Intraocular lens with extensible haptics

Abstract

The present invention relates to an intraocular lens (1) having an optical body (2) and at least one loop element (5, 6, 7) connected to the optical body (2), wherein the at least one loop element (5, 6, 7) has a first loop member (8) and at least one second loop member (9) formed adjacent thereto, the second loop member being elastically movable relative to the first loop member (8), and having a principal optical axis (A) passing through the front side (3) and rear side (4) of the optical body (2), wherein the loop element (5, 6, 7) having a maximum value of a first height (H1) measured in the direction of the principal optical axis (A), wherein the second loop member (9) is displaceable relative to the first loop member (8) from a non-extended position to an extended position. The extended position is such that the loop element (5, 6, 7) measured in the direction of the main optical axis reaches a maximum value of a second height (H2) greater than the first height (H1), and in the extended position, the second loop component (9) is able to lock in place relative to the first loop component (8), wherein the first loop component (8) has at least one first extension element (14, 17), and the second loop component (9) has at least one second extension element (15, 16), wherein the first extension element (14, 17) and the second extension element (15, 16) are arranged in an overlapping manner and are directly adjacent to each other in at least some areas when viewed in the circumferential direction around the main optical axis (A).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an intraocular lens having an optical body and at least one loop element coupled to the optical body. The intraocular lens has a principal optical axis passing through the front and rear sides of the optical body. The at least one loop element has a first loop member and at least one second element formed adjacent thereto. The second loop member is elastically movable relative to the first loop member. Background Technology

[0002] Intraocular lenses (IOLs) are known to have various configurations. Typically, an IOL has at least two separate loop elements that are formed opposite to each other and connected to the optical body in a circumferential direction around the principal optical axis. It is also possible to form more than two such separate loop elements, such as three loop elements.

[0003] Artificial lenses can be implanted in different defined locations within the eye to replace the eye's natural lens. Therefore, in this context, it is conceivable to implant a specific artificial lens into the anterior chamber of the eye. For example, such an anterior chamber lens could be fixed at the anterior iridocorneal angle.

[0004] There are also known intraocular lenses called iris clip-on lenses. These lenses are fixed to the pupil. Specifically, the lens is clipped onto the pupillary opening. For example, such a lens is known from DE 10 2007 057 122 A1. This type of lens, having this specific implantation site in the eye, has two opposing loop elements. Each of these loop elements has two C-shaped loop arms. Viewed in a plane perpendicular to the principal optical axis of the lens, the mutually facing ends of these loop arms are arranged to face each other but are arranged to be non-contacting and non-overlapping. With the loop arms formed in this way, the circumferential gap between the ends of the loop arms can be used to clip onto the iris. However, this lens is not intended for and is not suitable for implantation in the eye capsule.

[0005] In this regard, it is further known that there are specific intraocular lenses, which can be called posterior chamber lenses, and which can be implanted into the eye capsule.

[0006] DE 103 10 961 B4 discloses an intraocular lens for a posterior chamber type. In this posterior chamber type lens, two separate loop elements are formed to radially abut the optical body in opposite regions of the optical body. Each of the two corresponding loop elements is formed to have two loop parts. The two loop parts of the loop elements are movable relative to each other. For this purpose, at the defined connection site between the loop elements connected to each other in a one-piece form, the defined kink point is formed, for example, in the form of an integral hinge. In this way, the radially outer loop part of this loop element can be kinked or pivoted relative to the first loop part directly abutting the optical body. This pivoting movement occurs only in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis. This aims to reduce the radial width of the entire intraocular lens so as to avoid stimulation inside the capsule caused by these loop elements.

[0007] In addition, US 3,994,027 A describes an artificial lens with two loop elements.

[0008] After intraocular lens implantation, vision improves, but in patients over 60 years of age, approximately 45% experience a significant recurrence of vision loss within 5 years post-surgery. This is due to residual lens epithelial cells on the inner surface of the posterior capsule after cataract surgery. Increased opacity in the posterior capsule wall, caused by lens epithelial cell proliferation, migration, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), collagen changes, and lens fiber regeneration, is known as "posterior capsular opacification" or "PCO." Patients find this opacification very troublesome. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The purpose of this invention is to provide an intraocular lens that can reduce the likelihood or severity of posterior cataracts.

[0010] According to the features of the independent claim, this objective is achieved by an artificial intraocular lens.

[0011] One aspect of the invention relates to an intraocular lens having an optical body and at least one loop element coupled to the optical body. The intraocular lens has a principal optical axis passing through the front and rear sides of the optical body. The loop element has a first loop member and at least one second loop member formed adjacent thereto, the second loop member being elastically movable relative to the first loop member. The loop element has a first maximum height in the direction of the principal optical axis. This means that this first height is not permitted to cover the entire range of the loop element in the radial direction. Rather, it is sufficient when such height exists at least at one point along the range in the radial direction. The second loop member is movable relative to the first loop member from a non-extended position to an extended position such that the loop element, measured in the direction of the principal optical axis, has a second maximum height greater than the first height. Therefore, at each point of the loop element, the first height is less than the second height. Thus, the second height may only exist in the extended positions of the two loop members. Moreover, in the extended position, the second loop member can be locked in place relative to the first loop member.

[0012] According to the invention, the first loop element has at least one first extension element, and the second loop element has at least one second extension element. These two extension elements are arranged directly adjacent to each other in the non-extended position of the loop element. Therefore, the extension elements can also be positioned to contact each other in the non-extended position.

[0013] According to the invention, the first and second extension elements, at least in the extended position, are arranged to overlap each other when viewed in the circumferential direction around the principal optical axis. In this extended position, the first and second extension elements are arranged directly adjacent to each other in at least some areas.

