Optonol Ltd.

Jonathan Ben-Zvi

Ira Yaron

Oded Nissan

A fiber matrix is provided for maintaining space in soft tissue, for example for use in procedures for assisting drainage of aqueous humor from an eye to treat glaucoma. The fiber matrix comprises a plurality of crossing fibers forming a mesh with a plurality of void spaces. The fibers and void spaces are sized and arranged so as to permit passage of fluid through the fiber matrix and to inhibit formation of scar tissue through the fiber matrix. The fibers may comprise a polymeric material, and the fiber matrix may be manufactured by electrospinning. The fibers may comprise a biostable and/or a biodegradable material. In one method of using a fiber matrix, the fiber matrix is positioned under a scleral flap, with at least part of the fiber matrix under the scleral flap.

Method of using a fiber matrix for maintaining space in soft tissues

Devices and procedures for assisting drainage of aqueous humor from the eye are provided. In accordance with some embodiments, an implant sized to fit within the Schlemm's Canal is provided. The implant has a plurality of penetrating members having an unextended position in which the penetrating members lie generally close to the longitudinal axis of the implant and an extended position in which the penetrating members are extended outward. In use, the implant is advanced around at least a substantial portion of the Schlemm's Canal with the penetrating members in the first unextended position. After the implant is positioned within the Schlemm's Canal, the penetrating members are caused to move from the first unextended position to the second extended position, wherein the penetrating members penetrate the wall of the Schlemm's Canal. This creates fluid passageways in the wall of the Schlemm's Canal. The implant can also serve to keep the Schlemm's Canal open. A delivery device is also provided for implanting an implant into the Schlemm's Canal.

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Qiriat-Tivon, Israel

Jonathan Ben-Zvi