkin, Rupert O. Zimmerer, John M. Siebert
  • Patent number: 7632255
    Abstract: A subpalpebral lavage catheter device for a mammal comprising a subpalpebral catheter having a first and a second end wherein the first end is located under the skin of the mammal and the second end further comprises an injection port, a hollow pouch, wherein the pouch has an opening adapted to receive the injection port of the catheter, a means for closing the opening of said pouch, and a plurality of loops attached to a side of the pouch, spaced apart and of a length wherein the loops are adapted to be braided into hair of the mammal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Inventor: Andrea H. Selch
  • Publication number: 20090306608
    Abstract: The invention provides devices useful for the delivery of active agents to the eye in a controlled manner. In the devices of the invention, the active agent is present within the device in a continuous or discontinuous concentration gradient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventors: Zhigang Li, Michael J. Trezza, II, Maureen J. Borgia, Aruna Nathan, Bret A. Coldren
  • Patent number: 7621897
    Abstract: The combination of a squeezable bottle containing an ophthalmic fluid and a detachable applicator apparatus for efficiently spraying the ophthalmic fluid to an eye. The applicator apparatus includes a body having an inlet end portion for attaching the applicator apparatus to the bottle and an outlet end portion for centering the applicator apparatus on the eye, a circular outer planar flange portion extending outwardly in covering relationship from said body circular outlet portion to limit the intrusion of the outlet end portion into the bony orbital ocular opening which surrounds the eye; and a soft resilient seal for sealing a nozzle when the applicator apparatus is not used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventor: Joseph J. Berke
  • Publication number: 20090240217
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention provides a device and method for treating recurrent corneal erosion. In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of contacting an epithelium layer of a cornea with an array of glass micro-rods including a plurality of sharp features having a length that penetrates a Bowman's layer of the eye, wherein the plurality of sharp features of the array of glass micro-rods produces a plurality of punctures in the Bowman's layer of the eye that are of micro-scale or less. In another embodiment, the present invention provides a method and device for drug delivery. In one embodiment, the device includes an array of glass micro-rods, wherein at least one glass micro-rod of the array of glass micro-rods includes a sharp feature opposite a base of the array of glass micro-rods, wherein the sharp feature includes a treated surface for delivering a chemical compound to the eye.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2008
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Applicant: UT-BATTELLE, LLC
    Inventors: Charles L. Britton, Brian R. D'Urso, Edward Chaum, John T. Simpson, Justin S. Baba, M. Nance Ericson, Robert J. Warmack
  • Publication number: 20090240215
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a drug-delivery device includes one or more reservoirs that may each contain a therapeutic agent for delivery to a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventors: Mark Humayun, Sean Caffey
  • Publication number: 20090220573
    Abstract: A method, device, and system for easier, consistent, and comfortable delivery of therapeutic agents to the front of the eye.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventor: Herbert Edward Kaufman
  • Patent number: 7578808
    Abstract: The invention provides a suction-cleansing device that is capable of forming a swirling stream at a position close to skin and has both a cleansing and a massaging effect by adequately maintaining a state of minute air bubbles in the stream of water, comprising a vessel body having a hollow portion converging from the rear part side thereof toward the front part side thereof, an air/liquid jetting port secured at the front end portion of the vessel body, a liquid-introducing pipe 4 connected to the circumferential wall at the rear part side of the vessel body in the tangential direction, and an air/liquid jet-guiding portion that is disposed at the outer circumferential portion of the air/liquid jetting port and is widened to open from the air/liquid jetting port toward the jetting direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventor: Ryosaku Fujisato
  • Patent number: 7563242
    Abstract: An ultrasonic surgery apparatus capable of setting surgical conditions properly in accordance with hardness of a nucleus lentis and performing surgery with efficiency is disclosed. The ultrasonic surgery apparatus includes an ultrasonic vibration inducing unit, having an ultrasonic chip which induces ultrasonic vibrations to fragment and emulsify a nucleus lentis, an input unit which inputs a judgment result of hardness of the nucleus lentis, and a setting unit which sets a condition of the ultrasonic vibrations thereafter based on the inputted judgment result.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Nidek Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shigeo Yaguchi, Hidenori Kanda
  • Patent number: 7563255
    Abstract: The invention provides a miniaturized, implantable drug delivery device and a method of delivering over a prolonged period of time one or more drugs using such a device. The drug delivery device can be adapted for attachment to the outer surface of an eye. Once attached to the outer surface of an eye, the device can deliver one or more drugs directly into the eye for preventing or ameliorating the symptoms of a particular ocular disorder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignees: Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony P. Adamis, Joan W. Miller, Evangelos S. Gragoudas, Mark J. Mescher, Christopher E. Dubé, Jeffrey T. Borenstein, Marcie G. Weinstein, Raanan A. Miller, Mitchell L. Hansberry
  • Publication number: 20090171305
    Abstract: Corneal collagen crosslinking of CKR™-treated cornea results in a long-lasting, potentially permanent correction of corneal shape and improved vision.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: Sami G. El Hage
  • Publication number: 20090137992
    Abstract: An irrigating probe for providing a flow of liquid to the trabecular meshwork of the eye has a first, guide prong that contacts the cornea to position a second, irrigator prong proximate the trabecular meshwork. The irrigator prong has at least one outlet port communicating with an internal flow channel which, in turn, communicates with a liquid supply providing a steady or a pulsed flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: Ravi Nallakrishnan
  • Patent number: 7527621
    Abstract: The invention is directed to an implantable device to enable delivery of drugs to the retina. The device minimizes stress to the retina by virtue of its softness and smooth shape that conform to the retina. Drugs are delivered by osmosis or by the device dissolving. It may be connected to an externally mounted pump and drug reservoir that control the amount of drug. It contains one or more holes that are positioned to deliver drugs to the desired location. Drugs may stimulate the retina to enable vision in blind patients. Drugs may be injected directly inside the eye by a trans-scleral pump and valve drug delivery device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Greenberg
  • Patent number: 7524511
    Abstract: A method for moisturizing the eye in which an amount of aqueous fluid is administered to the eye in an amount below that which causes flooding of the eye and removal of the normal tear film from the surface of the eye. The fluid, when administered in accordance with the invention, rehydrates the already present tear film rather than replacing the tear film. A kit for moisturizing the eye in accordance with the invention is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Rogue Valley Natural Springs, Inc.
