U.S. patent application number 17/499656 was filed with the patent office on 2022-02-03 for lacrimal implant detection.
This patent application is currently assigned to Mati Therapeutics, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Mati Therapeutics, Inc.. Invention is credited to Stephen Boyd, Christopher V. Cardenas, Eugene de Juan, Tommy Jewell, Lorrie Ma, Tuan Nguyen, Cary J. Reich.
Application Number | 20220031507 17/499656 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005900784 |
Filed Date | 2022-02-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220031507 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
de Juan; Eugene ; et
al. |
February 3, 2022 |
LACRIMAL IMPLANT DETECTION
Abstract
This document discusses, among other things, an apparatus
comprising a lacrimal implant insertable at least partially into a
lacrimal punctum. The lacrimal implant comprises an implant core,
and an implant body. The implant body includes a cavity sized and
shaped to receive the implant core. At least one of the implant
core and the implant cavity includes a detection device configured
to allow automatic detection of the lacrimal implant with a
separate detector device.
Inventors: |
de Juan; Eugene; (San
Francisco, CA) ; Boyd; Stephen; (Murrieta, CA)
; Reich; Cary J.; (Los Gatos, CA) ; Cardenas;
Christopher V.; (Redwood City, CA) ; Jewell;
Tommy; (Albuquerque, NM) ; Ma; Lorrie; (San
Jose, CA) ; Nguyen; Tuan; (San Jose, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Mati Therapeutics, Inc. |
Austin |
TX |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Mati Therapeutics, Inc.
Austin
TX
|
Family ID: |
1000005900784 |
Appl. No.: |
17/499656 |
Filed: |
October 12, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14690874 |
Apr 20, 2015 |
11141312 |
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17499656 |
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12231987 |
Sep 5, 2008 |
9011361 |
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14690874 |
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61050901 |
May 6, 2008 |
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60970807 |
Sep 7, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01R 33/0213 20130101;
A61B 5/0031 20130101; A61L 31/044 20130101; A61L 2300/404 20130101;
A61L 31/16 20130101; A61F 9/00772 20130101; A61B 2562/08 20130101;
A61L 31/06 20130101; A61F 2250/0096 20130101; A61F 9/0017 20130101;
A61L 2300/43 20130101; A61B 5/411 20130101; G01R 33/072 20130101;
A61F 2250/0068 20130101; A61B 8/0833 20130101; A61L 31/145
20130101; A61L 31/043 20130101; A61B 5/06 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61F 9/00 20060101
A61F009/00; A61B 5/06 20060101 A61B005/06; A61B 5/00 20060101
A61B005/00; G01R 33/02 20060101 G01R033/02; G01R 33/07 20060101
G01R033/07; A61F 9/007 20060101 A61F009/007; A61L 31/04 20060101
A61L031/04; A61L 31/06 20060101 A61L031/06; A61L 31/14 20060101
A61L031/14; A61L 31/16 20060101 A61L031/16 |
Claims
1. An apparatus comprising: a lacrimal implant insertable at least
partially into a lacrimal punctum, the lacrimal implant comprising:
an implant core; and an implant body, wherein the implant body
includes a cavity sized and shaped to receive the implant core, and
wherein at least one of the implant core and the implant cavity
includes a detection device configured to allow automatic detection
of the lacrimal implant with a separate detector device.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detection device includes
a radio frequency identifier (RFID) chip configured to communicate
a detection signal to the detector device.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detection device includes
a luminescent material configured to reflect light to the detector
device.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the luminescent material
includes a quantum dot.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detection device includes
an ultrasonically reflective material configured to reflect
ultrasonic energy to the detector device.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detection device includes
a ferromagnetic material that is capable of retaining a
ferromagnetic property after application and removal of an external
magnetic field, wherein the retained ferromagnetic property is
detectable by the detector device.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detection device includes
a magnetic material to retain a magnetic field detectable by the
detector device, wherein the magnetic material comprises at least
one of magnetite, a metallic powder, a metallic ring, and a carbon
powder.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detection device includes
an electrically conductive material configured to cause a change in
a characteristic impedance of a sensing circuit of the detector
device due to proximity of the lacrimal implant to the sensing
circuit.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detection device includes
at least one of an optical contrast material and a color material
in at least one of the implant core and the implant cavity
configured to optically distinguish the lacrimal implant from a
region of an eye.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detection device includes
a material visible when illuminated with an ultraviolet light
source.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the implant core comprises a
sustained release ocular agent.
12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the implant core includes a
sheath to house the agent, and wherein the detection device is
disposed within the sheath.
13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a biocompatible material of
the implant body includes an agent for sustained release into an
eye.
14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the lacrimal implant
includes a polymeric coating on the outer surface of the implant
body, and wherein polymeric coating includes the agent.
15. An apparatus comprising: a lacrimal implant insertable at least
partially into a lacrimal punctum, the lacrimal implant comprising:
an implant body of biocompatible material, wherein the implant body
includes a detection device configured to allow detection of the
lacrimal implant and to identify at least one attribute of the
lacrimal implant.
16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the detection device
includes a radio frequency identifier (RFID) chip configured to
communicate attribute information to a separate detector
device.
17. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the detection device
includes a color in the lacrimal implant, and wherein the color
identifies the attribute of the lacrimal implant.
18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the detection device
includes a luminescent material, and wherein the luminescent
material reflects the color.
19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the luminescent material
includes a quantum dot.
20. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the detection device
includes a material visible with an ultraviolet light source, and
wherein the detection device identifies the attribute when
illuminated with the ultraviolet light source.
21. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the detection device
includes: a material elutable by the lacrimal implant; and a
bio-erodable surface, wherein the bio-erodable surface elutes the
material to identify the attribute.
22. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the lacrimal implant
comprises a sustained release ocular agent, and wherein the
attribute of the lacrimal implant includes at least one of a type
of the ocular agent, a dose of the ocular agent, and an indication
of when release of the ocular agent is complete.
23. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the attribute includes at
least one of the lacrimal implant manufacturer, the lacrimal
implant manufacturer's lot number, a date the lacrimal implant was
implanted, an expiration date of the implant, an indication of a
location of where the lacrimal implant was implanted, an indication
to identify a physician, and an indication to identify a
patient.
24. An apparatus comprising: a lacrimal implant insertable at least
partially into a lacrimal punctum, the lacrimal implant comprising:
an implant body, wherein the implant body includes a detection
device, and wherein the detection device comprises at least one of:
a ferromagnetic material that is capable of retaining a
ferromagnetic property after application and removal of an external
magnetic field; an ultrasonically reflective material configured to
allow automatic detection of the lacrimal implant with a separate
ultrasonic detector device; and a radio frequency identifier (RFID)
included in the implant body, wherein the RFID is configured to
communicate with a lacrimal implant detector device.
25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the detection device
comprises the ferromagnetic material, and wherein the ferromagnetic
material includes at least one of magnetite, a metallic powder, a
metallic ring, and a carbon powder.
26. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the detection device
comprises the ultrasonically reflective material, wherein the
ultrasonically reflective material is disposed within a
biocompatible material of the implant body, and wherein the
ultrasonically reflective material is configured to cause the
implant body to change shape upon application of ultrasound energy
to the lacrimal implant.
27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the ultrasonically
reflective material includes a piezoelectric material.
28. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein an agent for sustained
release into an eye is disposed within the implant body.
29. A detection system comprising: a light emitting source to
provide incident light to a lacrimal implant; an optical filter
configured to pass light of a specified wavelength range reflected
from a luminescent material of the lacrimal implant; a light
detecting device configured to receive the light passed by the
filter and to produce a responsive electrical signal when
sufficient light is received to indicate proximity of the lacrimal
implant; and an indicator, communicatively coupled to the light
detecting device, to provide a user indication of plug detection
upon receiving the electrical signal.
30. A detection system comprising: a lacrimal implant insertable at
least in part into a lacrimal punctum, the lacrimal implant
comprising an implant body of biocompatible material, wherein the
implant body comprises a ferromagnetic material that is capable of
retaining a ferromagnetic property after application and removal of
an external magnetic field; and a lacrimal implant detector device
comprising: a magnetic field detector circuit; and an indicator
device, communicatively coupled to the magnetic field detector
circuit, configured to provide an indication upon detection of a
magnetic field of the lacrimal implant.
31. A detection system comprising: a lacrimal implant insertable
into a lacrimal punctum, the lacrimal implant comprising: an
implant body of biocompatible material; and an electrically
conductive material within the implant body; and a lacrimal implant
detector device including: a sensing circuit having a
characteristic impedance; a detector circuit configured to detect a
change in the characteristic impedance due to proximity of the
lacrimal implant to the sensing circuit; and an indicator device,
communicatively coupled to the detector circuit, configured to
provide an indication upon detection of the change in the
characteristic impedance.
32. A detection system, comprising: an image sensor; and an image
analyzer circuit, wherein the image analyzer circuit is configured
to detect a location of an image portion having an image contrast
that exceeds the image contrast in other areas of the image by a
threshold image contrast value to provide an indication of whether
an image of portion of a lacrimal implant is in the image.
Description
CLAIM OF PRIORITY
[0001] This non-provisional application claims the benefit of
priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 60/970,807 filed on Sep. 7, 2007, and to U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/050,901 filed on May 6,
2008, the specifications of which are herein incorporated by
reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present application is related generally to implants for
use in people and/or animals, and more specifically to detection of
implants in or near the nasolacrimal drainage system, which are
sometimes referred to as lacrimal implants.
[0003] A variety of challenges face patients and physicians in the
area of eye therapy or treatment. In some instances, it may be
desirable to plug one or more of the punctal ducts with an implant
to alleviate eye problems, for example dry eye. In some instances,
it may be desirable to also include a therapeutic agent with the
implant that is capable of delivery of therapeutic treatment to the
patient over a period of time.
[0004] Some of the problems associated with lacrimal implants, such
as punctal or punctum plugs, are that they are very small and made
of clear or skin colored silicone materials, making them difficult
to see or detect. The lacrimal implants are also easily dislodged
by the patient rubbing the eyes and the patient may not even know
that the insert is missing, thus losing out on any treatment or
therapeutic benefit the implant may provide. Another problem
associated with therapeutic implants is that the patient does not
know when delivery of the therapeutic agent is complete.
[0005] Implants having drugs may also be used for treatments other
than the eye. For example, drug implants may be used for systemic
treatment for cancer, HIV, diabetes, or specific location treatment
of joints and tumors. Once implanted, it is difficult to tell if
the implant has moved or shifted from the implant site, a problem
for specific treatment locations. In addition, it is difficult to
determine what drugs or therapies are used with the implant. For
example, a patient with an implant may forget what drugs are in the
implant, which may interact with other drugs.
[0006] In light of the above, it would be desirable to provide
improved detection of implants that overcome at least some of the
above mentioned shortcomings.
Exemplary Aspects and Features of the Invention
[0007] The present invention is directed generally to the treatment
of tissue, and more specifically the eye, with implants that
include a detection device. In addition, the implant may also be a
therapeutic implant that releases a therapeutic agent to treat the
eye. [0008] 1. An apparatus includes a lacrimal implant insertable
at least partially into a lacrimal punctum. The lacrimal implant
includes an implant core and an implant body. The implant body
includes a cavity sized and shaped to receive the implant core, and
at least one of the implant core and the implant cavity includes a
detection device that allows automatic detection of the lacrimal
implant with a separate detector device. [0009] 2. The apparatus
according to aspect 1, wherein the detection device optionally
includes a radio frequency identifier (RFID) chip configured to
communicate a detection signal to the detector device. [0010] 3.
The apparatus according to aspects 1 and 2, wherein the detection
device optionally includes a luminescent material configured to
reflect light to the detector device. [0011] 4. The apparatus
according to aspects 1-3, wherein the luminescent material
optionally includes a quantum dot. [0012] 5. The apparatus
according to aspects 1-4, wherein the detection device optionally
includes an ultrasonically reflective material configured to
reflect ultrasonic energy to the detector device. [0013] 6. The
apparatus according to aspects 1-5, wherein the detection device of
embodiments 1-6 optionally includes a magnetic material to retain a
magnetic field detectable by the detector device. The magnetic
material comprises at least one of magnetite, a metallic powder, a
metallic ring, and a carbon powder. [0014] 7. The apparatus
according to aspects 1-6, wherein the detection device of
embodiments 1-6 optionally includes a magnetic material to retain a
magnetic field detectable by the detector device. [0015] 8. The
apparatus according to aspects 1-7, wherein the detection device
optionally includes an electrically conductive material configured
to cause a change in a characteristic impedance of a sensing
circuit of the detector device due to proximity of the lacrimal
implant to the sensing circuit. [0016] 9. The apparatus according
to aspects 1-8, wherein the detection device optionally includes at
least one of an optical contrast material and a color material in
at least one of the implant core and the implant cavity configured
to optically distinguish the lacrimal implant from a region of an
eye. [0017] 10. The apparatus of according to aspects 1-9, wherein
the detection device optionally includes a material visible when
illuminated with an ultraviolet light source. [0018] 11. The
apparatus according to aspects 1-10, wherein the implant core
optionally includes a sustained release ocular agent. [0019] 12.
The apparatus according to aspects 1-11, wherein the implant core
optionally includes a sheath to house the agent. The detection
device is disposed within the sheath. [0020] 13. The apparatus
according to aspects 1-12, wherein a biocompatible material of the
implant body optionally includes an agent for sustained release
into an eye. [0021] 14. The apparatus according to aspects 1-13,
wherein, the lacrimal implant optionally includes a polymeric
coating on the outer surface of the implant body, and wherein
polymeric coating includes the agent. [0022] 15. A method includes
forming a lacrimal implant of biocompatible material, forming a
cavity within a body of the lacrimal implant, providing an implant
core within the cavity, wherein the implant core is sized and
configured to provide sustained release of an agent into an eye,
and providing a detection device in at least one of the implant
core and the implant cavity, wherein the detection device is
configured to allow automatic detection of the lacrimal implant
with a separate detector device. [0023] 16. The method according to
aspect 15, wherein the providing a detection device optionally
includes providing at least one of an RFID chip configured to
communicate a detection signal to the detector device, a
luminescent material configured to reflect light to the detector
device, an ultrasonically reflective material configured to reflect
ultrasonic energy to the detector device, a ferromagnetic material
capable of retaining a ferromagnetic property detectable by the
detector device after application and removal of an external
magnetic field, an electrically conductive material configured to
cause a change in a characteristic impedance of a sensing circuit
of the detector device, an optical contrast material configured to
optically distinguish the punctum lug from a region of an eye, a
color material to optically distinguish the lacrimal implant from a
region of the eye, and a material visible when illuminated with an
ultraviolet light source. [0024] 17. The method according to
aspects 15 and 16, wherein the providing a detection device
optionally includes providing the luminescent material, and the
luminescent material optionally includes a quantum dot. [0025] 18.
The method according to aspects 15-17, wherein the providing a
detection device of embodiments 15-17 optionally includes providing
the ferromagnetic material. The [0026] ferromagnetic material
includes at least one of magnetite, a metallic powder, a metallic
ring, and a carbon powder. [0027] 19. The method according to
aspects 15-18, wherein the providing a detection device optionally
includes providing a luminescent material configured to reflect
light to the detector device. The method optionally includes
exposing the lacrimal implant to incident light of a first
wavelength range using a light emitting source, detecting light of
a second wavelength range at a detection device, wherein the
received light is reflected off of the lacrimal implant, and
providing an indication when sufficient reflected light is detected
to indicate proximity of a lacrimal implant. [0028] 20. The method
according to aspect 19, wherein the first wavelength range of
embodiment 19 optionally includes a blue spectrum, and the second
wavelength range optionally includes a green spectrum. [0029] 21.
