Dispensing device for dispensing an in particular intraocular implant

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dispensing device for dispensing an in particular intraocular implant, wherein the dispensing device has a housing, a cannula, a plunger and an implant arranged in the cannula. By actuating the dispensing device, the plunger is moved from a starting position to an end position relative to the housing in order to dispense the implant. According to one aspect, the cannula has a retention device for retaining and / or securing the implant in the cannula and the dispensing device has a stabilizing device for stabilizing the cannula. According to a further aspect, the plunger forms an assembly with a pusher which is produced by insert-moulding the pusher. According to a further aspect, the dispensing device has at least one air outlet through which air can escape from the interior of the housing to the outside. According to a further aspect, the dispensing device has a securing means for preventing actuation.

Description

[0001] Dispensing device for dispensing an in particular intraocular implant

[0002] The present invention relates to a dispensing device for dispensing an in particular intraocular implant according to the preamble of claim 1 .

[0003] The present invention relates in particular to a dispensing device for dispensing / in- jecting an implant into the tissue of a patient, such as a human or an animal. In particular, the dispensing device according to the present invention is configured to dispense or inject an implant intraocularly and / or into the eye of the patient. The implant preferably comprises a pharmaceutical active substance, which is dispensed into the tissue, in particular the eye, over a longer period of time, in particular several days, weeks or months.

[0004] Such dispensing devices are known in principle from the prior art.

[0005] For example, US 2014 / 0031833 A1 discloses a dispensing device for dispensing an implant, wherein the dispensing device has a housing, a cannula, a plunger and an intraocular implant.

[0006] EP 1 539 065 B1 discloses a dispensing device for dispensing an implant with a housing, a cannula, a plunger and an intraocular implant. Various possibilities for retaining the implant in the cannula are described.

[0007] US 11 ,819,454 B2 discloses a dispensing device for dispensing an implant with a housing, a cannula, a plunger and an intraocular implant. The dispensing device has a flexible arm, which is fastened to the cannula, for retaining the implant in the cannula.

[0008] WO 2023 / 232963 A1 relates to an implanting device for inserting a plant into tissue, in particular into an eyeball. The implanting device has a housing, a plunger received at least partly in the housing and, at an axial end of the housing, a hollow needle, and / or a connecting device for connecting a hollow needle to the housing, the plunger being axially movable relative to the housing and / or the needle.

[0009] WO 2015 / 130945 A1 relates to an apparatus and methods for introducing a solid or semi-solid intraocular drug-containing implant into the anterior chamber of an eye. The drug-containing implant can be a rod-shaped biodegradable implant that may

[0010] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 provide for the extended release of the drug and may be effective for treating a medical condition of the eye. The apparatus is economically designed in the shape or style of a pen with tactile surfaces for easy gripping, a needle-rotation knob to permit orientation of the needle bevel in relation to the eye, and a spring-actuated mechanism for consistent deployment of the implant.

[0011] US 2014 / 031833 A1 relates to an intraocular injector including a syringe body having open-ended cone disposed in one end thereof along with a piston disposed in the body. A transparent implant holder having a lumen therein is aligned with an open- ended cone, a needle include a proximal end and a distal end with a bevel disposed on the distal end of the needle. A plunger affixed to the piston and slidable within a holder lumen and needle lumen is provided for injecting solid intraocular implants into an eye. A cylindrical syringe body shape facilitates control over the needle bevel orientation during injection of the implant into the eye.

[0012] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved dispensing device for dispensing an in particular intraocular implant, preferably wherein malfunctions and / or damage are reliably avoided, wherein waste during the production of the dispensing device is reduced, which allows simple operation and / or use which is pleasant for the patient and / or user, and / or wherein inadvertent actuations and / or maloperations are reliably avoided.

[0013] The object of the invention is solved by the dispensing device according to claim 1. Advantageous developments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0014] The proposed dispensing device is designed for dispensing / injecting / applying an implant into the tissue of a patient, such as a human or an animal. Particularly preferably, the dispensing device is designed to dispense or inject an implant intraocularly and / or into the eye, in particular the vitreous body, the anterior chamber of the eye and / or the posterior chamber of the eye.

[0015] The proposed dispensing device preferably operates purely mechanically. In particular, the actuation of the dispensing device and the dispensing of the implant take place exclusively manually and / or by a user and / or his muscle power.

[0016] The dispensing device preferably has an in particular at least predominantly and / or partially hollow-cylindrical housing, an in particular fixedly / immovably cannula

[0017] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 connected with the housing, a plunger with an optional pusher and an implant arranged in the cannula, wherein, by a (manual) actuation of the dispensing device, the plunger is movable from a starting position to an end position relative to the housing in order to dispense the implant and / or in particular to push the implant out of the cannula by means of the pusher.

[0018] The starting position is preferably to be understood as that position of the plunger in which the plunger is in the delivery state and / or in the non-actuated state. In particular, the plunger projects maximally far out of the housing in the starting position.

[0019] The end position is preferably to be understood as that position of the plunger in which the plunger is in the fully actuated state. In particular, the plunger projects maximally far into the housing in the end position. Preferably, the implant is completely dispensed and / or pushed out of the cannula when the end position is reached.

[0020] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the cannula has a retention device for retaining and / or securing the implant in the cannula and the dispensing device has a stabilizing device for stabilizing the cannula, wherein the stabilizing device stabilizes and / or holds the cannula in the region of the retention device and / or in a region between the retention device and an axial end of the cannula. The stabilizing device increases the stability of the cannula and thus the safety during the operation and / or use of the dispensing device. In particular, damage or even destruction of the cannula can be prevented with the stabilizing device.

[0021] Preferably, the wall of the cannula has a through hole, in particular in the region of the retention device. The through hole enables a simple and / or preferred configuration of the retention device, as described below, but can mean a weakening of the mechanical stability of the cannula, which is usually already quite thin-walled and / or fragile in any case. In this context, the aforementioned stabilizing device is particularly advantageous in order to achieve the advantages associated with the aforementioned and / or desired configuration of the retention device, without having to accept the disadvantages of the reduced stability.

[0022] Preferably, the retention device is configured as a preferably flexible and / or elastic arm and / or the retention device or the arm projects inwards from a wall of the cannula and / or the retention device or the arm runs obliquely to a longitudinal axis of the cannula. The retention device according to this embodiment is simple to produce and

[0023] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 is conducive to a reliable securing and / or retention of the implant in the cannula and to a simple operation of the dispensing device. In particular, the retention device retains and / or secures the implant up to the moment of the movement of the implant and / or the dispensing of the implant, so that an accidental falling out of the implant from the cannula is reliably prevented before the intended dispensing of the implant. This is advantageous in particular compared to other solutions for retaining the implant in the cannula, in which the implant is secured by means of a rod or the like, which is fastened to a removable cap of the covering device and projects into the cannula. In such a solution, there is namely the risk that, after removal of the cap, the implant accidentally falls out of the cannula before the intended dispensing takes place.

