Ergonomic branch ceiling-mounted intraocular illumination probe

Abstract

Embodiments disclosed herein provide devices, systems, and methods for illuminating the interior of an eyeball (200). More particularly, the present disclosure relates to an ergonomic branch light illumination system (100) for illuminating a surgical site during ophthalmic surgery, having improved flexibility, profile, and light coupling efficiency. In certain embodiments, a stretchable branch light illumination probe (300) is disclosed, which can be bent by a surgeon to any desired angle. In certain other embodiments, a pre-shaped branch light illumination probe (500) is disclosed, which is pre-set to a desired angle using a heating method. In certain other embodiments, a method for flaring and joining two optical fibers to form a dual-branch light output with improved light coupling efficiency is disclosed, which can be used with a single connector.

Description

[0001] Priority Statement

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 082,521, filed September 24, 2020, entitled “ERGONOMIC CHANDELIER ENDO-ILLUMINATOR PROBE”, by inventors Timothy C. Ryan, Qing Xiang, Randall T. Ige, and Robert Jeffrey Heng, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety as if fully and completely set forth herein. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to apparatus, systems, and methods for illuminating the eye region. More specifically, this disclosure relates to an ergonomic chandelier lighting system for illuminating the surgical site during ophthalmic surgery, the chandelier lighting system having improved flexibility, profile, and light coupling efficiency, and being stable when inserted into the patient's eye. Background Technology

[0004] Chandelier lighting systems can be used to provide static, wide-angle, and uniform intraocular illumination of the surgical site (such as the retina during vitreoretinal surgery). Typically, during bimanual ophthalmic surgery, the chandelier lighting system can be placed through the patient's eye wall (including the sclera) and kept in a position that allows the surgeon to operate with both hands throughout the procedure. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure relates to apparatus, systems, and methods for illuminating the interior of the eye. More particularly, this disclosure relates to an ergonomic chandelier lighting system for illuminating the surgical site during ophthalmic surgery, the chandelier lighting system having improved flexibility, profile, and light coupling efficiency, and being stable when inserted into the patient's eye.

[0006] In some embodiments, a extendable chandelier lighting probe is disclosed. The extendable chandelier lighting probe includes a metal wire, an optical fiber, and a sleeve. The metal wire and optical fiber are housed within the sleeve. The metal wire, optical fiber, and sleeve are joined at a junction. The exposed distal portion of the optical fiber extends out of the sleeve. The metal wire is made of a stretchable material configured to be bent at an angle before or during surgical procedures.

[0007] In some other embodiments, a pre-formed chandelier lighting probe is disclosed. The chandelier lighting probe includes an optical fiber made of a plastic material. The optical fiber has a proximal portion and a distal portion. The portion of the optical fiber between the proximal and distal portions is bent to a predetermined angle between about 70° and about 160° prior to surgery.

[0008] In some other embodiments, a method is disclosed. The method includes: flaring the proximal end of each of a plurality of optical fibers, each of the plurality of optical fibers having a proximal end and a distal end; and combining the flared proximal ends of the plurality of optical fibers into a connector configured to be coupled to a surgical console.

[0009] The following description and accompanying drawings illustrate certain illustrative features of one or more embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0010] The accompanying drawings depict certain aspects of one or more of the disclosed embodiments and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0011] Figure 1 A chandelier lighting system according to certain embodiments of this disclosure is shown.

[0012] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an eye according to certain embodiments of this disclosure is shown, wherein a portion of a chandelier lighting probe is positioned through the eyewall.

[0013] Figures 3A to 3B Cross-sectional views of chandelier lighting probes in straight and bent positions, respectively, according to certain embodiments of this disclosure, are shown.

[0014] Figures 4A to 4B Certain embodiments according to this disclosure are shown. Figures 3A to 3B A schematic diagram of a chandelier lighting probe.

[0015] Figure 5 A chandelier lighting probe according to certain embodiments of this disclosure is shown.

[0016] Figure 6 A chandelier lighting probe and guide needle are shown according to certain embodiments of this disclosure.

[0017] Figures 7A to 7D The intubation assembly and external fixation member according to certain embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0018] Figures 8A to 8D Multiple internal retention members according to certain embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0019] Figures 9A to 9B Cross-sectional and side views of a flared single optical fiber according to certain embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0020] Figures 10A to 10B Cross-sectional and side views of two flared and combined optical fibers according to certain embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0021] Figures 11A to 11B Cross-sectional and side views of two flared and combined optical fibers according to certain embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0022] Figure 12 A single-branch chandelier connector for connection to a surgical console is shown according to certain embodiments of this disclosure.

[0023] Figure 13 A dual-branch chandelier connector for connection to a surgical console is shown according to certain embodiments of this disclosure.

