The present invention relates generally to implantable medical devices, and specifically to intraocular lenses.
Accommodating intraocular lenses (AIOLs) allow the eye to focus at different distances. The Crystalens® (Bausch & Lomb, Rochester, N.Y., USA) is an AIOL that has received FDA approval in the United States.
US Patent Application Publication 2011/0071628 to Gross et al. describes an accommodating intraocular lens (AIOL) implant that includes at least an anterior floating lens complex and a posterior lens complex, each of which comprises one or more optical elements, and a frame comprising one or more levers, which are coupled to the frame and the anterior floating lens complex. The levers are configured to leverage motion of the frame to move the anterior floating lens complex with respect to the posterior lens complex. Other embodiments are also described.
US Patent Application Publication 2014/0309735 to Sohn et al., which is incorporated herein by reference, describes an accommodating intraocular lens implant that includes an anterior floating lens unit, a posterior lens unit, an anterior lens link, and an anterior rim link, which comprises an anterior rim jointed element. An anterior rim complex is disposed such that the anterior floating lens unit is movable toward and away from the anterior rim complex, in an anterior-posterior direction. A lever is connected (a) at a first longitudinal site along the lever, to the anterior floating lens unit by the anterior lens link, and (b) at a second longitudinal site along the lever, to the anterior rim complex by the anterior rim link. The lever, at a third longitudinal site along the lever, is in jointed connection with the posterior lens unit. The second site is longitudinally between the first and the third sites along the lever.
PCT Publication WO 2015/198236 to Sohn et al., which is incorporated herein by reference, describes an accommodating intraocular lens implant that includes an anterior floating lens unit, a posterior lens unit, and an anterior rim complex disposed such that the anterior floating lens unit is movable toward and away from the anterior rim complex. A plurality of levers are in jointed connection with: the anterior floating lens unit at respective first longitudinal sites along the levers, the anterior rim complex at respective second longitudinal sites along the levers, and the posterior lens unit at respective third longitudinal sites along the levers. For each of the levers, (a) a line defined by the second and third longitudinal sites, if projected onto a plane defined by a radially-outer perimeter of the lens implant, and (b) a line tangential to the radially-outer perimeter of the lens implant at a circumferential site of the perimeter circumferentially corresponding to the third longitudinal site, form an angle of between 75 and 105 degrees.
In some applications of the present invention, an accommodative intraocular lens implant is shaped so as to be assemblable into an assembled state in situ in a capsular bag of a human eye so as to have a central optical axis. The lens implant comprises an anterior floating lens unit, which comprises an anterior lens; a posterior lens unit, which comprises a posterior lens; an anterior rim; and levers.
When the lens implant is in the assembled state, the levers are, (a) (i) in pivotable contact with the anterior floating lens unit at respective first longitudinal sites along the levers, (ii) in pivotable contact with the anterior rim at respective second longitudinal sites along the levers, and (iii) in pivotable contact with the posterior lens unit at respective third longitudinal sites along the levers, and (b) arranged to move the anterior floating lens unit toward and away from the anterior rim, in an anterior-posterior direction, wherein, for each respective lever of the levers, the second longitudinal site is farther from the central optical axis than the first longitudinal site is from the central optical axis, and the third longitudinal site is farther from the central optical axis than the second longitudinal site is from the central optical axis.
The lens implant further comprises a circumferential rim, which is attached to the levers such that at least a portion of the circumferential rim is farther from the central optical axis than the second longitudinal sites are from the central optical axis. The lens implant is arranged such that in the assemble state elastic potential energy is stored in the lens implant as a result of deformation of the lens implant during a transition from a fully-accommodated state to a fully-unaccommodated state, and at least 50% of the elastic potential energy stored in the lens implant as the result of the deformation is stored in the circumferential rim.
The lens implant's accommodation typically provides a continuous range of focus, including near, distance, and intermediate distances. The lens implant exploits the natural accommodation mechanism of the eye, which reacts in order to sharpen the image on the retina. The lens implant thus typically reduces the need for glasses, which are generally required by patients with conventional IOLs. The lens implant is typically implanted in the eye after natural lens removal because of cataract, or for Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), using well-known IOL implantation techniques, including making a small incision.
There is therefore provided, in accordance with an Inventive concept 1 of the present invention, apparatus including an accommodating intraocular lens implant, which is shaped so as to be assemblable into an assembled state in situ in a capsular bag of a human eye so as to have a central optical axis, and which includes:
an anterior floating lens unit, which includes an anterior lens;
a posterior lens unit, which includes a posterior lens;
an anterior rim;
levers, which are, when the lens implant is in the assembled state, (a) (i) in pivotable contact with the anterior floating lens unit at respective first longitudinal sites along the levers, (ii) in pivotable contact with the anterior rim at respective second longitudinal sites along the levers, and (iii) in pivotable contact with the posterior lens unit at respective third longitudinal sites along the levers, and (b) arranged to move the anterior floating lens unit toward and away from the anterior rim, in an anterior-posterior direction, wherein, for each respective lever of the levers, the second longitudinal site is farther from the central optical axis than the first longitudinal site is from the central optical axis, and the third longitudinal site is farther from the central optical axis than the second longitudinal site is from the central optical axis; and
a circumferential rim, which is attached to the levers such that at least a portion of the circumferential rim is farther from the central optical axis than the second longitudinal sites are from the central optical axis,
wherein the lens implant is arranged such that in the assemble state:
wherein the lens implant further includes anterior lens jointed elements, and
wherein the levers are in the jointed pivotable connection, at the respective first longitudinal sites along the levers, with the anterior floating lens unit by the anterior lens jointed elements, respectively.
