Multi-functional, reusable model eye unit for practice of intraocular examinations and ophthalmic laser procedures

Abstract

To provide a model eye unit that can be used to train and practice multiple laser procedures and ophthalmic examination techniques.SOLUTION: Methods and systems for a model eye unit 100 are provided. In one example, the model eye unit 100 includes a lens assembly removably attached to an anterior scleral casing 104, and a middle section 124 removably coupled to the anterior scleral casing. In the model eye unit, the middle section is removably and height adjustably coupled to a posterior scleral section 110, and the lens assembly includes a cornea lens.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 579,262, entitled "MULTI-FUNCTIONAL REUSABLE MODEL EYE UNIT FOR PRACTICE OF INTRAOCULAR EXAMINATIONS AND OPHTHALMIC LASER PROCEDURES," filed August 28, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0002] The present specification generally relates to a model ocular unit that demonstrates modularity for different treatments. [Background technology]

[0003] Intraocular examination and laser surgery are practices utilized in ophthalmic medical settings. However, students, interns, and residents have limited access to train and practice on live patient models in their particular training environments. These limitations may be due to potential patient safety concerns, anatomically and / or physiologically unsuitable eyes for the procedure, and a small number of patients available for training procedures, among other factors. Some artificial training devices are disposable or designed to be used to train only one type of procedure, requiring separate devices to practice multiple types of techniques.

[0004] Some ophthalmic health care trainees practice basic examination and treatment techniques on hand-made crude devices or flat picture models that allow the trainee to improve their basic equipment use skills. Trainees may also practice on peers or model patients under supervision.

[0005] Ophthalmic training models have also been developed as a means to improve patient examination skills and provide students and practitioners with the ability to perform laser surgery techniques multiple times without the use of cadaveric donor eyes, which require special care for collection, preservation, transport, storage, and disposal. Additionally, training models reduce the reliance on novice trainees and / or live patient volunteers who may experience discomfort or adverse side effects from prolonged examinations. Some artificial model devices are made of various polymeric materials that attempt to mimic the anatomical features of the eye. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 9,336,692 to Stuart Stoll discloses a device that uses a body resembling a human eye with a suction cup that secures the model to a surface for the practitioner to use their own laser surgical equipment. For Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), the main body of the model houses a corneal shell that includes an iris that is welded to the side wall of the unit, and the iris includes a pigmented, angled structure made of a polymeric material that loses its pigment when performing SLT, indicating successful completion of the procedure. The model is filled with water before use, which is accomplished by removing the suction cup base to expose a single opening in the base of the unit that is used to fill and empty the model's fluid contents. Once the iris structure is bleached / burned off, the unit is discarded and a new model eye unit is required for further practice. U.S. Patent No. 9,336,692 also discloses another version of the device for neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) laser capsulotomy. In this device version, one sees a corneal scleral shell containing an iris welded to the side wall of the unit, an anterior capsule membrane, an intraocular lens, and a posterior capsule that responds to the YAG laser. As the laser punctures the posterior capsule, it pierces a hole in the membrane, indicating successful completion of the procedure. The model is filled with water before use, which is accomplished, as in the SLT model, by unscrewing the suction cup base, exposing a single opening in the base of the unit that is used to fill and empty the model's fluid contents. If the artificial capsule breaks, the model eye unit is discarded and a new model eye unit is required for further practice.

[0007] Other attempts have been made to use specialized models for simulation of surgical procedures for cataracts, vitreous retinal detachment and foreign body procedures, penetrating keratoplasty, iris suture, Micro-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS), ocular suture, and enucleation. These ocular devices exist as separate models for specific training applications. Furthermore, many training devices do not have replaceable and interchangeable parts, thereby increasing training expenditures.

[0008] While the aforementioned devices may be proxies for simulating basic anatomical structures and overall surgical outcomes, they are fundamentally designed to perform a single specific type of procedural function. Additionally, there are limitations regarding the variety of techniques that can be demonstrated with currently available models. To train and practice different techniques, multiple model eyes are needed, each for the specific procedure for which it was designed or similar procedures. Additionally, after each laser-affected part of the device is utilized in training, the entire unit is discarded and replaced with a new unit. Although certain devices may have some interchangeable parts, these devices are not modular in that certain structures can be replaced after ophthalmic laser surgery. Additionally, these devices do not provide a design that allows easy access to the internal structure of the model eye to change parts while retaining anatomically correct function and behavior for Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI), Posterior Capsulotomy, Vitreolysis, and Retinal Photocoagulation. Thus, the inventors have recognized the need for reusable and adaptable artificial training and practice tools in ophthalmology. The present inventors have also specifically recognized the need for an ophthalmic model that provides a simulation of scleral indentation testing for trainees to learn and practice without using a live patient model. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] To overcome at least some of the aforementioned challenges, a model ocular unit is provided that can be used to train and practice multiple laser surgery and ophthalmic examination techniques. Procedures include, but are not limited to, SLT, peripheral iridotomy, posterior capsulotomy, vitreolysis, and retinal photocoagulation using established laser surgery equipment and procedures. The model ocular unit can be used with any slit lamp, neodymium-doped YAG laser, and / or argon (e.g., green) ophthalmic laser. The model ocular unit can be utilized with both contact and non-contact fundus lenses to evaluate the anterior and posterior chambers of the model eye. In addition to having the option of different structure sizes and pathologies incorporated into the simulated model components, the device can be reused by replacing post-processed laser-irradiated or damaged components as desired.

[0010] Additionally, the design of the model eye unit allows trainees to practice gonioscopy (using a contact mirror to assess the angle between the cornea and the iris), retinoscopy (using reflected light from a light-emitting scope to determine the refractive power of the eye), and biomicroscopy (slit lamp) viewing using non-contact or contact lenses or with a binocular indirect ophthalmoscope (BIO). It will be possible to practice several examination techniques, including common retinal examination techniques using a ophthalmoscopy. Using the option of a soft / flexible glove material, a procedure called scleral indentation (e.g., scleral compression) may be performed on the model ocular unit, if desired.

[0011] The model ocular unit, in one example, may include a lens assembly removably attached to the anterior scleral casing. In such an example, the model ocular unit further includes a mid-section removably connected to the anterior scleral casing. Further, in the model ocular unit, the mid-section is removably and height-adjustably connected to the posterior scleral section, and the lens assembly includes a corneal lens. In this manner, the highly adaptable model ocular unit includes reusable parts that can be reconfigured for multiple ophthalmic practice and training procedures.