[0024] The retention device, in particular the arm, is preferably configured in one piece with the cannula, in particular a wall of the cannula, and / or is formed by a section of the cannula, in particular the wall. The section is in particular punched out or cut out, in particular produced or generated by laser cutting. This configuration of the retention device leads to a reliable securing and / or retention of the implant in the cannula. The aforementioned stabilizing device interacts with this configuration of the retention device particularly advantageously and in a synergistic manner, since the (mechanical) stability of the cannula can be impaired by the retention device and / or the punched- out / cut-out arm. By combining the stabilizing device with the retention device, a simple operation with a reliable securing and / or retention of the implant in the cannula and avoidance of damage or destruction of the cannula is thus made possible and / or achieved.

[0025] However, it can also be provided that the retention device is arranged inside the cannula and consists of a polymer and / or that the implant is retained in the cannula by the retention device in an adhesive and / or material-bonded and / or form-fitting manner. Particularly preferably in this case, the retention device is arranged (in particular exclusively) radially between the implant and the wall of the cannula. This configuration of the retention device is also conducive to a reliable securing and / or retention of the implant in the cannula and to a simple operation of the dispensing device, wherein in particular the implant is retained and / or secured up to the moment of the movement of the implant and / or the dispensing of the implant, so that an accidental falling out of the implant from the cannula is reliably prevented before the intended dispensing of the implant. Particular advantages furthermore result in combination with the aforementioned through hole of the cannula in the region of the

[0026] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 retention device. The through hole enables a lateral introduction of the retention device and / or the polymer into the cannula, so that the retention device can be precisely placed at the desired location.

[0027] It is preferred that the stabilizing device is connected to the cannula on both sides of the retention device and / or through hole, in other words thus in front of and behind the retention device and / or through hole in relation to the longitudinal axis of the cannula, and / or holds and / or guides the cannula. This is conducive to an improved stability.

[0028] It is preferred that the stabilizing device is spaced apart from the cannula in the region of the retention device and / or through hole and / or has a through hole in the region of the retention device . This enables a visual and / or non-destructive inspection of the state of the retention device, in particular by a user such as a physician shortly before using the dispensing device and / or dispensing the implant from the dispensing device to a patient. In addition, during the production of the dispensing device, in particular during an injection molding of the stabilizing device, the entry of plastic into the cannula, in particular in the region of the retention device and / or through hole, is avoided.

[0029] The stabilizing device preferably has a passage in which the cannula is arranged and / or held. The stabilizing device and / or passage preferably encloses the cannula. This is conducive to an improved stability and / or a simple production process.

[0030] The stabilizing device is preferably configured in one piece with a cannula holder. This is conducive to the lowest possible number of different components of the dispensing device and / or a simple production and / or assembly process.

[0031] Preferably, the stabilizing device has a stop which defines a maximum insertion depth of the cannula. This is advantageous for a simple and / or safe operation of the dispensing device and / or is conducive to the lowest possible number of different components of the dispensing device and / or a simple production and / or assembly process.

[0032] According to a further aspect of the present invention, which can also be realized independently, the dispensing device has a pusher, which is fastened to the plunger, for pushing the implant out of the cannula, wherein the pusher and the plunger form

[0033] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 an assembly which is produced by insert-moulding the pusher. This is conducive to a reliable connection between pusher and plunger and / or fastening of the pusher to the plunger and facilitates a desired and / or correct geometric alignment of the parts relative to one another, in particular parallel to and / or along a longitudinal / central axis of the dispensing device. In particular, defective components can thus be easily avoided and / or the waste can be significantly reduced.

[0034] The pusher is preferably connected to the plunger along its axial extent at a plurality of points and / or over a region with an axial extent of at least 4 mm. This enables in particular a multiple fixing of the pusher during the injection-moulding process, in which the pusher is insert-moulded with the plunger and thus facilitates a desired and / or correct geometric alignment of the parts relative to one another, in particular parallel to the longitudinal axis of the dispensing device. In addition, this is conducive to a reliable connection between pusher and plunger. Overall, defective components can thus preferably be easily avoided and / or the waste can be significantly reduced.

[0035] According to yet a further aspect of the present invention, which can also be realized independently, the dispensing device has at least one, in particular lateral and / or radial, air outlet through which air can escape from the interior of the housing to the outside, in particular radially and / or laterally. The air outlet is arranged in the axial direction on a side of the plunger facing the cannula. The air outlet can prevent a pressure from building up inside the dispensing device and / or inside the housing during the movement of the plunger from the starting position into the end position and / or compressed air from getting into the tissue, in particular the eye, during the dispensing of the implant into the tissue of a patient.

[0036] The air outlet is preferably formed and / or arranged between a preferably at least substantially cylindrical main body and / or shaft of the housing and a cannula holder of the housing, the cannula holder being connected to the main body and / or shaft. This is conducive to a simple construction of the dispensing device and / or of the housing.

[0037] The air outlet is preferably configured as an at least substantially radial opening of the housing and / or opening in a side wall of the housing. The air outlet is preferably configured such that the main flow direction of air flowing out through the air outlet runs at least substantially radially to the longitudinal axis of the cannula and / or points away from the axial end of the cannula at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis of

[0038] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 the cannula. In this way, air escaping through the air outlet can be prevented from getting to the patient, in particular the eye thereof, so that inconveniences resulting therefrom are avoided.

[0039] The plunger preferably bears at least substantially in an airtight manner on the inside of the housing, in particular a main body of the housing. This is conducive, in particular in combination with the aforementioned pusher, to an exact axial and / or linear alignment of the plunger and / or pusher. The combination of this feature with the feature of the air outlet is therefore particularly advantageous, so that these features interact synergistically and result in the aforementioned advantages, which are then achieved jointly.

[0040] According to yet a further aspect of the present invention, which can also be realized independently, the dispensing device has an actuating device for actuating the dispensing device and a securing means, in particular transport securing means, for preventing actuation of the actuating device. The actuating device preferably has the plunger and / or the plunger is a section or part of the actuating device. The securing means has a section which at least partially covers an axial end of the actuating device and / or is arranged on a side of the actuating device facing away from the housing. In this way, an (accidental and / or incomplete) actuation, in particular an accidental depression of the actuating device and thus a movement of the plunger and / or dispensing of the implant, can be reliably prevented. In particular, the section or part of the securing means which covers the axial end prevents the user from actuating and / or moving the plunger without removing the securing means. It is thus prevented that the user erroneously assumes a successful use of the dispensing device and / or a completed dispensing of the implant.

