Means For Treating Eye Or Surface Of Ocular Cavity Patents (Class 604/294)
  • Patent number: 6958056
    Abstract: A multipurpose phacoemulsification needle includes a needle body having a lumen therethrough for aspiration of fluids and tissue. A needle body includes a proximal end adapted for attachment to a phacoemulsification handpiece and a tip portion disposed at a distal end of the needle body. The tip portion includes a truncated hemisphere having a flat surface thereon and a port disposed in the flat surface. The truncated hemisphere includes a rounded surface of sufficient area to enable capsule polishing and when driven in an ultrasonic mode, the needle is also suitable for irrigation and aspiration as well as phacoemulsification of lens tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Advanced Medical Optics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth E. Kadziauskas, Mark E. Steen, Thomas B. Sutton
  • Patent number: 6913598
    Abstract: This is a handheld eye flushing apparatus that comprises an eyecup that holds eyewash liquid in it for eye flushing. The rim of the eyecup is contoured to the eye orbit and rests on the eye orbital area. Attached to the inside of the eyecup is a stirring mechanism that stirs the eyewash liquid during usage. The force and duration of the stirring is predetermined to prevent eye damage. This apparatus accommodates the free movement of the eyelids and the eyeball inside the eyecup during utilization. The rim of this eyecup may have a liner to further increase comfort and liquid sealing around the eye. A magnetic strip may be placed near the bottom part of the rim to catch ferrous metal particles in industrial environment usage. A grid may be added between the rim and the agitator to keep the user away from the agitator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Inventor: Kuldip Chand Tangri
  • Patent number: 6899877
    Abstract: A process for inhibiting vascular proliferation separately introduces components into the eye to generate plasmin in the eye in amounts to induce complete posterior vitreous detachment where the vitreoretinal interface is devoid of cortical vitreous remnants. The process administers a combination of lysine-plasminogen, at least one recombinant plasminogen activator selected from the group consisting of urokinase, streptokinase, tissue plasminogen activator, chondroitinase, pro-urokinase, retavase, metaloproteinase, and thermolysin and a gaseous adjuvant to form a cavity in the vitreous. The composition is introduced into the vitreous in an amount effective to induce crosslinking of the vitreous and to induce substantially complete posterior vitreous detachment from the retina without causing inflammation of the retina.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Minu, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Gholam A. Peyman
  • Patent number: 6886933
    Abstract: A treatment for dry eye syndrome. An at least partially sealed chamber including a reservoir for moisture for surrounding the eyes is disclosed. The invention may be transparent for use during the day or in association with prescription or non-prescription lenses. The moisture chamber may also be opaque to act as a blackout mask for sleeping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: Mary L. Schwebel
  • Patent number: 6869421
    Abstract: A device (10) for non-gravity presentation of a droplet (16) of a liquid (12). The device includes an applicator (20) for forming the droplet and a squeeze-type bottle (18) that contains the liquid used to form the droplet. The applicator includes an upwardly-facing presentation surface (36) upon which the droplet is formed. One or more capillary tubes (38) communicate liquid from inside the bottle to the presentation surface via an uptake tube (40) when a user squeezes the bottle. Each capillary tube has a diameter of no greater than about 0.0787 inch (2 mm). Once the droplet has been formed, the user may tilt the device up to a critical tilt angle ?critical, above which the droplet will fall from the presentation surface. When the device is tilted to a tilt angle ? less than or equal to the critical tilt angle, capillary attraction between the droplet and the capillary tube(s) retains the droplet on the presentation surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Inventor: Gary L. Hanley
  • Publication number: 20040215157
    Abstract: A device and use method for ejecting a liquid stream towards an eye, the stream moving from a proximal position towards a distal position, the device comprising a) a housing, b) a container for the liquid, c) at least one opening arranged for ejection of the stream and being in fluid communication with the container, d) a pump mechanism operable to deliver at least part of the liquid from the container through the opening to form the stream and e) an eyecup with a contact surface arranged for contact with the eye or its facial surroundings. The eyecup is arranged movable with respect to the opening or housing between at least two positions i) an active position with said eyecup contact surface at a defined safety distance to the opening and ii) a rest position with the eyecup contact surface at a position more proximal than in the active position and a sensor is arranged to allow discrimination between the positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2004
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventors: Christian Peclat, Emmanuel Gremion, Alain Saurer, Daniel Siegfried, Stefan Kaser, Beat Villiger, Hans Himbert
  • Publication number: 20040215156
