Patent Description:
For cataract surgery, a surgical procedure may require incisions and insertion of tools within an eye to replace the clouded natural lens with an intraocular lens ("IOL"). A large incision site may cause a longer post-operation healing time. To reduce this healing time, typical operating procedures have shifted to making incisions of about <NUM> millimeters in size into the eye. While this smaller size of incision may reduce post-operation healing time, problems such as the size and functionality of the insertion tool may arise as the incision size continues to shrink. Typically, the insertion tool may be pre-loaded with the IOL that may be inserted into the patient's eye once the clouded natural lens is removed. The insertion tool may include a plunger for forcing the IOL out of the nozzle of the insertion tool. The plunger may have additional functions including haptic tucking and folding of the IOL. Once an incision has been made, the insertion tool may be inserted into the eye through the incision, and the folded IOL may be dispensed into the eye by actuation of the plunger. As the incision site decreases, the size of the nozzle of the insertion tool may decrease accordingly. The document <CIT> relates how an intraocular lens is deformed in a state of mountain shape fold while the intraocular lens is sent into the introductory part of the insertion cylinder. <CIT>, relates to an intraocular lens insertion tool used to insert an intraocular lens into the eye. <CIT> relates to a cassette having a cassette body with a space for receiving an intraocular lens and a lid for closing the cassette body.

In an exemplary aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a haptic optic management system as defined in the claims.

In another exemplary aspect, the present disclosure is directed to an insertion tool. The insertion tool may include a drive system that includes a body. The insertion tool may further include a plunger disposed in the drive system. The insertion tool may further include a nozzle. The insertion tool may further include a haptic optic management system as defined in the claims, positioned between the nozzle and the drive system for receiving a distal tip of the plunger.

In another exemplary aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a method of delivering an intraocular lens. The method may include applying an external force upon a clip to compress the clip in a housing, wherein the housing contains the intraocular lens. The intraocular lens may include an optic and haptics that extend from a periphery of the optic. The method may further include engaging the haptics with the clip as the clip is compressed to cause the haptics to fold onto the intraocular lens. The method may further include moving the clip away from the intraocular lens to release a force applied to a plate holding the intraocular lens to cause the plate and the intraocular lens to roll. The method may further include actuating a drive system to dispense the intraocular lens through a nozzle and into an eye.

The different aspects may include one or more of the following features. The housing may include a through bore traversing a length of the housing from a first end of the housing to a second end of the housing. The plate may be disposed in the through bore. The plate may be elastic, herein the clip engages the plate to prevent the plate from returning to an original position. The plate may include a material selected from the group consisting of spring steel, nitinol, polyimide, silicone, coated metals, and combinations thereof. The haptic optic management system may include an intraocular lens disposed on a lens surface of the plate, wherein the intraocular lens may include an optic and haptics that extend from a periphery of the optic. The housing may include openings in a side the housing, wherein the openings comprise a central slit and a pair of slits, wherein the central slit is disposed between the pair of slits, wherein the clip extends through the openings into a through bore in the housing. The plurality of legs may include outer support legs that extend through the pair of slits in the housing to hold the plate in position and inner legs that extend through central slit. The clip body may include a spring portion and opposing gripping portions that extend from the spring portion. The clip may further include a center post that extends from the clip body, wherein the center post aligns the clip within the pair of slits of the housing. The plunger may be operable to engage an intraocular lens disposable in the haptic optic management system when the drive system is actuated to dispense the intraocular lens from the nozzle. The drive system may include a lever and a pneumatic system. The clip may include a plurality of legs that extend from the clip body. The plurality of legs may extend into the housing of the haptic optic management system. The applying the external force may cause at least a portion of the legs to compress closer together. The plurality of legs may include inner legs. The inner legs may engage the haptics to cause the haptics to fold over on top of the intraocular lens. The plurality of legs may include outer support legs, wherein moving the clip away from the intraocular lens causes feet of the outer support legs to release from engagement with the plate such that the plate rolls upon itself. The actuating the drive system may cause a plunger to displace the intraocular lens out of the housing through the nozzle.

These drawings illustrate certain aspects of some of the embodiments of the present disclosure and should not be used to limit or define the disclosure.