The method according to aspects 19 and 20, wherein the exposing the
lacrimal implant to incident light optionally includes exposing the
lacrimal implant to incident light of a first wavelength range of
an infrared spectrum, and the detecting light includes detecting
light of a second wavelength range of the infrared spectrum. [0030]
22. The method according to aspects 19-21, wherein the providing an
indication of embodiments 19-21 optionally includes providing an
audible indication. [0031] 23. The method according to aspects
19-22, wherein the providing an indication optionally includes
providing a visual indication. [0032] 24. A method of treating an
eye disorder includes inserting a lacrimal implant into at least
one lacrimal punctum of the subject and detecting the detection
device of the lacrimal implant with the separate detector device.
The lacrimal implant includes an implant body of biocompatible
material, wherein the implant body includes a cavity extending
inward into the implant body from an end of the implant body, an
implant core sized and configured to provide sustained release of
an agent into an eye, wherein the implant core is carried within
the cavity of the implant body, and wherein at least one of the
implant core and the implant cavity includes a detection device
configured to allow automatic detection of the lacrimal implant
with a separate detector device, and a supply of the agent disposed
in the implant core, the supply configured to provide the sustained
release of the agent. [0033] 25. The method according to aspect 24,
wherein the agent optionally includes an agent to treat a glaucoma
disease. [0034] 26. The method according to aspects 24 and 25,
wherein the agent optionally includes an agent to treat at least
one of ocular hypertension or primary open angle glaucoma. [0035]
27. An apparatus includes a lacrimal implant insertable at least
partially into a lacrimal punctum. The lacrimal implant includes an
implant body of biocompatible material. The implant body includes a
detection device configured to allow detection of the lacrimal
implant and to identify at least one attribute of the lacrimal
implant. [0036] 28. The apparatus according to aspect 27, wherein
the detection device optionally includes a radio frequency
identifier (RFID) chip to communicate attribute information to a
separate detector device. [0037] 29. The apparatus according to
aspects 27 and 28, wherein the detection device optionally includes
a color in the lacrimal implant. The color identifies the attribute
of the lacrimal implant. [0038] 30. The apparatus according to
aspects 27-29, wherein the detection device optionally includes a
luminescent material, and the luminescent material reflects the
color. [0039] 31. The apparatus according to aspects 27-30, wherein
the luminescent material of embodiments 27-30 optionally includes a
quantum dot. [0040] 32. The apparatus according to aspects 27-31,
wherein the detection device optionally includes a material visible
with an ultraviolet light source, and the detection device
identifies the attribute when illuminated with the ultraviolet
light source. [0041] 33. The apparatus according to aspects 27-32,
wherein the detection device optionally includes a material
elutable by the lacrimal implant and a bio-erodable surface. The
bio-erodable surface elutes the material to identify the attribute.
[0042] 34. The apparatus according to aspects 27-33, wherein the
lacrimal implant optionally has a sustained release ocular agent,
and the attribute of the lacrimal implant includes at least one of
a type of the ocular agent, a dose of the ocular agent, and an
indication of when release of the ocular agent is complete. [0043]
35. The apparatus according to aspects 27-34, wherein the
identifiable attribute optionally includes at least one of the
lacrimal implant manufacturer, the lacrimal implant manufacturer's
lot number, a date the lacrimal implant was implanted, an
expiration date of the implant, an indication of a location of
where the lacrimal implant was implanted, an indication to identify
a physician, and an indication to identify a patient. [0044] 36. A
method includes forming a lacrimal implant of biocompatible
material, wherein the punctum plug includes an implant body, and
disposing a detection device in the implant body wherein the
detection device is configured to allow detection of the lacrimal
implant and to identify at least one attribute of the lacrimal
implant. [0045] 37. The method according to aspect 36, wherein the
disposing a detection device of embodiment 36 optionally includes
at least one of an RFID chip configured to communicate attribute
information to a separate detector device, a color in the lacrimal
implant, and wherein the color identifies the attribute of the
lacrimal implant, a luminescent material, and wherein a color
reflected by the luminescent material identifies the attribute, a
material visible with an ultraviolet light source, and wherein the
detection device identifies the attribute when illuminated with the
ultraviolet light source, and a material elutable by the lacrimal
implant; and wherein the elutable material identifies the
attribute. [0046] 38. The method according to aspects 36 and 37,
optionally including providing a sustained release ocular agent in
the lacrimal implant, and wherein the detection device is
configured to allow identification of at least one of a type of the
ocular agent, a dose of the ocular agent, and an indication of when
release of the ocular agent is complete. [0047] 39. The method
according to aspects 36-38, wherein, the detection device used
optionally allows identification of at least one of the lacrimal
implant manufacturer, the lacrimal implant manufacturer's lot
number, a date the lacrimal implant was implanted, an expiration
date of the implant, an indication of a location of where the
lacrimal implant was implanted, an indication to identify a
physician, and an indication to identify a patient or subject.
[0048] 40. A method for treating an eye disorder includes inserting
a lacrimal implant into at least one lacrimal punctum of a subject,
detecting a detection device included in the lacrimal implant, and
identifying at least one attribute of the lacrimal implant via the
detection device. [0049] 41. The method according to aspect 40,
wherein the detecting a detection device optionally includes
communicating with an RFID chip included in the lacrimal implant,
and wherein identifying the attribute includes communicating
attribute information between the RFID chip and a separate detector
device. [0050] 42. The method according to aspects 40 and 41,
wherein the detecting a detection device optionally includes
detecting a color in the lacrimal implant, and identifying the
attribute includes identifying the attribute using the color.
[0051] 43. The method according to aspects 40-42, wherein the
detecting a color in the lacrimal implant optionally includes
detecting a color reflected by a luminescent material included in
the lacrimal implant. [0052] 44. The method according to aspects
40-43, wherein the detecting a color in the lacrimal implant
optionally includes detecting a color reflected by a quantum dot
included in the lacrimal implant. [0053] 45. The method according
to aspects 40-45, wherein the detecting a detection device
optionally includes detecting a material in the lacrimal implant
visible with an ultraviolet light source, and wherein identifying
the attribute includes identifying the attribute when the material
is illuminated with the ultraviolet light source. [0054] 46. The
method according to aspects 40-45, wherein the detecting a
detection device optionally includes detecting a material elutable
by the lacrimal implant, and wherein identifying the attribute of
the lacrimal implant includes identifying the attribute from the
elutable material. [0055] 47. The method according to aspects
40-46, wherein the lacrimal implant used in the method optionally
includes a sustained release ocular agent, and wherein the
attribute of the lacrimal implant includes at least one of a type
of the ocular agent, a dose of the ocular agent, and an indication
of when release of the ocular agent is complete. [0056] 48. The
method according to aspects 40-47, wherein the identifying the
attribute optionally includes identifying at least one of the
lacrimal implant manufacturer, the lacrimal implant manufacturer's
lot number, a date the lacrimal implant was implanted, an
expiration date of the implant, an indication of a location of
where the lacrimal implant was implanted, an indication to identify
a physician, and an indication to identify a patient. [0057] 49. An
apparatus includes a lacrimal implant insertable at least partially
into a lacrimal punctum. The lacrimal implant includes an implant
body that includes a detection device. The detection device
includes at least one of a ferromagnetic material that is capable
of retaining a ferromagnetic property after application and removal
of an external magnetic field, an ultrasonically reflective
material configured to allow automatic detection of the lacrimal
implant with a separate ultrasonic detector device, and a radio
frequency identifier (RFID) included in the implant body, wherein
the RFID is configured to communicate with a lacrimal implant
detector device.
[0058] 50. The apparatus according to aspect 49, wherein the
detection device of embodiment 49 optionally includes the
ferromagnetic material, and the ferromagnetic material includes at
least one of magnetite, a metallic powder, a metallic ring, and a
carbon powder. [0059] 51. The apparatus according to aspects 49 and
50, wherein the detection device optionally includes the
ultrasonically reflective material. The ultrasonically reflective
material is disposed within a biocompatible material of the implant
body, and wherein the ultrasonically reflective material is
configured to cause the implant body to change shape upon
application of ultrasound energy to the lacrimal implant. [0060]
52. The apparatus according to aspects 49-51, wherein the
ultrasonically reflective material optionally includes a
piezoelectric material. [0061] 53. The apparatus according to
aspects 49-52, wherein an agent for sustained release into an eye
is optionally disposed within the implant body. [0062] 54. A method
of treating an eye disorder includes inserting a lacrimal implant
into at least one lacrimal punctum of the subject and detecting the
lacrimal implant by detecting a detection device with a separate
detector device. The lacrimal implant includes an implant body
having the detection device and a supply of an agent disposed in an
implant core. The supply in the core provides sustained release of
the agent. The detection device includes at least one of a
ferromagnetic material that is capable of retaining a ferromagnetic
property after application and removal of an external magnetic
field, an ultrasonically reflective material configured to allow
automatic detection of the lacrimal implant with a separate
ultrasonic detector device, and a radio frequency identifier (RFID)
included in the implant body that communicates with a lacrimal
implant detector device. [0063] 55. The method according to aspect
54, wherein the agent optionally includes an agent to treat a
glaucoma disease. [0064] 56. The method according to aspects 55 and
56, wherein the agent optionally includes an agent to treat at
least one of ocular hypertension or primary open angle glaucoma.
[0065] 57. A detection system includes a light emitting source to
provide incident light to a lacrimal implant, an optical filter
configured to pass light of a specified wavelength range reflected
from a luminescent material of the lacrimal implant, a light
detecting device configured to receive the light passed by the
filter and to produce a responsive electrical signal when
sufficient light is received to indicate proximity of the lacrimal
implant, and an indicator, communicatively coupled to the light
detecting device, to provide a user indication of plug detection
upon receiving the electrical signal. [0066] 58. The system
according to aspect 57, wherein the light emitting source
optionally provides incident light having a first wavelength range
and the luminescent material reflects the incident light in a
second wavelength range. [0067] 59. The system according to aspects
57 and 58, wherein the light emitting source optionally provides
incident light in a blue spectrum and the luminescent material
reflects the incident light in a green spectrum. [0068] 60. The
system according to aspects 57-59, wherein the light emitting
source optionally provides incident light of a first wavelength
range in an infrared spectrum, and the luminescent material
reflects the incident light in a different second wavelength range
of the infrared spectrum. [0069] 61. The system according to
aspects 57-60, wherein the indicator optionally provides a visual
indication of plug detection. [0070] 62. The system according to
aspects 57-61, wherein the indicator optionally provides an audible
indication of plug detection. [0071] 63. A detection system
includes a lacrimal implant insertable at least in part into a
lacrimal punctum and a lacrimal implant detector device. The
lacrimal implant comprising an implant body of biocompatible
material. The implant body comprises a ferromagnetic material that
is capable of retaining a ferromagnetic property after application
and removal of an external magnetic field. The lacrimal implant
detector device includes a magnetic field detector circuit, and an
indicator device, communicatively coupled to the magnetic field
detector circuit, configured to provide an indication upon
detection of a magnetic field of the lacrimal implant. [0072] 64.
The system according to aspect 63, wherein the magnetic field
detection circuit optionally includes a Hall Effect sensor. [0073]
65. The system according to aspects 63 and 64, wherein the magnetic
field detection circuit optionally includes a comparison circuit,
communicatively coupled to the magnetic field detection circuit, to
provide an electrical signal to the indicator device when a voltage
at an output of the Hall Effect sensor exceeds a first threshold
value. [0074] 66. The system according to aspects 63-65, wherein
the comparison circuit optionally provides the electrical signal to
the indicator device when a voltage at the output of the Hall
Effect sensor exceeds the first threshold value and is also less
than a second threshold value. [0075] 67. The system according to
aspects 63-66, wherein the indicator device optionally provides an
audible indication. [0076] 68. The system according to aspects
63-67, wherein the indicator device of embodiments 63-67 optionally
provides a visual indication. [0077] 69. The system according to
aspects 63-68, wherein the lacrimal implant detector device
optionally includes an elongate housing that includes a proximal
end and a distal end, wherein the magnetic field detection circuit
includes a magnetic field sensor arranged at or near the proximal
end. [0078] 70. The system according to aspects 69, wherein the
indicator device optionally provides a visual indication and is at
a point distal from the magnetic field sensor. [0079] 71. The
system according to aspects 63-70, wherein the lacrimal implant
detection device optionally includes a housing shaped to fit over
an eye of a subject. [0080] 72. A method includes forming a
lacrimal implant of a biocompatible material, providing
ferromagnetic material in the lacrimal implant, and exposing the
lacrimal implant to a magnetic field such that the lacrimal implant
exhibits a ferromagnetic property when no longer exposed to the
magnetic field. [0081] 73. The method according to aspect 72,
wherein the forming a lacrimal implant optionally includes forming
an implant body of the biocompatible material, and the providing
ferromagnetic material in the lacrimal implant includes disposing
the ferromagnetic material within the biocompatible material of the
implant body. [0082] 74. The method according to aspects 72 and 73,
wherein the forming a lacrimal implant optionally includes forming
a cavity within a body of the lacrimal implant, providing an
implant core within the cavity, wherein the implant core is sized
and shaped to provide an agent in an amount sufficient for
sustained release to an eye, and the providing ferromagnetic
material in the lacrimal implant includes providing ferromagnetic
material in the implant core of the lacrimal implant. [0083] 75.
The method according to aspects 72-74, optionally including forming
the implant core with a sheath to house the agent, and the
providing ferromagnetic material in the implant core includes
disposing the ferromagnetic material in the sheath. [0084] 76. The
method according to aspects 72-75, wherein the providing
ferromagnetic material in the lacrimal implant optionally includes
providing magnetite in the lacrimal implant. [0085] 77. A method of
treating an eye disorder includes inserting a lacrimal implant into
at least one lacrimal punctum of the subject and detecting the
ferromagnetic property of the lacrimal implant with a lacrimal
implant detector device. The lacrimal implant includes an implant
body of biocompatible material and a supply of an agent disposed in
the implant core. The supply provides sustained release of the
agent. The implant body comprises a ferromagnetic material that is
capable of retaining a ferromagnetic property after application and
removal of an external magnetic field, a cavity within the implant
body extending inward into the implant body from an end of the
implant body, an implant core within the cavity, wherein the
implant core is sized and shaped to provide the agent in an amount
sufficient for the sustained release to an eye. [0086] 78. The
method according to aspect 77, wherein the agent optionally
includes an agent to treat a glaucoma disease. [0087] 79. The
method according to aspects 77 and 78, wherein the agent optionally
includes an agent to treat at least one of ocular hypertension or
primary open angle glaucoma. [0088] 80. A detection system includes
a lacrimal implant insertable into a lacrimal punctum, and a
lacrimal implant detector device. The lacrimal implant includes an
implant body of biocompatible material, and an electrically
conductive material within the implant body. The lacrimal implant
detector device includes a sensing circuit having a characteristic
impedance, a detector circuit configured to detect a change in the
characteristic impedance due to proximity of the lacrimal implant
to the sensing circuit, and an indicator device, communicatively
coupled to the detector circuit, to provide an indication upon
detection of the change in the characteristic impedance. [0089] 81.