    Abstract: Optically transparent, relatively high refractive index polymeric compositions and ophthalmic devices such as intraocular lenses, contact lenses and corneal inlays made therefrom are described herein. The preferred polymeric compositions are produced through the polymerization of one or more aromatic-based silyl monomers or the copolymerization of one or more aromatic-based silyl monomers with one or more aromatic or non-aromatic non-siloxy-based monomers, hydrophobic monomers or hydrophilic monomers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventors: Joseph C. Salamone, Jay F. Kunzler, Richard M. Ozark, David E. Seelye, David P. Vanderbilt
  • Patent number: 6805698
    Abstract: A microkeratome blade for use for the removal of the epithelial layer and underlying Basement Membrane while leaving a smooth and undisturbed Bowman's Membrane in preparation for a laser refractive surgical procedure. The blade is capable of cutting through the epithelial layer and Basement Membrane, but not capable of cutting through Bowman's Membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Alcon, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey T. Shimmel, Alex C. Sacharoff, George A. Kocar, Peter Austin
  • Patent number: 6780164
    Abstract: Surgical methods and related medical devices for treating glaucoma are disclosed. The method comprises trabecular bypass surgery, which involve bypassing diseased trabecular meshwork with the use of a seton implant. The seton implant is used to prevent a healing process known as filling in, which has a tendency to close surgically created openings in the trabecular meshwork. The surgical method and novel implant are addressed to the trabecular meshwork, which is a major site of resistance to outflow in glaucoma. In addition to bypassing the diseased trabecular meshwork at the level of the trabecular meshwork, existing outflow pathways are also used or restored. The seton implant is positioned through the trabecular meshwork so that an inlet end of the seton implant is exposed to the anterior chamber of the eye and an outlet end is positioned into fluid collection channels at about an exterior surface of the trabecular meshwork or up to the level of aqueous veins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Glaukos Corporation
    Inventors: Olav B. Bergheim, Morteza (Mory) Gharib
  • Patent number: 6773442
    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: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: FOS Holding S.A.
    Inventors: Ioannis Pallikaris, Harilaos S. Ginis
  • Publication number: 20040147944
    Abstract: A multi-function surgical instrument for facilitating ophthalmic surgery of the eye (3) by laser means, included are a lower ring (1) and an upper ring (2). One or two intermediate rings may also be included. The lower ring (1) includes a central aperture (11) to capture the limbus and aid in positioning of the eye (3). Protuberances on the lower surface (18) of said ring (1), application of vacuum between the lower surface (18) of the ring (1) and the eye (3), or both may be used to more firmly grip the eye (3). Ports (14) disposed on the upper surface (13) of the lower ring (1) and connected to a vacuum source may be used to control hydration of the surgical field. Attached to structures of the lower ring (1) is a sterile platform (17) for reposing temporarily removed tissues (32) during the administration of laser pulses to other tissues. The upper ring (2) is disposed above the surgical bed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2003
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Inventor: Leon C LaHaye
  • Patent number: 6752795
    Abstract: An adjustable fluid flow resistor cassette 10 for use in ophthalmic surgery, includes a housing 12. A set of path restrictors 24 are disposed within the housing 12, and the restrictors 24 cooperate to vary a fluid flow path length from an inlet 16 to an outlet 18.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Assignee: Bausch & Lomb Incorporated
    Inventor: Laurence J. Cull
  • Patent number: 6752793
    Abstract: A device for dispensing a controlled volume of liquid includes a container and a dispensing tube for the container. A first section of the tube is made of a hydrophilic material, and a second section of the tube is made of a hydrophobic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventors: Gustavo A. Dascanio, M. Edmund Ellion
  • Publication number: 20040106906
    Abstract: An ophthalmic drug delivery device having a first end and a second end, an injection port, a reservoir, and a sleeve is disclosed. The injection port is for sealingly engaging a needle of a syringe, which is for providing a fluid comprising a pharmaceutically active agent. The reservoir is disposed within the device, is fluidly coupled to the injection port, and has an opening for communicating the fluid to an outer surface of a sclera of an eye. The sleeve is for engaging the device proximate overlapping portions of the first end and the second end for forming a generally ring-shaped three-dimensional geometry upon implantation of the device on the outer surface of the sclera. The device is useful for the treatment of a disease of the posterior segment of the eye.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Publication date: June 3, 2004
    Inventor: Yoseph Yaacobi
  • Patent number: 6730065
    Abstract: A method for optimizing pupil size in individuals suffering from excessive pupillary dilation in dim light as well as through medication is disclosed. Alpha 1 antagonist is applied in an eye drop formulation to the eye, resulting in reduced pupil size in dim light, but less reduction in pupil size in bright light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Ocularis Pharma, Inc.
