Transplant device for inserting an implant into tissue

Abstract

The present invention relates to an implantation device for inserting a plant into a tissue, particularly into an eye. The implantation device has a housing, a plunger at least partially received in the housing, and a connection device for connecting a hollow needle and / or a hollow needle to the housing at an axial end of the housing, and the plunger is axially movable relative to the housing and / or the needle. Preferably, the implantation device has an actuator for moving the plunger relative to the housing, and the actuator has or forms a lever mechanism.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] According to the preamble of claim 1, the present invention relates to a transplantation device for inserting an implant into tissue, in particular into the eye.

Background Art

[0002] The transplantation device according to the present invention is preferably adapted to insert an implant into a patient, in particular into human or animal tissue. In particular, the transplantation device according to the present invention is adapted for intravitreal insertion or injection of an implant. In other words, the tissue is preferably the eye of the patient or a part thereof, in particular the vitreous body or the vitreous cavity, the anterior chamber and / or the posterior chamber. The implant is in particular an intravitreal implant and / or an implant that functions to release a pharmaceutical or drug or bioactive substance into the eye, in particular into the vitreous body, over a long period of time such as several weeks or months, in particular for a period of up to three years.

[0003] Generally, transplantation devices for inserting an implant into the eye are known in the art.

[0004] US 2013 / 0158561 A1 relates to an assembly for implanting an intraocular implant into the eye of a mammal. The assembly includes a cannula having a curved distal end, an injector mechanism coupled to the cannula for linearly moving one or more implant segments within the cannula toward the curved distal end, and a rotator mechanism for rotating the cannula about its longitudinal axis. The device can be actuated by the user pressing a release button, which drives a plunger to push the implant segment along the needle by means of a compression spring.

[0005] US 2014 / 0031833 A1 relates to an intraocular injector including a syringe body, where the syringe body has an open-ended cone disposed at one end thereof and a piston disposed in the body. A transparent implant holder having a lumen therein is aligned with the open end of the cone. Injection is performed through a needle using a bevel disposed at the distal end. A plunger fixed to the piston and slidable within the holder lumen and the needle lumen is provided for injecting a solid intraocular implant into the eye. The plunger can be moved by pressing against a thumb pad disposed at the end of the plunger.

[0006] WO 2009 / 061988 A1 relates to an intraocular implantation device including a housing having a longitudinal axis, a needle configured to receive an implant, and a plunger and a rod operatively coupled to each other. The plunger and the rod are disposed in the housing and are jointly translatable along the longitudinal axis of the housing. The rod is configured to be receivable within at least a portion of the needle to enable the rod to move the implant therethrough. An actuator is operatively engaged with the plunger such that movement of the actuator in a direction aligned with the longitudinal axis of the housing results in translational movement of the plunger and the rod along the longitudinal axis of the housing for delivering the implant through the needle to a target site.

[0007] WO 2013 / 120033 A1 relates to an injector device for delivering an implant. The device includes a retraction element, a cannula needle, and a plunger. The device can include a latch that, when actuated by a user, causes the cannula needle to be withdrawn from a delivery site and enables the plunger to release the implant into the site. The device can be configured for intraocular drug delivery.

[0008] WO 2016 / 040605 A1 relates to an injector device for delivering a payload to the eye. The injector device includes a housing, a cannula defining a lumen and having a proximal end received in the housing and a distal portion extending from the housing, a hollow needle including a distal end having a tip for penetrating tissue, a shifter for shifting the needle from an extended position to a retracted position, and an actuator for advancing the payload from an initial position and exiting it from the distal end of the cannula.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0009]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Patent Document 4

Patent Document 5

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0010] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved implant device that is easy to use and / or easy to operate, intuitive, and / or safe, and / or has a simple configuration and / or is easy to manufacture and / or cost-effective.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0011] The above object is achieved by the implant device according to claim 1. Further advantageous developments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0012] The implant device according to the present invention is preferably adapted to hold an implant and / or insert the implant into the tissue of a patient, such as a human or an animal, particularly a mammal. In particular, the implant device is adapted to insert or inject an implant into the eye, particularly into the vitreous body or the vitreous cavity, the anterior chamber, and / or the posterior chamber of the eye.

[0013] The implant device has a housing and a plunger, preferably at least partially received in the housing. The implant device preferably has a cannula or a hollow needle and / or a connection device for connecting the cannula or the hollow needle to the housing. The needle and / or the connection device are preferably arranged at the axial end of the housing. The plunger is axially movable relative to the housing, the needle, and / or the connection device. The hollow needle will hereinafter be mainly abbreviated as "needle".

[0014] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the implant device preferably has an actuator for moving the plunger relative to the housing, the actuator having or forming a lever mechanism. This enables easy and convenient use of the implant device, particularly single-handed use, while at the same time achieving a simple construction of the implant device.

[0015] According to another aspect, which may also be implemented independently, the hollow needle is preferably freely rotatable about its longitudinal axis and relative to the housing. In other words, it is preferred that the needle can be positioned in any rotational position and / or that the needle is not limited to individual rotational positions. This allows the user to freely control or adjust the rotational angle between the needle and the housing and / or the actuator, enabling optimal control of the injection of the implant.

[0016] In another aspect, which may be implemented independently, the implantation device preferably has a holding device for holding the implant received in the needle in a fixed position. The holding device prevents the implant from accidentally falling out of the needle before injection into the tissue or the eye. That is, the use of the implantation device is made easier and failsafe.

[0017] In another aspect, which may be implemented independently, the implantation device preferably has a cap configured to cover the needle, the cap including an implant lock for keeping the implant inside the needle. Thereby, the use of the implantation device is made easier and safer. The cap protects the needle against breakage and protects the user from the needle. Further, the sterility of the needle is maintained by the cap. By integrating the implant lock into the cap, on the one hand, the implant is prevented from accidentally falling out of the needle before it is injected / inserted into the tissue or the eye, and on the other hand, the number of preparatory steps before inserting the implant is reduced because the cap and the implant lock can be removed in one common step.

[0018] Preferably, the actuator has or forms a toggle joint. The toggle joint is in particular a specific type of lever mechanism. According to the invention, the toggle joint has or consists of two bars or arms, which are connected by a joint arranged at the end of the bar or arm. This contributes to a simple and cost-effective configuration. The toggle joint allows for a very precise amount of force used to push the implant out of the needle and / or very precise control of the plunger. At the same time, the implantation device and in particular the actuator or the actuating mechanism can be manufactured very easily and thus cost-effectively.

[0019] The actuator preferably has an arm forming a secondary lever. The secondary lever is in particular a specific type of lever mechanism. In the secondary lever, the resistance or load is between the force point and the fulcrum. Thanks to the secondary lever, the force required to activate the actuator is very low and the position of the plunger can be controlled very precisely. At the same time, the actuator can be manufactured very easily and thus cost-effectively.;

[0020] The actuator preferably has an arm with a first section and a second section. In the present specification, the first section preferably forms a toggle joint lever or bar, and the second section forms an actuating section. In particular, the arm having the first section and the second section simultaneously forms a secondary lever. This contributes to the simple and easy handling or use of the implant device and at the same time enables a simple and cost-efficient configuration.

[0021] Preferably, the actuator has an arm configured and / or arranged to act directly on and / or move the plunger. By the arm acting on the plunger, the plunger preferably moves when the actuator is actuated. The movement of the plunger is in particular axial and / or towards the needle and / or the connection device. The arm configured / arranged to act directly on the plunger preferably forms one arm of a toggle joint and / or forms a single-sided lever and / or is a different arm from the arm having the first and second sections.

[0022] The actuator is preferably designed as a one-piece component. In particular, the actuator preferably has at least two arms formed in one piece. The two arms are preferably connected by a film hinge and / or a joint. This reduces the number of parts to be produced and also reduces the number of steps required to assemble the implant device.

[0023] The actuator is preferably configured such that the plunger is snap - fastened to the plunger when or after the plunger reaches its final position. The snap - fastening preferably generates a tactile, visual, and / or audible signal. In particular, the snap - fastening provides the user of the implant device with tactile, visual, and / or audible feedback that indicates, in particular, that the final position of the plunger has been reached and / or that the implant has been inserted into the tissue or the eye.

[0024] The plunger is preferably latched in its initial position. Alternatively or in addition, the implant device is configured such that a force threshold must be exceeded to move the plunger from its initial position and / or towards the needle and / or the connection device. In particular, the latching of the plunger causes a force threshold that must be exceeded to move the plunger. This prevents accidental actuation or movement of the plunger. Further, since the plunger is not moved immediately upon actuation but rather must first exceed a force threshold, which is then comfortably accepted by the user, the latching or the force threshold results in improved ease of use of the implant device.

[0025] The implant device preferably includes a grip that is rotatably connected or connectable to the housing and is particularly connected or connectable to the needle in a rotational fixation manner such that the needle can be rotated relative to the housing by rotation of the grip. This allows adjustment / positioning of the needle to a desired rotational position relative to the housing, which in turn makes the implant device more comfortable for the user and allows for precise control of the insertion of the implant into the tissue.

