Minimally invasive instruments and methods for accessing the middle and inner ear through the tympanic membrane - Patent Application 20070122999

Abstract

Intratympanic injection of therapeutic agents into the inner ear can be used to treat conditions such as hearing loss. One or more stabilizer devices defining a working channel can be temporarily implanted into the tympanic membrane. Specialized instruments, such as endoscopes, forceps, and injection instruments, can be passed through the working channel of the stabilizer device to access the inner ear, where administration of the therapeutic agent can occur. The stabilizer device is then removed from the tympanic membrane, and the tympanic membrane can heal, typically without the need for suturing.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a continuation of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 965,481, filed January 24, 2020; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 024,183, filed May 13, 2020; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 040,495, filed June 17, 2020; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 051,568, filed July 14, 2020; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 051,568, filed September 11, 2020; This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 3 / 077,448, filed September 14, 2020, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 078,141, filed September 18, 2020, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 080,510, filed September 21, 2020, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 081,015, filed September 21, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 082,996, filed September 24, 2020. The disclosures of these prior applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. [Background technology]

[0002] Hearing loss can be the result of a variety of ear disorders. Conductive hearing loss (CHL) involves the loss of the normal mechanical pathway for sound to reach the hair cells in the cochlea, for example, due to malformations, fluid accumulation in the middle ear, the presence of a tumor, and / or damage to the ossicles. Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) results from the absence or damage of hair cells or the auditory nerve in the cochlea. SNHL is typically associated with exposure to loud noise, head trauma, aging, infection, Meniere's disease, tumors, and ototoxins. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] Several therapeutic treatments for hearing loss are known. There is a need for safe, direct, and effective drug delivery devices and methods that can provide therapeutic benefit in the treatment of hearing loss and other ear disorders, particularly those of the middle and inner ear.

[0004] These and other aspects are described in detail below with reference to the following drawings: Generally, the drawings are not to scale in either an absolute or relative sense and are for illustrative purposes, and the relative placement of features and elements may be modified for clarity of illustration. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a coronal cross-sectional view of the anatomy of the ear. [Figure 2] 10A-10C illustrate an implementation of the stabilizer device positioned across the tympanic membrane. [Figure 3] 10A-10C illustrate an implementation of the stabilizer device positioned across the tympanic membrane. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 shows the stabilizer device of FIG. 2 positioned on an insertion tool. [Figure 5] 10A-10C illustrate another implementation of the stabilizer device positioned externally to the eardrum. [Figure 6] 10A-10C illustrate another implementation of the stabilizer device positioned externally to the eardrum. [Figure 7A] 6 shows a stabilizer leg for use in combination with the stabilizer device of FIG. 5 in a folded configuration. [Figure 7B] 6 shows a stabilizer leg for use in combination with the stabilizer device of FIG. 5 in an extended configuration. [Figure 8A] 10A-10C illustrate another implementation of the stabilizer device positioned externally to the eardrum. [Figure 8B] 10A-10C illustrate another implementation of the stabilizer device positioned externally to the eardrum. [Figure 9] 10A-10C illustrate another implementation of the stabilizer device positioned externally to the eardrum. [Figure 10] 10A-10C illustrate another implementation of the stabilizer device positioned externally to the eardrum. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Conductive hearing loss (CHL) involves the loss of the normal mechanical pathway for sound to reach the hair cells in the cochlea due to, for example, malformations, fluid accumulation in the middle ear, the presence of a tumor, and / or damage to the ossicles. Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) results from the absence or damage of hair cells or the auditory nerve in the cochlea. SNHL is typically associated with exposure to loud noise, head trauma, aging, infection, Meniere's disease, tumors, ototoxins, and genetic disorders such as Usher's disease.

[0007] Depending on the cause, treatments for SNHL may include drug therapy for hair cell and cochlear afferent nerve regeneration, reversal of oxidative stress damage in the cochlea, and apoptosis suppression and reversal of inflammation. Several drugs are in late-stage clinical development for the treatment of hearing loss, including STS (Fennec Pharmaceuticals) for preventing cisplatin-induced hearing loss, AM-101 (Auris Medical) for the treatment of tinnitus, AM-1I1 (Auris Medical) for the prevention of ototoxicity in acute cochlear hearing loss, OTO-104 (Otonomy) for the treatment of Meniere's disease, and SPI-1005 (Sound Pharmaceuticals) for the treatment of mild-to-moderate acute noise-induced hearing loss and for the treatment of Meniere's disease.

[0008] The inner ear is challenging to effectively treat. For example, it accounts for only 0.004% of the mean circulating blood volume and is surrounded by some of the densest bones in the body. These factors, combined with the presence of the blood-labyrinth barrier (BLB), limit access to the inner ear for even the most therapeutically effective drugs. Oral, intravenous, and intramuscular drug administration routes are inefficient, necessitating high doses and the risk of systemic side effects. Local drug delivery is also known. For example, inner ear therapeutics (e.g., drugs formulated as biocompatible gels) can be delivered across the tympanic membrane (TM) into the middle ear via intratympanic injection. Passive diffusion of drugs from the middle ear to the inner ear after intratympanic injection has variable efficacy due to anatomical variations, such as the presence of a pseudomembrane overlying the round window membrane, failure of the injected formulation to contact the round window membrane, and limited permeability of the round window and vestibular window membranes. Furthermore, rapid clearance of medication from the perilymph of the inner ear results in the need for repeated intratympanic injections, which is undesirable for the patient and carries the risk of poor compliance as well as the cumulative risk of infection, inflammation, and long-term damage to the tympanic membrane. Accurate placement of the formulation near the round window membrane and assessment and removal of the pseudomembranous structures would significantly improve therapeutic efficacy, but is not easily achieved with current intratympanic techniques, which are performed "blindly" without visualization of the middle ear structures.

[0009] Direct delivery of therapeutic agents into the inner ear can also be achieved by injecting a drug or drug-releasing implant directly into the inner ear, either through the round window membrane or by drilling a small cochlear fenestration. This procedure would be similar to the placement of implants for cochlear stimulation. However, currently, such procedures are performed in a relatively invasive manner by making a postauricular incision and drilling through the mastoid bone to the middle ear cavity. Current middle and inner ear procedures are too invasive to justify the precise delivery of therapeutic agents into the inner ear for clinical trials and for subsequent adoption as beneficial treatments for inner ear diseases. A less invasive approach is needed.