[0012] It should be appreciated that the foregoing summary is provided to introduce in a simplified form a selection of concepts that are further described in the Detailed Description. It is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, the scope of which is defined solely by the claims that follow the Detailed Description. Moreover, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any disadvantages noted above or in any part of this disclosure. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 shows a diagram of a first exemplary model ocular unit. [Figure 1B] 1A-1C show different views of a first exemplary model ocular unit. [Figure 1C] 1A-1C show different views of a first exemplary model ocular unit. [Diagram 2] 1A-1C depict detailed views of components included in the lens assembly of the model ocular unit. [Diagram 3] 1A-1C show detailed views of different components included in the lens assembly of the model ocular unit depicted in FIG. [Figure 4] 1A-1C show detailed views of different components included in the lens assembly of the model ocular unit depicted in FIG. [Diagram 5] 1A-1C show detailed views of different components included in the lens assembly of the model ocular unit depicted in FIG. [Figure 6] 1A-1C show detailed views of different components included in the lens assembly of the model ocular unit depicted in FIG. [Figure 7] 1A-1C show detailed views of different components included in the lens assembly of the model ocular unit depicted in FIG. [Figure 8] 1A-1C show detailed views of different components included in the lens assembly of the model ocular unit depicted in FIG. [Figure 9] 1A-1C show detailed views of different components included in the lens assembly of the model ocular unit depicted in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 shows a detailed view of the anterior scleral casing of the model ocular unit. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 shows a detailed view of the anterior scleral casing of the model ocular unit. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 shows a detailed view of the anterior scleral casing of the model ocular unit. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 shows a diagram of a first example of a mid-section of a model ocular unit. [Figure 14] 1 shows different views of a first example of an intermediate section of a model ocular unit. [Figure 15] 1 shows a second example of a mid-section of a model ocular unit. [Figure 16] 1 shows a first example of a posterior scleral section of a model ocular unit. [Figure 17] 13A-13C show different views of a second example of a posterior scleral section of a model ocular unit. [Figure 18] 13A-13C show different views of another example of a model ocular unit with a slip tube. [Figure 19A] 13A-13C show different views of another example of a model eye unit. [Figure 19B] 13A-13C show different views of another example of a model eye unit. [Figure 20] 19A-19B show a model eye unit used in conjunction with a laser device. [Figure 21]13A-13C show different views of another example of a model ocular unit having a single screw interface between the mid-section and the posterior scleral section. [Figure 22] 13A-13C show different views of another example of a model ocular unit with a slip tube. [Figure 23] 13A-13C show different views of another example of a model eye unit. [Figure 24] 13A-13C show different views of another example of a model eye unit. [Diagram 25] 13A-13C show different views of another example of a model eye unit. [Figure 26] 13A-13C show different views of another example of a model eye unit. [Figure 27] 13A-13C show different views of another example of a model eye unit. [Figure 28] 13A-13C show different views of another example of a model eye unit. [Figure 29] An example of a sticker for the model eye unit is shown. [Diagram 30] 1 shows an example of a sample retina image of a model eye unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] The following description relates to a model eye for use in surgical training procedures. The model eye can be adapted for many different procedures. In one example, the model eye can include an anterior section with internal components used to simulate an iris and an intraocular lens as well as an intraocular lens capsule. In such an example, the model eye further includes a middle section that connects the anterior and posterior segments and allows for elongation of the eye to simulate the anatomical variations in the length of a real patient's eye, and a posterior segment designed to replicate the internal curvature of the retina while providing the ability to fill or drain fluids without opening the unit, if necessary. The model eye can have dimensions and behavior similar to a natural human eye. Furthermore, one purpose of the model eye is to enable practitioners, clinicians, and trainees to perform a variety of training and ophthalmic evaluation procedures typical of optometry and ophthalmology clinical practice in a safe, repeatable, and cost-effective manner.

[0015] Several embodiments of the model eye unit are described herein. For the sake of illustration, three embodiments of the model eye are described herein. However, model eyes having different combinations of features from the three embodiments are contemplated.

[0016] In a first embodiment, FIG. 1A depicts an assembly diagram of a model ocular unit 100. The model ocular unit 100 in the illustrated example includes a lens 102 (e.g., a clear lens) that allows light to pass freely inside the unit. Inside, an iris disk 103 (e.g., an upper iris disk) is visible that fits within an anterior scleral casing 104. The anterior scleral casing 104 may optionally be provided over a middle section 124 that may form a water tight seal that allows fluids to be retained within the unit. A protrusion 108 (e.g., a tab) in the anterior scleral casing 104 allows the anterior portion to be separated from the middle portion using a user's finger. As a result, the eye may be more efficiently assembled and disassembled.

[0017] The intermediate section 124 may be provided inside the posterior scleral section 110, which includes a through hole 112 for mounting the unit to a laser device, or a human head model using hardware, and also serves the purpose of allowing a syringe to be used to inject or remove fluid contents from the model eye unit, if desired, without opening the unit using the protrusion 108. A suction cup 114 may be used to secure the device onto a surface such as an ophthalmic laser unit headrest, a biomicroscope headrest, an examination chair, a wall, etc. However, other suitable unit mounting mechanisms may be utilized in other examples. More generally, the through hole 112 may be used for hardware mounting. In the example shown, the through hole 112 is located on the underside 113 of the posterior scleral section 110. However, other hole locations are possible. The posterior scleral section 110 further includes a curved outer surface 150 in the example shown. Furthermore, in the example shown, the outer surface 117 of the suction cup 114 is vertically tapered.

[0018] Section A-A' represents the cross-section depicted in Figure 1B. Other cross-sections depicted herein are taken along similar sections to section A-A' depicted in Figure 1B.

[0019] Axes are provided in Figures 1A and 1B-28 for reference and where appropriate. The z-axis may be a vertical axis (e.g., parallel to the axis of gravity), the x-axis may be a transverse axis (e.g., horizontal axis), and / or the y-axis may be a longitudinal axis. However, in other examples, alternative orientations of the axes may be employed.

[0020] FIG. 1B shows the model ocular unit 100 in cross section. The lens 102 is attached to the anterior scleral casing 104 forming a watertight seal. In cross section, the iris disc 103 is visible, mounted on a transparent intraocular lens 116 mounted on a thin capsule membrane 118. The intraocular lens 116 and the thin capsule membrane 118 are sandwiched between the iris disc 103 and the intraocular lens retaining disc 120 mounted inside the ridge 122 of the anterior scleral casing 104. The mid-section 124 is shown fully inserted into the posterior scleral section 110 via a double-sided threaded interface 126 found on the mid-section and a matching thread 128 on the posterior scleral section. The threaded interface allows the mid-section 124 to be height adjusted relative to the posterior scleral section 110. In this way, the model ocular unit can be adapted for use in a wider variety of training procedures, thereby increasing the customer appeal of the model ocular unit.

[0021] Visible are the suction cup 114 used in the first embodiment to hold the model ocular unit 100 on the laser / training equipment, and the plug 130 that can be used with a syringe to remove or add fluid into the unit if the user chooses. The plug 130 is thus a removable plug that forms a watertight seal with an opening 131 in the posterior scleral section 110. The plug 130 and opening 131 allow the interior section 133 of the model ocular unit to be filled with fluid, allowing for a more accurate simulation of the procedure. A through hole 132 is included for mounting the model ocular unit 100 with hardware. The central axis of the opening 131 can be angled relative to the longitudinal axis. However, in alternative embodiments, the opening can have another orientation.

[0022] FIG. 1C shows an exploded view of the model ocular unit 100. FIG. 1C illustrates an upper assembly 134 (e.g., lens assembly) of the model ocular unit 100, which includes a lens 102 that simulates a cornea. Thus, the lens 102 may be specifically referred to as a corneal lens. The upper assembly 134 may further include an anterior scleral casing 104, an iris disk 103, an intraocular lens 116, a thin film disk 142, and an intraocular lens holding disk 140. However, as will be discussed in more detail herein, different upper assembly configurations are contemplated. FIG. 1C further illustrates a middle section 124, a posterior scleral section 110, and a suction cup 114. Parts of the lens assembly may be disposable. For example, the iris disk 103, which may include a sticker, may be a disposable component. For example, the iris disk may be laser treated during a procedure and replaced with another iris disk for a subsequent procedure. However, other components of the model ocular unit may be reusable, such as the suction cup 114, the posterior scleral section 110, the mid section 124, and / or the anterior scleral casing 104. Designing the model ocular unit by selecting reusable parts allows for reducing the training costs for trainees. It will be appreciated that the lens assembly may be efficiently replaced to allow the model ocular unit to be used repeatedly for training. Furthermore, the lens assembly may be reconfigured for a variety of different training procedures, as detailed herein, thereby expanding the applicability of the model ocular unit.