[0026] The plunger and / or the housing can be arranged and / or configured in such a way that the movement of the plunger relative to the housing is impeded by friction. This results in improved ease of use and, in particular, in the user of the implant device receiving a better feedback of the movement of the plunger and / or a better sense of control. In particular, accidental movement of the plunger and / or accidental delivery of the implant can be prevented or the risk thereof can be reduced.

[0027] Preferably, the implant device includes an air passage between the plunger and the housing. The air passage in particular enables air to leave the implant device on the opposite side of the needle, the implant, and / or the connection device. Thereby, accidental injection of air into the tissue or the eye is prevented.

[0028] Preferably, the implant device has at least one fixing device, preferably at least or exactly two fixing devices. The fixing device is arranged in particular at the (axial) end of the implant device and / or on the opposite side of the needle and / or the connection device. Particularly preferably, the implant device has a first fixing device for preventing the axial movement of the plunger towards the needle and / or the connection device. Instead of or in addition to this, the implant device has a second fixing device for preventing the axial movement of the plunger away from the needle and / or the connection device. Thereby, accidental movement and / or actuation of the plunger can be prevented or blocked. This improves ease of use and safety.

[0029] The implant device preferably has a blocking device for preventing the actuation of the implant device and / or the actuator, in particular the pressing down of the actuator and / or its first arm, and preferably the blocking device is additionally configured to prevent the movement of the plunger towards the needle and / or the implant. This contributes to safety and prevents accidental actuation. Furthermore, the assembly of the implant device is preferably facilitated.

[0030] The housing may be at least partially translucent or transparent, particularly when the plunger or its parts are visible through the housing. This enables the user of the implant device to visually control the movement of the plunger and / or provides visual feedback to the user. This enables better and more accurate control of the actuation process and / or the insertion process.

[0031] Alternatively or additionally, the implant device or the housing may have an indicator for indicating the status and / or position of the holding device and / or the implant, and the indicator is preferably visible through an opening in the implant device and / or the housing and / or the connection device. This enables the user of the implant device to visually control the implantation process and / or provides visual feedback to the user. This enables better and more accurate control of the actuation process and / or the insertion process.

[0032] The implant device preferably includes a pusher for pushing the implant out of the needle. In particular, the plunger includes the pusher, or the pusher is disposed on or connected to the plunger. The pusher is preferably in the form of a wire and / or made of metal, particularly steel.

[0033] The holding device is preferably designed as an elastic element, particularly a spring.

[0034] Preferably, the implant device includes or is adapted to receive the implant. Particularly preferably, the implant is receivable or receivable in a hollow needle.

[0035] The aspects and features of the present invention mentioned above, and the aspects and features of the present invention that will become apparent from the claims and the following description, can in principle be implemented independently of each other or in any combination or order.

[0036] Still other aspects, advantages, features, and characteristics of the present invention will become apparent from the claims and from the following description of the preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0037]

Figure 1

Figure 2

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Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

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Figure 16

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0038] In the figures, the same or similar parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals, which bring about corresponding or equivalent characteristics, features, and advantages even if these characteristics, features, and advantages are not repeatedly described.

[0039] FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of an implant device 1 according to the present invention. FIG. 2 shows the implant device 1 according to the first embodiment in an exploded view.

[0040] The implant device 1 is configured to insert an implant 2 into the tissue of a patient (not shown). The patient is particularly a human or an animal, especially a mammal. The tissue is preferably the eye of the patient, particularly the vitreous body or the vitreous cavity, the anterior eye chamber, or the posterior eye chamber.

[0041] In other words, the present invention relates to an implant device 1 for intravitreal injection or intravitreal insertion of the implant 2.

[0042] The implant 2 is preferably an intravitreal implant. Preferably, the implant 2 contains a pharmaceutical, a drug, or a bioactive substance, and is particularly configured to release the pharmaceutical, the drug, or the bioactive substance into the eye after insertion. In particular, the implant 2 is adapted to release the pharmaceutical, the drug, or the bioactive substance over a period of several weeks or months, particularly up to 3 years.

[0043] The implant 2 is preferably shaped as a tube or a capsule and / or includes an impermeable or semi-permeable membrane. The pharmaceutical, the drug, or the bioactive substance is preferably received or disposed within the membrane, the capsule, or the tube.

[0044] Preferably, the implant 2 has a length of 10 mm or less, preferably 5 mm or less, particularly preferably 2 mm or less, and / or a width of 1 mm or less, preferably 0.5 mm or less, particularly preferably 0.3 mm or less.

[0045] The implant device 1 has a housing 3 and a plunger 4. The plunger 4 is at least partially received in the housing 3.

[0046] The housing 3 preferably has and / or surrounds an inner 3C. The plunger 4 is particularly at least partially received in or receivable in the inner 3C. The inner 3C is preferably at least substantially cylindrical. The inner 3C is preferably defined or bounded by a wall 3D of the housing 3, particularly the inner wall.

[0047] The housing 3 is preferably at least partially translucent and / or transparent. In particular, the plunger 4 or at least a part thereof is visible through the housing 3.

[0048] The implant device 1 has a longitudinal axis A. Hereinafter, terms related to the axis, such as "axial direction", "axial end", and "radial direction", relate to the longitudinal axis A unless otherwise indicated.

[0049] The implant device 1, the housing 3, and / or the plunger 4 are preferably elongated and / or extend along the axis A. The implant device 1 and / or the housing 3 are preferably at least substantially pen-shaped.

[0050] The implant device 1 preferably has a hollow needle 5 and / or at least a connection device 6 for connecting the hollow needle 5 to the housing 3. Hereinafter, the hollow needle is simply abbreviated as "needle 5".

[0051] Preferably, the housing 3 includes the connection device 6 and / or the connection device 6 forms a section of the housing 3. The connection device 6 is particularly arranged at the axial end 3A of the housing 3.

[0052] At the opposite end of the needle 5 and / or the connection device 6, the housing 3 and / or the inner 3C preferably open.

[0053] The needle 5 is preferably designed to receive the implant 2. The implantation device 1 and / or the needle 5 can include or be capable of including the implant 2. In particular, the implant 2 can be received by or is receivable in the needle 5.

[0054] Preferably, the needle 5 is configured as a subcutaneous needle. The needle 5 preferably has a bevel 5A.

[0055] The needle 5 is preferably coated, for example, with a silicone coating. This coating preferably reduces the force required to inject the needle 5 into the tissue.

[0056] The implantation device 1 and / or the needle 5 preferably includes a connection device 5B, particularly when the needle 5 is not fixedly connected to the housing 3 and / or when the implantation device 1 and / or the housing 3 includes a connection device 6. The connection device 5B of the needle 5 is preferably complementary to the connection device 6 of the implantation device 1 and / or the housing 3.

[0057] The connection device 6 is preferably designed as a luer lock fitting, particularly a male luer lock fitting. In this case, the connection device 5B of the needle 5 is preferably designed as a complementary luer lock fitting, particularly a female luer lock fitting.

[0058] The needle 5 can be fixedly connected to the implantation device 1 and / or the housing 3, i.e., connected to the housing 3 so as not to be removable from the housing 3. However, it is preferred that the needle 5 can be removably connected to the implantation device 1 and / or the housing 3, particularly through the connection device 6 and / or the connection device 5B. Thereby, the needle 5 can be replaced and / or different needles can be used in combination with the implantation device 1 and / or connected to the housing 3.

[0059] In use, the needle 5 is preferably connected to the housing 3 and / or the connection device 6. However, it is not essential for the implantation device 1 to include the needle 5 in the delivery state. Similarly, it is also possible for the implantation device 1 to include only the connection device 6 in the delivery state so that different needles 5 can be connected to the housing 3 and / or the connection device 6.

[0060] The needle 5 is preferably welded to the connection device 5B, particularly by a laser welding process. Preferably, the needle 5 is formed integrally with the connection device 5B or the needle 5 and the connection device 5B form different parts of an integral component. This can particularly facilitate the coating process of the needle 5.

[0061] The implantation device 1, particularly the connection device 5B, preferably includes a contact area 5C for contacting tissue, particularly the eye, during insertion of the implant 2. The contact area 5C is preferably flat or without irregularities and / or preferably surrounds the needle 5. Preferably, the contact area 5C has an area of 2 0.2 cm or more, preferably 2 0.4 cm or more, more preferably 2 0.6 cm or more, particularly 2 0.8 cm or more, and / or 2 2 cm or less, more preferably 2 1.5 cm or less, particularly 2 1 cm or less.

[0062] The plunger 4 is axially movable relative to and / or within the housing 3, the connection device 6, and / or the needle 5. That is, the plunger 4 is particularly movable along the axis A. The plunger 4 is configured to push the implant 2 received in the needle 5 out of the needle 5 and / or insert the implant 2 into the tissue or the eye.

[0063] In particular, the implantation device 1 and / or the plunger 4 includes a pusher 7 for pushing the implant 2 out of the needle 5. The pusher 7 is preferably arranged along the axis A and / or is movable in the axial direction. The pusher 7 is at least partially arranged or can be arranged inside the housing 3. In particular, the pusher 7 is movable relative to the housing 3 and / or the needle 5.

[0064] The pusher 7 is preferably functionally coupled to the plunger 4 and is in particular movable by the plunger 4 towards the needle 5 and / or the implant 2. Particularly preferably, the pusher 7 is fixedly connected to the plunger 4 or forms part of it. The pusher is in particular arranged or fixed at the axial end of the plunger 4.