[0010] The systems described herein allow for more efficient administration of inner ear therapeutics by providing minimally invasive access to the middle ear through the ear canal and tympanic membrane, whether by intratympanic or intracochlear administration. The systems described herein also improve access for various otologic surgical procedures, such as cholesteatoma removal, tympanic membrane repair, and ossicular chain repair, allowing these procedures to be performed in a less invasive manner.

[0011] The materials, compounds, compositions, products, and methods described herein will be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description of certain aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter and the examples included therein. Before beginning to disclose and describe these materials, compounds, compositions, products, devices, and methods, it is to be understood that the aspects described hereinafter are not limited to particular methods or particular reagents, as such may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0012] Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Unless otherwise indicated, all patents, patent applications, published applications and publications, websites, and other publications referenced throughout this disclosure are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In the event of multiple definitions of terms herein, the definitions in this section shall prevail. When reference is made to a URL or other such identifier or address, it should be understood that such identifiers may change and specific information on the Internet may be removed, but that equivalent information is known and readily accessible, for example, by searching the Internet and / or appropriate databases. These references attest to the availability and public knowledge of such information.

[0013] Relative directional terms such as anterior, posterior, proximal, distal, lateral, medial, sagittal, coronal, transverse, etc. are used herein throughout this disclosure to describe devices and device features and are not intended to be limiting. For example, as used herein, "proximal" generally means nearest to the user implanting a device and furthest from the target implantation location, and "distal" means furthest from the user implanting the device within a patient and closest to the target implantation location.

[0014] As used herein, a disease or disorder refers to a pathological condition in an organism that is the result of, for example, an infection or genetic abnormality and is characterized by identifiable symptoms.

[0015] As used herein, treatment means any manner in which the symptoms of a condition, disorder, or disease are ameliorated or otherwise beneficially altered, and includes any surgical or pharmaceutical use of the devices described and suggested herein.

[0016] As used herein, improvement or alleviation of the symptoms of a particular disease, such as by administration of a particular pharmaceutical composition, refers to any relief that may be attributed to or related to administration of the composition, whether permanent or temporary, persistent or transient.

[0017] As used herein, an effective amount of a compound for treating a particular disease is an amount sufficient to improve or in some way alleviate symptoms associated with the disease. Such an amount can be administered as a single dose or according to a treatment regimen, thereby being effective. This amount may cure the disease, but is typically administered to improve symptoms of the disease. Repeated administration may be required to achieve the desired symptomatic improvement. As used herein, the terms pharmaceutically effective amount, therapeutically effective amount, biologically effective amount, and therapeutically effective amount are used interchangeably to refer to the amount of a therapeutic agent sufficient to achieve a desired result, i.e., a therapeutically effective amount, regardless of whether quantitative or qualitative. Specifically, an in vivo pharmaceutically effective amount is an amount that results in the reduction, delay, or elimination of undesired effects (e.g., pathological, clinical, and biochemical) in a subject.

[0018] As used herein, sustained release includes the release of an effective amount of an active ingredient of a therapeutic agent over an extended period of time. This sustained release may include first-order release of the active ingredient, zero-order release of the active ingredient, or other release kinetics, such as intermediate or combinations of zero-order and first-order. Sustained release may include the controlled release of a therapeutic agent by passive molecular diffusion driven by a concentration gradient across a porous structure.

[0019] As used herein, the term "subject" includes any animal that is expected to be the subject of diagnosis, screening, monitoring, or treatment.Animals include mammals, such as primates and livestock.An example of a primate is a human.A patient refers to a subject, such as a mammal, primate, human, or livestock subject, that suffers from a pathological condition or is to be assessed for a pathological condition or risk of a pathological condition.

[0020] As used herein, a therapeutic agent referred to by a trade name includes one or more of a therapeutic agent formulation commercially available under the trade name, the active ingredient of a commercially available formulation, the generic name of the active ingredient, or a molecule containing the active ingredient. As used herein, a therapeutic agent or therapeutic agent is an agent that ameliorates the symptoms of a disease or disorder or ameliorates a disease or disorder. A therapeutic agent, therapeutic compound, therapeutic regimen, or chemotherapeutic agent includes conventional drugs or drug therapies, including vaccines, known to those skilled in the art and described elsewhere herein. A therapeutic agent includes, but is not limited to, a moiety capable of controlled and sustained release into the body.

[0021] As used herein, a composition refers to any mixture, which can be a solution, suspension, emulsion, liquid, powder, paste, aqueous, non-aqueous, or any combination of such components.

[0022] As used herein, fluid refers to any composition that can flow. Fluids therefore encompass compositions in the form of semi-solids, pastes, solutions, aqueous mixtures, gels, lotions, creams, and other such compositions.

[0023] As used herein, a kit is a packaged combination, optionally including instructions for use of the combination, and / or other reactive materials and ingredients for such use.

[0024] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates the anatomy of the ear, showing the outer, middle, and inner ear, as well as a portion of the skull 35 and Eustachian tube 45. The outer ear includes the pinna and ear canal 40. A tympanic membrane 5 provides a barrier between the ear canal 40 and the middle ear cavity or tympanic cavity 30. The inner ear can be divided into a bony labyrinth and a membranous labyrinth. Structural cavities within the bony labyrinth of the inner ear include the vestibule 10, semicircular canals 15, and the cochlea 20. The hair cells of the cochlea 20 are crucial for converting acoustic signals into nerve impulses. The hair cells are bathed in fluids, such as perilymph supplied by cells along the bony labyrinth and endolymph found within the membranous labyrinth, which help distinguish vibrations to aid in the hearing process and maintain balance and equilibrium. The round window 25 comprises a round window membrane, which in combination with the fenestra oval of the cochlea 20 allows for fluid movement within the cochlea 20 .

[0025] Described herein are devices configured to pass through the tympanic membrane and directly access the middle ear cavity in a sutureless, minimally invasive manner. For example, the devices described herein provide direct access to the middle ear for direct delivery of one or more therapeutic agents, implants, reservoirs, and application-specific instruments, such as endoscopes, cutters, forceps, needles, suction devices, lasers, etc., to the inner or middle ear cavity. Direct access through the tympanic membrane is safer, less invasive, and does not require sealing or suturing the tympanic membrane after device removal.

[0026] The devices described herein can be purely mechanical devices or can be at least partially actuated instruments. In some implementations, as described in more detail below, the devices incorporate one or more features that can provide stabilization, guidance, and / or visualization to the user, allowing for greater control during the procedure and knowledge of the relative injection location so that an informed choice can be made on the fly.

