U.S. patent application number 10/329076 was filed with the patent office on 2003-06-12 for accommodating intraocular lens.
This patent application is currently assigned to Allergan Sales, Inc.. Invention is credited to Ghazizadeh, Massoud, Weinschenk, Joseph I. III.
Application Number | 20030109925 10/329076 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 24080414 |
Filed Date | 2003-06-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030109925 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ghazizadeh, Massoud ; et
al. |
June 12, 2003 |
Accommodating intraocular lens
Abstract
An intraocular lens includes an optic for focusing light and a
movement assembly coupled to the optic. The movement assembly is
adapted to cooperate with the eye to effect accommodating movement
of the optic. The movement assembly includes a plurality of
movement members each with a proximal region coupled to the optic
and an enlarged distal region. The enlarged distal region may be
integral with the proximal region, or may be mechanically coupled
thereto.
Inventors: |
Ghazizadeh, Massoud; (Laguna
Hills, CA) ; Weinschenk, Joseph I. III; (Laguna
Niguel, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
STOUT, UXA, BUYAN & MULLINS LLP
4 VENTURE, SUITE 300
IRVINE
CA
92618
US
|
Assignee: |
Allergan Sales, Inc.
Irvine
CA
|
Family ID: |
24080414 |
Appl. No.: |
10/329076 |
Filed: |
December 23, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10329076 |
Dec 23, 2002 |
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09522326 |
Mar 9, 2000 |
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6551354 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
623/6.34 ;
623/6.37; 623/6.39; 623/6.49 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 2002/1681 20130101;
A61F 2/1694 20130101; A61F 2/1616 20130101; A61F 2/1629 20130101;
A61F 2/1613 20130101; A61F 2/1648 20130101; B29D 11/026
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
623/6.34 ;
623/6.37; 623/6.39; 623/6.49 |
International
Class: |
A61F 002/16 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An intraocular lens comprising: an optic adapted to focus light
to a retina of an eye and having a central optical axis; and a
movement assembly coupled to the optic and adapted to cooperate
with the eye to effect accommodating movement of the optic; the
movement assembly including a movement member having a proximal
region coupled to the optic, the movement member extending radially
outwardly from the optic and including an enlarged distal region
having a contact surface adapted to be in contact with a peripheral
region of a capsular bag of an eye.
2. The intraocular lens of claim 1 wherein the movement assembly is
positioned relative to the optic so that, with the intraocular lens
at rest, the proximal region of the movement member is positioned
at an angle other than 90.degree. relative to the central optical
axis of the optic.
3. The intraocular lens of claim 1 wherein the movement assembly is
adapted and configured to fit within the capsular bag of a human
eye.
4. The intraocular lens of claim 1 wherein the enlarged distal
region is configured so that the contact surface is angled with
respect to the proximal region.
5. The intraocular lens of claim 1 wherein the enlarged distal
region is configured so that the contact surface is substantially
coaxial with the optical axis of the optic.
6. The intraocular lens of claim 5 wherein the contact surface has
an axial length of at least about 1 mm.
7. The intraocular lens of claim 5 wherein the contact surface is
rounded in a radial plane through the optical axis.
8. The intraocular lens of claim 1 wherein the enlarged distal
region includes a plurality of through holes extending through the
contact surface.
9. The intraocular lens of claim 1 wherein the movement assembly
includes a plurality of the movement members circumferentially
spaced apart.
10. The intraocular lens of claim 9 wherein, with the intraocular
lens at rest, the proximal region of each of the plurality of
movement members is positioned at an angle other than 90.degree.
relative to the central axis of the optic.
11. The intraocular lens of claim 9 wherein each of the plurality
of movement members includes a hinge disposed proximally of the
enlarged distal region.
12. The intraocular lens of claim 9 wherein the movement assembly
includes a plurality of spacer regions located between
circumferentially adjacent movement members, the spacer regions
being open or at least partially covered with a structural material
having increased flexibility relative to the movement members.
13. The intraocular lens of claim 1 further comprising a second
optic coupled to the movement assembly.
14. The intraocular lens of claim 1 further comprising a second
optic separate from the optic, and at least one haptic member
coupled to the second optic and the distal region of the movement
member.
15. The intraocular lens of claim 14 wherein, with the intraocular
lens at rest, the optic is anteriorly vaulted and the secondary
optic is posteriorly vaulted.
16. The intraocular lens of claim 1 wherein the proximal region is
joined to the distal region so that one or more sharp edges are
present between the proximal region and the distal region.
17. An intraocular lens comprising: an optic adapted to focus light
to a retina of an eye and having a central optical axis; and a
movement assembly coupled to the optic and adapted to cooperate
with the eye to effect accommodating movement of the optic; the
movement assembly including a plurality of movement members each
having a proximal region coupled to the optic and an enlarged
distal region; and each of the enlarged distal regions having a
contact surface adapted to be in contact with a peripheral region
of a capsular bag of an eye.