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the implementations illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe them. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure may be intended. Any alterations and further modifications to the described devices, instruments, methods, and any further application of the principles of the present disclosure are fully contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure relates. In particular, it is fully contemplated that the features, components, and/or steps described with reference to one or more implementations may be combined with the features, components, and/or steps described with reference to other implementations of the present disclosure. For simplicity, in some instances the same reference numbers may be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

The example embodiments described herein generally relate to eye surgery. More particularly, the example embodiments generally relate to systems, methods, and devices for inserting an intraocular lens ("IOL") into an eye. Embodiments may include an insertion tool for preparation and delivery of the IOL into a patient's eye that includes a plunger, a nozzle, and a haptic optic management system. In some embodiments, the haptic management system may fold the IOL and tuck one or more haptics of the IOL. The haptic extends from an optic of the IOL and stabilizes the IOL when disposed within the capsular bag of the eye. After preparation of the IOL, the plunger forces the IOL through the insertion tool and out the nozzle.

<FIG> illustrates a schematic of an insertion tool <NUM>. In some embodiments, insertion tool <NUM> may include a drive system <NUM>, a plunger <NUM>, a haptic optic management system (interchangeably referred to as "HOMS") <NUM>, and a nozzle <NUM>. The drive system <NUM> may be any system or combination of components operable to actuate the plunger <NUM>. For example, the drive system <NUM> may utilize a lever and/or pneumatic systems; a manually driven system or component; an electromechanical system; a hydraulic system; or other device operable to drive the plunger <NUM> to advance; partially advance; or fully deliver an IOL <NUM> from the insertion tool <NUM>. The plunger <NUM> is coupled to the drive system <NUM>. The drive system <NUM> is operable to actuate the plunger <NUM>. For example, the drive system <NUM> may be powered by, for example, electrically, mechanically, hydraulically, pneumatically, combinations thereof, or in some other manner. In response to the drive system <NUM>, the plunger <NUM> moves through the HOMS <NUM>. The HOMS <NUM> may be located between the drive system <NUM> and the nozzle <NUM>. In alternate embodiments, the HOMS <NUM> may be disposed at other locations within the insertion tool <NUM>. In some embodiments, the HOMS <NUM> may contain an IOL <NUM> in an unfolded position.

The drive system <NUM> may be any system, component, or group of components operable to advance an IOL <NUM> through the insertion tool <NUM>. For example, the drive system <NUM> include plunger, schematically shown as plunger <NUM> in <FIG>, that is operable to engage the IOL <NUM> disposed within the insertion tool <NUM> and advance the IOL <NUM> within the insertion tool <NUM>. In some instances, the plunger <NUM> is operable to expel the IOL from the insertion tool <NUM>.

In some instances, the drive system <NUM> may be a manually driven system. That is, in some instances, a user applies a force to cause the drive system <NUM> to operate. An example drive system <NUM> includes a plunger <NUM> that is manually engageable directly or indirectly by a user to push the plunger <NUM> through the insertion tool <NUM>. When advanced, the plunger <NUM> engages an IOL <NUM> and advances the IOL <NUM> through the insertion tool <NUM>, which may also include expelling the IOL <NUM> from the insertion tool <NUM>. A non-limiting example of a manual IOL insertion tool is shown in <CIT>. According to other implementations, the drive system <NUM> may be an automated system. Example automated drive systems are shown in <CIT>; <CIT>; and <CIT>. Still further, other automated drive systems within the scope of the present disclosure are described in <CIT> and <CIT>. While example drive systems are provided as examples, these systems are not intended to be limiting.

As shown in <FIG>, the IOL <NUM> is a single piece IOL that includes an optic <NUM> and haptics <NUM> extending from opposing sides of the optic <NUM>. For example, in the example IOL <NUM> shown in <FIG>, the haptics <NUM> are disposed <NUM>° relative to each other along an outer periphery of the optic <NUM>. However, other types of IOLs are within the scope of the disclosure. For example, a multi-piece IOL, in which the optic and one or more haptics are separate components, may also be used.

The IOL <NUM> may have a shape similar to that of a natural lens of an eye (e.g., eye <NUM> shown in <FIG>). The IOL <NUM> may be made from a numerous materials including, but not limited to, silicone, acrylic, and/or combinations thereof. Other materials are also contemplated. The haptics <NUM> extend from a periphery of the optic <NUM> and function to stabilize the IOL <NUM> when disposed within an eye.