The system according to aspect 80, wherein the electrically
conductive material of embodiment 80 optionally includes
electrically conductive particles disposed within the biocompatible
material of the implant body. [0090] 82. The system according to
aspects 80 and 81, wherein the lacrimal implant of embodiments 80
and 81 optionally includes an implant core comprising a sustained
release ocular agent. The implant body includes a cavity extending
inward into the implant body from an end of the implant body. The
cavity is sized and shaped to receive the implant core, and the
electrically conductive material is disposed within the implant
core. [0091] 83. The system according to aspects 80-82, wherein the
implant core optionally includes a sheath to house the agent, and
wherein the electrically conductive material is disposed within the
sheath. [0092] 84. The system according to aspects 80-83, wherein
the electrically conductive material optionally includes at least
one of steel, silver, gold, and aluminum. [0093] 85. The system
according to aspects 80-84, wherein the sensing circuit optionally
includes a natural response frequency based on the characteristic
impedance, and wherein the detector circuit detects the change in
the characteristic impedance from a shift in the natural response
frequency. [0094] 86. The system according to aspects 80-85,
wherein the characteristic impedance optionally includes a
characteristic inductance, and the detector circuit is configured
to detect a change in the characteristic inductance due to
proximity of the lacrimal implant to the sensing circuit. [0095]
87. The system according to aspects 80-86, wherein the
characteristic impedance optionally includes a characteristic
capacitance, and the detector circuit is configured to detect a
change in the characteristic capacitance due to proximity of the
lacrimal implant to the sensing circuit. [0096] 88. The system
according to aspects 80-87, wherein an agent for sustained release
into an eye is optionally disposed within the implant body. [0097]
89. A method includes providing a lacrimal implant, detecting the
lacrimal implant, without contacting the lacrimal implant, by
detecting a change in a characteristic impedance of a sensing
circuit due to proximity of the lacrimal implant, and providing
information about whether the lacrimal implant is detected to a
user or an automated process. [0098] 90. The method according to
aspect 89, wherein the detecting the change in characteristic
impedance optionally includes detecting a shift in a natural
response frequency of the sensing circuit. [0099] 91. The method
according to aspects 89 and 90, wherein the providing the lacrimal
implant optionally includes providing the lacrimal implant
comprising biocompatible material and an electrically conductive
material disposed within the biocompatible material. [0100] 92. The
method according to aspects 89-91, wherein the providing the
lacrimal implant optionally includes providing a lacrimal implant
comprising a cavity within a body of the lacrimal implant, wherein
the cavity extends inward into the implant body from an end of the
implant body, an implant core within the cavity, wherein the
implant core is sized and configured to provide sustained release
of an agent, and an implant core comprising an electrically
conductive material. [0101] 93. The method according to aspects
89-92, optionally including providing the implant core with a
sheath to house the agent, and providing the electrically
conductive material in the sheath. [0102] 94. A method of treating
an eye disorder includes inserting a lacrimal implant into at least
one lacrimal punctum of a subject and detecting the lacrimal
implant by detecting a change in a characteristic impedance of a
sensing circuit due to proximity of the lacrimal implant to the
sensing circuit. The lacrimal implant includes an implant body of
biocompatible material, wherein the implant body includes a cavity
extending inward into the implant body from an end of the implant
body, an implant core sized and configured to provide sustained,
release of an agent into an eye, wherein the implant core is
carried within the cavity of the implant body, a supply of the
agent disposed in the implant core, the supply configured to
provide the sustained release of the agent, and an electrically
conductive material within the implant body. [0103] 95. The method
according to aspect 94, wherein the agent optionally includes an
agent to treat a glaucoma disease. [0104] 96. The method according
to aspects 94 and 95, wherein the agent optionally includes an
agent to treat at least one of ocular hypertension or primary open
angle glaucoma. [0105] 97. A detection system, includes an image
sensor, and an image analyzer circuit. The image analyzer circuit
detects a location of an image portion having an image contrast
that exceeds the image contrast in other areas of the image by a
threshold image contrast value to provide an indication of whether
an image of portion of a lacrimal implant is in the image. [0106]
98. The system according to aspect 97, wherein the image sensor
optionally includes a digital image sensor included in a camera.
[0107] 99. The system according to aspects 97 and 98, wherein the
detection system optionally includes an infrared light emitter, and
the image sensor includes an infrared image sensor. [0108] 100. A
method of treating an eye disorder includes inserting a lacrimal
implant into at least one lacrimal punctum of the subject,
obtaining an image of the lacrimal punctum region of the subject,
and detecting the lacrimal implant by detecting a location of an
image portion having an image contrast that exceeds the image
contrast in other areas of the image. The lacrimal implant includes
an implant body of biocompatible material, wherein the implant body
includes a cavity extending inward into the implant body from an
end of the implant body, an implant core sized and configured to
provide sustained release of an agent into an eye, wherein the
implant body cavity is sized and shaped to receive the implant
core, and wherein the implant core includes an optical contrast
material to optically distinguish the lacrimal implant from a
region of an eye, and a supply of the agent disposed in the implant
core, wherein the supply to provides the sustained release of the
agent.
[0109] 101. The method according to aspect 100, wherein the agent
optionally includes an agent to treat a glaucoma disease. [0110]
102. The method according to aspects 100 and 101, wherein the agent
optionally includes an agent to treat at least one of ocular
hypertension or primary open angle glaucoma.
[0111] This section is intended to provide an overview of subject
matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to
provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the invention.
The detailed description is included to provide further information
about the present patent application.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0112] FIGS. 1A and 1B show anatomical tissue structures of the eye
suitable for use with various implants, according to embodiments of
the present invention.
[0113] FIG. 2A shows a sectional view of an implant having a core
with a detection agent and a therapeutic agent to treat an eye,
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0114] FIG. 2B shows a side cross-sectional view of the implant of
FIG. 2A.
[0115] FIG. 3A schematically illustrates an implant in the shape of
a punctum plug for use in the eye.
[0116] FIG. 3B shows a side cross-sectional view of the implant of
FIG. 3A.
[0117] FIG. 4 shows a side cross-sectional view of an implant
having a punctum plug and a detection device within the punctum
plug.
[0118] FIG. 5 shows a side cross-sectional view of an implant
having a punctum plug and a detection agent within the punctum
plug.
[0119] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method of
making a device-detectable lacrimal implant.
[0120] FIGS. 7A and 7B show an implant comprising a silicone body,
a core and retention structures, according to embodiments of the
present invention.
[0121] FIGS. 8A and 8B show different embodiments of an implant to
treat an eye that encompasses punctum plugs with a detection device
within.
[0122] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of another embodiment of a method
of making a device-detectable lacrimal implant.
[0123] FIG. 10 shows implants containing detection devices as
applied to the eye.
[0124] FIGS. 11A, 11B are illustrations to explain inducing the
magnetic domains to align in ferromagnetic particles.
[0125] FIG. 12 is a B-H curve used to describe the behavior of
ferromagnetic materials when exposed to magnetization.
[0126] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of an implant detector
device.
[0127] FIG. 14 shows a representation of an embodiment of a signal
output from a Hall Effect sensor after amplification.
[0128] FIG. 15 is an illustration of an embodiment of a housing of
an implant detector device.
[0129] FIG. 16 is an illustration of another embodiment of a
housing of an implant detector device.
[0130] FIG. 17 is a flow diagram of another embodiment of method of
making a device detectable lacrimal implant.
[0131] FIG. 18 is a block diagram of another embodiment of a device
to detect an implant.
[0132] FIG. 19 is a flow diagram of a method of detecting an
implant with a detector device.
[0133] FIG. 20 shows an illustration of another embodiment of a
lacrimal implant.
[0134] FIG. 21 shows an illustration of a sheath of a lacrimal
implant core.
[0135] FIG. 22 is a flow diagram of another embodiment of a method
of making a device detectable lacrimal implant.
[0136] FIG. 23 is a block diagram of another embodiment of an
implant detector device.
[0137] FIG. 24 is a flow diagram of another embodiment of a method
of detecting a lacrimal implant.
[0138] FIG. 25 shows an illustration of another embodiment of a
lacrimal implant.
[0139] FIG. 26 is a block diagram of another embodiment of an
implant detector device.
[0140] FIG. 27 is a flow diagram of another embodiment of a method
of making a detectable implant.
[0141] FIGS. 28 and 28A schematically illustrate an implant system
for correlating implant data and tracking implant usage using radio
frequency identification ("RFID") or other detection
structures.
[0142] FIG. 29 shows the elution of fluorescein and the effect of
surfactant on fluorescein elution, according to embodiments of the
present invention.
[0143] FIG. 30 shows a sectional view of an implant having a core
with a therapeutic agent and a detection device, according to an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0144] FIG. 31 shows one embodiment of a therapeutic implant to
treat a body condition, the implant having a detection device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0145] FIGS. 1A and 1B show anatomical tissue structures of an eye
2 suitable for treatment with implants, according to an embodiment
of the present invention. Eye 2 includes a cornea 4 and an iris 6.
A sclera 8 surrounds cornea 4 and iris 6 and appears white. A
conjunctival layer 9 is substantially transparent and disposed over
sclera 8. A crystalline lens 5 is located within the eye. A retina
7 is located near the back of eye 2 and is generally sensitive to
light. Retina 7 includes a fovea 7F that provides high visual
acuity and color vision. Cornea 4 and lens 5 refract light to form
an image on fovea 7F and retina 7. The optical power of cornea 4
and lens 5 contribute to the formation of images on fovea 7F and
retina 7. The relative locations of cornea 4, lens 5 and fovea 7F
are also important to image quality. For example, if the axial
length of eye 2 from cornea 4 to retina 7F is large, eye 2 can be
myopic. Also, during accommodation, lens 5 moves toward cornea 4 to
provide good near vision of objects proximal to the eye.
[0146] The anatomical tissue structures shown in FIG. 1A also
include the lacrimal system, which includes an upper canaliculus 10
and a lower canaliculus 12, collectively the canaliculae, and the
nasolacrimal duct or sac 14. The upper and lower canaliculae
terminate in an upper punctum 11 and a lower punctum 13, also
referred to as punctal apertures. The punctal apertures are
situated on a slight elevation at the medial end of the lid margin
at the junction 15 of the ciliary and lacrimal portions near the
medial canthus 17. The punctal apertures are round or slightly
ovoid openings surrounded by a connective ring of tissue. Each of
the punctal openings 11, 13 leads into a vertical portion 10a, 12a
of the respective canaliculus before turning horizontally to join
its other canaliculus at the entrance of a lacrimal sac 14. The
canaliculae are tubular and lined by stratified squamous epithelium
surrounded by elastic tissue which permits the canaliculus to be
dilated.
[0147] In the embodiments described herein, the implant is
described as having or including a detection device, or a
detectable device. The detection device may be a physical device, a
signal transmitting surface or material, a component added to the
implant, a detection agent, or it may be a substance or chemical
added to the implant during manufacturing giving it certain
detectable properties. For example, the detection device may be a
detection agent that elutes from the surface of the implant. In
another example, the detection device may include a detection
signal transmitting surface or material. In some embodiments, the
transmitting surface or material may also include a mirrored
portion that can reflect light. In some embodiments, the shape of
the implant may assist in detection, for example, the implant may
change the shape of the cavity and an ultrasound may be used to see
the shape change to determine the location of the implant.
[0148] It should be understood that a detection device may not be
limited to just detection of the presence of the implant, the
detection device may also be an identification device capable of
detection or identification of characteristics, features or
attributes of the implant. Identification of the implant may also
include information on the type of implant, or if a therapeutic
agent is involved, the type of therapeutic agent, etc. In some
embodiments the implant may include a memory device or chip capable
of having information written to it that is readable and/or
writeable by a detection and/or identification reader. The
information may be written either during implant manufacturing or
when implanted, optionally using a data writing structure of a tool
used to insert the implant. Such information may include: the
implant manufacturer, implant manufacturer's lot number, drug or
ocular agent type or drug amount or dose in the implant, expiration
date, date of implant, indication of when release of the drug is
complete, the implanting doctor, an indication of where the implant
was implanted, patient's name or other indication to identify the
patient, or other information helpful in the detection or
identification of the implant. Exemplary systems will facilitate
determination of at least the implant lot number, the
identification of the active drug or drugs included in the implant,
and the total drug quantity or quantities of the implant. The
implant may also include a bio-erodable surface that elutes
material for identification, or may change color and/or lose color
to provide information about the implant. In other embodiments, the
transmitting surface or material may also change shape, such as
having a pop-up portion, to provide information on the implant,
such as when it should be removed or changed.
[0149] FIG. 2A shows a top cross sectional view of an implant 200
to treat an eye having a detection device, according to embodiments
of the present invention. Implant 200 includes a core 210 having a
proximal end 212 and a distal end 214 having a detection agent
therein. In the embodiment shown, the core 210 also includes one or
more therapeutic agents. The core 210 comprises a matrix 270 that
contains first inclusions 260 of the detection agent and second
inclusions 265 of the therapeutic agent. First and second
inclusions 260, 265 may comprise a concentrated form of the agents,
for example a liquid or solid form of the agents, and the agents
may over time dissolve into matrix 270 of core 210. Matrix 270 can
comprise a silicone matrix or the like, and the mixture of the
detection agent and therapeutic agent within matrix 270 can be
non-homogenous. In many embodiments, the non-homogenous mixture
comprises a silicone matrix portion that is saturated with the
detection agent and therapeutic agent and an inclusions portion
comprising inclusions of the detection agent and therapeutic agent,
such that the non-homogenous mixture comprises a multiphase
non-homogenous mixture. In some embodiments, matrix 270
encapsulates inclusions 260, 265, and inclusions 260, 265 may
comprise microparticles have dimensions from about 1 .mu.m to about
100 .mu.m. The encapsulated inclusions dissolve into the
surrounding solid matrix, for example silicone, that encapsulates
the micro particles such that matrix 270 is substantially saturated
with the detection agent and therapeutic agent, while the detection
agent and therapeutic agent are released from the core.
[0150] Core 210 fits within a channel of a sheath body 220 on its
outer diameter and distal end 214. Sheath body 220 is substantially
impermeable to the detection agent and therapeutic agent, so that
the detection agent and therapeutic agent are released from an
exposed surface on the proximal end 212 of core 210 that is not
covered with sheath body 220.
[0151] Implant 200 may be incorporated with other elements or
structures for implantation (see FIG. 5, where the implant is
combined with a punctum plug). In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A,
a retention element 230 may be connected to core 210 and sheath
body 220 to retain the implant 200 in a hollow tissue structure,
for example, a punctum of a canaliculus, as described above.
[0152] An occlusive element 240 may be disposed on and around
retention element 230. Occlusive element 240 is impermeable to tear
flow and occludes the hollow tissue structure and may also serve to
protect tissues of the tissue structure from retention element 230
by providing a more benign tissue-engaging surface. Sheath body 220
includes a sheath body portion 250 that connects to retention
element 230 to retain sheath body 220 and core 210. Sheath body
portion 250 can include a stop to limit movement of sheath body 220
and core 210. The sheath body portion 250 may also have a shape
250B for easier insertion.
[0153] FIG. 2B shows a side cross sectional view of the implant 200
of FIG. 2A. Implant 200 is cylindrical and shown with a circular
cross-section with the core 210 in the center. Sheath body 220
comprises an annular portion disposed on core 210. In the
embodiment shown, retention element 230 comprises several
longitudinal struts that are connected together near the ends of
the retention element. Although longitudinal struts are shown,
circumferential struts can also be used. Occlusive element 240 is
supported by and disposed over longitudinal struts of retention
element 230 and may comprise a radially expandable membrane or the
like. The struts may also be used as a detection device for the
implant.
