Patent attributes
The present invention provides a scleral lens which includes channels on its posterior bearing surface that improve the flow of tears between the bearing surface of the device and the underlying scleral eyes tissue into the space between the optic of the lens and cornea. The channels are disposed on the inside surface of the lens and extend generally radially from the inside of the haptic and the outside rim of the lens. Various configurations are possible for the channels, as described in more detail below. Additionally, the channels can have a serpentine or arcuate configuration to allow for the appropriate amount of fluid flow between the space under the lens and the scleral surface of the eye. In another embodiment, microchannels can be formed in the lens to increase the oxygen permeability of the lens. The microchannels can have many configurations that reduce the volume of the lens material.