[0023] FIG. 2 shows a detailed view of the lens 102 that may simulate the cornea. The lens 102 may be constructed of a polymer and / or other suitable material(s) that allows light to pass through the lens, allowing a clear view of the internal components, and also allows a clear path for the light of the laser instrument to travel without being blocked or deviating from its intended path. The lens 102 is designed and constructed in one example such that it may be placed flush against the top flat surface of the anterior scleral casing 104 so that they may be glued, welded, and / or press-fit in a manner that allows for a watertight seal. In some cases, the lens 102 may be attached to the casing and / or other components using an ultraviolet (UV) curable clear resin and / or other suitable attachment techniques.

[0024] The lens 102 shown in FIG. 2 may be constructed from a polymeric material that allows light to pass freely through the lens, allowing clear viewing of the internal components. The intraocular lens 116 may also be constructed from a suitable polymeric material that allows light to pass through. Additionally, the intraocular lens retaining disk 140, anterior scleral casing 104, posterior scleral section 110, and intermediate section 124 shown in FIGS. 1A-1C may be constructed from one or more polymeric materials that do not allow light to pass therethrough, where appropriate, allowing the components to be removably connected to one another. Furthermore, the suction cup 114 may be constructed from a polymeric material that exhibits a desired amount of elasticity that allows a partial vacuum to be created within the suction cup to hold the model eye in a desired position. Thus, in one example, the suction cup may be constructed from a different polymeric material than the other components of the model eye unit.

[0025] The peripheral edge 201 of the lens 102 is depicted in Figure 2 with a curved upper surface 202. The peripheral edge 201 may be formed for removably attaching to the anterior scleral casing 104, as shown in Figure 1C.

[0026] Inside the anterior scleral casing 104, a series of components can be configured to perform a particular training / practice methodology. An internal set of components 136 is shown in Figures 1B and 1C and will be described in more detail herein.

[0027] FIG. 3 shows a top view of the iris disc 103 in the illustrated example, where a series of arms 300 are visible around the periphery 302. The arms 300 may be designed to fit inside the anterior scleral casing 104 (shown in FIGS. 1A-1C) such that the iris disc 103 is held securely in place against the side of the casing. The arms 300 also function to allow fluid and air to move freely to reach the lens space 200 (shown in FIG. 2) and ensure that there are few or no air bubbles trapped in the lens space when it is filled with fluid. In the center of the iris disc 103 may be a pupil opening 304, which may have a variety of diameters (e.g., 2 millimeters (mm) to 8 mm in one use case) that cover a typical pupillary opening during pupil contraction or dilation. This opening also aids in fluid flow and reduction (e.g., prevention) of air bubble entrapment. The iris disc 103 may have a raised edge 306 on the periphery 302 of the upper side 308, which in one use case may extend approximately 0.5 mm from the plane of the iris disc 103 to mimic the trabecular meshwork of the eye, however, other suitable iris disc dimensions are contemplated.

[0028] A bottom view of iris disc 103 is shown in Figure 4. In particular, arms 300, pupil opening 304 are shown in the example iris disc 103 depicted in Figure 4, and raised ridges are not shown. In the example shown, iris disc 103 includes a substantially planar lower surface 400. However, the iris disc may have other suitable contours in other examples.

[0029] 5 shows a top view of an intraocular lens 116 in which a shaded area 500 (e.g., a dark circular area) represents the elliptical shape of the lens. The shaded area 500 is surrounded circumferentially by a flat structure 502 (which is lighter in color than the shaded area) of the lens in the illustrated embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the intraocular lens 116. A shaded portion 500 showing the lens shape is also depicted in FIG. 6. Furthermore, the flat structure 502 of the lens is formed to fit into the space between the iris disk 103 shown in FIG. 1C and the intraocular lens-holding disk 140 shown in FIG. 1C, allowing the lens side of the intraocular lens to be placed inside the opening of the intraocular lens-holding disk. In one example, the intraocular lens 116 may be constructed from a transparent, relatively hard polymer that allows light to pass freely without diverting from its path. However, in other examples, other suitable intraocular lens structures may be used.

[0031] 7 shows a detailed view of the thin film disk 142 (additionally illustrated in FIG. 1C). In one example, the thin film disk 142 (e.g., a capsular membrane) may be used to mimic the intraocular lens capsule that is affected during a capsulotomy procedure. The material used to construct the thin film disk may be a flexible polymer (e.g., in one use case, a plastic such as low density polyethylene (LDPE)) and / or in one use case, a thin film constructed from waxes and polyolefins such as Parafilm™.

[0032] FIG. 8 shows a top perspective view of an intraocular lens holding disk 140. In the example shown, the intraocular lens holding disk 140 has arms 800 designed to fit inside the anterior scleral casing 104 shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C so as to be held securely in place against the sides of the casing, if necessary. The arms 800 may also serve the function of allowing fluids and air to move freely between the units. In the example shown, the outer periphery 804 of the intraocular lens holding disk 140 has multiple (e.g., four) raised sections 802 (e.g., protrusions). The raised sections 802 are shaped to snap against the arms of the iris disk 103 shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C, while providing pockets for the intraocular lens 116 and thin film disk 142 (e.g., capsule membrane) shown in FIG. 1C so as to be securely installed and held during use. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the intraocular lens-retaining disk 140 may have an opening 806 approximately equal in size to the circumference of the shaded portion 500 of the intraocular lens 116 shown in FIG.

[0033] A bottom view of the intraocular lens-holding disk 140 is shown in Figure 9. For purposes of detail, Figure 9 depicts the arms 800, intraocular lens opening 806, and flat surface 900.

[0034] FIG. 10 shows a top perspective view of an anterior scleral casing 104 designed to mimic the anterior scleral portion of the eye. The anterior scleral casing 104 may be constructed from a translucent flexible polymeric material that, if desired, simulates the behavior of a fluid-filled intraocular pressure and provides tactile feedback to the practitioner. A flat surface 1000 within the anterior scleral casing 104 allows the lens 102 shown in FIG. 1C to be placed and sealed to the anterior scleral casing. Specifically, the lens 102 (shown in FIG. 2) may be designed and constructed such that it may be placed flush against the top flat surface 1000 of the anterior scleral casing 104 such that they may be glued, welded, or press-fit in a manner that allows for a watertight seal. Specifically, in one use case, the lens may be connected to the anterior scleral casing via a UV-curable transparent resin, as previously described.

[0035] Further, in FIG. 10, a first set of internal ridges 1002 (including upper ridge 1003) allows the iris disk 103 (shown in FIG. 1C and FIG. 4) to be provided proximate to the upper end of the internal casing, if desired. Additionally, another ridge 1004 may be positioned below the upper ridge 1003 (e.g., at a distance of 1 mm in one use case) to allow the intraocular lens 116 and thin film disk 142 (e.g., capsule membrane) shown in FIG. 1C to be secured in place between the iris disk 103 and the intraocular lens retaining disk 140 shown in FIG. 1C. The anterior scleral casing 104 may be constructed from a translucent flexible polymeric material that simulates the behavior of a fluid-filled intraocular pressure and provides tactile feedback to the practitioner.

[0036] FIG. 11 shows a bottom perspective view of the anterior scleral casing 104. In this view, a second set of ridges 1100 are visible on the lower inner casing surface 1102. The second set of ridges 1100 function to seal the unit against the mid-section 124 shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C to form a watertight seal. To aid in the insertion and removal of the anterior scleral casing 104, protruding tabs 1104 may be present to allow for the use of fingers, fingernails, and / or tools to aid in separation of the parts without degrading the sealing mechanism. In one example, the anterior scleral casing 104 may be constructed from a semi-rigid elastomeric polymer that provides tactile flexibility to the components, simulating the tactile sensation of the scleral portion of the human eye.