[0027] While the following describes instruments and methodologies for transtympanic surgical procedures, it should be understood that other surgical procedures may employ this methodology to enable other types of sutureless surgical procedures within the ear. Any of the devices and systems described herein may be used to deliver any number of combinations of instruments and / or agents. Furthermore, these surgical procedures include procedures performed on adults and pediatric applications.

[0028] After preparing the ear for the surgical procedure, surgical staff typically mounts a stabilizer device on an instrument, such as the insertion instrument shown in the schematic diagram of FIG. 4. The stabilizer device can be inserted into the ear canal 40 and implanted within the tympanic membrane 5. This insertion procedure is repeated as necessary to insert as many stabilizer devices as needed to meet the needs of a given procedure. In some implementations, the surgical procedure uses two surgical instruments simultaneously. Two stabilizer devices can be inserted to accommodate the two surgical instruments.

[0029] 2 and 3 show implementations of stabilizer device 100 positioned within tympanic membrane 5. Device 100 may include a proximal portion 102, a distal portion 106, and a membrane-piercing region 105 positioned between proximal portion 102 and distal portion 106. In some implementations, membrane-piercing region 105 and distal portion 106 are configured to pierce tympanic membrane 5, while proximal portion 102 is configured to remain outside of tympanic membrane 5.

[0030] The distal portion 106 is sized and shaped to be positioned within the middle ear distal to the tympanic membrane 5 and to be delivered through the tympanic membrane 5 in a minimally invasive manner. The long axis of the distal portion 106 can be oriented so that it is approximately or substantially perpendicular to the exterior surface of the tympanic membrane 5 at the insertion point. The distal end 108 of the distal portion 106 can be oriented so that its long axis forms any angle with respect to the tympanic membrane 5 and / or the longitudinal axis A of the device 100. The distal portion 106 is sized to have a width that is sufficiently small so that removal of the distal portion 106 from the tympanic membrane 5 leaves an incision or fenestration that does not require healing with sutures. In some implementations, the maximum diameter of the distal portion 106 is less than about 2 mm so that it can be inserted through a fenestration less than 3 mm in length.

[0031] The distal portion 106 may taper distally from a first outer diameter to a second, smaller outer diameter. In some implementations, the distal portion 106 tapers to a distal end 108. The distal end 108 may be sharpened to penetrate the tympanic membrane 5. For example, during insertion, force is applied to the stabilizer device 100, causing the distal end 108 to puncture and penetrate the tympanic membrane 5 without pre-forming a fenestration. The distal end 108 may form an atraumatic tip that minimizes damage to the tissue being punctured. The distal end 108 may incorporate any of a variety of non-coring beveled needle techniques to facilitate insertion of the device 100 through the tympanic membrane 5. In other implementations, the distal portion 106 tapers to a smaller outer diameter distal end 108, but the distal end 108 is generally blunt. In this implementation, stabilizer device 100 can be inserted through a pre-formed fenestration in the tympanic membrane 5. In other implementations, device 100 can be pre-loaded onto an introducer having a sharpened tube or post element, such as a needle or knife, on its distal end that extends beyond portion 108 in the loaded configuration. This sharpened element can form the fenestration and can be withdrawn after device 100 is in place, leaving working channel 110 open in the final implanted configuration. Whether distal end 108 is sharpened like a needle or substantially blunt, the tapered distal portion 106 allows stabilizer device 100 to smoothly pass through tympanic membrane 5 and avoid snagging on the tympanic membrane during distal advancement.

[0032] The proximal portion 102 is configured and sized to prevent over-insertion of the stabilizer device 100 through the tympanic membrane 5. For example, the proximal portion 102 may form a flange having a larger diameter compared to the distal portion 106 and the intervening transmembrane region 105. The angular configuration of the proximal portion 102 relative to the longitudinal axis A of the device 100 may help prevent the proximal portion 102 from passing through the tympanic membrane 5. For example, the proximal portion 102 can extend approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the device 100. The distal portion 106 of the stabilizer device 100 may be inserted through the tympanic membrane 5 until the tympanic membrane 5 is received within the transmembrane region 105 and the larger diameter proximal portion 102 abuts the outer surface of the tympanic membrane 5.

[0033] The proximal portion 102 may define a proximal opening 112 into a working channel 110 that extends through the stabilizer device 100 to a distal opening 114 located at or near the distal end 108. The working channel 110 of the stabilizer device 100 may be a fully enclosed lumen extending from the proximal opening 112 of the proximal portion 102 to the distal opening 114 located at or near the distal end 108. In other implementations, the working channel 110 is not fully enclosed, but can be a curved (e.g., C-shaped) guide surface configured to receive the curved outer surface of an instrument to guide the instrument through the tympanic membrane 5. The shape of the working channel 110 is configured to be geometrically complementary to the shape of a surgical instrument to be inserted through the device 100. The shape of the working channel 110 is generally cylindrical or arcuate. The size of the working channel 110 is configured to be complementary to the size of the surgical instrument to be inserted. In some implementations, the working channel 110 can have a cross-sectional diameter of about 25 gauge or 0.5 mm up to about 1.0 mm.

[0034] It should be understood that the overall length of stabilizer device 100 can vary. In some implementations, stabilizer device 100 is about 1.5 mm to about 3 mm long from proximal opening 112 to distal opening 114 and is formed from a relatively rigid material. In other implementations, stabilizer device 100 is about 1.5 mm to about 5 mm long from proximal opening 112 to distal opening 114 and is formed from a relatively flexible material similar to a flexible cannula. In each implementation, the smaller diameter transmembrane region extends about 0.1 mm to about 1.5 mm long and is configured to maintain the positioning of stabilizer device 100 across and within tympanic membrane 5.

[0035] Distal portion 106 can expand the incision in tympanic membrane 5 when the device is inserted, so that transmembrane region 105 is captured within the incision. The length of distal portion 106 can be sufficient to allow extension of stabilizer device 100 into the middle ear, such that distal opening 114 is positioned a distance away from the interior surface of tympanic membrane 5. However, the dimensions of distal portion 106 should be minimized to avoid contact between the device and middle ear structures.

[0036] The proximal portion 102 may provide a surface area and thickness sufficient to prevent the stabilizer device 100 from being forced through the tympanic membrane 5 and to provide a surface area large enough for surgical staff to identify and locate the device 100 positioned within the tympanic membrane 5. The dimensions (e.g., outer diameter or thickness) of the proximal portion 102 may vary. In some implementations, the outer diameter of the proximal portion 102 may be between about 2 mm and about 5 mm. The proximal portion 102 may serve as a handle for the device 100, or the proximal portion 102 may additionally incorporate a gripping feature configured to be manipulated by a user for insertion and removal of the device from the ear. The gripping feature may be grasped with an instrument, such as a pair of forceps, or by an insertion instrument specifically configured to mate with the gripping feature.

