METHOD OF OPERATING A FLUID PUMP AND OPHTHALMOSURGICAL SYSTEM THEREFOR

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a cassette for a console of an ophthalmic surgical system for treating an eye, wherein the cassette is designed for insertion into a cassette receiving area of ​​the console and has at least one fluid pump for conveying a treatment fluid, wherein the fluid pump has a pump chamber and a drive chamber separated from the pump chamber by means of a separating element that can be deflected at least in some areas, wherein a drive fluid can be supplied to the drive chamber and the treatment fluid can be supplied to the pump chamber.The invention further comprises a console of an ophthalmic surgical system for treating an eye, comprising at least one cassette receiving area for receiving a cassette having at least one fluid pump for conveying a treatment fluid. The fluid pump has a pump chamber and a drive chamber separated from the pump chamber by a separating element that is deflectable at least in some areas. A drive fluid can be supplied to the drive chamber and the treatment fluid to the pump chamber. A drive fluid supply system for supplying the drive fluid to the drive chamber is provided, and a sensor unit is provided for detecting a deflection position of the separating element. Finally, the invention also relates to an ophthalmic surgical system for treating an eye.

[0002] Ophthalmic surgical systems, consoles therefor, and cassettes for insertion into consoles are known in the state of the art, so that in principle there is no need for separate written evidence in this regard. Various surgical techniques are known for the treatment of opacities of the lens of the eye, also known in medicine as cataracts. The most common is phacoemulsification, in which a thin hollow needle is inserted into the capsular bag containing the lens and stimulated to produce ultrasonic vibrations. The vibrating hollow needle can be used to emulsify the lens, with any released lens particles being suctioned away via an aspiration line using a pump. A rinsing fluid, also called irrigation fluid, is supplied. The lens particles are suctioned away together with the fluid as the aspiration fluid.Once the lens is completely emulsified and removed, a new artificial lens can be inserted into the emptied capsular bag. This allows the patient to regain good vision.

[0003] An advanced ophthalmic surgical system that has proven particularly suitable for phacoemulsification is disclosed, for example, in DE 10 2016 201 297 B3. This system utilizes two fluid pumps connected in parallel for irrigation and aspiration. Each fluid pump has a pump chamber and a drive chamber separated from the pump chamber by a separating element. For the intended operation of the fluid pump, the drive chamber is supplied with a drive fluid, the drive pressure of which is varied to execute each pump stroke. As a result, the deflection position of the separating element changes depending on this, which has a corresponding effect on the pump chamber. The pump chamber is supplied with the respective treatment fluid, for example, the irrigation fluid, the aspiration fluid, or the like.The conveying effect can then be achieved by appropriately controlling an inlet and an outlet valve of the fluid pump.

[0004] A deflection position of the separating element is detected by a deflection position sensor assigned to the respective fluid pump. A control device of the ophthalmic surgical system, in particular the console, controls the function of the fluid pump at least depending on a sensor signal from the deflection position sensor and a drive pressure signal provided by a drive pressure sensor. The control device can additionally control the inlet and outlet valves accordingly, for example.

[0005] By alternately operating the two fluid pumps connected in parallel, a flow rate with very low fluctuations can be achieved during surgery. This allows for a nearly constant intraocular pressure in the capsular bag. As long as sufficient irrigation fluid can be supplied, the system can be operated with virtually no interruption in the irrigation fluid flow, even during a very long operation.

[0006] The separating element of each of the fluid pumps is thus not actuated by a plunger or rod, but rather by the drive fluid. This allows for virtually jerk-free and very fast actuation. At the same time, the fluid pump implemented in this way proves to be very low-maintenance and reliable. The ophthalmic surgical system disclosed in DE 10 2016 201 297 B3 is therefore particularly suitable for procedures that require a reaction in the event of a blockage of the needle tip of the hollow needle or the suction opening. Such a condition is also referred to as occlusion. With the ophthalmic surgical system presented in DE 10 2016 201 297 B3, this situation can also be handled very well, so that intraocular pressure can be kept almost constant even in the event of such disruptions during operation.

[0007] For the intended operation of the ophthalmic surgical system, it is desirable to keep the intraocular pressure, especially in the capsular bag, as constant as possible by regulating the pressure of the irrigation fluid and the vacuum of the aspiration fluid. To achieve this, it is desirable to know the pressure of the treatment fluid as accurately as possible so that this pressure can be regulated accordingly.