[0037] 12 depicts a cross-sectional view of anterior scleral casing 104 having an upper set of ridges 1002 including upper ridge 1003 and lower ridge 1004. FIG. 12 further illustrates a second set of ridges 1100 (e.g., a lower set of ridges) including ridges 1200 and 1202.

[0038] In all the model ocular unit embodiments described herein, the lens, anterior scleral casing, iris disk, intraocular lens, capsular bag membrane, and intraocular lens disk may be identical (e.g., size, shape, and material structure). However, the model ocular units may differ in the mid-section and posterior casing. The reason for the different model ocular unit embodiments comes from the desire to simulate different anatomical sizes of the human eye, since the distance between the intraocular lens and the retina / optic nerve determines the human visual acuity (hyperopia / myopia). As a result, the ocular unit can be efficiently adapted to different procedures, thereby expanding the applicability of the unit and increasing its customer appeal.

[0039] FIG. 13 shows a top perspective view of the mid-section 124, which in the illustrated example has a cylindrical shape and includes an upper row of ridges 1300 formed to engage with a lower set of ridges 1100 of the anterior scleral casing 104 shown in FIG. 12, forming a watertight seal between the parts.

[0040] Additionally, in the illustrated example, the mid-section 124 has male threads 1302 and female threads 1304 on a double-sided threaded interface 126, which allows the unit to be screwed (e.g., in a clockwise direction) into the posterior scleral section 110 shown in Figures 1B and 1C until the top row of ridges is exposed. However, the mid-section 124 can be designed to simulate the natural elongation of the eye by allowing the mid-section to extend from a desired length (e.g., 0 mm to 10 mm in one use case) by turning it counterclockwise (from a fully inserted position), which results in a diopter change for every 1 mm of eye elongation or contraction (near-sighted or far-sighted), allowing the model to simulate the most common anatomical eye lengths seen in patients around the world.

[0041] 14 shows a cross-sectional view of mid-section 124, including upper ridges 1400 and 1402, male threads 1404, and female threads 1406. Mid-section 124 can be designed and constructed to allow for watertightness to be maintained via a dual-threaded configuration (i.e., male threads 1404 and female threads 1406) even when fully extended (e.g., extended to 10 mm in one use case).

[0042] 15 shows another example of a mid-section 1500 that may replace the mid-section 124 of the model ocular unit 100 (shown in FIGS. 1A-1C) or other model ocular units described herein. The mid-section 1500, in the example shown, retains a ridge in the upper rim 1502, but threads 1504 are present only on the outer surface of the mid-section, with the same effect of allowing the unit to expand within a desired range (e.g., in one use case, 0 mm to 10 mm) and remain sealed.

[0043] Mid-section 1500, in the illustrated example, includes upper ridges 1600 and 1602, and external threads 1504. Mid-section 1500 may be constructed from a hard polymeric material. Thus, the mid-section may be less flexible than anterior scleral casing 104 (shown in FIGS. 10-11). Additionally, mid-section 1500 shown in FIG. 15 may be opaque.

[0044] 16 shows a top perspective view of the posterior scleral section 110. The posterior scleral section 110 may be designed to fit into the screw lock mechanism of the mid section 124 (shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C) by having matching threads in a channel 1700 that allows the mid section to be screwed in and out of the posterior section to a desired length. Male threads 1702 and female threads 1704 can be seen in FIG.

[0045] 16 specifically depicts female mating external threads 1702 and internal threads 1704 designed to mate with the mid-section. The inner surface 1800 of the inner section may also be curved to match the contours of the retina.

[0046] In the illustrated example, the medial surface 1800 of the posterior scleral section 110 includes an opening 1802 (e.g., in one use case, a 2 mm opening at 15 degrees from center) that may be used to fill or drain fluids in the model eye using a syringe or other suitable device, and may be plugged with a plug 1804 if desired. The opening 1802 may be positioned in the same location as the optic nerve, such that in use it is anatomically correct and is an unobtrusive feature that mimics the actual optic nerve when viewed through instrumentation.

[0047] The opening 1802 may be positioned similarly to the optic nerve, if desired, so that in use it is anatomically correct and is an unobtrusive feature that mimics the actual optic nerve when viewed through instrumentation. The outer casing 1806 of the posterior scleral section 110, in one example, may be elliptical in shape to follow the bottom scleral curvature of the eye and may be constructed from the same material (e.g., a hard polymeric material) as the mid section, allowing for a desired fit and visual continuity with the shape of the anterior section.

[0048] In FIG. 16, the posterior scleral section 110 includes an opening 1900 near the bottom that allows for the use of a suction cup 114 (shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C) to secure the assembled model eye unit to a viewing microscope / laser instrument.

[0049] When the suction cup is removed, the user can access the optic nerve opening 1802 (e.g., syringe opening) and use a syringe to fill and drain fluid inside the assembled model eye unit without separating the sections by attaching it to the syringe opening at the bottom 1902 of the opening 1802.

[0050] The outer casing of the posterior scleral section 110 has through holes 1904. The suction cup 114 (shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C) may have corresponding through holes that allow the unit to be mounted with hardware to a vertical or horizontal surface to facilitate surgical practice, or to the eye socket of a full-sized patient head simulation model, depending on the user's requirements.

[0051] In the illustrated example, the outer casing 1906 of the posterior scleral section 110 is elliptical in shape following the bottom scleral curvature of the eye. Additionally, the posterior scleral section 110 may be constructed from the same material as the mid section 1500 (shown in FIG. 15 ) to allow for property matching and visual continuity with the shape of the anterior section. However, in other examples, the posterior and mid sections may be constructed from different materials and / or the outer casings may have different contours.

[0052] Another embodiment of the posterior scleral section 2000 is shown in Figure 17. The posterior scleral section 2000 has a single row of threads 2002 on the outer section of the channel 2004 to match the threads of the single-threaded intermediate section 1500 (shown in Figure 15), allowing the model ocular unit to be expanded to a desired length while retaining watertight properties. The inner surface 2006 of the inner section retains a curvature that matches the contours of the retina and retains a through-hole (similar to the other through-holes described herein) for mounting the unit with hardware.

[0053] In Figure 17, the female mating threads 2002 for the mid-section can be seen. The curvature of the inner surface 2006 is also shown in Figure 17.

[0054] Opening 2100 is further shown in FIG. 17. Opening 2100 may have a diameter of 2 mm at 15 degrees from center in one use case. Opening 2100 may again be used to fill or drain the model eye fluid using a syringe and may be plugged as needed. Opening 2102 allows for the use of a suction cup (e.g., suction cup 114 shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C) to secure the entire assembled unit to a viewing microscope / laser instrument.

[0055] Another embodiment of the posterior scleral section 2200 included in the model ocular unit 2202 is shown (in cross section) in Figure 18. The posterior scleral section 2200 uses a slip tube 2204 that can slide up and down inside the posterior section 2206, which is held in place by threading the middle section 1500 into an exposed internal thread 2208 on the inside wall of the posterior section 2206, which causes the posterior section to deform and shrink the diameter of the opening of the posterior section, and the movement of the slip tube 2204, which has the shape of the retina, is restricted to be positioned by pushing or pulling the slip tube, which can be held in place by a pair of O-rings 2210, which can also be used for friction and water tightness.

[0056] The slip tube 2204 allows the assembled unit to be mounted with hardware to a desired instrument and can hold a through hole to accommodate the suction cup 114. A plug may be used to add or remove material via a syringe and / or other suitable device.