Inventive concept 12. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 11, wherein the lens implant is arranged when in the assembled state such that less of the elastic potential energy in aggregate is stored (a) in the levers at the second longitudinal sites, at respective interfaces between the levers and the anterior rim, and in the anterior rim, in aggregate than (b) in the levers at the first longitudinal sites, at respective interfaces between the levers and the anterior floating lens unit, and in the anterior lens jointed elements, in aggregate.
Inventive concept 13. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 1, wherein the levers and the anterior rim are not shaped to provide a snapping interface therebetween.
Inventive concept 14. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 1, wherein the lens implant is arranged when in the assembled state such that at least 50% of the elastic potential energy stored in the lens implant as the result of the deformation is stored in a volume of the circumferential rim, the volume equal to at least 4 mm3.
Inventive concept 15. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 1, wherein the lens implant is arranged when in the assembled state such that at least 50% of the elastic potential energy stored in the lens implant as the result of the deformation is stored in a volume of the circumferential rim, the volume equal to at least 5% of a total volume of all solid elements of the lens implant, excluding empty spaces defined by the lens implant.
Inventive concept 16. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 1, wherein a radially-outer perimeter of the lens implant is defined by the posterior lens unit.
Inventive concept 17. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 1, wherein the levers are shaped so as to define respective indentations on respective anterior sides at the respective second longitudinal sites, and wherein the anterior rim pivotably contacts the respective indentations when the lens implant is in the assembled state.
Inventive concept 18. The apparatus according to any one of Inventive concepts 1-17, wherein the circumferential rim is arranged in pivotable contact with the posterior lens unit when the lens implant is in the assembled state.
Inventive concept 19. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 18, wherein the circumferential rim is arranged in non-jointed pivotable contact with the posterior lens unit when the lens implant is in the assembled state.
Inventive concept 20. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 18, wherein the circumferential rim is arranged in the pivotable contact with the posterior lens unit around an entire circumference of the circumferential rim when the lens implant is in the assembled state.
Inventive concept 21. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 18, wherein the circumferential rim and the posterior lens unit are not shaped to provide a snapping interface therebetween.
Inventive concept 22. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 18, wherein the lens implant is arranged when in the assembled state such that less than 10% of the elastic potential energy in aggregate is stored at one or more interfaces between the circumferential rim and the posterior lens unit, and in the posterior lens unit, in aggregate.
Inventive concept 23. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 22, wherein the lens implant is arranged when in the assembled state such that none of the elastic potential energy in aggregate is stored at the one or more interfaces between the circumferential rim and the posterior lens unit, and in the posterior lens unit, in aggregate.
Inventive concept 24. The apparatus according to any one of Inventive concepts 1-17, wherein the circumferential rim is attached to the levers such that the entire circumferential rim is farther from the central optical axis than the second longitudinal sites are from the central optical axis.
Inventive concept 25. The apparatus according to any one of Inventive concepts 1-17, the lens implant is arranged when in the assembled state such that the elastic potential energy stored in the circumferential rim is stored around at least 270 degrees of the circumferential rim.
Inventive concept 26. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 25, the lens implant is arranged when in the assembled state such that the elastic potential energy stored in the circumferential rim is stored around 360 degrees of the circumferential rim.
Inventive concept 27. The apparatus according to any one of Inventive concepts 1-17, wherein when the lens implant is in the assembled state:
the posterior lens unit is shaped so as to define one or more ledges that face anteriorly, and
the levers are in the pivotable contact with the one or more ledges at the respective third longitudinal sites along the levers.
Inventive concept 28. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 27, wherein the circumferential rim is in pivotable contact with the one or more ledges.
Inventive concept 29. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 27, wherein the posterior lens unit is shaped so as to define a single ledge that extends around an entire circumference of the posterior lens unit.
Inventive concept 30. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 27, wherein the one or more ledges define one or more respective radially-inward edges, and wherein the levers are in pivotable contact with the one or more radially-inward edges at the respective third longitudinal sites along the levers when the lens implant is in the assembled state.
Inventive concept 31. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 27, wherein the posterior lens unit is shaped so as to define a circumferential lip that extends anteriorly beyond the one or more ledges, and wherein the one or more ledges project from the circumferential lip radially inward toward the central optical axis.
Inventive concept 32. The apparatus according to any one of Inventive concepts 1-17, wherein the lens implant is arranged such that in the assembled state:
a surface defined by the circumferential rim faces at least partially anteriorly when the lens implant is in the fully-accommodated state, and
the surface rotates toward the central optical axis during the transition from the fully-accommodated state to the fully-unaccommodated state.
Inventive concept 33. The apparatus according to any one of Inventive concepts 1-17, wherein the lens implant is arranged such that in the assembled state:
during the transition from the fully-accommodated state to the fully-unaccommodated state, the circumferential rim rotates about a circumferential axis thereof in a first rotational direction, thereby storing elastic potential energy, and
during a transition from the fully-unaccommodated state to the fully-accommodated state, the circumferential rim rotates about the circumferential axis in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction, thereby releasing the stored elastic potential energy.
There is further provided, in accordance with an Inventive concept 34 of the present invention, apparatus including an accommodating intraocular lens implant, which is shaped so as to be assemblable into an assembled state in situ in a capsular bag of a human eye so as to have a central optical axis, and which includes:
an anterior floating lens unit, which includes an anterior lens;
a posterior lens unit, which includes a posterior lens;
an anterior rim; and
levers, which are, when the lens implant is in the assembled state, (a) (i) in pivotable contact with the anterior floating lens unit at respective first longitudinal sites along the levers, (ii) in non-jointed pivotable contact with the anterior rim at respective second longitudinal sites along the levers, and (iii) in pivotable contact with the posterior lens unit at respective third longitudinal sites along the levers, and (b) arranged to move the anterior floating lens unit toward and away from the anterior rim, in an anterior-posterior direction, wherein, for each respective lever of the levers, the second longitudinal site is farther from the central optical axis than the first longitudinal site is from the central optical axis, and the third longitudinal site is farther from the central optical axis than the second longitudinal site is from the central optical axis.