[0024] Figures 14A to 14B Movable stops are shown according to certain embodiments of this disclosure.

[0025] Figures 15A to 15B Removable spacers according to certain embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0026] For ease of understanding, the same reference numerals are used where possible to denote common elements in the figures. It is contemplated that elements and features of one embodiment may be advantageously combined in other embodiments without further description. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The embodiments disclosed herein provide apparatus, systems, and methods for illuminating the interior of the eye. More particularly, this disclosure relates to ergonomic chandelier lighting systems for illuminating surgical sites during ophthalmic surgery, featuring improved flexibility, profile, and optical coupling efficiency. In some embodiments, a extendable chandelier lighting probe is disclosed, which can be bent by the surgeon to a number (e.g., any) desired angle. In some other embodiments, a pre-formed chandelier lighting probe is disclosed, which is preset to a desired angle using a heating method. In still other embodiments, a method is disclosed for flaring and joining two optical fibers to form a dual-chandelier output with improved optical coupling efficiency, which can be used with a single connector.

[0028] As used herein, the term "proximal" refers to a location relative to the device or a portion thereof that, during normal use, is closest to the control console to which the device is attached and furthest from the patient using the device. Conversely, the term "distal" refers to a location relative to the device or a portion thereof that, during normal use, is furthest from the control console and closest to the patient using the device.

[0029] As used herein, the term “small profile” or “improved profile” refers to a device that is smaller, thinner, or more compact than typical devices of its type, thereby reducing, for example, the risk of interference from other objects in the vicinity of the device.

[0030] Figure 1 A chandelier lighting system 100 is shown. The chandelier lighting system 100 includes a chandelier lighting probe 102, which is coupled to a console 104, such as a surgical console used in ophthalmic surgery, including but not limited to consoles sold by Alcon Inc. of Fort Worth, Texas. The chandelier lighting probe 102 includes one or more optical fibers. In some embodiments, the chandelier lighting probe 102 also includes a sleeve and metal wire. The proximal end 112 of the chandelier lighting probe 102 is coupled to the console 104 using a connector 106.

[0031] Console 104 provides the light source, in Figure 1 In this example, the console includes a light engine 108 and an optical focusing element 110. In operation, the light engine 108 emits a light beam, which is then converged and focused by the optical focusing element 110 onto an opening at the proximal end of the connector 106, where the opening exposes the proximal ends of one or more optical fibers within the chandelier illumination probe 102. The chandelier illumination probe 102 is operable to transmit a light beam received from a light source, such that light is projected from the distal end 114 of the chandelier illumination probe to illuminate an area 116, such as illuminating a portion of the eye during ophthalmic surgery.

[0032] For example, Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of eye 200 is shown, in which a portion of chandelier illumination probe 102 is positioned through eyewall 204 to provide a light source in the internal portion of the eyeball. The distal end 114 of chandelier illumination probe 102 illuminates the internal region of eye 200 using a beam of light having an exemplary width 208.

[0033] Figures 3A to 3B Cross-sectional views of the extendable chandelier lighting probe 300 are shown in both its straight and bent positions. Figures 4A to 4B A schematic perspective view of an extendable chandelier lighting probe 300 is shown. Figures 3A to 4BIn some embodiments, the extendable chandelier lighting probe 300 includes a metal wire 302 and an optical fiber 304, which are housed in a sleeve 306. In some embodiments, the metal wire 302 and the optical fiber 304 are bonded together inside the sleeve 306, for example, using an adhesive.

[0034] The material and dimensions of each of the metal wire 302, optical fiber 304, and sleeve 306 are selected to make the extendable chandelier illumination probe 300 small in profile, lightweight, flexible, and simultaneously strong enough to maintain its shape and position when inserted into the patient's eye. This allows the surgeon to bend the extendable chandelier illumination probe 300 into many (e.g., any) desired angles or shapes before or during the surgical procedure, ensuring that the probe does not interfere with other instruments near the surgical site and maintains its position and shape inside and outside the user's eye during the procedure, thus freeing the surgeon's hands to perform the remainder of the surgical procedure. In some embodiments, the metal wire 302 comprises a stretchable material, while the optical fiber 304 and sleeve 306 are made of any suitable flexible material. In these embodiments, because the metal wire 302 is stretchable, it presents a desired angle when bent by the surgeon. Typically, the optical fiber (e.g., optical fiber 304) has inherent shape memory. According to certain embodiments of this disclosure, since the flexible optical fiber 304 and sleeve 306 are coupled to the stretchable metal wire 302, the optical fiber 304 and sleeve 306 also advantageously present a desired angle and / or shape. The surgeon determines the desired angle and / or shape based on various considerations, including but not limited to the presence and location of other instruments and apparatus during ophthalmic surgery and the anatomy of the patient's face and eyes.

