U.S. patent application number 13/479178 was filed with the patent office on 2012-09-13 for intraocular lens cell migration inhibition system.
This patent application is currently assigned to InSight Innovations, LLC. Invention is credited to Kevin H. Cuevas.
Application Number | 20120232649 13/479178 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47629899 |
Filed Date | 2012-09-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120232649 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Cuevas; Kevin H. |
September 13, 2012 |
Intraocular Lens Cell Migration Inhibition System
Abstract
Generally, an intraocular implant and methods for treating an
ocular condition. In particular, an intraocular implant which
implanted between an intraocular lens and the surface of the
posterior capsule of the eye inhibits migration of residual lens
epithelial cells after cataract surgery by providing structural
barriers to reduce posterior capsule opacification of the eye.
Inventors: |
Cuevas; Kevin H.; (Denver,
CO) |
Assignee: |
InSight Innovations, LLC
|
Family ID: |
47629899 |
Appl. No.: |
13/479178 |
Filed: |
May 23, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13136515 |
Aug 2, 2011 |
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13479178 |
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12998652 |
May 13, 2011 |
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PCT/US2009/006195 |
Nov 19, 2009 |
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13136515 |
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61270567 |
Jul 10, 2009 |
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61199674 |
Nov 20, 2008 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
623/6.16 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 2/161 20150401;
A61F 2/15 20150401; A61F 9/0017 20130101; A61F 2/0077 20130101;
A61F 2/16 20130101; A61L 2430/16 20130101; A61F 2/16015 20150401;
A61F 2002/1681 20130101; A61F 2002/009 20130101; A61L 27/3869
20130101; A61F 2/1624 20130101; A61L 27/58 20130101; A61F 2/14
20130101; A61F 2002/0081 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
623/6.16 |
International
Class: |
A61F 2/16 20060101
A61F002/16 |
Claims
1. An intraocular implant, comprising: a) an intraocular lens
comprising an intraocular lens optic and an intraocular lens
haptic; and b) patterned surface elements coupled to at least a
part of said intraocular lens while maintaining a line of sight
through said intraocular lens optic, said patterned surface
elements having dimensional relations adapted to inhibit migration
of cells between said intraocular lens and said surface of said
posterior capsule of said eye.
2. The intraocular implant of claim 1, wherein said patterned
surface elements are selected from the group consisting of: a
plurality of raised elements which project outwardly from said
surface of said intraocular lens in spaced apart relation, said
plurality of raised elements bounded by a corresponding plurality
of channels, and a plurality of recessed elements which project
inwardly from said surface of said intraocular lens in spaced apart
relation, said plurality of recessed elements bounded by a
corresponding plurality of spacer elements.
3. The intraocular implant of claim 2, wherein said plurality of
raised surface elements and said plurality of recessed elements
coupled to said intraocular lens in spaced apart relation
correspondingly dispose said plurality of channel elements or said
plurality of spacer elements in a non-linear path inwardly
approaching a center of said intraocular lens.
4. The intraocular implant of claim 3, wherein each of said
plurality of raised elements and each of said plurality of channel
elements or each of said plurality of recessed elements and each of
said plurality of spacer elements have dimensions sufficiently less
than each one of said cells.
5. The intraocular implant of claim 4, wherein said cells comprise
lens epithelial cells.
6. The intraocular implant of claim 2, wherein each of said
plurality of channels has a channel width in a range of about 100
nanometers and about 2 micrometers.
7. The intraocular implant of claim 2, wherein each of said
plurality of channel elements has a channel width selected from the
group consisting of 100 nanometers and about 300 nanometers, about
200 nanometers and about 400 nanometers, about 300 nanometers and
about 500 nanometers, about 400 nanometers and about 600
nanometers, about 500 nanometers and about 700 nanometers, about
600 nanometers and about 800 nanometers, about 700 nanometers and
about 900 nanometers about 800 nanometers and about 1 micrometer,
about 900 nanometers and about 1.1 micrometer, 1 micrometer an
about 1.2 micrometer, 1.1 micrometer and about 1.3 micrometer, 1.2
micrometer and about 1.4 micrometer, 1.3 micrometer and about 1.5
micrometers, 1.4 micrometer and about 1.6 micrometer, 1.5
micrometer and about 1.7 micrometer, 1.6 micrometer and about 1.8
micrometer, 1.7 micrometer and about 1.9 micrometer, and about 1.8
micrometer and about 2 micrometer, or combinations thereof.
8. The intraocular implant of claim 2, wherein each of said
plurality of raised elements has a top surface having a lesser
dimension in a range of about 500 nanometers and about 4
micrometers.
9. The intraocular implant of claim 2, wherein said lesser
dimension is selected from the group consisting of about 400
nanometers and about 1 micrometer, about 500 nanometers and about
1.5 micrometer, 1 micrometer an about 2.0 micrometer, 1.5
micrometer and about 2.5 micrometer, 2.0 micrometer and about 3.0
micrometer, 2.5 micrometer and about 3.5 micrometers, 3.0
micrometer and about 4.0 micrometer, and 3.5 micrometer and about
4.0 micrometer, or combinations thereof.
10. The intraocular implant of claim 2, wherein each of said
plurality of raised elements has a sidewall having a sidewall
height in a range of about 400 nanometers and about 2
micrometers.
11. The intraocular implant of claim 2, wherein said sidewall
height is selected from the group consisting of: about 400
nanometers and about 600 nanometers, about 500 nanometers and about
700 nanometers, about 600 nanometers and about 800 nanometers,
about 700 nanometers and about 900 nanometers about 800 nanometers
and about 1 micrometer, about 900 nanometers and about 1.1
micrometer, 1 micrometer an about 1.2 micrometer, 1.1 micrometer
and about 1.3 micrometer, 1.2 micrometer and about 1.4 micrometer,
1.3 micrometer and about 1.5 micrometers, 1.4 micrometer and about
1.6 micrometer, 1.5 micrometer and about 1.7 micrometer, 1.6
micrometer and about 1.8 micrometer, 1.7 micrometer and about 1.9
micrometer, and about 1.8 micrometer and about 2 micrometer, or
combinations thereof.
12. The intraocular implant of claim 2, wherein said plurality of
raised elements comprise a plurality of raised bars generally
disposed in parallel spaced apart relation to provide said
plurality of channels, each of said plurality of bars having a bar
width in the range of about 1 micrometer and about 2 micrometers
and said sidewall height in a range of about 1 micrometer and about
2 micrometers, each of said plurality of channels having a channel
width in a range of about 500 nanometers and about 1 micrometer,
said plurality of bars having unequal length disposed to form a
diamond pattern on said intraocular lens, said diamond pattern
having a diamond length in the range of a about 15 micrometers and
about 25 micrometers and a diamond width in a range of about 10
micrometers and about 15 micrometers, or combinations thereof.
13. The intraocular implant of claim 2, wherein said plurality of
raised elements comprise a plurality of raised bars generally
disposed in parallel spaced apart herringbone relation, each of
said plurality of bars having a width in a range of about 1
micrometer and about 3 micrometer, and a length in a range of about
5 micrometer and about 15 micrometer, and a height in a range of
about 1 micrometer and about 2 micrometer.
14. The intraocular implant of claim 2, wherein said plurality of
raised elements comprise: a) a plurality of raised bars generally
disposed in parallel spaced apart relation, each of said plurality
of raised bars of having substantially equal length disposed
between a first end and a second end, said first ends and said
second ends substantially aligned; and b) at least one raised bar
disposed in generally parallel perpendicular opposed relation to
aligned said first ends or said second ends, each of said bars
having a width in a range of about 1 micrometer and about 3
micrometer and a length in a range of about 5 micrometer and about
15 micrometer and a height in a range of about 1 micrometer and
about 2 micrometers.
15. The intraocular implant of claim 2, wherein said plurality of
raised elements comprise a plurality of hexagonal prisms disposed
on said intraocular lens in regular spaced apart tessellation to
provide said top surface in the form of a regular hexagon having a
width between a pair of sides in a range of about 400 nanometers
and about 600 nanometers, and a sidewall height in a range of about
1 micrometer and about 2 micrometers, and a channel width between
each pair of sidewalls of about 100 nanometers and about 200
nanometers.
16. The intraocular implant of claim 2, wherein said plurality of
raised elements comprise a plurality of cylinders disposed on said
back surface of said intraocular implant generally in columns and
rows relation to provide said top surface in generally a circular
surface having a diameter in a range of about 400 nanometers and
about 600 nanometers and a sidewall height in a range of about 1
micrometer and about 2 micrometers, said plurality of cylinders
established on centers in a range of about 600 nanometers and about
1 micrometer which establishes said channel width between each pair
of sidewalls of about 200 nanometers and about 400 nanometers.
17. The intraocular implant of claim 2, wherein each of said
plurality of spacer elements has a spacer width in a range of about
100 nanometers and about 2 micrometers.
18. The intraocular implant of claim 17, wherein each of said
plurality of spacer elements has a width selected from the group
consisting of: 100 nanometers and about 300 nanometers, about 200
nanometers and about 400 nanometers, about 300 nanometers and about
500 nanometers, about 400 nanometers and about 600 nanometers,
about 500 nanometers and about 700 nanometers, about 600 nanometers
and about 800 nanometers, about 700 nanometers and about 900
nanometers about 800 nanometers and about 1 micrometer, about 900
nanometers and about 1.1 micrometer, 1 micrometer an about 1.2
micrometer, 1.1 micrometer and about 1.3 micrometer, 1.2 micrometer
and about 1.4 micrometer, 1.3 micrometer and about 1.5 micrometers,
1.4 micrometer and about 1.6 micrometer, 1.5 micrometer and about
1.7 micrometer, 1.6 micrometer and about 1.8 micrometer, 1.7
micrometer and about 1.9 micrometer, and about 1.8 micrometer and
about 2 micrometer, or combinations thereof.
19. The intraocular implant of claim 17, wherein each of said
plurality of recessed elements has a bottom surface having a lesser
dimension in a range of about 500 nanometers and about 4
micrometers.
20. The intraocular implant of claim 19, wherein said lesser
dimension is selected from the group consisting of: about 400
nanometers and about 1 micrometer, about 500 nanometers and about
1.5 micrometer, 1 micrometer an about 2.0 micrometer, 1.5
micrometer and about 2.5 micrometer, 2.0 micrometer and about 3.0
micrometer, 2.5 micrometer and about 3.5 micrometers, 3.0
micrometer and about 4.0 micrometer, and 3.5 micrometer and about
4.0 micrometer, or combinations thereof.
