Patterning optical radiation onto a cornea

Abstract

A system (20) for treating an eye (21) includes a radiation generator (22) configured to generate optical radiation and one or more optical elements (24) configured to pattern the optical radiation, onto a cornea (23) of the eye (21), in a pattern (49) that includes one or more rings (50), such that the optical radiation etches the pattern (49) into the cornea (23). Other embodiments are also described.

Description

[0001] PATTERNING OPTICAL RADIATION ONTO A CORNEA

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] The present application claims priority to US Provisional Application 63 / 688,382, filed August 29, 2024, entitled "Patterning device for pattern creation in eye region."

[0004] FIELD OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to medical systems and methods, and specifically to systems and methods for vision correction.

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007] Various eye conditions are known to limit vision. Such eye conditions generally include nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, and aging of the eye (typically associated with presbyopia). Typically, such eye conditions are corrected using glasses, contact lenses, or intraocular lenses (IOLS). Another, promising corrective technique uses nanoparticles in the superficial layers of the cornea to modify the refractive index of the cornea.

[0008] SUMMARY

[0009] There is provided, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a system for treating an eye. The system includes a radiation generator configured to generate optical radiation, and one or more optical elements configured to pattern the optical radiation, onto a cornea of the eye, in a pattern that includes one or more rings, such that the optical radiation etches the pattern into the cornea.

[0010] In some embodiments, the optical elements are configured to pattern the optical radiation onto the cornea such that rays of the optical radiation arrive in parallel at the cornea.

[0011] In some embodiments, the optical elements are configured to pattern the optical radiation onto the cornea such that rays of the optical radiation are perpendicular to a surface of the cornea by virtue of being directed toward a center of curvature of the cornea.

[0012] In some embodiments, the optical elements include: a patterning element, configured to pattern the optical radiation in an initial pattern; and one or more imaging optics configured to form an image of the initial pattern on the cornea.

[0013] In some embodiments, the pattern includes multiple concentric rings. In some embodiments, the pattern includes 3-6 concentric rings.

[0014] In some embodiments, the pattern includes four concentric rings.

[0015] In some embodiments, an inner diameter of an innermost one of the rings is between 1.15 and 1.23 mm, and an outer diameter of the innermost one of the rings is between 1.64 and 1.72 mm.

[0016] In some embodiments, an inner diameter of a second-to-innermost one of the rings is between 2.02 and 2.1 mm, and an outer diameter of the second-to-innermost one of the rings is between 2.34 and 2.42 mm.

[0017] In some embodiments, an inner diameter of a second-to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.62 and 2.7 mm, and an outer diameter of the second-to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.88 and 2.96 mm.

[0018] In some embodiments, an inner diameter of an outermost one of the rings is between 3.11 and 3.19 mm, and an outer diameter of the outermost one of the rings is between 3.33 and 3.41 mm.

[0019] In some embodiments, the system further includes a radiation generator unit including the radiation generator and at least one of the optical elements.

[0020] In some embodiments, the system further includes a contact assembly configured to contact the eye while the optical radiation is generated, and at least one of the optical elements is embedded in the contact assembly.

[0021] In some embodiments, the optical elements include a mask including one or more ringshaped regions corresponding to the rings of the pattern and having a property, with respect to the optical radiation, that other regions of the mask do not have, the property being selected from the group consisting of: transmissivity and reflectivity.

[0022] In some embodiments, the optical elements include a phase and / or amplitude shift mask configured to pattern the optical radiation by diffracting the optical radiation.

[0023] In some embodiments, the optical elements include a diffractive optical element configured to pattern the optical radiation by diffracting the optical radiation.

[0024] In some embodiments, the optical elements include a spatial light modulator.

[0025] In some embodiments, the optical elements include a meta optic.

[0026] In some embodiments, the system further includes a holder configured to hold at least one of the optical elements over the cornea while the optical radiation is generated. In some embodiments, the system further includes an imaging sensor configured to sense visible or near infrared light reflected from the eye, and the at least one of the optical elements is transparent to the visible or near infrared light.

[0027] In some embodiments, the holder includes a handle shaped to define a suction lumen, and the holder is for use with a suctioning device configured to apply suction via the suction lumen.

[0028] In some embodiments, the holder includes a cylinder and one or more internal arms configured to hold the at least one of the optical elements within an interior space of the cylinder.

[0029] In some embodiments, the cylinder is shaped to define a side opening, and the holder is for use with: a suction tube configured to fit into the side opening, and a suctioning device configured to apply suction via the suction tube.

[0030] In some embodiments, the system is for use with a tool shaped to define an interior space and configured for placement on the eye such that the interior space is above the cornea, and the system further includes an adapter configured to fit onto the tool and to hold at least one of the optical elements within or over the interior space while on the tool, thereby adapting the tool for use in patterning the optical radiation.

[0031] In some embodiments, the tool includes a corneal refractive surgery well.

[0032] In some embodiments, the tool includes a suction ring.

[0033] In some embodiments, the adapter includes: a wider piece including a rim and configured to fit onto the tool; and a narrower piece configured for placement on the rim and configured to hold the at least one of the optical elements such that a position of the at least one of the optical elements is adjustable by sliding the narrower piece along the rim.

[0034] In some embodiments, the wider piece further includes multiple stoppers disposed at an outer perimeter of the rim and configured to inhibit the narrower piece from sliding off the rim.

[0035] In some embodiments, the narrower piece includes a frame, which is configured to sit on the rim, and at least one arm, which protrudes from the frame and is configured to hold the at least one of the optical elements.

[0036] In some embodiments, the system further includes a contact lens for wearing over the eye prior to the treatment, the contact lens including: a substrate material; and a light-affecting material coupled to the substrate material in the pattern.

[0037] In some embodiments, the light-affecting material includes nanoparticles.

[0038] In some embodiments, the light-affecting material includes a colorant.

[0039] In some embodiments, the substrate material is shaped to define one or more grooves corresponding to the rings, and the light-affecting material fills the grooves.

[0040] In some embodiments, the light-affecting material is printed or imprinted onto the substrate material.

[0041] There is further provided, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a method for treating an eye. The method includes, using a radiation generator, generating optical radiation, and using one or more optical elements, patterning the optical radiation, onto a cornea of the eye, in a pattern that includes one or more rings, such that the optical radiation etches the pattern into the cornea.

[0042] In some embodiments, wherein the eye is presbyopic.

[0043] There is further provided, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus for treating an eye, the apparatus being for use with a radiation generator configured to generate optical radiation and a tool shaped to define an interior space and configured for placement on the eye such that the interior space is above a cornea of the eye. The apparatus includes one or more optical elements configured to pattern the optical radiation, onto the cornea of the eye, in a pattern, such that the optical radiation etches the pattern into the cornea, and an adapter configured to fit onto the tool and to hold at least one of the optical elements within or over the interior space while on the tool, thereby adapting the tool for use in patterning the optical radiation.

[0044] In some embodiments, the tool includes a corneal refractive surgery well.

[0045] In some embodiments, the tool includes a suction ring.

[0046] In some embodiments, the optical elements are configured to pattern the optical radiation onto the cornea such that rays of the optical radiation arrive in parallel at the cornea.

[0047] In some embodiments, the optical elements are configured to pattern the optical radiation onto the cornea such that rays of the optical radiation are perpendicular to a surface of the cornea by virtue of being directed toward a center of curvature of the cornea.

[0048] In some embodiments, the optical elements include: a paterning element, configured to patern the optical radiation in an initial pattern; and one or more imaging optics configured to form an image of the initial patern on the cornea, and the adapter is configured to hold at least one of the imaging optics.

[0049] In some embodiments, the patern includes multiple concentric rings.

[0050] In some embodiments, the patern includes 3-6 concentric rings.