[0035] As described above, the metal wire 302 is made of any suitable stretchable material. An example of a suitable stretchable material is stainless steel. In some embodiments, the diameter of the metal wire 302 is between about 0.1 mm and about 0.5 mm, such as between about 1 / 8th of an inch and about 15 thou (or between about 0.2 mm and about 0.4 mm), for example, about 0.3 mm.

[0036] In some embodiments, the sleeve 306 is made of any suitable flexible thin-walled material. Examples of suitable flexible materials include, but are not limited to, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) / Pebax, polyethylene, and silicone. In some embodiments, the sleeve 306 has a diameter between about 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm, for example, about 1.00 mm. In some embodiments, the sleeve 306 has a hardness between about 30 Shore hardness (D) and about 40 D, for example, about 35 D. In some embodiments, the sleeve 306 has a wall thickness between about 8 Thou and about 10 Thou, or between about 0.05 mm and about 0.1 mm, for example, about 0.08 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness of the metal wire 302 is approximately between about 8 Thou and about 15 Thou (or between about 0.2 mm and about 0.4 mm). In some embodiments, this choice of material and size for the metal wire 302 and the sleeve 306 makes the chandelier lighting probe 300 easy to form and strong enough to maintain the formed fiber shape. In some embodiments, in addition to or instead of using the stretchable wire 302, the sleeve 306 itself is made of a stretchable material. In some other embodiments, the stretchable wire 302 and the sleeve 306 may be co-extruded or braided, making the sleeve 306 stretchable. In some embodiments, when using the stretchable sleeve 306, the stretchable chandelier lighting probe 300 may no longer include the stretchable wire 302. In some other embodiments, both the wire 302 and the sleeve 306 are stretchable. The optical fiber 304 comprises any suitable flexible material (e.g., poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA or acrylic)) used for providing illumination inside a patient's eye, for example, during ophthalmic surgery. In some embodiments, the optical fiber 304 is between about 300 micrometers and about 500 micrometers, such as about 400 micrometers.

[0037] In some embodiments, this choice of material and size for the wire 302 and sleeve 306 makes the chandelier lighting probe 300 easy to form and robust enough to hold any shape formed. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the material and size of the wire 302 and sleeve 306 reduce the overall mass of the chandelier lighting probe 300 by eliminating the need for a hub at its termination compared to conventional chandelier lighting probes.

[0038] The metal wire 302, optical fiber 304, and sleeve 306 are joined together at a junction 308, for example, using an adhesive. As shown in FIG3, in some embodiments, the junction 308 is at the distal end of the sleeve 306. An exposed portion 309 of the optical fiber 304 extends beyond the junction 308 from the sleeve 306. The exposed portion 309 terminates at the distal end 310 of the optical fiber 304, from which light is projected to illuminate the area during operation.

[0039] The chandelier illumination probe 300 also includes a movable stop 312, which is a small, sliding disc used to prevent the chandelier illumination probe 300 from advancing too far into or through the patient's eye. The movable stop 312 is movable in the vertical direction (y) along the length of the exposed portion 309 of the optical fiber 304 between the junction 308 and the distal end 310. In some embodiments, the movable stop 312 can move vertically when a force is applied to overcome friction between the movable stop 312 and the optical fiber 304 along which it is positioned. In some examples, the surgeon moves the movable stop 312 along the exposed portion 309 to the desired position using their hand or a tool (such as forceps). Due to the material of the movable stop 312, there is friction between the movable stop 312 and the optical fiber 304. The distance between the movable stop 312 and the distal end 310 of the optical fiber 304 is selected (this distance is variable) based on various considerations, such as the desired illumination placement or the diameter of the patient's eye. When the chandelier illumination probe 300 is inserted into the patient's eye, it is prevented from advancing further due to friction between the movable stop 312 and the optical fiber 304 when the distal side of the movable stop 312 contacts the eye wall or the cannula of the cannula assembly. Therefore, the movable stop 312 allows the chandelier illumination probe 300 to be configured for variable insertion depth. In some embodiments, the stop 312 is envisioned to be fixed.

[0040] Figure 5 A pre-formed chandelier illumination probe 500 is shown, which is bent at a predetermined angle along its length. The pre-formed chandelier illumination probe 500 includes an optical fiber 502 having a proximal portion 516 and a distal portion 514. The optical fiber 502 is any suitable optical fiber, such as a plastic optical fiber, used to provide illumination inside a patient's eye, for example, during ophthalmic surgery, and can be bent during a heating method (i.e., thermal bending). More specifically, in some embodiments, the optical fiber 502 of the chandelier illumination probe 500 is selected such that when a portion of the fiber is locally heated, that portion can be bent at a defined angle between about 70° and about 160°. The applied heating temperature should be sufficient to bend the optical fiber 502. In some embodiments, the heating temperature is between about 200°F and about 450°F, and the heating lasts between about 5 seconds and about 20 seconds (other heating temperatures and times are also contemplated as needed to bend the optical fiber). Heating temperature and time are related; the higher the heating temperature, the shorter the heating time, and vice versa. In some embodiments, optical fiber 502 is poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA or acrylic) optical fiber. As shown, optical fiber 502 is bent at or near the distal portion 514.