[0014] This configuration of the intraocular lens allows for at least two defined positions to be achieved via the first and second loop components. More specifically, the extended position aims to achieve a smaller contact area between the capsular bag wall, particularly the posterior capsular bag wall, and the posterior side of the optic body of the intraocular lens implanted within the capsular bag. Therefore, aqueous humor can enter between this posterior side of the optic body and the posterior capsular bag wall, for example, allowing some troublesome cells to be flushed away rather than left there. This is advantageous because, compared to conventional capsular bag implanted intraocular lenses, it can at least reduce posterior capsular bag wall opacification and thus the formation of secondary cataracts.

[0015] The discrete extension position is achieved particularly advantageously by having the first and second extension elements, when viewed in the circumferential direction around the principal optical axis, overlap and are at least directly adjacent to each other in some areas. In the discrete extension position, the two extension elements, and therefore the loop components, are adjusted relative to each other in the direction of the principal optical axis, and the loop components extend in this way. More specifically, this also achieves corresponding mechanical stability regarding the maintenance of the extension position.

[0016] The document states that the anterior capsule wall is oriented toward the cornea, while the posterior capsule wall is oriented toward the retina.

[0017] In the extended position, the first loop component and the second loop component form an extended connection. Because the first loop component and the second loop component can lock into place in the extended position, this extended position can be maintained for an extended period. This prevents the two loop components from automatically returning from the extended position to the non-extended position. More specifically, this extended connection is suitably designed for this purpose.

[0018] An extension connection should be understood as a connection in which at least one deformable component is deformed and connected and held in its final position where its stress is relatively low. At least in one sub-region, when this component is in the extension position, it is under permanent deformation.

[0019] In particular, artificial lenses are in one-piece form.

[0020] In an advantageous implementation, the second height ensures that the maximum height of the optical body, measured in the vertical direction or along the principal optical axis, is less than this second height. Therefore, this second height is greater than the maximum thickness of the optical body measured along the principal optical axis. It is possible that the maximum thickness or height of the optical body is located at the geometric center of the optical body. In this case, the maximum thickness of the optical body can be referred to as the center thickness.

[0021] This example also ensures that there is no contact between the optic body of the intraocular lens and the capsular bag wall under tension. More specifically, this thus avoids direct contact between the posterior side of the optic body and the posterior capsular bag wall. When the extension position has the effect that the entire posterior capsular bag wall is at a distance from the posterior side of the optic body after intraocular lens implantation, the optic body can be even better flushed with aqueous humor, further reducing the likelihood of posterior capsular cataract formation.

[0022] In an advantageous implementation, at least two loop components of at least one loop element are arranged in a non-extended position of the loop components and thus in a default position of the loop components in a common plane oriented perpendicular to the principal optical axis. More specifically, these loop components in this non-extended position are not opposite each other in one direction of the principal optical axis or in the other direction of the principal optical axis.

[0023] In the extended position, at least one of the two loop components is positioned such that it protrudes from this common plane. Preferably, in the extended position, both the first and second loop components protrude from this plane, in which both loop components exist in the non-extended state.

[0024] Preferably, in the non-extended position, the first height is considered to be at the thickest point in the loop element, and in the extended position, the second height is considered to be at the thickest point in the loop element.

[0025] More specifically, in at least one loop element, at least two loop components movable relative to each other are arranged adjacent to each other around the principal optical axis (i.e., in the azimuth direction), preferably directly adjacent to each other. In one embodiment, the loop components may be in contact in both a non-extended position and at least one extended position. Alternatively, the at least two loop components may be arranged at a distance from each other in the non-extended position.

[0026] It is possible that the artificial intraocular lens has at least one second loop element. More specifically, the second loop element also has at least two loop components as described above for the first loop element. It is also possible that the artificial intraocular lens has at least three such separate loop elements, which are spaced apart from each other and equidistant from each other in a circumferential direction around the principal optical axis. This possible third loop element may also advantageously have at least two loop components that are elastically movable relative to each other. More specifically, this mobility is in the direction of the principal optical axis.

[0027] In an advantageous implementation, when the two loop components of the at least one loop element are in their extended positions, these loop components are directly abutting each other at at least one point and extending relative to each other. This achieves a reliable and stable extended connection. The loop components are preferably placed against each other under stress.

[0028] Preferably, at least one extension element is designed to configure this orientational overlap with bite edges.

[0029] Preferably, at least one extension element (preferably all extension elements) is elastic. According to ISO 7619-1, the Shore A hardness of at least one extension element is preferably in the range of 60 to 100. This allows a loop component with such extension elements to be displaced from a non-extended position to an extended position with relatively low force consumption. Therefore, plastic deformation at the bend line of such a loop component can be avoided.

[0030] In an advantageous embodiment, it is possible that the first and second extension elements, at least in the extended position, are arranged in an overlapping manner when viewed radially relative to the principal optical axis. More specifically, the first and second extension elements may also be arranged in a directly adjacent manner, at least in some regions. This configuration can form an alternative to or in combination with the aforementioned orientational overlap. For example, depending on the geometry of the loop elements and / or the size of the intraocular lens and / or the configuration of the capsule, extension connections applicable individually in this regard can then be provided. More specifically, at this point, different intraocular lenses formed with different extension connection configurations can be provided.

[0031] In an advantageous implementation, at least two extension elements are arranged on at least two loop components such that, in the non-extended position of the loop components, the extension elements do not protrude beyond the two loop components in the direction of the principal optical axis or in the circumferential direction around the principal optical axis. As a result, an increase in the geometry of the loop components and / or unnecessary complexity in shape can be avoided. On the one hand, this allows for simple adjustment of the extension position.

[0032] In an advantageous embodiment, the stretching element has a wedge-shaped cross-section. This means that the stretching elements can move past each other in the direction of the principal optical axis from a non-stretched position to a stretched position with low friction. Therefore, uneven or abrupt transitions can be avoided.