[0065] In particular, by moving the plunger 4 towards the housing 3, the pusher 7 is inserted into the needle 5 and / or advanced within the needle 5. Further, the pusher 7 acts on the implant 2 and, by moving towards the axial end, pushes the implant 2 out of the needle 5 and / or inserts or injects the implant 2 into the tissue, in particular into the eye.

[0066] The pusher 7 is preferably elongated and / or designed as a wire or rod. The pusher 7 is preferably made of metal, for example steel or stainless steel.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the implantation device 1 has an actuator 8 for actuating itself. Preferably, the actuator 8 is functionally coupled to the plunger 4 and / or is configured to act directly on the plunger 4 or to do so. In particular, the actuator 8 is configured to move the plunger 4 relative to the housing 3. Preferably, the implantation device 1 does not include a spring mechanism or gears for converting the movement of the actuator 8 into the movement of the plunger 4.

[0068] The implant device 1 is configured in particular such that the release of the implant 2 from the needle 5 and / or the insertion of the implant 2 into the tissue or the eye can be achieved by the actuation of the actuator 8. In particular, the implant device 1 is configured such that the actuation of the actuator 8 causes the movement of the plunger 4 towards the needle 5, and then the plunger 4 moves the pusher 7 relative to the needle 5 and acts on the implant 2, thereby pushing the implant 2 out of the needle 5.

[0069] Preferably, the actuator 8 comprises or is made of plastic. The actuator 8 preferably has at least partial flexibility and / or elasticity. It is preferred to injection-mold the actuator 8, although other methods for manufacturing the actuator 8, such as 3D printing, are also conceivable.

[0070] The actuator 8 preferably has or forms a lever mechanism 9. In other words, the actuator 8 preferably has or forms at least one or preferably more than one lever, in particular functionally connected levers and / or cooperating levers.

[0071] The actuator 8 preferably has at least one arm 10, 11. Particularly preferably, the actuator 8 has at least two or exactly two arms 10, 11. Hereinafter, the arms 10, 11 of the actuator 8 will be designated as the "first arm 10" and the "second arm 11".

[0072] The designations "first arm" and "second arm" do not imply an order or sequence of the arms 10, 11. Furthermore, the term "first arm" does not necessarily imply the presence of a second fixing device. Similarly, the term "second arm" does not necessarily imply the presence of two arms. In particular, the actuator 8 can even comprise only one arm, in particular only the second arm 11, without having the first arm 10. The arms 10, 11 can form or implement different levers of the lever mechanism 9.

[0073] The actuator 8 preferably has a connection section 13. The connection section 13 can be connected to or can be connectable to the housing 3, in particular by means of gluing, screwing, or a latching mechanism or the like.

[0074] Preferably, each of the arms 10, 11 forms one or more levers of the lever mechanism 9.

[0075] The first and second arms 10, 11 are preferably integrally formed and / or designed as a one-piece. The first arm 10 and the connection section 13 are preferably integrally formed and / or designed as a one-piece. In other words, the actuator 8 is preferably a one-piece component including the first arm 10 and the second arm 11, and preferably also including the connection section 13.

[0076] The second arm 11 is preferably arranged between the first arm 10 and the plunger 4. Particularly preferably, the second arm 11 provides a functional coupling from the actuator 8 to the plunger 4, in particular a functional coupling between the first arm 10 and the plunger 4.

[0077] The second arm 11 is preferably configured and / or arranged to act directly on the plunger 4 such that the plunger 4 is moved when the actuator 8 is actuated. In particular, the second arm 11 is configured and / or arranged to move the plunger 4 axially and / or towards the needle 5 and / or the connection device 6.

[0078] The second arm 11 can be angled, or in other words, can have two different parts arranged at an angle to each other. In other words, the second arm 11 is preferably not realized as a straight arm.

[0079] The second arm 11 preferably extends through the housing 3. In particular, the housing 3 includes an opening 3B, in particular a through-hole, through which the second arm 11 extends or in which the second arm 11 is disposed. The opening 3B is preferably disposed on the side surface of the housing 3.

[0080] The second arm 11 is preferably connected to the first arm 10, particularly at its first end 11A. The second arm 11 or its first end 11A is preferably connected to the first arm 10 by a joint 12. The joint 12 is particularly configured as a film hinge. In particular, the film hinge is a thin section of the actuator 8 that can pivotally rotate around the second arm 11.

[0081] The first arm 10 of the actuator 8 preferably has a fixed end 10A and a free end 10B.

[0082] The fixed end 10A is preferably connected to the housing 3 and / or the connection section 13, particularly by a joint 14 configured preferably as a film hinge. In particular, the first arm 10 is pivotally rotatable around the fixed end 10A and / or the joint 14.

[0083] The second arm 11 is preferably connected to the first arm 10 between the fixed end 10A and the free end 10B. The joint 12 is preferably disposed between the fixed end 10A and the free end 10B of the first arm 10.

[0084] The first arm 10 preferably has a first section 10C and a second section 10D. The first section 10C is preferably the section between the fixed end 10A or the joint 14 and the position where the second arm 11 is connected to the first arm 10, particularly the joint 12. The second section 10D is preferably the section between the free end 10B and the position where the second arm 11 is connected to the first arm 10, particularly the joint 12.

[0085] The second section 10D is, in particular, the actuating section of the actuator 8. That is, in particular, the second section 10D or the actuating section is the section of the actuator 8 that is to be actuated or actuated by the user.

[0086] The first arm 10 is preferably inclined with respect to the housing 3 and / or the axis A and / or projects from the housing 3. In embodiments not shown in the figures, in particular in the delivery state of the implantation device 1 and / or to save space, the first arm 10 can be configured and / or arranged to be parallel to the housing 3.

[0087] Figure 3 shows a very schematic representation of the lever mechanism 9, in particular realized or formed by the actuator 8.

[0088] In a preferred embodiment, the lever mechanism 9 is or includes a toggle joint 15. In particular, the actuator 8 has or forms a toggle joint 15.

[0089] In the context of the disclosure of the present invention, a "toggle joint" preferably refers to a mechanism, particularly a mechanical connection, that includes or is composed of two bars, i.e., a first bar and a second bar, which are joined to each other by the joint. This mechanism is very schematically shown in FIG. 3 showing the lever mechanism 9. The toggle joint 15 includes a first bar 15A and a second bar 15B. The bars 15A, 15B are joined to each other by a joint 15C, particularly located at their ends. The first bar 15A is fixed at a pivot point 15D and can be pivotally rotated around the pivot point 15D. The second arm 15B can be pivotally rotated around the joint 15C. The opposite end of the second bar 15B from the joint 15C is movable along a straight line as shown in FIG. 3. When a force acts on the first bar 15A, the first bar 15A pivotally rotates around the pivot point 15D, thereby causing the second bar 15B to also pivotally rotate around the joint 15C with respect to the first bar 15A. At the same time, the opposite end of the second bar 15B from the joint 15C moves along a straight line, particularly to the left in FIG. 3. This movement is shown by an arrow and a dashed line in FIG. 3.

[0090] The first and second bars 15, 15B of the toggle joint 15 preferably each form a lever of the lever mechanism 9.

[0091] In the actuator 8, it is preferable that the first section 10C of the first arm 10 realizes or represents the first bar 15A of the toggle joint 15, the second arm 11 realizes or represents the second bar 15B of the toggle joint 15, the joint 14 realizes or represents the pivot point 15D of the toggle joint 15, and the joint 12 realizes or represents the joint 15C of the toggle joint 15.

[0092] In other words, preferably, the first section 10C of the first arm 10 forms the first bar 15A of the toggle joint 15, and the second arm 11 forms the second bar 15B of the toggle joint 15.

[0093] In another preferred embodiment, the lever mechanism 9 is or includes the secondary lever 16. In particular, the actuator 8 has or forms the secondary lever 16.

[0094] In the sense of the disclosure of the present invention, a "secondary lever" is, in particular, a lever in which a resistance or load is positioned between the effort point and the fulcrum. The secondary lever 16 having a fulcrum 16A is particularly shown in FIG. 3. The fulcrum 16A is positioned at the fixed end of the secondary lever. In particular, the fulcrum 16A is formed by and / or is identical to the fulcrum 15D of the toggle joint 15. The resistance or load is particularly formed by the second bar 15B of the toggle joint 15.

[0095] The secondary lever 16 preferably forms the lever of the lever mechanism 9.

[0096] The first arm 10 of the actuator 8 preferably realizes or forms the secondary lever 16. That is, preferably, the force of the user that actuates the actuator 8 within the second section 10D represents the effort point, and the resistance force of the second arm 11 acting on the first arm represents the resistance or load of the secondary lever 16.

[0097] In the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, the lever mechanism 9 includes both the toggle joint 15 and the secondary lever 16. In particular, the actuator 8 includes or forms both the toggle joint 15 and the secondary lever 16. In this specification, the first arm 10 preferably forms the secondary lever 16, and at the same time the first section 10A forms the first bar 15A of the toggle joint 15, and the second arm 11 forms the second bar 15B of the toggle joint 15. Further, the solid hinge 12 preferably forms the joint 15C of the toggle joint 15, and the joint 14 preferably forms the fulcrums 15D, 16A of the toggle joint 15 and / or the secondary lever 16.