18. The intraocular lens of claim 17 wherein the movement assembly
is positioned relative to the optic so that, with the intraocular
lens at rest, the optic is anteriorly vaulted.
19. The intraocular lens of claim 17 wherein the movement assembly
is adapted to fit within the capsular bag of a human eye.
20. The intraocular lens of claim 17 wherein each of the enlarged
distal regions is configured such that the contact surface is
angled with respect to the proximal region.
21. The intraocular lens of claim 17 wherein each of the enlarged
distal regions is configured such that the contact surface thereof
is substantially parallel with the optical axis of the optic.
22. The intraocular lens of claim 17 wherein each of the enlarged
distal regions is configured such that the contact surface thereof
is substantially rounded.
23. The intraocular lens of claim 17 wherein each of the enlarged
distal regions includes a plurality of through holes extending
through the contact surface.
24. The intraocular lens of claim 17 which is deformable to be
passed through a small incision for insertion into an eye.
25. The intraocular lens of claim 17 wherein each of the plurality
of movement members includes a hinge disposed proximally of the
enlarged distal region.
26. The intraocular lens of claim 17 further comprising a second
optic coupled to the movement assembly.
27. The intraocular lens of claim 26 wherein said movement assembly
includes a plurality of haptic members, each haptic member being
coupled to the second optic and to one of the enlarged distal
regions.
28. The intraocular lens of claim 27, wherein the haptic members
are positioned so that, with the intraocular lens at rest, the
secondary optic is posteriorly vaulted.
29. The intraocular lens of claim 17, wherein each of the proximal
regions is joined to one of the distal regions so that one or more
sharp edges are present therebetween.
30. The intraocular lens of claim 17, and wherein the enlarged
distal region of each movement member is formed separately from and
mechanically coupled to the proximal region of that movement
member.
31. The intraocular lens of claim 30, wherein the optic and the
proximal region of each movement member are integrally formed, and
wherein the movement assembly includes a plurality of the movement
members circumferentially spaced apart.
32. The intraocular lens of claim 31, wherein each distal region
comprises an arcuate segment having at least one groove for
receiving and mechanically coupling to a proximal region of a
movement member.
33. The intraocular lens of claim 32, wherein each arcuate segment
includes a pair of grooves each for receiving and mechanically
coupling to a proximal region of a movement member, the intraocular
lens being a two-optic lens.
34. The intraocular lens of claim 30, wherein the enlarged distal
region of each movement member is mechanically coupled to the
proximal region of that movement member using adhesive.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to intraocular lenses (IOLs).
More particularly, the present invention relates to IOLs which are
adapted to provide accommodating movement in the eye.
[0002] The human visual system includes the eyes, the extraocular
muscles which control eye position within the eye socket, the optic
and other nerves that connect the eyes to the brain, and particular
areas of the brain that are in neural communication with the eyes.
The visual system is particularly well adapted for the rapid and
precise extraction of spatial information from a field of view
which is accomplished by analyzing the continuously changing
patterns of radiant flux impinging upon the surfaces of the
eyes.
[0003] Image formation is greatly complicated by the movement of
the eyes within the head, as well as by the movement of both eyes
and the head relative to the external sea of radiant energy. Visual
input is ordinarily sampled by discrete momentary pauses of the
eyes called fixations, interrupted by very rapid ballistic motions
known as saccades which bring the eye from one fixation position to
the next. Smooth movements of the eyes can occur when an object
having a predictable motion is available to be followed.
[0004] Each eye forms an image upon a vast array of light sensitive
photoreceptors of the retina. The cornea is the primary refracting
surface which admits light through the anterior part of the outer
surface of the eye. The iris contains muscles which alter the size
of the entrance port of the eye, or pupil. The crystalline lens has
a variable shape, under the indirect control of the ciliary muscle.
Having a refractive index higher than the surrounding media, the
crystalline lens gives the eye a variable focal length, allowing
accommodation to objects at varying distances from the eye.
[0005] Much of the remainder of the eye is filled with fluids and
materials under pressure which help the eye maintain its shape. For
example, the aqueous humor fills the anterior chamber between the
cornea and the iris, and the vitreous humor fills the majority of
the volume of the eye in the vitreous chamber. The crystalline lens
is contained within a third chamber of the eye, the posterior
chamber, which is positioned between the anterior and vitreous
chambers.
[0006] The human eye is susceptible to a score or more of disorders
and diseases, a number of which attack the crystalline lens. For
example, cataracts mar vision through cloudy or opaque
discoloration of the lens of the eye. Cataracts often result in
partial or complete blindness. If this is the case, the crystalline
lens can be removed and replace with an intraocular lens, or
IOL.