[0033] It is possible that two extension elements of the two loop components are formed on the mutually facing surface areas of the two loop components. More specifically, these can be in a one-piece form. It is possible that at least one extension element takes the form of a one-piece, consistent, and therefore uninterrupted element. For example, this can take the form of a strip or rod. The extension element can be in a straight line form. An extension element can be formed with its longitudinal axis extending perpendicular to the main optical axis. At this point, the extension element extends radially relative to the main optical axis in a straight line. It is also possible that, viewed in the radial direction, the extension element is arranged at an angle relative to the main optical axis. More specifically, this involves a contact surface positioned at the extension position so that it directly abuts the other extension element.

[0034] Similarly, one of the two extension elements may be formed by at least two separate extension elements. These extension elements may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the radial direction and / or in the direction of the principal optical axis.

[0035] It is also possible that at least one extension element is in the form of a pin or nail. It is also possible that the extension element, in its non-extended position relative to the loop components, is positioned in a default position relative to the loop components, and in its extended position, is positioned in different holding positions. In this configuration, the extension element is thus a single piece on the loop component and movable relative to it. For example, the extension element can be in the form of a spring element. This spring element can be a spring nail or a spring pin. More specifically, in the default position, this type of extension element can be prestressed within a notch of the corresponding loop component. This default position of the extension element is maintained by the adjacent other loop components abutting it. If the loop component is then moved relative to the other loop components and the holding function of the prestressed extension element is released, the extension element will automatically move from its default position to the holding position and overlap with the other loop components of the loop component in the azimuth and / or radial directions. The extended position is then formed and held by the extension element itself.

[0036] In an alternative implementation, it is possible that even when the stretching element is formed by one or more stretching component elements, these stretching component elements extend to the correspondingly equal extent and in the same direction in both the default position and the held position.

[0037] If the extension element takes the form of a pin or nail in this configuration, the complementary second extension element can take the form of a recess, groove, or channel into which the first extension element engages. These recesses or channels are closed by a wall at at least one end. As a result, an extension position is established when the first extension element is guided away from or away from the second extension element, and the overlap formed between the two extension elements prevents the loop from returning from the extension position to the non-extension position.

[0038] Specifically, when the extension element has at least two extension component elements, at least two different extension positions can be achieved. Then, depending on the configuration of the extension connection, each of these individual discrete extension positions can be maintained individually, and the corresponding extension position can be blocked.

[0039] In an advantageous implementation, at least one connecting protrusion or connecting recess is formed on the top surface of at least one loop component. This connecting protrusion or connecting recess is configured to engage an adjustment tool to establish a specific extension position of the loop components relative to each other. As a result, medical personnel can easily define and quickly establish one of the possible extension positions. For example, such a connecting protrusion can be a clip that can hook onto a corresponding hook-shaped adjustment tool. Consequently, the loop component can then be displaced correspondingly to at least one other loop component of at least one loop element in the direction of the main optical axis (i.e., vertically upward or downward), or radially displaced in the direction of the main optical axis, so as to establish the extension position in a defined manner. Displacement in the direction toward the main optical axis can be achieved by compressing or squeezing the loop component in its longitudinal direction. To avoid unfavorable protrusions on the loop component, a connecting recess is advantageously provided. For example, this can be a blind hole or a through hole. Such a connecting recess can also have an edge. This configuration in the form of an edge (also known as a cut) again allows for specific engagement with the adjustment tool. As a result, when establishing the extended position, the adjustment tool will be less likely to slip off the loop component.

[0040] It is possible that, with at least two loop components in their extended positions, the second height is formed at the distal ends of the two loop components, i.e., at their radially outer ends. This is likely to be the case when at least two loop components of the loop element (viewed in the radial direction of the optical axis) separate at their free radially outer ends.

[0041] In an alternative implementation, it is possible that at least two loop components of the loop element in question are also directly adjacent to each other at these radially outer ends when in the extended position.

[0042] It is also possible that, in a working example, at least two loop components are designed as radially aligned rods oriented parallel to each other. More specifically, two such loop components are oriented parallel to each other. The loop components are, in particular, in a straight line form. It is also possible that the two loop components are directly connected to each other over a portion of their entire radial length. More specifically, this portion of the length can start from the end leading to the optical body and point radially outward.

[0043] This means that the curved edge around which the loop member, adjusted relative to at least one other loop member in the extended position, is spaced apart from the optical body and formed within the loop element itself, can be avoided. Therefore, the adverse effects on the optical body caused by this curvature and its maintenance in the extended position can be avoided.

[0044] In an advantageous implementation, one loop component may take the form of a radially oriented strip or bar. Viewed in a plane perpendicular to the principal optical axis, at least one additional loop component may be formed to surround this loop component in a frame-like manner. For example, this additional loop component may be U-shaped and one-piece in form. The various working examples described above may also be formed with this configuration of the loop elements.

[0045] More specifically, the intraocular lens takes the form of an intraocular lens implanted within a capsular bag. The intraocular lens can also be referred to as a capsular implantable intraocular lens. More specifically, the intraocular lens is a posterior chamber type lens intended for implantation within a capsular bag of the eye. This means that the intraocular lens is intended, and especially only, for implantation within a capsular bag of the eye.

[0046] In an advantageous implementation, the loop element has three loop components. These loop components can be formed to be adjacent and directly abutting each other in the circumferential direction around the main optical axis. Especially in this configuration, when establishing at least one extension position, the intermediate loop component is adjusted relative to the two other loop components in the azimuth direction, and especially when viewed in the azimuth direction, each loop component has an opposing first extension unit, which is adjacent to a second extension unit integrally formed in the two other loop components and extends in this manner.

[0047] Further features of the invention will be apparent from the claims, drawings, and description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned in the foregoing description, and those mentioned in the following description of the drawings and / or shown only in the drawings, can be used not only in the correspondingly specified combinations but also in other combinations without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention should also be considered to include and disclose embodiments of the invention that are not shown and explicitly illustrated in the drawings, but whose details arise from and can be created by individual combinations of features. The disclosure should also be considered to extend to combinations of embodiments and features that do not possess all the features of the independent claims as stated in the initial wording. Furthermore, the disclosure should be considered to extend, particularly by way of the embodiments described above, to combinations of embodiments and features that go beyond or begin with the feature combinations set forth in the dependent reference to the claims.