[0041] The securing means is preferably configured as a preferably radially removable sleeve and / or clamp which at least partially encases the actuating device, in particular the plunger, in particular wherein the securing means is arranged between the housing and the axial end of the actuating device. This arrangement of the securing means reliably prevents a movement of the plunger and / or a dispensing of the implant caused thereby, in particular by a form-fitting blocking of a movement of the actuating device in the axial direction. The configuration as a radially removable sleeve and / or clamp is user-friendly and enables the blocking to be released in a simple manner.

[0042] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 The aforementioned aspects and / or features of the present invention and the aspects and features of the present invention resulting from the claims and the following description can be realized in principle independently of one another, but also in any desired combination.

[0043] Further aspects, advantages, features, properties and advantageous developments of the present invention result from the claims and the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the figures. In a schematic representation which is not true to scale:

[0044] Fig. 1 shows a side view of a proposed dispensing device;

[0045] Fig. 2 shows a sectional representation of the dispensing device according to Fig. 1 ;

[0046] Fig. 3 shows an exploded representation of the dispensing device according to Fig. 1 ;

[0047] Fig. 4 shows an enlargement of Fig. 2, in which a retention device according to a first embodiment and a stabilizing device are shown;

[0048] Fig. 5 shows the same detail as Fig. 4, wherein the dispensing device has a retention device according to a second embodiment;

[0049] Fig. 6 shows the same detail as Fig. 5, wherein the dispensing device has a retention device according to a third embodiment;

[0050] Fig. 7 shows the same detail as Fig. 4 in a top view of the dispensing device, wherein the needle is rotated by 90° with respect to the embodiment of Fig. 4;

[0051] Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of a cannula holder;

[0052] Fig. 9 shows a perspective view of a plunger with a pusher attached thereto;

[0053] Fig. 10 shows a section of the plunger and pusher according to Fig. 9; and

[0054] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 Fig. 11 shows an enlargement of Fig. 1 , in which an air outlet is shown.

[0055] In the only schematic figures, which are sometimes not true to scale, the same reference numerals are used for identical, similar or similar components and components, wherein corresponding or comparable properties or advantages can be achieved, even if a repeated description is dispensed with.

[0056] Fig. 1 shows the proposed dispensing device 1 in a perspective view, while Fig. 2 shows a section and Fig. 3 shows an exploded representation of the dispensing device 1.

[0057] The dispensing device 1 is preferably of multi-part design and / or comprises a plurality of parts / components, preferably wherein some or all components of the dispensing device 1 are connected to one another in a form-fitting, force-fitting and / or integrally bonded manner, in particular without screws.

[0058] The dispensing device 1 is preferably of elongate and / or rod-shaped design. Particularly preferably, the dispensing device 1 is designed as a (disposable) syringe and / or is modeled on the shape of a (disposable) syringe and / or is designed to be held and actuated in one hand by a user, such as a physician. In principle, however, a multi-handed operation of the dispensing device 1 is also possible.

[0059] The dispensing device 1 preferably has a housing 2, an actuating device 3, an injection needle and / or cannula 4 and / or an optional securing means 5, in particular transport securing means. Preferably, the dispensing device 1 has a protective cap, which is not illustrated, for protecting the injection needle and / or cannula 4.

[0060] The dispensing device 1 , in particular the housing 2 or at least a section thereof and / or the actuating device 3, are preferably of rotationally symmetrical design.

[0061] The dispensing device 1 , in particular the housing 2, the actuating device 3 and / or the cannula 4, preferably define / d efines an axis A, wherein the axis A forms a main, longitudinal, symmetrical, central and / or movement axis of the dispensing device 1 , in particular of the housing 2, the actuating device 3 and / or the cannula 4, and / or wherein the axis A runs centrally through the dispensing device 1 , in particular the housing 2, the actuating device 3 and / or the cannula 4.

[0062] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 In the following, the spatial orientation, the spatial position and / or the spatial assignment, in particular the terms “radial”, “axial”, “inside” and / or “outside”, relate / relates to the axis A, unless explicitly explained otherwise.

[0063] Preferably, a plurality of components of the dispensing device 1 , in particular the housing 2, the actuating device 3 and / or the securing means 5, are produced from plastic, in particular polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polyoxymethylene and / or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer, and / or injection-molded.

[0064] The cannula 4 preferably has a wall 4B which is in particular of (hollow) cylindrical design.

[0065] The cannula 4 has an (axial) end 4A which is in particular provided and / or configured to be pierced into the tissue of a patient. The axial end 4A of the cannula 4 is preferably bevelled and / or sharpened. The axial end 4A is preferably the distal end of the cannula 4.

[0066] The cannula 4 is preferably produced from metal, in particular stainless steel.

[0067] The housing 2 is preferably of multi-part design.

[0068] Preferably, the housing 2 comprises a main body 6, a closure 7 and / or a cannula holder 8, wherein the main body 6, the closure 7 and the cannula holder 8 form separate components of the housing 2. However, it is also possible for the housing 2 to be configured in one piece.

[0069] The main body 6, the closure 7 and the cannula holder 8 are preferably inserted and / or clipped axially into one another. The housing 2, in particular the main body 6, is preferably of hollow-cylindrical and / or rotationally symmetrical design.

[0070] The housing 2, in particular the main body 6, preferably has an in particular cylindrical shaft 9 and a finger rest 10, wherein the finger rest 10 is preferably formed by an annular projection on the main body 6 and / or the end thereof. In particular, the outer diameter of the finger rest 10 is greater than the outer diameter of the shaft 9, in particular by more than 1 cm.

[0071] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 Preferably, the closure 7 is inserted axially into the main body 6 from a first and / or distal side and the cannula holder 8 is inserted axially into the main body 6 from a second and / or proximal side.

[0072] The cannula holder 8 is preferably designed to hold the cannula 4 fixedly and / or immovably. In particular, the cannula 4 is held and / or fixed in the cannula holder s in a form-fitting, force-fitting and / or integrally bonded manner. Preferably, the cannula holder 8 is an injection-moulded part and / or produced by insert-moulding the cannula 4.

[0073] The dispensing device 1 preferably has an implant 11 , preferably wherein the implant 11 is arranged in the cannula 4.

[0074] The dispensing device 1 can also have a plurality of, in particular similar and / or identical, implants 11 , which are arranged in particular one behind the other in the cannula 4. The following explanations with regard to the implant 11 apply in particular to all implants 11 if the dispensing device 1 has a plurality of implants 11.

[0075] As already explained at the outset, the dispensing device 1 is designed to inject the implant 11 into the tissue of a patient (not illustrated), in particular by actuating the actuating device 3.

[0076] The actuating device 3 is preferably designed to push the implant 11 out of the cannula 4 by actuating the actuating device 3.

[0077] For this purpose, the actuating device 3 is (axially) movable relative to the housing 2. In particular, the actuating device 3 can be pressed into the housing 2 in order to push the implant 11 out of the cannula 4.