[0057] 18 specifically depicts the internal threads 2208 of the posterior section 2206, which allow the mid section to fit while maintaining a watertight seal. Two channels 2300 and 2302 are present in the lower half of the interior wall of the posterior section 2206, which create a snug fit and watertight seal for the internal components of the model ocular unit and accommodate an O-ring 2210 that helps the internal components stay in the desired position. The retinal curvature 2304 is shown in the slip tube 2204, as well as the optic nerve hole 2306, suction cup chamber 2308, and suction cup 2310 are illustrated in FIG.

[0058] FIG. 18 illustrates the female threads 2208 that match the threads of the single-threaded mid-section 1500 shown in FIG. 15. As shown in FIG. 18, there is less material present than in the double-threaded mid-section 124 (shown in FIG. 13), so when the mid-section is fully screwed into the model ocular unit, the wall 2400 of the posterior section 2206 flexes, reducing the opening 2402 present through which the slip tube 2204 slides. Together with the O-ring 2210, deformation and friction allow the slip tube to stay in the desired position, which is changed by pushing or pulling the slip tube up or down in the opening. The optic nerve hole 2306 is visible in FIG. 18, as is the suction cup cavity 2404 and the suction cup 2310. In the example shown, there is also a through hole in the model ocular unit 2202 for attachment with hardware, as is the plug 2410.

[0059] Each section can contain its own components that allow for Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI), Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (YAG) Capsulotomy, Vitreolysis, and Retinal Photocoagulation training to be performed, and the model eye unit can be assembled with the components and used in the manner described below.

[0060] SLT is a form of laser surgery that targets the angled structures of the eye, where the cornea and iris meet at a specific area called the trabecular meshwork, visualized by this contact angle. It is this contact angle that is assessed in a gonioscopy procedure, whereby a mirror lens is placed on the cornea with contact gel, and the angle is visible through the mirror lens of a slit lamp instrument. And at this angle, the SLT laser surgical procedure uses a gonioscopy lens to create a relatively small opening that allows fluids that have accumulated in the patient's eye to flow back out of the eye, restoring the natural flow of fluids in the eye and reducing pressure.

[0061] For model ocular units used in SLT training or practice, as well as gonioscopy assessment training or practice, the unit may be assembled as shown in Figures 19A-19B. In the example shown, the model ocular unit 2500 includes a lens 102, an anterior scleral casing 104, an iris disc 103, a mid section 124 in a fully inserted position, a posterior scleral section 110 having a thru-hole 112, and a suction cup 114.

[0062] Figure 19A shows an exploded view of the model ocular unit 2500. The lens 102 (which acts as the cornea), the anterior scleral casing 104, the iris disk 103, the mid-section 124 in the fully inserted position, the posterior scleral section 110, the suction cup 114, and the plug 1804 are illustrated in Figure 19B. The model ocular unit 2500 can be assembled with the lens 102 attached to the anterior scleral casing 104 so as to form a watertight seal.

[0063] To insert the iris disc 103 into its desired position, the anterior scleral casing 104 may be inverted and the user may insert the iris disc into a first set of ridges 1002 present in the anterior scleral casing 104, allowing the iris disc to fit securely inside the anterior section cavity. The iris disc 103 may, in some cases, include a sticker image of an iris.

[0064] The iris disc 103 may be designed with a trabecular edge (e.g., a ridge) extending around the circumference of the disc, as previously described. This ridge may be elevated 0.5 mm above the horizontal in one particular use case. Additionally, in one use case, the iris disc itself may have a pupillary opening of 2 mm to 8 mm in diameter to simulate a constricted range to a fully dilated pupil, and a series of curved external arms that allow the disc to be held in place by a pressure fit against the side walls while allowing free flow of fluid (e.g., water and / or other suitable fluids) between the components of the model eye unit. Additionally, the iris disc 103 may have a waterproof sticker with a pupil hole to match the opening of the iris disc attached to its surface to visually emulate the iris during use, e.g., the outer edge of the sticker is modified when a procedure is performed.

[0065] To continue assembling the model ocular unit 2500, the user may then take the posterior scleral section 110 and add a plug 1804 to seal the unit. The male threads of the double-sided threaded interface 126 of the mid-section 124 may then be engaged by the user with the male threads 1702 and female threads 1704 in the channel 1700 of the posterior scleral section 110. In particular, the mid-section 124 may be turned clockwise to screw the mid-section into the posterior scleral section 110 until the desired length is achieved. In this manner, the adaptability of the model ocular unit is improved.

[0066] The posterior scleral section 110 may be flush with the surface 2502 of the mid section 124 when fully inserted, or may extend to a desired length (e.g., in one use case, vertically between 0 mm and 10 mm) while maintaining a watertight seal. FIG. 19B shows the surface 2502 of the mid section 124 flush with the posterior scleral section 110.

[0067] 19A , once the desired length between the mid-section 124 and the posterior scleral section 110 is set, the assembly formed between the posterior scleral section and the mid-section may be placed under water and filled with fluid. While underwater and once air bubbles have been removed, the anterior scleral casing 104 may be pressed into the mid-section 124. In particular, the ridges 1100 in the anterior scleral casing 104 may engage with the upper row of ridges 1300 in the mid-section 124 to form a watertight seal. The anterior scleral casing may be constructed from a flexible material to allow for this engagement. The model eye unit 2500 may then be placed into the laser training device via the suction cup 114 or may be hardware compatible with the training device manufacturer to be placed in the desired position.

[0068] For gonioscopy and SLT, the model eye unit 2500 may be positioned in a plane relative to the slit lamp / laser device 2600 as a human eye would be positioned when a patient is being examined as shown in Figure 20. A contact gel may be placed on the cornea / lens and a laser is used to perform the STL procedure and burn away the trabecular meshwork (i.e., the raised edge 306 (e.g., ridge) on the iris disc 103 shown in Figure 3).

[0069] An STL procedure may be deployed as follows: the clinician can visualize the angle of the trabecular meshwork through an angled lens (gonioscopy procedure), and once the laser is focused on the area on the trabecular meshwork where they want to apply the laser, the SLT laser instrument button can be fired to apply a laser pulse across the lens and burn a hole into the trabecular meshwork at the desired location and angle. In one example, the procedure may be performed in quadrants, for example with 20-30 laser applications per quadrant, or approximately 100 laser applications through 360 degrees of the iris disc.

[0070] For the model ocular unit described herein, the raised edge 306 (e.g., ridge) on the iris disk 103 shown in FIG. 3 may behave in a manner similar to the human trabecular meshwork. In the model ocular unit 2500 shown in FIGS. 19A-19B and 20, directly adjacent to the iris ridge, the sticker may have a thin line of dark brown coloration that may simulate the trabecular meshwork and the target location of the SLT procedure. When the laser hits the pigmented band of the trabecular meshwork, the target area is decolorized and air bubbles may be seen in the fluid of the model ocular unit. This provides physical feedback to the trainee that the correct location was treated with the laser. In a human eye, air bubbles may be visible in the liquid, but decolorization does not occur and may be for training purposes only. Once the SLT procedure is complete, the anterior scleral casing and mid-section may be separated, the burned disk and iris sticker may be removed, a new set may be introduced, and the water-filling procedure described above may be repeated if necessary without discarding any other components or parts of the model ocular unit. In this way, the model ocular unit can be efficiently used for multiple training procedures, thereby increasing customer appeal. Embodiments of the model ocular unit for SLT and gonioscopy procedures are described in more detail herein.

[0071] 21 shows a cross-sectional view of a model ocular unit 2700. In the example shown, the model ocular unit 2700 includes a mid section 1500 with a thread 1504 and a posterior scleral section 2000 with a thread 2002. The model ocular unit 2700 further includes a lens 102 (simulating a cornea), an anterior scleral casing 104, an iris disc 103, a plug 1804, a suction cup 114, and the posterior scleral section 2000 including a through hole.