[0048] The specific values ​​of the parameters indicated in this document, as well as the data related to the parameter ratios or parameter values ​​of the working examples used to define the lens of the eye, should be considered to be included within the scope of the invention even within deviations caused, for example, due to measurement errors, system failures, DIN tolerances, etc. This means that it should also be considered to include the clarifications related to substantially corresponding values ​​and indications. Attached Figure Description

[0049] The working examples of the invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the schematic accompanying drawings. The drawings show:

[0050] Figure 1 This is a schematic three-dimensional diagram illustrating a working example of an artificial intraocular lens;

[0051] Figure 2a It is based on Figure 1 A front view of the intraocular lens loop element in the non-extended position of the loop component;

[0052] Figure 2b It is based on Figure 2a The diagram shows the extended positions of the loop components relative to each other;

[0053] Figure 3a This is a front view of the intraocular lens loop element in another embodiment when the loop component of the loop element is in the non-extended position;

[0054] Figure 3b It is based on Figure 3a The diagram of the loop component differs in that... Figure 3b The extended position of the loop component is shown;

[0055] Figure 4a This is a front view of the intraocular lens loop element in another embodiment when the loop component of the loop element is in the non-extended position;

[0056] Figure 4b It is based on Figure 4a The diagram of the loop component differs in that... Figure 4b The first extended position of the loop component is shown;

[0057] Figure 4c It is based on Figure 4a and Figure 4b The diagram of the loop component differs in that... Figure 4c The second extended position of the loop component is shown;

[0058] Figure 5 This is a top view of the loop element of the intraocular lens in another embodiment;

[0059] Figure 6 This is a top view of the loop element of the intraocular lens in another embodiment;

[0060] Figure 7 It is based on Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of an intraocular lens with loop elements;

[0061] Figure 8 It is based on Figure 7 A side view of a portion of an intraocular lens, in which the loop component is shown in an extended position;

[0062] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a capsular bag containing an implanted intraocular lens, showing, as... Figure 8 The loop element shown;

[0063] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of a capsular bag containing an implanted intraocular lens, showing, as... Figure 6 The loop element shown;

[0064] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of an intraocular lens with loop elements in another embodiment;

[0065] Figure 12 It is based on Figure 11 A side view of an intraocular lens, in which the loop component is shown in an extended position;

[0066] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of another working example of an intraocular lens with loop elements in a top view, wherein the loop elements are in a non-extended position;

[0067] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of another working example of an intraocular lens with loop elements in a top view, wherein the loop elements are in an extended position;

[0068] Figure 15 This is a diagram of another working example of an intraocular lens with loop elements, viewed from top view;

[0069] Figure 16a By according to Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the loop element of an intraocular lens, wherein the loop element is in a non-extended position;

[0070] Figure 16b It is based on Figure 15 A side view of the loop element of an intraocular lens, with the loop element in the extended position. Detailed Implementation

[0071] In the accompanying drawings, identical or functionally equivalent elements are given the same reference numerals.

[0072] Figure 1A perspective view of a working example of an artificial intraocular lens 1 is shown. This intraocular lens 1 is a posterior chamber type lens for implantation in a capsular bag of the eye. Therefore, this intraocular lens can also be referred to as a capsular implantable intraocular lens. The intraocular lens 1 has an optical body 2 in the form of a lens. The intraocular lens is designed to form the defining optical imaging characteristics of the intraocular lens 1. The intraocular lens 1 has an optical axis or principal optical axis A passing through the anterior side 3 and the posterior side 4 of the optical body 2. In this embodiment, the optical axis A passes through the optical body 2 at the geometric center M of the optical body. The intraocular lens 1 additionally has a first loop element 5, which is adjacent to the optical body 2 when viewed in the radial direction from the principal optical axis A. In the working example, the intraocular lens 1 additionally has a second loop element 6 and a third loop element 7. The three loop elements 5 to 7, formed here by way of example, are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction around the principal optical axis A, and are arranged in particular equidistantly from each other. Loop elements 5 to 7 hold the artificial lens 1 in the capsular bag.

[0073] In the working example, at least two, and especially three, loop elements 5 to 7 preferably have the same design. Therefore, the following explanation with reference to the first loop element 5 also applies in particular to the other loop elements 6 and 7 provided herein by way of example.

[0074] In the working example, this loop element 5 has a first loop component 8. Furthermore, the loop element has a second loop component 9. In the working example, it is envisioned that a third loop component 10 additionally forms part of the first loop element 5. The three loop components 8 to 10 are adjacent in the orientation direction relative to the principal optical axis A and are arranged in a directly adjacent manner. Therefore, there is an arrangement of a collection of multiple loop components 8 to 10 forming the first loop element 5 together. In the working example, the three loop components 8 to 10 take the form of strips extending in the radial direction. The loop components preferably have the same radial extent. More specifically, the loop components are oriented outward in a radial manner in the same direction, with their longitudinal axis radially oriented relative to the principal optical axis A. Figure 1As shown, when the loop members 8 to 10 are in their non-extended position relative to each other, these longitudinal axes are oriented in a common plane E1. This plane E1 is oriented perpendicular to the principal optical axis A. The three loop members 8 to 10 are separated from each other in at least one longitudinal portion of their radial range, and are therefore movable relative to each other. More specifically, at least the second loop member 9 is elastically deformable. In the working example, for this purpose, it is envisioned that the second loop member 9 is movable relative to the two other loop members 8 and 10 when viewed in the direction of the principal optical axis A. More specifically, the second loop member can be bent relative to the two other loop members 8 to 10 in the direction of the principal optical axis A, i.e., in the vertical direction, especially vertically upward, around the curved line 11 formed in the first loop element 5. This curved line 11 extends in a circumferential direction around the principal optical axis A. In particular, this curved line 11 is radially spaced from the edge 12 of the optical body 2, and therefore extends within the first loop element 5.