[0154] The retention element 230 comprises an appropriate material
that is sized and shaped so that the implant can be easily
positioned in the desired tissue location, for example the punctum
or canaliculus. The retention element is mechanically deployable
and typically expands to a desired cross sectional shape, for
example with the retention element comprising a super-elastic shape
memory alloy such as Nitinol.TM.. Other materials in addition to
Nitinol.TM. can be used, for example resilient metals or polymers,
plastically deformable metals or polymers, shape memory polymers
and the like for example spring stainless steel, Eligloy.RTM.,
tantalum, titanium, cobalt chromium to provide the desired
expansion. The retention element may be bio-degradable or
non-biodegradable depending on the desired treatment time and
whether the patient requires physician follow up. This expansion
capability permits the implant to fit in hollow tissue structures
of varying sizes, for example canaliculae ranging from 0.3 mm to
1.2 mm (i.e. one size fits all). Although a single retention
element can be made to fit canaliculae from 0.3 to 1.2 mm across, a
plurality of alternatively selectable retention elements can be
used to fit this range if desired, for example, a first retention
element for canaliculae from 0.3 to 0.9 mm and a second retention
element for canaliculae from 0.9 to 1.2 mm. The retention element
has a length appropriate to the anatomical structure to which the
retention element attaches, for example, a length of about 3 mm or
less for a retention element positioned near the punctum of the
canaliculus.
[0155] Although the sheath body 220 and core 210 are attached to
one end of the retention element 230 as described above, in many
embodiments the other end of retention element is not attached to
core and sheath body so that the retention element can slide over
the sheath body and core while the retention element expands. This
sliding capability on one end is desirable as the retention element
will typically shrink in length as the retention element expands in
width to assume the desired cross sectional width. In addition, the
core of the device may be replaceable with the sheath body
remaining in place. Alternatively, the sheath body may be
replaceable within the retention element to provide for exchange of
the core to replenish the supply of therapeutic agent to the
device.
[0156] The occlusive element 240 comprises an appropriate material
that is sized and shaped so that the implant can at least partially
inhibit, even block, the flow of fluid through the hollow tissue
structure, for example lacrimal fluid through the canaliculus. The
occlusive material shown is a thin walled membrane of a
biocompatible material, for example silicone, that can expand and
contract with the retention element. The occlusive element is
formed as a separate thin tube of material that is slid over the
end of the retention element and anchored to one end of the
retention element as described above. Alternatively, the occlusive
element can be formed by dip coating the retention element in a
biocompatible polymer, for example silicone polymer. The thickness
of the occlusive element can be in a range from about 0.03 mm to
about 0.15 mm, and often from about 0.05 mm to 0.1 mm.
[0157] While the above embodiment was described using a therapeutic
agent with the detection agent, it is envisioned that implant 200
may be used without the therapeutic agent, or that two or more
detection agents may be used in combination.
[0158] The implant core disclosed above comprises detection and
therapeutic agents and materials to provide sustained release of
the detection and therapeutic agents. The detection and therapeutic
agents migrate from the core to the target tissue, for example
tissues of the eye. In some embodiments, the therapeutic agent may
comprise a hydrophobic compound capable of penetrating the tissues
of the eye, for example latanoprost, and the detection agent may
comprise a water soluble compound, for example fluorescein, that is
capable of elution from the core to the front surface of the eye
for detection with limited penetration of the ocular tissues. The
detection and therapeutic agents may optionally be only slightly
soluble in the matrix so that the release rate remains "zero order"
for the lifetime of the release of the detection and therapeutic
agents when dissolved in the matrix and available for release from
the exposed surfaces of the core. As the detection and therapeutic
agents diffuse from the exposed surfaces of the core to the tear or
tear film, the rate of migration from the core to the tear or tear
film is related to the concentration of detection and therapeutic
agents dissolved in the matrixes. In some embodiments, the
concentration of detection and therapeutic agents dissolved in the
core may be controlled to provide the desired rate of release of
the detection and therapeutic agents. In some embodiments the
desired rate of release of the detection agent may be the same as
the desired rate of release of the therapeutic agent. In some
embodiments the desired rate of release of the detection agent may
be different than the desired rate of release of the therapeutic
agent. The detection and therapeutic agents included in the core
can include liquid, solid, solid gel, solid crystalline, solid
amorphous, solid particulate, and/or dissolved forms of the
detection and therapeutic agents. In some embodiments, the core
comprises a silicone matrix containing the detection and
therapeutic agents.
[0159] The core can be made from any biocompatible material capable
of providing a sustained release of the detection and therapeutic
agents. Although the core is described above with respect to
embodiments comprising a matrix with a substantially
non-biodegradable silicone matrix with particles of the agents
located therein that dissolve, the core can include any structure
that provides sustained release of the detection and therapeutic
agents, for example biodegradable matrix, a porous core, liquid
core and solid core. The structures can be adapted to release the
detection agent and therapeutic agent in therapeutic amounts over a
period of time from about one to twelve months after the structure
is inserted into the eye. In some embodiments the release rate for
the detection and therapeutic agents may be the same or similar. In
other embodiments the release rate for the detection and
therapeutic agents may be different, with the therapeutic agent
being released at a higher or lower rate than the detection agent.
In some embodiments, the detection agent is only released when the
therapeutic agent is finished.
[0160] In some embodiments, the detection agent and therapeutic
agent may have separate cores, wherein, a first core may release
the therapeutic agent until it is gone and then a second core
releases the detection agent to let the patient know that the
implant needs to be replaced. In specific embodiments, the second
core may comprise a bio-erodable material over a dye, such that the
erodable material erodes so as to uncover and release the dye when
the first core needs to be replaced. The released dye can be
visible to the patient at a desired interval post implantation. In
a specific embodiment, the patient may wake up with a blue eye and
know that the core needs to be replaced and contact his or her
treating physician, for example about three months after the
implant was placed as determined by the intended erosion time of
the erodable material over the dye.
[0161] FIGS. 3A and 3B schematically illustrate one embodiment of a
lacrimal insert in the shape of a punctum plug 300 for use with an
implant that includes a detection device associated with the
punctum plug 300. The detection device includes any device used to
identify an attribute of the plug 300. In some embodiments, the
attribute may include physical characteristics of the plug, such as
size, shape, or composition of the plug. In other embodiments, the
attribute may include information related to the plug, such the
type or style, when it was implanted, track the serial number, or
other information relevant to the plug.
[0162] Some embodiments of the punctum plugs use different colors
to distinguish the plugs. The punctum plug may be formed with a
color material, or the color may be added, such as a color coating
applied to the punctum plug. In another embodiment, a colored core
may be inserted into a channel of the plug, the colored core having
a different color than the punctum plug, or the colored core have
different colors identifying a physical characteristic, feature or
attribute of the punctum plug 300. The different colors of the
punctum plug and/or core may also be used to identify different
therapeutic agents associated with the punctum plug, when the
punctum plug is used for drug delivery implant, discussed below.
The colors may also identify different compounds, dosage or release
rates of the therapeutic agents. In specific embodiments, a red
plug corresponds to a glaucoma treatment, a green plug corresponds
to an antibiotic treatment, and a blue plug corresponds to an
allergy treatment. Although many dyes can be used to provide the
desired colors, some embodiments may employ spectral encoding with
quantum dots, such that a single excitation wavelength can be used
to stimulate many emission wavelengths, for example blue light used
to stimulate red, orange, yellow and green emissions. In some
embodiments, the detection device is an elutable material. The
attribute of the punctum plug is identified when the material is
eluted into the eye.
[0163] In some embodiments, the detection device may include metal
pieces attached to the punctum plug, such as bands or rings, or a
metallic or carbon powder within the punctum plug. Also, the
detection device may be inserted into a channel of the punctum plug
or formed within the punctum plug.
[0164] The punctum plug 300 includes a collarette 310 at a proximal
end which rests on the exterior of the punctum 11, 13 (see FIG.
1A), a bulb 320 with a tapered portion 325 terminating in a tip 335
at a distal end that blockingly projects into the canaliculus 10,
12 (see FIG. 1A), and a body portion 330 connecting the collarette
310 and the bulb 320. The punctum plug 300 is approximately 2.0 mm
in length. The bulb 320 is designed to prevent the punctum plug 300
from being easily dislodged from the canaliculus 10, 12, and may be
tapered for ease of insertion into the punctum 11, 13. The
collarette 310 is designed to have a diameter to prevent the
punctum plug 300 from completely entering the canaliculus 10, 12,
and is preferably smooth to minimize irritation of the eye 2. The
plug body portion 330 of the punctum plug 300 is essentially a
non-functional connection between the collarette 310 and the bulb
320 portions. The collarette 310 includes a cavity 340 or channel
extending into the body portion 330 into which a detection device
is placed. The size and shape of the cavity 340 is selected to hold
the device in place. In other embodiments, the device is sized to
fit into a typical cavity opening in a punctum plug. In some
embodiments, the detection device is molded into the body. Example
detection devices include a radio frequency identifier (RFID)
device, magnetic or ferromagnetic device, ultrasonic device,
ultraviolet device, infrared device, a detection agent, a
luminescent material, an electrically conductive material, and an
identification agent. In some embodiments, the detection device is
visible. In some embodiments, the detection device may be detected
with a separate detector device.
[0165] In some embodiments, the tip 335 of the punctum plug 300 is
closed, in other embodiments, an opening 350 in the tip 335 at the
distal end allows access to the cavity 340, allowing fluid flow
through the punctum plug 300 (for example, see FIG. 7B). The body
310 may be molded or otherwise formed from a flexible material,
such as silicone, that is biocompatible. The material selected may
also be permeable or impermeable to detection agents placed within
the cavity 340.
[0166] In some embodiments, an optional head structure 315 (see
FIG. 5) is provided over the collarette 310 to enclose the cavity
340. In some embodiments, the head structure 315 is made of the
same material as the body. In some embodiments, the head structure
is made of a biocompatible material, preferably soft and flexible
material, which is permeable to any detection agents that might be
placed in the cavity 340. In some embodiments, when the punctum
plug 300 is in place, detection agents may be deployed from the
cavity 340 through the head structure into the tears of the
lacrimal lake where the agents mix with the tears and allow
detection of the agents.
[0167] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a
lacrimal implant 400 having a punctum plug 300. The punctum plug
300 is insertable at least partially into a lacrimal punctum. The
punctum plug includes a plug body having cavity 340 sized and
shaped to receive a plug core. In some embodiments, the plug core
includes a detection device 410. In some embodiments, the plug core
includes both a detection device 410 and a sustained release
therapeutic agent. In the embodiment shown, a detection device 410
is positioned within the cavity 340 of the punctum plug 300. The
device 410 may be any device that aids in the automatic detection
and/or identification of the implant 400 by a separate detector
device when positioned in the punctal aperture. In some
embodiments, the detection device 410 may be a detection signal
transmitting surface or material, with the signal from the
transmitting surface or material allowing detection of the
implantable body when the transmitting surface or material is
obscured within the punctum. In some embodiments, the detection
device 410 identifies an attribute of the implant from among a
plurality of alternative attributes of implants. In one embodiment,
the transmitting surface or material comprises a radio signal
transmitting surface of an RFID chip capable of detection with a
RFID detector, the signal comprising a radio signal identification
signal. In other embodiments, the signal transmitting surface or
material includes a magnetic signal transmitting surface or
material capable of detection with a magnetic detector or an
echographic surface of an ultrasonically reflective material
capable of detection with an ultrasonic detector.
[0168] RFIDs may be made in very small sizes. For example, Hitachi
has developed the ".mu.-chip" that is 0.4 mm.times.0.4 mm, and they
are currently in development of a RFID chip as small as 0.05
mm.times.0.05 mm. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the RFID may
be inserted into the channel of the punctum plug. The size and
shape of the channel should be sized hold the selected RFID chip in
place, for example, by adhesives or frictional fit. In another
embodiment, the RFID may incorporated into the punctum plug during
plug manufacturing, for example, the RFID chip may be molded into
the plug (see e.g., FIG. 7A). To determine the presence of a RFID
punctal plug, a RFID detection system may be used that can transmit
an audible signal or a light can flash to signify the RFID punctum,
for example, if the RFID punctum is in place. In other embodiments,
the RFID device may also transmit other characteristics of the
implant. If the patient is using the detection system, he/she can
transmit the signal via a cell phone or internet connection to the
clinician.
[0169] Ferromagnetic materials may also be used as detection device
410 in the lacrimal implant. Ferromagnetic materials include any
material capable of detection with a magnetic detection system. In
some embodiments, the ferromagnetic material retains a
ferromagnetic property (e.g., a magnetic field) detectable with the
detector device. The detector device may generate a light flash or
sound when the property is detected. Examples, of ferromagnetic
materials include magnetite, a metallic powder, a metallic ring,
and a carbon powder.
[0170] Ultrasonic materials may also be used as detection device
410 in the lacrimal implant. Ultrasonic materials include any
ultrasonically reflective material capable of detection with an
ultrasonic detection system. The ultrasonic material may be a
piezoelectric material embedded in the plug that when coupled to
the detector device (e.g., placed on the plug using a coupling
medium) would transmit a signal to the user (visual or audible). In
some embodiments, ultrasonic material may reflect incident
ultrasonic energy for detection by the detector device. In some
embodiments, the ultrasonically reflective material causes the plug
body to change shape upon application of ultrasound energy to the
lacrimal implant.
[0171] Luminescent materials may be used as the detection device
410. A luminescent (e.g., a quantum dot) of the punctum plug 300 is
stimulated with a light source. The luminescent absorbs a higher
power/lower wavelength form of light and converts the incident
light into a lower power/higher wavelength form of light which is
emitted or reflected. The lacrimal implant 300 is detected when the
expected higher wavelength form of light is detected by the
detector device.
[0172] Electrically conductive materials may be used as the
detection device 410. In some embodiments, the detector device
includes a sensing circuit. To detect the lacrimal implant 300, the
detector is positioned near the punctum. The electrically
conductive material of the detection device 410 causes a change in
a characteristic impedance of the sensing circuit due to proximity
of the punctum plug to the sensing circuit.
[0173] FIG. 5 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a
lacrimal implant having a punctum plug 500 and detection device
510, such as a core with a detection agent. In the embodiment
shown, the detection device 510 is positioned within the channel
340 of the punctum plug 500. The detection device 510 may be any
device or materials that aids in the detection and/or
identification of the implant 500 when positioned in the punctal
aperture. Examples of suitable detection devices include detection
signal transmitting surfaces or materials, such as materials
visible with an ultraviolet light (UV) source, materials visible
with an infrared light source, materials visible with a visible
light source, or other materials visible with other light sources.
In one embodiment, the detection signal transmitting surface or
material elutes fluorescein from the implant or co-elutes with a
therapeutic agent. In another embodiment, the detection signal
transmitting surface or material includes microdots or quantum dots
that can be visualized using an infrared or UV light source.
[0174] The embodiment of the lacrimal implant 500 shown in FIG. 5
further includes the optional head 315 that is permeable to the
detection agents. In one embodiment, the detection device is core
510, having a detection agent and a therapeutic agent. When the
implant 500 is in place, the agents are deployed from the proximal
end 212 of the core 510 through the permeable head 315 into the
tears of the lacrimal lake where the agents mix, as eye drops do,
with the tears and move to the eye, where they can be detected.
[0175] The detection agent and/or therapeutic agent disclosed may
also be combined with the delivery of therapeutic agents, such as
disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 11/695,537, titled "Drug
Delivery Methods, Structures, and Compositions for Nasolacrimal
Systems"; U.S. application Ser. No. 11/695,545, titled
"Nasolacrimal Drainage System Implants for Drug Therapy"; U.S. App.