[0051] In some embodiments, the patern includes four concentric rings.

[0052] In some embodiments, an inner diameter of an innermost one of the rings is between 1.15 and 1.23 mm, and an outer diameter of the innermost one of the rings is between 1.64 and 1.72 mm.

[0053] In some embodiments, an inner diameter of a second-to-innermost one of the rings is between 2.02 and 2.1 mm, and an outer diameter of the second-to-innermost one of the rings is between 2.34 and 2.42 mm.

[0054] In some embodiments, an inner diameter of a second-to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.62 and 2.7 mm, and an outer diameter of the second-to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.88 and 2.96 mm.

[0055] In some embodiments, an inner diameter of an outermost one of the rings is between 3.11 and 3.19 mm, and an outer diameter of the outermost one of the rings is between 3.33 and 3.41 mm.

[0056] In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes a radiation generator unit including the radiation generator and at least one of the optical elements.

[0057] In some embodiments, the optical elements include a mask including one or more regions corresponding to the patern and having a property, with respect to the optical radiation, that other regions of the mask do not have, the property being selected from the group consisting of: transmissivity and reflectivity, and wherein the adapter is configured to hold the mask.

[0058] In some embodiments, the optical elements include a phase and / or amplitude shift mask configured to patern the optical radiation by diffracting the optical radiation, and the adapter is configured to hold the phase and / or amplitude shift mask.

[0059] In some embodiments, the optical elements include a diffractive optical element configured to patern the optical radiation by diffracting the optical radiation, and the adapter is configured to hold the diffractive optical element. In some embodiments, the optical elements include a spatial light modulator, and the adapter is configured to hold the spatial light modulator.

[0060] In some embodiments, the optical elements include a meta optic, and the adapter is configured to hold the meta optic.

[0061] In some embodiments, the adapter includes: a wider piece including a rim and configured to fit onto the tool; and a narrower piece configured for placement on the rim and configured to hold the at least one of the optical elements such that a position of the at least one of the optical elements is adjustable by sliding the narrower piece along the rim.

[0062] In some embodiments, the wider piece further includes multiple stoppers disposed at an outer perimeter of the rim and configured to inhibit the narrower piece from sliding off the rim.

[0063] In some embodiments, the narrower piece includes a frame, which is configured to sit on the rim, and at least one arm, which protrudes from the frame and is configured to hold the at least one of the optical elements.

[0064] There is further provided, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a method for treating an eye, the method being for use with a radiation generator configured to generate optical radiation and a tool shaped to define an interior space and configured for placement on the eye such that the interior space is above a cornea of the eye. The method includes fitting an adapter, which holds at least one of one or more optical elements, onto the tool such that the adapter holds the at least one of the optical elements within or over the interior space, and using the optical elements, patterning the optical radiation, onto the cornea of the eye, in a pattern, such that the optical radiation etches the pattern into the cornea.

[0065] In some embodiments, the eye is presbyopic.

[0066] In some embodiments, the adapter includes a wider piece, which includes a rim, and a narrower piece, which holds the at least one of the optical elements, and fitting the adapter onto the tool includes: fitting the wider piece onto the tool; placing the narrower piece on the rim; and adjusting a position of the at least one of the optical elements by sliding the narrower piece along the rim. There is further provided, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a contact lens for wearing over an eye prior to a treatment in which a pattern is etched into a cornea of the eye. The contact lens includes a substrate material and a light-affecting material coupled to the substrate material in the pattern.

[0067] In some embodiments, the light-affecting material includes nanoparticles.

[0068] In some embodiments, the light-affecting material includes a colorant.

[0069] In some embodiments, the substrate material is shaped to define one or more grooves arranged in the pattern, and the light-affecting material fills the grooves.

[0070] In some embodiments, the light-affecting material is printed or imprinted onto the substrate material.

[0071] In some embodiments, the pattern includes multiple concentric rings.

[0072] In some embodiments, the pattern includes 3-6 concentric rings.

[0073] In some embodiments, the pattern includes four concentric rings.

[0074] In some embodiments, an inner diameter of an innermost one of the rings is between 1.15 and 1.23 mm, and an outer diameter of the innermost one of the rings is between 1.64 and 1.72 mm.

[0075] In some embodiments, an inner diameter of a second-to-innermost one of the rings is between 2.02 and 2.1 mm, and an outer diameter of the second-to-innermost one of the rings is between 2.34 and 2.42 mm.

[0076] In some embodiments, an inner diameter of a second-to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.62 and 2.7 mm, and an outer diameter of the second-to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.88 and 2.96 mm.

[0077] In some embodiments, an inner diameter of an outermost one of the rings is between 3.11 and 3.19 mm, and an outer diameter of the outermost one of the rings is between 3.33 and 3.41 mm.

[0078] There is further provided, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a method for treating an eye, including etching four concentric rings in a cornea of the eye and filling the rings with nanoparticles. An inner diameter of an innermost one of the rings is between 1.15 and 1.23 mm, an outer diameter of the innermost one of the rings is between 1.64 and 1.72 mm, an inner diameter of a second-to-innermost one of the rings is between 2.02 and 2.1 mm, an outer diameter of the second-to-innermost one of the rings is between 2.34 and 2.42 mm, an inner diameter of a second-to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.62 and 2.7 mm, an outer diameter of the second-to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.88 and 2.96 mm, an inner diameter of an outermost one of the rings is between 3.11 and 3.19 mm, and an outer diameter of the outermost one of the rings is between 3.33 and 3.41 mm.

[0079] In some embodiments, the eye is presbyopic.

[0080] The present invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, taken together with the drawings, in which:

[0081] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0082] Figure l is a schematic illustration of a system for treating an eye of a patient, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0083] Figures 2A, 2B, and 2C illustrate different types of imaging performed by imaging optics, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;

[0084] Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of a mask embedded in a contact assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0085] Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of a holder configured to hold at least one optical element over a cornea, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0086] Figure 5A is a schematic illustration of another holder, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0087] Figure 5B shows an exploded view of the distal end of the holder shown in Fig. 5A, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0088] Figure 6A is a schematic illustration of another holder, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0089] Figure 6B shows an overhead view of the holder shown in Fig. 6A, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0090] Figure 6C shows an exploded view of the holder shown in Fig. 6A, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0091] Figure 7A is a schematic illustration of another holder, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0092] Figure 7B shows an overhead view of the holder shown in Fig. 7A, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention; Figure 8 is a schematic illustration of an apparatus for wearing over an eye, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention; and

[0093] Fig. 9 is a schematic illustration of an example pattern etched into a cornea, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0094] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0095] OVERVIEW

[0096] As described, for example, in US Patent 12,171,692, whose disclosure is incorporated herein by reference, some vision-correction procedures require etching a pattern, such as a Fresnel zone plate ring pattern, onto the surface of the cornea and then filling the etched pattern with nanoparticles. However, current flying spot refractive laser systems, some of which use a ~lmm spot size beam with a Gaussian shape, lack the resolution to etch these patterns.

[0097] To address this challenge, embodiments of the present invention provide one or more optical elements configured to pattern optical radiation, onto the cornea, in a pattern, such as a pattern including one or more rings, e.g., a Fresnel zone plate ring pattern. Thus, advantageously, even a larger beam size can be used to etch the pattern. Furthermore, the optical elements help protect the eye from any errant steering of the beam. Moreover, by reducing the amount of required steering of the beam (e.g., by eliminating to the need for any steering), the optical elements reduce the complexity of the treatment system and / or the duration of the procedure.

[0098] In some embodiments, the optical elements comprise a mask, diffractive optical element, or meta optic having a fixed structure configured to pattern the optical radiation in a particular way, e.g., via amplitude and / or phase modulation. Alternatively or additionally, the optical elements comprise a tunable element, such as a spatial light modulator (SLM), that can be tuned to produce different patterns.

