Claims for Patent: 6,367,480

Summary for Patent: 6,367,480

Title:	Methods for visualizing the anterior lens capsule of the human eye
Abstract:	Use of trypan blue in the manufacture of a composition to enhance the visualisation of the anterior lens capsule of the eye during removal of a cataractous lens and lens replacement procedures is described. Also described are methods for the visualisation of the anterior lens capsule and processes for cataract treatment.
Inventor(s):	Coroneo; Minas Theodore (Randwick, NSW 2031, AU)
Assignee:
Application Number:	09/426,769
Patent Claims:	1. A method for the visualization of an anterior lens capsule of a living human subject, comprising instilling into the anterior chamber of an eye a solution of trypan blue in an ocularly compatible vehicle followed by the addition of a viscoelastic. 2. The method for visualization of the anterior lens capsule during capsulorhexis procedures according to claim 1, which comprises filling the anterior chamber of the eye with the viscoelastic substance, introducing the trypan blue solution comprising about 0.05% w/w to 3% w/w trypan blue below the viscoelastic substance for a time sufficient to stain the anterior lens capsule, removing from the anterior chamber of the eye the excess trypan blue and viscoelastic substance, re-introducing the viscoelastic substance into the anterior capsule, and thereafter, carrying out capsulorhexis, lens removal, and replacement with an intraocular lens. 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein viscoelastic substances of differing viscosities are introduced into the eye, a less viscous substance being introduced over the lens capsule, and a more viscous substance being introduced at the pupil margin of the eye so as to minimize leakage of trypan blue from the anterior lens capsule. 4. A method for cataract treatment which comprises filling the anterior chamber of an eye with a viscoelastic substance, introducing a trypan blue solution comprising about 0.05% w/w to 3% w/w trypan blue below the viscoelastic substance for a time sufficient to stain the anterior lens capsule, removing from the anterior chamber of the eye the excess trypan blue and viscoelastic substance, re-introducing the viscoelastic substance into the anterior capsule, and thereafter, carrying out capsulorhexis, lens removal, and replacement with an intraocular lens.