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Composite lacrimal insert and related methods

  • US 9,764,066 B2
  • Filed: 08/21/2015
  • Issued: 09/19/2017
  • Est. Priority Date: 04/30/2008
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A method of delivering a therapeutic agent to an eye, comprising:

  • placing a lacrimal implant into a lacrimal canaliculus of a patient, wherein the lacrimal implant comprises;

    a unitary implant body, including first and second portions defining a single longitudinal axis, wherein the unitary body is formed from a substantially non-swelling polymer comprising one or more of a polyurethane polymer, a polyurethane copolymer, or silicone,the first portion extending from a proximal end of the implant body, the first portion having a first diameter, wherein the first portion includes a cavity extending inward from the proximal end of the first portion, the cavity having a first supply of a therapeutic agent for release to the eye, andthe second portion comprising a distal end portion of the implant body and extending from a distal end of the first portion, the second portion having a second diameter less than the first diameter; and

    an expandable retention member fully enveloping the second portion of the implant body, the expandable retention member configured to swell via absorption of an aqueous medium after insertion into the lacrimal canaliculus so as to retain the implant body within the lacrimal canaliculus.

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