[0099] In some embodiments, all the optical elements are mounted in the unit comprising the radiation source that produces the optical radiation. In other embodiments, at least one optical element is embedded in a contact assembly that contacts the patient's eye while the radiation is generated. Alternatively or additionally, while the radiation is generated, at least one optical element is held over the patient's eye by a holding device. In some such embodiments, the holding device includes a tool, such as a comeal refractive surgery well or a suction ring, that is adapted for holding the optical element.

[0100] After the pattern is etched, the pattern is filled with nanoparticles configured to modify visible light before the light reaches the retina of the eye, e.g., via scattering or absorption of the light, thereby correcting the patient's vision. This correction includes, in some cases, a correction to the refractive index of the cornea and / or a correction of defocus, cylinder, higher-order aberrations, or lower-order aberrations.

[0101] Additionally, some embodiments provide a wearable contact lens comprising a lightaffecting material (e.g., nanoparticles or a colorant) arranged in the pattern. Prior to the etching of the pattern, the patient wears the contact lens so as to verify that the pattern is indeed corrective as expected. Alternatively, the patient continues to wear the contact lens instead of undergoing the etching procedure.

[0102] SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

[0103] Reference is initially made to Fig. 1, which is a schematic illustration of a system 20 for treating an eye 21 of a patient, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. An inset portion 48 of Fig. 1 shows a frontal view ofthe cornea 23 of eye 21. While eye 21 is treated, the patient may be in a supine position, a sitting position, or any other suitable position.

[0104] System 20 comprises a radiation generator 22 configured to generate optical radiation, such as ultraviolet, visible, or infrared light. System 20 further comprises one or more optical elements 24 configured to pattern the optical radiation, onto cornea 23, in a pattern 49, such that the optical radiation etches pattern 49 into the cornea, i.e., etches grooves 51 that are patterned in accordance with pattern 49. Each optical element 24 may be placed at any suitable position along the optical path 64 of the optical radiation. Each optical element 24 may be made of a metal, such as stainless steel or tungsten, a polymer, a glass, and / or any other suitable material.

[0105] In some embodiments, pattern 49 includes one or more rings 50, such that grooves 51 include one or more ring-shaped grooves. For example, in some embodiments, pattern 49 includes multiple, such as 3-6 (e.g., four as shown in Fig. 1), concentric or non-concentric rings 50. (In the context of the present application, including the claims, two rings are considered concentric if the distance between the respective centers of the rings is less than a typical manufacturing tolerance such as 40 pm.) Each ring 50 may have any suitable shape, such as a circular or elliptical shape. For example, in some embodiments, an elliptical shape is used for the treatment of astigmatism.

[0106] In some embodiments, as shown in Fig. 1, radiation generator 22 comprises a pulsed or continuous-wave laser. Examples of suitable lasers include a 193 nm excimer laser, a solid-state laser, and a 2800-3100 nm fiber or Er:YAG laser. In some embodiments, radiation generator 22 is configured to deliver a fluence of 30-400mI / cm to cornea 23. Alternatively or additionally, as shown in Fig. 1, radiation generator 22 comprises beamshaping optics. The beam-shaping optics can be configured to provide a uniform fluence of radiation across the beam, or to provide anon-uniform fluence. For example, typically, it is desired that grooves 51 be of uniform depth, which requires greater fluence at the edges of pattern 49 due to the curvature of cornea 23. The beam-shaping optics can be configured to shape the beam to provide this greater fluence at the edges. Alternatively, using a scanner 25 as described below, the beam (e.g., a Gaussian-shaped beam), or multiple beams emitted in different respective pulses, can be scanned across the cornea such that the radiation is concentrated at the edges of the pattern for a greater amount of time.

[0107] Typically, the optical radiation etches the pattern via photodisruption, photoablation, photo-mechanical ablation, photo-thermal ablation, photo-chemical ablation, vaporization, or coagulation. Typically, the depth of grooves 51 is 30-70 pm, i.e., 30-70 pm is removed from the superficial layers of the cornea, including the epithelium and, in some cases, part of the Bowman's layer.

[0108] In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the outermost ring 50 is less than 8 mm, such as less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, or less than 3 mm. Alternatively or additionally, the width (or "thickness") W of each ring 50 is less than 1 mm, such as less than 0.5 mm, less than 0. 1 mm, less than 0.05 mm, or less than 0.01 mm.

[0109] In some embodiments, pattern 49 is centered with respect to the pupil of eye 21. In other embodiments, pattern 49 is centered with respect to the visual axis of the eye, or is centered at any other suitable point, such as a point between the optical axis and the visual axis.

[0110] In some embodiments, after pattern 49 is etched, eye drops comprising a plurality of nanoparticles 53, e.g., nanoparticles of a metal such as gold, or of albumin, are applied to eye 21, such that nanoparticles 53 occupy the etched pattern, i.e., occupy grooves 51 that were etched into the cornea. (For ease of illustration, only one nanoparticle 53 is shown in Fig. 1.) After occupying the etched pattern, nanoparticles 53 change the way light reaches the retina, e.g., by changing the refractive index of cornea 23, by scattering light, and / or by absorbing light, thereby correcting the vision of eye 21.

[0111] In some embodiments, optical elements 24 comprise a mask 52 comprising one or more regions 54 corresponding to pattern 49. Regions 54 have a property, with respect to the optical radiation, that other regions 56 of the mask (e.g., those regions lying radially inward from the innermost region 54, radially outward from the outermost region 54, and between regions 54) do not have, such that the mask imprints pattern 49 onto the optical radiation. For example, in some embodiments, as shown in Fig. 1, regions 54 transmit the optical radiation by virtue of being open and / or comprising a transparent material, whereas regions 56 reflect or absorb the optical radiation. For example, in some embodiments, regions 54 comprise ultraviolet fused silica (comprising silicon dioxide) or an ultraviolet-transparent inert material (e.g., calcium fluoride) for generated radiation in the ultraviolet range, or infrared fused silica (comprising silicon dioxide) for generated radiation in the infrared range. In some such embodiments, regions 56 comprise the same material as do regions 54 (i.e., the mask is made of a uniform material), but are coated with a reflective or absorptive coating, such as a dielectric or metallic coating. Alternatively, regions 56 comprise a different material, such as a reflective or absorptive metal.

[0112] Alternatively, regions 54 reflect the optical radiation (e.g., by virtue of being coated with a reflective coating), whereas regions 56 transmit the optical radiation (e.g., by virtue of comprising fused silica) or absorb the optical radiation (e.g., by virtue of being coated with an absorptive coating).

[0113] For the pattern shown in Fig. 1, regions 54 correspond to rings 50 by virtue of the regions being ring-shaped, the number of regions 54 being the same as the number of rings 50, and regions 54 being arranged with respect to each other in the arrangement of rings 50. It is noted, however, that due to various factors such as the distance between the mask and the eye, the curvature of the cornea, and properties (e.g., the divergence) of the radiation beams, the shape and size of each region 54 are not necessarily the same as the shape and size of the ring 50 corresponding to the region, and the spacings between regions 54 are not necessarily proportional to the spacings between rings 50.

[0114] In some embodiments, mask 52 is flat. In other embodiments, mask 52 has some curvature, e.g., by virtue of mimicking the shape of the cornea.

[0115] In some embodiments, mask 52 is configured to function as a collimator.

[0116] Alternatively or additionally to mask 52, optical elements 24 comprise a diffractive optical element (DOE) 58 configured to pattern the optical radiation by diffracting the optical radiation. Alternatively or additionally, optical elements 24 comprise a phase and / or amplitude shift mask (SM) 61 configured to pattern the optical radiation by diffracting the optical radiation.