    Inventor: Gerald Horn
  • Patent number: 6728573
    Abstract: An iontophoretic apparatus comprising a housing member, a current distribution member, a medicament containment member and a handle member. The current distribution member is associated with the housing member. The medicament containment member is associated with the current distribution member. The handle member is associated with the housing member. The handle member facilitates the positioning and placement of the iontophoretic apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Iomed, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon E. Beck, Alexander K. Koss
  • Patent number: 6726666
    Abstract: In preferred aspects the invention provides an in-line humidifier, a system using such a humidifier and methods related thereto, a method for infusing a gas into an eye during retinal detachment surgical procedure and a method for treating a retinal tear. The method for infusing gas includes providing an in-line humidifier, humidifying the gas in the in-line humidifier by flowing the gas there through and infusing the humidified gas into the eye. The in-line humidifier includes a housing and a humidifier section disposed within the housing, the humidifier section including a hydroscopic material that releasably retains liquid therein. The housing includes an inlet and outlet connection in fluid communication with the housing interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventor: Eugene de Juan, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6726665
    Abstract: A unit container for a treatment fluid comprises a sealed enclosure of which one wall section thereof is formed with at least one opening. The enclosure is pressuriseable to discharge its contents through the opening or openings, which is or are of sufficient diameter to enable the generation of a jet and/or discrete droplets of treatment fluid discharged therefrom. The one wall section is typically a flat section of the enclosure wall, and the enclosure is typically a blister pack, with the wall section at a planar base of the blister. However, the one wall section may be dome-shaped and formed with at least one opening in the top region of the dome. Containers of the invention may be provided in packages, for example in strip form or in planar arrays. Dispensing devices are described for discharging their contents in treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Pharmacia Aktiebolag
    Inventors: Jonathan K. Embleton, Stephen P. Jones, Richard J. Malcolmson, Luigi G. Martini, Peter J. Houzego, Sarah A. Rocca, Howard N. Stevens
  • Patent number: 6699210
    Abstract: A glaucoma shunt including first and second porous regions laminated together, and a third region having edge areas fused to edge areas of the second region so as to form a hollow reservoir therebetween. Also included is a catheter having a first end sandwiched between the second and third regions and a second end to be implanted into an anterior region of an eye. A method of making and surgically implanting such a glaucoma shunt is also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: The Arizona Board of Regents
    Inventors: Stuart K. Williams, Robert Snyder
  • Patent number: 6695821
    Abstract: An intraocular surgical tool for infusing fluid into an eye of a patient. The tool is provided with a housing having a longitudinal bore opening into an aperture. A flow diffuser is positioned over the aperture to diffuse and slow the flow of fluid through the aperture. The flow diffuser may be a cone positioned over the aperture or a permeable cap fitted over the aperture. By diffusing and slowing the flow of fluid, the risk of damage to the interior of the eye is decreased and more fluid is maintained near the tip of the bore after being expelled from the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Raymond N. Sjaarda
  • Patent number: 6692481
    Abstract: A method of improving vision in an amblyopic eye is described in which vision in the dominant eye is reversibly disrupted. The technique promotes improvement of visual acuity in the weaker eye. The disclosed method is particularly suitable for treatment of adult amblyopia. The method also includes several devices suitable for use in the described treatments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: John M. Guerrero
  • Publication number: 20040019336
    Abstract: Eye wipes small in size and optionally may include a slot or other cavity to enable a finger to be inserted to control the eye wipe and reduce the chance of a fingernail damaging an eye. The eye wipe may be substantially free from chemicals or other eye irritants and optionally include solutions that are “eye-friendly”, such as saline or other solutions as understood in the art. Still yet, the inventive eye wipes may be substantially free from pulp, filaments, or other fibrous material and may be textured or non-textured. In one embodiment, the eye wipe may be utilized for removing makeup and be saturated with makeup removing solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Angela Temple, Gary B. Solomon
  • Patent number: 6666841
    Abstract: A trabecular shunt and methods for treating glaucoma are disclosed. The method comprises placing a trabecular shunt through diseased trabecular meshwork, between the anterior chamber and Schlemm's canal. The trabecular shunt includes a hollow, elongated tubular element having an inlet section and an outlet section. The outlet section includes two bifurcatable elements adapted to be positioned and stabilized inside Schlemm's canal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: Glaukos Corporation
    Inventors: Morteza Gharib, Hosheng Tu, Olav Bergheim
  • Patent number: 6659985
