Implantable nasal stimulator systems and methods

    公开(公告)号:US10207108B2

    公开(公告)日:2019-02-19

    申请号:US14920852

    申请日:2015-10-22

    申请人: Oculeve, Inc.

    IPC分类号: A61N1/36 A61N1/372 A61N1/375

    摘要: Described here are systems, devices, and methods for implanting a nasal stimulator into nasal tissue and electrically stimulating nasal tissue. In some variations, a nasal microstimulator implantation system may comprise an implantation tool and an implantable microstimulator. An implantation tool may comprise a shaft and features to releasably attach a microstimulator. A microstimulator may comprise a passive stimulation circuit and one or more electrodes. In other variations, a nasal implantation system may additionally comprise one or more additional devices, such as a controller, an electrical probe, and/or a dissection tool.

    Intranasal stimulation for enhanced release of ocular mucins and other tear proteins

    公开(公告)号:US10426958B2

    公开(公告)日:2019-10-01

    申请号:US15367030

    申请日:2016-12-01

    申请人: Oculeve, Inc.

    摘要: Described here are devices and methods for increasing ocular mucin and other tear protein release using intranasally delivered electrical stimulation. Generally, the devices may deliver electrical stimulation to the nasal mucosa. Intranasal stimulation may trigger degranulation of conjunctival goblet cells, which in turn releases secretory mucins into the tear fluid. The intranasal stimulation may also trigger release of lysozyme, lactoferrin, and other tear proteins into the aqueous layer of the tear film. The methods may further comprise obtaining feedback relating to the efficacy of the delivered electrical stimulation by measuring impedance or an electromyogram (EMG) signal.

    Contact lens for increasing tear production

    公开(公告)号:US09764150B2

    公开(公告)日:2017-09-19

    申请号:US14920847

    申请日:2015-10-22

    申请人: Oculeve, Inc.

    IPC分类号: A61N1/36 A61N1/378

    摘要: Described here are devices, systems, and methods for increasing tear production by stimulating the cornea, conjunctiva, and/or subconjunctiva. In some variations, the devices may be in the form of a contact lens. The contact lens may comprise a lens body and a stimulator chip, where the stimulator chip is embedded in the lens body. An external power source wirelessly transmits energy to the stimulator chip, where the stimulator chip may convert the energy to an electric waveform to stimulate the cornea, conjunctiva, and/or subconjunctiva. Stimulation may activate the lacrimal reflex to increase tear production. The devices and systems for increasing tear production may be used in methods of treating dry eye, reducing the symptoms of tired eye, increasing comfort for contact lens wearers, and extending the number of years a contact lens user can wear contacts. Also described are methods of manufacturing a contact lens.