Inventive concept 35. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 34, wherein the levers, when the lens implant is in the assembled state, are in non-jointed pivotable contact with the posterior lens unit at the respective third longitudinal sites along the levers.
Inventive concept 36. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 34, wherein the levers and the anterior rim are not shaped to provide a snapping interface therebetween.
Inventive concept 37. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 34, wherein the levers, when the lens implant is in the assembled state, are in jointed pivotable connection with the anterior floating lens unit at the respective first longitudinal sites along the levers.
Inventive concept 38. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 37,
wherein the lens implant further includes anterior lens jointed elements, and
wherein the levers are in the jointed pivotable connection, at the respective first longitudinal sites along the levers, with the anterior floating lens unit by the anterior lens jointed elements, respectively.
Inventive concept 39. The apparatus according to any one of Inventive concepts 34-38, wherein the lens implant further includes a circumferential rim, which is attached to the levers such that at least a portion of the circumferential rim is farther from the central optical axis than the second longitudinal sites are from the central optical axis.
Inventive concept 40. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 39, wherein the lens implant is arranged such that in the assembled state:
elastic potential energy is stored in the lens implant as a result of deformation of the lens implant during a transition from a fully-accommodated state to a fully-unaccommodated state, and
at least 50% of the elastic potential energy stored in the lens implant as the result of the deformation is stored in the circumferential rim.
Inventive concept 41. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 39, wherein the circumferential rim is arranged in pivotable contact with the posterior lens unit when the lens implant is in the assembled state.
Inventive concept 42. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 41, wherein the circumferential rim is arranged in non-jointed pivotable contact with the posterior lens unit when the lens implant is in the assembled state.
Inventive concept 43. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 41, wherein the circumferential rim is arranged in the pivotable contact with the posterior lens unit around an entire circumference of the circumferential rim when the lens implant is in the assembled state.
Inventive concept 44. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 41, wherein the circumferential rim and the posterior lens unit are not shaped to provide a snapping interface therebetween.
Inventive concept 45. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 39, wherein the circumferential rim is attached to the levers such that the entire circumferential rim is farther from the central optical axis than the second longitudinal sites are from the central optical axis.
Inventive concept 46. The apparatus according to any one of Inventive concepts 34-38, wherein when the lens implant is in the assembled state:
the posterior lens unit is shaped so as to define one or more ledges that face anteriorly, and
the levers are in the pivotable contact with the one or more ledges at the respective third longitudinal sites along the levers.
Inventive concept 47. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 46, wherein the posterior lens unit is shaped so as to define a single ledge that extends around an entire circumference of the posterior lens unit.
Inventive concept 48. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 46, wherein the one or more ledges define one or more respective radially-inward edges, and wherein the levers are in pivotable contact with the one or more radially-inward edges at the respective third longitudinal sites along the levers when the lens implant is in the assembled state.
Inventive concept 49. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 46, wherein the posterior lens unit is shaped so as to define a circumferential lip that extends anteriorly beyond the one or more ledges, and wherein the one or more ledges project from the circumferential lip radially inward toward the central optical axis.
There is still further provided, in accordance with an Inventive concept 50 of the present invention, apparatus including an accommodating intraocular lens implant, which is shaped so as to be assemblable into an assembled state in situ in a capsular bag of a human eye so as to have a central optical axis, and which includes:
a second posterior component, which includes a posterior lens rim;
a first anterior component, which includes:
a second anterior component, which includes an anterior rim,
wherein the levers are, when the lens implant is in the assembled state, (a) (i) in pivotable contact with the anterior floating lens unit at respective first longitudinal sites along the levers, (ii) in pivotable contact with the anterior rim at respective second longitudinal sites along the levers, and (iii) in pivotable contact with the posterior lens unit at respective third longitudinal sites along the levers, and (b) arranged to move the anterior floating lens unit toward and away from the anterior rim, in an anterior-posterior direction, and
wherein the first posterior component, the second posterior component, the first anterior component, and the second anterior component are not integral with one another, and are shaped so as to be assemblable into the assembled state in situ with one another in a capsular bag of a human eye.
Inventive concept 51. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 50, wherein, for each respective lever of the levers, the second longitudinal site is farther from a central optical axis of the lens implant than the first longitudinal site is from the central optical axis, and the third longitudinal site is farther from the central optical axis than the second longitudinal site is from the central optical axis.
Inventive concept 52. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 50, wherein the levers, when the lens implant is in the assembled state, are in jointed pivotable connection with the anterior floating lens unit at the respective first longitudinal sites along the levers.
Inventive concept 53. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 50, wherein the levers, when the lens implant is in the assembled state, are in non-jointed pivotable contact with the anterior rim at the respective second longitudinal sites along the levers.
Inventive concept 54. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 50, wherein the levers and the anterior rim are not shaped to provide a snapping interface therebetween.
Inventive concept 55. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 50, wherein the levers are shaped so as to define respective indentations on respective anterior sides at the respective second longitudinal sites, and wherein the anterior rim pivotably contacts the respective indentations when the lens implant is in the assembled state.
Inventive concept 56. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 50, wherein the levers, when the lens implant is in the assembled state, are in non-jointed pivotable contact with the posterior lens unit at the respective third longitudinal sites along the levers.
Inventive concept 57. The apparatus according to any one of Inventive concepts 50-56, wherein the lens implant further includes a circumferential rim, which is attached to the levers such that at least a portion of the circumferential rim is farther from a central optical axis of the lens implant than the second longitudinal sites are from the central optical axis.
Inventive concept 58. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 57, wherein the lens implant is arranged such that in the assembled state:
elastic potential energy is stored in the lens implant as a result of deformation of the lens implant during a transition from a fully-accommodated state to a fully-unaccommodated state, and
at least 50% of the elastic potential energy stored in the lens implant as the result of the deformation is stored in the circumferential rim.