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method for treating dry eye or increasing contact lens wear time through the transdermal delivery of androgenic hormones to the adnexa of the eye. More specifically, an androgenic hormone such as testosterone or dehydroepiandrosterone is solubilized in pharmaceutically effective carrier such as a facial cream or gel. The androgenic hormone in a pharmaceutically effective carrier is applied to the adnexa of the eye, which is the tissue adjacent to and surrounding the eyeball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Southern College of Optometry
    Inventor: Charles Gerald Connor
  • Publication number: 20030225381
    Abstract: A flat strip of supporting material, such as filter paper, having marked reference locations on each of one or more legs, for delivering controlled quantities of one or more agents to the adnexa of the eye simultaneously upon dispensing a liquid to the strip at the appropriate reference location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Johan T.W. Van Dalen
  • Patent number: 6656197
    Abstract: The multi-function surgical instrument for facilitating corneal surgery by laser includes lower and upper rings. Lower ring includes a wall structure about a central aperture. Wall of the lower ring isolates a cornea disposed within the central aperture. Drainage system of the lower ring is used to control hydration of corneal tissue disposed in the central aperture. Platform of the lower ring isolates and prevents excessive hydration of a corneal flap reposed thereon. Upper ring includes a plurality of passages having directed ports and may be used to evacuate plume, direct beneficial fluids or gases onto tissues below.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Inventor: Leon C. LaHaye
  • Publication number: 20030208168
    Abstract: This is a handheld eye flushing apparatus that comprises an eyecup that holds eyewash liquid in it for eye flushing. The rim of the eyecup is contoured to the eye orbit and rests on the eye orbital area. Attached to the inside of the eyecup is a stirring mechanism that stirs the eyewash liquid during usage. The force and duration of the stirring is predetermined to prevent eye damage. This apparatus accommodates the free movement of the eyelids and the eyeball inside the eyecup during utilization. The rim of this eyecup may have a liner to further increase comfort and liquid sealing around the eye. A magnetic strip may be placed near the bottom part of the rim to catch ferrous metal particles in industrial environment usage. A grid may be added between the rim and the agitator to keep the user away from the agitator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Kuldip Chand Tangri
  • Patent number: 6638239
    Abstract: Surgical methods and related medical devices for treating glaucoma are disclosed. The method comprises trabecular bypass surgery, which involve bypassing diseased trabecular meshwork with the use of a seton implant. The seton implant is used to prevent a healing process known as filling in, which has a tendency to close surgically created openings in the trabecular meshwork. The surgical method and novel implant are addressed to the trabecular meshwork, which is a major site of resistance to outflow in glaucoma. In addition to bypassing the diseased trabecular meshwork at the level of the trabecular meshwork, existing outflow pathways are also used or restored. The seton implant is positioned through the trabecular meshwork so that an inlet end of the seton implant is exposed to the anterior chamber of the eye and an outlet end is positioned into fluid collection channels at about an exterior surface of the trabecular meshwork or up to the level of aqueous veins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Glaukos Corporation
    Inventors: Olav B. Bergheim, Morteza (Mory) Gharib
  • Patent number: 6623517
    Abstract: A cooled, therapeutic gelatinous disc is provided which includes a convex face configured to overlie a typical human eye and a surrounding margin of tissue. The convex face of the disc includes a non-planar surface, which presents a non-uniform, three-dimensional surface for contacting the eye. Water, gelatin powder, therapeutic plant extracts and oils, methylparaben, diazolidinyl urea and a coloring agent are mixed, poured into a mold and then cooled to form a cooled gelatinous disc having a convex face with the raised swirl design. A plastic film is attached to the mold to hermetically seal the gelatinous disc, which sealed assembly is stored in a light-impermeable and resealable bag. The gelatinous disc may be removed from the mold and placed onto the eye and surrounding tissue, preferably in connection with a moisturizer, in order to relieve irritation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Inventors: Laura DeLuisa, Cristina Bartolucci
  • Patent number: 6616677
    Abstract: A system and method for producing a high repetition pulsed microjet for use in medical applications. The device includes a stagnation chamber and a hydraulic pump for pumping a sterile fluid into the stagnation chamber. A flexible walled volume disposed in the stagnation chamber and filled with a hydraulic fluid. The hydraulic piston is cyclically displaced towards/away from the stagnation chamber thereby increasing/decreasing the pressure of the hydraulic fluid on the flexible walled volume. In turn, the flexible walled volume is compressed and the sterile fluid is expelled through an orifice in the flexible walled volume under pressure producing the pulsed microjet. This process may be repeated to produce repetitive pulsed microjets. In addition, the flow conduction of the hydraulic fluid between the hydraulic pump and stagnation chamber may be controlled by inserting a blocking device therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Medjet, Inc.