[0075] The first loop element 5 is designed such that loop components 8 to 10 can be displaced in the direction of the main optical axis A, specifically to at least two different positions. Figure 1 In the non-extended position shown, the first loop element or loop components 8 to 10 have a maximum value of a first height H1 measured in the direction of the principal optical axis A. This first height H1 should be understood as being measured at the position of the first loop element 5, where the first loop element 5 has its maximum height in this non-extended position. In the working example, it is envisioned that the first loop element 5 in this non-extended position is in the form of a plate and has this first height H1 over its entire cross-section.

[0076] According to the invention, the intraocular lens is formed such that the second loop member is displaceable relative to the first loop member 8 from a non-extended position to an extended position. In this at least one extended position, the first loop member 5 has a second height H2. The following text refers to... Figure 2b As illustrated in other examples, this second height H2 is greater than the first height H1. This second height H2 in the first loop element 5 is also measured at the point in the first loop element 5 where the first loop element 5 reaches its maximum height in the direction of the principal optical axis A, as measured in this extended position. This position can vary locally within the loop element depending on the configuration of the loop components 8 to 10 and / or the configuration of the extension connection 13. However, this is a secondary factor for functionality. This second height must be formed at at least one point in the loop element in the extended position. This is particularly advantageous when the second height H2 is greater than the maximum thickness (e.g., central thickness HL) of the optical body 2 when an intraocular lens 1 is implanted. This allows the optical body 2 of the intraocular lens 1 implanted in the capsular bag to not contact the capsular bag wall. In particular, the posterior side 4 of the optical body 2 of the intraocular lens 1 can therefore be arranged spaced apart from the posterior capsular bag wall.

[0077] Figure 2aA schematic diagram of the front view of the first loop element 5 is shown. (As in...) Figure 1 As is further evident in the implementation, the loop components 8 to 10 are separated from each other until their distal ends 81, 91 and 101.

[0078] like Figure 2a As is evident, loop components 8 to 10 are arranged such that they overlap in the top view. In the working example shown, the first loop component 8 has a first extension element 14. The first extension element is integrally formed at the sidewall of the first loop component 8, which faces the second loop component 9. Figure 2a It is evident that in this implementation, the first extension element 14 has a wedge-shaped cross-section. The first extension element extends over the entire height of the first loop member 8. This height is measured in the direction of the principal optical axis A, i.e., in the vertical direction. It is also evident that the second loop member 9 has a second extension element 15. The second extension element is also formed to have a wedge-shaped cross-section. The second extension element also extends over the entire height of the second loop member 9. The second extension element is integrally formed on the sidewall of the second loop member 9 facing the first loop member 8. Therefore, the two extension elements 14 and 15 are formed complementaryly, and... Figure 2a In the non-extended position shown, they are arranged adjacent to each other, preferably directly adjacent to each other.

[0079] Furthermore, in the working example shown, the second loop member 9 has another second extension element 16. This second extension element is integrated into the sidewall facing the third loop member 10. This third loop member 10 has another first extension element 17. This is integrated into the sidewall facing the second loop member 9. These additional extension elements 16 and 17 are also formed with a wedge-shaped cross-section. These additional extension elements also extend over the entire height of the second loop member 9 and the third loop member 10. As is also evident in the other second extension element 16 and the other first extension element 17, when the first loop member 5 is viewed in top view, these overlaps are located at... Figure 2a The non-extended positions are shown. They face each other and are shaped as complementary. They are also particularly adjacent to each other. By means of Figure 2a In the configuration shown, the azimuth cross-sectional area of ​​the second loop component 9 is trapezoidal.

[0080] exist Figure 2a In the first loop, the second loop component 9 is in a non-extended position relative to the first loop component 8. Then, the second loop component 9 can be moved relative to the first loop component 8 in the direction of the principal optical axis A (i.e., vertically upward) to an extended position. Figure 2b In the illustrated embodiment, the second loop member 9 is additionally in an extended position relative to the third loop member 10. For this purpose, the second extended members 15 and 16 of the second loop member 9 are displaced via the first extended members 14 and 17. Figure 2b As is evident, the extension elements 15 and 14, which move past each other, are directly adjacent to each other. The same applies to extension elements 16 and 17. They are also directly adjacent to each other. The effect of the vertical overlap of extension elements 14 and 15, and extension elements 16 and 17, is that the loop component can remain in this extended position, and the extended position can therefore be held or locked in place.

[0081] When the second loop component 9 is displaced by the first loop component 8 and the third loop component 10, the second loop component 9, together with the second extension element 15, presses downward onto the first extension element 14 in the direction of the main optical axis A. Simultaneously, another second extension element 16 presses onto another first extension element 17, also applying a downward force in the direction of the main optical axis A. This causes the first loop component 8 and the third loop component 10 to displace in the downward direction. In the non-extended state of the loop element 5, the top side of the first loop element 5 is positioned at position L1 in the space; see reference. Figure 2a In the extended position, this top side displaces downwards along the principal optical axis A and reaches position L2 in space; reference Figure 2b .

[0082] In other words, the second loop component 9 can be vertically moved upward from its rest position to the support position, i.e., in the direction of the main optical axis A. Once the height of the first and third loop components 8 and 10 has been overcome, a vertically downward force is applied to the first loop component 8 and the third loop component 10. The second loop component 9 remains under elastic stress when it is above the first loop component 8 and the third loop component 10, while the first loop component 8 and the third loop component 10 are simultaneously pushed downward by the second loop component 9. Since the first loop component 8 and the third loop component 10, as well as the second loop component 9, do not return to their original rest positions but are continuously moved into the new plane by the extension elements 14 to 17, this is an extension configuration. Therefore, the first loop component 8 and the third loop component 10 form an extension connection with the second loop component 9.

[0083] This extended position is locked in place by extension elements 14 to 17 and does not automatically return to the non-extended position. In this extended position, extension elements 14 and 15, as well as 16 and 17, also overlap in the azimuth direction. Figure 2b The accompanying diagram includes a second height H2; in the working example, the second height is twice the first height H1.

