Abstract:
The present invention is directed to a storage apparatus for a surgical implant device that protects the integrity of a surgical implant device during transport, provides protection of the surgical implant device prior to the use of the device in surgery, and facilitates the handling of the surgical implant device by the operator.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS  
       [0001]    This non-provisional application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/424,283 filed on Nov. 6, 2002. 
     
    
     
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
         [0002]    1. Field of the Invention  
           [0003]    The present invention is generally directed to a storage apparatus for a surgical device, and more specifically to an apparatus for storing a very small ophthalmic surgical implant device during shipment and prior to the use of the surgical implant device in surgery.  
           [0004]    2. Background Art  
           [0005]    Currently, there is no useful packaging in which to both safely transport a small surgical implant device and to facilitate handling of the surgical implant device during surgery. U.S. Pat. No. 6,221,078 to Bylsma et al. describes an apparatus for use in surgery to introduce a glaucoma drain into the eye. The apparatus comprises a tool with which to make a small wound in the eye. Following the creation of the wound, a glaucoma drain is loaded in the distal end of the apparatus and introduced into the wound by a plunger within the apparatus. Although this apparatus may be useful for delivery of a glaucoma drain, it would not be sufficient or practical for the safe transport, storage, or easy handling of the drain.  
           [0006]    In PCT Publication No. US99/03592, Tormala et al. describe a packaging component for larger surgical implant devices such as pins, screws, tacks, nails, bolts, arrows, and plates. The packaging comprises a three dimensional mounting with perforations to removably receive the surgical implant. The packaging is useful for the transportation and storage of these surgical implant devices prior to and during surgery. Such a packaging would not be appropriate for smaller surgical implant devices such as a glaucoma shunt device.  
           [0007]    What is needed in the art is a storage apparatus for a very small surgical implant device that protects the implant during shipping and which facilitates presentation and handling of the implant by medical staff during a procedure.  
         SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
         [0008]    The present invention is directed to a novel storage apparatus for a surgical implant device that protects the integrity of the surgical implant device during transport. The apparatus of the present invention also provides protection of the surgical implant device and maintains the implant device in a preferred configuration prior to the use of the device in surgery. The storage apparatus of the present invention further facilitates the presentation and handling of the surgical implant device by the operator. 
       
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0009]    [0009]FIG. 1A is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0010]    [0010]FIG. 1B is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention engaged with a bi-directional glaucoma shunt device.  
         [0011]    [0011]FIG. 1C is an illustration showing a cross sectional view of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0012]    [0012]FIG. 2 is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of the elongated barrel of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0013]    [0013]FIG. 3 is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of the elongated plunger of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0014]    [0014]FIG. 4 is an illustration showing a close-up view of the retaining mounts of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0015]    [0015]FIG. 5 is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention, engaged with a bi-directional glaucoma shunt device.  
         [0016]    [0016]FIG. 6 is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0017]    [0017]FIG. 7 is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of the distal end of one embodiment of the present invention, engaged with a bi-directional glaucoma shunt device.  
         [0018]    [0018]FIG. 8A is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention, engaged with a bi-directional glaucoma shunt device.  
         [0019]    [0019]FIG. 8B is an illustration showing a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0020]    [0020]FIG. 9A is an illustration showing a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the present invention, engaged with a bi-directional glaucoma shunt device.  
         [0021]    [0021]FIG. 9B is an illustration showing a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the present invention in the delivery position.  
         [0022]    [0022]FIG. 10A is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0023]    [0023]FIG. 10B is an illustration showing a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0024]    [0024]FIG. 11 is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0025]    [0025]FIG. 12 is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0026]    [0026]FIG. 13A is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention in the closed position.  
         [0027]    [0027]FIG. 13B is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention in the open position.  
         [0028]    [0028]FIG. 14A is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0029]    [0029]FIG. 14B is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0030]    [0030]FIG. 14C is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of the main body portion of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0031]    [0031]FIG. 15A is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0032]    [0032]FIG. 15B is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention in the delivery position.  
         [0033]    [0033]FIG. 16A is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0034]    [0034]FIG. 16B is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention in the delivery position.  