21. The intraocular implant of claim 19, wherein each of said
plurality of recessed elements has a sidewall having a sidewall
height between said surface of said biocompatible flexible membrane
and said bottom surface of each of said plurality of recessed
elements in a range of about 400 nanometers and about 2
micrometers.
22. The intraocular implant of claim 21, wherein said sidewall
height is selected from the group consisting of about 400
nanometers and about 600 nanometers, about 500 nanometers and about
700 nanometers, about 600 nanometers and about 800 nanometers,
about 700 nanometers and about 900 nanometers about 800 nanometers
and about 1 micrometer, about 900 nanometers and about 1.1
micrometer, 1 micrometer an about 1.2 micrometer, 1.1 micrometer
and about 1.3 micrometer, 1.2 micrometer and about 1.4 micrometer,
1.3 micrometer and about 1.5 micrometers, 1.4 micrometer and about
1.6 micrometer, 1.5 micrometer and about 1.7 micrometer, 1.6
micrometer and about 1.8 micrometer, 1.7 micrometer and about 1.9
micrometer, and about 1.8 micrometer and about 2 micrometer, or
combinations thereof.
23. The intraocular implant of claim 21, wherein said plurality of
recessed elements comprise a plurality of recessed bars generally
disposed in parallel spaced apart relation to provide said
plurality of spacers, each of said plurality of bars having a bar
width in the range of about 1 micrometer and about 2 micrometers
and said sidewall height in a range of about 1 micrometer and about
2 micrometers, each of said plurality of spacers having a spacer
width in a range of about 500 nanometers and about 1 micrometer,
said plurality of bars having unequal length disposed to form a
diamond pattern on said surface of said biocompatible flexible
membrane, said diamond pattern having a diamond length in the range
of a about 15 micrometers and about 25 micrometers and a diamond
width in a range of about 10 micrometers and about 15 micrometers,
or combinations thereof.
24. A method of treating an ocular condition, comprising the steps
of intraocularly locating said intraocular implant of claim 1 in a
posterior capsule of an eye.
25. The method of treating an ocular condition of claim 24, further
comprising the step of inhibiting migration of cells toward said
center by engagement of said patterned surface elements with said
posterior capsule.
26. The method of treating an ocular condition of claim 25, wherein
said cells comprise residual lens epithelial cells.
Description
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/136,515, filed Aug. 2, 2011, which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
12/998,652, filed May 13, 2011, which is a United States National
Stage of International Patent Cooperation Treaty Patent Application
No. PCT/US2009/006195, filed Nov. 19, 2009, which claims the
benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/270,567,
filed Jul. 10, 2009 and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 61/199,674, filed Nov. 20, 2008, each hereby
incorporated by reference herein.
I. TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] Generally, an intraocular implant and methods for treating
an ocular condition. In particular, an intraocular implant which
implanted between an intraocular lens and the surface of the
posterior capsule of the eye inhibits migration of residual lens
epithelial cells after cataract surgery by providing structural
barriers to reduce posterior capsule opacification of the eye.
II. BACKGROUND
[0003] Visually impairing cataract is the leading cause of
preventable blindness in the world. Presently, the only known
treatment for cataract is the surgical removal of the opacified
lens of the affected eye and replacement with an artificial
intraocular lens, typically including an intraocular lens optic and
haptics ("IOL"). Technological advances in cataract surgery with
IOL implantation have made cataract surgery among the most
effective surgical procedures.
[0004] Now referring primarily to FIGS. 1 and 2, which show a top
view and a cross section view of a phakic eye (1). The most common
technique of cataract surgery may be extracapsular cataract
extraction ("ECCE") which involves the creation of an incision (42)
near the outer edge of the cornea (2) and a circular opening (44)
(shown in FIGS. 3 and 4) in the anterior lens capsule (43) (also
herein referred to as the "anterior capsule") through which the
opacified lens (3) can be removed from the lens capsule (45) (also
referred to as the "capsular bag"). Now referring primarily to
FIGS. 3 and 4 which show a top view and a cross section view of a
pseudophakic eye (4), the lens capsule (45) anchored to the ciliary
body (6) through the zonular fibers (7) can be left substantially
intact. The IOL (8) can then be placed within the lens capsule (45)
through the circular opening (44) in the anterior capsule (43). The
IOL (8) can be acted on by zonular forces exerted on the outer
circumference of the lens capsule (45) which establishes the
location of the IOL (8) within the lens capsule (45). The intact
posterior capsule (5) acts as a barrier to the vitreous humor (9)
within the posterior segment of the eye.
[0005] The most frequent complication to ECCE and other methods of
cataract surgery can be opacification of the posterior capsule (5).
Posterior capsule opacification ("PCO") results from the migration
of residual lens epithelial cells ("LEC") between the IOL (8) and
the surface of the posterior capsule (5) subsequent to cataract
surgery. The residual LECs once located between the IOL (8) and the
surface of the posterior capsule (5) can proliferate leading to
clouding of the normally clear posterior capsule (5). Clouding of
the posterior capsule (5) can decrease visual acuity if the
opacification occurs within the visual axis (21).
[0006] Visually significant PCO requires an additional surgery to
clear the visual axis of the eye. Presently, the most widely
utilized procedure to clear the visual axis of PCO may be
Neodymium: Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet ("Nd:YAG") laser capsulotomy.
However, there may be substantial problems with this procedure such
as IOL damage, postoperative intraocular pressure spikes, vitreous
floaters, cystoid macular edema, retinal detachment, and IOL
subluxation, or the like. Additionally, pediatric patients can be
difficult to treat and a delay in treatment can lead to
irreversible amblyopia. Many underdeveloped countries do not have
access to a Nd:YAG laser and the cost can be prohibitive.
[0007] Prevention or inhibition of PCO fall into two broad
categories: mechanical and pharmacological. Mechanical mechanisms
to inhibit PCO have primarily focused on configuration of the IOL
(8). Configuring the IOL to include a sharp posterior edge may
provide a structural barrier to the migration of residual LECs
between the IOL and the surface of the posterior capsule (5).
Cleary et al., Effect of Square-edged Intraocular Lenses on
Neodymium: YAG Laser Capsulotomy Rates in the United States, J.
Cataract & Refractive Surgery, Vol. 33, p. 1899-1906 (November
2007). However, while introduction of square edged IOLs appears to
have reduced incidence of PCO, a review of Medicare claims data
from 1993 to 2003 evidences that the number of laser capsulotomies
performed in the United States to treat PCO in recipients of square
edged IOL remains substantial.
[0008] Pharmacological mechanisms have been proposed as a way to
inhibit or prevent PCO. The effect of topical treatment with
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ("NSAIDs") such as diclofenac
and indomethacin after phacoemulsification do not appear to inhibit
PCO. Inan et al., Effect of Diclofenac on Prevention of Posterior
Capsule Opacification in Human Eyes, Can J Ophthalmol, 41; 624-629
(2006). Additionally, the majority of pharmacological agents tested
in-vitro for inhibition of migration and proliferation of LECs are
antimetabolites and antimitotics which have not been used
clinically because of their toxic side effects. Inan U U, Ozturk F,
Kaynak S, et al. Prevention of Posterior Capsule Opacification by
Intraoperative Single-dose Pharmacologic Agents, J Cataract Refract
Surg, 27:1079-87(2001); Inan U U, Ozturk F, Kaynak S. Ilker S S,
Ozer E, Guller, Prevention of Posterior Capsule Opacification by
Retinoic Acid and Mitomycin, Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 239:
693-7(2001); Cortina P, Gomez-Lechon M J, Navea A, Menezo J L,
Terencio M C, Diaz-Llopis, M, Diclofenac Sodium and Cyclosporine A
Inhibit Human Lens Epithelial Cell Proliferation in Culture,
Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 235: 180-5(1997); Ismail M M, Alio
J L, Ruiz Moreno J M, Prevention of Secondary Cataract by
Antimitotic Drugs: Experimental Study, Ophthalmic Res, 28:64-9
(1996); Emery J., Capsular Opacification After Cataract Surgery,
Curr Opin Ophthalmol, 10:73-80 (1999); Hartmann C, Wiedemann P,
Gothe K, Weller M, Heimann K, Prevention of Secondary Cataract by
Intracapsular Administration of the Antibiotic Daunomycin,
Ophthalmologie, 4:102-6 (1990).
[0009] Also, available is a sealed capsule irrigation device which
functions to allow selective irrigation of the lens capsule with
LEC inhibiting pharmacologic agents. Maloof A J, Neilson G,
Milverton E J, Pandy S K, Selective and specific targeting of lens
epithelial cells during cataract surgery using sealed-capsule
irrigation, J Cataract Refract Surg, 29:1566-68 (2003). It is not
clear, however, that use of the device can be reduced to routine
practice. Problems relating to incomplete seal of the lens capsule
(45) resulting in leakage of potentially toxic chemicals into the
anterior chamber (46) of the eye, rupture of the lens capsule (45)
during manipulation of the irrigation device, difficulty in
assessing kill of LECs within the lens capsule (45) and an increase
in the duration of routine cataract surgery limit the usefulness of
the irrigation device.
[0010] Another prominent problem with routine cataract surgery and
other surgical procedures such as retinal surgery, cornea
transplant surgery, glaucoma surgery, or the like, can be
postoperative administration of antibiotics to prevent
endophthalmitis. Topical antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops
represent the mainstay of drug delivery for intraocular surgery.
However, there has yet to be a prospective randomized study showing
that topical antibiotics prevent endophthalmitis. Also, because the
human cornea acts as a natural barrier to biologic and chemical
insults, intraocular bioavailability usually requires frequent
dosing regimens for each medication. Topical drops can be difficult
for young and elderly patients and the drop schedule can be
cumbersome and confusing particularly when following surgery each
eye is on a different drop schedule. These difficulties can result
in non-compliance with serious consequences such as
endophthalmitis, glaucoma, and cystoid macular edema. Recent
prospective studies supporting the use of intracameral antibiotic
injections for prophylaxis of endophthalmitis have stirred debate
regarding the risks associated with this method of antibiotic
prophylaxis including the short duration of protective effect
(possibly less than 24 hours), the introduction of potentially
contaminated substances in the anterior chamber, endothelial cell
toxicity, toxic anterior segment syndrome, dilutional and
osmolarity errors during mixing, and the like. Also, the systemic
administration of drugs for treatment of localized ocular
conditions may not be preferred because of the inefficiency
associated with indirect delivery of the drugs to a target
organ.