[0008] In the fluid pump described above, the pressure of the treatment fluid depends on the drive fluid's pressure. Furthermore, there is also a dependency on the properties of the separating element. Due to component variations and tolerances, as well as aging effects due to storage or the like, deviations in the properties occur between different separating elements. These deviations can, for example, relate to a dependency of a pressure difference caused by the separating element on a respective deflection position of the separating element. Such a deviation can lie above a desired accuracy range that is useful for regulating intraocular pressure. Overall, it is desirable to know the deflection position of the separating element as precisely as possible in order to be able to determine, among other things, the pressure of the treatment fluid. In this context, DE 37 16 765 A1 discloses a membrane with a magnet.Furthermore, US 2004 / 0265150 A1 discloses a magnetic membrane system.

[0009] It is therefore the object of the invention to improve a cassette, a console and an ophthalmic surgical system in such a way that the deflection position of the separating element can be better detected, in particular for regulating it with respect to the treatment liquid.

[0010] As a solution, the invention proposes a cassette for a console of an ophthalmic surgical system for treating an eye, a console of an ophthalmic surgical system for treating an eye and an ophthalmic surgical system for treating an eye according to the independent claims.

[0011] Advantageous further training results from features of the dependent claims.

[0012] With regard to a generic cassette for a console of an ophthalmic surgical system for treating an eye, the invention proposes in particular that the separating element has at least one plate element made of an at least electrically conductive or at least ferromagnetic material, which plate element is deflected when at least one region of the separating element is deflected.

[0013] With regard to a generic console of an ophthalmic surgical system for treating an eye, the invention proposes in particular that the sensor unit is designed to detect a deflection position of the plate element of a cassette according to the invention arranged on the separating element using a magnetic field.

[0014] With regard to a generic ophthalmic surgical system for treating an eye, the invention proposes in particular that at least the cassette is designed according to the invention or the console is designed according to the invention.

[0015] The invention is based, among other things, on the idea that the function of the control system for the treatment fluid can be improved if the properties of the fluid pump are better and more precisely known. This relates in particular to the deflection position of the separating element. Since the fluid pump is generally used to convey a medical treatment fluid, pressure sensors for the treatment fluid are often not provided for reasons of hygiene and sustainability. In such a case, a statement about the pressure of the treatment fluid can therefore only be made indirectly, i.e., depending, among other things, on the drive pressure of the drive fluid. The actual pressure of the treatment fluid, on the other hand, does not need to be measured. It is therefore desirable if the specific deflection position of the separating element can be recorded as accurately as possible and taken into account for controlling the fluid pump.The inventive design of the cassette, particularly in conjunction with the console, makes it possible to implement the control function more precisely and thus more purposefully.

[0016] For this purpose, the deflection position of the separating element is detected by means of the console's deflection position sensor when the cassette is arranged in the console. For this purpose, the separating element has the plate element, which can be designed, for example, as a metal plate. The plate element can be designed as a flat, preferably planar, disc. It can have a circumferential edge, which can be at least partially round or square. However, the plate element can also have a predeterminable curvature in the plane, for example in order to be able to support a contour of the separating element, in particular during normal operation. The plate element preferably has two opposing large surfaces, wherein one of the surfaces can be connected to a surface of the separating element. The plate element is preferably arranged on a surface of the separating element that faces the drive chamber.

[0017] Because the separating element comprises at least one electrically conductive or at least one ferromagnetic material, it is possible to detect the position of the plate element and thus the deflection position of the separating element using a magnetic field. For this purpose, the console has the sensor unit, which is preferably designed as an inductive sensor unit, provides a suitable magnetic field and detects properties of the magnetic field that are dependent on the position of the plate element. Depending on the detected magnetic field, the sensor unit can provide a sensor signal, which can be fed to a control device of the console in order to determine the deflection position of the separating element by evaluating the sensor signal. If the material of the plate element is ferromagnetic, it can be provided that the sensor unit uses a substantially constant magnetic field to detect the deflection position.Depending on the design, however, an alternating magnetic field may also be provided. If, however, the material of the plate element is only electrically conductive, preferably only an alternating magnetic field can be provided. Of course, combinations of these can also be provided. The separating element itself is designed to be fluid-tight and ion-tight. This allows a material-tight separation between the pump chamber and the drive chamber to be achieved.

[0018] The invention therefore enables the deflection position of the separating element to be determined contactlessly. Because the sensor unit is arranged in the console and only the plate element needs to be provided in the cassette as a supplement, the invention can be implemented with minimal effort. The effort required for the plate element is comparatively low for the cassette, which is generally implemented as a replaceable, disposable part. The sensor unit arranged in the console, on the other hand, can be used multiple times, so that the overall additional effort can be kept to a minimum. The cassette is preferably designed without a sensor unit.

