Ocular implant with shape change capabilities
View Patent ↗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 be reversibly deformed to a first shape, such as a generally linear shape conducive to insertion. Upon insertion, the implant can deform to a second shape, such as a generally non-linear shape conducive to retention within the eye. The shape also improves fluid flow from the anterior chamber and prevents or reduces clogging.
1. A system for treating an ocular disorder in a patient, comprising:
an elongate member defining a flow pathway, at least one inflow port communicating with the flow pathway, and an outflow port communicating with the flow pathway, wherein the elongate member includes a first, proximal portion formed of a non-expandable, solid tube overlayed with a spring-loaded, braided, expandable material structure and a second, distal portion formed entirely of the spring-loaded, braided, expandable material structure, which is configured to form a first length and a first outer diameter when in tension and form a second length and a second outer diameter upon release of tension, wherein the first length is longer than the second length and the first outer diameter is smaller than the second outer diameter, the braided, expandable material structure including a distal end secured by a solid bullet-nose structure, wherein the elongate member is configured to be implanted through a self-sealing corneal incision and positioned in the eye such that the inflow port communicates with the anterior chamber and the outflow port communicates with the suprachoroidal space and wherein the distal portion has one or more openings that expand in size when the distal portion changes shape; and
a delivery device having a delivery component that removably attaches to the elongate member, wherein the delivery component is configured to secure the second, distal portion of the elongate member in an unexpanded state during delivery of the elongate member into an eye, and wherein the delivery component secures to the elongate member via a press fit,
wherein the delivery component is a wire that applies a distally-directed force against the solid bullet-nose structure of the distal portion of the elongate member while the elongate member is mounted on the wire.
2. A system as in claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the second distal portion is configured to be secured in an unexpanded state during delivery of the elongate member into an eye.
3. A system as in claim 2 , wherein the delivery component is further comprised of a sheath to constrain at least a portion of the implant.
4. A system as in claim 2 , wherein the delivery component is configured to plastically expand the implant to a second shape after delivery into an eye.
5. A system as in claim 2 , wherein the delivery component is configured to deliver a fluid medium to plastically expand the second distal portion.
6. A system as in claim 2 , wherein the delivery device is configured to impart an axial force on the implant to plastically expand the second distal portion.
7. A system as in claim 1 , wherein the braided, expandable material structure is a mesh.