Instrument for Subretinal Implantation of an Implant

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a specialized surgical instrument designed for the precise subretinal implantation of medical devices (such as therapeutic membranes or cell constructs) into the human or animal eye. The instrument features a stationary nozzle with a cavity to hold the implant, a piston that pushes the implant through the nozzle, and an actuator for controlled delivery. Additionally, it includes novel design features such as oval cross-sections, pressure equalization openings, and angled dispense tips to minimize trauma and improve surgical visibility. An associated infusion device for maintaining intraocular pressure with minimal risk to the retina is also disclosed.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Treatment of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by implanting regenerative cell or tissue constructs under the retina.
• Precision delivery of retinal prostheses or stem cell therapies to damaged retinal regions.
• Research in animal models requiring subretinal implantation or transplantation of materials.
• Minimally invasive subretinal surgery for various ophthalmological conditions where controlled placement of an implant is necessary.
• Delivery of gene therapy vectors or drug-eluting implants under the retina.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables highly precise and controlled placement of implants under the retina, reducing the risk of damaging sensitive ocular tissue.
• Improves the surgeon’s visibility and allows adjustment of implant positioning during insertion, leading to better surgical outcomes.
• Special nozzle design with pressure equalization avoids unintentional movement of the implant due to intraocular pressure, increasing accuracy.
• Novel infusion needle design reduces trauma to the retina during fluid administration and helps maintain intraocular pressure without damaging the tissue.
• Minimizes mechanical trauma through ergonomic and atraumatic design elements, such as oval sections and beveled openings, enhancing patient safety.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to an instrument for the subretinal insertion of an implant (12) into a human or animal eye. The instrument comprises a holding part (14) for a surgeon to hold the instrument (10), a nozzle (16) having a cavity for accommodating the implant (12) and having a dispenser opening (18) for dispensing the implant (12), a piston (20) for pushing the implant (12) out of the dispenser opening (18) of the nozzle (16), and an actuating device (22) for a surgeon to actuate the piston (20). According to the invention, the nozzle (16) is stationary relative to the holding part (14). The piston (20) can be moved within the nozzle (16) relative to the holding part (14) by means of the actuating device (22), such that the implant (12) is dispensed from the dispenser opening (18) of the nozzle (16).