No. 60/871,867, titled "Drug Delivery Implants for Inhibition of
Optical Defects"; U.S. App. No. 60/970,709, titled "Nasolacrimal
Drainage System with Implants for Drug Delivery"; and U.S. App. No.
60/970,820, titled "Multiple Drug Delivery Systems and Combinations
of Drugs with Punctal Implants", the full disclosures of which are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
[0176] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method 600 of
making a device-detectable lacrimal implant. At block 605, a
lacrimal implant in the shape of a punctum plug is formed of
biocompatible material. At block 610 a cavity is formed within a
body of the punctum plug. At block 615, a plug core is provided
within the cavity. In some embodiments, the plug core is sized and
configured to provide sustained release of an agent into an eye of
a patient or subject. At block 620, a detection device is provided
in at least one of the plug cavity and the plug core. The detection
device allows automatic detection of the punctum plug with a
separate detector device.
[0177] A device-detectable lacrimal implant can be used in a method
to treat an eye disorder. A lacrimal implant such as a punctum plug
is inserted into at least one lacrimal punctum of the subject. The
punctum plug body includes a cavity extending inward into the plug
body from an end of the plug body. A plug core is carried within
the plug body. The plug core includes a supply of an agent and the
core provides sustained release of the agent into the eye. The
detection device allows automatic detection of the lacrimal implant
with a separate detector device. Detecting the detection device
with the separate detector device provides detection of the
lacrimal implant. In some embodiments, the agent treats a glaucoma
disease. The glaucoma disease may be at least one of ocular
hypertension or primary open angle glaucoma.
[0178] Referring now to FIGS. 7A and 7B, a lacrimal implant, for
example a punctum plug 700, is shown which comprises a silicone
body 710, a detection device 720 and a retention structures 730,
according to embodiments of the present invention. Body 710
comprises a proximal channel 714 sized to receive detection device
720. Body 710 comprises a distal channel 718. Distal channel 718
can be sized to receive a hydrogel rod 732. A partition 719 may
separate the proximal channel from the distal channel. A filament
734 can be embedded in body 710 and wrapped around hydrogel, rod
732 to affix hydrogel rod 732 to body 710. In some embodiments, an
RFID ".mu.-chip" or integrated circuit can be positioned within
silicone body 710, for example molded within partition 719. In some
embodiments, a ".mu.-chip" can be placed in one of the channels
during manufacture of the implant prior to insertion of the drug
core or hydrogel rod, as appropriate.
[0179] In one embodiment, the detection device 720 includes a core,
for example core 210 discussed above. The core insert and
manufacture of the core insert are described in U.S. application
Ser. Nos. 11/695,537 and 11/695,545, the full disclosures of which
are incorporated herein by reference. Although a core insert is
shown, some embodiments may comprises a drug reservoir, a
semi-permeable membrane, a drug coating or the like, as described
in U.S. Pat. No. 6,196,993 in the name of Cohan and U.S. Pat. No.
10,899,416 in the name of Prescott; Ser. No. 10/899,417 in the name
of Prescott; Ser. No. 10/762,421 in the name of Ashton; Ser. No.
10/762,439 in the name of Ashton; Ser. No. 11/571,147 in the name
of Lazar and Ser. No. 10/825,047 in the name of Odrich, the full
disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference for all
purposes.
[0180] Retention structures 730 may comprise hydrogel rod 732,
hydrogel coating 736, protrusions 712 and protrusion 716. Hydrogel
rod 732 can be inserted through the punctum into a canalicular
lumen in a narrow profile configuration. After insertion into the
lumen hydrogel rod 732 and hydrogel coating 736 can hydrate expand
to a wide profile configuration. Protrusions 712 and protrusion 716
can retain implant 700 in the lumen, for example while the hydrogel
coating and rod expand.
[0181] FIGS. 8A and 8B show lacrimal implants 800 and 800' that
encompass punctum plugs incorporating detection devices, according
to an embodiment of the present invention. In the treatment of
ophthalmic ailments where it is desired to prevent or decrease the
drainage of lacrimal fluid and/or medication from the eye, the
punctal aperture in one or both of the upper and lower lids are to
be blocked by implants, two respective embodiments of which are
shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B. Referring initially to the embodiment of
FIG. 8A, the implant 800 has a blunted tip or barb portion 820 at a
distal end, a middle neck or waist portion 830 of somewhat smaller
diameter than the tip, and a smooth disc-like head portion 810 at a
proximal end of relatively larger diameter. The head portion 810 is
provided with a central bore opening 840 adapted to receive the
projecting tip of an inserter tool to provide a releasable grip on
the therapeutic implant as it is manipulated for insertion, as
hereinafter described. Within the plug body is a detection device
850, which may be any of the detection devices described above. The
detection device 850 allows detection of the punctum plug and
identifies an attribute of the punctum plug.
[0182] FIG. 8B shows a hollow lacrimal implant 800' that is of
generally similar dimensions to the first-described embodiment
having a blunted tip or barb portion 820', a middle neck or waist
portion 830' of somewhat smaller diameter than the tip, a smooth
disc-like head portion 810' of relatively larger diameter, a
central bore 840' extending through the plug and a detection device
850', which may be any of the detection devices described above.
The central bore 840' allows fluid flow from a proximal end to
distal end of the implant 800'.
[0183] In some embodiments of the invention, the detection devices
as described herein are incorporated in a punctum plug as described
in U.S. App. Pub. No. 2005/0197614, the full disclosure of which is
incorporated herein by reference. A gel can be used to form the
therapeutic implant 800, 800' and the gel can swell from a first
diameter to a second diameter in which the second diameter is about
50% greater than the first diameter. Along with incorporating the
detection devices, the gel can also be used to entrap therapeutic
agents, for example within a microporous structure in which the
agents are uniformly dispersed, and the gel can slowly elute the
therapeutic agents into the patient. Various therapeutic agents are
described in U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/550,132, entitled
"Punctum Plugs, Materials, And Devices", the full disclosure of
which is incorporated herein by reference, and may be combined with
the gels and devices described herein.
[0184] FIG. 9 shows a flow diagram of another embodiment of a
method 900 of making a device-detectable lacrimal implant. At block
905, a lacrimal implant in the shape of a punctum plug having a
plug body is formed of biocompatible material. At block 910, a
detection device is disposed in the plug body. The detection device
allows detection of the punctum plug and identifies one or more
attributes of the punctum plug. The detection device may be any of
the detection described herein.
[0185] A device-detectable lacrimal implant can be used in a method
of treating an eye disorder. In such a method, a punctum plug is
inserted into at least one lacrimal punctum of a subject. A
detection device included in the punctum plug is detected, and the
device is used to identify at least one attribute of the punctum
plug via the detection device.
[0186] FIG. 10 shows lacrimal implants having detection devices as
applied to the eye. In the embodiment shown, an implant 1000 is
designed for insertion into the lower punctal aperture 13 of the
eye 2, and along the canaliculus 12 communicating with the
aperture. The implant 1000 includes a punctum plug having a
collarette 1010 at a proximal end, a flared portion 1020 at a
distal end, a neck portion 1030 and a detection device 1040. The
collarette 1010 is designed for seating against the aperture 13.
The detection device 1040 may determine if the implant is in the
desired position, and/or if the implant continues to elude
therapeutic agents, as discussed above. Many different detection
devices are contemplated, such as RFID chip, magnetic materials,
ultrasonic materials, microdots, eluting detection agents, such as
fluorescein, and others know in the art. The implant 1000 may be
used to block fluid flow, or may have a hollow portion allowing
fluid flow (for example, see FIG. 8B), depending on the
requirements.
[0187] FIG. 10 further shows a lacrimal implant 1000' containing a
detection device may also have a therapeutic agent, such as implant
200 disclosed herein, that is a substantially cylindrical in shape
that has been inserted into the upper punctum aperture 11, to block
the flow of tears to canaliculus 10. Implant 1000' may also be an
occlusive plug of some inert biocompatible material having the
detection device within, such as implant 800 disclosed herein.
[0188] The implant 1000 and therapeutic implant 1000' can be used
in any desired combination, either separately or in combination
(shown in FIG. 10). For example, implant 1000' can be positioned in
the lower canaliculus and implant 1000 can be positioned in the
upper canaliculus. Alternatively, two of the same implants 1000 or
1000' can be positioned in both canaliculae.
[0189] The detection devices can be detected many different ways.
For example, in some embodiments, the devices may be detected or
viewed 1050 by an eye 1055. In other embodiments, the devices may
communicate 1060 with different detection systems 1065, depending
on the implanted device. For example, the detection system 1065 may
include a RFID detection system to detect a RFID chip, a magnetic
detector system to detect a magnetic material, an ultrasonic
detector system to detect ultrasonically reflective material. In
still other embodiments, the detection devices may include
materials that may be detected 1070 with alternate light sources
1075, such as an ultraviolet light source or an infrared light
source.
[0190] The lacrimal implants containing a detection device can be
used in a method to treat an eye disorder. In such a method, a
lacrimal implant, such as a punctum plug is inserted into at least
one lacrimal punctum of the subject. The body of the punctum plug
includes any of the detection devices described herein. A supply of
an ocular agent is disposed in the core of the punctum plug. The
supply provides the sustained release of the agent. The lacrimal
implant is detected by detecting the detection device with a
separate detector device. In some embodiments, the agent is
configured to treat a glaucoma disease. For example, the glaucoma
disease may include at least one of ocular hypertension or primary
open angle glaucoma.
[0191] To detect a magnetic material, in some examples the
detection device includes a ferromagnetic material disposed within
the body of the lacrimal implant. The ferromagnetic material
retains ferromagnetic properties after removal of an externally
applied magnetic field. In certain embodiments, the ferromagnetic
material includes magnetite (Fe.sub.3O.sub.4).
[0192] In some embodiments, the ferromagnetic material is disposed
within the biocompatible material of the implant body. Magnetic
domains are a common physical trait of ferromagnetic material. By
inducing the magnetic domains of the ferromagnetic material to
align when molded within the biocompatible material of the implant,
the magnetic field of the plug approaches that of the inducing
magnetic field. The lacrimal implant may then be detected with a
magnetic field sensor.
[0193] FIGS. 11A, 11B are illustrations to explain inducing the
magnetic domains to align in ferromagnetic particles. The
illustrations can be found in Ulaby, Fawwaz T., Electromagnetics
for Engineers, 146 (2004). FIG. 11A represents the ferromagnetic
particles 1105 prior to magnetization. The magnetic domains are
randomized. FIG. 11B represents the aligned magnetic domains of the
particles after magnetization through exposure to an external
magnetic field. This alignment is due to coupling forces between
dipole moments of each constituent magnetic domain.
[0194] The behavior of ferromagnetic materials when exposed to
magnetization can also be described using the B-H curve of FIG. 12.
The amplitude of the externally applied field H determines the
total magnetic flux density B within the material. The
un-magnetized state is indicated at the origin as O. The curve
shows that the inducing field causes magnetization of domains to a
maximum saturation, H.sub.max, and B.sub.max, at point A.sub.1.
When the externally applied field H returns to zero, the value of
the flux density of the particles does not return to zero, but is
offset by some hysteresis error B.sub.r at point A.sub.2. This
offset is sometimes referred to as residual flux density. The
ferromagnetic material, and thus the punctum plug, is now similar
to a permanent magnet due to a large number of domains remaining
aligned.
[0195] If the lacrimal implant 1000 of FIG. 10 is a punctum plug
and includes a drug in the punctum plug body, ferromagnetic
particles and the drug may be disposed within the plug body. As
described above, the implant may include a sheath on the outer
surface of the implant. The porosity of the sheath allows the drug
to leach out from the plug but retains the ferromagnetic
particles.
[0196] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a lacrimal implant detector
device 1300. The detector device 1300 detects an implanted punctum
plug or other ocular implant. The detector device 1300 includes a
magnetic field detector circuit 1305 and an indicator device 1310.
The indicator device 1310 provides an indication upon detection of
the magnetic field of the lacrimal implant to a user or automated
process. The magnetic field detector circuit 1305 includes a
magnetic field sensor 1315. In certain embodiments, the magnetic
field sensor 1315 is a Hall Effect sensor. In certain embodiments,
the magnetic field detection circuit 1305 includes an amplifier
circuit 1320 to amplify a voltage output from the magnetic field
sensor 1315.
[0197] In some embodiments, the magnetic field detector circuit
1305 includes a comparison circuit 1325 communicatively coupled to
the magnetic field detection circuit. The communicative coupling
allows the magnetic field sensor 1315 to communicate electrical
signals with the comparison circuit 1325 even though there may be
intervening circuitry (e.g., an amplifier circuit 1320). The
comparison circuit 1325 provides an electrical signal to the
indicator device 1310 when a voltage at an output of the magnetic
field sensor 1315 exceeds a first threshold value. The magnetic
field detector circuit 1305 may include a logic circuit (e.g., a
flip-flop circuit or a latch) to capture a change in output from
the comparison circuit indicating the presence of the magnetic
field of the punctum plug.
[0198] In some embodiments, the comparison circuit 1325 provides
the electrical signal to the indicator device 1310 when a voltage
at the output of the magnetic field sensor 1315 exceeds the first
threshold value and is less than a second threshold value.
[0199] FIG. 14 shows a representation of an example of a signal
1405 output from a Hall Effect sensor after amplification. The
comparison circuit 1325 provides an electrical signal to the
indicator device 1310 when the signal 1405 exceeds the first
threshold value 1410 (2.35V in the example) and is less than the
second threshold value 1415 (2.65V). Returning to FIG. 13, the
detector device 1300 may include a logic circuit 1330 (e.g., a
flip-flop circuit or a latch). The logic circuit 1330 stores the
state (high or low) of the electrical signal from the comparison
circuit 1325.
[0200] In some embodiments, the indicator device 1310 includes a
speaker or transducer. The indicator device 1310 provides an
audible indication when the magnetic field detection circuit 1305
indicates the presence of the magnetic field of the punctum plug.
In some embodiments, the indicator device 1310 includes a light
emitting diode (LED) or display, and provides a visual indication
upon detection of the magnetic field.
[0201] As shown in FIG. 5, the implant body 300 may include a
cavity 340 extending inward into the plug body from an end of the
plug body 300. The cavity 340 is shaped and sized to receive an
implant core 510, or at least a portion of the implant core. The
implant core 510 includes a sustained release ocular agent, such as
to provide therapy to an eye. In some embodiments, the ocular agent
includes a drug. The amount of agent in the plug core 510 is
sufficient for sustained release to an eye over time.
[0202] Ferromagnetic material may be disposed in the implant core
510. The ferromagnetic material of the implant core 510 retains
ferromagnetic properties after removal of an externally applied
magnetic field. In some embodiments, ferromagnetic material is
disposed in both the implant body and in the implant core 510 to
provide a stronger magnetic field. Detecting the lacrimal implant
500 may help determine that the therapeutic agent is still present
and being provided by the implant 500.
[0203] In some embodiments, a magnetic field is induced in the
implant core 510 before insertion into the implant body 500, and in
some embodiments, the magnetic field is induced after the implant
core 510 is inside the implant body 500. In some embodiments, the
outer part of the implant core 510 includes a sheath to house the
agent. The ferromagnetic material is disposed within the
sheath.
[0204] FIG. 15 is an illustration of an embodiment of a housing
1505 of a lacrimal implant detector device 1500. The housing 1505
is shape of a cup and is sized to fit over an eye of a subject. The
magnetic field sensor is arranged within the housing 1505 to detect
the magnetic field of the lacrimal implant when the detector device
1500 is positioned over the eye. The detector device 1500 may
include two LEDs 1510, 1512. The first LED 1510 is illuminated when
the magnetic field of the lacrimal implant is detected. The second
LED is illuminated when no magnetic field is detected. The LEDs may
be different colors. For example, the first LED 1510 may be a green
LED and the second LED 1515 may be a red LED.
