Lenticules for intrastromal corneal implantation

Abstract

Decellularized and shaped corneal tissue lenticules from allograft and/or xenograft sources and methods of obtaining such lenticules are disclosed. The lenticules are particularly useful as intrastromal lenticular implants in keratoplasty procedures, in which a hinged flap is formed in a patient's cornea and folded back along its hinge to expose the stromal bed of the cornea. The shaped lenticule is then applied to the stromal bed and the flap returned to its original position yielding a new curvature for the cornea and resulting in a desired refractive correction. Fine-tuning of the new refractive power can be achieved by laser ablation either at the same time as implantation or at later time in the event of regression or tonus changes. Methods of decellularizing cornea tissue are disclosed to reduce potential immunogenic reactions on the part of the patient to the implanted lenticule. The lenticules can be further treated to remove immunogenic epitopes. In addition, the posterior and/or anterior surfaces of the lenticule can be treated to assist in intrastromal seating of the lenticule and/or to reduce the likelihood of dislodgement. The methods of forming lenticules can further include preserving at least a portion of the Bowman's membrane. The smoothness of the Bowman's membrane surface also makes it less likely that reopening the flap will dislodge the lenticule.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.