[0084] For the movement of the second loop component 9, in an advantageous configuration, a connecting element may be provided. According to... Figure 1 In the working example, this connecting element is activated by the connecting recess 18 formed in the second loop member 9. An adjusting tool can engage with this connecting recess 18 to bend the second loop member 9 upwards according to the figure, thereby enabling the following... Figure 2bThe loop components 8 to 10 are shown in discrete extended positions relative to each other.

[0085] It is possible that these extension elements 14 to 17 are in the form of straight rods. These extension elements can extend radially according to their wedge shape. These extension elements can extend perpendicularly to the main optical axis A throughout their entire radial longitudinal range. This means that the longitudinal axis of the radially oriented extension elements 14 to 17 is oriented perpendicularly to the main optical axis A. However, another possibility is an arrangement in which the longitudinal axis forming the extension elements 14 to 17 is inclined relative to the main optical axis A.

[0086] It is possible that the extension elements 14 to 17 extend substantially over the entire longitudinal range of the loop members 8 to 10. Preferably, such extension elements 14 to 17 extend only over a portion of the total length of the loop members 8 to 10 as measured in the radial direction. In this working example, Figure 1 The design envisions that the extension elements 14 to 17 extend only a portion of their length from the distal ends 81, 91, and 101 up to, for example, half or two-thirds of the total radial length of the loop components 8 to 10. For example, as... Figure 1 As shown, the radially inner ends of the extension elements 14 to 17 can be formed at point 19. In the working example, in this connection, cuts 20 and 21 can also be formed between loop members 8 and 9 and between 9 and 10. These cuts improve the mobility of the second loop member 9 when bending around the bend line 11, so that it is not obstructed by the extension elements 14 to 17 extending therein.

[0087] Figure 3a In such Figure 2a Another working example of an intraocular lens 1 with a first loop element 5 is shown in the corresponding front view. (According to...) Figure 2a Compared to the previous diagram, the second extension elements 15 and 16 here do not extend over the entire height of the second loop member 9. More specifically, at least a sub-region of the mutually facing sidewalls of loop members 8 and 9, and 9 and 10, are vertically oriented here. Figure 3b In the same similar Figure 2a The corresponding cross-sectional view shows the extended positions of the loop components 8 to 10 relative to each other.

[0088] exist Figures 2a to 3b In each working example shown, only one stretch position is possible.

[0089] Figure 4a In corresponding Figure 2a and Figure 3a A working example is shown in the front view, wherein the second loop component 9 is displaceable relative to the first loop component 8 to at least two discrete, different extended positions. Figure 4aThe loop components 8 to 10 are shown in their non-extended positions relative to each other. Figure 4b The first extended position of the second loop member 9 relative to the first loop member 8 is shown. In this extended position, the two extending elements 15 and 16 of the second loop member 9 are arranged to engage with groove-like cutouts in the sidewalls of the lateral loop members 8 and 9. In this way, the second loop member 9 is also held and locked in place relative to the first loop member 8 in this first extended position. In this working example, the first loop member 8 has two separate first extending elements 14. This involves upper and lower first extending elements 14. Two separate first extending elements 17 are also formed accordingly in the third loop member 10. More specifically, these first extending elements 14 are arranged vertically to each other and are therefore axially stacked as viewed in the direction of the main optical axis 8. The first extending elements 17 are correspondingly formed in the third loop member 10. Here, the corresponding extending elements 14, 15, 16 and 17 are in one piece with the corresponding loop members 8, 9 and 10.

[0090] according to Figure 4c The diagram illustrates the second extended position that can be achieved. In this second extended position, a height H2 is reached at the distal ends of loop components 8, 9, and 10, which is twice the first height H1. In the first extended position, in contrast, according to Figure 4c The height of the first loop element 5 in the direction of the principal optical axis A in the cross-sectional plane is also greater than the first height H1 but less than the height H2.

[0091] In the non-extended state of the loop element 5, the top side of the first loop element 5 is positioned in the first position L1 in the space; Reference Figure 4a In the first extended position, this top side shifts downward in the direction of the principal optical axis A and reaches the second position L2 in space; Reference Figure 4b In the second extended position, the second loop member 9 applies an even greater compressive force in the direction of the principal optical axis A to the first loop member 8 and the third loop member 10, causing the top side of the first loop member 5 to move to the third position L3, even below position L2; (Refer to...) Figure 4c .

[0092] Figure 5 A top view of the first loop element 5 of the intraocular lens 1 in another embodiment is shown. Therefore, the diagram is shown viewed in the direction of the principal optical axis A. In this implementation, it is evident that cutouts 20 and 21 are provided between the loop members 8 to 10, respectively, such that they are not aligned along this range of cutouts 20 and 21. Thus, the loop members 8 to 10 are curved strips that can be displaced at least vertically at their respective distal ends 81, 91, and 101.

[0093] Figure 5Two connecting recesses 18 are shown. These may also be formed in all other embodiments. Thus, corresponding connections to the adjusting tool may exist at different locations in the radial direction. It is also possible that the adjusting tool can engage with both connecting recesses simultaneously, thereby achieving an improved mechanical connection and enabling the corresponding adjusting movement. Extending elements 14 and 17 are indicated here by dashed lines.

[0094] Alternatively, the second extension elements 15 to 16 may extend to or from the distal end 91. Alternatively, the first extension elements 14 and 17 may be formed to or from the distal ends 81 and 101.