[0117] Alternatively or additionally, optical elements 24 comprise a spatial light modulator (SLM) 60 configured to pattern the optical radiation by modulating the intensity and / or phase of the optical radiation. SLM 60 comprises an array of elements, such as micro-electro-mechanical systems mirrors or liquid-crystal elements, each of which can be individually activated or deactivated by controller 34. Effectively, spatial light modulator 60 can function as a programmable mask and / or a programmable diffractive optical element.

[0118] Alternatively or additionally, optical elements 24 comprise a meta optic 62 configured to pattern the optical radiation by modulating the amplitude, phase, and / or polarization of the optical radiation. For example, in some embodiments, meta optic 62 comprises an array of subwavelength antennas.

[0119] In general, DOE 58, SLM 60, PSM 61, and meta optic 62 may have any of the properties described above for mask 52, e.g., with respect to the curvature of the mask and / or with respect to the mask functioning as a collimator.

[0120] In some embodiments, optical elements 24 comprise a patterning element 24a, which typically comprises mask 52, DOE 58, SLM 60, PSM 61, and / or meta optic 62 and is configured to pattern the optical radiation in an initial pattern, and one or more imaging optics 24b configured to form pattern 49, as an image of the initial pattern, on cornea 23, which can be referred to as the "image plane." In some embodiments, imaging optics 24b comprise one or more transmissive optics (e.g., lenses), as illustrated in Fig. 1. Alternatively or additionally, imaging optics 24b comprise one or more reflective optics. In some embodiments, imaging optics 24b demagnify or magnify the initial pattern of optical radiation produced by patterning element 24a, such that pattern 49 is smaller or larger than the initial pattern. In some embodiments, this demagnification or magnification is different along different axes.

[0121] In some embodiments, radiation generator 22 irradiates the entire patterning element 24a simultaneously. In such embodiments, as described above, for a uniform groove depth, the radiation beam may provide a greater fluence toward the edges of the beam, to compensate for the curvature of the cornea.

[0122] In other embodiments, system 20 comprises scanner 25, which comprises, for example, one or more galvo mirrors, acoustic coil mirrors, single rotating axis mirrors (e.g., polygons), and / or prisms. Scanner 25 is configured to scan the radiation emitted by radiation generator 22 across patterning element 24a. In such embodiments, as described above, for a uniform groove depth, scanner 25 may direct the beam toward the edges of the pattern for a greater time, or direct a greater number of beams toward the edges of the pattern, relative to the center of the pattern, to compensate for the curvature of the cornea. (Alternatively, the scanner may be used to control the groove depth in any other way.) In some embodiments in which scanner 25 is used, a Gaussian beam shape facilitates smooth transitions between adjacent spots.

[0123] Advantageously, the scanning of the radiation decreases thermal effects by allowing heat dissipation between the application of radiation to the same location on the eye. Moreover, in some embodiments, it is necessary to irradiate only a portion of the patterning element, such as regions 54 of mask 52, such that less radiation is required overall, relative to embodiments in which the entire patterning element is irradiated.

[0124] Typically, system 20 comprises a radiation generator unit 38 comprising radiation generator 22. In some such embodiments, radiation generator unit 38 comprises at least one (e.g., all) of optical elements 24. Alternatively, all of the optical elements are external to radiation generator unit 38, in which case, the radiation generator unit may comprise an off-the-shelf product such as the ALCON WaveLight™ EX500 Excimer Laser.

[0125] Typically, radiation generator unit 38 is coupled to a motion stage 40. A computer processor 42, comprising a central processing unit (CPU) for example, controls motion stage 40, thereby adjusting the position and orientation of radiation generator unit 38 (and hence, the size and position of pattern 49), in response to instructions issued, by an operator, via user controls 46.

[0126] Typically, while pattern 49 is etched, an imaging sensor 30 (referred to as a "camera" in Fig. 1) images the eye by sensing visible or near infrared light 31 reflected from the eye, such as visible or near infrared light 31 emitted by an illumination source 36 and reflected from the eye. Typically, processor 42 displays the images on a display 44. Furthermore, processor 42, and / or a controller 34 that is operatively coupled to processor 42, is configured to process the images so as to track any movement of eye 21. (For embodiments in which an optical element 24 is external to unit 38, the optical element is typically transparent to the visible or near infrared light, such that the optical element does not interfere with the eye tracking.) In response to the tracking of the movement, controller 34 controls other components of radiation generator unit 38.

[0127] For example, in some embodiments, in response to detecting movement of eye 21, controller 34 activates or deactivates radiation generator 22. Alternatively or additionally, in response to detecting movement of the eye, the controller adjusts the position of patterning element 24a via a translation stage 72, such as a high-speed piezo stage with sub-micron positioning resolution, on which the patterning element is mounted. Alternatively or additionally, the controller adjusts the position of imaging optics 24b, e.g., via a translation stage similar to translation stage 72. Alternatively or additionally, for embodiments in which patterning element 24a comprises SLM 60, the controller changes the active regions of the SLM so that pattern 49 is shifted in accordance with the detected movement. Alternatively or additionally, the controller controls another scanner disposed downstream from patterning element 24a along optical path 64 (e.g., between patterning element 24a and imaging optics 24b) so as to shift the pattern in accordance with the detected movement.

[0128] In some embodiments, during the etching, the patient fixates on a fixation point 28, which comprises a light source configured to emit visible light into optical path 64. Alternatively or additionally, the eye is stabilized, e.g., using a docking ring, a docking cone, or a suction ring.

[0129] In some embodiments, at least one optical element 24, such as mask 52, is external to radiation generator unit 38. For example, in some embodiments, the optical element is mounted at the exit window 67 of the radiation generator unit, embedded in a contact assembly (as in Fig. 3), held over the cornea 23 by a holding device (as in Figs. 4, 5A-B, 6A-C, and 7A-B), which in some embodiments includes a conventional tool with an adapter, or otherwise placed anywhere between the radiation generator unit and the eye.

[0130] In some embodiments, a separate radiation source 26 emits an aiming beam, which is configured to facilitate the alignment of pattern 49 with respect to cornea 23.

[0131] For example, in some embodiments, as illustrated in Fig. 1, the aiming beam is patterned onto the eye by optical elements 24 such that the aiming beam impinges on the cornea (without removing any tissue from the cornea) with a pattern corresponding to pattern 49. In response to controller 34, processor 42, and / or an operator verifying the position of this pattern in the images imaged by imaging sensor 30, controller 34 drives radiation generator 22 to emit treatment beams of radiation configured to etch pattern 49, at the same position, into the cornea as described above.

[0132] Alternatively, for some embodiments in which an optical element 24 is external to the radiation generator unit, the aiming beam, without any patterning thereof, is used to align the optical element with the eye. In particular, the center of the optical element is marked, and the aiming beam is positioned such that the aiming beam appears as a spot at the desired location, on the eye, of the center of pattern 49. After verifying, manually and / or using image processing, that the optical element is positioned such that the marker is aligned with the aiming beam, the procedure is started.

[0133] Alternatively or additionally, the alignment of pattern 49 is facilitated by the use of Purkinje reflections, topographical imaging, and / or optical coherence tomography.

[0134] Typically, system 20 comprises one or more other optics 66, such as one or more mirrors and / or beam splitters, that facilitate the transmission of multiple beams of lights - including, for example, treatment beams from radiation generator 22, aiming beams from radiation source 26, fixation beams from fixation point 28, and visible or near infrared light reflected from the eye - along optical path 64. Typically, prior to the etching procedure, an operator of system 20 selects, from a kit 68 of patterning elements 24a configured to produce different respective patterns 49, the patterning element that is configured to treat the condition of eye 21. Subsequently, in some embodiments, the operator mounts the selected patterning element within the radiation generator unit, on exit window 67, or on the appropriate holding device. Alternatively, kit 68 contains multiple contact assemblies in which different respective patterning elements 24a are embedded, and the operator selects the contact assembly having the appropriate patterning element. Alternatively, kit 68 contains multiple holders or tool adapters to which different respective patterning elements 24a are coupled, and the operator selects the holder or tool adapter having the appropriate patterning element.