In some instances, the HOMS <NUM> may be actuated to tuck the haptics <NUM> over the optic <NUM> and fold the optic <NUM>. For example, the HOMS <NUM> may operate to fold the haptics <NUM> over the optic <NUM> and fold the optic <NUM> over or around the folded haptics <NUM>. The IOL <NUM> is shown in a folded configuration at <NUM>. The folded configuration <NUM> of the optic <NUM> may involve one or more haptics <NUM> folded relative to the optic <NUM> and, in some instances, the optic <NUM> folded relative to one or more of the haptics <NUM>. The plunger <NUM> may be advanced through the HOMS <NUM> once the HOMS <NUM> has folded the IOL <NUM>. As the plunger <NUM> moves through the HOMS <NUM>, the plunger <NUM> displaces the folded IOL <NUM> from the HOMS <NUM>. For example, the plunger <NUM> may force the folded IOL <NUM> into and through the nozzle <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an eye <NUM> of a patient undergoing an operation with insertion tool <NUM>. As illustrated, the insertion tool <NUM> dispenses a folded IOL <NUM> into the eye <NUM> of a patient. In some embodiments, an incision <NUM> is made in the eye <NUM> by a surgeon, for example. For example, in some instances, the incision <NUM> may be made through the sclera <NUM> of the eye <NUM>. In other instances, an incision may be formed in the cornea <NUM> of the eye <NUM>. The incision <NUM> may be sized to permit insertion of a portion of the insertion tool <NUM> in order to deliver the folded IOL <NUM> into the capsular bag <NUM>. For example, in some instances, the size of the incision <NUM> may have a length less than about <NUM> microns (<NUM> millimeters). In other instances, the incision <NUM> may have a length of from about <NUM> microns to about <NUM> microns, from about <NUM> microns to about <NUM> microns, from about <NUM> microns to about <NUM> microns, or from about <NUM> microns to about <NUM> microns.

After the incision <NUM> is made, the insertion tool <NUM> is inserted through the incision into an interior portion <NUM> of the eye <NUM>. The insertion tool <NUM> is actuated to dispense the folded IOL <NUM> into the capsular bag <NUM> of the eye <NUM>. Upon dispensation, the folded IOL <NUM> reverts to an initial, unfolded state, and the IOL <NUM> settles within the capsular bag <NUM> of the eye <NUM>, as shown on <FIG>. The capsular bag <NUM> holds the IOL <NUM> within the eye <NUM> in a relationship relative to the eye <NUM> so that the optic <NUM> refracts light directed to the retina (not shown). The haptics <NUM> of the IOL <NUM> engage the capsular bag <NUM> to secure the IOL <NUM> therein. After dispensing the IOL <NUM> into the capsular bag <NUM>, the insertion tool <NUM> is removed from the eye <NUM> through the incision <NUM>, and the eye <NUM> is allowed to heal over a period of time.

<FIG> illustrate an example insertion tool <NUM> operable to deliver an IOL into the eye (e.g., IOL <NUM> in eye <NUM> shown on <FIG>). As illustrated, the insertion tool <NUM> includes a drive system <NUM>, a haptic optic management system <NUM>, and a nozzle <NUM>. The insertion tool <NUM> may also include a plunger, which may be similar to the plunger <NUM> shown in <FIG>. In some instances, The plunger <NUM> may be actuated to advance an IOL, e.g., which may be similar to the IOL <NUM> shown in <FIG>, within the insertion tool <NUM> and, in some cases, dispense the IOL <NUM> from the insertion tool <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the drive system <NUM> includes a body <NUM> and a lever <NUM> that may be pivotally coupled to the body <NUM>. The nozzle <NUM> is coupled to a distal end <NUM> of the body <NUM>. The HOMS <NUM> is disposed between the body <NUM> and the nozzle <NUM>. In some instances, the nozzle <NUM> may be integrally connected to the body <NUM>. In other instances, the nozzle <NUM> may be separate from the body <NUM> and may be coupled to the body <NUM> via an interlocking relationship. In some instances, the HOMS <NUM> and the nozzle <NUM> may be integrally formed. In other instances, the HOMS <NUM>, the nozzle <NUM>, and the body <NUM> may be integrally formed.