[0007] While restoring vision, conventional IOLs have limited
ability for accommodation (i.e., the focusing on near objects).
This condition is known as presbyopia. To overcome presbyopia of an
IOL, a patient may be prescribed eyeglasses. Alternative attempts
in the art to overcome presbyopia focus on providing IOLs with
accommodation ability. Accommodation may be accomplished by either
changing the shape of the IOL, e.g., to become more convex to focus
on near objects, or by moving the IOL along its optical axis. For
example, a number of these approaches bias an IOL to be located in
the most posterior position of the posterior chamber of the eye
under rest conditions. When near focus is required, the ciliary
muscle contracts, and the IOL moves forwardly, which is known as
positive accommodation. In the absence of ciliary muscle
contraction, the IOL is biased rearwardly to the most posterior
position. While these approaches may provide limited accommodation,
the posterior bias and the configuration of the IOL prevent
sufficient forward axial movement required for full-range
accommodation.
[0008] In view of the foregoing, it would be beneficial in the art
to provide IOLs adapted for sufficient accommodation to reduce
significantly or to overcome the effects of presbyopia.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] New intraocular lenses (IOLs) effective to provide
accommodation have been discovered. The present IOLs provide
effective accommodation using one or more optics. The IOLs of the
invention also inhibit cell growth, particularly epithelial cell
growth, onto the optics of the IOLs. The IOLs of the present
invention are configured, and preferably promote cellular and
fibrous growth to desired regions of the IOL, to increase the
amount of force exerted by the eye against the IOLs to increase the
amount of accommodation achieved. The present IOLs are relatively
straightforward in design, can be produced using conventional IOL
manufacturing procedures and can be inserted or implanted in eyes,
e.g., human eyes, using surgical techniques which are the same as
or analogous to such techniques used with conventional IOLs.
[0010] According to one aspect of the invention, an intraocular
lens is provided which includes an optic for focusing light on a
retina and a movement assembly coupled to the optic. The movement
assembly is adapted to cooperate with the eye to effect
accommodating movement of the optic. The movement assembly includes
a movement member with a proximal region coupled to the optic. The
movement member, and in particular the proximal region of the
movement member, extends radially outwardly from the optic and
includes an enlarged distal region with a contact surface adapted
to be in contact with a peripheral region of a capsular bag of an
eye.
[0011] One of the advantages of the present invention is that the
IOL is held within, preferably attached to, the capsular bag. More
specifically, the contact surface of the enlarged distal region may
have an axial length of at least about 1 mm. Therefore, depending
upon the radius of the IOL, the contact surface has a relatively
large surface area with which to contact the capsular bag.
[0012] The contact of the IOL with the capsular bag is further
enhanced by disposing the enlarged distal region in an angled
manner relative to the proximal region of the member. Preferably,
the contact surface is substantially parallel to the optical axis
of the IOL. The relatively large contact surface is effective in
maintaining the position of the IOL particularly directly following
implantation and, on a long term basis, is effective in increasing
the amount of accommodation provided by the IOL.
[0013] The relatively large surface area of the contact surface
also promotes cellular and fibrous growth to or onto this region of
the IOL, which further holds and retains the IOL within the
capsular bag and increases the amount of force that may be exerted
through the capsular bag onto the IOL to provide accommodation, as
desired. Post-operative cellular and fibrous growth of the interior
of the capsular bag to the enlarged distal region of the movement
assembly may, and preferably does, enable the IOLs of the present
invention to function substantially analogous to a natural
crystalline lens.
[0014] To further facilitate this post-operative cellular growth,
the enlarged distal region may include a plurality of depressions
or through holes. Each of the through holes preferably provides
increased growth of cells and fibrin onto the enlarged distal
region or regions of the IOL. Accordingly, the IOL is very
effectively attachable, preferably substantially permanently
attachable, to the capsular bag. This attachment of the IOL to the
capsular bag facilitates the axial movement of the IOL in direct
response to changes in the capsular bag, therefore providing
effective accommodation, analogous to a natural crystalline
lens.
[0015] The IOLs of the present invention preferably inhibit
unwanted posterior capsule opacification (PCO) of the optic. Thus,
the distal region or regions of the movement assembly preferably is
or are joined to the proximal region or regions so that one or more
sharp edges, that is preferably edges which occur at
discontinuities (rather than at smooth, continuous transitions)
when viewed by the is naked human eye, are present between the
joined proximal and distal regions. Such sharp edges have been
found to advantageously inhibit PCO by inhibiting the growth of
cells, for example, epithelial cells, from the capsular bag onto
the optic of the present IOLs.