[0011] Recognizing these disadvantages of conventional delivery of
antibiotics and other drugs to the eye, external ocular inserts
were developed utilizing biologically inert materials to act as a
reservoir for slow release of the drug. These external ocular
inserts may be placed within the upper and lower conjunctival
fornix of the eye to achieve a uniform sustained rate of release of
drug in therapeutically effective amounts. However, patients can be
intolerant of these devices due to difficulty in insertion and
removal and mild to moderate conjunctival irritation during use
which may explain why external ocular inserts have not been widely
accepted in clinical practice.
III. DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
[0012] Accordingly, a broad object of the invention can be to
provide an intraocular implant having patterned surface elements
which implanted between an intraocular lens and the surface of the
posterior capsule of the eye provides a mechanical barrier which
inhibits migration of residual lens epithelial cells after cataract
surgery for treatment of an ocular condition.
[0013] Another broad object of the invention can be to provide a
biocompatible intraocular implant and methods of treatment of an
ocular condition by implantation of the biocompatible intraocular
implant inside the eye with embodiments which can be intraocularly
implanted in the posterior capsule of the eye to provide
pharmaceutical barriers to interrupt progression of the ocular
condition, the ciliary sulcus between the iris and the lens, or in
the anterior chamber overlaying the iris.
[0014] Another broad object of the invention can be to provide a
biocompatible intraocular implant locatable between the surface of
the posterior capsule of the eye and an implanted IOL to provide a
mechanical barrier which inhibits migration of residual lens
epithelial cells after cataract surgery by providing structural
barriers to reduce posterior capsule opacification of the eye.
[0015] Another broad object of the invention can be to provide a
biocompatible biodegradable intraocular implant locatable between
the surface of the posterior capsule of the eye and an implanted
IOL to provide a biodegradable mechanical barrier for treatment of
an ocular condition.
[0016] Another broad object of the invention can be to provide a
biocompatible biodegradable intraocular implant locatable between
the surface of the posterior capsule of the eye and an implanted
IOL which combines a biocompatible biodegradable material which
continually, or substantially continually, releases a
therapeutically effective amount of an active agent to treat an
ocular condition.
[0017] Another broad object of the invention can be to provide a
biocompatible biodegradable intraocular implant locatable between
the surface of the posterior capsule of the eye and an implanted
IOL during cataract surgery which by structural or pharmaceutical
barriers inhibits migration of residual lens epithelial cells to
the surface of the posterior capsule.
[0018] Another broad object of the invention can be to provide a
biocompatible biodegradable intraocular implant locatable between
the surface of the posterior capsule of the eye and an implanted
IOL during cataract surgery which by structural or pharmaceutical
barriers inhibits proliferation of residual lens epithelial cells
to the surface of the posterior capsule as a prophylaxis of
PCO.
[0019] Another broad object of the invention can be to provide a
biocompatible or biocompatible biodegradable intraocular implant
locatable anterior to the natural crystalline lens or an implanted
IOL within the ciliary sulcus for administration of one or more
active agents.
[0020] Another broad object of the invention can be to provide a
biocompatible or biocompatible biodegradable intraocular implant
locatable in the anterior chamber overlaying the iris.
[0021] Naturally, further objects of the invention are disclosed
throughout other areas of the specification, drawings, photographs,
and claims.
IV. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] FIG. 1 is a top view of the phakic eye with the natural lens
intact.
[0023] FIG. 2 is a cross section 2-2 of the phakic eye with the
natural lens intact.
[0024] FIG. 3 is a top view of the pseudophakic eye having the
natural lens replaced with an IOL.
[0025] FIG. 4 is a cross section 4-4 of the pseudophakic eye having
the natural lens replaced with an IOL.
[0026] FIG. 5 is a front view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive intraocular implant of generally circular
configuration.
[0027] FIG. 6 is a front view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive intraocular implant of generally circular configuration
which terminates radially in an annular member.
[0028] FIG. 7 is a back view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive intraocular implant further providing patterned surface
elements.
[0029] FIG. 8 is enlarged partial back view of the particular
embodiment of the inventive intraocular implant shown in FIG. 6
providing patterned surface elements.
[0030] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the particular embodiment of
the inventive intraocular implant shown in FIG. 5.
[0031] FIG. 10 is a cross section view 10-10 of the particular
embodiment of the inventive implant shown in FIG. 9.
[0032] FIG. 11 is a cross section view 11-11 of the particular
embodiment of the inventive implant shown in FIG. 6.
[0033] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of
the inventive intraocular implant.
[0034] FIG. 13 is a cross section view 13-13 of the particular
embodiment of the inventive implant shown in FIG. 12.
[0035] FIG. 14 is plan view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive intraocular implant.
[0036] FIG. 15 is a cross section view 15-15 of the particular
embodiment of the inventive implant shown in FIG. 14.
[0037] FIG. 16 is a side view of the particular embodiment of the
inventive implant shown in FIG. 14.
[0038] FIG. 17 is a front view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive intraocular implant which further provides radial slit
elements originating at the outer boundary.
[0039] FIG. 18 is a front view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive intraocular implant which further provides radial slit
elements originating at the aperture element.
[0040] FIG. 19 is a front view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive intraocular implant which further provides perforation
elements.
[0041] FIG. 20 is a front view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive intraocular implant which further provides two more
flexible membrane zones.
[0042] FIG. 21 is an enlarged partial back view of the particular
embodiment of the inventive intraocular implant shown in FIG. 6
which shows a particular embodiment of patterned surface elements
in the form of a plurality of raised elements.
[0043] FIG. 22 is cross section 22-22 of the patterned surface
elements shown in FIG. 21.
[0044] FIG. 23 is an enlarged partial back view of the particular
embodiment of the inventive intraocular implant in FIG. 6 which
shows a particular embodiment of the patterned surface elements in
the form of a plurality of recessed elements.
[0045] FIG. 24 is cross section 24-24 of the patterned surface
elements shown in FIG. 23.
[0046] FIG. 25 is an enlarged partial back view of the particular
embodiment of the inventive intraocular implant in FIG. 6 which
shows a particular embodiment of the patterned surface elements in
the form of a plurality of raised elements on the back surface and
a plurality of recessed elements on the front surface.
[0047] FIG. 26 is cross section 26-26 of the patterned surface
elements shown in FIG. 25 which shows a plurality of raised
elements on the back surface of a particular embodiment of the
inventive intraocular implant and a plurality of recessed elements
on the front surface of the inventive intraocular implant.
[0048] FIG. 27 is an enlarged partial front view of the particular
embodiment of the inventive intraocular implant shown in FIG. 6
which shows another particular embodiment of the patterned surface
elements.
[0049] FIG. 28 is cross section 28-28 of the patterned surface
elements shown in FIG. 27.
[0050] FIG. 29 is an enlarged partial front view of the particular
embodiment of the inventive intraocular implant shown in FIG. 6
which shows another particular embodiment of the patterned surface
elements.
[0051] FIG. 30 is cross section 30-30 of the patterned surface
elements shown in FIG. 29.
[0052] FIG. 31 is an enlarged partial front view of the particular
embodiment of the inventive intraocular implant shown in FIG. 6
which shows another particular embodiment of the patterned surface
elements.
[0053] FIG. 32 is cross section 32-32 of the patterned surface
elements shown in FIG. 31.
[0054] FIG. 33 is an enlarged partial front view of the particular
embodiment of the inventive intraocular implant shown in FIG. 6
which shows another particular embodiment of the patterned surface
elements.
[0055] FIG. 34 is cross section 34-34 of the patterned surface
elements shown in FIG. 33.
[0056] FIG. 35 is a front view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive intraocular implant which further provides one or more
boundary recess elements.
[0057] FIG. 36 is a front view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive intraocular implant which includes both radial slit
elements originating from the aperture element and boundary recess
elements which periodically interrupt the outer boundary.
[0058] FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a plurality of an
embodiment of the inventive intraocular implant which can be
stacked front to back.
[0059] FIG. 38 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
inventive intraocular implant which further provides radial
capillary elements.
[0060] FIG. 39 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
inventive intraocular implant which further provides corrugate
elements.
[0061] FIG. 40 shows an embodiment of the intraocular implant held
by forceps for implantation into an eye having the natural lens
removed.
[0062] FIG. 41 is top view of the pseudophakic eye having the
natural lens removed allowing an embodiment of the intraocular
implant to be positioned on the surface the posterior capsule
through an opening made in the anterior capsule.
[0063] FIG. 42 is a cross section view of the pseudophakic eye
having the natural lens removed allowing an embodiment of the
intraocular implant to be positioned on the surface the posterior
capsule through an incision made in the anterior capsule.
[0064] FIG. 43 is a cross section view of the pseudophakic eye
having the intraocular implant of FIG. 9 positioned between the
surface the posterior capsule and the implanted IOL.
[0065] FIG. 44 is a cross section view of the pseudophakic eye
having the intraocular implant of FIG. 6 positioned between the
surface the posterior capsule and the implanted IOL.
[0066] FIG. 45 is a cross section view of the pseudophakic eye
having the intraocular implant of FIG. 12 positioned on the surface
of the posterior capsule.
[0067] FIG. 46 is a cross section view of the phakic eye having the
intraocular implant of FIG. 9 positioned between the iris and the
natural crystalline lens of the eye.
[0068] FIG. 47 is front view of an embodiment of the intraocular
implant affixed to a sterile card prior to implantation.
[0069] FIG. 48 is a side view of an embodiment of the intraocular
implant affixed to a sterile card prior to implantation.
V. MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0070] Generally, an intraocular implant and methods for treating
an ocular condition. In particular, an intraocular implant which
implanted between an intraocular lens and the surface of the
posterior capsule of the eye inhibits migration of residual lens
epithelial cells after cataract surgery by providing structural
barriers to reduce posterior capsule opacification of the eye.
Definitions
[0071] "A" or "an" entity refers to one or more of that entity; for
example, "a polymer" refers to one or more of those compositions or
at least one composition. As such, the terms "a" or "an", "one or
more" and "at least one" can be used interchangeably herein.
Furthermore, the language "selected from the group consisting of"
refers to one or more of the elements in the list that follows,
including combinations of two or more of the elements.
[0072] "About" for the purposes of the present invention means that
ranges may be expressed as from "about" one particular value to
"about" another particular value. When such a range is expressed,
another embodiment includes from the one particular value to the
other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as
approximations, by use of the antecedent "about," it will be
understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. In
the context of such a numerical value or range "about" means plus
or minus 10% of the numerical value or range recited or
claimed.