[0205] FIG. 16 is an illustration of another embodiment of a
housing 1605 of a lacrimal implant detector device 1600. This
housing 1605 is elongate and has a proximal end 1620 and a distal
end 1625. The magnetic field sensor 1615 is arranged near the
proximal end 1620. This allows the lacrimal implant detection
device 1600 to be held in the hand and used as a wand. LEDs 1610,
1612 are positioned at a point distal from the magnetic field
sensor 1615 to allow the user to see the visual indication of
whether the lacrimal implant is detected while the wand is held
near the eye.
[0206] FIG. 17 is a flow diagram of a method of 1700 making a
device-detectable lacrimal implant. At block 1705, a lacrimal
implant, such as a punctum plug, is formed of a biocompatible
material. At block 1710, ferromagnetic material is provided in the
punctum plug. In certain embodiments, the ferromagnetic material is
disposed in the biocompatible material. In certain embodiments, the
ferromagnetic material is provided in an implant core within a
cavity formed in a body of the punctum plug. In certain
embodiments, the implant core includes a sheath to house an ocular
agent and the ferromagnetic material is included in the sheath. In
certain embodiments, the ferromagnetic material is provided in both
the biocompatible material of the plug body and is provided in the
plug core. At block 1715 the punctum plug is exposed to a magnetic
field such that the lacrimal implant exhibits ferromagnetic
properties when no longer exposed to the magnetic field.
[0207] The device-detectable lacrimal implant can be used to in a
method of treating an eye disorder. In such a method, a lacrimal
implant with the ferromagnetic material is inserted into at least
one lacrimal punctum of the subject. A supply of a therapeutic
agent is disposed in the implant core to provide sustained release
of the agent. In certain embodiments, the agent is used to treat
glaucoma, such as one or both of ocular hypertension and primary
open angle glaucoma. The ferromagnetic property of the inserted
lacrimal implant is detected with a lacrimal implant detector
device.
[0208] If the detection device includes an electrically conductable
material, impedance sensing can be used for lacrimal implant
detection. Examples of electrically conductable material include,
among other things, steel, silver, aluminum, and gold. The
electrically conductive material may be provided as particles
within the biocompatible material.
[0209] If the lacrimal implant includes an agent in the punctum
plug body, particles of electrically conductive material and the
agent may be disposed within the plug body. The lacrimal implant
may include a sheath on the outer surface of the lacrimal implant
that allows the agent to leach out from the implant but retains the
electrically conductive particles.
[0210] In some embodiments, the lacrimal implant includes an
implant core as shown in FIG. 5, and the electrically conductive
material is included in the implant core. The electrically
conductive material may be within the implant core or at the
surface of the implant core, such as by including the electrically
conductive material within a sheath used to house the therapeutic
agent.
[0211] FIG. 18 is a block diagram of another embodiment of a device
1800 to detect a lacrimal implant. The lacrimal implant detector
device 1800 includes a sensing circuit 1805, a detector circuit
1825, and an indicator device 1810. The sensing circuit 1805
includes an inductance and/or a capacitance that gives the sensing
circuit 1805 a characteristic impedance. The impedance gives the
sensing circuit a natural response frequency at which it operates.
For example, the sensing circuit may be a tank circuit that
oscillates at this frequency. When the sensing circuit 1805 is at
or near the lacrimal implant, the electrically conductive material
changes the characteristic impedance of the sensing circuit 1805,
causing a shift in the natural frequency.
[0212] If the characteristic impedance of the sensing circuit 1805
is formed by one or more inductors, the conductive material
disturbs the characteristic inductance of the sensing circuit 1805
to cause the shift in frequency. If the sensing circuit 1805 is
formed by one or more capacitors, the proximity of the lacrimal
implant changes the dielectric of the capacitance to cause the
shift in frequency. This may be due to the dielectric of the
material (e.g., aluminum) or from water included in the
biocompatible material.
[0213] The detection circuit 1825 detects the change in
characteristic impedance (e.g., by detecting a shift in the natural
frequency). If a change is detected, the detector circuit 1825
provides an indication of the change to the indicator device 1810.
The indicator device 1810 provides one or more of an audible
indication or a visual indication upon detection of the change in
the characteristic impedance due to the electrical conductivity of
the lacrimal implant.
[0214] FIG. 19 is a flow diagram of a method 1200 of detecting a
lacrimal implant with a detector device. At block 1905, a lacrimal
implant, such as a punctum plug, is provided. At block 1910, the
punctum plug is detected by detecting a change in a characteristic
impedance of a sensing circuit due to proximity of the punctum
plug. In some embodiments, the detected change in characteristic
impedance is a detected shift in a natural response frequency of
the sensing circuit. Thus, the device may detect the lacrimal
implant without contacting the punctum plug. The change in
impedance seen at the sensing circuit is due to generated electric
fields interacting with the lacrimal implant.
[0215] In certain embodiments, the device-detectable lacrimal
implant includes electrically conductive material disposed in the
biocompatible material of the lacrimal implant. In certain
embodiments, a cavity is provided within a body of the lacrimal
implant. An implant core is provided within the cavity that is
shaped and configured to provide sustained release of an agent. The
electrically conductive material may be provided in the implant
core. In certain embodiments, the implant core includes a sheath to
house the agent, and the electrically conductive material is
included in the sheath. In certain embodiments, the electrically
conductive material is provided in both the biocompatible material
of the implant body and in the implant core.
[0216] At block 1915, information is provided to a user or
automated process about whether the lacrimal implant is detected.
In some embodiments, one or more of a visual or audible indication
is provided to a user. In some embodiments, an indication is
transmitted to an automated process of a second device.
[0217] The device-detectable lacrimal implant can be used in a
method to treat an eye disorder. In such a method, a
device-detectable lacrimal implant is inserted into at least one
lacrimal punctum of a subject. The lacrimal implant includes a
supply of an agent in the implant core to provide sustained release
of the agent. In certain embodiments, the agent treats a glaucoma
disease, such as one or both of ocular hypertension and primary
open angle glaucoma. The lacrimal implant is detected by detecting
a change in the characteristic impedance of a sensing circuit due
to proximity of the lacrimal implant to the sensing circuit.
[0218] Detection devices may have properties to make the lacrimal
implant optically detectable by a detector device. FIG. 20 shows an
illustration of another embodiment of a lacrimal implant 2000, such
as a punctum plug. The lacrimal implant 2000 includes an implant
body 2005 of biocompatible material. The implant body 2005 includes
a cavity 2010 extending inward into the implant body 2005 from an
end of the implant body. The lacrimal implant 2000 includes an
implant core 2015 sized and configured to provide sustained release
of an agent into an eye. The implant core 2015 is carried within
the cavity 2010 of the implant body, and the implant core 2015
includes a luminescent material 2020. In some embodiments, the
agent is disposed in the biocompatible material of the implant
body, and the luminescent material is included in the implant
core.
[0219] In certain embodiments, the luminescent material 2020
includes a quantum dot. Quantum dots are semiconductor devices that
receive light of a first wavelength range (e.g., a first color) and
emit light of a different wavelength range (e.g., a second color).
Generally, larger quantum dots work with in a lower frequency
spectrum. For example, a larger quantum dot emits energy more
towards the red (lower frequency) spectrum and smaller dots emit
energy more towards the blue (higher frequency) spectrum.
[0220] In some embodiments, the implant core 2015 includes a sheath
to house the agent. FIG. 21 shows an illustration of a sheath 2100
of the implant core. The sheath 2100 may contain the luminescent
material. The FIG. shows a representation of quantum dots 2120
included at the bottom of the sheath 2100. The agent is released
through the opening at the top of the sheath 2100. Because quantum
dots may be unstable at elevated temperatures, placing the quantum
dot in the plug core may enhance quantum dot stability.
[0221] FIG. 22 is a flow diagram of another embodiment of a method
2200 of making a device detectable lacrimal implant, such as a
punctum plug. At block 2205, a punctum plug is formed of
biocompatible material. At block 2210, a cavity is formed within a
body of the punctum plug. At block 2215, a plug core is provided
within the cavity. The plug core is sized and configured to provide
sustained release of an agent into an eye. At block 2220,
luminescent material is provided in the plug core.
[0222] A lacrimal implant detector device then detects the
luminescent material 2020 of the lacrimal implant of FIG. 20. The
detector device and the lacrimal implant 2000 form a system to
provide sustained delivery of a therapeutic agent over time via a
medical device insertable into the eye and to monitor the therapy
by verifying the medical device continues to be present and
delivering the agent.
[0223] The luminescent (e.g., a quantum dot) of the lacrimal
implant 2000 is stimulated with a light source. The luminescent
absorbs a higher power/lower wavelength form of light and converts
the incident light into a lower power/higher wavelength form of
light which is emitted. The lacrimal implant 2000 is detected when
the expected higher wavelength form of light is detected.
[0224] FIG. 23 is a block diagram of another embodiment of a
lacrimal implant detector device 2300. The detector device 2300
includes a light emitting source 2335 to provide incident light to
the nearby lacrimal implant 2305, an optical filter 2325, and a
light detector device 2340. In some embodiments, the light emitting
source 2335 includes a light emitting diode (LED). The optical
filter 2325 is configured to pass light of a specified wavelength
range reflected from a luminescent material of the lacrimal implant
2305. The light detector device 2340 is configured to receive the
light passed by the optical filter 2325 and to produce a responsive
electrical signal when sufficient light is received to indicate
proximity of the lacrimal implant 2305. In some embodiments, the
light detector device 2340 includes a photodiode to convert the
energy passed by the optical filter 2325 into an electrical
signal.
[0225] The light emitting source 2335 provides incident light
having a first wavelength range and the luminescent material
reflects the incident light in a second wavelength range. In some
embodiments, the first wavelength range corresponds to a first
color of light and the second wavelength range corresponds to a
second color of light. For example, if the luminescent material
includes quantum dots, the light emitting source 2335 may provide
incident light in a blue spectrum (e.g., a blue LED) and the
luminescent material reflects the incident light in a green
spectrum which is passed by the optical filter 2325 and detected by
the light detector device 2340. The photoexcitation behavior of the
quantum dots exhibits a discrete interval of time between the
absorption and the emission of light energy. This interval of time
is on the order of 20 nanoseconds (ns).
[0226] In some embodiments, the incident and emitted light are both
in the infrared or near-infrared spectrum. The light emitting
source 2335 provides incident light of a first wavelength range in
an infrared spectrum, and the luminescent material reflects the
incident light in a different second wavelength range of the
infrared spectrum. The shift in energy between the incident and
emitted light is greater for the infrared spectrum than for the
visible spectrum of light. This greater separation in wavelength
between the incident and emitted light may make the filtering and
detection process easier. Additionally, infrared light is not seen
by an unaided eye. This makes the detection process more
comfortable for the patient because bright visible light would not
be shined into the patient's eye.
[0227] The detector device 2300 includes an indicator 2310 to
provide a user indication of implant detection upon receiving the
electrical signal from the light detector device 2340. In some
embodiments, the indicator 2310 provides a visual indication and/or
an audible indication.
[0228] FIG. 24 is a flow diagram of another embodiment of a method
2400 of detecting a lacrimal implant, such as a punctum plug. At
block 2405, the punctum plug is exposed to incident light of a
first wavelength range using a light emitting source. In some
embodiments, the incident light is from a visible light spectra LED
having a color corresponding to a wavelength within the first
range.
[0229] At block 2410, light of a second wavelength range is
detected using a detection device, wherein the received light is
reflected off of the punctum plug. Broader spectrum white light may
swamp the light detection. In some embodiments, the spectral range
of the incident light is in the green light spectrum, and the
spectral range of the reflected light is in the blue light
spectrum. An isolation chamber may be useful to block out unwanted
light from outside the relevant spectral ranges. In some
embodiments, the incident light has a first wavelength range of an
infrared spectrum, and the detected light has a second wavelength
range of the infrared spectrum.
[0230] At block 2415, an indication is provided when sufficient
reflected light is detected to indicate the proximity of the
punctum plug. In some embodiments, a visual and/or audible
indication is provided to a user. In some embodiments, an
indication signal is communicated to an automated process of a
second device. Such a device-detectable lacrimal implant may be
used to treat an eye disorder. The lacrimal implant may include a
supply of an agent in the plug core to provide sustained release of
the agent. In certain embodiments, the agent treats a glaucoma
disease.
[0231] FIG. 25 shows an illustration of another embodiment of a
lacrimal implant 2500. The implant core 2525 in the cavity 2520
includes an optical contrast material 2540 configured to optically
distinguish the lacrimal implant from a region of an eye. The
optical contrast material may include a pigment or a dye. In some
embodiments, the optical contrast material is disposed on the
surface of the implant core 2525. In some embodiments, the implant
core includes a sheath 2530 to house an agent for sustained
release, and the optical contrast material 2540 is disposed on the
sheath 2530 that houses the agent.
[0232] To detect the lacrimal implant, an image of the region of
the lacrimal punctum region of the eye is obtained, such as by
using digital camera. An image processing algorithm is then used to
locate a region of deeper contrast in the image. Because the depth
focus of the image sensor may not be automatically and accurately
set, the lacrimal implant will be determined to be in place
according to some degree of probability. Obtaining an image of a
region below the surface and potentially submerged in lacrimal
canaliculus may be difficult. One way to obtain the image is to
filter light around the spectral band of 600 to 1300 nanometers
(nm). This may filter out intervening forms of tissue between the
image sensor and the lacrimal implant.
[0233] FIG. 26 is a block diagram of another embodiment of a
lacrimal implant detector device 2600. The detector device 2600
includes an image sensor 2615 to obtain an image of at least a
portion of an eye (e.g., the lacrimal punctum region). The lacrimal
implant detection device 2600 also includes an image analyzer
circuit 2650. The image analyzer circuit 2650 is configured to
detect a location of an image portion having an image contrast that
exceeds the image contrast in other areas of the image. Thus, if
the lacrimal implant is present, the optical contrast of the
lacrimal implant will exceed the contrast elsewhere in the image by
a threshold image contrast value. The image analyzer circuit 2650
will detect the optical contrast and provide an indication of
whether an image of portion of a lacrimal implant is in the image
to a user or automated process.
[0234] In some embodiments, the image analyzer circuit 2650
includes a processor (e.g., a microprocessor) performing
instructions to implement an image processing algorithm. In some
embodiments, the image sensor 2615 is a digital image sensor
included in a camera, and the detector device 2600 may include a
memory to store the image for processing by the image analyzer
circuit 2650. In some embodiments, the image analyzer circuit 2650
is included in the digital camera. In certain embodiments, the
image analyzer circuit 2650 is included in a second device.
[0235] It may be difficult to obtain an image of the region of
interest due to intervening tissue. In some embodiments, the
detector device 2600 includes an infrared light emitter 2655, and
the image sensor 2615 includes an infrared image sensor.
[0236] FIG. 27 is a flow diagram of another embodiment of a method
2700 of making a device-detectable lacrimal implant. At block 2705,
a lacrimal implant, such as a punctum plug, is formed of
biocompatible material. At block 2710, a cavity is formed within a
body of the punctum plug. At block 2715, a plug core is provided
within the cavity. The plug core is sized and configured to provide
sustained release of an agent into an eye. At block 2720, optical
contrast material is provided in the plug core to optically
distinguish the punctum plug from a lacrimal region of an eye. In
some embodiments, providing optical contrast material in the plug
core includes providing optical contrast material on the surface of
the plug core. In some embodiments, providing a plug core includes
providing a sheath in the plug core to house the agent. The optical
contrast material in the plug core is included in the sheath.