[0041] Once the local heating method is applied to set the chandelier lighting probe 500 at the desired angle, the straight-line memory of the optical fiber 502 is eliminated, and the chandelier lighting probe 500 retains its bent shape. In some embodiments, the angle of the pre-formed chandelier lighting probe 500 cannot be changed unless another heating method is applied to reshape the angle.

[0042] Similar to the extendable chandelier illumination probe 300, the pre-formed chandelier illumination probe 500 includes a movable stop 512, which is a small, sliding disc used to prevent the chandelier illumination probe 500 from advancing too far into or through the patient's eye. The movable stop 512 is movable in the vertical (y) direction along the distal portion 514 of the optical fiber 504. More specifically, the movable stop 512 is movable vertically when a force is applied to overcome friction between the movable stop 512 and the optical fiber 502 along which it is positioned. In some examples, the surgeon moves the movable stop 512 along the distal portion 514 to the desired position using their hand or a tool (such as forceps). The distance between the movable stop 512 and the distal end 510 of the optical fiber 504 (this distance is variable) can be selected based on various considerations, such as the desired illumination point or the diameter of the patient's eye. When the chandelier illumination probe 500 is inserted through the patient's eye wall, it is prevented from advancing further due to friction between the movable stop 512 and the optical fiber 504 when the distal side of the movable stop 512 contacts the eye wall or the cannula of the cannula assembly. Therefore, the movable stop 512 allows the chandelier illumination probe 500 to be configured for variable insertion depth. In some embodiments, the stop is envisioned to be fixed.

[0043] During procedures (such as ophthalmic surgery), a chandelier illumination probe (such as chandelier illumination probe 300 or chandelier illumination probe 500) is inserted through the patient's eye wall. The disclosed chandelier illumination probes are advantageously insertable using various cannulation methods and / or non-cannulation methods. In some embodiments, such as... Figure 6As shown, a chandelier illumination probe 600 (such as chandelier illumination probe 300 or chandelier illumination probe 500) is inserted through the patient's eye wall using a guide needle 610. In some embodiments, the guide needle 610 is a separate instrument not attached to the chandelier illumination probe 600. In some embodiments, the guide needle 610 and the chandelier illumination probe 600 are combined as a single unit, such that the guide needle 610 and the chandelier illumination probe 600 are inserted together into the patient's eye, and then the guide needle 610 is withdrawn, but the chandelier illumination probe 600 remains in the patient's eye. The guide needle 610 punctures an incision through the patient's eye wall (through which the chandelier illumination probe 600 can be inserted), and then guides the chandelier illumination probe 600 through the incision and into the patient's eyeball. This use of the guide needle (such as guide needle 610) is an example of a method of insertion without intubation. Instead of or in addition to using the guide needle 610, in some other embodiments, the sharp distal tip of the chandelier illumination probe 600 may be used to pierce the patient's eye wall, and then the remainder of the chandelier illumination probe 600 may be inserted through it.

[0044] Alternatively, the disclosed chandelier illumination probe (such as chandelier illumination probes 300 and 500) can be inserted through the patient's eye wall using a cannula. In this method, a cannula is first inserted through the patient's eye wall, and then the chandelier illumination probe is inserted through the cannula.

[0045] Figures 7A to 7B The illustration depicts an intubation assembly 702 and an external retention member 704, which are detachably connected to each other. Figure 7C An external retention member 704 is shown, which is fixedly connected to a chandelier lighting probe 720 such that the distal portion of the exposed optical fiber 722 extends through and beyond the external retention member 704.

[0046] The cannulation assembly 702 is used in conjunction with a cannula to create an incision in the eye through which the cannulation assembly 702 is guided, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. The cannulation assembly 702 can then remain in the eye throughout the ophthalmic procedure to prevent surgical instruments inserted into the eye via the cannulation assembly 702 from repeatedly contacting the sidewalls of the incision.

[0047] In some embodiments, the cannulation assembly 702 includes a cannula 706 and a cannula hub 708. The cannula 706 has openings 710 and 712 at both ends, which are connected by a hollow passage. In some embodiments, a valve covers the cannula hub 708. For example, the cannula hub 708 may include a valve in its central portion, aligned with the opening of the cannula 706, through which a trocar for inserting a cannula-guided system 700 through the eye can be withdrawn. In some other embodiments, the cannula hub 708 does not have a valve.