[0019] The separating element which separates the pump chamber from the drive chamber can be designed as an elastic separating element in the manner of an elastic membrane, a film or the like. In addition, however, the separating element can also be designed to be essentially rigid, at least in certain regions, wherein the rigid region is preferably displaceable. Furthermore, the separating element can, for example, have an edge by means of which it can be firmly connected to the fluid pump. The separating element can, for example, be non-displaceable at its edge in an axial direction which runs parallel to a separating element central axis. In particular, it can be provided that the separating element is firmly clamped at its edge. Preferably, a circumferential edge of the separating element can be firmly arranged or fastened in the fluid pump.As a result, the separating element can fluidically separate the pump chamber from the drive chamber, in particular in such a way that the sterility of the treatment fluid is not impaired.

[0020] Among other things, the fluid pump is preferably completely enclosed by the cassette. This allows the cassette to be detachably connected to the console. In the connected state, the fluid pump can be fluidly coupled by connecting the drive chamber to the console's drive fluid supply system for supplying a drive fluid to the drive chamber. When the cassette is connected to the console, the sensor unit can be positioned in the area of ​​the cassette's fluid pump, thus ensuring reliable operation.

[0021] This allows the cassette to be used as a replaceable or disposable part, which can be used to ensure the sterility of the ophthalmic surgical system for a specific eye operation, particularly with regard to the treatment fluid. This allows the treatment fluid to be passed only through the cassette, meaning that the treatment fluid does not need to flow through the console or come into contact with the console. This allows the sterility of the ophthalmic surgical system to be easily restored at any time after each use of the ophthalmic surgical system by simply replacing the cassette in the console.

[0022] Naturally, when connected to the console, the cassette is provided with a fluid-tight connection to the console, so that the respective drive chamber of the respective fluid pump can be coupled fluid-tight to the drive fluid supply system in order to operate the fluid pump as intended. For example, it can be provided that the cassette, in particular also the fluid pump or the cassette-side elements of the fluid pump, in particular the respective separating element, can be made of a suitable plastic or comparable material.

[0023] The drive fluid which can be supplied to the drive chamber in order to drive the fluid pump can be, for example, a liquid such as water, oil, mixtures of liquids and / or the like, as well as a gas, for example air, nitrogen, a noble gas, mixtures of gases and / or the like, and a combination thereof.

[0024] The drive fluid can preferably be provided exclusively via the console. For this purpose, the drive fluid supply system can, for example, include a drive pressure sensor in the console, which can be used to detect the drive pressure of the drive fluid. Because the drive pressure sensor can be located on the console side, it does not need to meet any special sterility requirements because it does not need to come into contact with the treatment fluid. This allows the drive pressure sensor to be selected with optimized detection functionality.

[0025] Furthermore, the sensor unit is provided on the console side, which serves to detect the deflection position of the separating element. The sensor unit can preferably detect the deflection position of the separating element in a contactless manner. For this purpose, the sensor unit can comprise, for example, an inductive sensor element. The sensor unit can communicate with a control device of the ophthalmic surgical system, in particular the console, either wired or wirelessly, for example via radio or via a communication line. The sensor unit can be designed, for example, as a transponder, in particular as a passive transponder.

[0026] The plate element can have a round and / or angular contour. It is preferably substantially planar or flat. In alternative embodiments, however, the plate element can also be at least partially curved. The plate element is preferably substantially rigid, so that it undergoes little or no deformation during normal operation. As a result, the plate element on the separating element can provide additional stability with regard to deformation. The plate element can also be formed from multiple parts, for example, having a layered structure or the like. Furthermore, the plate element can be formed at least partially from a resilient material.

[0027] The cassette may have a cassette housing, which may be made of a suitable material, such as a plastic or the like. The fluid pump may be formed at least partially integrally with the housing.

[0028] It is further proposed that the plate element have a thickness that is smaller than the thickness of the separating element. This allows the plate element to be arranged, for example, integrated into the separating element. For example, the plate element can be surrounded by a material of the separating element, for example, by being overmolded.

[0029] Furthermore, the plate element is arranged at a distance from a border which holds the separating element. The border can be provided by a housing of the cassette and, for example, have a groove in which an edge of the separating element is fastened. The border is preferably designed such that a fluid-tight separation can be realized between the drive chamber and the pump chamber. To ensure that the fluid-tight separation is not impaired as much as possible, the plate element is arranged at a distance from the border. The border can realize a material-to-material connection between a housing of the cassette and the separating element. Furthermore, it can of course also be provided that the border comprises sealing means which, in addition to a fluid-technical seal, can also provide a holding function for the separating element. A press connection can also be provided.In addition, it can of course also be provided that the separating element is formed in one piece together with the frame and the housing of the cassette.