    Inventor: Eugene Gordon
  • Patent number: 6602071
    Abstract: A handheld cleaning device includes a cleaning section having discharge and suction ports; and a pump for causing fluid to be discharged through the discharge port of the cleaning section and for simultaneously creating suction at the suction port of the cleaning section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventors: M. Edmund Ellion, Mark J. Shultz
  • Publication number: 20030144635
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method for treating dry eye or increasing contact lens wear time through the transdermal delivery of androgenic hormones to the adnexa of the eye. More specifically, an androgenic hormone such as testosterone or dehydroepiandrosterone is solubilized in pharmaceutically effective carrier such as a facial cream or gel. The androgenic hormone in a pharmaceutically effective carrier is applied to the adnexa of the eye, which is the tissue adjacent to and surrounding the eyeball.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventor: Charles Gerald Connor
  • Patent number: 6589217
    Abstract: Introduced is a device that may be used to treat the effects of macular degeneration and other eye disorders by increasing the optical effect of the retinal surface of the eye. This may be accomplished using a device whose body has a shape prescribed to increase the depth of the fovea and, in the process, make the sides of the clivus more convex, thereby utilizing the varying optical properties of the retinal area. A suitable association of this device with the eye will cause an image beam traveling from the lens through the vitreous humor to magnify and impinge an image perception area encompassing the macula. According to one advantageous embodiment, the device includes a body adapted for association with the eye to manipulate the retina of the eye to effectively augment the photoreceptor cells proximate the macula of the eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: RAS Holding Corp
    Inventor: Ronald A. Schachar
  • Patent number: 6585972
    Abstract: A process for inhibiting vascular proliferation introduces a composition into the eye inducing posterior vitreous detachment. The composition includes a combination of plasminogen, a collagen crosslinking agent and at least one plasminogen activator selected from the group consisting of urokinase, streptokinase, tissue plasminogen activator, chondroitinase, pro-urokinase, retavase, metaloproteinase, and thermolysin. The composition is introduced into the vitreous in an amount effective to induce crosslinking of the vitreous and to induce substantially complete or partial posterior vitreous detachment from the retina without causing inflammation of the retina. In one embodiment, a gaseous material is introduced into the vitreous before or simultaneously with the composition to compress the vitreous against the retina while the composition induces the posterior vitreous detachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Inventor: Gholam A. Peyman
  • Patent number: 6569153
    Abstract: A multi-function surgical instrument for facilitating ophthalmic surgery of the eye by laser means. Included are a lower ring and an upper ring. One or two intermediate rings may also be included. The lower ring includes a central aperture to capture the limbus and aid in positioning of the eye. Protuberances on the lower surface of said ring, application of vacuum between the lower surface of the ring and the eye, or both may be used to more firmly grip the eye. Ports disposed on the upper surface of the lower ring and connected to a vacuum source may be used to control hydration of the surgical field. Attached to and extending above the upper surface of the lower ring is a sterile platform for reposing temporarily removed tissues during the administration of laser pulses to other tissues. The upper ring is disposed above the surgical bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: Leon C. LaHaye
  • Patent number: 6551291
    Abstract: In preferred aspects, the present invention features a non-traumatic cannula for use in connection with eye surgery, such as retinal tear and/or detachment surgery. The non-traumatic cannula of the present invention is particularly configured so as to minimize or avoid the potential for damage to the retina when infusing air or a gas therein. Related methods are also disclosed for infusing air during eye surgical procedures e.g. for treating a retinal tear or detachment and macular hole surgery. The method for infusing a fluid, such as a gas, into a patient's eye during eye surgery includes flowing the fluid from a fluid source to the patient's eye and diffusing the flowing fluid as it enters into the patient eye. Such a method further includes providing a non-traumatic cannula that is fluidly coupled to the fluid source, and which diffuses fluid exiting an end thereof. Thus, the fluid flowing out of the cannula is thereby diffusively infused.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: Eugene de Juan, Jr., Patrick S. Jensen, Terry H. Shelley