[0098] In the following, the operation and / or movement sequence of the implantation device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described in particular in relation to FIGS. 4, 5, and 6. FIG. 4 shows the implantation device 1 in an initial, non-activated position. FIG. 5 shows the implantation device 1 during operation and / or in an intermediate position. Finally, FIG. 6 shows the implantation device 1 in a final position and / or after the operation and / or release of the implant 2.

[0099] In the initial position, the actuator 8, in particular the first arm 10, preferably protrudes from the housing 3 and / or is inclined with respect to the housing 3. The second end 11B of the second arm 11 preferably contacts the plunger 4. In particular, the second end 11B abuts against the stop 17 of the plunger 4.

[0100] The stop 17 is preferably formed by a section of the plunger 4 that extends transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the longitudinal axis A, in particular to the notch.

[0101] In FIG. 5, the actuator 8 and / or the implantation device 1 is in an intermediate position in which the actuator 8 is (partially) activated, in particular by pressing on the first arm 10, in particular its second section 13D. By the activation, the first arm 10 is being moved towards or pushed down towards the housing 3. The force exerted on the first arm 10 during activation is transmitted via the joint 12 and / or the second arm 11 to the plunger 4 by the second arm 11 abutting against the stop 17, in particular causing a movement of the plunger 4 towards the needle 5. The movement of the plunger 4 causes the pusher 7 to move and further to push the implant 2 received in the needle 5.

[0102] In FIG. 6, the actuator 8 is fully activated and / or pressed. That is, the plunger 4 has been further moved, in particular to the final position. In the final position, the plunger 4 preferably abuts against the stop 18 of the housing 3. Further, in the final position, the implant 2 is preferably being pushed out of the needle 5 by the pusher 7.

[0103] The actuator 8 preferably has a coupling device 20 for coupling itself to the plunger 4. Preferably, the plunger 4 has a coupling device 21 corresponding to or complementary to the coupling device 20 of the actuator 8.

[0104] The coupling device 20 of the actuator 8 and the coupling device 21 of the plunger 4 preferably form different parts of a coupling mechanism for coupling the actuator 8 to the plunger 4.

[0105] The coupling mechanism and / or the coupling devices 20, 21 are preferably configured to fix or lock the actuator 8 and / or the plunger 4 in the final position and / or after insertion of the implant 2, in particular by means of a latch.

[0106] Preferably, the coupling device 20 of the actuator 8 is arranged on the second arm 11 and / or the second arm 11 comprises the coupling device 20. In particular, the coupling device 20 is arranged laterally on the second arm 11.

[0107] Particularly preferably, the coupling devices 20, 21 of the actuator 8 and the plunger 4 are configured as or form a latching mechanism. In particular, the coupling device 20 of the actuator 8 has or is formed by one or more latch cams, and the coupling device 21 of the plunger 4 has or is formed by one or more corresponding or complementary notches, or vice versa.

[0108] The actuator 8 is preferably configured to snap onto the plunger 4 when the plunger 4 reaches or has reached the final position. The snap-on preferably generates a tactile, visual, and / or audible signal, in particular a click or the like.

[0109] Particularly preferably, the snap fastener and / or the tactile, visual, and / or audible signals are generated by the coupling of the actuator 8 to the plunger 4 by means of the coupling mechanism, in particular by the latching of the coupling device 21 or the coupling device 20 or the latch cam into the notch.

[0110] In particular, for the latching of the coupling device 21 or the coupling device 20 or the latch cam into the notch, a force threshold must first be exceeded. This force threshold particularly forms a tactile signal. Furthermore, when the force is greater than the force threshold, the coupling device 20 is preferably snap-fastened into the coupling device 21 by rapid movement. That is, the first arm 10 preferably executes a rapid movement when the coupling device 20 is latched to the coupling device 21. This rapid movement of the first arm 10 is preferably a tactile and / or visual signal.

[0111] Hereinafter, a further aspect of the implantation device 1, in particular of its first embodiment, will also be described in more detail here, with particular reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0112] In a preferred embodiment, which may also be realized independently, the needle 5 is particularly freely rotatable about the longitudinal axis A and / or with respect to the housing 3 and / or the actuator 8. In particular, the rotation angle or the rotational position between the needle 5, in particular its bevel 5A, and the actuator 8 and / or the housing 3 is adjustable, in particular freely adjustable. This can improve the ease of use of the implantation device 1 for the user and / or assist in the accurate and / or comfortable insertion of the implant 2 into the tissue or the eye.

[0113] In particular, the connection device 6 can be made particularly freely rotatable about the longitudinal axis A and / or the housing 3.

[0114] In particular, "capable of freely rotating" in the sense of the disclosure of the present invention means that the freely rotatable part, in particular the needle 5 and / or the connection device 6, can rotate continuously around the axis A, and / or can be arranged at any desired rotational position or rotational angle. In particular, this free rotation is in contrast to stepwise rotation in which the rotatable part can only be arranged at defined and / or individual rotational positions or rotational angles.

[0115] The implantation device 1 preferably includes a grip 19. The grip 19 is preferably arranged at the axial end of the housing 3, in particular at the axial end 3A including the connection device 6 and / or the needle 5.

[0116] The grip 19 preferably has an annular shape. Preferably, the grip 19 is (freely) rotatable relative to the housing 3 and / or the actuator 8 and / or around the axis A. In particular, the grip 19 is preferably rotationally coupled to one or both of the needle 5 and / or the connection device 5B, 6 such that the grip 19 is fixed in the rotational direction relative to the needle 5 and / or the connection device 5B, 6 and / or such that the needle 5 rotates with the grip 19. In particular, this facilitates the rotation of the needle 5 and reduces the risk of breakage or injury during rotation of the needle 5.

[0117] The grip 19 preferably has a diameter and / or cross-section larger than that of the housing 3 and / or at least partially surrounds the housing 3. That is, the grip 19 preferably functions as a device against which the user can place one or more fingers when operating or using the implantation device 1. This function enables the comfortable use and / or operation of the implantation device 1 and helps with the accurate insertion and / or injection of the implant 2.

[0118] Preferably, the grip 19 and / or the housing 3 are configured such that there is friction between the grip 19 and the housing 3 when the grip 19 is rotated. In other words, the rotation of the grip 19 relative to the housing 3 and / or about the axis A is preferably inhibited by friction. Particularly preferably, the amount of friction between the grip 19 and the housing 3 is selected and / or adjusted such that, on the one hand, the grip 19 can be rotated freely and easily, and on the other hand, it remains securely in the selected or desired rotational position unless the grip 19 is actively rotated by the user. This leads to an easy and accurate adjustment of the desired rotational angle or rotational position of the needle 5 and / or the bevel 5A.

[0119] The implantation device 1 preferably has a cap 22 configured to cover and / or protect the needle 5. The cap 22 is preferably connectable to the connection device 5B of the needle 5, the housing 3, the connection device 6, and / or the grip 19.

[0120] The cap 22 is shown specifically in FIG. 7.

[0121] The implantation device 1 and / or the cap 22 preferably include an implant lock 23. In particular, the implant lock 23 is configured to hold the implant 2 inside the needle 5 and / or prevent the implant 2 from falling out of the needle 5.

[0122] The implant lock 23 is fixedly connected, in particular, to the cap 22. This enables the cap 22 and the implant lock 23 to be removed together from the needle 5 and / or in a single step, i.e., the preparation of the implantation device 1 before inserting the implant 2 is facilitated and / or expedited. The cap 22 and the implant lock 23 can be formed as a one-piece component, in particular, by injection molding the cap 22 and the implant lock 23. However, in this case, other methods are also possible. For example, the implant lock 23 can be adhesively attached or welded to the cap 22 or fixedly connected to the cap 22 by any other method.

[0123] The implant lock 23 is preferably insertable into the needle 5. However, alternatively or in addition to this, the implant lock 23 can be configured as a sleeve or the like for receiving the needle 5 and / or for pushing on the needle 5.

[0124] The implantation device 1, the needle 5, and / or the connection device 5B preferably have a holding device 33 for holding the implant 2 received in the needle 5 in a fixed position.

[0125] Figures 7 to 10 illustrate some embodiments of the holding device 33. Unless explicitly stated otherwise or not apparent from the context, the description of one of the embodiments of Figures 7 to 10 is also relevant to the other embodiments.

[0126] An exemplary embodiment of the holding device 33 is shown in particular in the enlarged detailed view of Figure 7.

[0127] The holding device 33 is preferably configured to contact the implant 2 and / or to exert a force or pressure on the implant 2, particularly in a transverse or perpendicular direction with respect to the axis A. With this configuration, preferably, the implant 2 is pressed against and / or held in place on the inner wall of the needle 5, particularly after removing the cap 22 and / or the implant lock 23 and / or before injecting the implant 2 into the tissue, and / or is prevented from falling out of the needle 5.

[0128] Preferably, the holding device 33 is at least partially or completely disposed inside the needle 5. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the holding device 33 is fixed to the inner wall of the needle 5 and particularly protrudes therefrom. In particular, the holding device 33 is inclined with respect to the needle 5 and / or the axis A. Preferably, the holding device 33 is disposed between the implant 2 and the wall of the needle 5.