         [0035]    [0035]FIG. 17A is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0036]    [0036]FIG. 17B is an illustration showing the overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
       [0037]    The present invention provides embodiments of a novel apparatus for storing a surgical implant device. In this embodiment, the storage apparatus comprises a base with a recessed surgical retaining mount and a cover which releasably engages the base. The device stored in this embodiment is a bi-direction shunt for use in diverting aqueous humor in the eye. The device of this embodiment uses two surgical implant retaining mounts. The surgical implant retaining mounts are continuous over the shape of the surgical implant device. The base of this embodiment has in addition to the surgical implant retaining mounts an access area adjacent to the recessed retaining mounts which aid in removal of the surgical implant device. The surgical implant device retaining mounts of this embodiment are, for example, at an angle of between about 10° and 150° from one another. In a more preferred form, the angel of the surgical implant device retaining mounts are at an angle of between about 30° and 120° from one another. Even more preferred, is the angle of the surgical implant device retaining mounts of between about 45° and 90° from one another. The surgical implant device retaining mounts of this embodiment are about 0.1 to 2.0 mm in diameter.  
         [0038]    In another embodiment, the storage apparatus comprises an elongated barrel, an elongated plunger having recessed surgical implant device retaining mounts, and a nosepiece. The elongated barrel of one embodiment of the storage apparatus comprises a proximal end with a port, a narrower distal end with a port and a diameter transition portion therebetween. The elongated plunger of one embodiment of the storage apparatus consists of a proximal end, a distal end for movable insertion within the narrower distal port of the outer barrel, and a shaft therebetween for insertion within the proximal port of the barrel. The distal end of the plunger further comprises at least one recessed retaining mount for a surgical implant device. The nosepiece of the storage apparatus is configured to releasably engage the distal portion of the outer barrel, and functions as a protective cap. The releasable nosepiece, or cap, can releasably engage the outer barrel by frictionally retention or reciprocal screw threads, for example.  
         [0039]    In another embodiment, the storage apparatus further comprises a biasing means. In a relaxed position, the biasing means maintains the distal end of the plunger within the distal end of the barrel, protecting a surgical implant device mounted in the retaining mounts on the distal end of the plunger. When force is applied to the biasing means, the plunger extends distally beyond the distal port of the outer barrel, exposing the surgical implant device in the retaining mounts. In still another embodiment, the biasing means is a coil spring attached at one end to the shaft of the plunger and at another end to the diameter transition portion of the barrel. The biasing means can be mounted in other positions on the apparatus and selected from any variety of such implements known in the art, such as springs elastic bands and the like.  
         [0040]    In another embodiment of the present invention, the proximal portion of the barrel has an outer rim extending therefrom for gripping with an operator&#39;s fingers. In yet another embodiment, the proximal portion of the plunger has an outer rim extending therefrom for pushing with an operator&#39;s thumb. In another embodiment of the present invention, the shaft of the plunger is prevented from moving within the narrower distal end of the barrel by abutting the diameter transition portion.  
         [0041]    In another embodiment of the present invention, the elongated barrel comprises polycarbonate material. The proximal end and shaft of the elongated plunger of this embodiment comprise polycarbonate material, and the distal end comprises silicone rubber. The nosepiece of this embodiment comprises polyethylene and may further comprise an elastimer additive.  
         [0042]    In an alternative embodiment, the invention provides an apparatus for storing a surgical implant device, wherein the apparatus comprises a base comprising at least one recessed surgical device retaining mount and a cover configured to releasably engage the base. In this embodiment, there are no reciprocating plunger and barrel features, and the implant device is stored and presented on the base, while the cover protects the implant device during storage.  
         [0043]    In certain embodiments of the present invention, the storage apparatus contains at least one surgical implant device retaining mount recessed into the base or distal end of the plunger. In another embodiment, the storage apparatus comprises two surgical implant device retaining mounts recessed into the base or distal end of the plunger at an angle of between about 10° and 150° from one another. More preferably, the angle between the surgical implant device retaining mounts is between about 30° and 120° from one another. Even more preferably, the angle between the surgical implant device retaining mounts is between about 45° and 90° from one another. In one embodiment, the angle between the surgical implant device retaining mounts is about 800 from one another. The angled retaining mounts assist the surgical implant device in maintaining a preferred configuration for surgical implantation.  
