Implantable intraocular pressure drain
First Claim
1. An intra-ocular pressure drain comprising:
- a hollow tube consisting essentially of parylene and having i) an open end for implantation into an eye, ii) thinned regions of the hollow tube along a length thereof in a portion of the hollow tube positioned to lie outside the eye and iii) a closed end in the portion positioned to lie outside the eye.
1 Assignment
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Accused Products
Abstract
An implanted parylene tube shunt relieves intra-ocular pressure. The device is implanted with an open end in the anterior chamber of the eye, allowing excess fluid to be drained through the tube out of the eye. In one embodiment, only a first end of the tube implanted into the anterior chamber of the eye is open. Intra-ocular pressure (IOP) is then monitored, for example utilizing an implanted sensor. When IOP exceeds a critical value, a practitioner intervenes, puncturing with a laser a thinned region of the tube lying outside the eye, thereby initiating drainage of fluid and relieving pressure. In accordance with alternative embodiments, the both ends of the tube are open, and the tube includes a one-way valve configured to permit drainage where IOP exceeds the critical value. The tube may include projecting barbs to anchor the tube in the eye without the need for sutures.
45 Citations
11 Claims
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1. An intra-ocular pressure drain comprising:
a hollow tube consisting essentially of parylene and having i) an open end for implantation into an eye, ii) thinned regions of the hollow tube along a length thereof in a portion of the hollow tube positioned to lie outside the eye and iii) a closed end in the portion positioned to lie outside the eye. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11)
Specification