[0129] The holding device 33 is preferably designed as an elastic element, particularly a spring, and particularly preferably as a leaf spring or a cantilever spring.

[0130] The holding device 33 or the spring is preferably bent, compressed, and / or stretched when holding the implant 2.

[0131] Preferably, the holding device 33 is releasable or removable from the implant 2, particularly automatically and / or before injecting the implant 2 or before pushing the implant 2 out of the needle 5.

[0132] Particularly preferably, the implant device 1 is configured to automatically release the implant 2 from the holding device 33 when the plunger 4 is moved towards the needle 5 and / or the implant 2.

[0133] For example, the holding device 33 can be configured and / or arranged to be released and / or separated from the implant 2, at least indirectly, by the plunger 4 and / or the pusher 7 or by one or more additional parts between the holding device 33 and the plunger 4 and / or the pusher 7.

[0134] In the example shown in FIG. 7, the holding device 33 is fixed to the needle 5 at a position between the implant 2 and the pusher 7 and / or the plunger 4. That is, when the plunger 4 is moved towards the needle 5 and / or the implant 2, the pusher 7 preferably first comes into contact with the holding device 33 or the spring, thereby pushing the holding device 33 or the spring outwards and / or away from the implant 2 and / or the axis A. Thereby, the holding device 3 is removed from the implant 2 and / or the implant 2 is released. Next, when the plunger 4 moves further towards the implant 2, the pusher 7 preferably comes into contact with the implant 2 and in particular finally pushes the implant 2 out of the needle 5.

[0135] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the implantation device 1 and / or the connection device 5B preferably includes a holder 34. The holder 34 is adapted to hold or be adapted to hold the holding device 33.

[0136] The holder 34 is preferably disposed inside the implantation device 1 and / or the housing 3, particularly inside the connection device 5B and / or the interior 3C. The holding device 33 and / or the holder 34 are preferably movable relative to the needle 5 and / or the implant 2 not shown in FIG. 8. In particular, the holding device 33 and / or the holder 34 are movable along the axis A.

[0137] Preferably, the holder 34 surrounds the needle 5 and / or is at least substantially cylindrical in shape.

[0138] The holding device 33 is preferably fixed to the holder 34 and / or movable with the holder 34.

[0139] The holding device 33 preferably includes a holding section 33A. The holding section 33A of the holding device 33 is preferably configured to press the implant 2 and / or hold the implant 2 in a fixed position within the needle 5.

[0140] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the holding device 33 is preferably designed as or formed by a particularly curved or bent wire. In particular, the holding section 33A is curved or bent. Preferably, the holding section 33A has at least a substantially U-shaped or V-shaped configuration. The holding section 33A preferably includes two legs angled with respect to each other, and the angle between the legs is preferably 30° or greater, more preferably 40° or greater, particularly 50° or greater, and particularly preferably 60° or greater.

[0141] Furthermore, the holding device 33 preferably includes a connection section 33B for connecting itself to the holder 34. The connection section 33B is preferably arranged at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis A and / or fixed to the holder 34.

[0142] The holding section 33A and the connection section 33B preferably extend in a common plane. The holding section 33A preferably protrudes from the connection section 33B and / or is bent with respect to the connection section 33B. The angle between the holding section 33A and the connection section 33B is preferably at least 90°, preferably at least 95°, or at least 100°.

[0143] The needle 5 preferably includes an opening 5D arranged laterally, in particular in the needle 5. The opening 5D preferably enables the holding device 33 to extend at least partially into the needle 5 and / or to contact the implant 2, in particular to exert pressure on the implant 2.

[0144] The implant 2 is preferably held in place by a particularly radial pressure or force exerted on the implant 2 by the holding device 33, in particular the holding section 33A. The holding section 33A is preferably arranged or can be arranged in the opening 5D.

[0145] The implantation device 1 preferably includes an indicator 35 for indicating the status and / or position of the holding device 33 and / or the implant 2. In particular, the indicator 35 is configured to indicate whether the implant 2 is (still) immobile or held in place by the holding device 33. The indicator 35 is preferably an optical indicator.

[0146] For example, the indicator 35 can have a specific color or several different colors for indicating the status of the implant 2, and / or the indicator 35 can indicate the status of the implant 2 and / or the holding device 33 by means of numbers, figures, symbols, or words, etc.

[0147] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the implantation device 1, the housing 3, or the connection device 5B preferably includes at least one or two or more openings 36. The opening 36 can be designed as a through-hole passing through the connection device 5B or the housing 3 having or formed by a window, etc. Preferably, the indicator 35 and / or the holder 34 are visible through the opening 36 or the window.

[0148] The presence of several openings 36 enables, in particular, the indicator 35 to be seen or read in any rotational position of the handle 5 and / or the holder 34.

[0149] Preferably, the holder 34 includes an indicator 35.

[0150] The plunger 4 is preferably configured to move the holder 34 and / or the holding device 33. When the implantation device 1 is actuated or the plunger 4 is moved, a portion of the plunger 4 that is preferably in operative connection with the holder 34 contacts the holder 34, whereby the movement of the plunger 4 results in a movement of the holder 34 along the axis A and / or towards the end of the needle 5 (i.e., to the left as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 8). This movement of the holder 34 preferably also moves the holding device 33 relative to the needle 5, whereby the holding device 33, in particular the holding section 33A or its legs, slides along the edge of the opening 5D and / or is lifted from the implant 2 and the holding device 33, or the holding section 33A is carried out of the needle 5, whereby the implant 2 is released from the holding device 33 and / or is no longer in a stationary state by the holding device 33. Thereafter, the plunger 4 or the pusher 7 preferably pushes the implant 2 out of the needle 5.

[0151] The movement of the holder 34 is preferably visible to the user through the opening 36. During and / or after the movement of the holder 34, preferably different sections of the holder 34 and / or the indicator 35 become visible or are visible through the opening 36. This is in particular an indication to the user that the implant 2 is (still) held by the holding device 33 or is in a stationary state, or that it is no longer held or is not in a stationary state by the holding device 33. For example, the indicator 35 can have different colors and / or symbols, whereby different colors / symbols become visible during the movement of the plunger 4 and / or the holder 34, in which case these different colors or symbols and / or their changes indicate the status to the user.

[0152] FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate yet another embodiment of the holding device 33.

[0153] In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the holding device 33 is preferably in a fixed position along the axis A and / or relative to the needle 5. In other words, the holding device 33 is preferably not movable (in the axial direction) relative to the needle 5. In particular, the holding device 33 is connected to the needle 5 at least axially fixed or immovable.

[0154] The implantation device 1 preferably includes a release device 37 for releasing the holding device 33. The release device 37 is preferably at least partially arranged in the housing 3 or its interior 3C and / or in the connection device 5B.

[0155] The release device 37 is preferably movable within the housing 3, the connection device 5B and / or the interior 3C and / or relative to the needle 5 and / or the holding device 33. In particular, the release device 37 is movable along the axis A.

[0156] The release device 37 preferably includes an indicator 35. The indicator 35 of the release device 37 is preferably designed as the indicator 35 of the holder 34 described above with respect to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8.

[0157] In particular, the release device 37 is configured to release the holding device 33 from the implant 2 by relative movement between the holding device 33 and the release device 37 and / or by lifting or pulling away the holding device 33 from the needle 5 and / or the implant 2.

[0158] The release device 37 preferably has a contact area 37A for contacting the holding device 33 or a section thereof, in particular the contact section 33C. The contact area 37 is preferably arranged at the axial end of the release device 37 and / or is inclined relative to the needle 5 and / or the axis A. In particular, the contact area 37 is at least substantially conical in shape or a similar shape.

[0159] The holding device 33 preferably includes a contact section 33C configured such that in particular the contact area 37A of the release device 37 comes into contact. The contact section 33C is preferably arranged in a transverse direction with respect to the needle 5 and / or the axis A, in particular perpendicularly and / or radially. In particular, the contact section 33C is arranged at the end of the holding device 33 and / or forms an end section of the holding device 33.

[0160] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the holding device 33 preferably further includes a holding section 33A. The holding section 33A is preferably designed as described above as the holding section 33A of the holding device 33 according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8. That is, the above description regarding the holding section 33A also applies to the holding section 33A of the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10.

[0161] Furthermore, the holding device 33 preferably includes a connection section 33B. Preferably, the holding device 33 or the connection section 33B is connected to the needle 5 in particular such that the holding device 33 comes to a fixed axial position with respect to the needle 5. Preferably, the connection section 33B preferably includes two straight sections angled with respect to each other or formed thereby.

[0162] The holding section 33A is preferably arranged between the contact section 33C and the connection section 33B.

[0163] The contact section 33C preferably extends in a transverse direction, in particular perpendicularly, with respect to the holding section 33A and / or with respect to the connection section 33B and / or with respect to the plane in which the holding section 33A and the connection section 33B extend.

[0164] The release device 37 preferably includes a recess 37B for receiving the holding device 33, in particular the connection section 33B and / or the holding section 33A. The recess 37B is preferably a slot or notch in the release device 37. Preferably, the recess 37B extends parallel to the axis A.

