Intraocular Lens Haptic Fixation for Stable Drug Implant Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intraocular drug delivery systems face challenges in securing drug delivery components to intraocular lenses (IOLs) efficiently, leading to potential migration and instability, which can affect the efficacy of therapeutic agents.
Innovation Solution
A stabilized intraocular drug delivery system is designed with a drug delivery component that includes a fixation portion with an opening to receive a haptic, secured by a retention tab and gusset, inhibiting movement relative to the IOL assembly, using haptic features like retention tabs and gussets to stabilize the drug delivery component.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a drug delivery component is attached to an intraocular lens using existing methods, then the therapeutic agent can be delivered to the eye, but the drug delivery component may migrate or move relative to the IOL, reducing stability and delivery efficacy
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment structure is divided into separate functional elements: a connection tab on the haptic and a retention tab that extends beyond it. The drug delivery component has a fixation portion with an opening that receives the haptic. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function independently while working together to prevent migration.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention tab extends in a direction beyond the connection tab, creating an overhang that prevents movement of the drug delivery component in multiple directions. This three-dimensional configuration adds a stabilizing dimension that constrains the drug delivery component against the IOL assembly without requiring additional complex structures.
2Reliability
If the drug delivery component is securely fixed to prevent migration, then stability is improved, but the structure becomes more complex requiring additional features like retention tabs and gussets
Solution Approach 1:
The haptic is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides structural support for the IOL, serves as an attachment point for the drug delivery component through the connection tab, and prevents migration through the retention tab. The gusset provides both structural reinforcement and an additional interface for the drug delivery component. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated stabilization structures.
3Device complexity
If existing attachment methods are used, then the device structure remains simple, but the drug delivery component may become dislodged or migrate, affecting therapeutic efficacy
Solution Approach 1:
The retention tab is pre-configured to extend beyond the connection tab during the attachment process. As the fixation portion of the drug delivery component is secured to the connection tab, the retention tab automatically engages to prevent movement. This preliminary configuration ensures stabilization is built into the attachment process itself, providing reliable fixation without requiring additional stabilization steps.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to an intraocular drug delivery system configured for implantation into an eye of a subject. The intraocular drug delivery system can include an intraocular lens (IOL) and a drug delivery component. The IOL includes an anterior side, a posterior side opposite the anterior side, a lens bordered by an edge and a haptic extending outwardly from the edge of the lens at a lens-haptic junction. The haptic includes, at the lens-haptic junction, a relief cut on the posterior side of the IOL. The drug delivery component includes a therapeutic agent and a fixation portion having an opening configured to receive the haptic therethrough. The fixation portion is configured to be secured to the relief cut of the haptic such that outward movement of the drug delivery component relative to the lens is inhibited.