[0030] The separating element has a receiving area, in particular a central one, on the drive chamber side for arranging the plate element. The receiving area makes it possible for the plate element to be connected to the separating element as a separate part. The separating element and the plate element can thus be manufactured separately from one another. The receiving area can be formed, for example, by a pocket that provides the separating element, in particular on the drive chamber side. The plate element can be inserted into the receiving pocket during manufacture of the cassette. The receiving area is preferably designed to accommodate the plate element. It proves particularly advantageous if the receiving area is arranged centrally with respect to an extension of the separating element.As a result, the plate element can, for example, be arranged substantially centrally with respect to the separating element, whereby the function of the fluid pump can be supported.

[0031] In addition, an annular region runs circumferentially around the receiving region of the separating element. This ensures that at least one region of the separating element remains elastically movable in the circumferential direction, for example in the region of the enclosure, in order to reliably implement the pumping function. At the same time, particularly if the receiving region is arranged centrally, it is possible to achieve reduced elasticity in a central region of the separating element by means of the plate element, whereby the deflection position can be better defined and detected by the sensor unit. Preferably, the annular region has a substantially constant radius in the circumferential direction. The separating element is plate-shaped.

[0032] The plate element can preferably be arranged, in particular fastened, to a surface of the separating element on the working chamber side. The plate element can be fastened to the surface of the separating element, for example, by means of an adhesive connection, a welded connection, or the like. Furthermore, the small thickness of the plate element allows the plate element to be lightweight, so that the function of the fluid pump, in particular of the separating element, is affected as little as possible, preferably essentially not at all, during the intended operation of the fluid pump.

[0033] It is further proposed that the plate element have a coating. The coating can serve to protect the plate element from interactions with the separating element and / or the drive fluid. The coating can therefore, for example, provide a passivating effect. The coating can, for example, be formed by a resin, a plastic, or the like, which is applied to one surface of the plate element or to all surfaces of the plate element. However, the coating can basically also be a chemical layer that realizes a passivating effect, for example in the case of a plate element made of aluminum in combination with a working fluid such as air, wherein an aluminum oxide layer can form as a coating on the surface of the plate element.

[0034] It is further proposed that the separating element have at least one connecting element on the drive chamber side for mechanically connecting the plate element arranged in the receiving area to the separating element. The connecting element preferably enables the plate element to be detachably connected to the separating element. This is particularly advantageous if the cassette is designed as a single-use or disposable part and material separation is to be provided for the purpose of recycling. Furthermore, the connecting element can achieve simple assembly of the plate element to the separating element. For example, the connecting element can mechanically connect the plate element to the separating element at predeterminable positions. However, it can also be provided as a single part that holds the plate element.

[0035] It is further proposed that the at least one connecting element has at least one receiving groove for an edge of the plate element. This allows the plate element to be connected to the separating element by sliding or clipping the edge into the receiving groove. This enables simple assembly, which simultaneously ensures sufficient sterility.

[0036] The ophthalmic surgical system for treating an eye comprises at least one console for receiving a treatment fluid container for containing a treatment fluid. The treatment fluid container can, for example, be an irrigation fluid container with a sufficiently large capacity for an irrigation fluid so that even a longer operation can be performed without changing the treatment fluid container. The same principle can also be applied to a treatment fluid container used to hold the aspiration fluid. The ophthalmic surgical system further comprises a cassette insertable into the console for directing the treatment fluid to the surgical instrument for treating the eye. The cassette is preferably designed such that the treatment fluid does not come into contact with the console.The cassette can be designed as a disposable component so that after use in an operation on one eye it can be replaced for a subsequent operation. This makes it easy to ensure sterility. The ophthalmic surgical system further comprises at least one fluid pump for conveying the treatment fluid during normal operation of the system, which fluid pump is preferably arranged in the cassette. Preferably, at least one fluid pump is provided for conveying the irrigation fluid and at least one pump is provided for conveying the aspiration fluid. Each fluid pump has a pump chamber and a drive chamber separated from the pump chamber by the separating element. The drive chamber can be supplied with the drive fluid, which can be supplied to the drive chamber on the console side. For this purpose, a drive fluid source can be provided which is designed to be adjustable with regard to the drive pressure.The drive pressure can be measured using a drive pressure sensor, which can also be located on the console side. This fluid pump design allows the treatment fluid in the cassette to be routed essentially separately from the console. Only connections for supplying the treatment fluid to the fluid pump and for discharging the treatment fluid from the fluid pump need to be provided on the cassette.

[0037] The ophthalmic surgical system further comprises a sensor unit for detecting the deflection position of the separating element. The sensor unit is preferably arranged on the console side. The sensor unit can preferably be wirelessly communicatively coupled to the control device, in particular the control device of the ophthalmic surgical system, which is preferably arranged in the console.