[0165] The plunger 4 is preferably configured to move the release device 37, in particular relative to the holding device 33 and / or the needle 5. When the implantation device 1 is actuated and / or the plunger 4 is moved, the plunger 4 or a part in operative connection therewith preferably contacts the release device 37, whereby the movement of the plunger 4 results in a movement of the release device 37 along the axis A and / or towards the needle 5 (i.e., to the left as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 9). This movement of the release device 37 causes the contact area 37A to contact the holding device 33, in particular the contact section 33C. During further movement of the plunger 4 and / or the release device 37, the contact section 33C slides along the moving contact area 37A, as a result of which the holding section 33A and the contact section 33C are lifted and / or separated from the needle 5 and / or the implant 2. That is, the implant 2 is released from the holding device 33 or the holding section 33A.

[0166] The release device 37 preferably includes a spring section 37C. The spring section 37C is preferably integrally formed with or formed in one piece with the release device 37.

[0167] The release device 37 and / or the spring section 37C are preferably formed from a flexible and / or elastic material, in particular plastic.

[0168] Spring section 37C is particularly preferably compressible along axis A. This compression can particularly shorten the overall length or effective length of the release device 37, particularly in the axial direction and / or along axis A. This enables, in particular, first moving the release device 37 relative to the holding device 33 so that the implant 2 is released using the plunger 4, and then pushing the implant 2 out of the needle 5 by means of the pusher 7.

[0169] Spring section 37C preferably comprises or is formed by a preferably at least substantially hollow cylindrical framework having a plurality of openings or through-holes 37D. The spring section 37C or the framework preferably extends along and / or surrounds axis A.

[0170] Due to the plurality of openings or through-holes 37D, the spring section 37C or the framework is preferably compressible.

[0171] In particular, when the plunger 4 is moved towards the release device 37, the holding device 33 is particularly lifted from the implant 2 as described above. Next, the release device 37 preferably contacts the wall of the interior 3C, thereby preventing further movement. At this point, when the plunger 4 is further moved towards the release device 37, the spring section 37C preferably compresses, i.e., allows further movement of the plunger 4. Next, the pusher 7 will contact the implant 2 and finally push the implant 2 out of the needle 5.

[0172] Instead of or in addition to the holding device 33, the implant 2 can be held within and / or in position in the needle 5, in particular by an adhesive fluid, paste, or ointment. For example, the implant 2 can be held within and / or in position in the needle 5 by petrolatum / yellow petrolatum.

[0173] Preferably, the implant device 1 is configured such that the plunger 4 must exceed a force threshold to move from the initial position and / or towards the needle 5 and / or the connection device 6. In particular, preferably, in order to provide a force threshold, the plunger 4 is latched in the initial position.

[0174] That is, the implant device 1 preferably includes a latching mechanism 26 for latching the plunger 4 in the initial position and / or the final position. Preferably, the latching mechanism 26 is configured to latch the plunger 4 in both the initial position and the final position.

[0175] The latching mechanism 26 preferably has one or more notches 16A and, in particular, one or more cams 26B corresponding to or complementary to the notch 26A. Preferably, the plunger 4 includes one or more notches 26A, and the housing 3 and / or the actuator 8 includes one or more cams 26B or vice versa. One or more cams 26B preferably project from the wall 3D of the housing 3 and / or from the interior 3C.

[0176] Preferably, the latching mechanism 26 includes a cam 26B corresponding to or complementary to a notch 26A configured to latch the plunger 3 in the initial position. Alternatively or in addition, the latching mechanism 26 preferably includes a cam 26B corresponding to or complementary to a notch 26A configured to latch the plunger 3 in the final position.

[0177] Particularly preferably, the latching mechanism 26 includes two notches 26A and two cams 26B, in which case the notches 26A and the cams 26B form two pairs, each including one of the notches 26A and one of the cams 26B. One of the pairs is preferably configured to latch the plunger 4 in the initial position, and the other pair is preferably configured to latch the plunger 4 in the final position.

[0178] The force threshold that must be exceeded to move the plunger 4 out of its initial position is caused, in particular, by the latching mechanism 26 and / or by the latching of the cam 26B to the plunger 4 at the initial position.

[0179] The actuator 8, in particular the connection section 13, preferably has one or more protrusions 13A. The protrusions 13A are preferably configured to specifically connect and fix the actuator 8, in particular the connection section 13, to the housing 3. The protrusions 13A are preferably arranged or can be arranged in a through-hole 3E of the housing 3 that is configured to extend through the wall 3D and / or receive the protrusions 13A and / or fix the actuator 8, in particular the connection section 13, to the housing 3. The protrusions 13A are in particular designed as bolts extending from the connection section 13.

[0180] In particular, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 6, preferably each of the one or more cams 26B is formed by a protrusion 13A of the actuator 8, in particular the connection section 13.

[0181] That is, the protrusion 13A preferably has a dual function of, on the one hand, fixing the actuator 8 to the housing 3 and, on the other hand, forming part of the latching mechanism 26, in particular the cam 26B, for latching the plunger 4 in the initial position. In this way, a simple configuration of the implant device 1 is achieved and the number of parts is reduced.

[0182] However, it is not essential for the actuator 8 to include or form the cam 26B and / or for the protrusion 13A forming the cam 26B of the latching mechanism 26 to include or form the actuator 8. For example, the protrusion 13A can be a protrusion 13A of the wall 3D itself.

[0183] The implant device 1 preferably includes an air passage 27. The air passage 27 is arranged in particular between the plunger 4 and the housing 3, in particular the inner wall 3D. The air passage 27 is preferably configured to allow the passage of air between the plunger 4 and the housing 3, in particular the inner wall 3D, and / or to allow air to flow out of the implant device 1 or the housing 3. The air passage preferably extends at least parallel to and / or along the axis A. In particular, the air passage 27 is configured to avoid an increase in pressure inside the implant device 1, in particular inside and / or within the housing 3, when the plunger 4 is moved towards the axial end 3A of the housing, the needle 5, and / or the connection device 6.

[0184] The air passage 27 is in particular formed by a distance and / or free space (radially) surrounding the plunger 4, in particular between the plunger 4 and the inner wall 3D of the housing 3. That is, the air passage 27 is preferably at least substantially annular.

[0185] The implant device 1, in particular the plunger 4, and / or the housing 3 are arranged and / or configured such that the movement of the plunger 4 relative to the housing 3 is inhibited by friction. This can be achieved in various ways.

[0186] For example, in a first embodiment, the protrusion 13A of the actuator 8 or the connection section 13 can be configured to contact the plunger 4 during the movement of the plunger 4 from the initial position to the final position, thereby generating friction. However, in this case, other methods are also possible. For example, it is considered that the plunger 4 and / or the housing 3, in particular the inner wall 3D, can include one or more protrusions instead of or in addition to the protrusion 13A of the actuator 8 or the connection section 13.

[0187] The implant device 1 preferably includes a blocking device 38 for preventing or blocking accidental actuation of itself and / or the actuator 8, in particular the pressing of the actuator 8 and / or the first arm 10.

[0188] The blocking device 38 is preferably configured to prevent the movement of the pusher 7 and / or the plunger 4 towards the needle 5 and / or the implant 2, in addition to preventing the actuation of the actuator 8 in particular.

[0189] Preferably, the blocking device 38 can be or is arranged at least partially inside, within the interior 3C of, the implantation device 1 and / or the housing 3, and / or between the plunger 4 and the connection device 5B, particularly in the axial direction. Further, the blocking device 38 is preferably removable from the implantation device 1, the housing 3, and / or the interior 3C. The implantation device 1 and / or the housing 3 preferably include an opening in which the blocking device 28 can be at least partially arranged or arranged.

[0190] The blocking device 38 is preferably arranged or can be arranged between the actuator 8, particularly the first arm 10, and the housing 3 and / or the connection device 5B such that the actuation or pressing of the actuator 8 and / or the first arm 10 is prevented or blocked by the blocking device 38.

[0191] The blocking device 38 is preferably connectable to the connection device 5B, for example, by a connecting connection and / or a press fit. This facilitates the assembly of the implantation device, as will be described in more detail below.

[0192] The connection between the blocking device 38 and the connection device 5B is preferably releasable without particularly damaging or breaking the blocking device 38 and the connection device 5B.

[0193] Preferably, the blocking device 38 has a recess 39. The recess 39 is preferably configured to receive and / or surround the pusher 7 and / or the needle 5.

[0194] In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12 in which the implantation device 1 includes the blocking device 38, the pusher 7 and the plunger 4 are preferably separate components. In particular, the pusher 7 and the plunger 4 can be connected to each other by coupling. For this purpose, the pusher 7 and the plunger 4 preferably have corresponding coupling sections 40A, 40B.

[0195] Preferably, the pusher 7 includes or forms the coupling section 40A, and the plunger 4 includes or forms the coupling section 40B. These coupling sections preferably form the male and female parts of the coupling connection. Particularly preferably, the coupling section 40A forms the male part of the coupling connection, and the coupling section 40B forms the female part. However, in this case, other methods are also possible.

[0196] In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling section 40A of the pusher 7 is formed by at least a substantially conical portion. The conical portion preferably widens towards the side or end of the pusher 7 facing the implant 2 and / or is adapted to be received by or receive the needle 5. Preferably, the coupling section 40A preferably has a notch 40C that is in a transverse direction, particularly perpendicular, to the axis A and / or is configured to couple with the coupling section 40B of the plunger 4.