[0048] In some embodiments, the external retention member 704 includes a proximal cylindrical portion 716 and a distal connecting portion 718. As described above, the proximal cylindrical portion 716 and the distal connecting portion 718 have a passageway through which the exposed optical fiber 722 of the chandelier lighting probe 720 is located during the manufacturing process. Figure 7C The distal portion of the fiber 722 (as shown) is disposed through the passage. Then, the exposed fiber 722 is fixedly connected to the outer retaining member 704 such that a portion of the exposed fiber 722 extends beyond the outer retaining member 704.

[0049] During the procedure, the surgeon inserts at least partially the distal connecting portion 718 of the chandelier illumination probe 720 into the cannulation assembly 702, and then attaches the external retention member 704 to the cannulation seat 708. In some embodiments, attaching the chandelier illumination probe to the cannulation assembly 702 in this manner ensures that the chandelier illumination probe 720 remains in place and is not accidentally pulled out, for example, by a very small force.

[0050] like Figure 7BAs shown, the external retention member 704 is detachably connected to the cannula assembly 702, for example, using a snap-fit ​​mechanism, through which the distal connection portion 718 slides onto and connects to the cannula seat 708. More specifically, the distal connection portion 718 of the external retention member 704 is connected to the outer surface of the cannula seat 708. For example, in some embodiments, the outer diameter of the circular edge 714 of the cannula seat 708 is slightly larger than the inner diameter of the opening of the distal connection portion 718. As shown, the distal connection portion 718 includes a slit 724 that allows the circular opening or inner diameter of the distal connection portion 718 to enlarge or expand. Thus, as the distal connection portion 718 presses against the circular edge 714, the opening of the distal connection portion 718 expands and receives the circular edge 714, thereby allowing the distal connection portion 718 to slide onto and connect to the cannula seat 708. In some embodiments, while the attachment of the distal connection portion 718 and the insertion socket 708 protects the chandelier lighting probe from accidental pull-out, the distal connection portion 718 and the insertion socket 708 are configured to separate in response to a large pulling force applied to the chandelier lighting probe. In this embodiment, when excessive pulling force is applied to the chandelier lighting probe, the opening of the distal connection portion 718 expands again and releases the rounded edge 714.

[0051] In some alternative embodiments, the distal connection portion of the external retention member (e.g., external retention member 704) includes a molded, overlying elastic element 728 fitted over the cannula seat 730, such as... Figure 7D As shown. Similar to the distal connection portion 718, the overmolded elastic member 728 provides a mechanism for detachably connecting the external retention member 704 to a cannula (e.g., cannula 706). The overmolded elastic member 728 is flexible rather than rigid.

[0052] Figure 8A The internal retention member 800a was shown. Figure 8B An internal retention member 800a is shown, which is fixedly coupled to a chandelier lighting probe 820 such that the distal portion of the exposed optical fiber 822 extends through and beyond the internal retention member 800a. In some embodiments, the internal retention member 800a includes a passage extending from a proximal end 802 to a distal end 804, which aligns with the cannula 706 and the cannula seat 708 of the cannula assembly 702, through which the exposed optical fiber 822 extends, such as... Figure 8B As shown. The outer diameter of the proximal portion 806 is larger than the diameter of the distal portion 808. Like the outer retention member 704, the inner retention member 800a has a proximal end 802 and a distal end 804, the distal end of which is detachably connected to a cannulation assembly (such as cannulation assembly 702).

[0053] More specifically, when the distal end 804 of the internal retention member 800a is inserted into the opening of the cannula seat 708, the stop 810a of the distal end 804 is engaged with the cannula seat 708. As shown, the cannula seat 708 includes an opening 726 with a valve through which the distal end 804 of the internal retention member 800a is inserted. When the distal end 804 is fully pushed past the valve and into the opening 726, the stop 810a of the distal end 804 then serves to retain the distal end 804 in the cannula seat 708. More specifically, in response to slight and / or accidental pulling forces, the valve abuts against the stop 810a, thereby ensuring that the distal end 804 is not pulled out. In some embodiments, while the attached internal retention member 800a and the insertion socket 708 protect the chandelier lighting probe from accidental pull-out, the internal retention member 800a and the insertion socket 708 are configured to separate in response to a large pulling force applied to the chandelier lighting probe. In this embodiment, when an excessive pulling force is applied to the chandelier lighting probe, the valve opens upward and releases the stop 810a.