[0078] The actuating device 3 is preferably of elongate and / or plunger-like design.

[0079] The actuating device 3 preferably has an axial end 3A which is arranged in particular on the proximal side of the actuating device 3 and / or the side facing away from the cannula 4. The axial end 3A is preferably the proximal end of the actuating device 3.

[0080] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 The dispensing device 1 , in particular the actuating device 3, preferably has a plunger 12, a pusher 13 and / or a thumb rest 14. The thumb rest 14 is preferably arranged at the axial end 3A.

[0081] The actuating device 3, in particular the plunger 12, is preferably guided laterally and / or radially in the housing 2, in particular the closure 7.

[0082] As already explained, the actuating device 3 can preferably be pressed axially into the housing 2 in order to push the implant 11 out of the cannula 4. In particular, by actuating the dispensing device 1 , the plunger 12 is movable from a starting position to an end position relative to the housing 2 in order to dispense the implant 11 , in particular into the eye of a patient, particularly preferably the vitreous body, the anterior chamber of the eye and / or the posterior chamber of the eye.

[0083] The implant 11 is preferably configured as an intraocular, in particular intravitreal, implant. Preferably, the implant 11 comprises at least one pharmaceutical active substance and / or the implant 11 is designed to dispense a pharmaceutical active substance after injection of the implant 11 .

[0084] The implant 11 is preferably configured as an elongate capsule, in particular a hard or soft capsule.

[0085] Preferably, the implant 11 and / or the capsule has a matrix in which the pharmaceutical active substance is embedded, or the implant 11 and / or the capsule consists of a matrix in which the pharmaceutical active substance is embedded. The matrix is preferably biodegradable, in particular so that after dispensing the implant 11 into the tissue and / or the eye, the matrix is degraded, so that the pharmaceutical active substance is released and in particular can escape into the tissue and / or eye. In principle, however, the pharmaceutical active substance can also be encased by the matrix and / or arranged in the matrix.

[0086] Alternatively or additionally, it is also possible that the implant 11 consists of the pharmaceutical active substance in a predominant or very high proportion, in particular more than 90% by weight or 95% by weight, and the remaining proportion, in particular therefore less than more than 10% by weight or 5% by weight, consists of a carrier material. The carrier material is preferably a multi-component mixture, in particular a two-component mixture, and / or an adhesive. In particular, the

[0087] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 pharmaceutical active substance is bonded by the carrier material and / or the adhesive and / or the pharmaceutical active substance and / or the implant 11 is given a solid shape by the carrier material and / or the adhesive. In this embodiment, the active substance and the carrier material preferably dissolve over time after dispensing the implant 11 into the eye and / or tissue, so that the pharmaceutical active substance is released and in particular can escape into the tissue and / or eye.

[0088] Preferably, the implant 11 has a length of at most 10 mm, particularly preferably 6 mm or 4 mm, and / or a (maximum) width or a diameter of at most 1 mm, particularly preferably 0.5 mm or 0.3 mm.

[0089] As already explained, the actuating device 3 preferably has a pusher 13, wherein a (first) end of the pusher 13 is at least partially introduced into the cannula 4, as illustrated in particular in Fig. 2.

[0090] The pusher 13 is preferably designed as a wire which extends from the plunger 12 into the cannula 4.

[0091] The pusher 13 is preferably connected to the plunger 12 in a form-fitting, force-fitting and / or integrally bonded manner. This will be discussed in more detail later.

[0092] The pusher 13 is pushable into the cannula 4 by actuating the dispensing device 1 , in particular the actuating device 3, specifically in such a way that the implant 11 is pushed out of the cannula 4 by means of the pusher 13.

[0093] As already explained, the plunger 12 is guided radially and / or laterally in the housing 2, in particular the closure 7 and the shaft 9.

[0094] The closure 7 is preferably designed as a separate component and clipped and / or inserted into the housing 2, in particular into the finger rest 10.

[0095] The closure 7 is preferably of at least substantially annular design.

[0096] Preferably, the closure 7 comprises one or more holding elements 7A, wherein the holding elements 7A are latched to the main body 6 and / or engage radially in corresponding recesses 6A of the main body 6.

[0097] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 The closure 7 preferably comprises at least one spring and / or sliding element 7B, preferably wherein the spring and / or sliding element 7B, referred to below as spring element 7B, presses and / or is pretensioned laterally and / or radially against the plunger 12.

[0098] Preferably, the closure 7 comprises a plurality of, in particular two or three, spring elements 7B, in particular wherein the spring elements 7B are distributed equidistantly around the plunger 12 and press against the plunger 12 from different sides. All features which are explained below in connection with a spring element 7B are preferably also provided in the other spring elements 7B.

[0099] The spring element 7B preferably projects radially inwards in the direction of the cannula 4. The spring element 7B is preferably of elongate and / or tab-like design. In particular, the spring element 7B is inclined relative to the axis A.

[0100] Preferably, the spring element 7B is of resilient and / or flexible design, in particular such that the spring element 7B can be bent radially outwards by means of the plunger 12 during the actuation of the dispensing device 1.

[0101] Preferably, the closure 7, in particular the spring element 7B, is pretensioned against the plunger 12. In other words, the closure 7 exerts a pressure laterally and / or radially against the plunger 12 by means of the spring element 7B, so that the axial movement of the plunger 12 is inhibited and / or the force necessary for actuating the dispensing device 1 is increased, as explained in more detail below.

[0102] The actuating device 3, in particular the plunger 12, preferably has an in particular circumferential notch 15, preferably wherein the spring element 7B engages in the notch 15 and / or bears against the notch 15 of the plunger 12 in the starting position.

[0103] The notch 15 is formed by an in particular circumferential step 15A and an in particular circumferential slope 15B.

[0104] Starting from the end of the plunger 12 facing the cannula holder 8, the diameter and / or the (maximum) width of the plunger 12 abruptly decreases at the point of the notch 15 and / or the step 15A and continuously increases in the region of the slope 15B.

[0105] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 In the starting position, the end face of the spring element 7B bears axially against the step 15A of the notch 15, in particular such that the notch 15 and / or the step 15A forms a stop and / or secures the actuating device 3 against being pulled out of the housing 2.

[0106] In the starting position, the inner side of the spring element 7B bears against the slope 15B of the notch 15. Consequently, the inner side of the spring element 7B forms a sliding surface of the housing 2 and the slope 15B forms a sliding surface of the plunger 12.

[0107] If the dispensing device 1 is actuated and / or the plunger 12 is pushed into the housing 2, the plunger 12, in particular the slope 15B, presses the spring element 7B radially outwards counter to the spring force.

[0108] Consequently, it is provided that a resistance generated by the spring element 7B has to be overcome in order to actuate the dispensing device 1. In this way, the breakaway force for actuating the dispensing device 1 is increased such that it corresponds to the breakaway force of a dispensing device for dispensing a fluid, such as a (commercially available) (disposable) syringe, in particular according to DIN EN ISO 7886-1 :2020-11.