[0016] To further enhance the accommodating movement of the present
IOLs in cooperation with the eye, the movement assembly preferably
is positioned relative to the optic so that, with the IOL at rest,
that is with no forces acting on the IOL to effect accommodation,
the proximal region of the movement member is positioned at an
angle other than 90.degree. relative to the central optical axis of
the optic. In a very useful embodiment, the optic, in the rest
position as noted above, is anteriorly vaulted. Also, the movement
member or members preferably include a hinge, or a plurality of
hinges, located on the proximal region or regions of the movement
members, more preferably closer to the optic than to the distal
region or regions. Each of these features, either individually or
any combination thereof, is effective to further facilitate the
movement of the optic to provide the desired amount of
accommodation.
[0017] According to another aspect of the invention, the movement
assembly includes a plurality of movement members, preferably
spaced apart, for example, radially or circumferentially spaced
apart, from each other. Each movement member includes a proximal
region coupled to the optic and an enlarged distal region, for
example, as described elsewhere herein. The enlarged distal regions
each have a contact surface adapted to be in contact with a
peripheral region of a capsular bag of an eye. In addition, the
enlarged distal regions may be configured such that the contact
surfaces are substantially coaxial with the optical axis of the
optic.
[0018] A plurality of spacer or cut-out regions preferably are
located between radially or circumferentially adjacent movement
members. Such cut-out regions are effective to prevent buckling of
the IOL during accommodating movement in the eye. Such spacers or
cut-out regions may be open. In one useful embodiment each of such
regions is at least partially covered with or by a structural
material having increased flexibility relative to the movement
members. Thus, the IOL is prevented from buckling while, at the
same time the structural material is effective to at least inhibit
cell growth from the capsular bag onto the optic. This structural
material may have the same chemical make-up as the proximal regions
of the movement members and have a reduced thickness relative to
the proximal regions to provide the increased flexibility.
[0019] Another advantage of the present IOLs is that a second optic
may be provided. According to this multi-optic embodiment, the
secondary optic may be coupled to the enlarged distal region or
regions with one or more secondary movement members.
[0020] In one useful embodiment, the enlarged distal region or
regions of the movement member or members are provided with a
groove or grooves. The secondary movement member or members are
adapted to fit into the groove or grooves, thereby holding the
second optic in position in the eye. Alternately, the second optic
and secondary movement members may be formed integrally with the
optic/movement assembly combination.
[0021] In a further useful embodiment of present invention, the
enlarged distal region or regions of the movement member or members
are mechanically coupled to the perspective proximal regions. In
one particular embodiment, an intraocular lens comprises a
plurality of arcuate segments mechanically coupled (e.g., adhered)
to an integrally formed optic and radially outward movement
members. The arcuate segments may have one or more grooves for
receiving one or more movement members, thus forming either a
one-optic or a two-optic system.
[0022] The second optic preferably has an optical power, or even
substantially no optical power. The combination of the optic and
second optic together preferably provides the optical power
required or desired by the patient in whose eye the IOL is to be
implanted. For example, the second optic can have a plano or
substantially plano optical power or a relatively highly negative
optical power, for example, between about -30 diopters to about -10
diopters, as desired. The second optic preferably is located
posterior of the optic. In one useful embodiment, the second optic,
in the eye, is substantially maintained in contact with the inner
posterior wall of the capsular bag. This feature inhibits or
reduces the risk of cell growth or migration from the capsular bag
into the second optic. The second optic in such a posterior
position often has only a relatively restricted, if any, amount of
axial movement. Such a posterior second optic preferably is
posteriorly vaulted, with the IOL in the rest position as described
elsewhere herein, to facilitate maintaining the posterior face of
the second optic in contact with the inner posterior face of the
capsular bag.
[0023] Any and all of the features described herein and
combinations of such features are included within the scope of the
present invention provided that the features of any such
combination are not mutually inconsistent.
[0024] Additional aspects, features, and advantages of the present
invention are set forth in the following description and claims,
particularly when considered in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings in which like parts bear like reference numbers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] FIG. 1 is a perspective of an intraocular lens (IOL)
according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention,
particularly illustrating an anterior side of the IOL.
[0026] FIG. 2 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of an eye in
which an IOL configured in accordance with the present invention
has been implanted.
[0027] FIG. 3 is a plan view of an intraocular lens (IOL) of the
invention, particularly illustrating a posterior side of the
IOL.
[0028] FIG. 4 is a plan view of an alternate embodiment of an
intraocular lens (IOL) of the invention, illustrating the use of
flexible structural material between movement members.
[0029] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a two-lens system and a
circumferential groove for receiving and retaining a posterior
lens.
[0030] FIG. 6 is a plan view of and alternative embodiment of an
intraocular lens (IOL) of the invention constructed of mechanically
coupled lens and peripheral regions.