[0135] Typically, each pattern 49 is designed in an iterative process, using software configured to simulate a vision correction given a particular eye condition. In particular, one or more features of the pattern, such as the number of rings 50, the shape and size of each ring, and / or the spacing between the rings, are varied to optimize a point spread function and / or any other suitable parameter indicative of the degree to which the vision is corrected.

[0136] In some embodiments, a hollow anchor, such as a cone-shaped anchor (e.g., a cone-shaped anchor belonging to a femtosecond laser refractive treatment device), anchors radiation generator unit 38 to a device held over eye 21, such as any of the devices shown in Figs. 3, 4, 5A-B, 6A-C, and 7A-B, thereby helping to keep exit window 67 aligned with the eye.

[0137] Reference is now made to Figs. 2A-C, which illustrate different types of imaging performed by imaging optics 24b, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

[0138] Fig. 2A shows imaging with a focal point F between the imaging optics and the cornea, whereby the rays 70 of optical radiation diverge toward the cornea. On the other hand, Fig. 2B shows telecentric imaging, in which rays 70 arrive in parallel at the cornea. An advantage of telecentric imaging is that the image size does not change with the distance of the imaging optics from the cornea. Fig. 2C shows yet another embodiment, in which rays 70 are perpendicular to the comeal surface by virtue of being directed toward the center of curvature C of the cornea. An advantage of this embodiment is that the optical radiation etches grooves having straight walls.

[0139] Reference is now made to Fig. 3, which is a schematic illustration of mask 52 embedded in a contact assembly 74, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0140] In some embodiments, system 20 (Fig. 1) further comprises contact assembly 74, which is configured to contact the eye while the optical radiation is generated. In some embodiments, contact assembly 74 comprises a contact lens. At least one of the optical elements described above with reference to Fig. 1, such as mask 52 or an imaging optic 24b (e.g., a lens configured for use with DOE 58), is embedded in contact assembly 74. The contact assembly may be shaped such that, when the contact assembly is in contact with the eye, the optical element is at any suitable distance, such as 0 - 30 mm, from the cornea.

[0141] Reference is now made to Fig. 4, which is a schematic illustration of a holder 76 configured to hold at least one of the optical elements, such as mask 52, over the cornea while the optical radiation is generated, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0142] In some embodiments, alternatively to contact assembly 74 (Fig. 3), the system comprises holder 76. Typically, holder 76 is held by auser, such as anurse, physician, or physician's assistant, against the eye, with an annular bottom surface 98 of the holder in contact with the eye (e.g., in contact with the cornea), such that the holder holds the optical element over the cornea. In some embodiments, radiation generator unit 38 (Fig. 1) is physically coupled with holder 76 such that the exit window of the unit is aligned with the holder. In other embodiments, the exit window is aligned with the holder, but the unit is not coupled to the holder.

[0143] In some embodiments, the distal (eye -contacting) end of the holder comprises an annular frame 100, which comprises bottom surface 98, and one or more arms 102, which protrude radially inward from frame 100 and are configured to hold the optical element. For example, in some embodiments, the distal end of the holder comprises multiple (e.g., four) arms 102, which are configured to hold the optical element, e.g., by virtue of the optical element being snapped and / or glued into place between the arms.

[0144] In some embodiments, holder 76 comprises a handle 78, via which holder 76 is held. In some such embodiments, an outer surface of handle 78 is shaped to define a pattern 96 of grooves and ridges, which help the user maintain his or her grip on the handle. Alternatively or additionally, handle 78 is shaped to define a suction lumen 80, and the holder is for use with a suctioning device 82, such as a syringe or suction pump, configured to apply suction via suction lumen 80. For example, in some embodiments, suction lumen 80 is in fluid communication with the space between the optical element and the cornea, such that the applied suction removes debris (including gasses) generated as the pattern is etched into the cornea, and / or helps prevent any fogging of the optical element. Alternatively, suction lumen 80 is in fluid communication with an internal lumen of the distal end of the holder that is closed when the distal end is placed on the eye, such that the applied suction creates a vacuum within the internal lumen, thereby drawing holder 76 toward the eye such that the holder is inhibited from slipping off the eye. Reference is now made to Fig. 5A, which is a schematic illustration of another holder 76, and to Fig. 5B, which shows an exploded view of the distal (eye-contacting) end of this holder, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Reference is additionally made to Fig. 6A, which is a schematic illustration of another holder 76, to Fig. 6B, which shows an overhead view of this holder, and to Fig. 6C, which shows an exploded view of this holder, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0145] In some embodiments, holder 76 comprises a tool 84, which is typically an off-the-shelf tool for use in a different kind of procedure and typically comprises handle 78, and an adapter 86 configured to adapt tool 84 for use in patterning the optical radiation. For example, in some embodiments, tool 84 is shaped to define an interior space 90 and is configured for placement on the cornea, e.g., by virtue of comprising bottom surface 98, such that the interior space is above the cornea. Adapter 86 is configured to fit onto tool 84 and to hold the optical element within or over interior space 90 while on the tool, thereby adapting the tool for use in patterning the optical radiation. By adapting the tool for use in patterning the optical radiation, rather than designing the entire holder 76 de novo, significant cost savings are achieved.

[0146] For example, in some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 5A-B, tool 84 comprises a comeal refractive surgery well 88, which is used, conventionally, for holding a liquid (e.g., alcohol) solution against the eye during a comeal refractive surgical procedure (e.g., photorefractive keratectomy or laser-assisted sub-epithelial keratectomy), and which is coupled to handle 78. In other embodiments, as shown in Figs. 6A-C, tool 84 comprises a suction ring 104. Suction ring 104 comprises an internal lumen (not shown) that is closed when the suction ring is placed on the eye. When suction is applied, via a working channel (not shown) in fluid communication with this internal lumen, the suction ring holds onto the cornea, thereby helping to stabilize the position of the optical element relative to the eye.

[0147] In some embodiments, regardless of whether tool 84 comprises well 88, suction ring 104, or any suitable alternative, adapter 86 comprises an outer frame 94 and one or more arms 92 that protmde radially inward from outer frame 94 and are configured to hold the optical element, as shown in Figs. 5A-B. For example, in some embodiments, multiple (e.g., four) arms 92 are configured to hold the optical element, e.g., by virtue of the optical element being snapped and / or glued into place between the arms.

[0148] In other embodiments, regardless of whether tool 84 comprises well 88, suction ring 104, or any suitable alternative, adapter 86 comprises a wider piece 106 comprising a rim 108 and configured to fit onto tool 84, and a narrower piece 110 configured for placement on rim 108, as shown in Figs. 6A-C. Narrower piece 110 is configured to hold the optical element such that the position of the optical element is adjustable by sliding the narrower piece along rim 108, as indicated in Fig. 6B by sliding indicators 112. Typically, wider piece 106 comprises multiple (e.g., four) stoppers 118 disposed at the outer perimeter of rim 108 and configured to inhibit narrower piece 110 from sliding off the rim.

[0149] Typically, narrower piece 110 comprises a frame 116, which is configured to sit on rim 108, and at least one arm, which protrudes from frame 116 and is configured to hold the optical element. For example, in some embodiments, narrower piece 110 comprises an arcuate arm 114 that extends, from frame 116, into interior space 90 and is shaped to define a receptacle 120 into which the optical element is secured, e.g., by virtue of being snapped and / or glued into receptacle 120. Alternatively, narrower piece 110 comprises multiple arms, which may be similar to arms 92 (Figs. 5A-B), and the optical element is held by the arms, e.g., by virtue of being snapped and / or glued into place between the arms.