[0073] "Active agent" for the purposes of this invention means any
substance used to treat an ocular condition.
[0074] "Biocompatible" for the purposes of this invention means the
ability of any material to perform the intended function of an
embodiment of the invention without eliciting any undesirable local
or systemic effects on the recipient and can include
non-biodegradable materials such as: polyurethanes,
polyisobutylene, ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers, acrylic polymers
and copolymers, vinyl halide polymers and copolymers, polyvinyl
esters, polyvinylidene chloride, polyacrylonitrile, polyvinyl
ketones, polyvinyl aromatics such as polystyrene, copolymers of
vinyl monomers and olefins such as ethylene-methyl methacrylate
copolymers, acrylonitrile-styrene copolymers, ABS resins,
ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers, polyamides such as Nylon 66 and
polycaprolactone, alkyd resins, polycarbonates, polyoxyethylenes,
polyimides, polyesters, epoxy resins, rayon-triacetate, cellophane,
silicon rubber, silicon hydrogel, or the like, or biodegradable
materials, as herein described.
[0075] "Biodegradable" for the purposes of this invention means the
ability of any biocompatible material to breakdown within the
physiological environment of the eye by one or more physical,
chemical, or cellular processes at a rate consistent with providing
structural or pharmaceutical barriers (or both) at a therapeutic
level controllable by selection of a polymer or mixture of polymers
(also referred to as polymeric materials), including, but not
limited to: polylactide polymers (PLA), copolymers of lactic and
glycolic acids (PLGA), polylactic acid-polyethylene oxide
copolymers, poly(.epsilon.-caprolactone-co-L-lactic acid (PCL-LA),
glycine/PLA copolymers, PLA copolymers involving polyethylene
oxides (PEO), acetylated polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/polycaprolactone
copolymers, hydroxybutyrate-hydroxyvalerate copolymers, polyesters
such as, but not limited to, aspartic acid and different aliphatic
diols, poly(alkylene tartrates) and their copolymers with
polyurethanes, polyglutamates with various ester contents and with
chemically or enzymatically degradable bonds, other biodegradable
nonpeptidic polyamides, amino acid polymers, polyanhydride drug
carriers such as, but not limited to, poly(sebacic acid) (PSA),
aliphatic-aromatic homopolymers, and poly(anhydride-co-imides),
poly(phosphoesters) by matrix or pendant delivery systems,
poly(phosphazenes), poly(iminocarbonate), crosslinked poly(ortho
ester), hydroxylated polyester-urethanes, or the like. Hydrogels
such as methylcellulose which act to release drug through polymer
swelling are specifically excluded from the term.
[0076] "Intraocular" for the purposes of this invention means
inside the eyeball (also referred to as an "eye") and without
limitation to the forgoing the anterior chamber, the ciliary
sulcus, and posterior capsule of the eye; however, specifically
excluding the external surface of the eye or intracorneal or
intrasclera regions of the eye.
[0077] "Localized Region" for the purposes of this invention means
substantially within a localized tissue region of the eye
therapeutically affected (whether structurally or pharmaceutically)
by implantation of embodiments of an intraocular implant.
[0078] "Ocular condition" for the purposes of this invention means
a disease, ailment or condition which affects or involves the eye
or any one of the parts or regions of the eye, such as PCO. The eye
includes the eyeball and the tissues and fluids which constitute
the eyeball, the periocular muscles (such as the oblique and rectus
muscles) and the portion of the optic nerve which is within or
adjacent to the eyeball.
[0079] "Posterior ocular condition" for the purposes of this
invention means a disease, ailment or condition which affects or
involves a posterior ocular region or site such as the choroid or
sclera (in a position posterior to a plane through the posterior
wall of the lens capsule), vitreous, vitreous chamber, retina,
optic nerve (i.e. the optic disc), and blood vessels and nerve
which vascularize or innervate a posterior ocular region or
site.
[0080] "Suitable for implantation" for the purposes of this
invention means with regard to embodiments of the intraocular
implant dimensions which allow insertion or implantation without
causing excessive tissue damage.
[0081] "Therapeutic level" for the purposes of this invention means
an amount or a concentration of an active agent that has been
locally delivered to an ocular region that is appropriate to
reduce, inhibit, or prevent a symptom of an ocular condition.
[0082] Now generally referring to FIGS. 5-39, particular
embodiments of the inventive intraocular implant (11) can provide a
biocompatible flexible membrane or a biocompatible biodegradable
flexible membrane (also generally referred to as a "flexible
membrane" (12)) having an outer boundary (13) configured to allow
the intraocular implant (11) to locate in the concavity of the
posterior capsule (5) of the pseudophakic eye (4), or other
localized region inside the eye such as the ciliary sulcus or
anterior chamber (46) depending on the application. As a
non-limiting example, the intraocular implant (11) can be located
in the posterior capsule (5) for the purpose of isolating the
surface of the posterior capsule (5) from migration of residual
LECs after cataract surgery, or reducing or preventing the
migration of residual LECs between the surface of an IOL (8)
implanted in the lens capsule (45) and the surface of the posterior
capsule (5).
[0083] Intraocular implants (11) suitable for implantation can
provide a flexible membrane (12) having an outer boundary (13)
which as a non-limiting example defines a circular area having a
diameter in a range of about 9 millimeters ("mm") and about 15 mm
depending on the recipient; however, the invention is not so
limited, and the outer boundary (13) can define a substantially
circular, ovoid, or other configuration of the outer boundary (13)
suitable for implantation into the concavity of the posterior
capsule (5) of the pseudophakic eye (4), or other localized region
inside the eye.
[0084] Now referring primarily to FIG. 17, particular embodiments
of the flexible membrane (12) can further include one or more
radial slit elements (14) cut through the thickness of the flexible
membrane with the radial slit elements (14) originating at the
outer boundary (13) cut a distance radially toward the center of
the flexible membrane (12). The one or more radial slit elements
(14) can have sufficient length and width to allow the flexible
membrane (12) to conform to a greater extent with the concavity of
the posterior capsule (5) of the pseudophakic eye (4) or other
localized region inside the eye. As one non-limiting example, the
radial slit elements (14) can provide an opening in the flexible
membrane (12) having a greater slit width (15) at the outer
boundary (13) of the flexible membrane (12) than proximate the
center of the flexible membrane (12). As a non-limiting example,
the flexible membrane (12) when received by the concavity of the
posterior capsule (5) can deform to reduce the slit width (15) at
the outer boundary (13) of the flexible membrane (12).
[0085] Now referring primarily to FIGS. 35 and 36, particular
embodiments of the flexible membrane can further provide one or
more boundary recess elements (16) located along the outer boundary
(13) of the flexible membrane (12). The outer boundary (13) of the
flexible membrane (12) can be interrupted once or periodically to
provide one or more of the recess elements (16) which can be
configured, for example, as semicircular notches, triangular
notches, indents, or the like which can function to allow added
flexure to more readily locate the flexible membrane in the
posterior capsule of the eye (or other localized region), as above
described, or can function to reduce sequestration of peripheral
cortical material during the final irrigation and aspiration steps
in cataract surgery.
[0086] With respect to the particular embodiments of the
intraocular implant shown in FIGS. 5-39 and in particular referring
to FIGS. 5, 9, and 10 as a non-limiting example, the flexible
membrane (12) can have a thickness (17) disposed between a front
surface (18) and a back surface (19)(also referred to as "a first
side" and "a second side" or "opposed sides"). As to particular
embodiments of the intraocular implant (11), the front surface (18)
and the back surface (19) can be disposed in substantially parallel
opposed relation providing a relatively uniform thickness of the
intraocular implant (11) in a range of about 5 microns (".mu.m")
and about 400 .mu.m, as shown by the non-limiting cross section
shown in the non-limiting example of FIG. 9. Particular embodiments
of the intraocular implant, can have a uniform thickness (17) in a
range selected from the group including: about 5 .mu.m and about
100 .mu.m, about 50 .mu.m and about 150 .mu.m, about 100 .mu.m and
about 200 .mu.m, about 150 .mu.m and about 250 .mu.m, about 200
.mu.m and about 300 .mu.m, about 250 .mu.m and 300 .mu.m, 300 .mu.m
and about 400 .mu.m, and about 350 .mu.m and about 400 .mu.m. As to
particular embodiments, the edge (80) at the outer boundary (13) of
the intraocular implant (11) can be configured to intersect each of
the front surface (18) and the back surface (19) at substantially
right angles as shown in FIG. 9. Depending upon the thickness (17)
of the intraocular implant (11), the optical power of the IOL (8)
can be adjusted if necessary. However, embodiments of the
intraocular implant are not limited to having a uniform thickness
(17) and certain embodiments of the intraocular implant (11) can
provide a flexible membrane (12) thinner proximate the center and
thicker proximate the outer boundary (13) or can provide a flexible
membrane thicker proximate the center and thinner at the edges
depending upon the application. As another non-limiting example,
the thickness (17) of the flexible membrane (12) may be thinner in
the center to align with the visual axis of the pseudophakic eye
(4) to increase visual acuity or promote directional biodegradation
of the intraocular implant (11) from the center toward the outer
boundary (13).
[0087] Now referring primarily to FIGS. 6, 10, 11, 12, and 13 as
non-limiting examples, the intraocular implant can further include,
an annular member (74) joined about, or to the front surface (18),
of the intraocular implant (11). The surface of the edge (80) of
the annular member (74) can define the outer boundary (13) of the
intraocular implant (11). The outside surface of the edge (80) can
intersect the back surface (19) of the flexible membrane (12) at an
angle (78) which upon contact with the surface of the posterior
capsule (5) can provide a barrier or impede migration of LECs
toward the center of the intraocular implant (11). While the angle
of the intersection (78) of the outside surface of the edge (80)
with the back surface (19) of the intraocular implant (11) can be
substantially a right angle; the invention is not so limited, and
embodiments with an angle of intersection between the outside
surface of the edge (80) with the back surface (19) of between
about 90 degrees and about 120 degrees but retains a sharp corner
can be suitable.
[0088] As to particular embodiments which include the annular
member (74), the edge (80) can have a height (75) substantially
greater than the thickness (17) of the flexible membrane (12). The
height (75) of the edge (80) can be within the range of about 10
.mu.m and about 1500 .mu.m depending upon the application. As a
non-limiting example, the thickness (17) of the flexible membrane
(12) can be in the range of about 50 .mu.m and about 300 .mu.m
while the annular member (74) can provide an edge (80) having a
height (75) in the range of about 300 .mu.m and about 1500 .mu.m;
however, the invention is not so limited, and the height (75) of
the edge (80) as to particular embodiments can fall outside of the
range depending on the application.