[0197] In particular, the coupling section 40A, the conical portion, and / or the notch 40C preferably have a cross-section larger than that of the recess 39 so that the coupling section 40A cannot enter the recess 39 and / or when the pusher 7 is received in the recess 39, the coupling section 40A, the conical portion, and / or the notch 40C contact or are blocked by the blocking device 38 and / or do not fit into the recess 39, thereby preventing the movement of the pusher 7 towards the recess 39.

[0198] The connecting section 40B is preferably configured to receive the connecting section 40A and / or is shaped complementary to the connecting section 40A. In particular, the connecting section 40B is conical in shape, preferably widening towards the pusher 7, and in particular is a complementary conical shape. Preferably, the connecting section 40B is preferably transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the axis A and / or has a notch 40D configured to connect to the connecting section 40A of the pusher 7, in particular the notch 40C.

[0199] The connecting sections 40A, 40B are preferably configured for a non - releasable or irreversible connection and / or cannot be separated from each other after connection.

[0200] One problem in the assembly of the implant device 1 is to connect all parts without damaging the implant 2 and / or other parts, and without accidentally moving the implant 2 inside the needle 5 or further pushing the implant 2 out of the needle 5. The combination of the implant device 1 having the blocking device 38 and the configuration of the pusher 7 and the plunger 4 as two separate parts that can be connected to each other particularly facilitates the assembly of the implant device 1.

[0201] The assembly of the implant device 1 having the blocking device 28 is preferably as follows.

[0202] The implant 2 is inserted into the needle 5. Before or after inserting the implant 2 into the needle 5, the cap 22 having the implant lock 23 can be connected to the needle 5 and / or the connection device 5B.

[0203] Next, the pusher 7 is preferably inserted into the needle 5. Before or after inserting the pusher 7 into the needle 5, in particular, so that the pusher 7 and / or the needle 5 is received or arranged within the recess 39, the blocking device 38 is connected to the connection device 5B and / or placed on the needle 5 and / or the pusher 7 and / or between the pusher 7, in particular the connecting section 40A and the connection device 5B.

[0204] Thereafter, the other parts of the implant device 1, in particular the housing 3, the plunger 4, and the actuator 8, are preferably connected to the assembly having the connection device 5B, the pusher 7, and the blocking device 38. In particular, this connection is made by pressing the plunger 4 towards the pusher 7 so that the connecting sections 40A, 40B are connected to each other, in particular by snap-fastening or the like, thereby connecting the plunger 4 to the pusher 7. Further, simultaneously with the connection of the pusher 7 and the plunger 4 to each other, the housing 3 and the connection device 5B are preferably connected to each other.

[0205] During assembly, the blocking part 38 preferably blocks or prevents the movement of the pusher 7 towards the implant 2 by the pusher 7 being received in the recess 39. In particular, the movement of the pusher 7 is prevented by the connecting section 40A, the conical part, and / or the notch 40C. That is, preferably, the blocking part 38 protects the implant 2 from contact, movement, and / or damage by the pusher 7 during assembly. This protection is particularly advantageous during the stage of connecting the plunger 4 to the pusher 7.

[0206] Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the implant device 1 will be described with particular reference to FIGS. 13 to 16.

[0207] Figures 13 to 16 illustrate a second embodiment of the implant device 1 according to the present invention. The main difference between the implant device 1 according to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 6 and the second embodiment shown in Figures 13 to 16 is that, in particular, the implant device 1 according to the second embodiment does not include the actuator 8. In other respects, the implant device 1 according to the second embodiment preferably has the same or at least most of the features of the implant device 1 according to the first embodiment, and vice versa. That is, unless otherwise explicitly stated or apparent from the context, the features described with respect to the first embodiment are also features of the second embodiment without being explicitly stated, and vice versa.

[0208] Figure 13 shows the implant device 1 according to the second invention in a perspective view. Figure 14 shows the implant device 1 according to the second embodiment in a side view. Figures 15 and 16 illustrate different cross-sections of the implant device 1 according to the second embodiment.

[0209] In the second embodiment, the plunger 4 is preferably movable by pushing the axial end 4A of the plunger 4, which is preferably arranged on the opposite side of the axial end of the plunger 4 facing or directed particularly towards the needle 5 and / or the connection device 6.

[0210] The axial end 4A preferably projects laterally from the plunger 4 and / or has a diameter and / or cross-section that is larger than other sections of the plunger 4 perpendicular to the axis A. Preferably, the axial end 4A includes and / or forms the actuating section of the plunger 4A and / or is configured to actuate and / or move the plunger 4.

[0211] That is, in the second embodiment, the implant device 1 is preferably operable or actuated and / or movable or moved by pushing the axial end 4A or the actuating section of the plunger 4.

[0212] The implant device 1 preferably has at least one fixing device 24, 25. Particularly preferably, the implant device 1 has at least two or exactly two fixing devices 24, 25. The fixing devices 24, 25 are hereinafter referred to as the "first fixing device 24" and the "second fixing device 25".

[0213] The designations "first fixing device 24" and "second fixing device 25" do not imply an order or sequence of the fixing devices 24, 25. Furthermore, the term "first fixing device" does not necessarily imply the presence of a second fixing device. Similarly, the term "second fixing device" does not necessarily imply the presence of two fixing devices or a first fixing device. That is, the implant device 1 may include only one of the first and second fixing devices 24, 25.

[0214] Although described herein with respect to a second embodiment, the implant device 1 according to the first embodiment may include a first fixing device 24 and / or a second fixing device 25.

[0215] The first fixing device 24 is preferably configured to prevent or impede the axial movement of the plunger 4 away from (i.e., to the right in FIGS. 15 and 16) the needle 5 and / or the connection device 6.

[0216] The first fixing device 24 is preferably designed as a clip or clamp or the like. Preferably, the first fixing device 24 is connected or connectable to the housing 3 and / or the plunger 4. Furthermore, the first fixing device 24 is preferably removable from the housing 3 and / or the implant device 1 without destroying or damaging itself.

[0217] The first fixing device 24 is preferably made of a flexible and / or elastic material, particularly plastic.

[0218] In particular, the first fixing device 24 is designed to be removable from the implant device 1, the housing 3, and / or the plunger 4 by pulling it radially away from the longitudinal axis A. In particular, the first fixing device 24 is flexible such that when it is pulled radially away from the longitudinal axis A, it deforms the first fixing device 24, in particular the first and / or second gripping sections 24A, 24B, thereby enabling it to be easily removed from the housing 3, the implant device 1, and / or the plunger 4.

[0219] The first fixing device 24 is configured to preferably at least partially surround or otherwise engage the housing 3 and / or the plunger 4.

[0220] The first fixing device 24 preferably has a first gripping section 24A. The first fixing device 24 and / or the first gripping section 24A are preferably designed to grip and / or at least partially surround the housing 3.

[0221] Furthermore, the first fixing device 24 preferably has a second gripping section 24B. The first fixing device 24 and / or the second gripping section 24B are preferably designed to grip and / or at least partially surround the plunger 4.

[0222] The first and / or second gripping sections 24A, 24B preferably have a C-shaped configuration.

[0223] The implant device 1 and / or the housing 3 preferably include a flange 28 disposed at an axial end of the housing 3, particularly on the opposite side of the axial end 3A. The flange 28 preferably projects laterally from the housing 3 and / or is disposed in a transverse direction with respect to the axis A, particularly perpendicular thereto.

[0224] The flange 28 preferably forms a stop for the first fixing device 24, in particular for the first gripping section 24A. In particular, the flange 28 is designed to prevent or inhibit the movement of the first fixing device 24, in particular the first gripping section 24A, away from the needle 5 and / or the connection device 6.

[0225] The plunger 4 preferably includes a stop device 29. The stop device 29 is configured in particular to prevent the movement of the plunger 4 away from the needle 5 and / or the connection device 6. In particular, the stop device 29 is designed to cooperate or be designed to cooperate with the first fixing device 24, in particular the second gripping section 24B.

[0226] The stop device 29 is preferably designed as a flexible arm. In particular, the stop device 29 or the arm includes a longitudinal section 29A extending in particular along the axis A and a transverse section 29B extending in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the axis A and / or the longitudinal section 29A. In particular, the transverse section 29B projects laterally from the plunger 4.

[0227] The stop device 29 or the transverse section 29B is configured in particular to abut against the first gripping device 24, in particular the second gripping section 24B.

[0228] In particular, the first fixing device 24, the flange 28 and the stop device 29 cooperate to prevent the movement of the plunger 4 away from the needle 5 and / or the connection device 6. In particular, the movement of the plunger 4 away from the needle 5 and / or the connection device 6 is prevented by the stop device 29, in particular its transverse section 29B, against the first fixing device 24, in particular the second gripping section 24B, while at the same time the gripping device 24 is held in position by the first gripping section 24A abutting against the flange 28.

[0229] In other words, when the fixing device 24 is arranged in and / or connected to the housing 3, during movement (such an attempt) to pull the plunger 4 away from the needle 5 and / or the connection device 6, the transverse section 29B abuts against the second gripping section 24B, and the first fixing device 24 is held in a fixed position by the first gripping section 24A that abuts against the flange 28, so that such pulling away cannot be performed due to the fact that the second gripping section 24B does not move.