[0109] The term “breakaway force” in the sense of the present invention is preferably to be understood as that maximum (compressive) force which - starting from the starting position - is required for and / or during the (complete) actuation of the dispensing device, in particular for displacing the plunger from the starting position into the end position. Preferably, the breakaway force is that force which is required to overcome the static friction of the components of the dispensing device moving relative to one another, in particular the plunger, the housing, the pusher, the implant / implants and / or the cannula.

[0110] The dispensing device 1 is preferably configured such that the plunger 12, in particular the slope 15B of the notch 15, and the housing 2, in particular the closure 7, particularly preferably the spring element 7B and / or the inner side thereof, interact such that a (maximum) breakaway force of at least 2 N, 5 N or 10 N is required upon actuation of the dispensing device 1 , preferably starting from the starting position within a stroke of the plunger 12 of 2 mm or 4 mm.

[0111] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 According to a first aspect of the present invention, the dispensing device 1 preferably has a retention device 16 and / or a stabilizing device 17. The stabilizing device 17 and the retention device 16 are shown in particular in Figs. 4 and 5.

[0112] The retention device 16 serves in particular for securing and / or retaining the implant 11 in the cannula 4. In other words, the retention device 16 is preferably designed to prevent an (unintentional) falling out of the implant 11 from the cannula 4. Preferably, the cannula 4 has the retention device 16.

[0113] The stabilizing device 17 serves in particular for stabilizing the cannula 4. In particular, the stabilizing device 17 holds, guides and / or encloses the cannula 4.

[0114] The stabilizing device 17 holds the cannula 4 in the region of the retention device 16 and / or in a region between the retention device 16 and the axial end 4A of the cannula 4. In other words, the stabilizing device 17 is preferably arranged at least partially along the axis A in the region of the retention device 16 and / or between the retention device 16 and the axial end 4A.

[0115] A first embodiment of the retention device 16 is illustrated in particular in Fig. 4.

[0116] In the first embodiment, the retention device 16 is preferably configured in one piece with the cannula 4 and / or is integrated into the cannula 4.

[0117] The retention device 16 is preferably configured as a flexible and / or elastic arm.

[0118] The retention device 16 or the arm preferably projects inwards from the wall 4B of the cannula 4 and / or in the direction of the axis A and / or preferably runs obliquely to the axis A and / or the wall 4B.

[0119] The retention device 16 is preferably configured in one piece with the wall 4B of the cannula 4.

[0120] Preferably, the retention device 16 or the arm is formed by a section of the wall 4B. The arm is preferably configured in one piece with the cannula 4 or wall 4B or is formed from the wall or the material thereof. In particular, the arm is cut out or punched out of the wall, particularly preferably generated or produced or ripped out of the wall 4B by laser cutting.

[0121] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 The implant 11 is preferably arranged on the side of the retention device 16 facing away from the axial end 4A, so that the retention device 16 blocks an unintentional falling out of the implant 11 from the cannula 4 in a form-fitting manner.

[0122] In summary, according to the first embodiment of the retention device 16, it is therefore particularly preferred that the retention device 16 is formed by a flexible and / or elastic arm which is formed from the wall 4B and projects inwards obliquely from the wall 4B and which holds the implant 11 in position or secures it against falling out of the cannula 4 in a form-fitting manner.

[0123] Alternatively or additionally, however, it is possible that the retention device 16 presses against the implant 11 , in particular in the radial direction and / or laterally, so that the implant 11 is held in position in a frictional manner by the retention device 16.

[0124] However, the retention device 16 can also be configured differently.

[0125] In particular, according to a second embodiment illustrated in particular in Fig. 5, it can be provided that the retention device 16 consists of a polymer and / or adhesive and / or is arranged inside the cannula 4 and / or wall 4B. In particular, the polymer is an adhesive. The polymer and / or the adhesive is preferably biocompatible and / or biodegradable. Preferably, the polymer is or comprises polyvinyl acetate (PVA). However, it can also be another polymer, for example polylactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) or hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC).

[0126] Preferably, the retention device 16 and / or the polymer and / or the adhesive consists of the same material as the implant 11 and / or a capsule shell of the implant 11.

[0127] The retention device 16 and / or the polymer is preferably connected to the wall 4B and / or the implant 11 in an adhesive and / or material-bonded manner and / or blocks an (accidental) falling out of the implant 11 in a form-fitting manner.

[0128] Preferably, the implant 11 is thus retained, secured and / or held in position in the cannula 4 by the retention device 16 and / or the polymer in an adhesive and / or material-bonded and / or form-fitting manner.

[0129] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 According to a third embodiment, the retention device 16 preferably likewise consists of a polymer and / or adhesive, wherein it is particularly preferred, as illustrated in particular in Fig. 6, that the retention device 16 and / or the polymer and / or the adhesive is arranged exclusively radially around the implant 11 and / or exclusively radially between the implant 11 and the wall 4B. Particularly preferably, no polymer and / or adhesive and / or no section of the retention device 16 is arranged between the implant 11 and the axial end 4A of the cannula 4. According to the third embodiment, the retention device 16 and / or the adhesive and / or the polymer is therefore particularly preferably designed to connect the implant 11 to the wall 4B exclusively in an adhesive and / or material-bonded manner and / or not to block a falling out of the implant 11 in a form-fitting manner. Therefore, preferably no plug is formed by the adhesive and / or the polymer in the cannula 4 and / or between the implant 11 and the axial end 4A of the cannula 4. The remaining explanations with regard to the second embodiment apply analogously to the third embodiment.

[0130] The retention of the implant 11 by purely lateral bonding offers in particular the advantage that very little material is required, in particular considerably less material than by the formation of a plug which blocks a falling out of the implant 11 in a formfitting manner, and therefore, also, considerably less additional foreign material gets into the eye during the dispensing of the implant 11 into the eye.

[0131] In the described embodiments of the retention device 16 (“flexible arm” and “polymer”), the retention device 16 can preferably be overcome by applying a sufficiently large force during the movement of the plunger 12 and / or pusher 13. By applying a sufficiently large force, in the first embodiment the arm is pushed outwards by the implant 11 , on which the plunger 12 presses, and in the second embodiment the polymer and / or adhesive is destroyed and / or broken, so that the implant 11 passes / can pass the retention device 16 in each case.

[0132] The wall 4B of the cannula 4 preferably has a through hole 18, in particular in the region of the retention device 16 or in the vicinity thereof.

[0133] In the embodiment of the retention device 16 as a flexible arm, as illustrated in particular in Fig. 4, the through hole 18 is preferably caused by the cutting out or punching out of the retention device 16 or the arm from the wall 4B.

