IOL Haptic Drug Delivery With an Uninterrupted PCO Barrier Edge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intraocular lenses (IOLs) face challenges in maintaining a posterior capsular opacification (PCO) barrier while incorporating drug delivery devices, as the placement of these devices disrupts the sharply angular edge necessary for preventing lens epithelial cell migration.
Innovation Solution
The configuration of drug delivery devices on IOL haptics ensures that the PCO barrier edge is preserved by anteriorly displacing the posterior-most surface of the drug delivery device from the plane defined by the IOL's sharply angular edge, and in some configurations, the drug delivery device extends posteriorly beyond this plane with a distinct PCO barrier edge, maintaining the integrity of the PCO barrier.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If drug delivery devices are placed on IOL haptics, then therapeutic agents can be delivered to treat ocular conditions, but the sharply angular PCO barrier edge is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the drug delivery device in a different spatial dimension relative to the PCO barrier edge. By placing the drug delivery device on the haptic structure rather than directly on the lens optical zone, the therapy delivery function is added without compromising the sharp edge geometry needed for PCO prevention. The haptic serves as a separate platform that adds therapeutic functionality while maintaining the integrity of the primary PCO barrier function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If drug delivery devices are integrated with IOL, then multiple functions are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The IOL system is designed with multi-functionality by integrating the drug delivery device with the haptic structure. The haptic serves dual purposes: maintaining IOL positioning and supporting drug delivery functionality. This universal design allows a single integrated device to perform both optical correction and therapeutic delivery, reducing the need for separate implantation procedures while managing complexity through functional consolidation.
Data Source
AI summary
An ophthalmic implant including an intraocular structure with an anterior side, a posterior side opposite the anterior side, a central portion, a circumferential side wall circumscribing the central portion, and a haptic coupled to and extending outwards from the circumferential side wall The ophthalmic implant includes a drug delivery device attachable to the intraocular structure. The drug delivery device includes an anterior panel having an anterior panel side wall, an attachment structure extending posteriorly from the anterior panel and defining an opening for receiving the haptic therethrough, and one or more therapeutic agents dispersed within a polymer matrix positioned within the anterior panel. The attachment structure is devoid of the one or more therapeutic agents.