[0031] FIG. 7A is a plan view of one segment of a peripheral region
of the IOL of FIG. 6.
[0032] FIG. 7B is an elevational view of the peripheral region
segment of FIG. 7A.
[0033] FIG. 7C is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 7B.
[0034] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a ring formed during the
process of making the peripheral region of the IOL of FIG. 6.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0035] Referring to the drawings in more detail, an intraocular
lens (IOL) 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention is illustrated in FIG. 1. Exemplary IOL 10 includes an
optic 12 and a movement assembly 14 coupled to the optic 12. The
optic 12, which has an optical axis O, is adapted to focus light on
a retina of an eye. The movement assembly 14 of exemplary IOL 10 is
adapted to cooperate with an eye to effect accommodating movement
of the optic 12, which is discussed in detail below.
[0036] Exemplary movement assembly 14 includes a member 16 with a
proximal region 18 and an enlarged distal region 20. The terms
"proximal" and "distal" are used herein with respect to the
distance from the optical axis O. The proximal region 18 is coupled
to the optic 12 at a periphery 22 of the optic. The member 16
extends radially outwardly from the optic 12 and the proximal
region 18 to the enlarged distal region 20. With additional
reference to FIG. 2, the enlarged distal region 20 has a contact
surface 24 which is adapted to be in contact with a peripheral
region 26 of a capsular bag 28 of an eye 30.
[0037] Briefly describing the anatomy of the eye 30 with reference
to FIG. 2, the capsular bag 28 is connected to a ciliary muscle 32
by suspensory ligaments or zonules 34. The ciliary muscle 32 is the
prime mover in accommodation, i.e., in adjusting the eye 30 to
focus on near objects. The zonules 34 retain the lens in position
and are relaxed by the contraction of the ciliary muscle 32,
thereby allowing a natural crystalline lens to become more
convex.
[0038] Applying this anatomy to the present invention, exemplary
IOL 10 is configured to facilitate movement of the optic 12 in
response to the action of the ciliary muscle 32 and the zonules 34.
When near vision is needed, the ciliary muscle 32 contracts, and
the zonules 34 relax and reduce the equatorial diameter of the
capsular bag 28, thereby moving the optic 12 anteriorly as
indicated by arrow A in FIG. 2. This anterior movement of the optic
12 increases or amplifies the amount of positive (i.e., near)
accommodation of the optic 12. Conversely, when the ciliary muscle
32 relaxes, the zonules 34 constrict and increase the equatorial
diameter of the capsular bag 28, thus moving the optic posteriorly
as indicated by arrow P.
[0039] For human implantation, exemplary IOL 10 may be configured
such that the amount of positive or near accommodation is
preferably at least about 1 diopter and may range up to 3.5
diopters or more. Further, exemplary IOL 10 may be configured to
provide at least about 1.5 mm or 2 mm of axial movement anteriorly
in the eye with about a reduction of about 1 mm in the equatorial
diameter of the capsular bag 28 caused by the ciliary muscle 32 and
the zonules 34.
[0040] As mentioned, the enlarged distal region 20 of the movement
assembly 14 is adapted to be in contact with the peripheral region
26 of the capsular bag 28. In accordance with the invention, the
contact surface 24 of the enlarged distal region 20 has a
relatively large surface area. In other words, it is preferable to
maximize the surface area of the contact surface 24 while
maintaining the ability of the IOL 10 to be received within the
capsular bag 28. By maximizing the surface area with which the IOL
10 contacts the capsular bag 28, the IOL 10 of the present
invention effectively responds to changes in force exerted by the
capsular bag 26 on the lens 10, thereby maximizing axial movement
of the optic 12. In addition to the advantage of maximizing axial
movement, the contact surface 24 of the enlarged distal region 20
also provides a large surface area to be subject to cellular and
fibrous growth, which will be discussed in more detail below.
[0041] According to the exemplary embodiment of the invention shown
in FIG. 1, the enlarged distal region 20 may be described as a
plurality of peripheral arcuate bands with the contact surface 24
comprising the distal surface of each band. Each of the arcuate
bands of the enlarged distal region 20 extends axially and has a
length l, which will be discussed in more detail below. Each of the
enlarged distal regions 20 may extend axially in a substantially
parallel relationship with the optical axis O or, alternatively,
may be arcuate in the axial direction such that the length l is an
arc length .lambda. (both symbols illustrated in FIG. 1 on one of
the contact surfaces 24).