[0037] The transmembrane region 105 can have an outer dimension relative to the proximal portion 102 that is sized and shaped to receive the tympanic membrane 5 when the distal portion 106 is inserted through the tympanic membrane 5. The transmembrane region 105 can have an outer diameter between 0.25 mm and 1.0 mm. The transmembrane region 105 can have a length along the longitudinal axis A of the stabilizer device 100 that is between approximately 0.10 mm and 0.5 mm. The outer diameter and length of the transmembrane region 105 are sufficient to receive the thickness of the tympanic membrane 5 while preventing distortion, tearing, or other unintentional application of force to the tympanic membrane 5 after insertion of the device 100. The outer diameter of the transmembrane region 105 can vary along its length. FIG. 2 shows one implementation of the stabilizer device 100 having a substantially cylindrical transmembrane region 105 such that the outer diameter remains relatively constant along its length. 3 shows one implementation of a stabilizer device 100 having a transmembrane region 105 with a curved geometry along the longitudinal axis A of the device 100. In this implementation, the outer diameter expands toward the distal end, and then the distal portion 106 tapers toward the distal end 108 of the device 100. The outer diameter of at least a portion of the transmembrane region 105 can be larger than the outer diameter of the proximal-most end of the distal portion 106 (see FIG. 3).

[0038] The transmembrane region 105 may have a shape configured to assist in retaining the device 100 within the tympanic membrane fenestration. The transmembrane region 105 may form a ring or a toroid. The cross-sectional profile of the transmembrane region 105 may be circular. The cross-sectional profile of the transmembrane region 105 may be elongated and sized to correspond to the shape of the fenestration through the tympanic membrane after insertion of the device 100. For example, the fenestration may be a slit-shaped small incision. The elongated cross-sectional profile of the transmembrane region 105 may improve the fit of the device 100 within the slit-shaped fenestration through the tympanic membrane 5. The elongated cross-section may have a first dimension that is longer than a second dimension, thereby forming an enlarged slit, an enlarged slot, a biconvex lens shape, an oval shape, an oval shape, a biconvex shape, or an elliptical shape.

[0039] The stabilizer device 100 can be formed from a material that has the rigidity and strength for insertion into and removal from the tympanic membrane 5, while also withstanding stresses that may arise during manipulation of an inserted surgical instrument. In some implementations, at least a portion of the stabilizer device 100 is formed from a surgical metal, such as stainless steel, titanium, platinum, or nitinol, and / or a plastic, such as polyimide, PEEK, fluoropolymer, or silicone. In some implementations, the inserted portion of the device 100 can be formed from polyimide and have a maximum outer diameter of less than about 20 gauge (8 mm). One or more portions of the stabilizer device 100 can be coated or formed with a conformable material. For example, the retention feature 102 can be coated or overmolded with a material such as silicone or polyurethane.

[0040] Stabilizer device 100 can be a one-piece, unitary structure, such that proximal portion 102, transmembrane region 105, and distal portion 106 are all part of the same structure. It should also be understood that one or more portions of stabilizer device 100 can be separate components of device 100 that are configured to function together but are not necessarily rigidly secured or integrated together. For example, proximal portion 102 and distal portion 106 can be removably coupled to one another.

[0041] The stabilizer device 100 is configured and sized so that removal from the tympanic membrane 5 does not require the use of sutures to seal the incision or fenestration formed in the tympanic membrane 5 during insertion of the stabilizer device 100. Typically, the self-sealing fenestration through the tympanic membrane 5 has a length of less than about 2 mm, preferably about 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm. While the instruments and methods described herein provide the advantage of sutureless access to the middle and / or inner ear, this does not preclude a surgeon from applying one or more closure techniques after removal of the stabilizer device 100. For example, if desired, the surgeon may perform one or more techniques for closure of the fenestration in the tympanic membrane 5.

[0042] In use, a user can create one or more fenestrations in the tympanic membrane 5. These fenestrations can be approximately 0.25 mm to 1.25 mm in diameter. The fenestrations can be performed using a suitable cutting instrument, such as a blade, needle, perforator, laser, or other instrument. A stabilizer device 100 can be implanted in each tympanic membrane fenestration. In some implementations, the fenestration is a slice through the tympanic membrane, such as can be created with a needle. In other implementations, the fenestration is a hole in the tympanic membrane (e.g., created with a laser or perforator). The size of the stabilizer device positioned within the hole can be sized to fit the hole so that the force applied to the instrument is distributed around the hole to prevent further tearing.

[0043] In some implementations, the cutting instrument for forming the fenestration in the tympanic membrane 5 is at the distal end 108 of the stabilizer device 100. In other implementations, the cutting instrument is part of the instrument used for insertion of the stabilizer device 100. For example, the stabilizer device 100 can be mounted on an insertion instrument 200 (see FIG. 4 ). The insertion instrument 200 can include a proximal handle 205 configured to be grasped by a user, one or more actuators 210 movable relative to the handle 205, a distal delivery shaft 210 protruding from the distal end of the handle 205, and a stylet 212. The stylet 212 can be inserted through the working channel 110 of the stabilizer device 100 such that a distal tip 214 of the stylet 212 extends from the stabilizer device 100 beyond the distal opening 114. The distal tip 214 of the stylet 212 can be beveled like a needle so that it can be used to create a fenestration through the tympanic membrane 5. The actuator 210 can be actuated to release the device 100 while leaving it in place in the ear.

[0044] The handle 205 may be made from a high-performance engineering thermoplastic (e.g., PTFE) or a metal such as stainless steel or aluminum, depending on whether the insertion instrument 200 is intended to be durable or disposable. The handle 205 can be a unitary, single-piece molded structure or can be formed from two or more panels configured to join together. The handle 205 can include screw-fit or friction-fit panels configured to open to access the interior of the handle 205. The handle 205 may be similar in form factor to an otoscope, syringe, speculum, or other handheld instrument for use with the ear. The handle 205 can include an angled bend to ensure an unobstructed view through a surgical microscope and one or more gripping features, such as raised or ergonomic features, for gripping the instrument 200.

[0045] As previously mentioned, the handle 205 can incorporate one or more actuators 210, such as one or more plungers, triggers, buttons, switches, keys, sliders, or combinations thereof, mounted on a portion of the handle 205, which are configured to be actuated, e.g., pulled back, extended, pressed, twisted, slid, or otherwise actuated, to perform a particular function of the instrument 200. The one or more actuators 210 can be incorporated into a portion of the handle 205, such as the handhold, to provide ergonomic comfort for the user.