         [0044]    In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a surgical implant device is mounted in the distal end of the elongated plunger. The surgical implant device is fully enclosed within the barrel and nosepiece when in a storage position and may be at least partially exposed through the distal port of the barrel by removing the nosepiece and moving the plunger distally.  
         [0045]    The present invention can be used in conjunction with a surgical implant device, such as a bi-directional shunt device described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,450,984, incorporated by reference herein in its entirety, used to divert aqueous humor in the eye from the anterior chamber into Schlemm&#39;s canal. Such a device comprises a distal portion having at least one terminal aspect sized and shaped to be circumferentially received within a portion of Schlemm&#39;s canal, and a proximal portion having at least one terminal aspect sized and shaped to be received within the anterior chamber of the eye, wherein the device permits fluid communication between the proximal portion in the anterior chamber to the distal portion in Schlemm&#39;s canal. Such a device, for example, can have a distal portion of between about 1 and 40 mm in length. The diameter of the distal portion, for example, can be between about 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm.  
         [0046]    During transport and storage, the distal portion of this shunt device would be held stationary by the retaining mounts of the present invention. The shunt device is fully enclosed within the barrel and nosepiece when in a storage position. Therefore, the retaining mounts of the apparatus of the present invention are preferably sized and shaped so as to accommodate the ophthalmic implant device described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,450,984. For example, the retaining mounts of the apparatus of the present invention can be between about 1 mm to 40 mm in depth, more preferably between about 2 mm to 20 mm in depth. The retaining mounts of the apparatus of the present invention can be between about 0.1 to 2.0 mm in diameter, more preferably between about 0.2 mm and 1.0 mm in diameter, and more preferably between about 0.3 mm and 0.5 mm in diameter. In one embodiment, the retaining mounts of the apparatus are about 0.38 mm in diameter.  
         [0047]    During surgery, the shunt device is at least partially exposed by removing the nosepiece, enabling the safe and efficient handling by the operator. In certain embodiments, the shunt device is at least partially exposed through the distal port of the barrel by removing the nosepiece and moving the plunger distally, enabling the safe and efficient handling by the operator.  
         [0048]    In another embodiment, the invention provides an apparatus for storing a surgical implant device, wherein the apparatus comprises at least one mandrel configured to releasably engage a pore of a surgical implant device, such as the fluid communication channel of the distal portion(s) of a shunt. In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a means to remove the surgical device implant from the mandrel, and release the surgical device onto the eye, such as a telescoping sleeve around the outside of the mandrel. The diameter of the mandrel is approximately the diameter of the pore of the surgical implant device, or alternatively, the mandrel is tapered, so that the mandrel inserts into the pore of the surgical implant device to a position where the device is held firmly by the mandrel.  
         [0049]    In another embodiment, the invention provides for an apparatus for storing a surgical implant device, wherein the apparatus comprises an elongated substantially tubular member having distal and proximal ends. Preferably each end of the tubular member contains a port, wherein the tubular member further comprises a lumen extending between the proximal end and distal end. The embodiment preferably further comprises an elongated plunger having a proximal end, a distal end for movable insertion within the distal port of the tubular member, and a shaft therebetween for insertion of the plunger within the proximal port of the tubular member. The apparatus provides that a surgical implant device can be located within the lumen at the distal end of the tubular member. In a preferred embodiment, the surgical implant device is fully enclosed within the lumen of the tubular member when in a storage position, and the surgical implant device is at least partially exposed through the distal port of the elongated substantially tubular member by moving the plunger distally when in a delivery position.  