[0042] Regarding exemplary IOL 10 in more detail, the movement
assembly 14 may include a plurality of cut-out regions 36 (e.g.,
four), thereby defining a corresponding plurality of spokes or
haptic members 38. Each of the haptic members 38 includes a
respective portion of the enlarged distal region 20 of the member
16 of the assembly 14. The cut-out regions 36 provide spatial
relief when the ciliary muscle 32 contracts, thereby preventing
buckling of the optic 12 during accommodation. To prevent posterior
capsule opacification (PCO), each of the cut-out regions 36 may be
filled with the same material from which the optic 12 is made.
[0043] Regarding the haptic members 38 in more detail, the haptic
members 38 as shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 may be
substantially flat in configuration, flaring outwardly like pieces
of a pie. The haptic members 38 desirably lie in planes angled with
respect to the optical axis O to promote anterior movement, as
further explained below. As mentioned, it is preferable to include
four haptic members 38, such that each haptic member 38 may extend
through nearly 90.degree., which extent is dependent upon the size
of the cut-out regions 36.
[0044] To further enhance axial movement and accommodation, the
haptic members 38 of exemplary movement assembly 14 may be
angulated such that the optic 12 is positioned anterior to
respective intersections 40 of the haptic members 38 and the
enlarged distal regions 20, which is particularly shown in FIG. 2.
For the purposes of this description, this angled configuration of
the haptic members 38 is called "anterior angulation." By
angulating the haptic members 38 in this anterior manner, the
movement assembly 14 is biased to move the optic 12 toward the
anterior of the eye 30 when the ciliary muscle 32 contracts.
Furthermore, the anterior angulation of the haptic members 38
ensures that the optic 12 moves in the anterior direction when the
ciliary muscle 32 contracts.
[0045] With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 and additional
reference to FIG. 3, accommodation may be further enhanced by
providing each of the haptic members 38 with a groove 41 formed in
a posterior side thereof. The grooves 41 define an area of reduced
thickness of each haptic member 38, thereby biasing the haptic
members 38 to flex or pivot at the grooves 41. With such a
construction, the grooves 41 accommodate flexing of the haptic
members 38 in the anterior direction. As an alternative to the
linear embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the grooves 41 may be arcuate
and concentric with respective contact surfaces 24.
[0046] Axial movement may be further facilitated by providing a
hinge 42 at the interior intersection 40 of each haptic member 38
with the respective portion of the enlarged distal region 20. The
hinges 42 enhance the pivoting of the haptic members 38 relative to
the enlarged distal region 20 when the ciliary muscle 32 contracts.
In addition, each hinge 42 may be configured as a discontinuity,
preferably a sharp edge, to retard or prevent cellular growth onto
the haptic members 38 and the optic 12, thereby preventing PCO.
[0047] As mentioned above, the contact surface 24 of the enlarged
distal region 20 has a large surface area, thereby providing a
large surface area subject to cellular and fibrous growth. For
example, each of the contact surfaces 24 of the enlarged distal
region 20 may have an axial length l (or arcuate span .lambda.) of
at least about 1 mm and preferably on the order of about 2 mm.
Therefore, depending upon the radius of the IOL 10, each of the
contact surfaces 24 may have a surface area of the product of the
axial length l and the arc length a.
[0048] Contact of the IOL 10 with the capsular bag 28 is further
enhanced by disposing the enlarged distal region 20 in a
perpendicular manner to the haptic members 38. Accordingly, the
contact surface 24 is substantially parallel to the optical axis 10
of the IOL 10. The axial disposition of the enlarged contact
surface 24 within the capsular bag 28 increases the retention of
the IOL 10 therewithin, particularly immediately following
implantation.
[0049] Post-operative cellular and fibrous growth of the interior
of the capsular bag 28 to the enlarged distal region 20 of the
movement assembly 14 enables the IOL 10 of the present invention to
essentially fully function like a natural crystalline lens. The
cellular and fibrous growth is facilitated by the close proximity
of the contact surface 24 with the capsular bag 28.
[0050] To further facilitate this growth, the enlarged distal
region 20 may include a plurality of depressions or holes 44. Each
of the holes 44 provides a purchase on which cells and fibrin may
grow. It is anticipated that this cellular and fibrous growth may
take place within the first few weeks after the IOL 10 is implanted
in an eye. Accordingly, the IOL 10 is permanently attachable to the
capsular bag 28. This vigorous attachment of the IOL 10 to the
capsular bag 28 ensures that the IOL 10 moves axially in direct
response to changes in the capsular bag 28, therefore accommodating
near vision, analogous to that of a natural crystalline lens.
[0051] With continued reference to FIGS. 2 and 3 and additional
reference to FIG. 4, the IOL 10 of the present invention may be
configured as a two-optic IOL. More specifically, exemplary IOL 10
may include a secondary optic 46 coupled to a secondary member 48.