In some instances, the body <NUM> may have a slender, elongated shape. In some instances, the body <NUM> may have a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM>. In some instances, the second portion <NUM> may be at least partially disposed over the first portion <NUM>. In the example shown, the second portion <NUM> includes a plurality of apertures <NUM>. A plurality of tabs <NUM> formed on the first portion <NUM> are received into the apertures <NUM> to join the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>. The tabs <NUM> may form an interlocking fit with the apertures <NUM>. However, the construction of the body <NUM> of the example insertion tool <NUM> shown in <FIG> is merely a non-limiting example. In some instances, the body <NUM> may be a single unitary piece. In some instances, the body <NUM> may include one or more cylindrical pieces. Moreover, the body <NUM> may be constructed in any desirable manner from any number of components.

With reference to <FIG>, the body <NUM> also includes reliefs <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. The reliefs <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> are shallow recesses formed in the body <NUM> to accommodate, for example, one or more fingers of a user. One or more of the reliefs <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may include a textured surface <NUM> that may provide a user with an improved grip of and control over the insertion tool <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the relief <NUM> may include texture surface <NUM>. However, the scope may not be so limited. Rather any, all, or none of the reliefs <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may include the textured surface <NUM>. Similarly, the lever <NUM> may also include a textured surface <NUM>. However, in some instances, the lever <NUM> may not include a textured surface.

Referring to <FIG>, the nozzle <NUM> includes a distal tip <NUM> that defines an opening <NUM>. The nozzle <NUM> also includes a flared portion or wound guard <NUM>. The distal tip <NUM> may be adapted to be inserted into an incision formed in an eye, such as the incision <NUM> in eye <NUM> shown on <FIG>, in order to deliver a folded IOL thereinto. The wound guard <NUM> may include an end surface <NUM> operable to contact an exterior surface in order to limit a depth to which the distal tip <NUM> penetrates the eye <NUM>. In some embodiments, the wound guard <NUM> may be omitted.

In some embodiments, the insertion tool <NUM> may be preloaded. That is, the insertion tool <NUM> may include an IOL disposed therein when provided to an end user. In some instances, the IOL may be disposed within the insertion tool <NUM> in an unfolded state and ready to be delivered into a patient. Having the insertion tool <NUM> preloaded with an IOL reduces the number of steps a user must perform both before delivering the IOL into a patient. For example, a preloaded insertion tool obviates any steps a user would otherwise be required to perform in order to load the insertion tool with the IOL. With a reduced number of steps, error and risk associated with delivery of the IOL into a patient may be reduced. Further, an amount of time required to deliver the IOL may also be reduced. In some embodiments, the IOL may be pre-loaded into the haptic optic management system <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a close-up view of an example insertion tool <NUM> with a haptic optic management system <NUM>. The HOMS <NUM> is operable to folds the IOL. For example, in some instances, the HOMS <NUM> may be operable to fold an IOL from an unstressed condition to a fully folded configuration, as shown in <FIG>, for example. During folding, the HOMS <NUM> may tuck or fold the haptics <NUM> over the optic <NUM> of the IOL <NUM> as well as fold edges of the optic <NUM> over the tucked haptics <NUM>, capturing the haptics <NUM> and thereby placing the IOL <NUM> into the folded configuration, as shown in <FIG>, for example.

As shown in <FIG>, for example, the HOMS <NUM> is sized to commensurate with a size of the insertion tool <NUM>. That is, the HOMS <NUM> has a compact size to avoid or limit an amount of obstruction to a surgeon's view while inserting an IOL into an eye. However, the scope of the disclosure is not so limited. Rather, in some instances, a size and/or shape of the haptic optic management system may be selected to be any desired size or shape. Further, while the HOMS <NUM> is shown disposed at the distal end of the insertion tool <NUM>, the haptic optic management system <NUM> may be disposed anywhere within or along the insertion tool <NUM>. In some embodiments, the HOMS <NUM> may be disposed between the nozzle <NUM> and the drive system <NUM>.

In the illustrated example of <FIG>, the HOMS <NUM> is disposed between the distal end <NUM> of the body <NUM> and the nozzle <NUM>. In some instances, the HOMS <NUM> may be removably coupled to the nozzle <NUM> and/or the drive system <NUM>. For example, the HOMS <NUM> may be removably coupled to the body <NUM> with the use of fasteners or adhesives. In still other implementations, the HOMS <NUM> may couple to the body <NUM> by a snap-fit engagement or any other desired method of connection. Without limitation, example fasteners may include nuts and bolts, washers, screws, pins, sockets, rods and studs, hinges and/or any combination thereof.