         [0050]    Another embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus for storing a surgical implant device, wherein the apparatus comprises an elongated substantially tubular member having distal and proximal ends. Preferably each end of the tubular member contains a port, wherein the tubular member further comprises a lumen extending between the proximal end and distal end. The embodiment preferably further comprises a plurality of articulated members comprising a grasping element located at the distal end of the tubular member, wherein the grasping element comprises a tension means for holding a surgical implant device within the tubular member. In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of articulated members are connected to the distal end of a shaft wherein the shaft extends to the proximal end of the tubular member. In a further preferred embodiment, the invention comprises a manual actuation means located at the proximal end of the shaft for releasing the tension means of the grasping element. In a preferred embodiment, the surgical implant device is fully enclosed within the lumen of the elongated substantially tubular member when in a storage position, and the surgical implant device is at least partially exposed through the distal port of the elongated substantially tubular member by moving the shaft distally by using the manual actuation means to release the tension means of the grasping element when in a delivery position. In a further preferred embodiment, the manual actuation means allows removal of the surgical implant.  
         [0051]    Another embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus for storing a surgical implant device, wherein the apparatus comprises a substantially planar mounting surface comprising a plurality of a securing pins for supporting a surgical implant device, wherein the surface is releasably enclosed within a carriage. In a preferred embodiment, the surface of the apparatus comprises three securing pins. In a further preferred embodiment, a securing pin comprises a peg hook. Preferably, a carriage comprises a substantially planar covering surface, a plurality of side surfaces, and a pair of engagement members for slidably engaging the substantially planar covering across the planar counting surface to protect the surgical implant. In one embodiment, one of the side surfaces further comprises a stop member. In a further embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a handle attached to the carriage.  
         [0052]    Another embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus for storing a surgical implant device, wherein the apparatus comprises an elongated substantially tubular member having distal and proximal ends, each end containing a port, wherein the elongated tubular member further comprises a lumen extending between the proximal end and distal end. Preferably, the apparatus further comprises an elongate main body portion having distal and proximal ends, the distal end for movable insertion within the distal port of the tubular member. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a unitary substantially clam shell-shaped engagement device adapted to releasably engage the surgical implant device and including a pair of ends defining an opening therebetween, a mid-portion secured to the distal end of the elongate main body portion and an interior region defining a size corresponding to at least the width of the surgical implant device, wherein the mid-portion is secured to the elongate main body portion by a hinge portion. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the surgical implant device is fully enclosed within the interior portion of the clam shell-shaped engagement device, which is in turn enclosed within the lumen of the elongated substantially tubular member when in a storage position. Preferably, moving the elongate main body portion distally at least partially exposes the clam shell-shaped engagement device, and releases the hinge portion to at least partially expose the surgical implant device when in a delivery position.  
         [0053]    Another embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus for storing a surgical implant device, wherein the apparatus comprises an elongated substantially tubular member having distal and proximal ends, each end containing a port, wherein the elongated tubular member further comprises a lumen extending between the proximal end and distal end. The apparatus preferably further comprises an elongate main body portion having distal and proximal ends, the distal end for movable insertion within the distal port of the tubular member; and an engagement device adapted to releasably engage the surgical implant device wherein the engagement device comprises a plurality of jaws, where each jaw comprises a distal end, a proximal end secured to the distal end of the elongate main body portion by a hinge portion, and wherein the plurality of jaws circumscribe an interior region defining a size corresponding to at least the width of the surgical implant device. In a preferred embodiment, the surgical implant device is fully enclosed within the interior portion of the engagement device, which is in turn enclosed within the lumen of the elongated substantially tubular member when in a storage position. In a further preferred embodiment, the engagement device is at least partially exposed through the distal port of the elongated substantially tubular member and releases the hinge portion to at least partially expose the surgical implant device by moving the elongate main body portion distally when in a delivery position.  
         [0054]    Another embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus for storing a surgical implant device, wherein the apparatus comprises an elongated substantially tubular member having distal and proximal ends, each end containing a port, wherein the elongated tubular member further comprises a lumen extending between the proximal end and distal end. The apparatus preferably further comprises an elongated main body portion having distal and proximal ends, the distal end for movable insertion within the distal port of the tubular member; and an articulable container adapted to releasably engage the surgical implant device, wherein the articulable container comprises a multi-plane surface and a transverse surface. In a preferred embodiment, the multi-plane surface comprises an upper surface, a plurality of hinge lines, and a plurality of lower surfaces. In a further preferred embodiment, the multi-plane surface and the transverse surface surround an interior region defining a size corresponding to at least the width of the surgical implant device, and the transverse surface is attached to the distal end of the elongate main body portion. In a preferred embodiment, the surgical implant device is fully enclosed within the interior region of the articulable container, which is in turn enclosed within the lumen of the elongated substantially tubular member when in a storage position. In a further preferred embodiment, the articulable container is at least partially exposed through the distal port of the elongated substantially tubular member, and releases the plurality of hinge lines to at least partially expose the surgical implant device by moving the elongate main body portion distally when in a delivery position.  