[0150] Typically, narrower piece 110 comprises one or more handles 122 that protrude, from frame 116, away from rim 108. Handles 122 can be used to slide narrower piece 110 along rim 108 for positioning of the optical element.

[0151] Reference is now made to Fig. 7A, which is a schematic illustration of another holder 76, and to Fig. 7B, which shows an overhead view of this holder, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0152] In some embodiments, holder 76 comprises a cylinder 124 and one or more internal arms 126 configured to hold at least one of the optical elements, such as mask 52, within the interior space 90 of cylinder 124, e.g., by virtue of the optical element being snapped and / or glued into place between arms 126. In some such embodiments, cylinder 124 is shaped to define a side opening 128 and holder 76 is for use with a suction tube 130, which is configured to fit into side opening 128, and a suctioning device 82, such as a syringe or suction pump, configured to apply suction via suction tube 130. In some embodiments, side opening 128 is in fluid communication with interior space 90, such that the applied suction removes debris generated as the pattern is etched into the cornea and / or helps prevent any fogging of the optical element. In other embodiments, side opening 128 is in fluid communication with a lumen interior to the wall of cylinder 124, such that the applied suction draws holder 76 toward the eye, thereby inhibiting the holder from slipping off the eye. In some embodiments, cylinder 124 is shaped to define two openings for suction application, one opening being in fluid communication with interior space 90, and the other opening being in fluid communication with an interior lumen. In some such embodiments, handle 78 comprises opposing grips that protrude from cylinder 124, such that holder 76 is conveniently held by pinching the grips.

[0153] In general, each of the holders described above may hold the optical element at any suitable distance, such as 0 - 30 mm, from the cornea, and at any suitable distance from the exit window of the radiation generator unit. In some embodiments, the holder is equipped with a cooling mechanism to counteract any heating of the optical element by the optical radiation, and / or a ventilation port for the evacuation of any gasses generated from the etching.

[0154] PATTERNED CONTACT LENS

[0155] Reference is now made to Fig. 8, which is a schematic illustration of an apparatus for wearing over an eye, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0156] In some embodiments, prior to the treatment in which a pattern is etched into the patient's cornea, the patient wears a contact lens 131 over the patient's eye. Contact lens 131 comprises a substrate material 136, such as a polymer, and a light-affecting material 134, such as nanoparticles (e.g., of a metal such as gold or of albumin) or a colorant (e.g., an ink, a pigment, or a dye), coupled to substrate material 136 in the pattern. Light-affecting material 134 is configured to affect (e.g., via scattering or absorption) light directed toward the retina of the eye such that, advantageously, the wearing of contact lens 131 allows the vision-correcting properties of the pattern to be tested prior to the procedure. Alternatively, the patient continues to wear the contact lens instead of undergoing the procedure.

[0157] In some embodiments, substrate material 136 is shaped to define one or more grooves 132 which are arranged in the pattern (e.g., which correspond to rings 50 (Fig. 1)), and light-affecting material 134 fills grooves 132. For embodiments in which light-affecting material 134 comprises nanoparticles, the nanoparticles are typically sealed in place. For example, in some embodiments, contact lens 131 comprises two layers of substrate material 136: a first layer in which grooves 132 are formed, and a second layer that is coupled to the first layer so as to seal the nanoparticles within the groove. For embodiments in which light-affecting material 134 comprises a colorant, the colorant typically stays in place by virtue of drying within the grooves. In some embodiments, grooves 132 are formed using a Computer Numerical Control machine or by laser etching.

[0158] In other embodiments, the substrate material is not shaped to define any grooves, but rather, light-affecting material 134, which in these embodiments typically comprises a colorant, is printed or imprinted onto the substrate material. EXAMPLE PATTERN

[0159] Reference is now made to Fig. 9, which is a schematic illustration of an example pattern 49 etched into cornea 23, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, this pattern is used to treat a presbyopic eye.

[0160] The pattern in Fig. 9 includes four concentric rings: an innermost ring 50a, a second-to- innermost ring 50b, a second-to-outermost ring 50c, and an outermost ring 50d. In some embodiments, the inner diameter ID of ring 50a is between 1.15 and 1.23 mm, and / or the outer diameter OD of ring 50a is between 1.64 and 1.72 mm. Alternatively or additionally, the inner diameter of ring 50b is between 2.02 and 2.1 mm, and / or the outer diameter of ring 50b is between 2.34 and 2.42 mm. Alternatively or additionally, the inner diameter of ring 50c is between 2.62 and 2.7 mm, and / or the outer diameter of ring 50c is between 2.88 and 2.96 mm. Alternatively or additionally, the inner diameter of ring 50d is between 3.11 and 3.19 mm, and / or the outer diameter of ring 50d is between 3.33 and 3.41 mm.

[0161] In some embodiments, this pattern is etched using any of the techniques described above with reference to the previous figures. For example, in some embodiments, the pattern is etched using a mask 52 comprising four concentric ring-shaped regions 54 (Fig. 1) whose dimensions correspond to the desired dimensions of rings 50. For example, in some embodiments, the inner diameter of the innermost region 54 is between 1.15 and 1.23 mm, and / or the outer diameter of the innermost region is between 1.64 and 1.72 mm. Alternatively or additionally, the inner diameter of the second-to-innermost region is between 2.02 and 2.1 mm, and / or the outer diameter of the second-to-innermost region is between 2.34 and 2.42 mm. Alternatively or additionally, the inner diameter of the second-to-outermost region is between 2.62 and 2.7 mm, and / or the outer diameter of the second-to-outermost region is between 2.88 and 2.96 mm. Alternatively or additionally, the inner diameter of the outermost region is between 3.11 and 3.19 mm, and / or the outer diameter of the outermost region is between 3.33 and 3.41 mm.

[0162] In other embodiments, this pattern is etched without any optical elements that pattern the optical radiation, e.g., by steering the radiation beam. Alternatively, this pattern is etched without any optical radiation, e.g., using ultrasound, a blade, or any other source of force.

[0163] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather, the scope of the present invention includes both combinations and subcombinations of the various features described hereinabove, as well as variations and modifications thereof that are not in the prior art, which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A system for treating an eye, the system comprising: a radiation generator configured to generate optical radiation; and one or more optical elements configured to pattern the optical radiation, onto a cornea of the eye, in a pattern that includes one or more rings, such that the optical radiation etches the pattern into the cornea.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the optical elements are configured to pattern the optical radiation onto the cornea such that rays of the optical radiation arrive in parallel at the cornea.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the optical elements are configured to pattern the optical radiation onto the cornea such that rays of the optical radiation are perpendicular to a surface of the cornea by virtue of being directed toward a center of curvature of the cornea.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the optical elements comprise: a patterning element, configured to pattern the optical radiation in an initial pattern; and one or more imaging optics configured to form an image of the initial pattern on the cornea.

5. The system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the pattern includes multiple concentric rings.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein the pattern includes 3-6 concentric rings.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein the pattern includes four concentric rings.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein an inner diameter of an innermost one of the rings is between 1.15 and 1.23 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the innermost one of the rings is between 1.64 and 1.72 mm.

9. The system according to claim 7, wherein an inner diameter of a second -to-innermost one of the rings is between 2.02 and 2.1 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the second-to-innermost one of the rings is between 2.34 and 2.42 mm.

10. The system according to claim 7, wherein an inner diameter of a second -to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.62 and 2.7 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the second-to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.88 and 2.96 mm.

11. The system according to claim 7, wherein an inner diameter of an outermost one of the rings is between 3.11 and 3.19 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the outermost one of the rings is between 3.33 and 3.41 mm.