[0089] Now referring primarily to FIG. 44 the height (75) of the
edge (80) of he annular member (74) can be sufficiently greater
than the thickness (17) of the flexible membrane (12) to provide an
inside surface (77) of the annular member (74) having sufficient
height (79) to engage the haptics (10) of the IOL (8) engaged with
the front surface (18) of the intraocular implant (11).
[0090] Now referring primarily to FIGS. 12, 13 and 45, while
embodiments of the inventive intraocular implant (11) shown in
FIGS. 5 through 7, 17 through 20, 35 through 39 and 43 and 44 can
be separate from the IOL (8); the invention is not so limited, and
particular embodiments of the intraocular implant can be joined,
coupled, or otherwise made one piece with the IOL (8), or elements
of the intraocular implant (11) (such as the patterned surface
elements) can be incorporated into IOL (8) such that the IOL (8)
and those incorporated elements can be provided as a one piece IOL
(8). The particular embodiment shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, shows the
IOL (8), the flexible membrane (12) and the annular member (74)
formed as one piece (the haptics (10) being omitted from the
embodiment). The flexible membrane (12) can be joined about the
circumference of the IOL. The flexible membrane (12) can radially
extend outwardly to terminate in the edge (80) of the annular
member (74). The dimensional relations of the flexible member (12)
and the annular member (74) can be as above-described. A plurality
of radial struts (81) can be coupled to the front surface (18) of
the intraocular implant (11) between the circumference of the IOL
(8) and the inside surface (77) of the annular member (74) having
dimensional relations sufficient to maintain the front surface (18)
and the back surface (19) of the flexible membrane (12) and the
annular member (74) in proper relation to the a pseudophakic eye
(4) upon implantation as shown in the non-limiting example of FIG.
42. Accordingly, the surgical technique described below can include
the steps of implanting into the lens capsule (45) the IOL (8)
joined, coupled or otherwise made one piece with to the intraocular
implant (11) or elements thereof.
[0091] Now referring primarily to FIGS. 6 through 8, FIGS. 12
through 16, and FIGS. 21 through 34, particular embodiments of the
intraocular implant (11), can provide patterned surface elements
(20) coupled to the back surface (19) of the intraocular implant
(11). The patterned surface elements (20) can be adapted to engage
the surface of the posterior capsule (5) to reduce travel of the
intraocular implant (11) or maintain the alignment of the center of
the intraocular implant (11) with the visual axis of the eye (21).
The patterned surface elements (20) can provide an irregular or
uniform pattern, texture, or roughness sufficient to fix or reduce
travel of the intraocular implant (11) in the posterior capsule
(5).
[0092] As to certain embodiments of the intraocular implant (11)
the patterned surface elements (20) can also provide pockets which
function to provide a localized space to deliver or sequester an
amount of an active agent (24). The patterned surface elements can
be variously configured to deliver or sequester an active agent
(24) depending on the application. The pattern surface elements
(20) can be one piece with the flexible membrane (12) or can be
applied to the flexible membrane (12) as a pattern surface element
layer.
[0093] As to certain embodiments of the intraocular implant (11),
whether in the form of the inventive implant as shown in the
examples of FIGS. 5 through 11 which can be combined with otherwise
made one piece with the IOL (8) or in the form of the various
embodiments of a one-piece IOL (8) as shown in the examples of
FIGS. 12 through 16, patterned surface elements (20) can be coupled
to the front surface (18) or the back surface (19) of the
intraocular implant (11) to provide an irregular or uniform
pattern, texture, roughness, or dimensional relations sufficient to
inhibit migration of cells, such as residual lens epithelial cells,
after cataract surgery by providing structural barriers as shown in
the examples of FIGS. 21 through 34. The patterned surface elements
(20) can be configured to provide a sufficient structural barrier
to the migration of residual lens epithelial cells to eliminate,
substantially eliminate or reduce posterior capsule (5)
opacification of the pseudophakic eye (4). As to certain
embodiments, the intraocular implant (11) can include the IOL (8)
comprising an intraocular lens optic (82) and an intraocular lens
haptic (83) with patterned surface elements (20) coupled to at
least a part of said IOL (8) while maintaining a line of sight (21)
through the intraocular lens optic (82), the patterned surface
elements (20) having dimensional relations adapted to inhibit
migration of cells between the IOL (8) and the surface of said
posterior capsule (5) of the eye.
[0094] In general, the patterned surface elements (20) can include
a plurality of raised elements (47) or a plurality of recessed
elements (69) which project outwardly or recess inwardly from the
back surface (19) or the front surface (18) of the biocompatible
flexible membrane (12) of the intraocular implant (11) in spaced
apart relation to one another.
[0095] As to certain embodiments, the plurality of raised elements
(47) can be bounded by a corresponding plurality of channels (48)
which form a pattern over the entirety or over a portion of the
back surface (19) or the front surface (18), or both the front
surface (18) and the back surface (19) of the biocompatible
flexible membrane (12) of the intraocular implant (11). The
plurality of raised elements (47) can be produced from one or more
of the biocompatible or biodegradable materials, as above
described, which as to certain embodiments can be a material
different than used to form the biocompatible or biocompatible
biodegradable flexible membrane (12). The top surface (49) of each
of the plurality of raised elements (47) can be generally flat or
planar having a surface area sufficiently small to reduce or
prevent adhesion or migration of residual lens epithelial cells
across the plurality of raised elements (47) and each of the
plurality of channels (48) can be sufficiently small to reduce or
prevent migration or adhesion between the plurality of raised
elements (47). The plurality of raised elements (47) can be
disposed in spaced apart relation on the back surface (19) or the
front surface (18), or both, of the biocompatible or biocompatible
biodegradable flexible membrane (12) to dispose the plurality of
channels in a non-linear path (67) inwardly approaching the center
of the intraocular implant (11). The various embodiments of the
patterned surface elements (20) can occur only on the back surface
(19), only on the front surface (18) or can occur on both the back
surface (19) and on the front surface (18).
[0096] Embodiments of the top surface (49) of each of the plurality
of raised elements can have a lesser dimension between two
sidewalls (50) (see for example FIG. 13) in the range of about 500
nanometers and about 4 micrometers. Depending upon the application,
the lesser dimension can be selected from the group including:
about 400 nanometers and about 1 micrometer, about 500 nanometers
and about 1.5 micrometers, 1 micrometer an about 2.0 micrometers,
1.5 micrometers and about 2.5 micrometers, 2.0 micrometers and
about 3.0 micrometers, 2.5 micrometers and about 3.5 micrometers,
3.0 micrometers and about 4.0 micrometers, and 3.5 micrometers and
about 4.0 micrometers, or combinations thereof.
[0097] Understandably, the top surface (49) as between two or more
of the plurality of raised elements (47) can be configured in
substantially similar configuration and similar in dimensional
relations or as between two or more of the plurality of raised
elements (47) can be substantially different in configuration or
irregular in dimensional relations. The lesser dimension can as to
particular embodiments relate to the width of one of the plurality
of raised elements (47) and the greater dimension as to particular
embodiments can relate to a length of one of the plurality of
raised elements (47). However, the invention is not so limited; and
numerous and varied embodiments can be produced in which the top
surface has an irregular surface area, or may be substantially
circular or can be a regular polygon, or the like, which do not
afford a distinction between width and length. Accordingly, the
above dimensions afford guidance sufficient for the person of
ordinary skill in the art to provide a plurality of raised elements
(49) in spaced apart relation having a wide variety of
configurations useful in inhibiting adhesion and migration of cells
toward the center of the intraocular implant (11).
[0098] The sidewalls (50) of each of the plurality of raised
elements (47) can be generally vertical to the surface of the
intraocular implant (11) when the biocompatible flexible membrane
(12) is disposed in a generally flat condition. The sidewalls (50)
can have a sidewall height (51) in the range of about 400
nanometers and about 6 micrometers. Depending upon the application,
the sidewall height (51) can be selected from the group including:
about 400 nanometers and about 1 micrometer, about 500 nanometers
and about 1.5 micrometers, 1 micrometer an about 2.0 micrometers,
1.5 micrometers and about 2.5 micrometers, 2.0 micrometers and
about 3.0 micrometers, 2.5 micrometers and about 3.5 micrometers,
3.0 micrometers and about 4.0 micrometers, 3.5 micrometers and
about 4.5 micrometers, 4.0 micrometers and about 5.0 micrometers,
about 4.5 micrometers and about 5.5 micrometers, and about 5.0
micrometers and about 6.0 micrometers, or combinations thereof.
[0099] Each of the plurality of channels (48) defined by opposed
sidewalls (50) can have a channel width (61) in the range of about
100 nanometers and about 2.5 micrometers. Depending upon the
application, a suitable channel width (61) (see for example FIG.
17) can be selected from the group including: 100 nanometers and
about 300 nanometers, about 200 nanometers and about 400
nanometers, about 300 nanometers and about 500 nanometers, about
400 nanometers and about 600 nanometers, about 500 nanometers and
about 700 nanometers, about 600 nanometers and about 800
nanometers, about 700 nanometers and about 900 nanometers about 800
nanometers and about 1 micrometer, about 900 nanometers and about
1.1 micrometer, 1 micrometer an about 1.2 micrometer, 1.1
micrometer and about 1.3 micrometer, 1.2 micrometer and about 1.4
micrometer, 1.3 micrometer and about 1.5 micrometers, 1.4
micrometer and about 1.6 micrometer, 1.5 micrometer and about 1.7
micrometer, 1.6 micrometer and about 1.8 micrometer, 1.7 micrometer
and about 1.9 micrometer, and about 1.8 micrometer and about 2
micrometer, or combinations thereof
[0100] Now referring primarily to FIGS. 21 through 34, which
provide non-limiting examples of raised elements (20) or recessed
elements (69) which can be useful in inhibiting the migration of
cells between the back surface (19) of the biocompatible flexible
membrane (12) and the surface of the posterior capsule (5) of the a
pseudophakic eye (4) or can be useful in inhibiting the migration
of cells between the front surface (18) and an implanted
intraocular lens (8).
[0101] As to the non-limiting example of FIGS. 21-26, the patterned
surface elements (20) can have the topography (or reverse
topography) of a shark's skin as described in U.S. Pat. No.
7,650,848, hereby incorporated by reference herein to the extent
that that the description does not conflict with the express
description of embodiments of the patterned surface elements (20).