[0038] The console can also include the control device, which can implement the necessary functions for proper operation and, in particular, for the process control according to the invention. For this purpose, the control device can be connected to the corresponding sensors and drive or control elements.

[0039] The advantages and effects stated for the cassette according to the invention and the console according to the invention naturally also apply equally to the ophthalmic surgical system according to the invention and vice versa.

[0040] Further features of the invention emerge from the claims, the figures and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown alone in the figures can be used not only in the respectively specified combination, but also in other combinations without departing from the scope of the invention. Thus, embodiments are to be regarded as encompassed and disclosed by the invention that are not explicitly shown and explained in the figures, but which emerge and can be produced by separate combinations of features from the explained embodiments. Embodiments and combinations of features are also to be regarded as disclosed which therefore do not have all the features of an originally formulated independent claim.Furthermore, embodiments and combinations of features are to be regarded as disclosed, in particular by the embodiments set out above, which go beyond or deviate from the combinations of features set out in the reliances of the claims.

[0041] The figures show: Fig. 1A schematic representation of a first embodiment of the ophthalmic surgical system according to the invention, Fig. 2a schematic perspective representation of a console of the system according to Fig. 1 , Fig. 3 a schematic plan view of a connection side of a cassette for the system according to Fig. 1 , and Fig. 4 a schematic sectional view of a section of the cassette receiving area of ​​the console according to Fig. 2 arranged cassette according to Fig. 3 .

[0042] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a first embodiment of an ophthalmic surgical system 100 according to the invention. The system 100 has a console 1, to which an irrigation fluid container 2 containing an irrigation fluid 3 is coupled. Furthermore, the system 100 has a cassette 4, which can be inserted into the console 1. In addition to conveying the irrigation fluid 3 to a surgical instrument 5 as a medical treatment instrument, which is used for the phacoemulsification of a lens 7 of an eye 6 as a treatment, the cassette 4 also serves to drain an aspiration fluid resulting from this from a treatment area of ​​the eye 6. The surgical instrument 5 is designed as a handpiece and is used for the phacoemulsification of the lens 7 of the eye 6. Fig. 2 shows a schematic perspective view of the console 1 without the cassette 4. Fig. 3 shows a schematic plan view of a connection side of the cassette 4 for connecting to the console 1.

[0043] The system 100 further comprises an irrigation fluid flow path 8, which extends from the irrigation fluid container 2 via the cassette 4 to the surgical instrument 5. In addition, the system 100 comprises a first fluid pump 10 with a first pump chamber 11 and a first drive chamber 13 separated therefrom by a first separating element 12. The separating element 12 is preferably deformable. The first separating element 12 has an edge 14 by means of which it is firmly connected in the fluid pump 10. The separating element 12 is non-displaceable at its edge 14 in an axial direction running parallel to a separating element center axis. Preferably, the separating element 12 is firmly clamped at its edge 14.

[0044] The irrigation fluid 3 can be supplied to the first pump chamber 11 via the irrigation fluid flow path 8 and a first inlet valve 15, depending on the valve state of the inlet valve 15. Furthermore, it can be discharged from the pump chamber 11 again via an outlet valve 16, depending on the valve state of the outlet valve. The first drive chamber 13 can be supplied with a first drive fluid 17, which can be supplied via a proportional valve 18 arranged in the console 1. Depending on a differential pressure between the first drive fluid 17 in the first drive chamber 13 and the irrigation fluid 3 as treatment fluid in the first pump chamber 11, a partial deflection of the first separating element 12 occurs. The pressure in the first drive chamber 13 is greater than the pressure in the first pump chamber 11.When the inlet valve 15 is closed and the outlet valve 16 is open, the irrigation fluid 3 can flow out of the first pump chamber 11 into a partial path 83 connected to the outlet valve.

[0045] A deflection position of the first separating element 12 can be detected by means of a first deflection position sensor 19, which is arranged outside the first fluid pump 10, for example, in the console 1. The first deflection position sensor 19 is embodied here as a sensor unit in the manner of an inductive displacement sensor. The function of the deflection position sensor 19 will be explained below.

[0046] As from Fig. 1 As can be seen, the drive chamber 13 and the pump chamber 11 with the separating element 12 are arranged in the cassette 4. Thus, by arranging the cassette 4 in the console 1, the fluid pump 10 is coupled to a drive fluid supply of the console 1 and the deflection position sensor 19 arranged in the console 1, so that the desired pumping function and the detection function for detecting the deflection position of the first separating element 12 can be achieved.

