Scleral IOL Clip Fixation for Damaged Capsular Support

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for implanting an intraocular lens (IOL) in eyes with damaged capsular support, such as those with aphakia, are limited to specific types of IOLs, require complex surgical techniques, or result in sub-optimal vision and complications.

Innovation Solution

A clip device for securing the IOL to the sclera, comprising a pair of arms with a hinge and a scleral fixator, allowing secure attachment of various IOL types without requiring capsular support.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional IOL implantation methods are used in eyes with damaged capsular support, then the procedure is limited to specific IOL types and requires complex surgical techniques, but the ease of operation and device versatility deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveIOL fixation reliabilityVSAvoidSurgical complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

A scleral fixation device serves as an intermediary component between the IOL and the sclera. This device includes a scleral fixation member that anchors to the sclera and an IOL fixation member that secures the IOL, thereby mediating the connection when direct capsular support is unavailable. This intermediary approach enables reliable IOL fixation without requiring complex capsular tensioning techniques or specialized IOL designs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If traditional IOL implantation methods are used in eyes with damaged capsular support, then specific surgical techniques are required, but the adaptability to different IOL types deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveIOL fixation reliabilityVSAvoidIOL type compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The scleral fixation device is designed with universal applicability to accommodate various IOL types including foldable and rigid lenses. The device's modular structure with a scleral fixation member and an IOL fixation member connected by a flexible element allows it to adapt to different IOL configurations and surgical scenarios, thereby providing both reliable fixation and broad versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the lens capsule and zonule are damaged, then IOL implantation into the lens capsule becomes impossible, but alternative fixation methods increase device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveFixation method flexibilityVSAvoidFixation device structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fixation system is segmented into distinct functional components: a scleral fixation member for anchoring to the eye wall, a flexible connecting element, and an IOL fixation member for securing the lens. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall device design and surgical implementation compared to monolithic complex fixation systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12527661B2Intraocular lens clip and method of fixing intraocular lens

Publication Date: 2026.01.20 LEE VINCENT YAU WING

AI summary

This application discloses an intraocular lens (IOL) clip for fixing an IOL to the sclera of an eye. The IOL clip includes a first arm, a second arm opposing the first arm and a portion joining the first arm and the second arm. The IOL clip has an open state in which an IOL haptic can be introduced into a gap between the first arm and the second arm and a closed state for gripping the IOL haptic between the first arm and the second arm. The IOL clip includes a scleral fixator for attaching the IOL clip to the sclera. The scleral fixator includes a shaft and a flange.