12. The system according to any one of claims 1-4, further comprising a radiation generator unit comprising the radiation generator and at least one of the optical elements.

13. The system according to any one of claims 1-4, further comprising a contact assembly configured to contact the eye while the optical radiation is generated, wherein at least one of the optical elements is embedded in the contact assembly.

14. The system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the optical elements comprise a mask comprising one or more ring-shaped regions corresponding to the rings of the pattern and having a property, with respect to the optical radiation, that other regions of the mask do not have, the property being selected from the group consisting of: transmissivity and reflectivity.

15. The system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the optical elements comprise a phase and / or amplitude shift mask configured to pattern the optical radiation by diffracting the optical radiation.

16. The system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the optical elements comprise a diffractive optical element configured to pattern the optical radiation by diffracting the optical radiation.

17. The system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the optical elements comprise a spatial light modulator.

18. The system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the optical elements comprise a meta optic.

19. The system according to any one of claims 1-4, further comprising a holder configured to hold at least one of the optical elements over the cornea while the optical radiation is generated.

20. The system according to claim 19, further comprising an imaging sensor configured to sense visible or near infrared light reflected from the eye, wherein the at least one of the optical elements is transparent to the visible or near infrared light.

21. The system according to claim 19, wherein the holder comprises a handle shaped to define a suction lumen, and wherein the holder is for use with a suctioning device configured to apply suction via the suction lumen.

22. The system according to claim 19, wherein the holder comprises a cylinder and one or more internal arms configured to hold the at least one of the optical elements within an interior space of the cylinder.

23. The system according to claim 22, wherein the cylinder is shaped to define a side opening,and wherein the holder is for use with: a suction tube configured to fit into the side opening, and a suctioning device configured to apply suction via the suction tube.

24. The system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the system is for use with a tool shaped to define an interior space and configured for placement on the eye such that the interior space is above the cornea, and wherein the system further comprises an adapter configured to fit onto the tool and to hold at least one of the optical elements within or over the interior space while on the tool, thereby adapting the tool for use in patterning the optical radiation.

25. The system according to claim 24, wherein the tool includes a comeal refractive surgery well.

26. The system according to claim 24, wherein the tool includes a suction ring.

27. The system according to claim 24, wherein the adapter comprises: a wider piece comprising a rim and configured to fit onto the tool; and a narrower piece configured for placement on the rim and configured to hold the at least one of the optical elements such that a position of the at least one of the optical elements is adjustable by sliding the narrower piece along the rim.

28. The system according to claim 27, wherein the wider piece further comprises multiple stoppers disposed at an outer perimeter of the rim and configured to inhibit the narrower piece from sliding off the rim.

29. The system according to claim 27, wherein the narrower piece comprises a frame, which is configured to sit on the rim, and at least one arm, which protrudes from the frame and is configured to hold the at least one of the optical elements.

30. The system according to any one of claims 1-4, further comprising a contact lens for wearing over the eye prior to the treatment, the contact lens comprising: a substrate material; and a light-affecting material coupled to the substrate material in the pattern.

31. The system according to claim 30, wherein the light-affecting material comprises nanoparticles.

32. The system according to claim 30, wherein the light-affecting material comprises a colorant.

33. The system according to claim 30, wherein the substrate material is shaped to define oneor more grooves corresponding to the rings, and wherein the light-affecting material fills the grooves.

34. The system according to claim 30, wherein the light-affecting material is printed or imprinted onto the substrate material.

35. A method for treating an eye, the method comprising: using a radiation generator, generating optical radiation; and using one or more optical elements, patterning the optical radiation, onto a cornea of the eye, in a pattern that includes one or more rings, such that the optical radiation etches the pattern into the cornea.

36. The method according to claim 35, wherein patterning the optical radiation onto the cornea comprises patterning the optical radiation onto the cornea such that rays of the optical radiation arrive in parallel at the cornea.

37. The method according to claim 35, wherein patterning the optical radiation onto the cornea comprises patterning the optical radiation onto the cornea such that rays of the optical radiation are perpendicular to a surface of the cornea by virtue of being directed toward a center of curvature of the cornea.

38. The method according to claim 35, wherein patterning the optical radiation comprises: patterning the optical radiation in an initial pattern; and forming an image of the initial pattern on the cornea.

39. The method according to any one of claims 35-38, wherein the pattern includes multiple concentric rings.

40. The method according to claim 39, wherein the pattern includes 3-6 concentric rings.

41. The method according to claim 40, wherein the pattern includes four concentric rings.

42. The method according to claim 41, wherein an inner diameter of an innermost one of the rings is between 1.15 and 1.23 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the innermost one of the rings is between 1.64 and 1.72 mm.

43. The method according to claim 41, wherein an inner diameter of a second-to-innermost one of the rings is between 2.02 and 2.1 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the second-to- innermost one of the rings is between 2.34 and 2.42 mm.

44. The method according to claim 41, wherein an inner diameter of a second-to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.62 and 2.7 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the second-to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.88 and 2.96 mm.

45. The method according to claim 41, wherein an inner diameter of an outermost one of the rings is between 3.11 and 3.19 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the outermost one of the rings is between 3.33 and 3.41 mm.

46. The method according to claim 41, wherein the eye is presbyopic.

47. An apparatus for treating an eye, the apparatus being for use with a radiation generator configured to generate optical radiation and a tool shaped to define an interior space and configured for placement on the eye such that the interior space is above a cornea of the eye, the apparatus comprising: one or more optical elements configured to pattern the optical radiation, onto the cornea of the eye, in a pattern, such that the optical radiation etches the pattern into the cornea; and an adapter configured to fit onto the tool and to hold at least one of the optical elements within or over the interior space while on the tool, thereby adapting the tool for use in patterning the optical radiation.

48. The apparatus according to claim 47, wherein the tool includes a comeal refractive surgery well.

49. The apparatus according to claim 47, wherein the tool includes a suction ring.

50. The apparatus according to claim 47, wherein the optical elements are configured to pattern the optical radiation onto the cornea such that rays of the optical radiation arrive in parallel at the cornea.

51. The apparatus according to claim 47, wherein the optical elements are configured to pattern the optical radiation onto the cornea such that rays of the optical radiation are perpendicular to a surface of the cornea by virtue of being directed toward a center of curvature of the cornea.

52. The apparatus according to claim 47, wherein the optical elements comprise: a patterning element, configured to pattern the optical radiation in an initial pattern; and one or more imaging optics configured to form an image of the initial pattern on the cornea, and wherein the adapter is configured to hold at least one of the imaging optics.

53. The apparatus according to any one of claims 47-52, wherein the pattern includes multiple concentric rings.

54. The apparatus according to claim 53, wherein the pattern includes 3-6 concentric rings.

55. The apparatus according to claim 54, wherein the pattern includes four concentric rings.

56. The apparatus according to claim 55, wherein an inner diameter of an innermost one of the rings is between 1.15 and 1.23 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the innermost one of the rings is between 1.64 and 1.72 mm.

57. The apparatus according to claim 55, wherein an inner diameter of a second-to-innermost one of the rings is between 2.02 and 2.1 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the second-to- innermost one of the rings is between 2.34 and 2.42 mm.

58. The apparatus according to claim 55, wherein an inner diameter of a second-to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.62 and 2.7 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the second-to- outermost one of the rings is between 2.88 and 2.96 mm.

59. The apparatus according to claim 55, wherein an inner diameter of an outermost one of the rings is between 3.11 and 3.19 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the outermost one of the rings is between 3.33 and 3.41 mm.

60. The apparatus according to any one of claims 47-52, further comprising a radiation generator unit comprising the radiation generator and at least one of the optical elements.