<FIG> illustrates an example haptic optic management system <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the HOMS <NUM> includes a housing <NUM>, a plate <NUM>, and a clip <NUM>. The housing <NUM> may be a protective covering for the IOL <NUM> (e.g., shown on <FIG>) that is to be manipulated within the insertion tool <NUM>. The housing <NUM> may be made from materials, such as, for example, metals, nonmetals, polymers, ceramics, and/or combinations thereof. The housing <NUM> may have any suitable size and/or shape for accommodating an IOL, such as the IOL <NUM> shown on <FIG>. For example and without limitation, the housing <NUM> may be shaped such that all or a portion of the housing <NUM> may have a cross-sectional shape that is circular, elliptical, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, and/or combinations thereof. In other embodiments, all or a portion of the housing <NUM> may have a rectangular cross-sectional shape. The housing <NUM> includes a through bore <NUM> that traverses the entire length from a first end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> to a second end <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The through bore <NUM> defines a path through which a plunger <NUM> advances to engage an IOL and <NUM> drive the IOL <NUM> through the HOMS <NUM>, as shown on <FIG>. In some implementations, the plunger <NUM> continues to drive the IOL <NUM> through the nozzle <NUM> of the insertion tool <NUM> and expel the IOL <NUM> from the insertion tool <NUM>, as shown on <FIG>. In the example shown in <FIG>, the through bore <NUM> has a rectangular cross-section. However, the scope of the disclosure is not so limited. In other implementations, the through bore <NUM> may have a cross-sectional shape that is U-shaped, circular, oval, rectangular, square, triangular, polygonal, or any other cross-sectional shape.

Additionally, there may be one or more openings, shown on <FIG> as central slit <NUM> and pair of slits <NUM>, disposed on one or more sides <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. As illustrated, the central slit <NUM> and the pair of slits <NUM> are parallel and formed in the housing <NUM> in the same direction as the through bore <NUM>. In addition, the pair of slits <NUM> are disposed on either side of the central slit <NUM>. The central slit <NUM> and the pair of slits <NUM> may be disposed on any of the one or more sides <NUM> of the housing <NUM> and/or on a plurality of the one or more sides <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Without limitation, there may a single central slit <NUM> and two or more individual slits in each pair of slits <NUM>. The central slit <NUM> and the pair of slits <NUM> provide access to the through bore <NUM> from the outside of the housing <NUM>.

The plate <NUM> is disposed in the through bore <NUM>. The plate <NUM> has a lens surface <NUM> upon which an IOL is disposed, such as the IOL <NUM> shown on <FIG>. The plate <NUM> may roll the IOL <NUM> such that the IOL <NUM> folds upon itself. The plate <NUM> may be made from an elastic material, such as a shape memory material. Suitable materials may include, but are not limited to, nonmetals, polymers, ceramics, and/or combinations thereof. Without limitation, the plate <NUM> may be made from spring steel, nitinol, polyimide, silicone, coated metals, and/or the like. The plate <NUM> may have any suitable size and/or shape for holding the IOL <NUM>. For example and without limitation, the plate <NUM> may be shaped such that all or a portion of the plate <NUM> may have a cross-sectional shape that is circular, elliptical, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, and/or combinations thereof. In other embodiments, all or a portion of the plate <NUM> may have a rectangular cross-sectional shape for placement in the through bore <NUM>.