         [0055]    Another embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus for storing a surgical implant device, wherein the apparatus comprises a substantially planar stage portion, wherein the stage portion has an external key opening; and an elongated substantially tubular member at least partially located within the stage portion, wherein the tubular member rotates within the stage portion of the apparatus, and wherein the tubular member has an internal key opening located in the midportion of the tubular member. In a preferred embodiment, the tubular member has an interior region comprising an engagement means for holding the surgical implant device, wherein the engagement means comprises a surface adapted to releasably engage the surgical implant device; and the apparatus comprises an positioning means for aligning the internal key opening of the tubular member with the external key opening of the stage portion when the tubular member is rotated within the stage portion. In a preferred embodiment, upon the alignment of the positioning means, the surgical implant device is exposed through the internal key opening and the external key opening of the apparatus.  
         [0056]    Another embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus for storing a surgical implant device, wherein the apparatus comprises a top portion comprising an outer surface and an inner surface, the inner surface adapted to releasably engage the surgical implant device, and the outer surface having a convex portion for pushing with an operator&#39;s thumb. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a bottom portion comprising an outer surface and a substantially horizontal inner surface. Preferably, an interior region of the apparatus is defined by the inner surface of the top portion and the inner surface of the bottom portion. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus further comprises an engagement means, wherein the engagement means comprises one or more receiving portions and one or more corresponding engagement members for slideably engaging the receiving portions. The one or more receiving portions can be located on the top portion and the one or more corresponding engagement members can be located on the bottom portion or alternatively, the one or more receiving portions can be located on the bottom portion and the one or more corresponding engagement members can be located on the top portion. In a preferred embodiment, upon the sliding of the engagement means, the surgical implant device is exposed through the inner surface of the top portion of the apparatus when in a delivery position.  
         [0057]    Another embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus for storing a surgical implant device, wherein the apparatus comprises an elongated substantially tubular member having distal and proximal ends, the proximal end containing a port, wherein the elongated tubular member further comprises a lumen extending between the proximal end and distal end, and wherein the tubular member has an external key opening located distally. Preferably, the apparatus further comprises an elongated main body portion having distal and proximal ends, the distal end for movable insertion within the proximal port of the tubular member, and wherein the distal end comprises a engagement means for holding the surgical implant device comprising a substantially horizontal surface adapted to releasably engage the surgical implant device. In a further embodiment, at least one end of the tubular member and the corresponding end of the elongate main body portion includes a positioning means for aligning the tubular member with the elongate main body portion when the elongate main body portion is rotated within the tubular member. Preferably, when the positioning means is aligned, the main body portion is moved distally to expose the surgical implant device through the external key opening of the tubular member.  
         [0058]    Another embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus for storing a surgical implant device, wherein the apparatus comprises a top portion comprising a substantially planar surface, having an external key opening, and comprises a bottom portion comprising a substantially planar surface, wherein the planar surface of the bottom portion has a interior region comprising an engagement means for holding the surgical implant device. Preferably, the engagement means comprises a surface adapted to releasably engage the surgical implant device. In a further preferred embodiment, the apparatus comprises a rotatable engagement means for attaching the top portion to the bottom portion, wherein the engagement means comprises a receiving portion and an engagement member for rotatably engaging the receiving portion, wherein rotating the engagement means exposes the surgical implant device contained within the interior region through the external key opening of the top portion of the apparatus. In a preferred embodiment, the top portion and the bottom portion further comprise a side portion, wherein the side portions are located on opposite sides of the apparatus, and function as an alignment means for the apparatus.  
