Ocular implant with fluid outflow pathways having microporous membranes
First Claim
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1. An ocular implant, comprising:
- an elongate member comprising;
a flow pathway;
at least one inflow port communicating with the flow pathway;
a plurality of outflow openings communicating with the flow pathway;
a braided structure having a plurality of interwoven struts and openings formed between the interwoven struts, wherein the braided structure is configured to form a first diameter for insertion through a self-sealing incision in the cornea of an eye and further configured to expand from the first diameter to a second diameter upon implantation in the eye; and
an elastomeric membrane spanning between at least one of the openings formed by the interwoven struts, wherein the elastomeric membrane is configured to form a first shape when the braided structure forms the first diameter and form a second shape when the braided structure expands to the second diameter,wherein the elastomeric membrane has a plurality of pores in fluid communication with the flow pathway; and
wherein the elongate member is adapted to be positioned in the eye such that the at least one inflow port communicates with the anterior chamber and the at least one of the openings communicate with the suprachoroidal space.
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Abstract
Disclosed are devices, methods and systems for treatment of eye disease such as glaucoma. Implants are described herein that enhance aqueous flow through the normal outflow system of the eye with minimal to no complications. The implant can include reversibly deformable portions that have a plurality of openings layered, covered or otherwise spanned by an elastomeric film or membrane having micropores. The micropores allow for fluid flow out of the implant while inhibit cellular infiltration and blockage of the openings.
92 Citations
13 Claims
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1. An ocular implant, comprising:
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an elongate member comprising; a flow pathway; at least one inflow port communicating with the flow pathway; a plurality of outflow openings communicating with the flow pathway; a braided structure having a plurality of interwoven struts and openings formed between the interwoven struts, wherein the braided structure is configured to form a first diameter for insertion through a self-sealing incision in the cornea of an eye and further configured to expand from the first diameter to a second diameter upon implantation in the eye; and an elastomeric membrane spanning between at least one of the openings formed by the interwoven struts, wherein the elastomeric membrane is configured to form a first shape when the braided structure forms the first diameter and form a second shape when the braided structure expands to the second diameter, wherein the elastomeric membrane has a plurality of pores in fluid communication with the flow pathway; and wherein the elongate member is adapted to be positioned in the eye such that the at least one inflow port communicates with the anterior chamber and the at least one of the openings communicate with the suprachoroidal space. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13)
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Specification