In embodiments, the clip <NUM> is in removable engagement with the plate <NUM> within the housing <NUM>. The clip <NUM> holds the plate <NUM> such that the lens surface <NUM> is flat within the through bore <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The clip <NUM> is referred to as being a "squid" as it includes a plurality of legs, shown on <FIG> as outer support legs <NUM> and inner legs <NUM>. The clip <NUM> includes a clip body <NUM> from which the outer support legs <NUM> and the inner legs <NUM> extend. The clip body <NUM> couples the outer support legs <NUM> and the inner legs <NUM> in a hinge-like fashion so that flexible compression of the clip body <NUM> causes the outer support legs <NUM> and the inner legs <NUM> to compress closer together. As illustrated, the outer support legs <NUM> extend into the pair of slits <NUM> and the inner legs <NUM> extend into the central slit <NUM>. In the housing <NUM>, the outer support legs <NUM> engage the plate <NUM>. The outer support legs <NUM> keep the plate <NUM> in a flat position. In some instances, the plate <NUM> is predisposed to roll or fold in upon itself. This may be due to the way the plate <NUM> was manufactured, and/or the plate <NUM> may have been conditioned to roll or fold in upon itself by an external force. By disposing the outer support legs <NUM> within the housing <NUM>, the outer support legs <NUM> engage the plate <NUM> and prevent the plate <NUM> from moving. The clip <NUM> may be made from materials, such as, for example, metals, nonmetals, polymers, ceramics, and/or combinations thereof. Without limitation, the clip <NUM> may be made from a medical grade plastic such as polypropylene, polycarbonate, and/or the like. The clip <NUM> may have any size and/or shape. For example and without limitation, the clip <NUM> may be shaped such that all or a portion of the clip <NUM> may have a cross-sectional shape that is circular, elliptical, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, and/or combinations thereof.

<FIG> is a perspective view of the clip <NUM>. As illustrated, the clip <NUM> includes the outer support legs <NUM>, the inner legs <NUM>, and the clip body <NUM>. As illustrated, the outer support legs <NUM> extend from the clip body <NUM>. In some embodiments, there may be four outer support legs <NUM>. However, embodiments may include more or less than four of the outer support legs <NUM>. In some examples, there are two outer support legs <NUM> disposed on one side of the clip <NUM> and two outer support legs <NUM> disposed on another side of the clip <NUM>, wherein each outer support leg <NUM> is reflected from the position of another outer support leg <NUM> across an X-axis <NUM> of the clip <NUM> and a Y-axis <NUM> of the clip <NUM>. The outer support legs <NUM> provide structural support and stability to the clip <NUM>. A foot <NUM> may be coupled to each of the outer support legs <NUM>. As illustrated, the foot <NUM> may be coupled to a distal end <NUM> of each of the outer support legs <NUM>. The foot <NUM> may be integrally connected to each of the outer support legs <NUM>. In other instances, the foot <NUM> may be separate from the outer support leg <NUM> and may be coupled to the outer support leg 720via an interlocking relationship. In some instances, the outer support leg <NUM> and foot <NUM> may be integrally formed.

Additionally, the clip <NUM> includes a plurality of the inner legs <NUM>. As shown, there are two inner legs <NUM>. However, the clip <NUM> may include more or less than two inner legs <NUM> depending, for example, on the particular application. Each of the inner legs <NUM> are disposed between two of the outer support legs <NUM>. In some embodiments, each of the inner legs <NUM> is in the same relative position reflected across the X-axis <NUM> of the clip <NUM>. The inner legs <NUM> each include a curved portion <NUM> at a distal end <NUM> of each of the inner legs <NUM>.

In some instances, the clip <NUM> includes a plurality of center posts <NUM>. As shown, there are two of the center posts <NUM>. However, the clip <NUM> may include more or less than two center posts <NUM> depending, for example, on the particular application. In some embodiments, each center post <NUM> is in the same relative position reflected across the Y-axis <NUM> of the clip <NUM>. The center posts <NUM> may have any size and/or shape. For example and without limitation, the center posts <NUM> may be shaped such that all or a portion of the center posts <NUM> may have a cross-sectional shape that is circular, elliptical, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, and/or combinations thereof. In other embodiments, all or a portion of the center posts <NUM> may have a circular cross-sectional shape. The center posts <NUM> align the clip <NUM> with the pair of slits <NUM> (e.g., referring to <FIG>) of the housing <NUM>. The center posts <NUM> provide additional structural support for the clip <NUM>. The center posts <NUM> also serve to hold the IOL <NUM> (e.g., referring to <FIG>) in a stationary position prior to actuation of the HOMS <NUM> (e.g., referring to <FIG>).