The topography of the shark skin can be scaled to inhibit adhesion
and migration of residual lens epithelial cells between the back
surface (19) of the intraocular implant (11) and the surface of the
posterior capsule (5) of the pseudophakic eye (4). As one
non-limiting example, the topography of the shark skin can be
characterized by a plurality of repeating diamond patterns (52)
each consisting of a plurality of raised elements (47) including
seven bar elements (53). The diamond pattern (52) can have an
overall diamond length (68) in the range of about 15 micrometers
and about 25 micrometers. Each of the seven bar elements (53) can
have a bar width (60) in the range of about 1 micrometer and about
2.5 micrometers and having a corresponding one of a plurality of
channels (48) each having channel width (61) of about 400
nanometers and about 2 micrometer. The seven bar elements (53) can
have a bar length (54) in the range of about 4 micrometers and
about 20 micrometers. The height of the side wall (50) for each of
the seven bar elements (53) can be in the range of about 1
micrometer and about 5 micrometers.
[0102] Now referring primarily to FIGS. 23-24, particular
non-limiting examples of the patterned surface elements (20) can
take the form of the topography of a shark's skin as above
described; however, the plurality of raised elements (47) and
plurality of channel (48) can be replaced by a corresponding
plurality of recessed elements (69) having corresponding plurality
of bottom surfaces (70) and spacer elements (71) having a
corresponding spacer width (73) to form substantially the same
pattern having substantially the same dimensional relations as
above described. Again, any of patterned surface elements (20)
described herein as a plurality of raised elements (47) and a
corresponding plurality of channel elements (48) can take the
constructional form of a plurality of recessed elements (70) and a
plurality of spacer elements (71) having substantially the same or
similar pattern or dimensional relations in the ranges above
described.
[0103] Now referring primarily to FIGS. 25 and 26, particular
embodiments of the patterned surface elements (20) can take the
form of a plurality of raised elements (47) on one side of the
biocompatible flexible membrane (12) and a plurality of recessed
elements (69) on the opposed side of the biocompatible flexible
membrane (12). While FIGS. 20 and 21 show a plurality of raised
elements (47) on the back side (19) of the biocompatible flexible
membrane (12) and a plurality of recessed elements (69) on the
front side (18) of the biocompatible flexible membrane (12); the
invention is not so limited, and the a plurality of recessed
elements (69) can occur on the back side (19) while the plurality
of raised elements can occur on the front side (18) of the
biocompatible flexible membrane (12).
[0104] Now referring primarily to FIGS. 27 and 28, particular
embodiments of the patterned surface elements (20) can take the
form of a plurality of raised elements (47) each having a generally
cylindrical configuration in spaced apart relation of columns and
rows. Each of the plurality of raised elements (47) having
substantially circular top surface (49) having a diameter in the
range of about 400 nanometers and about 600 nanometers and side
wall (50) having a height of about 400 nanometers and about 600
nanometers. The plurality of raised elements (47) can be
established on centers in the range of about 600 nanometers and
about 1 micrometer affording a distance between the sidewalls (50)
of between about 200 nanometers and about 400 nanometers.
[0105] Now referring primarily to FIGS. 29 and 30, particular
embodiments of the patterned surface elements (20) can take the
form of a plurality of raised elements (47) in the form of a
plurality of repeating bar patterns (55) each characterized by four
bar elements (56) of substantially equal length in spaced apart
generally parallel relation having corresponding aligned first ends
(57) and aligned second ends (58) with a cross bar (59) disposed in
generally perpendicular relation a distance from the aligned first
ends (57) or aligned second ends (58) of the four bar elements
(56). Each of the four bar elements (56) can have a width (60) in
the range of about 2 micrometers and about 5 micrometers and having
a corresponding one of a plurality of channels (48) each having
width (61) of about 400 nanometers and about 1 micrometer. The four
bar elements (56) can each have a length (62) in the range of about
4 micrometers and about 20 micrometers. The height of the side wall
(50) of each of the four bar elements (56) can be in the range of
about 1 micrometer and about 3 micrometers. The cross bar (59) can
be disposed a distance from the aligned first ends (57) or aligned
second ends (58) of the four bar elements (56) (or may alternate
between the aligned first ends (57) and aligned second ends (58) as
the pattern repeats) in the range of about 400 nanometers and about
1 micrometer. The length of the cross bar (59) can be sufficient to
span the distance of the spaced apart relation of the four bar
elements (56). The cross bar (59) having dimensional relations
otherwise similar to the four bar elements (56).
[0106] Now referring primarily to FIGS. 31 and 32, embodiments of
the patterned surface elements (20) can take the form of a
plurality of raised elements (47) each having a top surface (20) of
generally hexagonal configuration in regular spaced apart
tessellation. Each of the hexagonal top surface (49) can have a
width (60) in the range of about 400 nanometers and about 600
nanometers and side wall (50) having a height of about 400
nanometers and about 600 nanometers. The corresponding plurality of
channels (48) can have a width (61) of about 100 nanometers and
about 200 nanometers between each of the plurality of raised
elements (47).
[0107] Now referring primarily to FIGS. 33 and 34, embodiments of
the patterned surface elements (20) can take the form of a
plurality of raised elements (47) in the form of a plurality of bar
elements (65) in a herringbone pattern. Each of the plurality of
bar elements (65) can be of substantially equal length in the range
of about 4 micrometers and about 20 micrometers and having a width
(61) in the range of about 2 micrometers and about 5 micrometers.
The height of the side walls (51) of each of the plurality of bar
elements (65) can be in the range of about 1 micrometer and about 3
micrometers. The corresponding plurality of channels (48) between
the plurality of bar elements (65) can have a channel width (60) of
about 400 nanometers and about 1 micrometer.
[0108] Now referring primarily to FIG. 19, certain embodiments of
the flexible membrane (12) can further include one or more
perforation elements (22) which provide a corresponding one or more
perforation openings (23) which communicate between the front
surface (18) and the back surface (19) of the flexible membrane
(12) for the purpose of increasing rate of biodegradation of the
flexible membrane (12) or control release rate of an active agent
(24). The active agent (24) (shown for example in FIGS. 9, 10 and
13 as a stipple pattern) is not intended to be limited to those
particular embodiments of the intraocular implant (11) or limit the
active agent (24) to any particular composition, particle size, or
amount.
[0109] Now referring primarily to FIG. 37, certain embodiments of
the flexible membrane (12) can further provide two or more flexible
membrane layers (25). The two or more membrane layers (25) can take
the form of a first flexible membrane layer (26) and a second
flexible membrane layer (27) or additional flexible membrane layers
(28) extruded as a single piece, coupled together as one unit, or
stacked front to back (whether single piece, coupled or stacked the
term "coupled" may be used to refer to the association of a
plurality of flexible membrane layers). Each of the first flexible
membrane layer (26) and the second flexible membrane layer (27) or
additional flexible layers (28) can be generated from the same or
different biocompatible biodegradable materials. As a non-limiting
example, in an embodiment of the invention for the treatment of
PCO, the first flexible membrane layer (26) can be made of a
biocompatible or biocompatible biodegradable material which can
have the back surface (19) disposed adjacent the surface of the
posterior capsule (5) to provide both a structural barrier to the
migration of LECs to the surface of the posterior capsule but to
further function as a pharmaceutical barrier which inhibits
proliferation or kills LECs by the substantially continuous release
of an active agent (24) such as alkylphosphocholine at a rate which
provides a therapeutic level, such as a localized concentration of
about 1.0 millimolar ("mM") for a period of at least five days to
inhibit or prevent PCO. The front surface (18) of the first
flexible membrane layer (26) can be coupled adjacent the back
surface (19) of the second flexible membrane layer (27) (for
example by melt co-extrusion) produced from the same or different
biocompatible biodegradable material and the front surface (18) of
the second flexible membrane layer (27) can be disposed toward an
IOL (8) implanted into the posterior capsule (5) to provide a
structural barrier to migration of LECs toward the surface of the
posterior capsule and can further function as a pharmaceutical
barrier which inhibits proliferation or kills LECs by the
substantially continuous release of the same active agent (24)
(such as an alkylphosphocholine) or a different active agent (24)
such as mitomycin-C at a therapeutic level, such as a localized
concentration of about 0.04 mg/mL, for a period of at least about
five days to inhibit or prevent PCO. Thus, by configuring the
layers in different combinations the rate of release of various
active agents can be adjusted depending on the application.
[0110] Now referring primarily to FIG. 20, two or more flexible
membrane zones (29) can be established with each flexible membrane
zone (29) generated from a particular flexible membrane material.
As to certain embodiments, the two or more flexible membrane zones
(29) can be established as concentric regions with a first annular
zone (30) surrounded by a second annular zone (31). The first
annular zone (30) can be of different biocompatible or
biocompatible biodegradable material then the second annular zone
(31). For example, the first annular zone (30) can provide a
biocompatible biodegradable material selected for a greater rate of
biodegradation or active agent (24) release (or both) relative to
the second annular zone (31) which can provide a biocompatible
biodegradable material selected for a lesser rate of biodegradation
or active agent (24) release (or both). In that configuration of
the inventive intraocular implant (11), the prominent function of
the first annular zone (30) can be to provide a pharmaceutical
barrier or treatment of an ocular disorder, while the prominent
function of the second annular zone (31) can be to provide a
structural barrier or treatment of an ocular disorder. In
particular embodiments of the inventive intraocular implant for the
inhibition of PCO, the first annular zone can be made of the
biocompatible biodegradable material poly(lactide-co-glycolide)
having an active agent (24) such as alkylphosphocholine dispersed
substantially uniformly through out which can provide a
pharmaceutical barrier to the proliferation of LECs on the surface
of the posterior capsule (5) to inhibit or prevent PCO by release
of a therapeutic level of alkylphosphocholine of about 1.0 mM for a
period of at least about five days. The first annular zone (30) can
substantially biodegrade in the entirety in a period of about five
days to about ten days. The second annular zone can be made of the
same biocompatible biodegradable material having the same or
different active agent (24) dispersed substantially uniformly
throughout to provide both a structural barrier to inhibit
migration of LECs toward to the surface of the posterior capsule
and can provide a pharmaceutical barrier by release of the same or
different active agent (24) such as alkylphosphocholine at a
therapeutic level or provide a localized concentration of about 1.0
mM for a period of at least twenty days to inhibit or prevent
PCO.
[0111] Again referring generally to FIGS. 5 through 11, 17 through
20, and 35 through 36, particular embodiments of the inventive
intraocular implant (11) can further include an aperture element
(32) having a passage opening (33) sufficiently large to align with
the visual axis of the eye (21) to provide a line of sight which
passes through the intraocular implant (11) or the first annular
zone (30) or the second annular zone (31).