[0047] Out of Fig. 1 It is further apparent that a second fluid pump 20 is fluidically connected in parallel to the fluid pump 10. The fluid pump 20 is configured in the present case like the fluid pump 10. Therefore, the irrigation fluid flow path 8 in the cassette 4 is divided into a first partial path 81 and a second partial path 82. The first partial path 81 is connected to the first inlet valve 15, and the second partial path 82 is connected to a second inlet valve 25 of the second fluid pump 20.

[0048] The second fluid pump 20 has a second pump chamber 21 and a second drive chamber 23 separated therefrom by a second separating element 22. The separating element 22 has a second edge 24 that is fixedly mounted in the second fluid pump 20. The second drive chamber 23 can be supplied with a second drive fluid 27 via a second proportional valve 28 arranged in the console 1. A deflection position of the separating element 22 can be detected by means of a deflection position sensor 29, which in this case is designed correspondingly to the deflection position sensor 19. The irrigation fluid 3 can leave the second pump chamber 21 again into the partial path 84 via a second outlet valve 26.Via the partial paths 83, 84, which are connected to the respective first and second outlet valves 16, 26, the irrigation fluid leaving the respective fluid pump 10, 20 can be fed back to the irrigation fluid flow path 8 in order to be fed to the instrument 5.

[0049] In an area of ​​the fluidic connection of the partial path 83 with the partial path 84, for example in the subsequent irrigation fluid flow path 8, an elastic membrane 50 is formed, which can contact the irrigation fluid 3. The membrane 50 is arranged on the cassette 4. The membrane 50 is contacted by a force sensor 51, which in turn is arranged in the console 1 when the cassette 4 is arranged in the cassette receiving area 56 ( Fig. 4 ). The membrane 50, in conjunction with the force sensor 51, forms a detection sensor 52.

[0050] During the comminution of the eye lens 7, small lens particles are released, which can be aspirated together with the supplied irrigation fluid. The irrigation fluid contaminated with lens particles is then referred to as aspiration fluid and is conveyed via an aspiration fluid flow path 9 to an aspiration fluid collection container 53. For this purpose, two additional fluid pumps 30, 40 connected in parallel are provided, which are essentially designed in a similar way to the fluid pumps 10, 20 for the irrigation fluid. For this purpose, it is provided within the cassette 4 that the aspiration flow path 9 is also divided into two partial paths 91, 92, which are connected to the respective fluid pumps 30, 40 via respective inlet valves 35, 45, specifically here to the respective pump chambers 31, 41. Here, too, the pump chambers 31, 41 are separated from the respective drive chambers 33, 43 via respective separating elements 32, 42.The separating elements 32, 42 have respective edges 34, 44, which are fixedly mounted in the respective fluid pump 30, 40. The aspiration fluid can then be discharged via the aspiration fluid flow path 9 via respective outlet valves 36, 46 and connected partial paths 93, 94. A third drive fluid 37 can be guided to the third drive chamber 33 by means of a third proportional valve 38. Correspondingly, a fourth drive fluid 47 can be guided to a fourth drive chamber 43 by means of a fourth proportional valve 48. The proportional valves 38, 48 are arranged in the console 1. The deflection positions of the separating elements 32, 42 can be detected by means of respective deflection position sensors 39, 49. The two fluid pumps 30, 40 are also operated alternately like the fluid pumps 10, 20.

[0051] Fig. 2 shows in a schematic perspective view the console 1 of the ophthalmic surgical system 100 according to Fig. 1 . Out of Fig. 2 It can be seen that the console 1 has the cassette receiving area 56, which serves for the detachable arrangement of the cassette 4. The console 1 further comprises a drive fluid supply system 63, which serves to provide the respective drive fluid for the respective drive chambers 13, 23, 33, 43, which in this case is formed by air. The drive fluid supply system 63 has respective drive fluid sources 17, 27, 37, 47 ( Fig. 1 ), which are connected to the respective proportional valves 18, 28, 38, 48. The respective drive chambers 13, 23, 33, 43 can be supplied with the drive fluid via the proportional valves 18, 28, 38, 48 during normal operation.

[0052] Out of Fig. 1 It is further apparent that each of the separating elements 12, 22, 32, 42 has a plate element 57, which is also deflected when a central region of the separating element 12, 22, 32, 42 is deflected. In this case, the plate element 57 is designed as a metal plate and is made of a ferromagnetic material. The plate element 57 has a thickness that is less than the thickness of the separating element 12, 22, 32, 42.

[0053] The console 1 further comprises a respective deflection position sensor 19, 29, 39, 49 for each of the fluid pumps 10, 20, 30, 40, which in the present case each provides a sensor unit that uses a magnetic field to detect the position of the respective plate element 57 and thus of the respective one of the separating elements 12, 22, 32, 42.