[0072] FIG. 21 shows a model ocular unit 2700 having a lens 102, an anterior scleral casing 104, an iris disc 103, a mid section 1500, a posterior scleral section 2000, a plug 1804, and a suction cup 114.

[0073] FIG. 22 shows a model ocular unit 2202 having a lens 102, an anterior scleral casing 104, an iris disc 103, a posterior section 2206, a slip tube 2204, a plug 1804, an O-ring 2210, and a suction cup 114.

[0074] The different model eye embodiments may be fitted in a similar manner to model eye 2500 discussed above (shown in FIGS. 19A-19B) and may follow the same assembly, loading, and handling procedures as model eye 2500. However, the mechanisms for extending the length of the different model eye unit embodiments may vary.

[0075] LPI is a procedure that uses a YAG laser device to create a hole in the iris, allowing aqueous humor to move freely from the posterior chamber to the anterior chamber of the eye, relieving pupillary block. The devices disclosed herein may be used to practice peripheral iridotomy by using the same settings as the SLT procedure described above.

[0076] A model ocular unit for use in LPI training or practice can be assembled as shown in FIG. 19A, where the assembled model ocular unit 2500 includes a lens 102, an anterior scleral casing 104, an iris disc 103, an inserted (e.g., fully inserted) mid section 124, a posterior scleral section 110, and a suction cup 114.

[0077] Figure 19B shows an exploded view of the model ocular unit 2500, as previously shown. The lens 102 (which acts as the cornea), the anterior scleral casing 104, the iris disc 103, the mid-section 124 in the fully inserted position, the posterior scleral section 110, the suction cup 114, and the plug 1804 are shown in Figure 19B.

[0078] The model ocular unit 2500 may be assembled using the lens 102 attached to the anterior scleral casing 104, which forms a watertight seal. To insert the iris disk 103 into its desired position, the anterior scleral casing 104 may be inverted and the user inserts the iris disk, which may include a sticker image of an iris, into a first set of ridges 1100 present in the anterior scleral casing, allowing the disk to fit securely inside the anterior section cavity.

[0079] As previously mentioned, the iris disc 103 may be designed with a trabecular meshwork-like ridge extending around the circumference of the disc. This ridge may be elevated 0.5 mm above the horizontal plane in one specific use case. Again, in one use case, the disc itself may have a pupillary opening of 2 mm to 8 mm in the center to simulate a constricted range to a fully dilated pupil, and a series of curved external arms that allow the disc to be held in place by a pressure fit against the side walls while allowing free flow of water / fluid between the components of the model eye unit. The iris disc may have a waterproof sticker with a pupil hole to match the opening of the iris disc attached to its surface to visually emulate the iris during use, and when the procedure is performed, the surface of the sticker is modified, rather than the edge near the trabecular meshwork.

[0080] To continue assembling the model ocular unit 2500, the user can then take the posterior scleral section 110 and add a plug 1804 to seal the unit, placing the threads of the mid-section 124 into the female threaded cavity of the posterior scleral section 110 and turning clockwise to achieve the desired length of insertion of the mid-section inside the posterior section unit. The mid-section 124 may be flush with the posterior scleral section 110 when fully inserted, or may be extended vertically to any length, for example up to 10 mm, while still maintaining a watertight seal. Once the desired length is set, the two sections can be placed underwater and filled with fluid. While underwater and once all air bubbles have been removed, the two sections can be connected by taking the anterior scleral casing 104 and forcing it into the mid-section 124 through the grooves found in the flexible anterior scleral casing and the rigid ridges on the upper outer rim of the mid-section, forming a watertight seal. The model eye unit may then be placed into the laser training device via the suction cup 114 or may be hardware compatible with the training device manufacturer to be placed in the desired position.

[0081] The model ocular unit 2500 may be positioned in a plane relative to the laser device 2600 as a human eye would be positioned if a patient were being examined as shown in FIG. 20. Contact gel may be placed on the lens 102 and the laser may be used to perform the LPI procedure and burn off a hole in the iris disc 103. As the laser strikes the iris sticker and disc, the target area is bleached and air bubbles may be seen in the fluid of the model ocular unit. This provides physical feedback to the trainee that the correct position has been treated with the laser. In a human eye, air bubbles may be visible in the liquid, but no bleaching occurs and may be solely for training purposes. Once the LPI procedure is complete, the anterior scleral casing 104 and posterior scleral section 110 may be separated, the burned disc and iris sticker may be removed, and a new set may be introduced, repeating the water-filling procedure described above, if necessary, without discarding any other components or parts of the unit. Other embodiments of the model ocular unit may be described for LPI in the same manner as SLT and gonioscopy.

[0082] As indicated above, the model ocular unit 2700 shown in Figure 21 includes a single-threaded intermediate section 1500 and a posterior scleral section 2000. The model ocular unit 2700 further includes a lens 102 (simulating the cornea), an anterior scleral casing 104, an iris disc 103, a plug 1804, a suction cup 114, and a posterior scleral section 2000 that includes a through hole.

[0083] Posterior capsulotomy (e.g., YAG capsulotomy) is a laser procedure that can be performed after cataract surgery when the artificial intraocular lens placed within the patient's natural lens capsule becomes cloudy or wrinkled, blurring vision. In a posterior capsulotomy, a laser can be used to create an opening in the clouded capsule, allowing light to pass freely again and restoring clear vision.

[0084] An example of a model ocular unit 3100 is shown in Figure 23. Visible in Figure 23 are the lens 102, the iris disc 103, the anterior scleral casing 104, the mid section 124, the posterior scleral section 110 having a through hole 112, and the suction cup 114.

[0085] FIG. 23 shows an exploded view of the model ocular unit 3100. In detail, the internal components used for practicing and training the posterior capsulotomy are shown in FIG. 23. The model ocular unit 3100 includes, in the example shown in the figure, a lens 102, an iris disk 103, an anterior scleral casing 104, a middle section 124, a posterior scleral section 110 with a through hole 112, and a suction cup 114. The model ocular unit 3100 further includes an intraocular lens 116, a thin film disk 142 (or wax paper) simulating a posterior capsulotomy membrane, and a lens-holding disk 140 surrounded by the anterior scleral casing 104, where the lens and the plastic membrane are placed between the iris disk and the lens-holding disk, which are interlocked with each other via a curved arm 300, allowing the unit to work as a single component when placed inside the internal ridge 1002 of the anterior scleral casing 104, if necessary. This design allows the thin film disk 142 (which functions as a posterior capsulotomy membrane) to be enclosed within an independent chamber approximately 1 mm from the base of the iris disk 103 to simulate the location of the intraocular lens capsule affected by posterior capsulotomy laser surgery in one specific example. This allows the thin film disk 142 (e.g., membrane) to act as an intraocular lens capsule opacification membrane for laser training purposes, if desired. The middle section 124, posterior scleral section 110 with through hole 112, and suction cup 114 are shown in FIG.

[0086] To continue assembling the model ocular unit 3100, the user then takes the posterior scleral section 110, adds a plug 1804 to seal the unit, and places the male threads of the mid-section 124 into the female threaded cavity of the posterior scleral section 110 where the matching threads are found, and turns clockwise to achieve inserting the mid-section to the desired length inside the posterior section unit.

[0087] The unit may be flush with the surface when fully inserted, or as previously described, may be extended vertically to any length up to 10 mm while maintaining a watertight seal. Once the desired length is set, the two sections are placed in water and filled with fluid. While underwater and once all air bubbles have been removed, the two sections are connected by taking the lens 102 attached to the anterior scleral casing 104 with all its internal components (i.e., iris disc 103, intraocular lens 116, intraocular lens holding disc 140, and thin film disc 142) and forcing it into the mid-section through the grooves found in the flexible anterior scleral casing 104 and the rigid ridges on the upper outer rim of the mid-section 124, forming a watertight seal. The model eye unit 3100 may then be placed in the laser training device via the suction cup 114, or may be hardware compatible with the training device manufacturer to be placed in the correct position.