Inventive concept 59. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 57, wherein the circumferential rim is attached to the levers such that the entire circumferential rim is farther from the central optical axis than the second longitudinal sites are from the central optical axis.
Inventive concept 60. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 57, wherein the circumferential rim is arranged in pivotable contact with the posterior lens unit when the lens implant is in the assembled state.
Inventive concept 61. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 60, wherein the circumferential rim is arranged in non-jointed pivotable contact with the posterior lens unit when the lens implant is in the assembled state.
Inventive concept 62. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 60, wherein the circumferential rim is arranged in the pivotable contact with the posterior lens unit around an entire circumference of the circumferential rim when the lens implant is in the assembled state.
Inventive concept 63. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 60, wherein the circumferential rim and the posterior lens unit are not shaped to provide a snapping interface therebetween.
Inventive concept 64. The apparatus according to any one of Inventive concepts 50-56, wherein when the lens implant is in the assembled state:
the posterior lens unit is shaped so as to define one or more ledges that face anteriorly, and
the levers are in the pivotable contact with the one or more ledges at the respective third longitudinal sites along the levers.
Inventive concept 65. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 64, wherein the posterior lens unit is shaped so as to define a single ledge that extends around an entire circumference of the posterior lens unit.
Inventive concept 66. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 64, wherein the one or more ledges define one or more respective radially-inward edges, and wherein the levers are in pivotable contact with the one or more radially-inward edges at the respective third longitudinal sites along the levers when the lens implant is in the assembled state.
Inventive concept 67. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 64, wherein the posterior lens unit is shaped so as to define a circumferential lip that extends anteriorly beyond the one or more ledges, and wherein the one or more ledges project from the circumferential lip radially inward toward the central optical axis.
Inventive concept 68. The apparatus according to any one of Inventive concepts 50-56, further including an introducer system, which includes:
a first posterior introducer tube, in which the first posterior component is removably disposed;
a second posterior introducer tube, in which the second posterior component is removably disposed;
a first anterior introducer tube, in which the first anterior component is removably disposed; and
a second anterior introducer tube, in which the second anterior component is removably disposed,
wherein the first posterior introducer tube, the second posterior introducer tube, the first anterior introducer tube, and the second anterior introducer tube are distinct and separate from each other.
Inventive concept 69. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 68, wherein each of the first posterior introducer tube, the second posterior introducer tube, the first anterior introducer tube, and the second anterior introducer tube has an outer diameter of no more than 3 mm.
Inventive concept 70. The apparatus according to any one of Inventive concepts 50-56, further including an introducer system, which includes one or more introducer tubes, in which the first posterior component, the second posterior component, the first anterior component, and the second anterior component are removably disposed at respective axial positions that do not axially overlap with one another.
Inventive concept 71. The apparatus according to Inventive concept 70, wherein each of the one or more introducer tubes has an outer diameter of no more than 3 mm.
There is additionally provided, in accordance with an Inventive concept 72 of the present invention, a method including:
providing an accommodating intraocular lens implant, which is shaped so as to be assemblable into an assembled state in situ in a capsular bag of a human eye so as to have a central optical axis, and which includes (a) a first posterior component, which includes a posterior lens unit, which includes a posterior lens; (b) a second posterior component, which includes a posterior lens rim; (c) a first anterior component, which includes (i) an anterior floating lens unit, which includes an anterior lens; and (ii) levers; and (d) a second anterior component, which includes an anterior rim,
separately inserting each of the first posterior component, the second posterior component, the first anterior component, and the second anterior component into the capsular bag of the human eye and assembling the first posterior component, the second posterior component, the first anterior component, and the second anterior component into the assembled state in situ with one another in the capsular bag.
Inventive concept 73. The method according to Inventive concept 72, wherein separately inserting including:
inserting the first posterior component before or after inserting the second posterior component;
thereafter, inserting the first anterior component; and
thereafter, inserting the second anterior component.
Inventive concept 74. The method according to Inventive concept 72,
wherein the lens implant further includes a circumferential rim, which is attached to the levers such that at least a portion of the circumferential rim is farther from a central optical axis of the lens implant than the second longitudinal sites are from the central optical axis, and
wherein assembling the first posterior component, the second posterior component, the first anterior component, and the second anterior component does not include snapping the circumferential rim into the posterior lens unit.
Inventive concept 75. The method according to Inventive concept 72,
wherein the method further includes providing an introducer system, which includes (a) a first posterior introducer tube, in which the first posterior component is removably disposed; (b) a second posterior introducer tube, in which the second posterior component is removably disposed; (c) a first anterior introducer tube, in which the first anterior component is removably disposed; and (d) a second anterior introducer tube, in which the second anterior component is removably disposed, wherein the first posterior introducer tube, the second posterior introducer tube, the first anterior introducer tube, and the second anterior introducer tube are distinct and separate from each other, and
wherein separately inserting each of the first posterior component, the second posterior component, the first anterior component, and the second anterior component into the capsular bag includes:
wherein the method further includes providing an introducer system, which includes one or more introducer tubes, in which the first posterior component, the second posterior component, the first anterior component, and the second anterior component are removably disposed at respective axial positions that do not axially overlap with one another, and
wherein separately inserting each of the first posterior component, the second posterior component, the first anterior component, and the second anterior component into the capsular bag includes using the one or more introducer tubes to separately insert each of the first posterior component, the second posterior component, the first anterior component, and the second anterior component into the capsular bag.
The present invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, taken together with the drawings, in which:
Reference is still made to
Reference is still made to
For some applications, when lens implant 10 is in the assembled state, such as shown in
Levers 30 are arranged to move anterior floating lens unit 24 toward and away from anterior rim 44, in an anterior-posterior direction. For some applications, lens implant 10 comprises between three and eight levers 30, such as three, four, five, or six levers 30. For some applications, posterior lens unit 50 is bowl-shaped and/or concave and has an inner surface, which may be shaped such that the inner surface limits posterior motion of anterior floating lens unit 24.
