Methods and apparatus for delivery of ocular implants
An apparatus and methods for delivering ocular implants or microimplants. The apparatus is ergonomically designed for ease of use, and a simple manual depression of an actuator produces proportional movement of a linkage causing the implant or microimplant to be ejected through a cannula disposed at the desired location in the eye. Small gauge cannulas are provided for self-sealing methods of delivery.
1. An apparatus for implanting an ocular implant at a location in a patient's eye comprising:
a cannula having a lumen extending therethrough configured to receive an ocular implant; and
means for retaining an implant received within the cannula lumen to minimize inadvertent release of the implant from the cannula wherein the retention means comprises a frictional stop which extends into the cannula lumen for contacting an implant received therein, wherein the frictional stop comprises an O-ring, at least a portion of which extends into the cannula lumen for contacting an implant received therein, wherein the cannula includes a notch, the notch providing for communication between the cannula lumen and cannula exterior, and wherein the O-ring is positioned around the cannula and where a portion of the O-ring is received in the notch and extends into the cannula lumen.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the cannula includes a notch, the notch providing for communication between the cannula lumen and cannula exterior, and wherein the frictional stop comprises tubing positioned around the cannula and where a portion of the tubing is received in the notch and extends into the lumen.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the frictional stop comprises a spring mechanism.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the frictional stop is integral to the cannula.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the retention means comprises a biocompatible adhesive for adhering the implant to the lumen.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the retention means comprises a frictional coating applied to the cannula lumen.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the retention means comprises a breakable membrane deployed within the cannula lumen.