Importance

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Abstract

Devices, systems and methods are provided for the retention of scleral tissue during, and subsequent to, vitreoretinal surgical procedures. The devices include engagement portions for engaging circumferentially spaced exterior portions of the sclera attached respectively to opposite sides of a deformable portion. The systems include retention devices of the type just mentioned and emplacement devices adapted to hold the retention devices, deliver the retention devices to desired locations on the sclera of an eye, and to crimp the retention devices in place. The emplacement devices also may be capable of holding a plurality of retention devices for sequential location on the sclera without the need to remove the emplacement device from the vicinity of the sclera. Methods of the invention include steps required to locate and secure a retention device to scleral tissue. A preferred method includes the following steps. First, the system is provided. Then, retention device(s) are loaded onto/into the emplacement device. Thereafter, the retention device is located in a desired position relative to the scleral of an eye, followed by the activation of the emplacement device to secure scleral tissue between the engagement portions of the retention device.

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First Claim