For some applications, such as shown in the figures, for each respective lever 30 of levers 30, second longitudinal site 62 is farther from central optical axis 14 than first longitudinal site 60 is from central optical axis 14, and third longitudinal site 64 is farther from central optical axis 14 than second longitudinal site 62 is from central optical axis 14. As is universally known in the art, the distance between a point and an axis is measured along a line perpendicular to the axis extending from the point to the axis. As applied in the present application, including in the claims, all distances to central optical axis 14 are measured perpendicular to central optical axis 14.
Typically, circumferential rim 48 is attached to levers 30 such that at least a portion of (such as the entire, as shown in the figures) circumferential rim 48 is farther from central optical axis 14 than second longitudinal sites 62 are from central optical axis 14.
Reference is still made to
In other words, circumferential rim 48 functions as a spring that provides at least 50% (e.g., at least 70%, such as at least 90%) of the energy storage of lens implant 10 during the transition from the fully-accommodated state to the fully-unaccommodated state. For some applications, lens implant 10 is arranged when in the assembled state such that the elastic potential energy stored in circumferential rim 48 is stored around at least 270 degrees, typically 360 degrees, of circumferential rim 48. This arrangement allows circumferential rim 48 to store a large amount of energy relative to the size of lens implant 10, which generally minimizes the impact of any manufacturing inconsistencies.
As a result of this springiness, the resting state of the lens implant is typically the fully-accommodated state, or, optionally, slightly beyond the fully-accommodated state, such that the lens implant is always pressing the lens capsule open even when the lens implant is fully accommodated, thereby keeping the zonules in tension.
By contrast, PCT Publication WO 2015/198236, which is incorporated herein by reference, describes an accommodative intraocular lens implant 210 with reference to
For some applications, lens implant 10 is arranged when in the assembled state such that at least 50% (e.g., at least 70%, such as at least 90%) of the elastic potential energy stored in lens implant 10 as the result of the deformation is stored in a volume of circumferential rim 48, the volume equal to at least 4 mm3, e.g., at least 7 mm3. Alternatively or additionally, for some applications, lens implant 10 is arranged when in the assembled state such that at least 50% (e.g., at least 70%, such as at least 90%) of the elastic potential energy stored in lens implant 10 as the result of the deformation is stored in a volume of circumferential rim 48, the volume equal to at least 5% (e.g., at least 10%) of a total volume of all solid elements of lens implant 10, excluding empty spaces defined by lens implant 10.
For some applications, lens implant 10 is arranged such that in the assembled state (a) a surface 49 (labeled in
Lens implant 10 is typically arranged when in the assembled state such that less than 10% (e.g., less than 5%, such as none) of the elastic potential energy in aggregate is stored in levers 30 at second longitudinal sites 62, at respective interfaces between levers 30 and anterior rim 44, and in anterior rim 44, in aggregate (i.e., the sum of the elastic potential energy stored in levers 30 at second longitudinal sites 62, at respective interfaces between levers 30 and anterior rim 44, and in anterior rim 44). This relatively low storage of elastic potential energy may be because, in some configurations, levers 30, when lens implant 10 is in the assembled state, are in non-jointed pivotable contact with anterior rim 44 at the respective second longitudinal sites 62 along levers 30, and anterior rim 44 does not materially bend or deform during accommodation of lens implant 10, but instead acts as a generally rigid body. As used in the present application, including in the claims, two elements are in “non-jointed pivotable contact” if the two elements can pivot with respect to each other but are not integrally attached to each other or interlocked with each other; the two elements would thus come apart if not held together by other elements of lens implant 10, by capsular bag 12, by gravity, or by anything else. As used in the present application, including in the claims, two elements are “integrally attached” to each other if they are physically merged together (such as by melting), attached by an adhesive, or fabricated from and remain a single piece; likewise, two elements are “not integral” with one another if they are not integrally attached (for example, if they are simply placed in contact with each other).
Similarly, lens implant 10 is typically arranged when in the assembled state such that less than 10% (e.g., less than 5%, such as none) of the elastic potential energy in aggregate is stored at respective interfaces between levers 30 and posterior lens unit 50, and in posterior lens unit 50, in aggregate (i.e., the sum of the elastic potential energy stored at respective interfaces between levers 30 and posterior lens unit 50, and in posterior lens unit 50). This relatively low storage of elastic potential energy may be because, in some configurations, levers 30, when lens implant 10 is in the assembled state, are in non-jointed pivotable contact with posterior lens unit 50 at the respective third longitudinal sites 64 along levers 30, and posterior lens unit 50 does not materially bend or deform during accommodation of lens implant 10, but instead acts as a generally rigid body.
Typically, lens implant 10 is arranged when in the assembled state such that less of the elastic potential energy in aggregate is stored (a) in levers 30 at second longitudinal sites 62, at respective interfaces between levers 30 and anterior rim 44, and in anterior rim 44, in aggregate than (b) in levers 30 at first longitudinal sites 60, at respective interfaces between levers 30 and anterior floating lens unit 24, and in anterior lens jointed elements 46, in aggregate.