The clip body <NUM> of the clip <NUM> may have any size and/or shape. For example and without limitation, the clip body <NUM> may be shaped such that all or a portion of the clip body <NUM> may have a cross-sectional shape that is circular, elliptical, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, and/or combinations thereof. In other embodiments, all or a portion of the clip body <NUM> may by U-shaped. However, embodiments of the clip body <NUM> may also be c-shaped, v-shaped, or otherwise formed for the clip body <NUM> to couple the outer support legs <NUM> and the inner legs <NUM> in a hinge-like fashion such that compression of the clip body <NUM> causes the outer support legs <NUM> and the inner legs <NUM> to compress closer to one another. The clip body <NUM> may be symmetric or asymmetric across the X-axis <NUM> and/or the Y-axis <NUM>. In some instances, the clip body <NUM> provides one or more gripping surfaces <NUM> for an operator. As illustrated, the clip body <NUM> includes a spring portion <NUM> and opposing gripping portions <NUM> that include the gripping surfaces <NUM>. The opposing gripping portions <NUM> extend from the spring portion <NUM>. As illustrated, the center posts <NUM> extend from the spring portion <NUM>. The outer support legs <NUM> and the inner legs <NUM> extend from the gripping portions <NUM>. In operation, the clip body <NUM> is actuated by a force, such as a compression force. The force may compress the clip body <NUM>, for example, by squeezing the gripping portions <NUM> together, which causes outer support legs <NUM> and/or the inner legs <NUM> to translate in the same path of motion as the direction of the force acting on the clip body <NUM>. In examples, the clip body <NUM> biases the outer support legs <NUM> and the inner legs <NUM> such that when the force is removed, the outer support legs <NUM> and the inner legs <NUM> return to their original position.

<FIG> is a perspective view of the plate <NUM>. As illustrated, the plate <NUM> includes a base <NUM> and sidewalls <NUM>. The base <NUM> has a longitudinal axis <NUM>. The base <NUM> includes a lens surface <NUM>. The base <NUM> also includes ends <NUM> and lateral sides <NUM> that extend between the ends <NUM>. The sidewalls <NUM> extend upwards from the lateral sides <NUM>. As illustrated, the sidewalls <NUM> extend the entire length between the ends <NUM>, but embodiments may include extended sidewalls <NUM> for a portion of the length between the ends <NUM>. As previously described, the plate <NUM> may be predisposed to roll or fold in upon itself. This may be due to the way the plate <NUM> was manufactured, and/or the plate <NUM> may have been conditioned to roll or fold in upon itself by an external force. <FIG> illustrates the plate <NUM> in a first position. As illustrated, the base <NUM> is generally flat in the first position. A force may be applied to the base <NUM> to maintain the first position. The plate <NUM> may have a second position that is the unstressed or pre-deformed position of the plate <NUM>. The plate <NUM> may be elastic so that when the force is removed the plate returns to the second position. When the force is removed, the plate <NUM> rolls or folds in upon itself into a second position, as illustrated on <FIG>. In the illustrated embodiment, the plate <NUM> rolls about the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a cross-sectional view of the haptic optic management system <NUM> of <FIG> taken along line <NUM>-<NUM>. As illustrated, the HOMS <NUM> includes a housing <NUM>, a plate <NUM>, and a clip <NUM>. In examples, IOL <NUM> is disposed in the through bore <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. As previously discussed, the IOL <NUM> may include the optic <NUM> and the haptics <NUM>. The IOL <NUM> is disposed on the lens surface <NUM> of the plate <NUM>. The IOL <NUM> may be in an unfolded state with the haptics <NUM> extending away from the optic <NUM>. In some instances, the plate <NUM> may be predisposed to roll or fold in upon itself by an external force. The clip <NUM> is positioned to apply a force to the plate <NUM> preventing the plate <NUM> from rolling or otherwise folding in upon itself. As illustrated, the clip <NUM> includes the outer support legs <NUM> and the inner legs <NUM> that extend from the clip body <NUM>. The outer support legs <NUM> extend into the pair of slits <NUM> (e.g., shown on <FIG>) and the inner legs <NUM> extend into the central slit <NUM> (e.g., shown on <FIG>) into the through bore <NUM>. The feet <NUM> are coupled to each of the outer support legs <NUM>. The feet <NUM> engage the plate <NUM> holding it in the first position (e.g., as best seen on <FIG>). In some embodiments, the feet <NUM> engage the lens surface <NUM>. In other instances, the feet <NUM> engage the sidewalls <NUM> of the plate <NUM>.