[0046] Stabilizer device 100 may be provided as part of a kit that includes one or more stabilizer devices 100 and an insertion tool 200, with or without a surgical tool configured to be inserted through stabilizer device 100.

[0047] Once stabilizer device 100 is positioned within tympanic membrane 5, one or more instruments may be inserted through working channel 110 of device 100. This working channel 110 may provide a passageway for introducing any of a variety of instruments or fluids into device 100. These instruments may be repeatedly inserted and removed through working channel 110 without damaging or distorting tympanic membrane 5. Typically, instruments inserted through working channel 110 may have an outer diameter between 0.25 mm and 0.80 mm.

[0048] Any of a variety of instruments can be inserted through the working channel 110 of the stabilizer device 100, including cutting instruments, injection instruments, suction instruments, light transmission instruments, energy application instruments, tissue manipulation instruments, and implant delivery instruments. The instruments inserted through the working channel 110 of one or more stabilizer devices 100 can include a small-gauge endoscope, with or without a light source and with or without a working channel. The instruments inserted through the working channel 110 of one or more stabilizer devices 100 can include a “chandelier” fiber optic light source tuned for middle ear illumination. This small-gauge chandelier fiber optic light source can provide hands-free internal illumination directly into the middle ear and can reduce reflections from the tympanic membrane when using transmembrane illumination, thereby improving visualization of middle ear structures. The instruments inserted through the working channel 110 of one or more stabilizer devices 100 can include microcutters / vertical scissors for pseudomembrane dissection. In some implementations, the cutting angle of the vertical sizers (i.e., the angle of the blade relative to the shaft) can be between 45 and 120 degrees. The instruments inserted through the working channels 110 of one or more stabilizer devices 100 can include curved suction picks / forceps for pseudomembrane removal. The instruments inserted through the working channels 110 of one or more stabilizer devices 100 can include or be integrated with fiber optic components. In some implementations, a diffuse light source can be placed through the working channel 110 into the middle ear to allow for better transtympanic visualization directly. This allows for internal illumination of the feature of interest, avoiding issues associated with external illumination, such as light reflection. Any of a variety of surgical interventions can be performed through the stabilizer device 100 after implantation.

[0049] For visualization of the middle ear, a small-gauge endoscope can be inserted through a minimally invasive tympanic membrane perforation. Endoscopes typically used in otology have a diameter of approximately 3 mm. Smaller, high-resolution, wide-field endoscopes (e.g., 23G) can be designed for the ear to allow visualization through a small perforation in the tympanic membrane without the need for a surgical ear canal flap.

[0050] In some implementations, an instrument inserted through the working channel 110 is configured to change shape and / or direction upon exiting the distal opening 114 of the working channel 110. This allows the instrument to be positioned at the round window membrane niche, for example, for drilling, depositing material, and / or removing the false round window membrane niche. By way of example, the instrument can be an extendable, articulatable, and / or curved microcannula for precise injection and / or placement of a drug formulation or implantable device onto, into, or through the RWM. Various other instruments are contemplated herein, including bent or small gauge needles, which are curved, extendable, and / or articulatable ultra-sharp knives for RWM drilling for controlled access to the inner ear cavity; diamond powder forceps and spatulas for improved grasping and scraping; and endolasers for enhanced RWM penetration.

[0051] The stabilizer device 100 enables the investigation of middle ear diseases and the delivery of therapeutic agents for treating inner ear diseases. For example, the stabilizer device 100 can be used to precisely place a drug product at or near the oval window or RWM and remove any pseudomembrane or other mucosal obstructions that may inhibit absorption of the drug product into the inner ear. The stabilizer device 100 can also enable better visualization of an implant or device and / or precise placement of an implant or device at or near the RWM, oval window, or other access point for treating inner ear diseases.

[0052] After completion of the surgical procedure or application of therapy, stabilizer device 100 is removed and tympanic membrane 5 is left to heal on its own without the need for additional intervention.

[0053] The tympanic membrane 5 is a delicate tissue that is easily damaged. However, direct contact with the tympanic membrane 5 can provide guidance for achieving the appropriate instrument depth (e.g., during needle injection). FIGS. 5-6 show a relative implementation of a stabilizer device 1100 configured to remain entirely external to the tympanic membrane 5 without penetrating the tympanic membrane 5 within the ear canal. The stabilizer device 1100 can include a proximal anchor 1105 configured for adjustable anchoring relative to the ear canal 40 and coupled to a distal cannula 1106 configured to be positioned adjacent the exterior surface of the tympanic membrane 5. A working channel 1110 can extend through the device 1100 from a proximal opening 1112 to a distal opening 1114. A distal opening 1114 may be positioned at the distal end 1108 of the distal cannula 1106 for insertion of minimally invasive instruments into the stabilizer device 1100 and the tympanic membrane 5.

[0054] The proximal anchor 1105 can expand from an insertion configuration having a smaller outer diameter to a deployed configuration having a larger outer diameter configured to hold the device 1100 in place within the ear canal 40. The proximal anchor 1105 can securely engage the surrounding ear canal 40 with sufficient force and / or friction to prevent migration of the stabilizer device 1100 or an instrument inserted through the stabilizer device 1100 during treatment.

[0055] The configuration of the proximal anchor 1105 can vary, including one or more rings, support legs, foam, balloons, expandable mesh, or other anchors. The proximal anchor 1105 can be conformal or compressible so that it deforms and assumes the shape of the ear canal 40 upon insertion. In some implementations, the proximal anchor 1105 can include an inner layer covered by an outer compressible layer. The outer compressible layer of the proximal anchor 1105 can include a compressible foam, such as urethane foam. Alternatively, the proximal anchor 1105 can be formed from materials such as gum rubber compounds, urethane, fluorocarbon elastomers, butyl rubber, EPDM (ethylene propylene rubber), latex rubber, neoprene (polychloroprene), nitrile rubber (acrylonitrile), polybutadiene, silicone rubber, SBR (styrene butadiene rubber), HNBR (hydrogenated nitrile rubber), fluoroelastomers, fluorosilicone, and the like.

[0056] The proximal anchor 1105 may expand elastically within the ear canal 40 or may comprise a soft solid elastomeric polymer or a plastically deformable polymer. The proximal anchor 1105 may also comprise an actively expanding feature, such as a balloon, support ring, etc. Figure 5 shows an implementation of the stabilizer device 1100 having an expandable balloon as the proximal anchor 1105. Figure 6 shows an implementation of the stabilizer device 1100 having multiple support rings or flexible flanges configured to conform to the ear canal 40 when inserted toward the tympanic membrane 5.