[0112] While the aperture element (32) shown in FIGS. 5 through 11,
17 through 20, and 35 through 39 define a substantially circular
passage opening having a diameter in the range of about 1.5 mm and
about 9 mm depending upon the application and the recipient; the
invention is not so limited and certain embodiments of the
inventive intraocular implant (11) can provide an aperture element
(32) which defines an oval, square, triangle, or other
configuration of passage opening (33) sufficient to provide a line
of sight which passes through the intraocular implant (11). As to
those embodiments of the invention which are utilized with an
intraocular optical implant, such as an IOL as further described
herein, the passage opening (33) can be dimensioned in relation to
the intraocular optical implant to avoid reduction in the field of
vision provided by the intraocular optical implant or to avoid a
reduction in clarity of vision within visual field. Alternately, in
those embodiments of the invention in which the passage opening
(33) has insufficient dimension to avoid overlaying all or part of
the visual field afforded by the intraocular optical implant,
embodiments of the intraocular implant (11) can be further
configured to provide an optical element of sufficient clarity so
as not to substantially effect vision within the visual field
afforded by an intraocular implant (11).
[0113] Now referring specifically to FIGS. 18, and 36 through 38,
the aperture element (33) can further include one or more radial
slit elements (14) each originating at the aperture element (33)
and terminating at a distance from the outer boundary (13) of the
flexible membrane (12). The one or more radial slit elements (14)
can have sufficient length and width to allow the flexible membrane
(12) to conform to a greater extent with the concavity of the
posterior capsule (5) (or other localized region) of the eye and
with respect to embodiments of the intraocular implant (11) which
are biodegradable can function to promote directional
biodegradation of the intraocular implant proximate the aperture
element toward the outer boundary (13). Again, the radial slit
elements (14) can provide one or more interruptions in the aperture
element (32) which can be of lesser or greater width or length to
control the rate at which the flexible membrane (12) biodegrades
within the posterior capsule (5) of the eye.
[0114] Now referring primarily to FIG. 38, particular embodiments
of the intraocular implant (11) can further provide radial
capillaries (34) which communicate between the outer boundary (13)
and the aperture element (32) of the flexible membrane (12)
configured to allow or facilitate circulation of the fluid within
the eye, for example, between the flexible membrane (12) and the
posterior capsule (5) of the eye.
[0115] Similarly, as shown by FIG. 39, particular embodiments of
the intraocular implant (11) can further provide one or more
corrugate elements (35) which can be disposed in substantially
linear parallel relation to generate undulations in the flexible
membrane (12) sufficient when the flexible membrane (12) locates
against the surface of the posterior capsule (5) (or surface of a
localized region) to provide channels (36) in which the fluids of
the eye can circulate.
[0116] Referring in general to FIGS. 5-39, embodiments of the
intraocular implant can further include an active agent (24)(shown
as stipple pattern in FIGS. 18, 19, and 36 although the invention
is not so limited) mixed with or dispersed in the biodegradable
polymer of the flexible membrane (12). The composition of the
biodegradable polymers of the flexible membrane (12) of the
intraocular implant (11) can be varied to provide a continuous or
substantially continuous release of a therapeutic level of a
particular active agent (24) or a particular mixture of active
agents (24) effective for the ocular condition being treated.
Active agents (24) that can be used include, but are not limited to
(either alone or in combination): ace-inhibitors, endogenous
cytokines, agents that influence the basement membrane, agents that
influence the growth of endothelial or epithelial cells, adrenergic
agonists or blockers, cholinergic agonists or blockers, aldose
reductase inhibitors, analgesics, anesthetics, antiallergics,
anti-inflammatory agents, antihypertensives, pressors,
antibacterials, antivirals, antifungals, antiprotozoals,
anti-infectives, antitumor agents, antimetabolites such as
daunomycin, antiangiogenic agents, tyrosine kinase inhibitors,
antibiotics such as aminoglycosides such as gentamicin, kanamycin,
neomycin, and vancomycin; amphenicols such as chloramphenicol;
cephalosporins, such as cefazolin HCl; penicillins such as
ampicillin, penicillin, carbenicillin, oxycillin, methicillin;
lincosamides such as lincomycin; polypeptide antibiotics such as
polymixin and bacitracin; tetracyclines such as tetracycline,
minocycline, and doxycycline; quinolones such as ciprofloxacin,
moxifloxacin, gatifloxacin, and levofloxacin; sulfonamides such as
chloramine T; sulfones such as sulfanilic acid; anti-viral drugs
such as acyclovir, gancyclovir, vidarabine, azidothymidine,
dideoxyinosine, dideoxycytosine; epinephrine; isoflurphate;
adriamycin; bleomycin; mitomycin; ara-C; actinomycin D;
scopolamine; and the like, analgesics, such as codeine, morphine,
ketorolac, naproxen, an anesthetic, lidocaine; beta.-adrenergic
blocker or beta.-adrenergic agonist such as ephedrine, and
epinephrine; aldose reductase inhibitor such as epalrestat,
ponalrestat, sorbinil, tolrestat; antiallergic such as cromolyn,
beclomethasone, dexamethasone, and flunisolide; colchicine,
anihelminthic agents such as ivermectin and suramin sodium;
antiamebic agents such as chloroquine and chlortetracycline; and
antifungal agents such as amphotericin; anti-angiogenesis compounds
such as anecortave acetate; retinoids such as Tazarotene,
anti-glaucoma agents such as brimonidine (Alphagan and Alphagan P),
acetozolamide, bimatoprost (Lumigan), timolol, mebefunolol;
memantine; alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists;
2-methoxyestradiol; anti-neoplastics such as vinblastine,
vincristine, interferons; alpha, beta and gamma., antimetabolites
such as folic acid analogs, purine analogs, and pyrimidine analogs;
immunosuppressants such as azathyprine, cyclosporine and
mizoribine; miotic agents, such as carbachol, mydriatic agents such
as atropine, etc., protease inhibitors such as aprotinin, camostat,
gabexate, vasodilators such as bradykinin, epidermal growth factor,
basic fibroblast growth factor, nerve growth factors, steroidal
anti-inflammatory agents such as 21-acetoxypregnenolone,
alclometasone, algestone, amcinonide, beclomethasone,
betamethasone, budesonide, chloroprednisone, clobetasol,
clobetasone, clocortolone, cloprednol, corticosterone, cortisone,
cortivazol, deflazacort, desonide, desoximetasone, dexamethasone,
diflorasone, diflucortolone, difluprednate, enoxolone, fluazacort,
flucloronide, flumethasone, flunisolide, fluocinolone acetonide,
fluocinonide, fluocortin butyl, fluocortolone, fluorometholone,
fluperolone acetate, fluprednidene acetate, fluprednisolone,
flurandrenolide, fluticasone propionate, formocortal, halcinonide,
halobetasol propionate, halometasone, halopredone acetate,
hydrocortamate, hydrocortisone, loteprednol etabonate, mazipredone,
medrysone, meprednisone, methylprednisolone, mometasone furoate,
paramethasone, prednicarbate, prednisolone, prednisolone
25-diethylamino-acetate, prednisolone sodium phosphate, prednisone,
prednival, prednylidene, rimexolone, tixocortol, triamcinolone,
triamcinolone acetonide, triamcinolone benetonide, triamcinolone
hexacetonide; vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors such as
bevacizumab, ranibisumab, pegatanib; transforming growth factor
inhibitors; fibroblast growth factor inhibitors, and any of their
derivatives.
[0117] As to particular embodiments of the inventive intraocular
implant the active agent (24) can be dispersed throughout the
biocompatible biodegradable polymer of the flexible membrane (12)
by mixing the active agent (24) into the melted biodegradable
polymer and then solidifying the resulting biodegradable polymer by
cooling, having the active agent (24) substantially uniformly
dispersed throughout. The biodegradable polymer or mixture of
biodegradable polymers can be selected to have a melting point that
is below the temperature at which the active agent (24) becomes
reactive or degrades. Alternatively, the active agent (24) can be
dispersed throughout the biodegradable polymer by solvent casting,
in which the biodegradable polymer is dissolved in a solvent, and
the active agent (24) dissolved or dispersed in the solution. The
solvent is then evaporated, leaving the active agent (24) in the
polymeric matrix of the biodegradable material. Solvent casting
requires that the biodegradable polymer be soluble in organic
solvents. Alternatively, the biodegradable intraocular implant (11)
can be placed in a solvent having a concentration of the active
agent (24) dissolved and in which the biodegradable intraocular
implant swells. Swelling of the biodegradable intraocular implant
draws in an amount of the active agent (24). The solvent can then
be evaporated leaving the active agent (24) within the flexible
membrane (12) of the biodegradable intraocular implant (12). As to
each method of dispersing the active agent (24) through out the
biodegradable polymer of the flexible membrane (12), therapeutic
levels of active agent (24) can be included in biocompatible
biodegradable polymer to treat a particular ocular condition. The
biodegradable polymer usually comprises at least about 10, at least
about 20, at least about 30, at least about 40, at least about 50,
at least about 60, at least about 70, at least about 80, or at
least about 90 weight percent of the implant with the balance of
the weight being the active agent (24) or other non-active agents
(37) dispersed in the biocompatible biodegradable polymer (shown as
open stipples in FIGS. 9 and 13; however, the non-active agents are
not limited to these particular embodiments of the flexible
membrane (12)).
[0118] Other non-active agents (37) may be included in the
biocompatible biodegradable polymer formulation for a variety of
purposes. For example, buffering agents and preservatives may be
employed. Preservatives which may be used include, but are not
limited to, sodium bisulfite, sodium bisulfate, sodium thiosulfate,
benzalkonium chloride, chlorobutanol, thimerosal, phenylmercuric
acetate, phenylmercuric nitrate, methylparaben, polyvinyl alcohol
and phenylethyl alcohol. Examples of buffering agents that may be
employed include, but are not limited to, sodium carbonate, sodium
borate, sodium phosphate, sodium acetate, sodium bicarbonate, and
the like, as approved by the FDA for the desired route of
administration. Electrolytes such as sodium chloride and potassium
chloride may also be included in the formulation.