For some applications, levers 30, when lens implant 10 is in the assembled state, are in jointed pivotable connection with anterior floating lens unit 24 at the respective first longitudinal sites 60 along levers 30. As used in the present application, including in the claims, two elements are in “jointed pivotable connection” if the two elements can pivot with respect to each other and are integrally attached to each other or interlocked with each other. For some applications, lens implant 10 further comprises anterior lens jointed elements 46, and levers 30 are in the jointed pivotable connection, at the respective first longitudinal sites 60 along levers 30, with anterior floating lens unit 24 by anterior lens jointed elements 46, respectively. Typically, anterior lens jointed elements 46 provide both rotational and radially flexibility between levers 30 and anterior floating lens unit 24. For some applications, anterior lens jointed elements 46 are oriented within 30 degrees of parallel to central optical axis 14, such as within 15 degrees of parallel, e.g., parallel. For some applications, anterior lens jointed elements 46 have a length of at least 0.5 mm, such as at least 0.9 mm; such relatively long lengths allow the use of a relatively small anterior lens 26, which may help facilitate placement of first anterior component 20 is an introducer tube, such as described hereinbelow with reference to
For some applications, circumferential rim 48 is arranged in pivotable contact, such as in non-jointed pivotable contact, with posterior lens unit 50 when lens implant 10 is in the assembled state, such as shown in
For some applications, one or more portions of the material of lens implant 10 defines both levers 30 and circumferential rim 48, because the portions serve functionally as both levers 30 and circumferential rim 48. Typically, at least for these applications, levers 30 are integral with circumferential rim 48.
For some applications, circumferential rim 48 and posterior lens unit 50 are not shaped to provide a snapping interface therebetween. Not providing a snapping interface generally allows for easier in situ assembly of circumferential rim 48 and posterior lens unit 50, which naturally become assembled because of the constraints of capsular bag 12, with gentle prodding by the surgeon if necessary.
Typically, levers 30 and anterior rim 44 are not shaped to provide a snapping interface therebetween.
For some applications, levers 30 are shaped so as to define respective indentations 81 on respective anterior sides 82 at respective second longitudinal sites 62 (labeled in
For some applications, lens implant 10 is arranged when in the assembled state such that less than 10% (e.g., less than 5%, such as none) of the elastic potential energy in aggregate is stored at one or more interfaces between circumferential rim 48 and posterior lens unit 50, and in posterior lens unit 50, in aggregate (i.e., the sum of the elastic potential energy stored at one or more interfaces between circumferential rim 48 and posterior lens unit 50, and in posterior lens unit 50). This relatively low storage of elastic potential energy may be because, in some configurations, circumferential rim 48 is arranged in non-jointed pivotable contact with posterior lens unit 50 when lens implant 10 is in the assembled state, and posterior lens unit 50 does not materially bend or deform during accommodation of lens implant 10, but instead acts as a generally rigid body, such as described above.
Reference is now made to
Typically, the one or more ledges 70 define one or more respective radially-inward edges 72 (which are typically sharp or curved), and levers 30 are in pivotable contact with the one or more radially-inward edges 72 at the respective third longitudinal sites 64 along levers 30 when lens implant 10 is in the assembled state. For applications in which posterior lens unit 50 is shaped so as to define single ledge 70 that extends around the entire circumference of posterior lens unit 50, the single ledge 70 typically defines exactly one radially-inward edge 72, with which levers 30 are in pivotable contact. For some applications in which circumferential rim 48 is arranged in the pivotable contact with posterior lens unit 50, circumferential rim 48 is in pivotable contact with the one or more radially-inward edges 72. The relative thickness of circumferential rim 48 may allow the circumferential rim to reliably pivot around the one or more radially-inward edges 72.
Typically, posterior lens unit 50 is shaped so as to define a circumferential lip 74 that extends anteriorly beyond the one or more ledges 70, and the one or more ledges 70 project from circumferential lip 74 radially inward toward central optical axis 14. Lip 74 generally helps the surgeon assemble circumferential rim 48 and posterior lens unit 50 in situ, and may also help hold circumferential rim 48 and posterior lens unit 50 together after assembly.
Reference is still made to
Reference is again made to
Alternatively or additionally, for some applications, for each of levers 30:
Reference is made to
Typically, first posterior component 28, second posterior component 22, first anterior component 20, and second anterior component 18 are not integral with one another, and are shaped so as to be assemblable into the assembled state in situ with one another in capsular bag 12 of the human eye.
As described hereinbelow with reference to
Typically, first posterior component 28 comprises exactly one polymeric piece, which is shaped so as to define posterior lens unit 50. Typically, second posterior component 22 comprises exactly one polymeric piece, which is shaped so as to define posterior lens rim 56. Typically, first anterior component 20 comprises exactly one polymeric piece, which is shaped so as to define anterior floating lens unit 24 and levers 30. Typically, second anterior component 18 comprises exactly one polymeric piece, which is shaped so as to define anterior rim 44.
For some applications, posterior lens 52 (or all of first posterior component 28) comprises optical acrylic, which is typically flexible, and may be either hydrophobic or hydrophilic, and may have, for example, a refractive index of 1.54 to 1.56, such as 1.55. For some applications, posterior lens rim 56 (or all of second posterior component 22) and/or anterior rim 44 (or all of second anterior component 18) comprise silicone, typically with a hardness 50-80 Shore A, such as 70-80 Shore A. For some applications, anterior lens 26 (or all of anterior floating lens unit 24) and/or levers 30 (or all of first anterior component 20) comprises optical silicone, typically having a refractive index of 1.43 to 1.46, and/or a hardness of 40-50 Shore A. For some applications, anterior lens 26 has equal front and back radii, e.g., of 6.8 mm, which yields, for example, a total power of 64 diopters. For some applications, anterior lens 26 and posterior lens 52 have similar radii, e.g., between 14 and 15 mm, such as 14.5 mm, which may minimize spacing and/or maximize power change.
Posterior lens unit 50 remains generally motionless with respect to the posterior portion of natural capsular bag 12 of the eye during accommodation of lens implant 10. Lens implant 10 is configured such that anterior floating lens unit 24 moves with respect to posterior lens unit 50 in response to the natural accommodation mechanism of the eye. The natural accommodation mechanism of the eye changes the shape of natural capsular bag 12, as shown in
Anterior rim 44 is disposed such that anterior floating lens unit 24 is movable toward and away from anterior rim 44, in the anterior-posterior direction. As the width (in the anterior-posterior direction) of the capsular bag changes, anterior rim 44 moves with respect to posterior lens unit 50, thereby changing the distance therebetween. Anterior rim 44 typically absorbs substantially all ciliary muscle movement.