         [0059]    Another embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus for storing a surgical implant device, wherein the apparatus comprises a bottom portion comprising a substantially circular planar surface having an external key opening; a top portion comprising a parallel substantially circular planar surface; and a middle portion comprising a parallel substantially circular planar surface, wherein at least part of the middle portion extends beyond the top portion and the bottom portion, and wherein the middle portion has one or more engagement means for holding the surgical implant device, wherein the engagement means comprises an interior region adapted to releasably engage the surgical implant device. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a rotatable engagement means for attaching the top portion, bottom portion, and middle portion, wherein rotating the engagement means exposes the surgical implant device contained within the interior region of the middle portion through the external key opening of the bottom portion of the apparatus for removal of the surgical implant device.  
         [0060]    Another embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus for storing a surgical implant device, wherein the apparatus comprises a base and a cover releasably attached to the base. The base has as a retaining mount a recessed portion shaped similarly to the surgical implant device being stored therein. The size of this recessed portion is such that the surgical implant device fits snugly yet allows the surgical implant device to be removed without damaging the device. This recessed portion, or securing means, may be in the form of securing mounts, clips, latches, ties, binders, pinchers, fasteners, or any other means to releaseably attach and detach a surgical implant device. The securing mounts, for example, may be branched with an angle between the elements of the surgical implant device retaining mounts of between about 10° and  150 ° from one another. More preferably, the angle between the surgical implant device retaining mounts is between about 30° and 120° from one another. Even more preferably, the angle between the surgical implant device retaining mounts is between about 45° and 90° from one another. In one embodiment, the angle between the surgical implant device retaining mounts is about 80° from one another. The further recessed portion of the base contains at least one additional access area which increases the ease of removal of the surgical implant device from the base. The size of the access area which aids in removal of the surgical implant device can vary depending on how the device needs to be handled once removed. If the device is to be handled with forceps or other surgical pick-up devices, then the access area to aid in that removal may be smaller than if the surgical implant device is to be handled manually. The base portion can be equipped with fastening slots to engage reciprocating tabs extending from the cover to close or lock down the cover.  
         [0061]    One embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 1A, in which the storage apparatus  100  is shown in an overhead perspective view. The storage apparatus  100  of this embodiment comprises an elongated barrel  10 , an elongated plunger  50 , and a nosepiece  80 . FIG. 1B illustrates this embodiment in which the storage apparatus  100  is shown in an overhead perspective view, engaged with a shunt device  90  used in the treatment of glaucoma. FIG. 1C illustrates this embodiment in which the storage apparatus  100  is shown in a cross sectional view. The storage apparatus  100  of this embodiment further comprises a coil spring  85  that is attached at one end to the shaft  65  of the plunger  50  and at the other end to the diameter transition portion  30  of the elongated barrel  10 .  
         [0062]    The elongated barrel  10  of one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 2, in which the elongated barrel  10  is shown in an overhead perspective view. The elongated barrel  10  further comprises a proximal end  15 , a distal end  40 , and a diameter transition portion  30  therebetween. The proximal end  15  of the elongated barrel  10  of this embodiment comprises a port  20  and an outer rim  25 . The outer rim  25  of the barrel  10  of this embodiment extends from the barrel  10  and is of appropriate size to be gripped by the operator&#39;s fingers.  
         [0063]    The elongated plunger  50  of one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 3, in which the elongated plunger  50  is shown in an overhead perspective view. The elongated plunger  50  further comprises a proximal end  55 , a distal end  75 , and a shaft  65  therebetween. The proximal end  55  of the elongated plunger  50  of this embodiment comprises an outer rim  60  that extends from the plunger  50  and is of appropriate size to be pushed by the operator&#39;s thumb. The distal end  75  of the elongated plunger  50  of this embodiment comprises at least one retaining mount  70 .  
         [0064]    [0064]FIG. 4 illustrates a close-up view of the distal end  75  of the elongated plunger  50  of one embodiment of the present invention which comprises two retaining mounts  70 . The retaining mounts  70  of this embodiment of the storage apparatus  100  are recessed into the distal end  75  of the plunger  50  at an angle of approximately  800  from one another.  