  • Patent number: 6547770
    Abstract: A manually operated dispensing device for delivering ophthalmic solution to the surface of an eye in a desired spray pattern with an impact pressure on the eye that is comfortably tolerated by an individual. The device comprises a pressure container having a closed bottom and an open top defining a neck, for accommodating a pressurized gas and a pouch; a sealed pouch, for the ophthalmic solution, made of a barrier material and exhibiting a valve which is integrated with a mounting cup adapted to fit the neck of the container; and an actuator adapted to fit the mounting cup of the sealed pouch, comprising a nozzle member including a cylindrical tube member, adapted to interact with the valve, and an actuator button for activating the interaction between the nozzle member and the valve, in order to accomplish said desired spray pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Aiolos Systems Aktiebolag (AB)
    Inventors: Tony Carlsson, Bengt Hedman
  • Patent number: 6548078
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for administering a corticosteroid to a posterior segment of an eye. In the method, a sustained release device is implanted to deliver the corticosteroid to the eye. The aqueous corticosteroid concentration remains less than vitreous corticosteroid concentration during release of the corticosteroid from the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Control Delivery Systems
    Inventors: Hong Guo, Paul Ashton
  • Publication number: 20030065293
    Abstract: Delivery device 10 for use in ophthalmic surgery includes body portion 12 for retaining an agent to be applied to a patient's eye. Body portion 12 includes structure forming a concave surface 14, so that when the delivery device 10 is placed on the eye, the device 10 closely fits to a corneal curvature of the eye.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventor: Charles E. Hess
  • Patent number: 6540726
    Abstract: The invention provides a leakproof sealing system for an eyewash delivery apparatus that extends shelf life of sterile or preserved irrigant solution and is tamper evident. The sealing system has a cap that is positioned over an eye-cup. The boss extends from the cap and surrounds a plurality of spray nozzles. The seal is located adjacent the spray nozzles and is compressively held against the nozzles by a plurality of arms situated within the boss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: Bel-Art Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Follman, Paul Thom, David Landsberger
  • Publication number: 20030060447
    Abstract: Non-aspirating viscoelastics, compositions and methods of use are disclosed. The non-aspirating, transitional viscoelastics possess sufficient viscosity to be useful in ophthalmic viscosurgery, but may be left in the eye with little or no resulting IOP spike.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventors: Mutlu Karakelle, David L. Jinkerson, Michael R. Brunstedt, Anilbhai S. Patel, Kwan Y. Chan
  • Patent number: 6539251
    Abstract: An ocular iontophoretic apparatus comprising a reservoir which includes a outer rim. The outer rim includes a barrier. The barrier is positionable upon the surface of the eye and serves to provide a seal between the reservoir and the surface of the eye. In turn the passage of fluid across the barrier into and out of the reservoir is substantially precluded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Iomed, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon E. Beck, Alex Koss
  • Publication number: 20030055372
    Abstract: The present invention provides a shunt for the flow of aqueous humor from the anterior chamber of the eye to Schlemm's canal. The device comprises at least one lumen and optionally has at least one anchor extending from the proximal portion within the anterior chamber to assist in placement and anchoring of the device in the correct anatomic position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Mary G. Lynch, Reay Brown, Stuart Ball
  • Patent number: 6533764
    Abstract: Apparatus for instilling a medicament into an eye includes a housing having a longitudinal axis and a chamber disposed in the housing for containing a medicament. A nozzle is provided for instilling a dose of medicament into an eye and an actuator meters doses of medicament from the chamber to the nozzle and forces each metered dose through the nozzle upon axial displacement of the actuator along housing longitudinal axis. A spring causes the axial displacement of the actuator upon release of the spring from a compressed state. A collar disposed for rotation about the housing longitudinal axis is provided by compressing the spring by twisting the collar about the housing longitudinal axis and a trigger disposed in a housing is provided for releasing the compressed spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Allergan, Inc.