[0134] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 However, the through hole 18 can also be introduced into the cannula 4 and / or the wall 4 B thereof independently and / or separately from the retention device 16, in particular in the embodiment of the retention device 16 as a polymer. In the embodiments of the retention device 16 as a polymer, the through hole 18 enables in particular the lateral introduction of the retention device 16 and / or the polymer and / or the solution with the polymer into the cannula 4.

[0135] In the embodiment of the retention device 16 as a polymer, the retention device 16 and / or the polymer can be introduced into the cannula 4 as a drop and / or in liquid form, in particular in the form of a solution containing a solvent and polymer dissolved in the solvent. (Distilled) water is preferably used as the solvent. Preferably, the proportion of the polymer in the solution is less than 10% by weight, in particular at most 7% by weight, particularly preferably at most 3% by weight.

[0136] The introduction of the polymer and / or the solution into the cannula 4 can take place in that the polymer is introduced directly into the cannula 4, in particular laterally and / or via the through hole 18, and / or in that a drop of the polymer and / or the solution is applied to the implant 11 and the implant 11 with the polymer arranged thereon and / or the solution arranged thereon is pushed into the cannula 4.

[0137] After the introduction into the cannula 4, the polymer and / or the solution is preferably cured, in particular by heating, for example to 100° C.

[0138] The curing preferably produces an adhesive and / or material-bonded connection of the polymer to the cannula 4 and / or wall 4 B and / or to the implant 11 . After the curing, the polymer preferably surrounds the implant 11 at least partially in the radial direction. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible that the polymer is arranged or is being arranged between the implant 11 and the axial end 4A, in particular wherein the polymer forms a plug and / or closes the cannula 4, so that the implant 11 is retained, secured and / or held in position in a form-fitting manner by the polymer and / or the plug.

[0139] The stabilizing device 17 is preferably arranged, in particular connected to the cannula 4, (in the axial direction) on both sides of the retention device 16 and / or through hole 18. Preferably, the stabilizing device 17 holds, guides and / or encloses the cannula 4 on both sides of the retention device 16 and / or through hole 18.

[0140] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 Preferably, the stabilizing device 17 has a first section 17A and a second section 17B, wherein the first section 17A is arranged between the retention device 16 and / or through hole 18 on the one hand and the axial end 4A of the cannula 4 on the other hand, and wherein the second section 17B is arranged on the side of the retention device 16 and / or through hole 18 opposite the first section 17A. In other words, the first section 17 is preferably arranged on the distal side and / or the second section 17B is preferably arranged on the proximal side of the retention device 16 and / or through hole 18. Preferably, the sections 17A, 17B each hold, guide and / or enclose the cannula 4.

[0141] The stabilizing device 17 is preferably of sleeve-like design at least in sections, in particular in the first and / or second section 17A, 17B.

[0142] The stabilizing device 17 is preferably spaced apart from the cannula 4, in particular in the radial direction, in the region of the retention device 16 and / or through hole 18. In particular, the stabilizing device 17 has a hole 17D, the hole 17D preferably being a through hole or extending radially, in the region of the retention device 16 and / or through hole 18.

[0143] The hole 17D is preferably delimited in the axial direction by the first and second section 17B and / or is arranged between the first section 17A and the second section 17B.

[0144] The stabilizing device 17 preferably has a section 17C which is (radially) spaced apart from the cannula 4. In other words, a free space is preferably formed in the radial direction between the cannula 4 and the section 17C. In particular, the hole 17D forms this free space.

[0145] The section 17C is preferably arranged (in the axial direction) between the first section 17A and the second section 17B. The section 17C can therefore also be referred to as a further or third section 17C. In particular, the section 17C connects the first section 17A to the second section 17B and / or the section 17C merges seamlessly into the first and second section 17A, 17B.

[0146] Preferably, the third section 17C is arranged above the retention device 16 and / or through hole 18 and / or the third section 17C covers the retention device 16 and / or through hole 18.

[0147] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 The third section 17C preferably consists of two similar and / or symmetrical elements, which are in particular spaced apart from one another and / or lie diametrically opposite one another with regard to the cannula 4 or longitudinal axis A.

[0148] The third section 17C delimits the hole 17D preferably in the radial direction. The hole 17D is thus preferably formed between the three sections 17A, 17B and 17C and / or is delimited by these.

[0149] The stabilizing device 17 is preferably symmetrical, in particular mirror-symmetrical and / or symmetrical with regard to a mirror plane which comprises the axis A.

[0150] The stabilizing device 17, in particular the first and second section 17A, 17B, preferably has / have a passage 19 for the cannula 4. The cannula 4 is preferably arranged and / or held in the passage 19.

[0151] Preferably, the passage 19 is arranged centrally in the stabilizing device 17 and / or the passage 19 passes through the stabilizing device 17 in the axial direction.

[0152] Preferably, the stabilizing device 17 consists of plastic. The stabilizing device 17 is in particular an injection-moulded part or a section of an injection-moulded part. Particularly preferably, the stabilizing device 17 is produced by insert-moulding the cannula 4 and / or the stabilizing device is connected to the cannula 4 in a material- bonded manner.

[0153] The stabilizing device 17 is preferably configured in one piece with the cannula holder 8. In particular, the stabilizing device 17 constitutes a section of the cannula holder 8 facing the axial end 4A of the cannula 4.

[0154] Fig. 7 shows an alternative embodiment of the dispensing device 1 in a top view, in which the cannula 4 is rotated by 90° about the axis A with respect to the embodiments illustrated in Figs. 4 and 5.

[0155] In particular, in the alternative embodiment shown in Fig. 7, the through hole 18 is arranged and / or oriented in such a way that the main extension direction of the hole 17D is at least substantially parallel to a radial axis through the through hole 18 and / or retention device 16 and / or that the through hole 18 and the hole 17D are

[0156] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 oriented in the same way. In other words, in the alternative embodiment shown in Fig. 7, the through hole 18 and / or retention device 16 is preferably arranged and / or oriented relative to the hole 17D in such a way that a user looks at the through hole 18 and / or retention device 16 from above when looking through the hole 17D radially to the axis A.

[0157] In contrast thereto, in Figs. 4 and 5, the through hole 18 is arranged and / or oriented in such a way that the main extension direction of the hole 17D is at least substantially perpendicular to a radial axis through the through hole 18 and / or retention device 16 and / or that a user looks at the through hole 18 and / or retention device 16 laterally when looking through the hole 17D radially to the axis A.

[0158] In Fig. 7, the orientation of the cannula 4 and / or through hole 18 relative to the hole 17D is indeed illustrated in connection with the embodiment of the retention device 16 from Fig. 4, i.e. in particular as an arm, but the orientation of the cannula 4 and / or through hole 18 relative to the hole 17D shown in Fig. 7 can also be realized in connection with the embodiment of the retention device 16 from Fig. 5 or 6, i.e. in particular as a polymer.