Analogous to member 16 described above, the secondary member 48 may
include a proximal region coupled to the secondary optic 46 and a
distal region, which distal region is either the enlarged distal
region 20 described above, or a separate enlarged distal region, as
indicated in the region 49. Further, the plurality of cut-out
regions 36 may extend through the secondary member 48, thereby
defining a plurality of secondary haptic members 50.
[0052] The secondary member 48 with secondary optic 46 may be
integral with the enlarged distal region 20 or, alternatively, may
be mechanically attached to the enlarged distal region 20 or member
16 to function as an auxiliary IOL. In one useful embodiment, the
enlarged distal region 20 of the first movement member 10 is
provided with a groove or channel (not shown). The secondary
movement member 48 is adapted to fit into the groove, thereby
holding the second optic 46 in position in the eye.
[0053] More specifically, the distal regions 49 of the secondary
haptic members 50 may be adapted to attach to or be retained by the
movement assembly 14 of the IOL 10. For example, a groove may be
formed either on a posterior side of member 16 or, alternatively,
on an interior side of the enlarged distal region 24. The latter
type of groove is seen at 52 in FIG. 5. The groove 52 is sized so
that ends of the distal regions 49 of the secondary haptic members
50 are receivable therein. The distal regions 49 may be permanently
received within the groove 52 such as with adhesive or,
alternatively, releasably received so that the secondary optic 46
may be replaced if needed or desired.
[0054] Analogous to the haptic members 38 described above,
secondary haptic members 50 are angulated such that the secondary
optic 46 is positioned posterior to respective intersections of the
haptic members and the enlarged distal regions 20, which is
particularly shown in FIG. 2. For the purposes of this description,
this angled configuration of the secondary haptic members 50 will
be called "posterior angulation." By angulating the secondary
haptic members 50 in this anterior manner, the movement assembly 14
is biased to move the secondary optic 46 toward the posterior of
the eye 30 when the ciliary muscle 32 contracts.
[0055] In one useful embodiment each of the plurality of cut-out
regions 36 in the secondary member 48 is at least partially filled
with or covered by a structural material 51 having increased
flexibility relative to the movement member. Thus, the second IOL
is prevented from buckling while, at the same time the structural
material 51 is effective to at least inhibit cell growth from the
capsular bag onto the optic. This structural material 51 may have
the same chemical make-up as the proximal regions of the movement
members and have a reduced thickness relative to the proximal
regions to provide the increased flexibility. In particular, the
cut-out regions 36 may be filled with the same material from which
the optic 46 is made.
[0056] FIG. 6 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the present
invention in which an intraocular lens (IOL) 60 comprises an inner
lens portion mechanically coupled to an outer peripheral region 62.
In FIG. 6, the inner lens portion is shown in phantom and includes
an optic 64 and a plurality of movement members 66 extending
radially outwardly therefrom. As with the earlier embodiments,
there are four such movement members 66 extending radially outward
evenly about the optic 64, and each defining an included angle of
nearly 90.degree..
[0057] As seen in FIGS. 6 and 7A-C, the outer peripheral region 62
comprises a plurality of individual arcuate segments 62a-d disposed
around the periphery of the IOL and each mechanically coupled to a
movement member 66. In the illustrated embodiment, the movement
member 66 are substantially pie-shaped and each of the arcuate
segments 62 has a length that matches the outer circumferential arc
of the respectively coupled movement member. Desirably, the
included angle of each movement member 66 and coupled peripheral
segment 62 is less than 90.degree. so that cut-outs or spacer
regions 68 are defined therebetween. In addition, the arc of the
each segment 62 is desirably centered at the optical axis of the
optic 64. As previously described, the spacer regions 68 each
extend from the peripheral region 62 to the optic 64, and terminate
at a radially inner curved end.
[0058] Various dimensions of each segment 62 are illustrated in the
drawings and exemplary values provided herein. In a preferred
embodiment, each of the arcuate segments 62 defines an included
angle .alpha. of between 70-85.degree., and more particularly about
78.degree.. Consequently, the angle .beta. defined between the
segments is between about 5-2020 , and more particularly about
12.degree.. The exemplary embodiment has an outer radius r.sub.o of
about 5.27 mm (0.2075 inches) and an inner radius r.sub.i of about
4.76 mm (0.187 inches).
[0059] With reference particularly to FIGS. 7B and 7C, each of the
arcuate segments 62 includes a rounded outer surface 70 and a pair
of grooves 72a and 72b defined on the inner surface. Each groove 72
is defined by a side wall 74, and a peripheral wall 76. The side
walls 74 of the two grooves diverge but generally face each other,
and the peripheral walls 76 are angled with respect one another and
meet at an apex 78, desirably at the axial midplane of the segment
62.