[0119] A non-limiting example of producing biodegradable
embodiments the inventive intraocular implant for treating an
ocular condition such as PCO can be made by mixing an active agent
(24) and biodegradable polymer to form an active agent polymer
material. The active agent polymer material can be extruded or
molded to form embodiments of the biocompatible biodegradable
intraocular implant (11) or flexible membrane (12) having active
agent release characteristics at a therapeutic level. As but one
non-limiting example, the intraocular implant (11) can
substantially continuously release active agent (24) to provide a
localized concentration of alkylphosphocholine at therapeutic
levels of about 0.5 mM to 1.5 mM for at least 5 days or release
mitomycin-C to provide a localized concentration of 0.04 mg/mL, or
both, for a period of at least about five days to inhibit or
prevent PCO. It is to be understood that this specific example of
providing an embodiment of an intraocular implant (11) for the
inhibition or prevention of PCO, is not intended to be limiting,
and embodiments of the intraocular implant (11) can be utilized to
treat a wide range of ocular conditions including posterior ocular
conditions or anterior chamber conditions of the eye.
[0120] Embodiments of the biocompatible flexible membrane (12) or
the biocompatible biodegradable flexible membrane (12) can be made
by a variety of methods, and while not particularly limited,
examples of molding methods which can be used to form a film or
sheet includes T-die molding, inflation molding, calender molding,
heat press molding, spin cast molding, injection molding, cast
molding, or the like.
[0121] The inventive intraocular implant (11) of a biodegradable
polymer of the invention can be molded in thinner thickness in
order to increase biodegradability, but its thickness can be freely
adjusted to satisfy strength, flexibility and release of active
agents (24) to achieve therapeutically effective levels localized
to the site of implantation of the intraocular implant. Thickness
of the flexible membrane can be in the range of about 5 .mu.m to
about 300 .mu.m, or about 10 .mu.m to 100 .mu.m. Elastic modulus of
the flexible can generally be 1,200 MPa or less, more preferably
600 MPa or less. Tensile strength can fall in the range of about 10
MPa to 100 MPa, more preferably in a range of 15 MPa to 70 MPa,
further more preferably in a range of 20 MPa to 50 MPa.
[0122] Again referring primarily to FIGS. 1-4, as above described
the most common surgical technique of cataract surgery may be ECCE
(although use of the inventive intraocular implant (11) is not
limited to cataract surgery or to any particular technique of
cataract surgery) which involves the creation of a circular opening
(44) in the anterior lens capsule (43) through which the opacified
lens (3) can be removed. The remaining portion of the lens capsule
(45), anchored to the ciliary body (6) through the zonular fibers
(7) can be left intact. The IOL (8) can then be placed within the
lens capsule (45). The IOL (8) can be acted on by zonular forces
exerted on the outer circumference of the lens capsule (45) which
establishes the location of the IOL (8) within the lens capsule
(45). The intact posterior capsule (5) acts as a barrier to the
vitreous humor (9).
[0123] Now referring primarily to FIGS. 40 through 42, following
cataract extraction and cortex removal by ECCE or other surgical
procedures to treat other ocular conditions, embodiments of the
biocompatible or biocompatible biodegradable intraocular implant
(11) can be held in forceps (38) as shown for example in FIG. 40.
Embodiments of the intraocular implant (11) may also be removably
fixed to the surface of a small card (41)(or intraocular implant
packaging substrate) from which it can be lifted with the forceps
(38) prior to insertion into the eye as shown for example in FIGS.
41 and 42. The intraocular implant (11) can be folded upon itself
to reduce the apparent dimension for passage through the corneal or
scleral incision (42) as well as circular opening (44) in the
anterior lens capsule (43) surrounded by the pupil (39) of the iris
(40), as shown in FIGS. 40-42.
[0124] Now referring specifically to FIG. 42, which provides an
example of a non-limiting method, the intraocular implant (11) can
be positioned within localized region of the lens capsule (45)
having a front surface (18) (which can further provide patterned
surface elements (20) as above described) proximate the surface or
engaging the surface of the posterior capsule (5). The passage
opening (33), of embodiments of the intraocular implant (11) which
provide an aperture element (32), can be aligned with the visual
axis of the eye (21) to provide a line of sight which passes
through the passage opening (33) of the intraocular implant (11)
(or the first annular zone or the second annular zone of the
intraocular implant). The IOL (8) can then be located inside the
lens capsule (45) by conventional methods to overlay the
intraocular implant (11) placed in the cavity of the posterior
capsule (5).
[0125] As a non-limiting example, FIG. 43 shows the IOL (8)
overlying the intraocular implant (11) with the passage opening
(33) of the aperture element (32) centered underneath the IOL (8).
If centration of the intraocular implant (11) is not adequate, it
can be readily manipulated into position with a Sinskey Hook or
similar instrument. Once implanted into the eye, particular
embodiments of the biocompatible biodegradable intraocular implant
(12) can biodegrade as above described with normal turnover of the
fluid of the eye.
[0126] Now referring primarily to FIG. 44, a non-limiting example
of an embodiment of the intraocular implant (11) shown in FIGS. 6
and 11 having an annular member (74) can be placed in the cavity of
the posterior capsule (5) with the edge (80) of the annular member
(74) located proximate the perimeter of the sulcus (81) of the lens
capsule (45). The IOL (8) can be located in the lens capsule (45)
by conventional methods to overlay the intraocular implant (11)
with the haptics (10) engaged with the inside surface (77) of the
annular member (74) and the lens of the IOL (8) substantially
centered with the visual axis (21).
[0127] Now referring primarily to FIG. 45, a non-limiting example
of a one-piece intraocular implant (11) as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13
can be placed in the cavity of the posterior capsule (5) with the
edge (80) of the annular member (74) located proximate the sulcus
of the lens capsule (45). The one piece IOL (8) can be located in
the lens capsule (45) by conventional methods to align the lens of
the one piece IOL (8) with the visual axis (21).
[0128] Now referring primarily to FIG. 45, in those surgical
procedures in which the natural crystalline lens (3) is not removed
such as retinal surgery, cornea transplant surgery, glaucoma
surgery, or the like, or in cataract surgery in which the
intraocular implant (11) is not located posterior the IOL (8) (for
example, due to posterior capsule tear), the intraocular implant
(12) can be placed anterior to the natural lens (3) or the IOL (8)
within the ciliary sulcus.
[0129] Now referring primarily to FIGS. 47 and 48, the invention
can further include a intraocular implant packaging substrate (41)
on which embodiments of the inventive intraocular implant (11) can
be releasably fixed. The intraocular implant (11) can be removed by
manipulation with forceps (38) for use in various applications as
above described.
[0130] As can be easily understood from the foregoing, the basic
concepts of the present invention may be embodied in a variety of
ways. The invention involves numerous and varied embodiments of an
intraocular implant (11) which as to particular embodiments can be
used but is not limited to control of migration of residual lens
epithelial cells between the posterior surface of an IOL (8) and
the surface of the posterior capsule (5) of the eye to reduce
opacification of the posterior capsule (5).
[0131] As such, the particular embodiments or elements of the
invention disclosed by the description or shown in the figures or
tables accompanying this application including the best mode are
not intended to be limiting, but rather exemplary of the numerous
and varied embodiments generically encompassed by the invention or
equivalents encompassed with respect to any particular element
thereof. In addition, the specific description of a single
embodiment or element of the invention may not explicitly describe
all embodiments or elements possible; many alternatives are
implicitly disclosed by the description and figures.
[0132] It should be understood that each element of an apparatus or
each step of a method may be described by an apparatus term or
method term. Such terms can be substituted where desired to make
explicit the implicitly broad coverage to which this invention is
entitled. As but one example, it should be understood that all
steps of a method may be disclosed as an action, a means for taking
that action, or as an element which causes that action. Similarly,
each element of an apparatus may be disclosed as the physical
element or the action which that physical element facilitates. As
but one example, the disclosure of "an implant" should be
understood to encompass disclosure of the act of
"implanting"--whether explicitly discussed or not--and, conversely,
were there effectively disclosure of the act of "implanting", such
a disclosure should be understood to encompass disclosure of "an
implant" and even a "means for implanting." Such alternative terms
for each element or step are to be understood to be explicitly
included in the description.
[0133] In addition, as to each term used it should be understood
that unless its utilization in this application is inconsistent
with such interpretation, common dictionary definitions should be
understood to included in the description for each term as
contained in the Random House Webster's Unabridged Dictionary,
second edition, each definition hereby incorporated by
reference.
[0134] Thus, the applicant(s) should be understood to claim at
least: i) each of the intraocular implants herein disclosed and
described, ii) the related methods disclosed and described, iii)
similar, equivalent, and even implicit variations of each of these
devices and methods, iv) those alternative embodiments which
accomplish each of the functions shown, disclosed, or described, v)
those alternative designs and methods which accomplish each of the
functions shown as are implicit to accomplish that which is
disclosed and described, vi) each feature, component, and step
shown as separate and independent inventions, vii) the applications
enhanced by the various systems or components disclosed, viii) the
resulting products produced by such systems or components, ix)
methods and apparatuses substantially as described hereinbefore and
with reference to any of the accompanying examples, x) the various
combinations and permutations of each of the previous elements
disclosed.
[0135] The background section of this patent application provides a
statement of the field of endeavor to which the invention pertains.
This section may also incorporate or contain paraphrasing of
certain United States patents, patent applications, publications,
or subject matter of the claimed invention useful in relating
information, problems, or concerns about the state of technology to
which the invention is drawn toward. It is not intended that any
United States patent, patent application, publication, statement or
other information cited or incorporated herein be interpreted,
construed or deemed to be admitted as prior art with respect to the
invention.
[0136] The claims set forth in this specification, if any, are
hereby incorporated by reference as part of this description of the
invention, and the applicant expressly reserves the right to use
all of or a portion of such incorporated content of such claims as
additional description to support any of or all of the claims or
any element or component thereof, and the applicant further
expressly reserves the right to move any portion of or all of the
incorporated content of such claims or any element or component
thereof from the description into the claims or vice-versa as
necessary to define the matter for which protection is sought by
this application or by any subsequent application or continuation,
division, or continuation-in-part application thereof, or to obtain
any benefit of, reduction in fees pursuant to, or to comply with
the patent laws, rules, or regulations of any country or treaty,
and such content incorporated by reference shall survive during the
entire pendency of this application including any subsequent
continuation, division, or continuation-in-part application thereof
or any reissue or extension thereon.
[0137] The claims set forth in this specification, if any, are
further intended to describe the metes and bounds of a limited
number of the preferred embodiments of the invention and are not to
be construed as the broadest embodiment of the invention or a
complete listing of embodiments of the invention that may be
claimed. The applicant does not waive any right to develop further
claims based upon the description set forth above as a part of any
continuation, division, or continuation-in-part, or similar
application.
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