Optic Nerve Support Implant for Glaucoma
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current therapies for glaucoma, including medications and pressure regulation methods, often result in side effects and are ineffective for normal tension glaucoma, where optic nerve damage occurs without elevated intraocular pressure, leading to potential vision loss.
Innovation Solution
An ophthalmic implant system that includes a base portion with a protrusion designed to extend into the optic nerve cup, providing structural support, combined with an adhesive for attachment, made from materials like polymethylmethacrylate or silicone, which can be adapted to fit individual eye sizes and shapes, and may include additives for light transmission or drug delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If medication is used to reduce intraocular pressure, then intraocular pressure decreases, but side effects occur (headache, blurred vision, allergic reactions, cardiopulmonary complications)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (viscoelastic material or adhesive) that acts as a mechanical support between the iris and lens, providing structural stabilization without requiring pharmacological intervention. This mediator physically supports the optic nerve and prevents angle closure, thereby reducing intraocular pressure through mechanical means rather than chemical drugs, avoiding medication side effects while achieving pressure control.
2Stress or pressure
If intraocular pressure is reduced below physiological levels, then glaucoma treatment is achieved, but risk of hypotony increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the approach from pharmacological parameter adjustment (drug dosage control) to mechanical parameter control (physical support structure). The viscoelastic material or adhesive provides stable mechanical support that maintains physiological pressure levels without the risk of over-correction to hypotony. The material's physical properties (viscoelasticity, adhesion strength) are engineered to provide consistent support that prevents both hypertensive and hypotensive extremes.
3Strength
If protrusion diameter is increased to provide better support, then structural support improves, but risk of optic nerve damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a viscoelastic material that forms a flexible, adaptable support structure rather than a rigid protrusion. This flexible material can conform to the optic nerve cup geometry and provides distributed mechanical support that prevents focal stress concentrations. The material's flexibility allows it to accommodate movements and pressure changes without exerting excessive force on the optic nerve, thereby providing strong support while minimizing damage risk.
4Strength
If adhesive strength is increased to ensure implant attachment, then implant stability improves, but risk of optic nerve damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the adhesion mechanism from strong chemical bonding to controlled mechanical interlocking and moderate adhesion. The viscoelastic material is delivered in a soft, moldable state that allows it to be shaped and positioned, then it sets or cures to provide stable attachment. This parameter change in the material's physical state during delivery versus final function allows for stable implantation without excessive adhesive strength that could damage the optic nerve during placement or long-term function.
Data Source
AI summary
Ophthalmic implants and methods of use that provide structural support to the optic nerve are disclosed herein. An adhesive and/or ophthalmic implant may be delivered to an optic nerve of an eye to relieve pressure on the optic nerve. The ophthalmic implant may include a base portion that includes a first surface and a second surface opposing the second surface and a protrusion from the second surface for extending into a cup of an optic nerve in an eye.