[0237] The detectable lacrimal implant may be used in a method to
treat an eye disorder. In such a method, the detectable lacrimal
implant is inserted into at least one lacrimal punctum of the
subject. The lacrimal implant has a supply of a sustained release
agent disposed in the plug core. In certain embodiments, the agent
is used to treat a glaucoma disease such as one or both of ocular
hypertension and primary open angle glaucoma. To detect the
lacrimal implant, an image of the lacrimal punctum region of the
subject is obtained. The implant is detected when a location of an
image portion having an image contrast that exceeds the image
contrast in other areas of the image is detected.
[0238] If the implants disclosed herein include a therapeutic agent
or drug supply, it is released at therapeutic levels to provide a
desired treatment response when the implants disclosed above are
implanted in a tissue or near the eye.
[0239] Therapeutic Agent Examples:
[0240] Several examples set forth above describe a plug core that
provides sustained release of a therapeutic agent (or simply
"agent"). An agent can comprise, among other things, a drug made
from one or any combination of the following or their equivalents,
derivatives or analogs, including, anti-glaucoma medications, (e.g.
adrenergic agonists, adrenergic antagonists (beta blockers),
carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAIs, systemic and topical),
parasympathomimetics, prostaglandins and hypotensive lipids, and
combinations thereof), antimicrobial agent (e.g., antibiotic,
antiviral, antiparacytic, antifungal, etc.), a corticosteroid or
other anti-inflammatory (e.g., an NSAID or other analgesic and pain
management compounds), a decongestant (e.g., vasoconstrictor), an
agent that prevents of modifies an allergic response (e.g., an
antihistamine, cytokine inhibitor, leucotriene inhibitor, IgE
inhibitor, immunomodulator), a mast cell stabilizer, cycloplegic,
mydriatic or the like.
[0241] Example available agents include, but are not limited to,
thrombin inhibitors; antithrombogenic agents; thrombolytic agents;
fibrinolytic agents; vasospasm inhibitors; vasodilators;
antihypertensive agents; antimicrobial agents, such as antibiotics
(such as tetracycline, chlortetracycline, bacitracin, neomycin,
polymyxin, gramicidin, cephalexin, oxytetracycline,
chloramphenicol, rifampicin, ciprofloxacin, tobramycin, gentamycin,
erythromycin, penicillin, sulfonamides, sulfadiazine,
sulfacetamide, sulfamethizole, sulfisoxazole, nitrofurazone, sodium
propionate), antifungals (such as amphotericin B and miconazole),
and antivirals (such as idoxuridine trifluorothymidine, acyclovir,
gancyclovir, interferon); inhibitors of surface glycoprotein
receptors; antiplatelet agents; antimitotics; microtubule
inhibitors; anti-secretory agents; active inhibitors; remodeling
inhibitors; antisense nucleotides; anti-metabolites;
antiproliferatives (including antiangiogenesis agents); anticancer
chemotherapeutic agents; anti-inflammatories (such as
hydrocortisone, hydrocortisone acetate, dexamethasone 21-phosphate,
fluocinolone, medrysone, methylprednisolone, prednisolone
21-phosphate, prednisolone acetate, fluoromethalone, betamethasone,
triamcinolone, triamcinolone acetonide); non steroidal
anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) (such as salicylate, indomethacin,
ibuprofen, diclofenac, flurbiprofen, piroxicam indomethacin,
ibuprofen, naxopren, piroxicam and nabumetone). Examples of such
anti-inflammatory steroids contemplated for use with the present
punctum plugs, include triamcinolone acetonide (generic name) and
corticosteroids that include, for example, triamcinolone,
dexamethasone, fluocinolone, cortisone, prednisolone, flumetholone,
and derivatives thereof.); antiallergenics (such as sodium
chromoglycate, antazoline, methapyriline, chlorpheniramine,
cetrizine, pyrilamine, prophenpyridamine); anti proliferative
agents (such as 1,3-cis retinoic acid, 5-fluorouracil, taxol,
rapamycin, mitomycin C and cisplatin); decongestants (such as
phenylephrine, naphazoline, tetrahydrazoline); miotics and
anti-cholinesterase (such as pilocarpine, salicylate, carbachol,
acetylcholine chloride, physostigmine, eserine, diisopropyl
fluorophosphate, phospholine iodine, demecarium bromide);
antineoplastics (such as carmustine, cisplatin, fluorouracil3;
immunological drugs (such as vaccines and immune stimulants);
hormonal agents (such as estrogens,--estradiol, progestational,
progesterone, insulin, calcitonin, parathyroid hormone, peptide and
vasopressin hypothalamus releasing factor); immunosuppressive
agents, growth hormone antagonists, growth factors (such as
epidermal growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, platelet derived
growth factor, transforming growth factor beta, somatotrapin,
fibronectin); inhibitors of angiogenesis (such as angiostatin,
anecortave acetate, thrombospondin, anti-VEGF antibody); dopamine
agonists; radiotherapeutic agents; peptides; proteins; enzymes;
extracellular matrix; components; ACE inhibitors; free radical
scavengers; chelators; antioxidants; anti polymerases; photodynamic
therapy agents; gene therapy agents; and other therapeutic agents
such as prostaglandins, antiprostaglandins, prostaglandin
precursors, including antiglaucoma drugs including beta-blockers
such as Timolol, betaxolol, levobunolol, atenolol, and
prostaglandin analogues such as bimatoprost, travoprost,
latanoprost etc; carbonic anhydrase inhibitors such as
acetazolamide, dorzolamide, brinzolamide, methazolamide,
dichlorphenamide, diamox; and neuroprotectants such as lubezole,
nimodipine and related compounds; and parasympathomimetrics such as
pilocarpine, carbachol, physostigmine and the like.
[0242] Additional agents that can be used with the present punctum
plugs include, but are not limited to, drugs that have been
approved under Section 505 of the United States Federal Food, Drug,
and Cosmetic Act or under the Public Health Service Act, some of
which can be found at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
website http://www.accessdatalda.gov/scripts/cder/drugsatfda/index.
The present punctum plugs can also be used with drugs listed in the
Orange Book, either in paper or in electronic form, which can be
found at the FDA Orange Book website
(http://www.fda.gov/cder/ob/)), that has or records the same date
as, earlier date than, or later date than, the filing date of this
patent document. For example, these drugs can include, among
others, dorzolamide, olopatadine, travoprost, bimatoprost,
cyclosporin, brimonidine, moxifloxacin, tobramycin, brinzolamide,
aciclovir timolol maleate, ketorolac tromethamine, prednisolone
acetate, sodium hyaluronate, nepafenac, bromfenac, diclofenac,
flurbiprofen, suprofenac, binoxan, patanol,
dexamethasone/tobramycin combination, moxifloxacin, or
acyclovir.
[0243] Examples of diseases or disorders that can be treated with
above-listed agents include, but are not limited to, glaucoma, pre-
and post-surgical ocular treatments, dry eye, anti-eye allergy,
anti-infective, post-surgical inflammation or pain,
respiration-related disorders, such as allergies, or inner ear
disorders, such as dizziness or migraines. In some examples, the
therapeutic agent can include a lubricant or a surfactant, for
example a lubricant to treat dry eye. In other examples, the
therapeutic agent can include an absorbent capable of absorbing
tear from an eye.
[0244] Drug Supply Examples:
[0245] The drug supply can comprise one or more agents, and in some
examples, one or more matrix materials to provide sustained release
of the agents. The one or more agents can migrate from an exposed
surface of the drug supply to the target tissue (e.g., ciliary
muscles of an eye) based, at least in part, on a solubility of the
agents in the matrix. The rate of migration of the agents from the
exposed surface can also be related to the concentration of agents
dissolved in the matrix. In some examples, the concentration of
agents dissolved in the drug supply can be controlled to provide
the desired release rate of the agents. In addition or in
combination, the rate of migration of agents from the exposed
surface can be related to one or more properties of the matrix in
which the agents dissolve, such as the properties of a silicone
matrix formulation. In some examples, the agents included in the
drug supply can include liquid, solid, solid gel, solid
crystalline, solid amorphous, solid particulate, or dissolved
forms. In one such example, liquid Latanoprost droplets or solid
Bimatoprost particles are dispersed in a silicone matrix.
[0246] The drug supply can comprise one or more biocompatible
materials capable of providing a sustained release of the one or
more agents. Although the drug supply is primarily discussed above
with respect to an example comprising a matrix including a
substantially non-biodegradable silicone matrix with dissolvable
inclusions of the agents located therein, the drug supply can
include other structures that provide sustained release of the
agents, for example a biodegradable matrix, a porous drug supply, a
liquid drug supply or a solid drug supply. A matrix that includes
the agents can be formed from either biodegradable or
non-biodegradable polymers. In some examples, a non-biodegradable
drug supply can include silicone, acrylates, polyethylenes,
polyurethane, polyurethane, hydrogel, polyester (e.g., DACRON.RTM.
from E. I. Du Pont de Nemours and Company, Wilmington, Del.),
polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), expanded PTFE
(ePTFE), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), nylon, extruded collagen,
polymer foam, silicone rubber, polyethylene terephthalate, ultra
high molecular weight polyethylene, polycarbonate urethane,
polyurethane, polyimides, stainless steel, nickel-titanium alloy
(e.g., Nitinol), titanium, stainless steel, cobalt-chrome alloy
(e.g., ELGILOY.RTM. from Elgin Specialty Metals, Elgin, Ill.;
CONICHROME.RTM. from Carpenter Metals Corp., Wyomissing, Pa.). In
some examples, a biodegradable drug supply can comprise one or more
biodegradable polymers, such as protein, hydrogel, polyglycolic
acid (PGA), polylactic acid (PLA), poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA),
poly(L-glycolic acid) (PLGA), polyglycolide, poly-L-lactide,
poly-D-lactide, poly(amino acids), polydioxanone, polycaprolactone,
polygluconate, polylactic acid-polyethylene oxide copolymers,
modified cellulose, collagen, polyorthoesters, polyhydroxybutyrate,
polyanhydride, polyphosphoester, poly(alpha-hydroxy acid) and
combinations thereof. In some examples, the drug supply can
comprise a hydrogel polymer.
[0247] The therapeutic agent or the drug supply is preferably
released at a uniform rate, for example a rate that corresponds to
zero order kinetics, although the therapeutic agent can be released
at rates that correspond to other orders of reaction kinetics, for
example first order. In many embodiments, the kinetic order of the
reaction will vary from zero order to first order as the
therapeutic agent is released. Thus, the therapeutic agent is
released with a profile that corresponds to a range of kinetic
orders that varies from about zero to about one. Ideally, the
implant is removed before the rate at which the therapeutic agent
is released changes significantly so as to provide uniform delivery
of the therapeutic agent. As a uniform rate of delivery is desired,
it may be desirable to remove and/or replace the implant before the
reaction kinetics transition entirely to first order. In other
embodiments, first or higher order release kinetics may be
desirable during some or all of the treatment, so long as the
therapeutic agent release profile remains within a safe and
effective range. In some embodiments the cores may release the
therapeutic agent at an effective rate for the period of 1 week to
5 years, more particularly in the range of 3-24 months. As pointed
out above, in some embodiments it may be desirable for the
detection agent and therapeutic agent to have similar release
rates, for example the detection agent will indicate the continued
release of the therapeutic agent. In other embodiments, it may be
desirable for the detection agent and therapeutic agent to have
different release rates, for example, the detection agent is
released to let the patient know when the therapeutic agent is done
releasing and to remove or change the implant.
[0248] The present invention is meant to embody all implants or
devices which are implanted into the eye-lid canalicular puncta of
the nasolacrimal system. The implants or devices include a
detection device to let the patient know if the implant or device
is in place, and in some embodiments, if the implant or device is
still functioning properly, such as still delivering the
therapeutic agent or drug.
[0249] Depending on the desired therapy, the some of the implants
could be oriented in the punctal canal to deliver the drug either
to the tear lake and thus the eye, or to the nasolacrimal system
and thus the body's systemic circulation. The drawings illustrate
only a few of the embodiments of the implant of the invention.
[0250] Referring now to FIG. 28, an implant data and tracking
system 2800 generally facilitates correlation of implant data,
tracking of implants, and the like. System typically includes a
plurality of implants 2810 which may include one or more of the
implant structures described herein. These implants will typically
be suitable for ophthalmic use, but other system embodiments may
find use for other medical indications and treatments with other
drug delivery implants and the like.
[0251] Each implant associated with system 2800 may transmit a
signal that is identifiable by a reader 2820. For example, the
signal may be an RFID signal that allows identification of the
implant as being a member a particular class or type of implants,
as being a member of a particular population within a class or type
of implants, and/or as being a particular unique implant.
Alternative systems may employ light-based signals (including those
signals generated using florescent signal tags released from the
implant), magnetic signals, or the like. The reader will often
comprise an off-the-shelf reader (such as a commercially available
RFID reader, a commercially available spectral code reader, or the
like), but may alternatively include a proprietary implant reader.
The reader will transmit signals (typically electronically) to a
processor 2830, allowing the processor to determine attributes of
particular implant 2810 then being scanned or read.
[0252] Processor 2830 may include some or all of the components of
a commercially available computer system. Processor 2830 will, for
example, typically includes at least one processor circuit 2830A,
which may communicate with a number of peripheral devices via a bus
subsystem. These peripheral devices may include a memory system
2830B. The memory will typically include a tangible storage media
embodying machine readable instructions for performing methods
(including those described herein) and/or data. Memory 2830B may
comprise a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a
persistent (non-volatile) storage such as a hard disk drive, a
floppy disk drive along with associated removable media, a Compact
Digital Read Only Memory (CD-ROM) drive, an optical drive, DVD,
CD-R, CD-RW, solid-state removable memory, and/or other removable
media cartridges or disks including flash RAM. In some embodiments,
processor 2830 will comprise a proprietary structure.
[0253] Some exemplary contents of memory 2830B or 2840 are
schematically illustrated in FIG. 28A. In general, the memory may
include a listing of individual implants, implant classes/types,
and/or populations of implants. The listing of implants may, for
each listing, include ID signal information to allow the processor
to identify the implant, implant class, and/or implant population
from the signals read by reader 2820. Optionally, the memory may
also include (or allow access to) information regarding drugs or
agents of the implants, dates of manufacture, shelf life, planned
drug delivery spans for the implants, sizes of the implants, and/or
the like. Particularly where the processor is used in or coupled to
an implant location such as a doctor's office, the memory may also
include information regarding the patient ID, the date of
implantation, information regarding the presence of the implant at
a follow-up visit, prior and/or subsequent patient health data
(including indications of the efficacy of the implant), and/or the
like. With access to this information, system 2800 may be used to
help manage and/or track use of a large inventory of implants, many
of which are implanted in a diverse patient population.
[0254] Simple systems might employ a single processor chip or
integrated circuit running a monolithic computer program and
packaged with a reader and an output in a small, hand-held unit.
Alternatively, a wide variety of centralized or distributed data
processing hardware and software architectures may be implemented.
For example, a central processor 1040 may be located at (or be
under the control of) an implant manufacturer or distributor, or a
regulatory agency (such as the Food and Drug Administration in the
United States). The central processor may be linked to each of a
number of local clinical processors via a network such as the
internet 2850 or the like. This distributed processor system may
facilitate management of use and inventories of implants within a
doctor's office, and also allow tracking of efficacy, adverse
events, and the like throughout a range of different clinical
settings. Hence, the functionality described herein may be
implemented in a variety of software and/or hardware nodules
distributed in different data processing structures and locations.