[0054] In some embodiments, such as in Figures 8C to 8D As observed, the depth to which the exposed optical fiber 822 extends below the distal end 804 (the distal end of the last internal retention member 800b added to the internal retention member 800a) can be altered using additional (multiple) internal retention members 800b. This change in depth signifies a change in the length of the optical fiber extending through the cannulation assembly and into the eye (allowing the surgeon to move the fiber tip to the desired depth within the eye). As in... Figures 8C to 8D As observed, an additional internal retaining member 800b is used by engaging the stop 810a of the upper internal retaining member 800a with the opening 802b of the lower internal retaining member 800b. The additional internal retaining member can be added by sequentially engaging the stop 810a and the opening 802b when adding the internal retaining member. The stop 810a can engage the opening 802b via a frictional fit, which can be overcome by pulling the internal retaining members 800a and 800b apart. Other stop / retention configurations are also possible. For example, a small stop (not shown) can extend from the top portion of 800b to engage in a receiving recess (also not shown) on the bottom surface of 800a. These stops / recesses can also engage via a frictional fit.

[0055] In addition to the flexible and small-profile improved formable chandelier lighting system described herein, this disclosure also envisions methods for flaring and combining optical fibers to improve optical coupling efficiency and reduce fiber position sensitivity, and to provide a dual-chandelier system using a single connector. According to embodiments of this disclosure, flaring of one or more optical fibers (e.g., multiple optical fibers) is accomplished by heating the ends(s) of one or more optical fibers until the ends are “flared” or opened to an expanded diameter. More specifically, when heated, the plastic optical fiber shortens and expands, thereby increasing the diameter of each of the one or more optical fibers. In cases where the one or more optical fibers can be formed by heating, after the one or more optical fibers have been flared, the flared proximal ends(s) are then pulled back through an opening (e.g., an opening at the proximal end of a connector for connection to a surgical console (e.g., connector 106)). Once the flared fiber has been pulled back into the opening, the diameter of one or more flared portions of the fiber becomes equal to or smaller than the diameter of the opening from which the one or more flared fibers were withdrawn, but larger than the unflared portion of the fiber.

[0056] The increased diameter after flaring is approximately 1.5 to 2 times the original diameter of the optical fiber. According to embodiments of this disclosure, the near end of the optical fiber is heated. In operation, the increased diameter at the near end of one or more optical fibers corresponds to an increase in optical coupling efficiency of the light source and reduces fiber position sensitivity. In some embodiments, the increased diameter of the flared optical fiber can be matched to the beam width provided by the light source through a connector to increase the photopic flux of the flared optical fiber compared to conventional chandelier lighting systems.

[0057] It is conceivable that the stretchable and preformed optical fibers disclosed herein can be expanded and combined according to certain embodiments of this disclosure.

[0058] Figures 9A to 9B The images show a cross-sectional view and a side view of a single 900mm fiber after flaring. Figure 9A As shown, the near end 902 of optical fiber 900 is flared according to the method disclosed herein, such that the diameter of the near end 902 is larger than the diameter of the far end 904. Therefore, the optical coupling efficiency of the flared near end 902 is improved, and the fiber position sensitivity is reduced. When drawn into an opening with a desired diameter (e.g., ... Figure 12 After the opening 916 at the proximal end of the single-branch chandelier connector 1200 (i.e., the connector configured to connect the optical fiber of a chandelier lighting probe to the surgical console), the flared proximal end 902 has the same dimensions, shape, and diameter as the opening 916 through which the flared proximal end is withdrawn, as shown. Figure 9BAs shown. In some embodiments, the single-branch chandelier connector 1200 is used to connect a flared single optical fiber 900 to a surgical console (e.g., Figure 1 The surgical console 104 shown is connected.

[0059] Figures 10A to 10B The images show cross-sectional and side views of two flared and combined optical fibers, 1010 and 1020. Figure 10A As shown, the near ends 1012 and 1022 of optical fibers 1010 and 1020 have been flared according to the method disclosed herein, such that the diameter of the circular near ends 1012 and 1022 of the combined near ends is larger than the diameter of the distal portions 1014 and 1024. Therefore, the optical coupling efficiency of the flared near ends 1012 and 1022 is improved. Figure 10B As shown, when drawn into an opening with a desired diameter (e.g., Figure 13 The proximal opening 1016 of the illustrated dual-chandelier connector 1300 (i.e., the connector configured to connect the optical fibers of two chandelier illumination probes to the surgical console) is used to connect with the surgical console (e.g., Figure 1 After the control console 104 shown is connected, the flared proximal ends 1012 and 1022 are combined, and have the same dimensions, shape, and diameter as the opening 1016 through which they are withdrawn. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the single-branch chandelier connector 1200 can also be used to connect the optical fibers 1010 and 1020 to the surgical control console. Figure 10B In the example shown, each of the proximal ends 1012 and 1022 has a D-shaped cross-section, which together fill the opening and present the same shape, size, and diameter as the opening 1016 of the dual-branch chandelier connector. In operation, the distal portions 1014 and 1024 remain uncombined, allowing the two individual optical fibers 1010 and 1020 to form a dual-branch chandelier system that can be used to illuminate areas (such as surgical sites within a patient's eye) even when using a single-branch chandelier connector.