Operation of the haptic optic management system <NUM> will now be described in more details. Referring to <FIG>, the HOMS <NUM> may be pre-loaded with the IOL <NUM>. As illustrated, the IOL <NUM> is disposed on the plate <NUM> in the housing <NUM>. An operator actuates the clip <NUM>, for example, by applying a force on the clip body <NUM> of the clip <NUM>. The force compresses the clip body <NUM> also causing the opposing outer support legs <NUM> and the opposing inner legs <NUM> to move inward, closer together. As they move inward, the inner legs <NUM> come into contact with the haptics <NUM> of the IOL <NUM>. The inner legs <NUM> move the haptics <NUM> over and on top of the optic <NUM>. While the clip <NUM> is compressed, an operator can remove the clip <NUM> from the haptic optic management system <NUM>. As the clip <NUM> is removed, the force applied to the plate <NUM> by the clip <NUM> (e.g., by way of the feet <NUM>) is removed. Without this force, the plate <NUM> rolls, or at least partially rolls, in upon itself into the second position (as best seen on <FIG>) as there is no longer a force and/or object preventing the plate <NUM> from moving. As the plate <NUM> rolls, the IOL <NUM> disposed on the lens surface <NUM> of the plate <NUM> rolls in upon itself as illustrated on <FIG>.

In some embodiments, a haptic management system is configured without a plate and the clip <NUM> folds the haptics over and on top of an IOL. Also, in some cases, the IOL involves a base comprising a ring and haptics extending from the ring. In these cases, an IOL base can be inserted into an eye in a first surgical step and a separate optic can be inserted and coupled with the base at a second surgical step. Furthermore, the optic can be decoupled from the base and a further optic can be inserted and coupled to the already installed base at a subsequent surgical step. In these cases, for example, the haptic management system can be employed without a plate since the optic is not present and, therefore, would not need to be folded.

In the illustrated embodiment of <FIG>, the plate <NUM> is rolling in upon itself causing the IOL <NUM> to also roll in upon itself. As illustrated, the haptics <NUM> of the IOL <NUM> are disposed on the optic <NUM>. After rolling the IOL <NUM> into a folded position, (e.g., folded configuration <NUM> shown on <FIG>) the IOL <NUM> is dispensed from the insertion tool <NUM>. By way of example, a drive system (e.g. drive system <NUM> shown <FIG>) actuates to cause the IOL <NUM> to travel out of the haptic optic management system <NUM>, through the nozzle <NUM>, exiting out of the opening <NUM> at the distal tip <NUM> of the nozzle <NUM>. Accordingly, the haptic optic management system <NUM> as described herein is used to prepare the IOL <NUM> for insertion into an eye, such as the eye <NUM> shown on <FIG>.

Claim 1:
A haptic optic management system (<NUM>), comprising:
a housing (<NUM>);
a plate (<NUM>), wherein the plate is disposed within the housing; and
a clip (<NUM>) that engages the plate in the housing, wherein the clip comprises a clip body (<NUM>) and a plurality of legs (<NUM>, <NUM>) that extend from the clip body;
wherein an intraocular lens (<NUM>) is disposed on a lens surface (<NUM>) of the plate (<NUM>);
wherein the housing comprises openings (<NUM>, <NUM>) in a side of the housing, wherein the openings comprise a central slit (<NUM>) and a pair of slits (<NUM>), wherein the central slit is disposed between the pair of slits, wherein the clip (<NUM>) extends through the openings (<NUM>, <NUM>) into a through bore (<NUM>) in the housing;
wherein the plurality of legs (<NUM>, <NUM>) comprises outer support legs (<NUM>) that extend through the pair of slits (<NUM>) in the housing to hold the plate (<NUM>) in position and inner legs (<NUM>) that extend through central slit (<NUM>), the inner legs (<NUM>) each including a curved portion (<NUM>) at a distal end (<NUM>) of each of the inner legs (<NUM>);
wherein the clip body (<NUM>) is coupled to the outer support legs (<NUM>) and the inner legs (<NUM>) such that compression of the clip body (<NUM>) causes the outer support legs (<NUM>) and the inner legs (<NUM>) to compress closer to one another causing the curved portions (<NUM>) of the inner legs fold the plate (<NUM>) and the intraocular lens (<NUM>);
wherein the clip (<NUM>) further comprises a center post (<NUM>) that extends from the clip body (<NUM>) to hold the intraocular lens (<NUM>) in a stationary position during folding.