         [0065]    [0065]FIG. 5 illustrates an overhead perspective view of one embodiment of the invention. The storage apparatus  200  comprises at least one mandrel  110 . The mandrel engages the fluid communication channel  120  of the distal portion(s)  130  of a shunt device  140  used to treat glaucoma. A telescoping sleeve  150  around the outside of the mandrel is shown as an example of a means to remove the shunt device  140  from the mandrel  110  and release the shunt device onto the eye.  
         [0066]    [0066]FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment of the invention in an overhead view. The storage apparatus  300  comprises an elongated substantially tubular member  210  having a distal  225  and proximal end  230 , each end containing a port. The distal port  235  and proximal port  240  of the tubular member are shown. The distal end  245  of a plunger  250  is inserted within the proximal port  240  of the tubular member  210 . The proximal end  255  of the plunger  250  extends from the proximal port  240  of the tubular member  210 . The distal port  235  of the tubular member  210  is engaged with a shunt device  260  used in the treatment of glaucoma.  
         [0067]    The storage apparatus  400  of another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 7, in which the tubular member  310  is shown in an overhead view. The distal end  335  of the tubular member  310  is shown. The apparatus further comprises a plurality of articulated members  350  located at the distal end  335  of the tubular member  310 . A shunt device  360  used in the treatment of glaucoma is shown engaged within the articulated members. The articulated members  350  are connected to the distal end of a shaft  370  extending into the distal end  335  of the tubular member  310 .  
         [0068]    [0068]FIG. 8A illustrates an overhead view of another embodiment storage apparatus  500  of the present invention. The apparatus  500  comprises a substantially planar mounting surface  510  comprising a plurality of a securing pins  520  for supporting a shunt device  560  used in the treatment of glaucoma. FIG. 8B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the carriage  530  for enclosing the planar mounting surface shown in FIG. 8A. The carriage comprises a substantially planar covering surface  535 , a plurality of side surfaces  540 , and a pair of engagement members  545 .  
         [0069]    [0069]FIG. 9A illustrates a longitudinal view of another storage apparatus embodiment. The apparatus  570  comprises an elongated substantially tubular member  575 . The distal end  580  of the tubular member  575  is shown. The elongate main body portion  585  having a distal end  590 , is shown within the lumen  595  of the tubular member  575 . The apparatus further comprises a unitary substantially clam shell-shaped engagement device  600 , which includes a pair of ends  605 , a mid-portion  610  secured to the distal end  590  of the elongate main body portion, and an interior region  615 . The mid-portion  610  is secured to the elongate main body portion  585  by a hinge portion  620 . A shunt device  612  used in the treatment of glaucoma is shown engaged within the interior region  615  of the clam shell-shaped engagement device  600 . FIG. 9B illustrates a longitudinal view of the apparatus. The elongate main body portion  585  has moved distally, and the clam shell-shaped engagement device  600  is at least partially exposed past the distal end  580  of the tubular member  575 .  
         [0070]    The engagement device  625  of another embodiment is shown in an overhead view in FIG. 10A. The engagement device comprises a plurality of jaws  628 . FIG. 10B illustrates an longitudinal view of the storage apparatus  635  comprising the engagement device. The storage apparatus  635  comprises a tubular member  630 . The distal end  640  of the tubular member  630  is shown. An elongate main body portion  645  having a distal end  650  is located within the tubular member  630 . The engagement device is attached to the distal end  650  of the main body portion  645  by a hinge portion  665 . Each jaw  630  of the engagement device comprises a distal end  655 , and a proximal end  660 .  
         [0071]    [0071]FIG. 11 illustrates an overhead view of another storage apparatus. The apparatus comprises a main body portion  670 , attached at its distal end  675  to an articulable container  680 . The articulable container  680  comprises a multi-plane surface  685 , and a transverse surface  690 . The multi-plane surface  685  comprises an upper surface  695 , a plurality of hinge lines  700 , and a plurality of lower surfaces  705 .  
         [0072]    [0072]FIG. 12 illustrates an overhead view of another storage apparatus  710 . The storage apparatus comprises a substantially planar stage portion  715 ; and an elongated substantially tubular member  720  at least partially located within the stage portion. The tubular member  720  rotates within the stage portion  715  of the apparatus.  
