Considerations in patenting new surgical devices for glaucoma: The changing patent law landscape

Abstract

The impetus for physicians to participate in the process that translates clinical and benchtop discoveries to commercializable products has arguably never been greater. Medical innovation increasingly provides physicians with an opportunity to create alternative revenue streams. It can also impact career advancement, as many research universities are beginning to consider whether faculty have any patents or pending patent applications, along with more traditional metrics, such as peer-reviewed publications, when making decisions related to professional advancement. Some innovations have been highly successful, such as Dr. Latina's patent on selective laser trabeculoplasty. As the pace of medical innovation increases, the strategic importance of physician involvement with intellectual property management and the commercialization process continues to grow. Recent changes to the patent laws in the United States have increased the physician's opportunity to participate in the patent prosecution and the commercialization process.