Ablatable Corneal Inlay With Cross-Linking for Presbyopia Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for correcting refractive errors and presbyopia, such as LASIK and SMILE procedures, have limitations including potential corneal thinning, ectasia, and inability to correct presbyopia, and there is a need for a method that reduces immune rejection and maintains corneal clarity during transplantation.
Innovation Solution
An ablatable corneal inlay is used, featuring a darkened annular area for presbyopia correction, inserted into a corneal pocket, and modified with a laser to correct refractive errors, with cross-linking to prevent rejection and strengthen biomechanical properties using a photosensitizer and ultraviolet radiation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If LASIK and SMILE procedures are used to correct refractive errors, then refractive correction is achieved, but corneal thinning and ectasia may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The cornea is segmented into different layers with distinct functions: the anterior stromal layer receives the inlay for refractive correction, while the posterior stromal layer maintains mechanical strength through cross-linking. This segmentation allows independent optimization of optical and mechanical properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The corneal inlay is constructed as a composite structure combining transparent material for optical clarity with cross-linked posterior stromal tissue for mechanical reinforcement. This composite design enables simultaneous achievement of refractive correction and structural strength.
2Manufacturing precision
If corneal transplant is performed to replace scarred cornea, then corneal clarity is restored, but immune rejection may occur
Solution Approach 1:
Cross-linking is applied locally to the posterior stromal layer of the corneal inlay, creating a zone of enhanced mechanical and immunological stability at the critical interface with the host cornea. This localized modification reduces immune rejection without compromising the overall transparency needed for visual function.
Solution Approach 2:
The corneal inlay is designed as a disposable implant that integrates with the host cornea through cross-linking, eliminating the need for long-term immunosuppression and reducing the risk of immune rejection associated with allograft transplantation.
3Manufacturing precision
If corneal transplant is performed to replace scarred cornea, then vision is improved, but corneal graft rejection occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The corneal inlay is pre-cross-linked before implantation to establish mechanical strength and immune resistance in advance. This preliminary action ensures that the graft is ready to withstand the host immune system and mechanical stresses from the outset, improving graft survival rates.
Solution Approach 2:
Cross-linking acts as an intermediary process that modifies the corneal inlay properties to better match the host cornea, serving as a bridge between the donor tissue and host immune system to reduce rejection and improve graft longevity.
4Manufacturing precision
If laser surgical techniques are applied to patients with thin corneas, then refractive correction is achieved, but corneal ectasia occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The cornea is divided into functional zones: the anterior stromal layer undergoes inlay implantation for refractive correction, while the posterior stromal layer receives cross-linking to maintain structural stability. This segmentation prevents ectasia by preserving mechanical strength in the posterior layer.
Solution Approach 2:
Cross-linking modifies the physical and chemical parameters of the posterior stromal layer, increasing its mechanical strength and resistance to deformation. This parameter change enables the cornea to withstand refractive surgery without developing ectasia, even in patients with initially thin corneas.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The ablatable corneal inlay effectively corrects refractive errors and presbyopia while minimizing immune response and enhancing corneal stability, providing a safer and more precise surgical solution.
Implementation Method 1
modifying the shape of the corneal inlay using a laser so that the corneal inlay is capable of correcting refractive errors
Implementation Method 2
irradiating the cornea so as to activate cross-linkers in the corneal inlay and/or cross-linkers in the portion of the host corneal tissue surrounding the corneal inlay
Data Source
AI summary
An ablatable corneal inlay for correction of refractive errors and/or presbyopia, and a method of correcting refractive errors and presbyopia in an eye of a patient using an ablatable corneal inlay is disclosed herein.