[0060] Figures 11A to 11B The images show cross-sectional and side views of two flared and combined optical fibers, 1110 and 1120. Figure 11A As shown, the near ends 1112 and 1122 of optical fibers 1110 and 1120 have been flared according to the method disclosed herein, such that the diameters of the near ends 1112 and 1122 are larger than the diameters of the distal portions 1114 and 1124, respectively. Therefore, the optical coupling efficiency of the flared near ends 1112 and 1122 is improved. Figure 11B As shown, it is inserted into an opening with a desired diameter (e.g., for use with a surgical console). Figure 1 The chandelier connector (e.g., the one shown on the console 104) is connected to the control panel. Figure 13 After the chandelier connector 1300 shown has its opening, the flared proximal ends 1112 and 1122 are arranged side-by-side within the opening through which they are withdrawn. Figure 11B In the example shown, each of the proximal ends 1112, 1122 has an enlarged diameter and is positioned side-by-side within the diameter of the opening 1116 of the bi-branch chandelier connector. In operation, the distal portions 1114, 1124 remain uncombined, such that the two individual optical fibers 1110 and 1120 form a bi-branch chandelier system that can be used to illuminate an area (such as a surgical site within a patient's eye). It should be noted that in some embodiments, the bi-branch chandelier connector (e.g., bi-branch chandelier connector 1300) may have different proximal opening diameters to accommodate flared proximal ends of different sizes of optical fibers (e.g., fiber 1012 / 1022 or fiber 1112 / 1114).

[0061] Figures 14A to 14B A movable stop 1400 is shown as an embodiment of certain other embodiments of this disclosure. The movable stop 1400, which can be used in place of movable stops 312 and 512, is configured to press against an optical fiber disposed therein and allow for tolerances based on the inherent tolerances of the optical fiber. The movable stop 1400 comprises a flexible material. In operation, when an optical fiber is pushed through the movable stop 1400 (e.g., through a centrally located opening 1402), the walls of three compliant members (e.g., posts 1404, 1406, and 1408) flex and obstruct the inner diameter of the centrally located opening 1402. The compliant members engage the outer diameter of the optical fiber disposed therein to provide a stopping mechanism for preventing the optical fiber from advancing too far into the patient's eye. More specifically, the flexure of the compliant members increases friction between the movable stop 1400 and the optical fiber disposed through the movable stop to prevent the user from pushing the optical fiber excessively into the patient's eye. Similarly, the flexure of the compliant member provides enhanced retention of the optical fiber during surgery. In some embodiments, movable stops 312 and 512 may be configured with similar compliant members.

[0062] Figures 15A to 15B A removable spacer 1500 and a chandelier lighting probe 1502 are shown according to certain embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 15AAs shown, the spacer 1500 is positioned along the chandelier illumination probe 1502 such that the proximal end of the spacer contacts the distal end of the sleeve 1506. As shown, the distal portion of the exposed optical fiber 1504 extends through and beyond the spacer 1500. In operation, during ophthalmic surgery, the desired insertion depth of the optical fiber ranges from approximately 2.5 mm to approximately 6 mm depending on the length of the cannula. The spacer 1500 is removable such that, for example, if the desired insertion depth is between 2 mm and 4 mm, the spacer 1500 can be approximately 2 mm. In this example, when the spacer 1500 is positioned over the exposed optical fiber 1504, the portion of the optical fiber 1504 exposed for insertion is 2 mm, suitable for a desired insertion depth of 2 mm into the patient's eye. Figure 15A As shown. If a 4mm insertion is desired, the removable spacer 1500 is removed (e.g., through a slit in the side of the spacer 1500), leaving the exposed fiber optic cable 1504 with a 4mm protrusion for insertion into the patient's eye, as shown. Figure 15B As shown. The length of the removable spacer 1500 is between approximately 2 mm and approximately 4 mm.

[0063] In some embodiments, the disclosed ergonomic chandelier lighting system is lightweight, flexible enough to be formed into any desired shape, and has a small profile to prevent interference with optical microscopes or other instruments positioned on or around the patient's eye during ophthalmic surgery. Furthermore, the disclosed ergonomic chandelier lighting system is suitable for insertion into the patient's eye with and / or without intubation.

[0064] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the disclosed method advantageously flares and joins the two optical fibers together at the near end, resulting in a single connector at the near end and two separate chandeliers at the far end.

[0065] Accordingly, apparatus, systems, and methods are provided for providing improved illumination to areas within the eye (e.g., to the surgical site) during ophthalmic surgery, as the disclosed chandelier lighting system has improved flexibility, profile, and light coupling efficiency.

