United States Patent 7,951,133: A Detailed Analysis of Scope and Claims
Introduction
The United States Patent 7,951,133, titled "SNUS DELIVERY OF SUSTAINED RELEASE THERAPEUTICS," is assigned to Intersect ENT, Inc. and inventors Donald J. Eaton, Mary Lynn Moran, and Rodney A. Brenneman. This patent is crucial in the field of medical devices, particularly for treating sinusitis. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background and Invention Overview
Purpose and Application
The patent describes biodegradable implants designed for the treatment of sinusitis. These implants are engineered to deliver sustained release therapeutics directly to the sinuses, providing a targeted and efficient treatment method. The invention aims to improve patient outcomes by reducing the need for repeated treatments and minimizing side effects associated with traditional therapies[2].
Key Components
The biodegradable implants are characterized by their specific size, shape, and material composition. These implants are designed to degrade over time, releasing therapeutic agents in a controlled manner. The patent details various aspects of the implant's design, including the types of biodegradable materials used and the methods for manufacturing these devices[2].
Patent Claims
Claim Structure
The patent includes multiple claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims are categorized into independent and dependent claims.
Independent Claims
Independent claims stand alone and define the broadest scope of the invention. For example, Claim 1 might describe the overall structure and function of the biodegradable implant, while subsequent independent claims might focus on specific aspects such as the material composition or the method of delivery.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims build upon the independent claims, adding additional limitations or details. These claims help to narrow down the scope and provide further specificity to the invention. For instance, a dependent claim might specify a particular type of biodegradable material or a specific therapeutic agent used in the implant[2].
Claim Examples
- Claim 1: A biodegradable implant for treating sinusitis, comprising a biodegradable material and a therapeutic agent, wherein the implant is designed to release the therapeutic agent over a sustained period.
- Dependent Claim: The biodegradable implant of Claim 1, wherein the biodegradable material is selected from the group consisting of polylactic acid, polyglycolic acid, and copolymers thereof.
Patent Scope and Coverage
Patent Term Adjustment (PTA)
The patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer and has been granted a Patent Term Adjustment (PTA) of 326 days due to USPTO delays during the prosecution process. This adjustment extends the patent term, ensuring that the inventors and assignees receive the full benefit of their patent rights[2].
Related Applications and Continuations
The patent is part of a larger family of related applications and continuations. For instance, it is a continuation of application No. 10/800,162, filed on March 12, 2004. Understanding these relationships is crucial for determining the overall scope and potential overlap with other patents in the same family[2].
Patent Landscape
Competing Patents and Technologies
The field of biodegradable implants for sinusitis treatment is competitive, with several other patents and technologies vying for market share. For example, other patents may cover different types of biodegradable materials, alternative delivery mechanisms, or variations in therapeutic agents. Analyzing these competing patents helps in understanding the unique value proposition of the 7,951,133 patent[2].
Regulatory Environment
The regulatory environment plays a significant role in the patent landscape. Patents must comply with FDA regulations and other health standards. The approval process for such medical devices is stringent, and any patent must demonstrate safety, efficacy, and compliance with regulatory requirements[4].
Economic and Market Impact
Market Demand
The demand for effective treatments for sinusitis is high, given the prevalence of the condition. Biodegradable implants offering sustained release therapeutics can significantly improve patient care and reduce healthcare costs associated with repeated treatments.
Competitive Advantage
The unique design and functionality of the biodegradable implants described in the 7,951,133 patent can provide a competitive advantage to Intersect ENT, Inc. in the market. This advantage can be leveraged to secure market share and drive revenue growth.
Legal Considerations
Obviousness and Novelty
To maintain its validity, the patent must withstand challenges related to obviousness and novelty. The claims must be novel and non-obvious over the prior art, ensuring that the invention is truly innovative and not an obvious extension of existing technologies[4].
Litigation and Enforcement
Patent enforcement is crucial for protecting intellectual property rights. Any infringement on the 7,951,133 patent could lead to legal action, and the patent holder must be prepared to defend their rights in court.
Conclusion
The United States Patent 7,951,133 represents a significant innovation in the treatment of sinusitis through biodegradable implants. Understanding the scope, claims, and broader patent landscape is essential for both the inventors and competitors in this field.
Key Takeaways
- Biodegradable Implants: The patent describes biodegradable implants for treating sinusitis with sustained release therapeutics.
- Claim Structure: The patent includes independent and dependent claims that define the scope of the invention.
- Patent Term Adjustment: The patent has been granted a PTA of 326 days due to USPTO delays.
- Competitive Landscape: The field is competitive, with other patents covering different aspects of biodegradable implants.
- Regulatory Compliance: The patent must comply with FDA regulations and health standards.
- Market Impact: The invention has the potential to improve patient care and reduce healthcare costs.
FAQs
Q: What is the primary purpose of the biodegradable implants described in the 7,951,133 patent?
A: The primary purpose is to treat sinusitis by delivering sustained release therapeutics directly to the sinuses.
Q: What types of materials are used in the biodegradable implants?
A: The implants are made from biodegradable materials such as polylactic acid, polyglycolic acid, and their copolymers.
Q: How does the Patent Term Adjustment (PTA) affect the 7,951,133 patent?
A: The PTA extends the patent term by 326 days due to delays during the prosecution process.
Q: Are there other related patents in the same family as the 7,951,133 patent?
A: Yes, the patent is a continuation of application No. 10/800,162, and there are other related applications and continuations.
Q: What regulatory standards must the biodegradable implants comply with?
A: The implants must comply with FDA regulations and other health standards to ensure safety and efficacy.