    Inventor: Sharon F. Kleyne
  • Patent number: 7524310
    Abstract: A surgical hand tool, comprising a handle with a substantially elongated fluid guide extending away therefrom, which fluid guide terminates, at a distal end, in a brush head and is connectable, at a proximal end, to the fluid chamber accommodated in the handle, such that, during use, fluid can flow from the fluid chamber through the fluid guide in order to be dispensed via the brush head, wherein the brush head is accommodated in an insertion sleeve, and is slidable from a first position in which the brush head is located inside the insertion sleeve to a second position in which at least a part of the brush head extends outside the insertion sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Dutch Ophthalmic Research Center B.V.
    Inventors: Carsten Helmut Meyer, Eduardo Büchele Rodriques, Gerrit Jan Vijfvinkel
  • Publication number: 20090093781
    Abstract: Various embodiments of MEMS flow modules that both filter and regulate pressure are disclosed. One such MEMS flow module (58) has a tuning element (78) and a lower plate (70). A plurality of springs or spring-like structures (82) interconnect the tuning element (78) with the lower plate (70) in a manner that allows the tuning element (78) to move either toward or away from the lower plate (70), depending upon the pressure being exerted on the tuning element (78) by a flow through a lower flow port (74) on the lower plate (70). The tuning element (78) is disposed over this lower flow port (74) to induce a flow through the MEMS flow module (58) along a non-linear (geometrically) flow path. Preferably, a relatively small change in the pressure exerted by this flow on the tuning element (78) produces greater than a linear change in the flow rate out of the MEMS flow module (58).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Applicant: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Jeffry J. Sniegowski, Paul J. McWhorter, M. Steven Rodgers
  • Publication number: 20090093780
    Abstract: The present invention includes methods and devices for non-invasively delivering an active agent to the eye of a subject. In one aspect, for example, a device for delivering an active agent to an eye of a subject may include an ocular lens-shaped housing configured to contact a surface of the eye, and a reservoir coupled to the housing and configured to deliver an active agent to the eye, wherein the reservoir is located entirely within a 180 degree section of the housing. In another aspect, the reservoir is located entirely within a 150 degree section of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventors: Anthony L. Tuitupou, John W. Higuchi
  • Patent number: 7513893
    Abstract: A container has an impermeable outer membrane sized to fit generally within the peri-orbital region and sufficiently flexible to mold to the structure of the closed eye. Heat which is generated by an exothermic reaction inside the container, which provides steady-state heat to the eyelids. A soft, non-abrasive, lint-free material is presoaked in a pH controlled (preferably antibacterial and hypoallergenic) detergent, with or without an ophthalmic antibiotic solution. The compress may also have a handle which makes holding and maneuvering the compress more feasible, while protecting the user's fingers from the heat, and preventing the contamination of the compress by the fingers. The compress may be packed in a watertight, sterile wrapper which will prevent drying of the detergent solution. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Inventor: Abraham Ebbie Soroudi
  • Publication number: 20090044397
    Abstract: In a first aspect of the subject invention, a method is provided for preparing a pump assembly which includes providing a glass or plastic eyedrop vial having a predetermined ophthalmic fluid therein; providing a pump mechanism having a pump inlet; and, securing the pump mechanism to the vial with the pump inlet extending into the vial to form a pump assembly. With the subject invention, a pump assembly can be advantageously formed using standard glass or plastic eyedrop vials. In a second aspect of the subject invention, a method is provided of preparing a pump assembly which includes providing an eyedrop dispenser having a dropper portion and a vial; removing the dropper portion from the vial; providing a pump mechanism having a pump inlet; and, securing the pump mechanism to the vial with the pump inlet extending into the vial to form a pump assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: BEN Z. COHEN, NIGEL B. KELLY
  • Publication number: 20090041828
    Abstract: The invention relates to an insert for the treatment of dry eyes, wherein the insert can be placed on or inserted into the lacrimal sac or the cornea.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Inventors: Chris P. Lohmann, Achim Goepferich, Christoph Koelwel
  • Publication number: 20090036827
    Abstract: Ophthalmic drug delivery devices useful for delivery of pharmaceutically active agents to the posterior segment of the eye are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventor: Karl Cazzini