[0066] Example Implementation

[0067] Example 1: A chandelier lighting probe comprising: a metal wire; an optical fiber; and a sleeve. The metal wire and the optical fiber are housed within the sleeve. The metal wire, the optical fiber, and the sleeve are joined at a junction. The exposed distal portion of the optical fiber extends beyond the distal end of the sleeve. The metal wire includes a stretchable material configured to be bent at an angle before or during surgical procedures.

[0068] Example 2: A chandelier lighting probe as described in Example 1, wherein: the chandelier lighting probe is fixedly connected to an external retention member, the external retention member is configured to be detachably connected to an insertion tube assembly, and when the external retention member is connected to the insertion tube assembly, the external retention member holds the chandelier lighting probe within the insertion tube assembly when at least a certain amount of tension is applied to the chandelier lighting probe.

[0069] Example 3: A chandelier lighting probe as described in Example 2, wherein the circular edge of the insertion socket is disposed in a slit in the distal connection portion, thereby providing a snap-fit ​​engagement between the distal connection portion of the external retention member and the insertion socket.

[0070] Example 4: A chandelier lighting probe as described in Example 1, wherein: the chandelier lighting probe is fixedly connected to an inner retention member, the inner retention member is configured to be detachably connected to a cannula assembly, and when the inner retention member is connected to the cannula assembly, the inner retention member retains the chandelier lighting probe within the cannula assembly when at least a certain amount of tension is applied to the chandelier lighting probe.

[0071] Example 5: A chandelier lighting probe as described in Example 4, wherein when the distal end of the internal retention member is inserted into the opening of the insertion socket, the stop portion at the distal end is connected to the insertion socket.

[0072] The foregoing description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various embodiments described herein. Various modifications to these embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other embodiments. Therefore, the claims are not intended to limit themselves to the embodiments shown herein, but are given the full scope consistent with the language of the claims.

Claims

1. A chandelier lighting probe, the chandelier lighting probe comprising: Metal wire; optical fiber; Sleeve, wherein: The metal wire and the optical fiber are housed within the sleeve. The metal wire, the optical fiber, and the sleeve are joined at the joint. The exposed distal portion of the optical fiber extends beyond the distal end of the sleeve, and The metal wire includes a stretchable material configured to be bent at an angle before or during surgery; as well as An internal retention member is fixedly connected to the chandelier lighting probe, and the internal retention member includes a stop located at its distal end. The stop is configured to detachably connect the internal retention member to the cannulation assembly.

2. The chandelier lighting probe as described in claim 1, in, The diameter of the metal wire is between 0.1 mm and 0.5 mm; and The diameter of the sleeve is between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm.

3. The chandelier lighting probe of claim 1, further comprising a movable stop disposed between the joint and the distal end of the exposed distal portion of the optical fiber, the movable stop comprising one or more compliant members disposed in the movable stop and configured to increase friction between the movable stop and the optical fiber.

4. The chandelier lighting probe as described in claim 1, in, When the internal retention member is connected to the cannula assembly, the internal retention member holds the chandelier lighting probe within the cannula assembly when at least a certain amount of tension is applied to the chandelier lighting probe.

5. The chandelier lighting probe as described in claim 1, wherein the chandelier lighting probe further comprises: The internal retention member is a first internal retention member, wherein the chandelier lighting probe is fixedly connected to the first internal retention member; The chandelier lighting probe further includes: A second internal retention member, wherein the second internal retention member is configured to be detachably coupled to the first internal retention member, and wherein the optical fiber extends through both the first internal retention member and the second internal retention member; The second internal retention member is configured to be detachably connected to the cannulation assembly, and When the second internal retention member is connected to the cannula assembly, the second internal retention member retains the chandelier lighting probe within the cannula assembly when at least a certain amount of tension is applied to the chandelier lighting probe.

6. The chandelier lighting probe of claim 1, further comprising a removable spacer, the proximal end of the removable spacer being configured to contact the distal end of the sleeve, and wherein, The length of the removable spacer is between 2 mm and 4 mm.

7. The chandelier lighting probe as described in claim 1, wherein, The near end of the optical fiber is flared.

8. The chandelier illumination probe of claim 1, further comprising a guide needle configured to form an opening in the patient's eye wall, through which the chandelier illumination probe is inserted.

9. The chandelier lighting probe as described in claim 1, The optical fiber has a proximal portion and a distal portion, and The portion of the optical fiber between the proximal and distal portions is bent to a predetermined angle between 70° and 160° prior to surgery.

10. The chandelier lighting probe as described in claim 8, wherein, The optical fiber is bent using a heat-heating method.

11. The chandelier lighting probe of claim 9, further comprising a movable stop disposed along a distal portion of the optical fiber, the movable stop being configured to move vertically along the length of the distal portion.

12. The chandelier lighting probe as described in claim 9, wherein, The proximal portion of the optical fiber is flared.

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