[0054] Fig. 4 shows schematically a section of the cassette holder 56 of the console 1 according to Fig. 2 arranged cassette 4 according to Fig. 3 , namely in the area of ​​the fluid pump 10. The following statements apply equally to the fluid pumps 20, 30, 40. Fig. 4 It can be seen that the plate element 57 is arranged at a distance from a frame 58 of a housing of the cassette 4 (not further designated), which holds the separating element 12.

[0055] The plate element 57 is provided on the drive chamber side of the separating element 12, so that the pump chamber 11 is separated from the plate element 57 by the separating element 12. This is advantageous for reasons of sterility. To protect the plate element 57 from corrosion due to interaction with the drive fluid, the plate element 57 has a coating, which in this case is formed by a resin.

[0056] The separating element 12 has a central receiving area 59 on the drive chamber side for arranging the plate element 57, with an annular area 60 of the separating element 12 extending circumferentially around the receiving area 59. In the present case, the receiving area 59 is positioned in the central area of ​​the separating element 12. This ensures that the separating element 12 can be moved essentially unhindered for its intended pumping function.

[0057] In order to connect the separating element 12 to the plate element 57, it is provided here that the separating element 12 is provided on the drive chamber side with a connecting element 61 for mechanically connecting the plate element 57 arranged in the receiving area 59 to the separating element 12. The connecting element 61 is designed in the manner of a frame that has a receiving groove 62 for an edge of the plate element 57. In particular, this makes it possible, after the cassette 4 has been used, to easily remove the respective plate element 57 from the respective separating element 12, 22, 32, 42 in order to be able to further recycle the materials separately.

[0058] In principle, however, a material-to-material connection can also be provided, in which the plate element 57 is completely surrounded by a material of the separating element 12. This can be achieved, for example, during the manufacture of the separating element 12 by overmolding the plate element 57 with the material or the like. In principle, an adhesive connection between the separating element 12 and the plate element 57 can also be provided. These considerations naturally also apply equally to the other fluid pumps 20, 30, 40.

[0059] The separating element 12 is held in a housing of the cassette 4 in a frame 58. The frame 58 not only seals the pump chamber 11 from the drive chamber 13, but also ensures reliable positioning of the separating element 12 during the intended operation of the fluid pump 10.

[0060] The deflection position sensor 19 is designed here as an inductive sensor that detects the position of the plate element 57, for example, using a substantially constant magnetic field and transmits a corresponding sensor signal to a control device (not shown) of the console 1. The control device of the console 1 can evaluate this signal and control the fluid pump 10 and the associated valves accordingly.

[0061] In this embodiment, the separating element 12 has a geometry similar to that of a circular disk. However, in alternative embodiments, an at least partially angular contour can also be provided. Thus, the plate element can also be rectangular or similar.

[0062] In this embodiment, the separating element 12 further has a curvature in an edge region, which is the annular region 60. Starting from its border 58, the separating element 12 thus does not continue in a flat cross-section, but rather is curved, so that the separating element 12 has a plate-shaped cross-section. This plate-shaped, curved edge region 60 is advantageous because, when drive fluid is supplied to the drive chamber 13, the separating element 12 can bulge out towards an inner wall of the fluid chamber 11 and can lie flat and homogeneously against this inner wall. This allows the treatment fluid contained in the pump chamber 11 to be completely discharged and the pump chamber to be completely emptied. Thus, no residue of treatment fluid remains in the pump chamber 11, so that a maximum delivery volume can be supplied and discharged.In addition, the plate-shaped, curved edge region 60 ensures that the plate element 57 can be moved with high precision along the center axis of the separating element 12, preventing any wobbling of the plate element 57. The separating element 12 is preferably dimensioned such that a spring constant of less than 50 mmHg / 10 mm is achieved.

[0063] The embodiments serve solely to explain the invention and are not intended to limit it. Bezugszeichenliste

[0064] 1 Console 2 Irrigation fluid container 3 Irrigation fluid 4 Cassette 5 Surgical instrument 6 Eye 7 Eye lens 8 Irrigation fluid flow path 9 Aspiration flow path 10 Fluid pump 11 Pump chamber 12 Separator 13 Drive chamber 14 Rim 15 Inlet valve 16 Outlet valve 17 Drive fluid source 18 Proportional valve 19 Deflection position sensor 20 Fluid pump 21 Pump chamber 22 Separator 23 Drive chamber 24 Rim 25 Inlet valve 26 Outlet valve 27 Drive fluid source 28 Proportional valve 29 Deflection position sensor 30 Fluid pump 31 Pump chamber 32 Separator 33 Drive chamber 34 Rim 35 Inlet valve 36 Outlet valve 37Drive fluid source 38Proportional valve 39Deflection position sensor 41Pumping chamber 42Separator 43Drive chamber 44Rim 45Inlet valve 46Outlet valve 47Drive fluid source 48Proportional valve 49Deflection position sensor 50Diaphragm 51Force sensor 52Detection sensor 53Aspiration fluid collection container 54Adjustment device 55Coupling 56Cassette receiving area 57Metal plate 58Bezel59Receiving area 60Ring area 61Connecting element 62Groove 63Drive fluid supply system 81, 82, 83, 84, 91, 92, 93, 94Partial path 100Ophthalmic surgical system