[0088] The model ocular device is positioned in a plane relative to the laser device, as a human eye would be positioned if a patient were being examined. Contact gel may be placed on the cornea / lens, and a YAG capsulotomy procedure is performed. The practitioner can visualize the central white area where the opacity is seen behind the intraocular lens, then focus the laser just behind the membrane and turn on the YAG laser to create a concussive effect that vaporizes the small holes in the cloudy membrane. Similar techniques can be performed with other types of lasers, including multi-pulse laser trabeculoplasty, selective mid-wavelength laser, or argon laser trabeculoplasty, among others.

[0089] Once the YAG capsulotomy procedure is complete, the ocular unit sections can be separated, the burned off membrane can be removed, a new membrane introduced, and the water-fill procedure described above repeated, if necessary, without discarding any other components or parts of the unit.

[0090] 24 illustrates another embodiment of a model ocular unit 3400 that may be utilized for YAG capsulotomy. The model ocular unit 3400 includes a single-threaded mid-section 1500 and a single-threaded posterior scleral section 2000. The model ocular unit 3400 further includes, in the illustrated example, a lens 102, an iris disc 103, an anterior scleral casing 104, an intraocular lens 116, an intraocular lens retaining disc 140, a thin film disc 142, and a suction cup 114.

[0091] 25 shows an exploded view of the model ocular unit 3600. The model ocular unit 3600 includes the lens 102, the iris disc 103, the anterior scleral casing 104, the intraocular lens 116, the intraocular lens retaining disc 140, the thin film disc 142, the mid-section 1500, the slip tube 2204, the posterior section 2206, the O-ring 2210, and the suction cup 114.

[0092] Multiple model eye unit embodiments can be fitted in the same manner and follow the same assembly, loading and operating procedures, the only difference being, in some cases, a mechanism for extending the length of the model eye.

[0093] Vitreolysis may involve the application of nanosecond pulses of low energy laser light to vaporize "floaters" or vitreous opacities. The procedure may be performed using a YAG laser, focusing the laser on vitreous opacities found floating in the vitreous, or on the gel-like material located in the area between the back of the intraocular lens and the retina.

[0094] For the vitreolysis procedure, a model ocular unit 3800 shown in Fig. 26 can be utilized. The model ocular unit 3800 includes a lens 102, an iris disc 103, an anterior scleral casing 104, an intraocular lens 116, a lens retaining disc 140, an intermediate section 124, a posterior scleral section 110 having a through hole 112, and a suction cup 114.

[0095] For vitreolysis, the model ocular unit 3800 may be put together using the lens 102, iris disc 103, anterior scleral casing 104, intraocular lens 116, intraocular lens holding disc 140, mid section 124, posterior scleral section 110, and suction cup 114. Assembly of the model ocular unit 3800 may follow the assembly of the iris disc 103, intraocular lens 116, and lens holding disc 140, while the lens sandwiched between the discs locked together via curved arms 300 allows the unit to function as a single component when placed inside the interior ridge of the anterior scleral casing 104.

[0096] The user may then insert the mid-section 124 by taking the mid-section 124 and screwing the unit into the matching groove in the posterior scleral section 110 to the desired depth. Instead of water, silicone oil or a similar fluid may be used to simulate vitriol, and small particles may be suspended in the neutrally buoyant fluid. The particles may be premixed in the fluid and introduced into the unit by using a syringe opening 1901 (shown in FIG. 26) located at the bottom of the posterior section, or by immersing both halves in vitreous humor containing suspended particles and filling the device in a manner similar to the procedure described for water. The model eye unit 3800 may be dried and placed on a laser device (e.g., laser device 2600 shown in FIG. 20), and in one example, the unit is held in place using a suction cup.

[0097] The clinician can use contact lenses to immobilize the eye, allowing the laser to be focused on the vitreous opacity visible through the pupil opening, and then use a YAG laser to clear the vitreous "floaters" from the eye. Once the procedure is complete, the model eye unit can be separated or the fluid removed using a syringe hole in order to remove and replace the internal material.

[0098] Other embodiments of the model ocular unit are described for vitreolysis as follows: Figure 27 shows a model ocular unit 4100 having a single threaded mid section 1500 and a single threaded posterior scleral section 2000. The model ocular unit 4100 further includes, in the illustrated example, a lens 102, an iris disc 103, an anterior scleral casing 104, an intraocular lens 116, an intraocular lens holding disc 140, and a suction cup 114.

[0099] FIG. 28 shows an exploded view of another example of a model ocular unit 4300, which in the illustrated example includes a lens 102, an iris disc 103, an anterior scleral casing 104, an intraocular lens 116, an intraocular lens retaining disc 140, an intermediate section 1500, a posterior section 2206, a slip tube 2204, a plug 1804, an O-ring 2210, and a suction cup 114.

[0100] Retinal photocoagulation can be used to laser treat leaky retinal blood vessels in certain eye diseases, including diabetes, that affect the retina. To simulate this procedure, the back of the internal model can be printed with one or more examples of anatomically correct retinal images and applied to the scleral backing as a waterproof sticker. The retinal image sticker can be shaped so that it bends with little or no wrinkling when it is placed inside the curved retinal cavity. The shape of the sticker 4500 is shown in FIG. 29 and a sample retinal image 4600 with that shape is shown in FIG. 30.

[0101] The laser may be applied with or without a contact retinal lens for examination and, in some cases, to visualize the retinal laser photocoagulation burn. The printed retinal image may be easily replaced after application of the laser, making it possible to practice this procedure several times. The model eye may also be used for gonioscopy, biomicroscopic fundus evaluation, and / or other suitable examination procedures.

[0102] Gonioscopy may be used to assess the angle between the cornea and the iris using a contact lens with a mirror. The trainee will learn how to apply and use the gonioscopy lens as it can be used in the SLT procedure as described above. The gonioscopy lens can be applied directly to the model cornea with gel, allowing the angle between the cornea and the iris to be seen. The setup for the model eye may use the same setup as the SLT setup, and all images and procedures for setting up the device may be the same as the model eye unit embodiment depicted in Figures 19A-22.

[0103] In biomicroscopic fundus evaluation, the retina (fundus) can be viewed for training purposes by applying an anatomically correct retinal image to a scleral backing and viewing through a slit lamp with a contact or non-contact fundus lens. The retinal image used in the scleral backing may represent normal retinal anatomy or may include various eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, vein occlusion, glaucoma, etc. The printed retinal image can be easily exchanged to allow various diseases to be identified. The retinal image sticker needs to be shaped to bend without any wrinkles when placed inside the curved retinal cavity, in some cases.

[0104] Direct ophthalmoscopy evaluation may be similar to the fundus evaluation described above, except that a handheld ophthalmoscope is used instead of a slit lamp and no secondary lens is utilized. Various retinal images may be applied to the scleral backing to identify normal or abnormal ocular conditions.

[0105] Binocular indirect ophthalmoscopic (BIO) examinations use a device called an indirect biomicroscope, which is mounted on the trainee's head, to focus light into the pupil and onto the retina for examination. Various retinal images may be applied to a scleral backing to identify normal or abnormal eye conditions.