[0095] Figure 6 Another working example of an intraocular lens 1 with a first loop element 5 is shown. Corresponding to Figure 5 Viewing this diagram, the viewing direction is also along the direction of the principal optical axis A on the first loop element 5. In this implementation, the first loop element 5 has a first loop component 8, a second loop component 10, and a zone 83 connecting the two loop elements 8 and 10. Furthermore, the first loop element 5 also has a second loop component 9 in the middle region, which is spaced apart from the first loop component 8, the zone 83, and the third loop component 10 by cutouts 20, 21, and 22. The first loop component, the zone, and the third loop component form a frame around the second loop component 9. In this implementation, when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the principal optical axis A, the second loop component 9 also takes the form of a radially extending strip or a radially extending plate. More specifically, the first loop component 8, together with the third loop component 10 and the zone 83, protrudes radially outward further than the second loop component 9. (Regarding the...) Figures 2a to 5 The example illustrates that the configuration options for the intraocular lens 1 can be set according to, in addition to the extension elements 14 to 17 not extending to the distal ends 81 and 101. Figure 6 In the implementation method.

[0096] It should be mentioned at this early stage that additional or alternative examples of work may exist, in which the stretching elements are formed to overlap in the radial direction. More specifically, this can also be envisioned in both non-stretched positions and at least one possible stretching position.

[0097] Similarly, there may be working examples where the stretching element is formed to overlap in both the azimuth and radial directions.

[0098] Figure 7 It shows that by according to Figure 5 A vertical cross-sectional view of a working example of an artificial lens 1, wherein the first loop component 8 and the second loop component 9 are in the non-extended position.

[0099] Figure 8 It shows according to Figure 7A side view of a working example of an intraocular lens 1, differing in that the second loop member 9 is in an extended position relative to the first loop member 8. The first loop member 8 has a first edge line 84, which is present on the top side 85 at the distal end 81 of the first loop member 8. Furthermore, the first loop member 8 has a second edge line 86, which is present on the bottom side 87 at the distal end 81 of the first loop member 8. Similarly, the second loop member 9 has a third edge line 94, which is present on the top side 95 at the distal end 91 of the second loop member 9. A fourth edge line 96 is formed on the bottom side 97 at the distal end 91 of the second loop member 9. The first edge line 84 and the fourth edge line 96 are separated by an axial distance H3, i.e., a distance H3 measured in the direction of the principal optical axis A.

[0100] This embodiment is particularly advantageous because it produces a significant extension between the second loop member 9 and the first loop member 8, or between the second loop member 9 and the third loop member 10. A height H2 greater than twice the height H1 is achieved between the third edge line 94 of the second loop member 9 and the second edge line 86 of the first loop member 8.

[0101] Figure 9 The cross-section of the pouch 30 shows the... Figure 8 The intraocular lens 1 of the illustrated embodiment has a first loop component 8 and a second loop component 9, respectively, for the first loop element 5 and the second loop element 6. It is evident that a relatively high distance H4 can be achieved between the optical body 2 and the capsule 30.

[0102] Figure 10 Another embodiment of the intraocular lens 1 is shown in a cross-section through the capsular bag. Here, the first loop member 8 is implemented with relatively higher flexural stiffness compared to the second loop member 9. Therefore, the second loop member 9, having the second extension element 15, bends significantly downward upon displacement along the principal optical axis A, while the first loop member 8 remains almost in its position without sagging. This may be sufficient to ensure a adequate distance H4 between the posterior wall of the capsular bag 30 and the posterior side 4 of the optical body 2, allowing this area to be flushed with aqueous humor and reducing the formation of posterior cataracts.

[0103] Figure 11Another embodiment of an intraocular lens 1 having a first loop element 5 is shown in a vertical cross-section. The second loop member 9 has a second extension element 15, which is formed to bend on its underside in an extending direction that extends in a plane perpendicular to the principal optical axis A. When the second loop member 9 moves upward in the direction of the principal optical axis A, the underside of the second extension element 15 can lie flat on the top side of the first extension element 14. The second extension element 15 then applies a downwardly pointing compressive force to the edge region of the first loop member 8, causing the first loop member 8 to sag; see reference. Figure 12 This is also similar to another second extension element 16, whose curved bottom side contacts the surface of another first extension element 17 in a two-dimensional manner. This makes the height H2 almost twice the size of the height H1 between the third edge line 94 of the second loop member 9 and the second edge line 86 of the first loop member 8. This embodiment is advantageous because the large-area contact between the second extension element 15 and the top side 85 of the first loop member 8 achieves a very stable extension connection 13.

[0104] Figure 13 A schematic diagram of another working example of an intraocular lens having a first loop element 5 is shown in a top view. In this embodiment, at least a second extension element 15 and another second extension element 16 are provided. The second extension elements 15 and 16 are integral with the second loop component 9. In this working example, the first extension elements 14 and 17 are formed by loop components 8 and 10. Figure 13 In the non-extended position shown, the second extension elements 15 and 16 are shown in a pre-stressed position. In this position, the second extension elements are internally arranged in cuts 23 and 24, which are located in the sidewalls of the second loop member 9 facing the loop members 8 and 10. This pre-stressed position is maintained such that the second extension elements 15 and 16 are directly abutting the loop members 8 and 10. If the second loop member 9 is then moved, particularly in the direction of the principal optical axis A relative to the other loop members 8 and 10 about the bend line 11, in this case vertically upward, a position is reached during this movement in which the second extension elements 15 and 16 are no longer positioned in contact with the facing sidewalls of the loop members 8 and 10. In this position, the second extension elements 15 and 16 pivot laterally upward and then abut the first extension elements 14 and 17 on the top side of the loop members 8 and 10 to secure the formed extended position. In this implementation, overlap occurs only between the first extension elements 14 and 15 and the second extension elements 16 and 17 in the extended position. Figure 14 The extended position is shown schematically, with a top view of the first loop element 5 shown.

[0105] like Figure 14The first loop element 5, namely the second extension element 15 and another second extension element 16, protrude laterally from the second loop component 9. Before inserting the intraocular lens 1 into the eye, the second extension element 15 is pivoted -90° and the other second extension element 16 is pivoted +90°, such that the two extension elements 15 and 16 respectively engage in corresponding incisions 23 and 24, in which the extension elements remain in a pre-stressed position. Then, the intraocular lens is implanted, with the extension elements 15 and 16 in the pre-stressed position. When the intraocular lens 1 is present in the capsular bag, the operator moves the second loop component 9 in the direction of the principal optical axis A and is able to pivot the second extension elements 15 and 16 to achieve the extended position.

