Adhesive-Coated Polymer Patch for Retinal Reattachment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for treating retinal detachment, such as scleral buckling, pneumatic retinopexy, and laser retinopexy, are inadequate in providing a stable and lasting seal, often resulting in re-detachment and vision loss due to improper sealing or tissue damage.

Innovation Solution

A biocompatible polymer patch with adhesive components, including disintegrins and bioerodible polymers like parylene-C, is surgically implanted to stabilize and reattach the retina to the choroid, facilitating natural reattachment by providing a temporary or permanent adhesive bridge.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If current repair methods (scleral buckling, pneumatic retinopexy, laser retinopexy) are used, then retinal reattachment can be achieved, but the seal is not stable and lasting, resulting in re-detachment and vision loss

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestability of retinal reattachmentVSAvoidtissue damage and improper sealing
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an adhesive-coated polymer patch as an intermediary substance between the retina and the underlying tissue. This patch acts as a mediator that provides a stable seal and promotes reattachment without causing tissue damage, directly resolving the contradiction between achieving reattachment and avoiding harmful effects

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention uses a composite structure consisting of a polymer substrate coated with adhesive substances. This composite material combines the mechanical properties of the polymer with the bonding properties of the adhesive, creating a reliable and stable seal that prevents re-detachment while being biocompatible

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If adhesive components are applied to the patch surface, then the patch can stabilize and reattach retinal tissue, but the complexity of the device increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadhesive bonding strengthVSAvoidstructure of patch with multiple adhesive components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the adhesive system into multiple components applied to different surfaces of the patch (first adhesive component on first surface, second adhesive component on second surface). This segmentation allows each adhesive to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall device simplicity through modular design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 polymer patch effectively stabilizes retinal damage, promotes healing, and reduces the risk of re-detachment and vision loss by providing a durable and biocompatible adhesive solution that is compatible with ocular tissues.

Implementation Method 1

the first adhesive component comprises a plurality of disintegrins coupled with at least a portion of the surface area the first planar face of the patch

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesive binding: Adhesive

Implementation Method 2

the plurality of disintegrins exhibit high affinity for integrin subunits such as αIIb, αv, α5, β1, β3 and β5

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMolecular affinity interaction:

Implementation Method 3

the patch bioerodes over time, which allows the retina to naturally reattach to the choroid

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBioerosion: Erosion

Data Source

PatentUS11793672B2Polymer substrate retinal patch coated with adhesives
Publication Date: 2023.10.24 UNIV OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
  • US11793672B2 patent drawing
  • US11793672B2 patent drawing
  • US11793672B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Several embodiments disclosed herein relate to compositions and methods for treating or repairing damage to ocular tissue. In particular, several embodiments relate to patches that interact, e.g., by way of an adhesive, with damaged retinal tissue to repair or mend a hole, tear or detachment of the retina from underlying ocular tissue. Still additional embodiments relate to self-assembling patches.