61. The apparatus according to any one of claims 47-52, wherein the optical elements comprise a mask comprising one or more regions corresponding to the pattern and having a property, with respect to the optical radiation, that other regions of the mask do not have, the property being selected from the group consisting of: transmissivity and reflectivity, and wherein the adapter is configured to hold the mask.

62. The apparatus according to any one of claims 47-52, wherein the optical elements comprise a phase and / or amplitude shift mask configured to pattern the optical radiation by diffracting the optical radiation, and wherein the adapter is configured to hold the phase and / or amplitude shift mask.

63. The apparatus according to any one of claims 47-52, wherein the optical elements comprise a diffractive optical element configured to pattern the optical radiation by diffracting the optical radiation, and wherein the adapter is configured to hold the diffractive optical element.

64. The apparatus according to any one of claims 47-52, wherein the optical elements comprise a spatial light modulator, and wherein the adapter is configured to hold the spatial light modulator.

65. The apparatus according to any one of claims 47-52, wherein the optical elements comprise a meta optic, and wherein the adapter is configured to hold the meta optic.

66. The apparatus according to any one of claims 47-52, wherein the adapter comprises: a wider piece comprising a rim and configured to fit onto the tool; and a narrower piece configured for placement on the rim and configured to hold the at least one of the optical elements such that a position of the at least one of the optical elements is adjustable by sliding the narrower piece along the rim.

67. The apparatus according to claim 66, wherein the wider piece further comprises multiple stoppers disposed at an outer perimeter of the rim and configured to inhibit the narrower piece from sliding off the rim.

68. The apparatus according to claim 66, wherein the narrower piece comprises a frame, which is configured to sit on the rim, and at least one arm, which protrudes from the frame and is configured to hold the at least one of the optical elements.

69. A method for treating an eye, the method being for use with a radiation generator configured to generate optical radiation and a tool shaped to define an interior space and configured for placement on the eye such that the interior space is above a cornea of the eye, the method comprising: fitting an adapter, which holds at least one of one or more optical elements, onto the tool such that the adapter holds the at least one of the optical elements within or over the interior space; and using the optical elements, patterning the optical radiation, onto the cornea of the eye, in a pattern, such that the optical radiation etches the pattern into the cornea.

70. The method according to claim 69, wherein the tool includes a comeal refractive surgery well.

71. The method according to claim 69, wherein the tool includes a suction ring.

72. The method according to claim 69, wherein patterning the optical radiation onto the cornea comprises patterning the optical radiation onto the cornea such that rays of the optical radiation arrive in parallel at the cornea.

73. The method according to claim 69, wherein patterning the optical radiation onto the cornea comprises patterning the optical radiation onto the cornea such that rays of the optical radiation are perpendicular to a surface of the cornea by virtue of being directed toward a center of curvature of the cornea.

74. The method according to claim 69, wherein the optical elements include: a patterning element, configured to pattern the optical radiation in an initial pattern, andone or more imaging optics configured to form an image of the initial pattern on the cornea, and wherein the adapter holds at least one of the imaging optics.

75. The method according to any one of claims 69-74, wherein the pattern includes multiple concentric rings.

76. The method according to claim 75, wherein the pattern includes 3-6 concentric rings.

77. The method according to claim 76, wherein the pattern includes four concentric rings.

78. The method according to claim 77, wherein an inner diameter of an innermost one of the rings is between 1.15 and 1.23 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the innermost one of the rings is between 1.64 and 1.72 mm.

79. The method according to claim 77, wherein an inner diameter of a second-to-innermost one of the rings is between 2.02 and 2.1 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the second-to- innermost one of the rings is between 2.34 and 2.42 mm.

80. The method according to claim 77, wherein an inner diameter of a second-to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.62 and 2.7 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the second-to- outermost one of the rings is between 2.88 and 2.96 mm.

81. The method according to claim 77, wherein an inner diameter of an outermost one of the rings is between 3.11 and 3.19 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the outermost one of the rings is between 3.33 and 3.41 mm.

82. The method according to claim 77, wherein the eye is presbyopic.

83. The method according to any one of claims 69-74, wherein the optical elements include a mask including one or more regions corresponding to the pattern and having a property, with respect to the optical radiation, that other regions of the mask do not have, the property being selected from the group consisting of: transmissivity and reflectivity, and wherein the adapter holds the mask.

84. The method according to any one of claims 69-74, wherein the optical elements include a phase and / or amplitude shift mask configured to pattern the optical radiation by diffracting the optical radiation, and wherein the adapter holds the phase and / or amplitude shift mask.

85. The method according to any one of claims 69-74, wherein the optical elements include a diffractive optical element configured to pattern the optical radiation by diffracting the optical radiation, and wherein the adapter holds the diffractive optical element.

86. The method according to any one of claims 69-74, wherein the optical elements include a spatial light modulator, and wherein the adapter holds the spatial light modulator.

87. The method according to any one of claims 69-74, wherein the optical elements include a meta optic, and wherein the adapter holds the meta optic.

88. The method according to any one of claims 69-74, wherein the adapter includes a wider piece, which comprises a rim, and a narrower piece, which holds the at least one of the optical elements, and wherein fitting the adapter onto the tool comprises: fitting the wider piece onto the tool; placing the narrower piece on the rim; and adjusting a position of the at least one of the optical elements by sliding the narrower piece along the rim.

89. A contact lens for wearing over an eye prior to a treatment in which a pattern is etched into a cornea of the eye, the contact lens comprising: a substrate material; and a light-affecting material coupled to the substrate material in the pattern.

90. The contact lens according to claim 89, wherein the light-affecting material comprises nanoparticles.

91. The contact lens according to claim 89, wherein the light-affecting material comprises a colorant.

92. The contact lens according to claim 89, wherein the substrate material is shaped to define one or more grooves arranged in the pattern, and wherein the light-affecting material fills the grooves.

93. The contact lens according to claim 89, wherein the light-affecting material is printed or imprinted onto the substrate material.

94. The contact lens according to claim 89, wherein the pattern includes multiple concentric rings.

95. The contact lens according to any one of claims 89-94, wherein the pattern includes 3-6 concentric rings.

96. The contact lens according to claim 95, wherein the pattern includes four concentric rings.

97. The contact lens according to claim 96, wherein an inner diameter of an innermost one ofthe rings is between 1.15 and 1.23 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the innermost one of the rings is between 1.64 and 1.72 mm.

98. The contact lens according to claim 96, wherein an inner diameter of a second-to-innermost one of the rings is between 2.02 and 2.1 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the second-to- innermost one of the rings is between 2.34 and 2.42 mm.

99. The contact lens according to claim 96, wherein an inner diameter of a second-to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.62 and 2.7 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the second-to- outermost one of the rings is between 2.88 and 2.96 mm.

100. The contact lens according to claim 96, wherein an inner diameter of an outermost one of the rings is between 3.11 and 3.19 mm, and wherein an outer diameter of the outermost one of the rings is between 3.33 and 3.41 mm.

101. A method for treating an eye, the method comprising: etching four concentric rings in a cornea of the eye; and filling the rings with nanoparticles, wherein an inner diameter of an innermost one of the rings is between 1.15 and 1.23 mm, an outer diameter of the innermost one of the rings is between 1.64 and 1.72 mm, an inner diameter of a second-to-innermost one of the rings is between 2.02 and 2.1 mm, an outer diameter of the second-to-innermost one of the rings is between 2.34 and 2.42 mm, an inner diameter of a second-to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.62 and 2.7 mm, an outer diameter of the second-to-outermost one of the rings is between 2.88 and 2.96 mm, an inner diameter of an outermost one of the rings is between 3.11 and 3.19 mm, and an outer diameter of the outermost one of the rings is between 3.33 and 3.41 mm.

102. The method according to claim 101, wherein the eye is presbyopic.

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