As mentioned above, anterior floating lens unit 24 comprises anterior lens 26, and posterior lens unit 50 comprises posterior lens 52. Each of lens units 24 and 50 may comprise one or more additional optical elements, such as additional lenses (e.g., convex lenses, concave lenses, biconvex lenses, biconcave lenses, spherical lenses, aspheric lenses, and/or astigmatic lenses), fixed power optics, deformable optics, aberration free optics, doublets, triplets, filtered optics, or combinations of these lenses, as is known in the optical arts. For some applications, anterior lens 26 is the only optical element of anterior floating lens unit 24, and/or posterior lens 52 is the only optical element of posterior lens unit 50. For some applications, anterior lens 26 comprises a biconvex high diopter lens, and/or posterior lens 52 comprises a diverging lens. For some applications, one or more of lens units 24 and 50 are attached to the implant during manufacture. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the lens units may be attached by a healthcare worker either prior to or during the implantation procedure, such as to provide the lens unit most appropriate for the particular patient.
As used in the present application, including in the claims, a “lever” is a beam that is used to move an object at a first point by a force applied at a second point, and that pivots about a fulcrum at a third point. Typically, for each respective lever 30 of levers 30, second longitudinal site 62 is longitudinally between first longitudinal site 60 and third longitudinal site 64 along the respective lever 30, such that third longitudinal site 64 serves as a fulcrum 66 for respective lever 30. Thus, first longitudinal site 60, second longitudinal site 62, and third longitudinal site 64 correspond with the first, second, and third points, respectively, in the definition above.
Force is applied to second longitudinal site 62 by anterior rim 44, and, as a result, first longitudinal site 60 (and anterior floating lens unit 24) moves more than an anterior-posterior distance that second longitudinal site 62 (and anterior rim 44) moves, typically between 1.5 and 4 times the anterior-posterior distance that second longitudinal site 62 (and anterior rim 44) moves. For some applications, a distance between second and third longitudinal sites 62 and 64 is between 0.8 and 1.6 mm, and a distance between first and third longitudinal sites 60 and 64 is between 1.2 and 2.4 mm, providing a gain of between 1.5 and 4. Typically, second longitudinal sites 62 are disposed radially inward from third longitudinal sites 64, respectively. Typically, first longitudinal sites 60 are disposed radially inward from second longitudinal sites 62 and third longitudinal sites 64, respectively.
Levers 30 are thus configured to magnify the relatively small change in the distance between anterior rim 44 and posterior lens unit 50, in order to move anterior floating lens unit 24 by a greater distance with respect to posterior lens unit 50. In other words, lens implant 10 is configured such that levers 30 move anterior floating lens unit 24 by a first anterior-posterior distance with respect to posterior lens unit 50 when anterior rim 44 moves a second anterior-posterior distance with respect to posterior lens unit 50, which first distance is greater than the second distance. Because of this distance magnification, lens implant 10 provides a high level of accommodation that mimics that of the natural eye. Typically, the first distance is at least 1.4 times the second distance, i.e., the lever provides a gain of at least 1.4. For example, the first distance may be at least 1.5 (e.g., at least 1.8, such as between 1.8 and 3) times the second distance.
The anterior and posterior movement of anterior floating lens unit 24 changes the distance between the anterior and posterior lens units, thereby adjusting the focal length of lens implant 10. In the fully-accommodated state, which provides near vision, lens implant 10 is relatively wide (in the anterior-posterior direction), with a large separation between the anterior and posterior lens units, creating a large free space between the complexes. In the fully-unaccommodated state, which provides distance vision, the implant is relatively narrow, with a small separation between anterior and posterior complexes. Anterior floating lens unit 24 typically shifts at least 1 mm between the fully-unaccommodated and fully-accommodated states. Typical movement of the anterior lens relative to posterior lens 52 is between 0.5 and 2.0 mm, such as between 1 and 1.5 mm, as lens implant 10 transitions between the fully-unaccommodated and fully-accommodated states.
Anterior floating lens unit 24 moves within an interior space of lens implant 10, which is typically open to the natural fluid within the eye. The floating lens unit is configured to create minimum drag during movement, while maintaining the optical performance of the combined lens structure. For example, the floating lens unit may have a smooth shape, and/or may be coated with a hydrophobic coating such as silicone. Typically, the anterior and posterior lens units are configured to together create an optical structure having a total power that varies between +15D and +25D, as selected by the physician implanting lens implant 10.
To minimize posterior capsular opacification (PCO), posterior lens 52 is typically provided with a clearly-defined corner 99 (e.g., having an angle of 80-150 degrees, e.g., 90-120 degrees), at the junction of the posterior and lateral surfaces of posterior lens 52.
(As used in the present application, including in the claims, transitioning between the fully-accommodated and the fully-unaccommodated states is to be understood as meaning making a transition that begins at the fully-accommodated state and continues all the way to the fully-unaccommodated state, or vice versa.)
Reference is now made to
For some applications, introducer system 100 comprises one or more (e.g., all) of the following introducer tubes:
For some applications, first posterior introducer tube 150, second posterior introducer tube 152, first anterior introducer tube 154, and second anterior introducer tube 156 are distinct and separate from each other.
Typically, each of first posterior introducer tube 150, second posterior introducer tube 152, first anterior introducer tube 154, and second anterior introducer tube 156 has an outer diameter of no more than 3 mm, such as no more than 2.5 mm, e.g., no more than 2 mm. This outer diameter allows the introducer tubes to be inserted into the eye through a 2-3 mm incision, such as a 2.2 mm incision. By contrast, implantation of some accommodating intraocular lenses (AIOLs) requires an incision of 4-6 mm, which may cause astigmatism and/or other complications.