[0057] The proximal anchor 1105 can provide alignment within the ear canal 40 and direct the distal cannula 1106 to a desired location on the tympanic membrane 5. The proximal anchor 1105 can have a generally cylindrical shape with an outer diameter configured for smooth and effortless insertion and engagement into the ear canal 40. The proximal anchor 1105 can allow a weak seal to form between the ear canal wall and the outer surface of the proximal anchor 1105. The length of the proximal anchor 1105 can vary. At least a portion of the proximal anchor 1105 can taper toward the distal cannula 1106, which can have a smaller outer diameter than a proximal end region of the proximal anchor 1105.

[0058] The working channel 1110 can have a uniform inner diameter, as shown in Figures 5 and 6. The working channel 1110 can also have an inner diameter that varies along its length. For example, the working channel 1110 can be tapered to have a smaller inner diameter near or at the distal opening 1114 and adjacent the tympanic membrane 5. Such a configuration positions the fulcrum of instruments extending through the working channel 1110 near the tympanic membrane 5 and mitigates damage to the tympanic membrane 5 during manipulation and movement of the instruments.

[0059] In some implementations, the stabilizer device can incorporate a structure similar to a tympanic ventilation tube or a "grommet." As discussed above, the fenestration through the tympanic membrane into which the stabilizer device is placed can be a hole created by a laser or a trepanner, or a slice created by a surgical blade or needle. The size of the stabilizer device positioned within the hole can be sized to fit the hole so that the force applied to the instrument is distributed around the hole, preventing further dehiscence. A grommet-like stabilizer device fitted into a hole created in the tympanic membrane can be placed to allow the passage of instruments into and out of the middle ear during a surgical procedure in a manner that distributes the force of the instrument against the tympanic membrane, thereby preventing dehiscence. In combination with a grommet-like stabilizer device, or as a separate, independent approach, a scaffold or fixation device (such as a proximal anchor described elsewhere herein) can be positioned within the ear canal to allow the force of the instrument to be directed toward the ear canal wall rather than just near the tympanic membrane.

[0060] The configuration of this ear canal scaffold as described herein can be varied. FIGS. 8A-8B show one implementation of a stabilizer device 1100 that includes a proximal anchor 1105, similar to an ear speculum, positioned within the ear canal 40. Additionally, the proximal anchor 1105 can reduce forces otherwise applied to the tympanic membrane 5 during manipulation, rotation, etc. of the instrument. The proximal anchor 1105 can take the shape of a conical, adjustable speculum or cone that conforms to the ear canal 40. The proximal anchor 1105 can be threaded or otherwise telescopic to allow adjustment near the tympanic membrane 5. An instrument can be passed through the interior of the proximal anchor 1105 and through one or more small rings 1116 (e.g., 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm in diameter) located on the distal surface of the proximal anchor 1105 adjacent the tympanic membrane 5 to provide a fulcrum for the instrument to rotate. The cone shape of the proximal anchor 1105 can define a larger viewing channel, and a ring 1116 located at the distal end of the cone can form a smaller working channel through which one or more instruments can be inserted. The ring 1116 can provide stabilization and guidance for instrument manipulation, as described elsewhere herein.

[0061] In some implementations, the proximal anchor 1105 can be an expandable mesh, braid, stent, basket, cage, or other structural element configured to expand from a smaller size suitable for insertion to a larger size configured to fit within and anchor relative to the ear canal (see FIGS. 9-10 ). In some implementations, the proximal anchor 1105 can have a conical shape such that a central opening through the anchor 1105 provides access to the tympanic membrane 5, as described above and shown in FIG. 9 . In other implementations, the proximal anchor 1105 can be closed at its distal end region near the tympanic membrane 5 (see FIG. 10 ). An opening in the mesh adjacent the tympanic membrane 5 can be sized to allow passage of an instrument. A fenestration in the tympanic membrane 5 can be formed to ensure alignment of the mesh opening for passage of an instrument into the middle ear 30 after placement of the proximal anchor 1105. The proximal anchor 1105 can have any of a variety of shapes. The proximal anchor 1105 can have a basket or cup shape that opens at the proximal end to allow maximum rotation of the instrument around the distal mesh opening. Alternatively, the mesh openings can be of various sizes that taper from the proximal to the distal end of the device. After the procedure is complete, the proximal anchor 1105 can be deflated and removed.

[0062] In some implementations, stabilizer device 1100 can be similar in shape and form to an ear speculum. For example, stabilizer device 1100 can have a beveled frusto-conical shape and a smooth surface that allows for limited insertion into ear canal 40 without damaging the ear.

[0063] Working channel 1110 can extend through both proximal anchor 1105 and distal cannula 1106. Working channel 1110 can be sized to receive any of a variety of instruments, as described above. Working channel 1110 can be coaxial with longitudinal axis A of device 1100 or can be offset from axis A.

[0064] 7A-7B show one implementation of stabilizer device 1100 that includes multiple support legs 1200. The support legs 1200 can be expanded from an insertion configuration, in which the support legs 1200 extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis A of device 1100, to an extended configuration, in which the support legs extend outward at an angle relative to longitudinal axis A. The support legs 1200 can be coupled to a central housing 1205. In one implementation, stabilizer device 1100 includes three foldable legs 1200 coupled to a region of central housing 1205 that form a stabilizing tripod for distal cannula 1106 when extended. The legs 1200 can be symmetrically arranged about the longitudinal axis A of device 1100. Each of the legs 1200 can extend outward at an angle relative to axis A. The angle and even length of the legs 1200 in the extended configuration allow the legs 1200 to be positioned against the patient's ear canal 40. For example, the first leg 1200 may be positioned anteriorly on the patient's chin, the second leg 1200 may be positioned more caudally on the patient's skull near the neck, and the third leg 1200 may be positioned more cranially on the patient's skull near the vertex. Each leg 1200 may incorporate a foot member movably coupled to the distal end of the leg 1200, which is configured to fold outward when the leg 1200 is in the extended configuration and to fold inward when the leg 1200 is in the folded configuration. The legs 1200 may snap into an extended configuration to avoid unintentional folding. The degree of extension of each leg 1200 may be selectable among multiple preset angles relative to the longitudinal axis A. Each foot member can pivot about its attachment to the leg 1200 between an inwardly folded and an outwardly folded configuration to adjust the fit on the patient and provide better stabilization. In some implementations, the foot members are coupled to the leg 1200 by a barrel hinge-type coupling that provides at least two degrees of freedom. In other implementations, the foot members are coupled to the leg 1200 by a ball-and-socket-type coupling that provides any degree of freedom.Any of the stabilizer devices described herein can be coupled to multiple support legs 1200.