[0106] In scleral indentation, the softer, more flexible material used in the anterior part of the sclera model may be utilized for scleral indentation (also called scleral compression). For this, the trainee applies pressure from the scleral indentation to the anterior scleral casing of the model ocular unit 100 shown in FIG. 1B. The scleral indentation is used to evaluate the peripheral retina by rotating the scleral compression part relative to the sclera to further evaluate retinal pathology. This may be used in conjunction with BIO in some cases. Apart from using a narrower width iris disc to simulate a dilated pupil for this procedure, the setup for the model eye may use the same configuration as the SLT setup, and all images and procedures for setting up the device may be the same for the different model ocular unit embodiments.

[0107] In retinoscopy, the configuration of this anatomically proportioned, fluid-filled ocular device matches the parameters of the human eye, thereby allowing optical assessment of refractive power (amount of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism). This can be accomplished by retinoscopy, where light from a retinoscope is shone into the pupil of a model eye to the back of the model eye, and the movement of the reflected light back through the pupil to the retinoscope is interpreted by an evaluator. A series of ophthalmic trial lenses of various powers can be placed in front of the device to simulate different refractive powers.

[0108] 1A-30 show example configurations with relative positioning of various components. It is noted that the described example multi-chamber container is portable and handheld. Where components in FIG. 1A-30 are shown to be in direct contact or directly connected to one another, then such components may, at least in one example, be referred to as being in direct contact or directly connected, respectively. Similarly, components shown contiguous or adjacent to one another may, at least in one example, be contiguous or adjacent to one another, respectively. As one example, components placed in surface-sharing contact with one another may be referred to as surface-sharing contact. As another example, in at least one example, components positioned apart from one another have only space between them, and other components may not be so referred to. As yet another example, components shown above / below one another, opposite one another, or to the left / right of one another may be so referred to relative to one another. Additionally, as shown in the figures, a top component or point of a component may, at least in one example, be referred to as the "top" of the component, and a bottom component or point of a component may be referred to as the "bottom" of the component. As used herein, top / bottom, upper / lower, above / below are relative to the vertical axis of the drawing and are used to describe the orientation of components of the drawing relative to one another. Thus, in one embodiment, components shown on top of other components are positioned vertically above the other components. As yet another example, the shapes of components depicted in the drawing may be referred to as having those shapes (e.g., circular, rectilinear, flat, curved, rounded, chamfered, angled, etc.). Furthermore, components shown intersecting one another may, at least in one embodiment, be referred to as intersecting components or components intersecting one another. Still further, in one embodiment, components shown within or outside another component may be so referred to.

[0109] It should be noted that the exemplary assembly methods included herein may be used with a variety of model ocular unit configurations. Similarly, it should be noted that the order of assembly steps is not necessarily required to achieve the features and advantages of the exemplary embodiments described herein, but is provided for ease of illustration and description. One or more of the exemplary actions, operations, and / or functions may be performed repeatedly depending on the particular strategy used.

[0110] The present invention is further described in the following paragraphs. In one aspect, a model eye unit is provided, comprising a lens assembly removably attached to an anterior scleral casing and an intermediate section removably connected to the anterior scleral casing, the intermediate section being removably and height-adjustably connected to the posterior scleral section, the lens assembly including a corneal lens. In one example, the lens assembly may include an iris disk. In one example, the lens assembly may include an intraocular lens. In one example, the lens assembly may include an intraocular lens holding disk. In another example, the lens assembly may include a thin film disk. In one example, the iris disk may include a trabecular edge. In one example, the posterior scleral section may include a syringe opening. In one example, the intermediate section and the anterior scleral casing may form a watertight interface. In one example, the posterior scleral section may include a slip tube mated with the posterior section. Furthermore, in one example, the model eye unit may further include a suction cup removably connected to the posterior sclera section.

[0111] In another aspect, a method is provided that includes, in a first procedure, mounting a model ocular unit to a laser device, focusing a laser beam on a first iris disk in a lens assembly of the model ocular unit through operation of the laser device, removing the laser-treated iris disk from the model ocular unit, and reconfiguring the lens assembly for a second procedure. In one example, reconfiguring the lens assembly can include replacing the laser-treated iris disk with a second iris disk. Further, in one example, the first iris disk includes a sticker having an image of an iris. In one example, the method can further include adjusting the height of the mid-section relative to the posterior scleral section in preparation for the second procedure. Still further, in one example, adjusting the height of the mid-section relative to the posterior scleral section can include screwing the mid-section away from the posterior scleral section.

[0112] In another aspect, a model ocular unit is provided, comprising a lens assembly removably attached to the anterior scleral casing via a first set of ridges and a middle section removably connected to the anterior scleral casing via a second set of ridges, the middle section being removably and height-adjustably connected to the posterior scleral section via a threaded interface, the lens assembly including a corneal lens. In one example, the lens assembly may include an iris disk, an intraocular lens, and / or an intraocular lens-holding disk. In another example, the model ocular unit may further include a removable plug that forms a watertight seal with the opening of the posterior scleral section. In another example, the model ocular unit may further include a suction cup removably connected to the posterior scleral section, the removable plug being positioned vertically above the suction cup. In yet another example, the threaded interface is a double-sided threaded interface including an inner thread and an outer thread.

[0113] It will be understood that the configurations and routines disclosed herein are exemplary in nature and that these specific embodiments are not to be considered in a limiting sense, as numerous variations are possible.

[0114] 1A-30 are generally drawn to scale, however, in other embodiments, components may have alternative relative dimensions.

[0115] As used herein, the term "about" is intended to mean plus or minus 5 percent of a range, unless otherwise specified.

[0116] The following claims particularly point out certain combinations and subcombinations that are deemed novel and unobvious. These claims may refer to "a" or "first" element or equivalents. These claims should be understood to include the incorporation of one or more of these elements, and do not require or exclude two or more of these elements. Other combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed features, functions, elements, and / or properties may be claimed through amendment of the claims or through the presentation of new claims in this or a related application. These claims, whether broader, narrower, equal, or different in scope to the original claims, are also considered to be within the subject matter of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A model eye unit, a lens assembly removably attached to the anterior scleral casing; a middle section removably connected to the anterior scleral casing; the intermediate section is removably and height-adjustably connected to the posterior scleral section; A model eye unit, wherein the lens assembly includes a corneal lens.

2. The model eye unit according to claim 1 , wherein the lens assembly includes an iris disc.

3. The model ocular unit of claim 2 , wherein the lens assembly includes an intraocular lens.

4. The model ocular unit according to claim 3 , wherein the lens assembly includes an intraocular lens holding disk.

5. The model eye unit of claim 2 , wherein the lens assembly comprises a thin film disk.

6. The model eye unit of claim 2 , wherein the iris disc includes a trabecular edge.

7. The model ocular unit of claim 1 , wherein the posterior scleral section includes a syringe opening.

8. The model ocular unit according to claim 1 , wherein the intermediate section and the anterior scleral casing form a watertight joint.

9. The model ocular unit of claim 1 , wherein the posterior scleral section includes a slip tube mated with the posterior section.

10. The model ocular unit of claim 1 , further comprising a suction cup removably connected to the posterior sclera section.

11. 1. A method comprising: In a first treatment, a model eye unit is attached to a laser device; focusing a laser beam onto a first iris disk within a lens assembly of the model eye unit through operation of the laser device; Removing the laser treated iris disc from the model eye unit; reconfiguring the lens assembly for a second procedure; and A method comprising:

12. The method of claim 11 , wherein reconfiguring the lens assembly includes replacing the laser treated iris disc with a second iris disc.

13. The method of claim 11 , wherein the first iris disc comprises a sticker having an image of an iris.

14. The method of claim 11 , further comprising adjusting the height of the mid section relative to the posterior scleral section in preparation for the second procedure.

15. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein adjusting the height of the mid section relative to the posterior scleral section comprises screwing the mid section out of the posterior scleral section.

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