Reference is made to
As shown in
As shown in
As shown in
For some applications (configuration not shown), posterior lens rim 56 is introduced into capsular bag 12 folded or rolled, without being removably disposed in an introducer tube.
The scope of the present invention includes performing the steps of the method described with reference to
As shown in
As shown in
For some applications, a single introducer tube is used to introduce all of the components of lens implant 10. Alternatively, for some applications, exactly two introducer tubes are used to introduce all of the components of lens implant 10, i.e., two of the components described above are introduced in a first introducer tube, and the other two components are introduced in a second introducer tube, or three of the components described above are introduced in a first introducer tube, and the other component is introduced in a second introducer tube. Alternatively, for some applications, exactly three introducer tubes are used to introduce all of the components of lens implant 10, i.e., one of the components described above is introduced in a first introducer tube, another one of the components is introduced in a second introducer tube, and the remaining two components are introduced in a third introducer tube. The one or more introducer tubes may have the outer diameters described hereinabove with reference to
Reference is made to
Introducer system 300 further comprises a component-storage container 320, which is configured to store the components of lens implant 10 before delivery to the eye. For some applications, such as shown, component-storage container 320 comprises a magazine 322, similar to magazines used in conventional repeating firearms. For other applications, component-storage container 320 comprises a cylinder, similar to cylinders used in conventional revolvers (firearms) (configuration not shown).
For some applications, component-storage container 320 comprises respective cylindrical cases 330 for each of the components of lens implant 10, and each of the components is removably stored in its case 330 until delivery to the eye. For example, for applications in which lens implant 10 comprises first posterior component 28, second posterior component 22, first anterior component 20, and second anterior component 18, such as described hereinabove with reference to
Reference is made to
For some applications, magazine 322 comprises a spring 350, which is configured to automatically advance cases 330 into introducer tube 310, similar to magazines in conventional magazine-based firearms. Alternatively, cases 330 are manually advanced by the physician implanting lens implant 10.
Alternatively, for some applications, introducer system 300 does not comprise cases 330, and the components of lens implant 10 are stored directly in component-storage container 320, in contact with one another.
For some applications, introducer system 300 further comprises a case-advancement plunger 356, which is configured to advance each of the case 330 currently in introducer tube 310 distally toward distal end 314 of the introducer tube (e.g., optionally slightly past distal end 314), such as shown in
Typically, introducer tube 310 has a sharp distal tip 312. Typically, introducer tube 310 has an outer diameter of no more than 3 mm, such as no more than 2.5 mm, e.g., no more than 2 mm. This outer diameter allows the introducer tube to be inserted into the eye through a 2-3 mm incision, such as a 2.2 mm incision. By contrast, implantation of some accommodating intraocular lenses (AIOLs) requires an incision of 4-6 mm, which may cause astigmatism and/or other complications.
For some applications, posterior lens 52 is inserted into capsular bag 12 after posterior lens rim 56 is released from second posterior introducer tube 152 in capsular bag 12. Alternatively, posterior lens 52 is inserted into capsular bag 12 before posterior lens rim 56 is released from second posterior introducer tube 152 in capsular bag 12.
As appropriate, lens implant 10 may partially or wholly comprise silicone, or lens implant 10 may partially or wholly comprise flexible acrylic. For some applications, a portion of lens implant 10 comprises silicone and another portion of lens implant 10 comprises flexible acrylic (optionally, lens implant 10 consists essentially entirely of silicone and acrylic).
Reference is now made to
Although lens implant 10 has been described herein as being assemblable in situ in the eye, for some application, one or more (e.g., all) of the components of lens implant 10 described herein are assembled before implantation, either during manufacture and/or during the implantation procedure. Alternatively or additionally, for some applications, one or more (e.g., all) of the components of lens implant 10 described herein are fabricated from a single piece of material, e.g., comprising a polymer, such as silicone or acrylic. For example, first posterior component 28 and second posterior component 22 may be fabricated from a single piece of material, while second anterior component 18 and first anterior component 20 may not be integral with the other components, and may be assemblable together with the combined first posterior component 28 and second posterior component 22 in situ in capsular bag 12. Alternatively, for example, first anterior component 20 and second posterior component 22 may be fabricated from a single piece of material, while second anterior component 18 and first posterior component 28 may not be integral with the other components, and may be assemblable together with the combined first anterior component 20 and second posterior component 22 in situ in capsular bag 12.
Although the four-part design of lens implant 10 has been described as being use for an accommodating IOL, the four-part design may also be used in non-accommodating and single lenses as well.
As used in the present application, including in the claims, “axial” means a direction along central optical axis 14 of lens implant 10. As used in the present application, including in the claims, “radial” means in a direction toward or away from central optical axis 14 of lens implant 10. (Although transparent, anterior lens 26 and posterior lens 52 are shaded in the figures for clarity of illustration; the lenses may comprise the same material as some or all the other components of lens implant 10.)
The scope of the present invention includes embodiments described in the following applications and publications, which are assigned to the assignee of the present application and are incorporated herein by reference. In an embodiment, techniques and apparatus described in one or more of the following applications and publications are combined with techniques and apparatus described herein:
It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather, the scope of the present invention includes both combinations and subcombinations of the various features described hereinabove, as well as variations and modifications thereof that are not in the prior art, which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description.
The present application claims priority from and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/393,947, filed Dec. 29, 2016, which is assigned to the assignee of the present application and is incorporated herein by reference.
Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
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PCT/IL2017/051317 | 12/5/2017 | WO | 00 |
Number | Date | Country | |
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Parent | 15393947 | Dec 2016 | US |
Child | 16473331 | US |