For example, it will often be advantageous to provide readers (and
often associated processors) at a plurality of differing doctor's
offices, with each of the readers being able to determine
attributes (such as the drug delivered by the implant, when the
implant was implanted, and when the drug delivery period ends) of
the implant. This may allow a patient with an implant to receive
advice or treatment (such as replacement of the implant) at any
clinical setting having the appropriate equipment, even when the
patient does not have perfect information regarding the implant.
The implant data system may also be incorporated into a range of
alternative electronic record systems, optionally allowing
automated messages being sent to a patient file or physician when
the implant data is read and/or when the implant is implanted or
removed using the Siemens SMS Medical Solutions system or the
like.
Example 1 Elution of Fluorescein and the Effect of Surfactant on
Fluorescein Elution
[0255] FIG. 29 shows the elution of fluorescein and the effect of
surfactant on fluorescein elution, according to embodiments of the
present invention. The elution data for fluorescein show the
flexibility of the above drug core and manufacturing processes for
the sustained release of many therapeutic agents, including both
water soluble and water insoluble therapeutic agents, and
relatively low molecular weight and high molecular weight
therapeutic agents. In some embodiments, a detection agent may
comprise fluorescein eluted with a therapeutic agent, as described
above. Fluorescein has a molecular mass of 332.32 g/mol, is soluble
in water, and can serve as a model for the release water soluble
therapeutic agents released from the eye. Work in relation with
embodiments of the present invention indicates that molecular
weight and solubility in water can each affect the release rate of
the drug from the solid drug core matrix. For example, lower
molecular weight may increase diffusion through the solid matrix
material, i.e., through silicone, such that low molecular weight
compounds may be released more quickly. Also, solubility in water
can also effect the release rate of the drug, and in some instances
increased water solubility of the drug may increase the rate of
release from the solid drug core matrix, for example via transport
from the solid matrix material to the bodily liquid, such as tear
liquid. In accordance with these embodiments, therapeutic agents
with higher molecular weight than fluorescein and with lower water
solubility than fluorescein, for example cyclosporin and
prostaglandins as shown above, may be released from the solid core
at lower rates. Surfactants may also affect the rate of release of
the therapeutic agent from the drug core into the surrounding
bodily tissue and/or fluid, for example tear film fluid.
[0256] Each drug core tested comprised MED 4011 silicone. In one
embodiments, a drug core formulation 2910 comprised 9% surfactant
and 0.09% fluorescein. An exponential fit 2912 is shown for the
elution rate of drug core formulation 2910. In another embodiment,
a drug core formulation 2920 comprised 16.5% surfactant and 0.17%
fluorescein. An exponential fit 2922 is shown for the elution rate
of drug core formulation 2920. In another embodiment, a drug core
formulation 2930 comprised 22.85% surfactant and 0.23% fluorescein.
An exponential fit 2932 is shown for the elution rate of drug core
formulation 2930. In an embodiment without surfactant, a drug core
formulation 2940 comprised 0% surfactant and 0.3% fluorescein. An
exponential fit 2942 is shown for the elution rate of drug core
formulation 2940.
[0257] The drug cores were manufactured with key formulations
comprising: Silicone Surfactant "190 Fluid" (Dow Corning);
Surfactant Mix: "190 Fluid"+Fluorescein; Silicone (Nusil): MED 4011
Part A, MED 4011 Part B; Centrifuge Tubes; 3 mL Syringe; 20 ga.
Needle; 0.031 inch inner diameter Teflon Tube; and Buffer.
[0258] Key parameters included: Prepare a mixture of 2.5 g of
silicone surfactant and 0.025 g of fluorescein; Prepare silicone
compositions of Nusil MED 4011 containing 3.5 g Part A and 0.37 g
Part B (10:1 ratio); Prepare four (4) centrifuge tubes each with
0.5 g of silicone and varying surfactant mixture weights as
follows: A. 0.05 g surfactant mix: 9% surfactant, 0.09%
fluorescein; B. 0.1 g surfactant mix: 16.5% surfactant, 0.17%
fluorescein; C. 0.15 surfactant mix: 22.85% surfactant, 0.23%
fluorescein; D. 0.0015 g fluorescein: 0% surfactant, 0.3%
fluorescein; Inject each of the four formulations into respective
teflon tubes using the syringe and needle; Cure the injected tube
at 140.degree. C. for 45 minutes in the oven; Cut each tube into 3
pieces in length to 4 mm; and Immerse each cut piece into a
centrifuge tube containing 0.3 mL of buffer
[0259] Data collection comprised: Collect samples at time points
24, 48, 72, 192, and 312 hours; Submit each sample for UV
spectrometry analysis; Convert each elution rate from .mu.g/mL/hr
to .mu.g/cm.sup.2/hr by using the dimensions of the teflon tube (4
mm length, 0.031 inch inner diameter); Plot data for elution rate
vs. time to compare the rates of each surfactant mix
formulation
[0260] Analysis comprised fitting trendlines for each elution rate
to an exponential curve, as shown in Table 1.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Trendlines for each elution rate fit to
exponential curves. Sample % % Trendline # Surfactant Fluorescein
R.sup.2 Equation A 9.0 0.09 0.9497 636.66x.sup.-1.1161 B 16.5 0.17
0.8785 4289.6x.sup.-1.3706 C 22.85 0.23 0.9554 1762.0x.sup.-1.0711
D 0 0.30 0.9478 1142.1x.sup.-1.2305
[0261] The trendline equations of table 1 indicate the following:
The data fit experimental curves well with R.sup.2 values of 0.8785
to 0.9554. The trendline equations show exponent coefficients of
-1.0711 to -1.3706. Elution rates increased with increasing
surfactant levels. Despite relatively similar amounts of
fluorescein, there is a dramatic increase in elution rates between
Samples C and D--this demonstrates that the addition of surfactant
to the silicone matrix dramatically affects the elution rate of the
water-soluble compound. The elution rate of Sample A is comparable
to that of Sample D, even though Sample A contains only one-third
the amount of fluorescein. This also demonstrates that the rate of
elution can be affected by the addition of surfactant to the
silicone matrix.
[0262] Although the trendline equation exponent coefficients of
-1.0711 to -1.3706 are consistent with first order release, the
data include an initial 48 hour period in which bolus release of
fluorescein from the core is observed. Such an initial washout
period of 2 to 3 days with high levels of the therapeutic agent
delivered followed by a period of sustained release at therapeutic
levels can be helpful in some embodiments, for example where
elevated levels for a short period of time are tolerated and can
lead to an accelerated effect on the eye. Work in relation with
embodiments of the present invention suggests that after 48 hours
the elution data can be closer to zero order, for example within a
range from about zero order to about first order.
[0263] FIG. 30 shows a cross sectional view of a drug delivery
implant 3000 having a therapeutic agent and a detection device
3050, according to embodiments of the present invention. Implant
3000 includes a core 3010 having a proximal end 3012 and a distal
end 3014 having a detection agent therein. In the embodiment shown,
the core 3010 also includes the therapeutic agent. The core 3010
comprises a matrix 3030 that contains inclusions 3040 of
therapeutic agent. Inclusions 3040 may comprise a concentrated form
of the therapeutic agents, for example a liquid or solid form of
the therapeutic agents, and the therapeutic agents may over time
dissolve into matrix 3030 of core 3010. Matrix 3030 can comprise a
silicone matrix or the like, and the mixture of the detection agent
and therapeutic agent within matrix 3030 can be non-homogeneous.
The core 3010, matrix 3030, inclusions 3040 and therapeutic agents
may include any core, matrix, inclusions and therapeutic agents
described in the present application. In many embodiments, the
non-homogenous mixture comprises a silicone matrix portion that is
saturated with the detection agent and therapeutic agent and an
inclusions portion comprising inclusions of the detection agent and
therapeutic agent, such that the non-homogenous mixture comprises a
multiphase non-homogenous mixture. In some embodiments, matrix 3030
encapsulates inclusions 3040 and inclusions 3040 may comprise
microparticles having dimensions from about 1 .mu.m to about 100
.mu.m. The encapsulated inclusions dissolve into the surrounding
solid matrix, for example silicone, that encapsulates the micro
particles such that matrix 3030 is substantially saturated with the
detection agent and therapeutic agent, while the detection agent
and therapeutic agent are released from the core. The therapeutic
agent is released at therapeutic levels to provide a desired
treatment response when the implant 3000 is implanted in the body.
The drug core may release the therapeutic agent at an effective
rate for the period of 1 week to 5 years, more particularly in the
range of 3-24 months. In some embodiments, the therapeutic level is
less than a dose administered quantity or less or 5-10% of the dose
administered quantity, typically being less than 10% and often
being 5% or less than the dose administered quantity each day for
an extended period of days. The dose administered quantity may be
the oral dose or may be an injectable dose.
[0264] At the distal end 3014 of the core 3010 is the detection
device 3050. The detection device 3050 may be any device that aids
in the detection and/or identification of the implant 3000 when
positioned within the body. In one embodiment, the detection device
3080 may include a detection signal allowing detection of the
implant and/or identification of an attribute of the implant from
among a plurality of alternative attributes of implants. In one
example, the transmitting signal comprises a radio signal of a RFID
chip capable of detection with an RFID detector, the signal
comprising a radio signal identification signal. In other examples,
the signal includes a magnetic signal from a material capable of
detection with a magnetic detector, or an ultrasonically reflective
material capable of detection with an ultrasonic detector.
[0265] Core 3010 and detector 3050 fits within a channel of a
sheath body 3020. Sheath body 3020 is substantially impermeable to
the therapeutic agent, so that the therapeutic agent is released
from an exposed surface on the proximal end 3012 of core 3010 that
is not covered with sheath body 3020. The detector 3050 may also be
molded into the sheath body 3020.
[0266] The therapeutic agent used in the implant 3000 may be used
for different treatment and conditions, and may include the
therapeutic agents disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No.
11/695,537, titled "Drug Delivery Methods, Structures, and
Compositions for Nasolacrimal Systems; U.S. application Ser. No.
11/695,545, titled "Nasolacrimal Drainage System Implants for Drug
Therapy"; U.S. App. No. 60/871,867, titled "Drug Delivery Implants
for Inhibition of Optical Defects"; U.S. App. No. 60/970,709,
titled "Nasolacrimal Drainage System with Implants for Drug
Delivery", U.S. App. No. 60/970,820, titled "Multiple Drug Delivery
Systems and Combinations of Drugs with Punctal Implants", the full
disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
[0267] FIG. 31 shows drug delivery therapeutic implants 3000 in a
body 3100 to treat a body condition. The therapeutic implants 3000
are sustained release implants with a drug core containing a
therapeutic agent, and a detector as discussed above. The
therapeutic implant may be implanted by known means.
[0268] In use, the therapeutic implant 3000 is implanted in the
body 3100, where a body fluid may contact the exposed surface of
the drug core, releasing the therapeutic agent. Depending on the
implant location, any body fluid proximate the therapeutic implant,
such as blood, may contact the exposed surface, releasing the
therapeutic agent from the implant. The therapeutic implant
location may include body locations for local drug delivery to
joints, such as proximate the shoulder, knee, elbow, finger, or a
trauma location, or a tumor location, other locations, such as the
abdomen, for general drug delivery. The therapeutic implant 3000
may include on or more retention elements known in the art to
retain the therapeutic implant 3000 near a body location, such as
the body locations listed above.
[0269] The detection device 3050 within the therapeutic implant
3000 can be detected and/or identified many different ways. For
example, in some embodiments, the detection device 3050 may
communicate 3105 with a detection system 3110 that can detect
and/or identify the implant 3000. Detection system 3110 may include
any or all of the features discussed with detection system 1065 and
system 2800 above. For example, the detection system 3110 may
include a RFID detection system to detect a RFID chip, a magnetic
detector system to detect a magnetic material, an ultrasonic
detector system to detect ultrasonically reflective material, or
any other detection system described herein.
[0270] In one embodiment, the therapeutic implant 3000 is used in
oncology, where a local therapeutic implant drug delivery could
allow an extra benefit of treating a tumor site post surgically,
and minimizing the collateral damage to the rest of the body. An
example would be lumpectomy for breast tumor or surgical treatment
of prostate cancer, where the therapeutic implant would be
implanted near the cancer site. In fact any solid tumor would be a
target, with the therapeutic implant being implanted near the
tumor.
[0271] In joints, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
may be used for the treatment of such things as osteoarthritis and
rheumatoid arthritis. Delivery of NSAIDs locally would reduce the
risk associated with systemic cox II inhibitors, such as
gastrointestinal problems (problems in the stomach or intestine)
the may include stomach ulcers or bleeding, and possibly life
threatening perforations (rips or holes) in the wall of the stomach
or intestine. In this embodiment, the therapeutic implant is
positioned near the joint to deliver NSAIDs locally.
[0272] In another embodiment, a therapeutic implant may be used for
localized delivery of multiple drugs to a trauma site, such as
delivering an analgesic or an anti-infectives. While specific
embodiments of the invention has been shown and described in detail
to illustrate the application of the principles of the invention,
it will be understood that the invention may be embodied otherwise
without departing from such principles. For example, simple
mechanical indicators could be used to provide information
regarding the state of the implant (such as that the implant has
been implanted for an intended treatment time or the like). For
example, time-dependent erosion of a film may detectable alter the
implant by changing a color or reflectiveness of a surface, allow
release of a colored or fluorescing material, allow swelling of a
material, or the like. A simple chemical or mechanical clock of the
implant may begin running and/or stop running when the implant is
implanted, allowing determination of the implant and/or desired
removal date.
[0273] The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. .sctn.
1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the
technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that
it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of
the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various
features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This
should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed
feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter
may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed
embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into
the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a
separate embodiment. The scope of the invention should be
determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the
full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
[0274] All publications, patents, and patent documents referred to
in this document are incorporated by reference herein in their
entirety, as though individually incorporated by reference. In the
event of inconsistent usages between this document and those
documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in the
incorporated reference(s) should be considered supplementary to
that of this document; for irreconcilable inconsistencies, the
usage in this document controls.
[0275] In this document, the terms "a" or "an" are used, as is
common in patent documents, to include one or more than one,
independent of any other instances or usages of "at least one" or
"one or more." In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to
a nonexclusive or, such that "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B
but not A," and "A and B," unless otherwise indicated. In the
appended claims, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as
the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising"
and "wherein." Also, in the following claims, the terms "including"
and "comprising" are open-ended, that is, a system, device,
article, or process that includes elements in addition to those
listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within
the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the
terms "first," "second," and "third," etc. are used merely as
labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on
their objects.
[0276] Some of the method examples described herein can be machine
or computer-implemented at least in part. Some examples can include
a computer-readable medium or machine-readable medium encoded with
instructions operable to configure an electronic device to perform
methods as described in the above examples. An implementation of
such methods can include code, such as microcode, assembly language
code, a higher-level language code, or the like. Such code can
include computer readable instructions for performing various
methods. The code may form portions of computer program products.
Further, the code may be tangibly stored on one or more volatile or
non-volatile computer-readable media during execution or at other
times. These computer-readable media may include, but are not
limited to, hard disks, removable magnetic disks, removable optical
disks (e.g., compact disks and digital video disks), magnetic
cassettes, memory cards or sticks, random access memories (RAM's),
read only memories (ROM's), and the like.
* * * * *
References