[0065] The devices described herein can incorporate one or more features to aid in visualization, aiming, and direction of one or more instruments to prevent unintentional puncture and damage to delicate structures within the ear during the procedure. The devices described herein can be coupled to a viewing lens, such as an otoscope lens or surgical microscope, through which the user views the tympanic membrane 5 while the device is advanced toward the tympanic membrane 5. Endoscopes, video visualization devices, optical coherence tomography, ultrasound, and other viewing equipment or technologies can be incorporated, as well as one or more illumination elements, such as LEDs, lenses, optical waveguides, filters, etc., that enhance visibility within the middle ear during use. Additionally, techniques for enhancing direct visualization through the tympanic membrane using a surgical microscope or otoscope, such as by applying glycerin or saline to the tympanic membrane in combination with middle ear illumination and / or wavelength filters to increase its transparency and decrease its refractive index, can be used to eliminate the need for an additional port for passage of an endoscope. Increasing the transparency of the tympanic membrane and reducing its refractive index variations may allow direct visualization of the middle ear through the membrane via a surgical microscope, especially when combined with a middle ear light source.

[0066] Direct transtympanic visualization may also be achieved by infrared (IR) imaging or surgical coherence tomography (OCT). For example, a camera or probe directed through the ear canal to the tympanic membrane may allow visualization of middle ear structures directly through the intact tympanic membrane.

[0067] Drugs and diseases The therapeutic devices described herein may be used to treat and / or prevent a variety of other conditions, including, but not limited to, hearing loss, including hidden hearing loss, noise-induced hearing loss, age-related hearing loss, drug-induced hearing loss, such as chemotherapy-induced hearing loss or aminoglycoside-induced hearing loss, sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), and autoimmune inner ear diseases. Any of a variety of ear diseases can be treated using the devices described herein. The therapeutic devices described herein may be used to treat other ear diseases, such as tinnitus. The therapeutic devices described herein may be used to treat balance disorders, including vertigo, Meniere's disease, vestibular neuritis, vestibular schwannoma, and labyrinthitis. The therapeutic devices described herein may be used to treat other ear diseases, such as otosclerosis, ossicular chain disruption, cholesteatoma, otitis media, and tympanic membrane perforation.

[0068] The following are examples of therapeutic agents that may be delivered from or with the aid of the therapeutic devices described herein and / or described in the applications incorporated herein by reference.

[0069] Therapeutic agents that may be delivered from or with the aid of the therapeutic devices described herein include, but are not limited to, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, steroids, antimicrobial agents, NMDA receptor antagonists, nootropics, anti-apoptotic agents, neurotrophins, neuroprotective agents, neuroprotective proteins such as CNTF, BDNF, PEDF, and NGF, cannabinoids, monoclonal antibodies, other proteins, gene therapy agents, iRNA, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), dual leucine zipper kinase (DLK) inhibitors, and protein therapeutic agents such as anti-VEGF.

[0070] By way of example, therapeutic agents include antibiotics such as tetracycline, chlortetracycline, bacitracin, neomycin, polymyxin, gramicidin, cephalexin, oxytetracycline, chloramphenicol, kanamycin, rifampicin, ciprofloxacin, tobramycin, gentamicin, erythromycin, and penicillin; antifungals such as amphotericin B and miconazole; sulfonamides, sulfadiazine, sulfacetamide, sulfamethizole, and sulfisoxazole; antimicrobial agents such as antibacterial agents, e.g., idoxuridine, trifluorothymidine, acyclovir, ganciclovir, and interferon; antiallergic agents, e.g., sodium cromoglycate, antazoline, methapyrilene, chlorpheniramine, pyrilamine, cetirizine, and profenpyridamine; antiviral agents, e.g., hydrocortisone, hydrocortisone acetate, dexamethasone, dexamethasone 21-phosphate, fluocinolone, medrysone, prednisolone, prednisolone; anti-inflammatory drugs such as azolone 21-phosphate, prednisolone acetate, fluorometholone, betamethasone, and triamcinolone; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as salicylates, indomethacin, ibuprofen, diclofenac, flurbiprofen, and piroxicam; decongestants such as phenylephrine, naphazoline, and tetrahydrozoline; and decongestants such as pilocarpine, salicylates, acetylcholine chloride, physostigmine, eserine, carbachol, diisopropyl fluorophosphate, phosphoric acid iodide, and demecalium. anti-mydriatics such as atropine sulfate, cyclopentolate, homatropine, scopolamine, tropicamide, eucatropine, and hydroxyamphetamine; sympathomimetics such as epinephrine; anti-tumor agents such as carmustine, cisplatin, and fluorouracil; immunological agents such as vaccines and immunostimulants; and anti-inflammatory agents such as estrogen, estradiol, progestational agents, progesterone, insulin, calcitonin, parathyroid hormone, and peptides.and vasopressin hypothalamic releasing factor; beta adrenergic blockers such as timolol maleate, levobunolol HCl, and betaxolol HCl; growth factors such as epidermal growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor, transforming growth factor beta, somatotropin, and fibronectin; carbonic anhydrase inhibitors such as dichlorophenamide, acetazolamide, methazolamide, and other drugs such as prostaglandins, antiprostaglandins, and prostaglandin precursors; antioxidants; NMDA receptor antagonists; nootropics; anti-apoptotic agents; neurotrophins; neuroprotective agents; tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs); dual leucine zipper kinase (DLK) inhibitors; cannabinoids; monoclonal antibodies; antibody fragments; other proteins; and gene therapy agents. Other therapeutic agents known to those skilled in the art that are capable of controlled, sustained release into the ear in the manner described herein are also suitable for use in accordance with the device embodiments described herein.

[0071] Therapeutic agents may include, but are not limited to, sodium thiosulfate for the prevention of cisplatin-induced hearing loss and an NMDA receptor antagonist (AM-10I; Auris Medical) for the treatment of tinnitus, AM-1I1 (D-stereoisomer of c-Jun N-terminal kinase inhibitor 1; Auris Medical), which contains the synthetic peptide D-JNKI-I, for the prevention of ototoxicity in acute cochlear hearing loss, dexamethasone for the treatment of Meniere's disease, D-methionine (Southern Illinois University) for the prevention of noise-induced hearing loss, LY411575 (a selective gamma-secretase inhibitor that blocks Notch activation), and NT-3 neurotrophic factor.