Claims

1. Cartridge (4) for a panel (1) of an ophthalmic surgical system (100) for treating an eye (6), the cartridge (4) being designed for insertion in a cartridge accommodation region (56) of the panel (1) and having at least one fluid pump (10, 20, 30, 40) for conveying a treatment fluid, the fluid pump (10, 20, 30, 40) having a pump chamber (11, 21, 31, 41) and a drive chamber (13, 23, 33, 43) separated from the pump chamber (11, 21, 31, 41) by way of a fluid-tight and ion-tight partition element (12, 22, 32, 42) that is at least regionally deflectable, with a drive fluid being feedable to the drive chamber (13, 23, 33, 43) and the treatment fluid being feedable to the pump chamber, characterized in that the partition element (12, 22, 32, 42) has at least one plate element (57) made of an at least electrically conductive or at least ferromagnetic material, the plate element (57) also being deflected in the case of a deflection of at least one region of the partition element (12, 22, 32, 42) and the plate element (57) being spaced apart from an edging (58) of the partition element (12, 22, 32, 42) that holds the partition element (12, 22, 32, 42) and being arranged in a central accommodation region (59) of the partition element (12, 22, 32, 42), with a ring region (60) running around the accommodation region (59) such that the partition element (12, 22, 32, 42) is in the form of a plate.

2. Cartridge according to Claim 1, characterized in that a thickness of the plate element (57) is smaller than a thickness of the partition element (12, 22, 32, 42).

3. Cartridge according to either one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the plate element (57) has a coating.

4. Cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the partition element (12, 22, 32, 42) has at least one connection element (61) located on the drive chamber side and serving for the mechanical connection of the plate element (57) arranged in the accommodation region (59) to the partition element (12, 22, 32, 42).

5. Cartridge according to Claim 4, characterized in that the at least one connection element (61) has at least one receiving groove (62) for an edge of the plate element (57).

6. Panel (1) of an ophthalmic surgical system (100) for treating an eye (6), at least comprising - a cartridge accommodation region (56) for accommodating a cartridge (4) having at least one fluid pump (10, 20, 30, 40) for conveying a treatment fluid, the fluid pump (10, 20, 30, 40) having a pump chamber (11, 21, 31, 41) and a drive chamber (13, 23, 33, 43) separated from the pump chamber (11, 21, 31, 41) by way of a partition element (12, 22, 32, 42) that is at least regionally deflectable, with a drive fluid being feedable to the drive chamber (13, 23, 33, 43) and the treatment fluid being feedable to the pump chamber, - a drive fluid supply system (63) for feeding the drive fluid into the drive chamber (13, 23, 33, 43), and - a sensor unit (19, 29, 39, 49) for detecting a deflection position of the partition element (12, 22, 32, 42), characterized in that the sensor unit (19, 29, 39, 49) is designed to use a magnetic field to detect a deflection position of the plate element (57) which is part of a cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims and arranged on the partition element (12, 22, 32, 42).

7. Ophthalmic surgical system (100) for treating an eye (6), at least having: - a cartridge (4) insertable in a cartridge accommodation region (56) of a panel (1) and having at least one fluid pump (10, 20, 30, 40) for conveying a treatment fluid, the fluid pump (10, 20, 30, 40) having a pump chamber (11, 21, 31, 41) and a drive chamber (13, 23, 33, 43) separated from the pump chamber (11, 21, 31, 41) by way of a partition element (12, 22, 32, 42) that is at least regionally deflectable, with a drive fluid being feedable to the drive chamber (13, 23, 33, 43) and a treatment fluid being feedable to the pump chamber, - the panel (1) which has the cartridge accommodation region (56) for accommodating the cartridge (4), a drive fluid supply system (3) for feeding a drive fluid into the drive chamber (13, 23, 33, 43) and a sensor unit (19, 29, 39, 49) for detecting a deflection position of the partition element (12, 22, 32, 42), and - an ophthalmic surgical handpiece (5) for treating a crystalline lens (7) of the eye (6), which is able to be coupled to at least the panel (1) or the cartridge (4), characterized in that at least the cartridge (4) is designed according to any one of Claims 1 to 5 or the panel (1) is designed according to Claim 6.