Adjustable intraocular implant

Abstract

Methods and devices for adjusting or configuring the flow rate of an intraocular shunt are provided whereby hypotony can be avoided by increasing the flow rate through the device. In some embodiments, the device is a shunt that can have a first flow that can be modified to a second flow by modifying the shunt, such as by cutting the shunt. Additionally, one or more dissolvable portions can be present to provide an initial flow restriction and subsequent increase in flow over time.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 157,240, filed May 17, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 771,000, filed on Feb. 19, 2013, each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.BACKGROUND[0002]Glaucoma is a disease of the eye that affects millions of people. Glaucoma is associated with an increase in intraocular pressure resulting either from a failure of a drainage system of an eye to adequately remove aqueous humor from an anterior chamber of the eye or overproduction of aqueous humor by a ciliary body in the eye. Build-up of aqueous humor and resulting intraocular pressure may result in irreversible damage to the optic nerve and the retina, which may lead to irreversible retinal damage and blindness.[0003]Glaucoma may be treated in a number of different ways. One manner of treatment involves delivery of drugs such as beta-blockers ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent provides intraocular implants and methods for adjusting the flow rate of a shunt in the eye to prevent hypotony and provide adequate pressure relief. The implants can be adjusted by changing their length or by cutting a section to increase flow. The clinician can determine the position of the shunt and make the adjustments based on the dimensions of the shunt. The method allows for precise control over the flow rate and can be useful in treating glaucoma and other diseases of the eye.

Problems solved by technology

However, existing implantable shunts may not effectively regulate fluid flow from the anterior chamber.

If fluid flows from the anterior chamber at a rate greater than it can be produced in the anterior chamber, the surgery can result in an undesirably low intraocular pressure in the anterior chamber of the eye.

Risks associated with low intraocular pressure and hypotony include blurred vision, collapse of the anterior chamber, and potentially significant damage to the eye.

Such risks could require additional surgical intervention to repair.

However, if fluid flow from the eye is not great enough, pressure in the anterior chamber will not be relieved, and damage to the optic nerve and the retina may still occur.

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