Intraocular Micro Components
6/15/17 Cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma are major causes of loss of vision. Implants are generally used to help with these situations. Ophthalmic and intraocular implants are largely made up of many micro sized and highly precise components and assemblies.
This glaucoma drain, commonly known as a shunt, is injection molded, spherically shaped with a wedge-shaped radial side action in the tool that creates the drain geometry. At the end of the side action travel is a 250 micron orifice whereby no flash can be tolerated. Shunts are mostly tubular, however this one is 3d shaped and designed for placement in the sclera (side of the eye). It is designed to act like a venturi system which uses the pressure of the eye to push the discharge from glaucoma to behind the eye where it can drain. In addition to the 250 micron entry orifice, there are 4 suture holes of 250 micron diameter (2x a human hair) molded into the top of the implant. These suture holes also must be free and clear of particulate or flash to prevent sutures from cutting during implantable or after surgery. Designing and manufacturing micro sized components like this takes special technology and tooling. To get the job done right you need to find a company that has years of experience in micro components, like Micro Engineering Solutions does. If you have a project that needs micro-specialty please give us a call.
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