[0159] The orientation of the through hole 18 and / or retention device 16 shown in Fig. 7 enables an improved visual inspection and / or accessibility of the through hole 18 and / or retention device 16 by a user. This is in particular advantageous in order to detect damage to the dispensing device 1 before use in a simple and reliable manner.

[0160] In principle, however, any desired orientations of the cannula 4 and / or through hole 18 and / or retention device 16 relative to the hole 17D are possible.

[0161] Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of the cannula holder 8.

[0162] Preferably, the stabilizing device 17 has a stop 20 which defines a maximum insertion depth of the cannula 4, or the stabilizing device 17 forms such a stop 20. The stop 20 is preferably formed by an end face of the stabilizing device 17, in particular of the first section 17A, which end face runs in particular radially and / or faces the axial end 4A of the cannula 4.

[0163] According to a further aspect, which can also be realized independently, the plunger 12 and the pusher 13 particularly preferably form an assembly which is produced by

[0164] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 insert-moulding the pusher 13. The plunger 12 is thus preferably an injection- moulded part.

[0165] The plunger 12 and the pusher 13 are preferably connected to one another in a material-bonded manner.

[0166] Along its axial extent, the pusher 13 is preferably connected to the plunger 12 at a plurality of points. This is illustrated in particular in Figs. 9 and 10.

[0167] Preferably, the pusher 13 is connected to the plunger 12 over an axial region B with a length and / or axial extent of at least 4 mm, in particular at least 8 mm, particularly preferably at least 12 mm. The axial region B can consist of a plurality of partial regions B1 , B2 which are separate and / or spaced apart from one another.

[0168] According to a further aspect, which can also be realized independently, the dispensing device 1 , in particular the housing 2, has at least one air outlet 21. Air can escape from the interior of the housing 2 to the outside through the air outlet 21.

[0169] The air outlet 21 is illustrated in particular in Fig. 11 .

[0170] Preferably, the dispensing device 1 has a plurality of air outlets 21 , which are in particular of similar and / or identical design. Preferably, the plurality of air outlets 21 are distributed uniformly in the circumferential direction about the axis A and / or are arranged at equal distances from one another. The following explanations with regard to the air outlet 21 preferably apply to all air outlets 21 if the dispensing device 1 has a plurality of air outlets 21 .

[0171] The air outlet 21 is preferably arranged in the axial direction on a side of the plunger 12 facing the cannula 4. In particular, the air outlet 21 is located in the vicinity of the cannula 4, in particular of the axial end 4A of the cannula 4, and / or in the vicinity of the cannula holder 8. The air outlet 21 is preferably arranged at an end of the housing 2, in particular of the main body 6 and / or shaft 9, opposite the closure 7.

[0172] Preferably, the housing 2 has the air outlet 21 .

[0173] The air outlet 21 is preferably arranged radially and / or laterally on the dispensing device 1 and / or the housing 2. In other words, the air outlet 21 is preferably

[0174] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 configured as an at least substantially radial opening of the housing 2 and / or the air outlet 21 is configured as an opening in a preferably cylindrical side wall of the housing 2. In particular, the shaft 9 constitutes a side wall of the housing 2 and / or the shaft 9 has the side wall of the housing 2.

[0175] The air outlet 21 is particularly preferably formed by an opening and / or a passage of the housing 2, in particular by an opening / passage formed between two different components of the housing 2.

[0176] Particularly preferably, the air outlet 21 is arranged and / or formed between the main body 6 and / or shaft 9 of the housing 2 and the cannula holder 8.

[0177] It is particularly preferred that the cannula holder 8 - as illustrated in particular in Fig. 7 - has a section 8A which is assigned to the main body 6 and / or shaft 9 and / or bears against the main body 6 and / or shaft 9, wherein the cannula holder 8 and / or the section 8A thereof has a recess and / or depression 8B, so that an opening and / or the air outlet 21 is formed between the cannula holder 8 and / or the section 8A and the main body 6 and / or shaft 9. The cannula holder 8 and / or the section 8A therefore preferably does not bear completely and / or not without interruption against the main body 6 and / or shaft 9, but rather permits the passage of air at a point provided therefor which is formed in particular by the recess and / or depression 8B.

[0178] Preferably, the section 8A has an at least substantially radial surface, wherein the recess and / or depression 8B forms a step of the radial surface and / or the recess and / or depression 8B is axially offset with respect to the radial surface. The section 8A preferably has a reduced thickness in the region of the recess and / or depression 8B.

[0179] However, other solutions are also possible here.

[0180] In particular, it is possible that the cannula holder 8 bears against the main body 6 and / or shaft 9 by means of the section 8A, wherein the main body 6 and / or shaft 9 has a recess and / or depression at the end facing the section 8, by means of which recess and / or depression the air outlet 21 and / or an opening between the cannula holder 8 and the main body 6 and / or shaft 9 is formed.

[0181] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 In particular, the air outlet 21 is configured in such a way that the air exits perpendicularly or obliquely to the axis A, in particular in a direction pointing away from the axial end 4A of the cannula 4.

[0182] The main flow direction R of air flowing out through the air outlet 21 preferably runs at least substantially radially and / or at an oblique angle to the axis A. In particular, the main flow direction points obliquely away from the axial end 4A of the cannula 4. This is illustrated schematically in particular in Fig. 11.

[0183] In this way, the outflowing air is directed away from the eye of the patient and / or outflowing air can be prevented from getting into the eye of the patient or into the vicinity of the eye.

[0184] The plunger 12 preferably bears at least substantially in an airtight manner on the inside of the housing 2, in particular the main body 6 and / or shaft 9. In particular, the plunger 12 has a preferably cylindrical section 12A which preferably bears over the entire circumference against the housing 2, in particular the main body 6 and / or shaft 9. This improves in particular the stability and / or the desired linear alignment of the plunger 12 and / or pusher 13 parallel to the axis A. In particular, a play between the plunger 12 and the housing 2 is avoided, which could lead to a disadvantageous and to be avoided slight oblique positioning of the pusher 13 relative to the axis A. However, the airtight bearing of the plunger 12 against the housing 2 also has the consequence that the air in the interior of the housing 2 is compressed and thus a pressure is built up during the movement of the plunger 12. However, it is undesirable that the combined and / or pressurized air gets into the eye and / or another tissue into which the implant 11 is to be dispensed. The air outlet 21 creates the possibility of using the advantages of the bearing of the plunger 12 against the housing 2, without accepting the disadvantages resulting therefrom.

[0185] According to yet a further aspect, which can also be realized independently, the dispensing device 1 (as already mentioned) preferably has a securing means 5 for preventing actuation of the actuating device 3. The securing means 5 preferably has a section 5A which at least partially covers the axial end 3A of the actuating device 3 and / or is arranged on a side of the actuating device 3 facing away from the housing 2.