[0072] Therapeutic agents may include, but are not limited to, local anesthetics for delivery into the ear canal, including benzocaine, antipyrine, butambene, dibucaine, lidocaine, prilocaine, oxybuprocaine, pramoxine, proparacaine, proxymetacaine, and tetracaine.

[0073] Various pharmaceutically acceptable carriers for the therapeutic agents described herein include solids such as, for example, starch, gelatin, sugars, natural gums such as acacia, sodium alginate, and carboxymethylcellulose; polymers such as, for example, silicone rubber; liquids such as, for example, sterile water, saline, dextrose, dextrose in water or saline; condensation products of castor oil and ethylene oxide; liquid glyceryl triesters of low molecular weight fatty acids, lower alkanols such as mono- or diglycerides of fatty acids, or polysorbates such as lecithin and polysorbates. These may include oils such as corn oil, peanut oil, sesame oil, castor oil, and the like, containing emulsifiers such as phosphatides such as PEG 80, glycols and polyalkylene glycols including P407, and other combinations of polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol, aqueous media containing suspending agents such as sodium carboxymethylcellulose, hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, sodium alginate, polyvinylpyrrolidone, and similar compounds, either alone or in combination with suitable dispersing agents such as lecithin, cyclodextrin, and polyoxyethylene stearate. The carrier may also contain adjuvants such as preservatives, stabilizers, wetting agents, emulsifiers, or other related materials.

[0074] While the specification includes numerous specific examples, these specific examples should not be construed as limitations on the scope of what is or can be claimed, but rather as describing features specific to particular implementations. Some features described herein in the context of different implementations may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single implementation may also be implemented separately in multiple embodiments or in any suitable subcombination. Furthermore, while some features may be described above as operating in a particular combination and may even initially be claimed as such, in some instances, one or more features in the claimed combination may be deleted from such combination, and the claimed combination may include subcombinations or variations of the subcombination. Similarly, while operations are shown in the figures in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring such operations to be performed in the particular order or sequential order shown to achieve desired results, or as requiring that all illustrated operations be performed. Only a few examples and implementations are disclosed. Variations, modifications, and enhancements to the described examples and implementations, as well as other implementations, may be made based on this disclosure. While the claimed subject matter has been described in combination with its detailed description, the foregoing description is for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter in the appended claims.

[0075] In the above description and in the claims, phrases such as "at least one of" or "one or more of" may follow a list of elements or features joined by a conjunction. Also, the term "and / or" may appear in a list of two or more elements or features. Unless implicitly or explicitly contradicted by the context in which such term is used, this term is intended to refer to any of the listed elements or features individually, or any of the listed elements or features in combination with any of the other listed elements or features. For example, the phrases "at least one of A and B," "one or more of A and B," and "A and / or B" are intended to mean "A only, B only, or A and B together," respectively. Moreover, a similar interpretation is intended in the case of lists containing three or more items. For example, the phrases "at least one of A, B, and C," "one or more of A, B, and C," and "A, B, and / or C" are intended to mean "A only, B only, C only, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together," respectively.

[0076] Use of the term "based on" above and in the claims is intended to mean "based at least in part on," allowing for unrecited features or elements. [Explanation of symbols]

[0077] 5 Eardrum 10 Vestibule 15 Semicircular canals 20 Cochlea 25 Round window 30 Middle ear cavity, tympanic cavity 35 Skull 40 Ear canal 45 Eustachian tube 100 Stabilizer Device 102 Proximal portion, retention feature 105 Transmembrane region, intervening transmembrane region 106 Distal portion 108 Distal end 110 working channel 112 Proximal opening 114 Distal opening 200 Insertion Instrument 205 Proximal Handle 210 Actuator, Distal Delivery Shaft 212 Stylet 214 Distal tip 1100 Stabilizer Device 1105 Proximal Anchor 1106 Distal cannula 1108 Distal end 1110 Working Channel 1112 Proximal opening 1114 Distal opening 1116 Small Ring 1200 Support Leg 1205 Central Housing

Claims

1. 1. A system for treating the inner ear of a patient, comprising: one or more stabilizer devices configured to be removably implanted into the patient's tympanic membrane, the stabilizer devices defining a working channel therethrough; a proximal end portion configured to abut an exterior surface of the tympanic membrane while the stabilizer device is implanted in the tympanic membrane; a distal end portion configured to pass through the tympanic membrane, the distal end portion being positioned within the patient's middle ear while the stabilizer device is implanted in the tympanic membrane, the distal end portion tapering distally from a first outer diameter to a second outer diameter smaller than the first outer diameter; a membrane-piercing region positioned between the proximal end portion and the distal end portion, the membrane-piercing region configured to receive the tympanic membrane while the stabilizer device is implanted therein; and a plurality of foldable support legs coupled to a central housing connected to the proximal end portion, the foldable support legs being extended from an insertion configuration in which the foldable support legs extend parallel to a longitudinal axis of the stabilizer device to an extended configuration in which the foldable support legs extend outward at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the stabilizer device, the foldable support legs positioned against the ear canal in the extended configuration; a stabilizer device comprising: A stabilizer insertion tool, a delivery shaft, and a stylet sized to be inserted through the working channel when the stabilizer device is mounted on the stabilizer insertion instrument, the stylet having a beveled distal end that extends distally beyond the distal end portion of the stabilizer device when the stabilizer device is mounted on the stabilizer insertion instrument. A stabilizer insertion tool comprising: A system comprising:

2. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the beveled distal end of the stylet is sized to puncture the tympanic membrane and create a fenestration through the tympanic membrane into which the stabilizer device can be removably implanted.

3. 3. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the delivery shaft abuts the proximal end portion of the stabilizer device when the stabilizer device is mounted on the stabilizer insertion instrument.

4. 4. The system of claim 1, further comprising an instrument sized to be inserted through the working channel, the instrument including a microcannula for administering an injection of a drug formulation.

5. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the microcannula is curved to effect injection of the drug formulation through the round window of the inner ear.

6. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the microcannula is articulatable to effect injection of the drug formulation through the round window of the inner ear.

7. 7. The system of claim 1, further comprising an endoscope sized to be inserted through the working channel and to extend into the patient's middle ear.

8. 8. The system of claim 1, further comprising a forceps sized to be inserted through the working channel and to extend into the patient's middle ear.

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