[0230] Preferably, the stop device 29 has flexibility such that, in particular, the movement of the plunger 4 towards the needle 5 and / or the connection device 6 is allowed and / or not prevented or blocked by the stop device 29.

[0231] In particular, when the plunger 4 is moved from the initial position towards the needle 5 and / or the connection device 6, the stop device 29, in particular the transverse section 29B, comes into contact with the housing 3. Next, when the plunger 4 is further moved towards the needle 5 and / or the connection device 6, the stop device 29 preferably bends, turns, or moves inwards, so that the contact between the transverse section 29B and the housing 3 does not prevent or block the further movement of the plunger 4.

[0232] In particular, the housing 3 includes an inclined portion 31. The inclined portion 31 and / or the stop device 29, in particular the transverse section 29B, are configured such that the contact of the stop device 29 or the transverse section 29B leads to an inward movement of the stop device 29 along the inclined portion 31 and / or a sliding movement of the stop device 29 and / or the transverse section 29B.

[0233] The stop device 29, in particular the longitudinal section 29A, is preferably formed and / or allowed to move by a cut 32 in the plunger 4 that forms or defines the stop device 29 or the longitudinal section 29A.

[0234] The second fixing device 25 is preferably configured to prevent or impede the axial movement of the plunger 4 towards the needle 5 and / or the connecting device (i.e., towards the left in FIGS. 15 and 16).

[0235] The second fixing device 25 is preferably arranged or arrangeable between the axial end 4A of the plunger 4 and the housing 3, in particular the flange 28 and / or the first fixing device 24, in particular the second gripping section 24B.

[0236] The second fixing device 25 is preferably designed as a clip or clamp or the like. Preferably, the second fixing device 25 is connected or connectable to the plunger 4. Furthermore, the second fixing device 25 is preferably removable from the plunger 4 and / or the implantation device 1 without particularly damaging or breaking the second fixing device 25.

[0237] The second fixing device 25 is preferably made of a flexible and / or elastic material, in particular plastic.

[0238] The second fixing device 25 is preferably configured to at least partially surround the plunger 4 or be configured to at least partially surround the plunger 4.

[0239] The second fixing device 25 preferably has a gripping section 25A. The second fixing device 25 and / or the gripping section 25A are preferably designed to grip the plunger 4 and / or to at least partially surround the plunger 4.

[0240] The gripping section 25A preferably has a C-shaped configuration.

[0241] The second fixing device 25 preferably has a removal section 25B. The removal section 25B is preferably configured to be gripped or removed by the user, particularly for removing the second fixing device 25 from the implantation device 1 or the plunger 4, especially by pulling the second fixing device 25 radially away from the implantation device 1 or the plunger 4.

[0242] The removal section 25B is preferably designed as a sheet or plate and is particularly flat. Preferably, the removal section 25B is thickened at the opposite end of the gripping section 25A.

[0243] In the second embodiment, the above-mentioned friction between the plunger 4 and the housing 3 or the inner wall 3D is preferably generated by one or two or more, particularly two O-rings 30. The O-rings 30 preferably surround the plunger 4 and are in contact with the housing 3 or the inner wall 3D in particular.

[0244] The O-rings 30 may be present in the first embodiment although not shown in the figures. Further, the second embodiment may have the same device as the device for generating the friction between the plunger 4 and the housing 3 described with respect to the first embodiment, in addition to or as an alternative to the O-rings 30.

[0245] The O-rings 30 preferably have one or two or more grooves (not shown). The grooves preferably enable air to pass between the O-rings 30 and the housing 3 or the wall 3D and / or to form the air passage 27 or a part thereof.

[0246] List of reference numerals 1 Implantation device 2 Implant 3 Housing 3A Axial end of 3 3B Opening of 3 3C Inside of 3 3D (Inner) wall of 3 3E Through-hole of 3 4 Plunger 4A Shaft end of 4 5 (Hollow) Needle 5A Bevel 5B Connection device of 5 5C Contact area 5D Opening of 5 6 Connection device of 1 7 Pusher 8 Actuator 9 Lever mechanism 10 (First) Arm 10A Fixed end of 10 10B Free end of 10 10C First section of 10 10D Second section of 10 11 (Second) Arm 11A First end of 11 11B Second end of 11 12 Joint 13 Connection section 13A Protrusion 14 Joint 15 Toggle joint 15A First bar of 15 15B Second bar of 15 15C Joint of 15 15D Fulcrum of 15 16 Secondary lever 16A Fulcrum of 16 17 Stopper 18 Stopper 19 Grip 20 Coupling device (actuator) 21 Coupling device (plunger) 22 Cap 23 Implant lock 24 (First) fixing device 24A (First) gripping section of 24 24B (Second) gripping section of 24 25 (Second) fixing device 25A Gripping section of 25 25B Extraction section of 25 26 Latching mechanism 26A Notch of 26 26B Cam of 26 27 Air passage 28 Flange 29 Stop device 29A Longitudinal section of 29 29B Transverse section of 29 30 O-ring 31 Inclined part 32 Notch 33 Holding device 33A Holding section 33B Connection section 33C Contact section 34 Holder 35 Indicator 36 Opening 37 Release device 37A Contact area 37B Recess 37C Spring section 37D Ring-shaped element 38 Blocking device 39 Recess 40A Connecting section 40B Connecting section 40C Score mark 40D Score mark A Axis

Claims

1. The implantation device (1) comprises a housing (3), a plunger (4) at least partially received in the housing (3), and a hollow needle (5) and / or a connecting device (6) for connecting the hollow needle (5) to the housing (3) at the axial end (3A) of the housing (3), wherein the plunger (4) is axially movable relative to the housing (3) and / or the needle (5). An implantation device (1) for inserting an implant (2) into tissue, particularly into the eyeball, The implantation device (1) has an actuator (8) for moving the plunger (4) relative to the housing (3), and the actuator (8) has or is formed of a lever mechanism (9), and / or The needle (5) is freely rotatable about its longitudinal axis (A) and relative to the housing (3), and / or The implantation device (1) has a retaining device (33) for holding the implant (2) received by the needle (5) in a fixed position, and / or The implantation device (1) has a cap (22) configured to cover the needle (5), and the cap (22) includes an implant lock (23) for keeping the implant (2) inside the needle (5). A transplantable device (1) characterized by the following:

2. The implantation device according to claim 1, characterized in that the actuator (8) has or is formed by a toggle joint (15).

3. The implantation device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the actuator (8) has an arm (10) that forms a secondary lever (16).

4. The implantation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the actuator (8) has an arm (10) comprising a first section (10C) and a second section (10D), the first section (10C) forming bars (15A, 15B) of a toggle joint (15), and the second section (10D) forming an operating section.

5. The implantation device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the actuator (8) has an arm (11) configured and / or positioned to act directly on the plunger (4) to move the plunger (4) particularly axially and / or toward the needle (5) and / or the connecting device (6) when the actuator (8) is actuated.

6. The actuator (8) is a one-piece component, and / or In particular, having a one-piece and / or joint (12), in particular two arms (10, 11) connected by a film hinge, The implantation device according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The actuator (8) is configured to snap with the plunger (4) when the plunger (4) reaches or has reached its final position, and preferably the snap generates tactile, visual, and / or audible signals, as described in claim 1 or 2.

8. The plunger (4) is latched into an initial position, and / or The implantation device (1) is configured such that the plunger (4) must exceed a force threshold to move out of the initial position and / or toward the needle (5) and / or the connecting device (6), The implantation device according to claim 1 or 2.

9. The implantation device (1) includes a grip (19) that is rotatably connected to or connectable to the housing (3) and rotatably fixed to or connectable to the needle (5), wherein the needle (5) can be freely rotated relative to the housing (3) by the rotation of the grip (19), as described in claim 1 or 2.

10. The implantation device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the plunger (4) and / or the housing (3) are arranged and / or configured such that the movement of the plunger (4) relative to the housing (3) is inhibited by friction.

11. The implantation device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the implantation device (1) includes an air passage (27) between the plunger (4) and the housing (3).

12. The implantation device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the implantation device (1) has at least one fixing device (24, 25), particularly at the opposite end of the needle (5) and / or the connecting device (6), a first fixing device (24) for preventing or blocking axial movement of the plunger (4) toward the needle (5) and / or the connecting device (6), and / or a second fixing device (25) for preventing or blocking axial movement of the plunger (4) toward the needle (5) and / or the connecting device (6).

13. The implantation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the implantation device (1) has a blocking device (38) for preventing the operation of the implantation device (1) and / or the actuator (8), particularly the pressing of the actuator (8) and / or its first arm (10), and preferably the blocking device (38) is configured to also prevent the movement of the plunger (4) toward the needle (5) and / or implant (2).

14. The housing (3) is at least partially translucent or transparent, and / or so that the plunger (4) or a part thereof is visible through the housing (3). The implantation device (1) has an indicator (35) for indicating the status and / or position of the retaining device (33) and / or implant (2), wherein the indicator (35) is preferably visible through an opening (36) of the implantation device (1) and / or housing (3) and / or connecting device (5B). The implantation device according to claim 1 or 2.

15. The implantation device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the retaining device (33) is designed as an elastic element, particularly a spring.

Images