[0186] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 The securing means 5 preferably engages around and / or overlaps the axial end 3A of the actuating device 3 and / or the thumb rest 14, in particular by means of the section 5A.

[0187] In particular, an actuation and / or contact of the axial end 3A and / or the thumb rest 14 is prevented by the section 5A.

[0188] The securing means 5 is preferably a transport securing means. The securing means 5 is thus in particular configured to prevent an (unwanted) movement and / or actuation of the actuating device 3 relative to the housing 2, for example during the transport of the dispensing device 1.

[0189] The securing means 5 is preferably arranged between the housing 2, in particular the closure 7 and / or the finger rest 10, and the axial end 3A of the actuating device 3 and / or the thumb rest 14. In this way, an axial movement of the actuating device 3 in the direction of the cannula 4 is preferably blocked in a form-fitting manner by the securing means 5.

[0190] In the illustrated embodiment, the securing means 5 is configured as a radially removable sleeve and / or clamp which at least partially encases the actuating device 3, in particular the plunger 12, in particular between the finger rest 10 and the thumb rest 14. The securing means 5 is preferably radially removable, so that by removing the securing means 5, the plunger 12 is released and can be pressed down.

[0191] The securing means 5 preferably has a gripping portion 5B. The gripping portion 5B is preferably designed to be gripped by a user in order to remove the securing means 5 (radially) from the actuating device 3.

[0192] The gripping portion 5B is preferably flat and / or plate-shaped. The gripping portion 5B preferably extends at least substantially radially with respect to the axis A and / or the actuating device 3.

[0193] The gripping portion 5 is preferably configured in one piece with the section 5A.

[0194] Individual features and aspects of the present invention can be realized independently of one another, but also in any desired combination.

[0195] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2 List of reference signs: Dispensing device 19 Passage Housing 20 Stop Actuating device 21 Air outlet A Axial end of 3 Cannula A axis A Axial end of 4 B Region B Wall of 4 B1 Partial region Securing means B2 Partial regionA Section of 5 R Main flow directionB Gripping portion of 5 Main body A recess Closure A Holding element B Spring element Cannula holder A Section of 8 B Recess / depression Shaft 0 Finger rest 1 Implant 2 Plunger 2A Section of 12 3 Pusher 4 Thumb rest 5 Notch 5A Step 5B Slope 6 Retention device 7 Stabilizing device 7A First Section of 17 7B Second Section of 17 7C (Third) Section of 17 7D Hole of 17 8 Through hole

[0196] 01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2

Claims

Claims:1 . Dispensing device (1 ) for dispensing an in particular intraocular implant (11 ), wherein the dispensing device (1 ) has a housing (2), a cannula (4), a plunger (12) and an implant (11 ) arranged in the cannula (4), wherein, by actuating the dispensing device (1), the plunger (12) is movable from a starting position to an end position relative to the housing (2) in order to dispense the implant (11 ), characterized in that the cannula (4) has a retention device (16) for retaining and / or securing the implant (11) in the cannula (4) and the dispensing device (1 ) has a stabilizing device (17) for stabilizing the cannula (4), wherein the stabilizing device (17) holds the cannula (4) in the region of the retention device (16) and / or in a region between the retention device (16) and an axial end (4A) of the cannula (4), and / or that the dispensing device (1 ) has a pusher (13), which is fastened to the plunger(12), for pushing the implant (11 ) out of the cannula (4), wherein the pusher (13) and the plunger (12) form an assembly which is produced by insert-moulding the pusher(13), and / or that the dispensing device (1 ) has at least one air outlet (21 ) through which air can escape from the interior of the housing (2) to the outside, wherein the air outlet (21 ) is arranged in the axial direction on a side of the plunger (12) facing the cannula (4), and / or that the dispensing device (1) has an actuating device (3) and a securing means (5) for preventing actuation of the actuating device (3), wherein the securing means (5) has a section (5A) which at least partially covers an axial end (3A) of the actuating device (3) and / or is arranged on a side of the actuating device (3) facing away from the housing (2).01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-22. Dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that a wall (4B) of the cannula (4) has a through hole (18), in particular in the region of the retention device (16).

3. Dispensing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the retention device (16) is configured as a preferably flexible and / or elastic arm and / or that the retention device (16) or the arm projects inwards from a wall (4B) of the cannula (4) and / or preferably runs obliquely to a longitudinal axis (A) of the cannula (4).

4. Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the retention device (16) is configured in one piece with the cannula (4), in particular a wall (4B) of the cannula (4), and / or is formed by a section, in particular a cutout or punched-out section, of the cannula (4), in particular wall (4B).

5. Dispensing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the retention device (16) is arranged inside the cannula (4) and consists of a polymer and / or that the implant (11) is retained in the cannula (4) by the retention device (16) in an adhesive and / or material-bonded and / or form-fitting manner, particularly preferably wherein the retention device (16) is arranged radially between the implant (11 ) and the wall (4B) of the cannula (4).

6. Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the stabilizing device (17) is connected to the cannula (4) on both sides of the retention device (16) and / or through hole (18) and / or holds and / or guides the cannula (4).

7. Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the stabilizing device (17) is spaced apart from the cannula (4) in the region of the retention device (16) and / or through hole (18) and / or has a through hole (17D).

8. Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the stabilizing device (17) has a passage (19) in which the cannula (4) is arranged and / or held.

9. Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the stabilizing device (17) is configured in one piece with a cannula holder (8) and / or has a stop (20) which defines a maximum insertion depth of the cannula (4).01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-210. Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pusher (13) is connected to the plunger (12) along its axial extent at a plurality of points and / or over a region (B) with an axial extent of at least 4 mm.

11. Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the air outlet (21 ) is formed between a preferably at least substantially cylindrical main body (6) and / or shaft (9) of the housing (2) and a cannula holder (8) of the housing (2), the cannula holder (8) being connected to the main body (6) and / or shaft (9).

12. Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the air outlet (21 ) is configured as an at least substantially radial opening of the housing (2) and / or opening in a side wall of the housing (2).

13. Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the air outlet (21 ) is configured such that the main flow direction (R) of air flowing out through the air outlet (21 ) runs at least substantially radially to the longitudinal axis of the cannula (4) and / or points away from the axial end (4A) of the cannula (4) at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis (A) of the cannula (4).

14. Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the plunger (12) bears at least substantially in an airtight manner on the inside of the housing (2), in particular a main body (6) and / or shaft (9) of the housing (2).

15. Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the securing means (5) is configured as a preferably radially removable sleeve and / or clamp which at least partially encases the actuating device (3), in particular the plunger (12), in particular wherein the securing means (5) is arranged between the housing (2) and the axial end (3A) of the actuating device (3).01-3615-WO-1 / VR25-4306-2

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