[0106] Figure 15 A schematic top view of another working example of an intraocular lens 1 having a first loop element 5 is shown. This is preferably based on Figure 6 The implementation shown in the diagram indicates that the first loop component 8 is connected to the third loop component 10 in a frame-like manner via a zone 83. The assembly consisting of the first loop component 8, the zone 83, and the third loop component 10 has relatively high flexural stiffness. The zone 83 is considered to form part of the first loop component 8. The first loop component 8 has a first extension element 14, and the second loop component 9 has a second extension element 15; see reference... Figure 16a The second extension element 15 is disposed at the distal end 91 of the second loop member 9 and forms an extension of this distal end 91, wherein the distal end 91 preferably has an end face 92 arranged vertically. The path of the second extension element 15 is preferably inclined relative to the end face 92 in cross-section. The first loop member 8 has a proximal end 82, which is complementary to and closer to the distal end 91 having the second extension element 15.

[0107] According to ISO 7619-1, all components of the intraocular lens 1 are made of a material with a Shore A hardness in the range of 60 to 100; therefore, the components are relatively soft and elastically deformable. This applies to all embodiments disclosed in this document.

[0108] If the second loop member 9 shifts upward in the direction of the main optical axis A, the second extension element 15 abuts against the ground zone 83. Due to the lower rigidity of the second loop member 9, the second loop member is radially compressed and can shift through the ground zone 83 until the second extension element 15 rests against the first extension element 14; Reference Figure 16b .

[0109] This embodiment is advantageous because the loop element 5 in this extended position reaches a height H2, which is more than twice the height H1.

[0110] Figure label:

[0111] 1. Intraocular lens

[0112] 2 Optical body

[0113] 3. Front side of the optical body

[0114] 4. Rear side of the optical body

[0115] 5 First loop element

[0116] 6 Second loop element

[0117] 7 Third loop element

[0118] 8 First loop component

[0119] 9 Second loop component

[0120] 10 Third loop component

[0121] 11. Curved line

[0122] 12. Edge of the optical body

[0123] 13. Extension Connection

[0124] 14 First extension element

[0125] 15 Second extension element

[0126] 16 Another second extension element

[0127] 17 Another first extension element

[0128] 18. Connection recess

[0129] 19 positions

[0130] 20 incisions

[0131] 21 Incisions

[0132] 22 Incisions

[0133] 23 Incisions

[0134] 24 Incisions

[0135] 30 pouches

[0136] 81 The distal end of the first loop component

[0137] 82 Proximal end of the first loop component

[0138] 83 Zone

[0139] 84 First Edge Line

[0140] 85 Top side of the first loop component

[0141] 86 Second edge line

[0142] 87 The bottom side of the first loop component

[0143] 91 The distal end of the second loop component

[0144] 92 End face of the second loop component

[0145] 94 Third Edge Line

[0146] 95 Top side of the second loop component

[0147] 96 Fourth edge line

[0148] 97. The bottom side of the second loop component

[0149] 101 The distal end of the third loop component

[0150] A principal optical axis

[0151] E1 is the plane of the first loop element in its non-extended position.

[0152] H1 First Height

[0153] H2 Second Height

[0154] H3 Distance

[0155] H4 Distance

[0156] HL center thickness

[0157] L1 First Floor

[0158] L2 Second Layer

[0159] L3 Third Layer

[0160] M Geometric Center

Claims

1. An artificial lens (1) having an optical body (2) and at least one loop element (5, 6, 7) connected to the optical body (2), wherein, The at least one loop element (5, 6, 7) has a first loop component (8) and at least one second loop component (9) formed adjacent thereto, the second loop component being elastically movable relative to the first loop component (8), and having a principal optical axis (A) passing through the front side (3) and rear side (4) of the optical body (2), wherein the loop element (5, 6, 7) has a maximum value of a first height (H1) measured in the direction of the principal optical axis (A), wherein the second loop component (9) is movable from a non-extended position to an extended position relative to the first loop component (8) in such a way as the loop element (5, 6, 7) measured in the direction of the principal optical axis The second loop component (9) reaches a maximum value of a second height (H2) greater than the first height (H1), and in the extended position, the second loop component (9) is able to lock in place relative to the first loop component (8), wherein the first loop component (8) has at least one first extension element (14, 17), and the second loop component (9) has at least one second extension element (15, 16), wherein the first extension element (14, 17) and the second extension element (15, 16) are arranged in an overlapping manner and are directly adjacent to each other in at least some areas when viewed in the circumferential direction around the main optical axis (A).

2. The intraocular lens (1) as described in claim 1. Its features are, The first extension element (14, 17) and the second extension element (15, 16) are arranged, at least in the extended position, to overlap each other in a radial direction starting from the main optical axis (A) and to be directly adjacent to each other in at least some areas.

3. The intraocular lens (1) as described in claim 1 or 2. Its features are, These extension elements (14, 15, 16, 17) are arranged on these loop parts (8, 9) such that when these loop parts (8, 9) are in the non-extended position, these extension elements do not protrude beyond the two loop parts (8, 9) in the direction of the main optical axis (A) or in the circumferential direction around the main optical axis (A).

4. The intraocular lens (1) as described in claim 1 or 2. Its features are, These extension elements (14, 15, 16, 17) have wedge-shaped cross sections.

5. The intraocular lens (1) as described in claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The second height (H2) is greater than the center thickness (HL) of the optical body (2).

6. The intraocular lens (1) as described in claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The connecting protrusions or connecting recesses (18) formed on the top surface of the loop components (8, 9) are provided for engaging adjustment tools to establish specific extension positions of these loop components (8, 9) relative to each other.

7. The intraocular lens (1) as described in claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The artificial lens (1) is a posterior chamber lens for implantation in the capsular bag of the eye.

Images