Corneal implant injector system
Inventors
Daphna, Ofer • Dubson, Dmitry • Ferera, Nahum • Cohen, Oriah Mioduser • Eliachar, Elie
Assignees
Publication Number
US-11678973-B2
Publication Date
2023-06-20
Expiration Date
2040-05-27
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Abstract
A corneal implant injector system includes an injector including a plunger slidable in a plunger housing, and a distal cartridge grabbing member engageable with an implant-holding cartridge.
Core Innovation
The invention pertains to an improved injector tool specifically designed for injecting a corneal implant, such as a hydrophobic pseudo-endothelial implant used for treating an edematous cornea. The system includes an injector with a slidable plunger in a plunger housing and a distal cartridge grabbing member engageable with an implant-holding cartridge. The cartridge holds the corneal implant in a folded or curled position within a pivotally coupled cartridge housing, facilitating insertion through a small corneal incision.
The injector is designed to precisely manipulate the cartridge and implant, including features such as a sharp edge or elongated cannula at the distal end of the plunger housing, and a pivotable clasp or other grabbing members controlled by an actuator to engage the cartridge. The cartridge itself can be sealed in a vial with a puncturable septum containing a viscoelastic fluid to maintain implant viability prior to use.
The problem addressed by this invention arises from the inadequacy of prior art intraocular lens (IOL) injectors for introducing such implants through small corneal incisions, which are typically between 1-3 mm. The invention provides a tailored system that enables safe, controlled introduction of the implant into the corneal space and supports minimally invasive surgical procedures without requiring sutures or mechanical fasteners.
Claims Coverage
The patent contains one independent claim which outlines a corneal implant injector system with integrated components, detailing structural and functional aspects of the injector, cartridge, and implant pusher member.
Injector with slidable plunger and distal cartridge grabbing member
The system comprises an injector including a plunger slidable in a plunger housing, and a distal cartridge grabbing member that engages with an implant-holding cartridge.
Cartridge with pivotally coupled housing halves for implant folding
The cartridge comprises first and second housing halves pivotally coupled about a hinge, with an implant receiving portion such that closing the halves curls or folds the corneal implant within the implant receiving portion.
Implant pusher member with annular rim and slidable pusher to fold implant
An implant pusher member is coupled to the cartridge, having an implant mounting portion with an annular rim supporting the implant in an unfolded position. A centrally extending slit allows a slidable pusher to push the implant through this slit into the implant receiving portion, causing the implant to fold or curl when passing through.
The inventive features collectively define a corneal implant injector system that integrates a specialized injector, a uniquely structured cartridge to fold and hold the implant securely, and an implant pusher that enables controlled folding and delivery of the implant through minimally invasive incisions.
Stated Advantages
Enables introduction of corneal implants through very small corneal incisions (about 1-3 mm) efficiently.
Provides a system adapted specifically for hydrophobic pseudo-endothelial implants that prior IOL injectors do not support well.
Facilitates accurate and controlled implant delivery with a grabbing member and plunger mechanism.
Allows the implant to be preloaded, folded securely in a cartridge, and maintained in a sealed vial with viscoelastic fluid for preservation.
Documented Applications
Treatment of over-hydrated, edematous cornea by introducing a hydrophobic pseudo-endothelial implant to the posterior portion of the cornea.
Introduction of corneal implants in procedures such as posterior lamellar keratoplasty (PLK) and Descemet's stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK).
Use in corneal surgeries involving removal of posterior stromal tissue, Descemet's membrane, and endothelial cells, or implantation without posterior surface stripping.
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