    Inventors: David S. Haffner, Patrick A. Myall, Bill Evans
  • Patent number: 6524287
    Abstract: Apparatus for instilling a medicament into an eye includes a housing, a reservoir, disposed in the housing and movable therein along a longitudinal axis, for containing a medicament and a nozzle disposed for instilling a dose of the medicament into an eye. An actuator is disposed between the reservoir and the nozzle for metering doses of medicament from the reservoir to the nozzle and forcing each metered dose through said nozzle upon acceleration of said actuator. A spring causes longitudinal displacement of the reservoir toward a housing rear upon release of the spring from a compressed state and a depressible button disposed at the housing rear that moves the reservoir in a forward direction toward a housing front to cause compression of said spring. A trigger, disposed in the housing releases the compressed spring and causes rearward movement of the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Advanced Medical Optics
    Inventor: John J. Cogger
  • Patent number: 6514223
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for use in removing liquid from under a corneal flap generated during LASIK surgery. The apparatus comprises a handle, a sickle-shaped end coupled to the handle, the sickle-shaped end having a concave and a convex portion, and a sponge coupled with the concave portion of the sickle-shaped end, extending along the convex portion thereof, and being shaped substantially similarly to the sickle-shaped end. The sickle-shaped end extends from approximately 180° to 270°, or any other desired part of a circle and may have sponge on one or both sides thereof. The radius of the sickle-shaped end is the same or slightly larger than the diameter of a corneal flap generated during LASIK surgery so that when the apparatus is placed adjacent the cornea of a patient about the corneal flap, liquid is wicked from thereunder without requiring any contact with the corneal flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Inventor: Matthew Feinsod
  • Patent number: 6514238
    Abstract: A method of transplanting a graft in the subretinal area of a host eye comprises preparing the graft by harvesting from the donor tissue a population of cells in a manner that maintains the population of cells in the same organization and cellular polarity as is present in normal tissue of that type. The population of cells are of a sheet-like form and are assembled with a relatively thin flexible pliable carrier composed of a non-toxic flexible composition which substantially dissolves at body temperature to form a graft. The graft is sufficiently flexible and pliable to be coiled to form a volute without disturbing the organization and polarity of the cells. The method further comprises coiling the graft to form a volute with the convolutions of the volute free of one another for subsequent uncoiling of the graft substantially to its original sheet-like form. An incision is made in the host eye for insertion of the volute.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Photogenesis, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen E. Hughes
  • Patent number: 6508793
    Abstract: The present invention is an invertible eye drop dispenser device, alone, and in conjunction with an eye drop dispenser container having a threaded neck. The device includes a hollow, circular base portion with a bottom end and a top end. The bottom end has a first set of internal threads and the top end has a second set of internal threads, both being of the same thread gauge, to thread onto a neck of an eye drop dispenser container. The first set of internal threads and the second set of internal threads are inverted relative to one another, so that the device may be threaded with the bottom end threaded to a container or, so that, upon inversion, the device may be threaded with the top end threaded to a container. There is also an eye cup portion attached to the bottom end of the base portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Valley Design, Inc.
    Inventor: John E. Harrold
  • Patent number: 6508779
    Abstract: An adjustable flow rate implantable shunt device for use in treating glaucoma is provided. The device comprises a tubular member having a first sealed end and an open second end which are joined by a wall. The first end is inserted into the anterior portion of the eye for receipt of aqueous humor, and the second end is fastened to the sclera of the eye. The first end of the shunt device is sealed when implanted, so that flow of aqueous humor through the device immediately after implantation is prevented. After a sufficient post-implantation period such that a fibrous capsule has formed around the shunt device, at least one perforation is made along the segment of the wall of the tubular member which is located within the anterior portion of the eye to allow aqueous humor to flow through and out of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Inventor: John Suson
  • Publication number: 20030014021
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of performing ocular surgery, after an anterior capsulotomy has been made, by forming a sealed expanded capsular bag. The method includes sealing the capsular bag with a viscoelastic material to provide a gas tight seal to prevent leakage into the anterior chamber of the eye during the surgical process; expanding the capsular bag by introducing a gas capable of exerting a pressure on the inner surface of the capsular bag wall; inspecting and/or treating the capsular bag with one or several devices and/or agents suitable for performing inspection and/or treatment. The inspection and/or treatment can comprise any of visual inspection, estimation of capsular bag volume; labeling any residual epithelial cells to detect the presence thereof; removing residual epithelial cells, implanting one or more intracapsular implants; injecting a lens forming material for molding a lens in situ; drying the lens capsule; alone or in any combination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2002
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventor: Jorgen Holmen