[0060] Again, particular dimensions are shown in the drawings, with
certain exemplary values provided herein. In particular, the axial
thickness t of each arcuate segment 62 is about 1.02 mm (0.04
inches), while the outer peripheral radius r.sub.p is desirably
about the same as the thickness t, namely about 1.02 mm (0.04
inches). The overall radial thickness A of each segment 62 is about
0.51 mm (0.02 inches), while the radial depth B of each of the
grooves 72 is about 0.23 mm (0.009 inches). The axial width w of
the two grooves 72 together is about 0.51 mm (0.02 inches), and the
peripheral surface 76 of each groove defines an angle .gamma. of
about 10.degree. at any one point with respect to a plane tangent
to the entire arcuate segment 62 at that point. Finally, the
included angle .theta. defined by the divergent side walls 74 of
the two grooves 72 is about 20.degree..
[0061] Because there are two grooves 72a,b, each arcuate segment 62
receives movement members 66 extending outward from two different
optics 64. More particularly, FIG. 7C illustrates two movement
members 66a and 66b disposed, respectively, within the grooves 72a
and 72b and diverging at the included angle .theta. of the side
walls 74. In other words, one of the optics is anteriorly vaulted
and the other optic is posteriorly vaulted. The two movement
members 66a,b are desirably sized to precisely fit within grooves
72a,b and contact at juxtaposed corners coincident with the apex
78. The resulting two-optic system can be customized to suit a wide
variety of patient needs.
[0062] In a preferred manufacturing process, the segments 62a-d are
formed from a circular ring 80 as seen in FIG. 8. In particular,
the ring 80 is molded using conventional means, and the segments 62
are then machined therefrom. Subsequently, the segments 62 are
mechanically coupled to the respective movement members 66 using a
suitable adhesive, or the like. Those of skill in the art will
understand that there are various means other than adhesives for
attaching movement members to peripheral structures. As a result,
the IOL 60 has the benefit of an enlarged outer peripheral region
62 which helps distribute forces imparted by the ciliary muscles to
the movement members 66, and thereafter to the optic 64. Such a
force distribution system helps improve accommodation of the IOL
60.
[0063] The optics 12 and 46 may be constructed of rigid
biocompatible materials such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) or
deformable materials such as silicone polymeric materials, acrylic
polymeric materials, hydrogel polymeric materials, and the like.
The deformable materials allow the IOL 10 to be rolled or folded
for insertion through a small incision into the eye. Although the
optic 12 as shown is a refractive lens body, the present IOLs may
include a diffractive lens body, and such embodiment is included
within the scope of the present invention.
[0064] The optic 12 may be either integral with or mechanically
coupled to the member 16. The member 16 may be constructed of the
same or different biocompatible materials as the optic 12, and is
preferably made of polymeric materials such as polypropylene,
silicone polymeric materials, acrylic polymeric materials, and the
like. The movement assembly 14 is preferably deformable in much the
same manner as the optic 12 to facilitate the passage of the IOL 10
through a small incision into the eye. The material or materials of
construction from which the movement assembly 14 is made are chosen
to provide the assembly with the desired mechanical properties,
e.g., strength and deformability, to meet the needs of the
particular application involved.
[0065] The IOL 10 may be inserted into the capsular bag 28 of a
mammalian eye using conventional equipment and techniques, for
example, after the natural crystalline lens is removed using a
phaceomulsification technique. The IOL 10 is preferably rolled or
folded prior to insertion into the eye so as to fit through a small
incision, for example, on the order of about 3.2 mm. After
insertion, the IOL 10 may be positioned in the eye as shown in FIG.
2.
[0066] If the IOL 10 is to be implanted in an adult human eye, the
optic 12 preferably has a diameter in the range of about 3.5 mm to
about 7 mm and, more preferably, in the range of about 5 mm to
about 6 mm. Further, the IOL 10 may have an overall diameter, with
the movement assembly 14 in an unstressed condition, of about 8 mm
to about 11 mm or 12 mm. Additionally, the optic 12 preferably has
a far-vision correction power for infinity in an accommodated
state.
[0067] The present invention provides accommodating IOLs and
methods for using such IOLs. The IOLs of the invention are
configured to reduce the stretching of the capsular bag, to
maintain the elasticity and/or integrity of the capsular bag, to
enhance the effectiveness of the eye, particularly the function of
the ciliary muscle and the zonules. The present IOLs promote the
secure retention within the capsular bag by providing an enlarged
contact surface to which cells and fibrin may grow. In addition,
the present IOLs inhibit PCO. These benefits are obtained with IOLs
which are streamlined in construction and relatively easy to
manufacture and insert into the eye and which effectively provide
accommodation for long-term use.
[0068] While the present invention has been described with respect
to various specific examples and embodiments, it is to be
understood that the invention is not limited thereto and that it
can be variously practiced within the scope of the following
claims.
* * * * *