Intraocular Lens Support Insertion Tool for Sutureless Scleral Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for implanting intraocular lenses (IOLs) in cases of compromised capsular or zonular support, such as those due to pseudoexfoliation, Marfan, or Weill-Marchesani syndromes, or surgical complications, often result in complications like UGH syndrome, endothelial cell loss, corneal decompensation, glaucoma, and iris pigment loss, and require the use of non-preferred lens types.
Innovation Solution
An insertion tool and lens support device with a distal hook and fixation arms for sutureless scleral fixation, allowing secure implantation of IOLs through a clear corneal incision, using a lens support device with a planar intermediate region and fixation arms that are anchored trans-sclerally to stabilize the IOL without sutures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If an anterior chamber IOL is used to provide lens support in cases of compromised capsular or zonular support, then lens stability is improved, but complications such as UGH syndrome, endothelial cell loss, and corneal decompensation occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a capsular tension ring as an intermediary device that restores capsular support structure, allowing the IOL to be positioned in the posterior chamber rather than the anterior chamber. This mediator device re-establishes the capsular bag's ability to support the IOL, eliminating the need for anterior chamber placement and its associated complications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the lens support function from the IOL itself by introducing a separate capsular tension ring device. This segmentation allows the support structure to be independently optimized and implanted, providing stable capsular support while enabling the use of preferred posterior chamber IOLs without compromising corneal health.
2Stability of the object's composition
If modified capsule tension rings are used off-label to provide sutured scleral support, then lens support is improved, but the technique becomes technically complex and suture durability is unknown
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the capsular tension ring with self-fixating features that allow the device to secure itself to the sclera without requiring sutures. The device's geometry and material properties enable it to engage with the scleral tissue mechanically, eliminating the need for complex suture techniques and providing known, predictable fixation durability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If iris suturing IOL is employed to secure the lens, then lens stability is improved, but iris pigment loss occurs causing glaucoma
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a capsular tension ring as a mediator device that restores the capsular support structure, allowing the IOL to be stabilized by the restored capsule rather than by direct iris suturing. This intermediary structure eliminates the need to suture the iris, preventing pigment loss and subsequent glaucoma while still achieving lens stability.
4Stability of the object's composition
If scleral suturing IOLs with islets is used to provide lens support, then lens stability is improved, but the technique is technically complex and suture breakage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the capsular tension ring with self-fixating mechanisms that eliminate the need for scleral sutures. The device's structural features enable it to anchor itself to the sclera through mechanical engagement, providing stable lens support while simplifying the surgical technique and eliminating suture breakage risks.
5Ease of manufacture
If non-preferred lens types are used due to compromised support structures, then lens implantation is possible, but optimal visual outcomes are not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a capsular tension ring as an intermediary device that restores the capsular support system, enabling the implantation of preferred posterior chamber IOLs that provide optimal visual outcomes. The mediator device re-establishes the necessary support structure to accommodate the surgeon's lens of choice rather than forcing the use of alternative lens types.
Data Source
AI summary
An insertion tool for delivering an implantable lens support device into an eye having a proximal end region; a distal end region having a distal hook; and an intermediate region connecting the distal end region to the proximal end region, the intermediate region being substantially planar. The distal end region and intermediate region are sized for insertion through a clear corneal incision. Related tools, methods, and devices are provided.