         [0073]    [0073]FIG. 13A illustrates an overhead view of another storage apparatus  730  in the closed position. The apparatus comprises a top portion  735 , where the outer surface  740  is shown. The outer surface  740  has a convex portion  745  for pushing with an operator&#39;s thumb. The apparatus further comprises a bottom portion  750 , where the outer surface is shown. FIG. 13B illustrates an overhead view of the storage apparatus in the open position. By pushing on the convex portion  745 , the apparatus opens, exposing the inner surface  755  of the top portion  735  and the shunt device  760  used in the treatment of glaucoma stored within the storage apparatus.  
         [0074]    [0074]FIG. 14A illustrates an overhead view of a storage apparatus  770 . The storage apparatus comprises a tubular member  775  having distal  780  and proximal  785  ends. The tubular member  775  has an external key opening  790  located distally. The apparatus further comprises a main body portion  795 , with its proximal end  800  indicated. The proximal end  800  rotates and inserts within the proximal end  785  of the tubular member. FIG. 14B illustrates an overhead view of the apparatus, showing that after the main body portion is rotated within the tubular member and aligned, the main body portion is inserted distally within the tubular member to expose the shunt device through the external key opening  790 . FIG. 14C illustrates an overhead view of the main body portion  795 , showing the engagement means  805  located at the distal end of the main body portion  795  for holding a shunt device  810  used in the treatment of glaucoma.  
         [0075]    [0075]FIG. 15A illustrates an overhead view of a storage apparatus  820 . The apparatus comprises a top portion  825  comprising a substantially planar surface  830 , having an external key opening  835 . The apparatus further comprises a bottom portion  840  comprising a substantially planar surface  845 . FIG. 15B illustrates an overhead view of the storage apparatus in the delivery position, showing that when the top portion and bottom portion are rotated, the shunt device  850  used in the treatment of glaucoma is exposed through the external key opening  835  of the top portion. Both the top portion  825  and the bottom portion  840  further comprise a side portion  855  located on opposite sides of the apparatus, which function as an alignment means for the apparatus.  
         [0076]    [0076]FIG. 16A illustrates an overhead view of a storage apparatus  870 . The apparatus comprises a bottom substantially circular planar surface  875 ; a top parallel substantially circular planar surface  880 ; and a middle parallel substantially circular planar surface  885 . FIG. 16B illustrates an overhead view of the storage apparatus showing that at least part of the middle planar surface  885  extends beyond the top portion and the bottom portion. When the middle planar surface  885  is rotated, the shunt device  895  used in the treatment of glaucoma contained within the middle portion is exposed through the external key opening  900  of the bottom planar surface  875 .  
         [0077]    [0077]FIG. 17A illustrates an overhead view of a storage apparatus  1000 . The apparatus comprises a planar base  910  with a recessed portion  920  therein. Within the recessed portion  920  there is at least one further recessed surgical implant device securing means  930 . As shown in FIG. 17A, there can be two recessed surgical implant device securing means which are continuous about the shape of the implant stored therein. The securing means  930  is oriented to hold a surgical implant device  940  securely. The recessed portion  920  also has a further recessed portion  950  for aiding in removal of the surgical implant device  940  form its securing means  930 . The storage apparatus  1000  possesses a cover  960  for protecting the surgical implant device  940 . The cover  960  possesses a shape which allows for mechanical attachment to the base  910 . The cover  960  has at least one flange  970  to engage a lip on the base  910 . This mechanical engagement allows for ease in removal of the surgical implant device  940  from its protective storage apparatus  1000 .  
         [0078]    [0078]FIG. 17B illustrates the cover  960  and the base  910  engaged so to protect the surgical implant device  940 . The lip  980  is positioned so as to releasably engage the flange  970  of the cover  960  of FIG. 17A.  
         [0079]    While the above-described embodiments are exemplary, the invention contemplates a wide variety of apparatuses for storage of a surgical implant device. The above-described embodiments are therefore not intended to be limiting to the scope of the equivalents thereof.