Cataract Removal Handpiece with Dynamic Intraocular Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cataract removal techniques using phacoemulsification face instability issues due to high vacuum levels, leading to pressure fluctuations and tip occlusions, which require ultrasound energy to resolve, and existing solutions either focus on tip geometry or impedance adjustments that can cause further complications.
Innovation Solution
A handpiece with a tip featuring an asymmetrical reciprocating rotary motion and an active intraocular pressure compensation system, utilizing a pressure sensor and adjustable irrigation chamber to maintain constant intraocular pressure, avoiding ultrasound energy transmission and occlusions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If high vacuum is used to improve suction efficiency, then cataract removal productivity is improved, but intraocular pressure stability deteriorates causing pressure fluctuations and tip occlusions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system that continuously monitors intraocular pressure through a sensor and dynamically adjusts the irrigation flow rate accordingly. When pressure fluctuations are detected, the system automatically modulates the irrigation flow to compensate, maintaining stable IOP despite high vacuum suction operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustment of irrigation flow rate based on real-time pressure conditions. The system transitions from static gravity-driven irrigation to a dynamic controlled system where the irrigation flow is continuously adapted to maintain optimal intraocular pressure, allowing high vacuum operation without pressure instability.
2Productivity
If high vacuum is used to improve suction efficiency, then cataract removal productivity is improved, but tip occlusion frequency increases requiring ultrasound energy application
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback control system monitors pressure changes that indicate tip occlusion and automatically adjusts irrigation flow to prevent complete occlusion. This continuous monitoring and adjustment reduces the frequency of ultrasound applications needed to clear blocked tips.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by proactively adjusting irrigation flow before complete tip occlusion occurs. By detecting early pressure changes and preemptively increasing irrigation flow, the system prevents the need for ultrasound intervention to clear blocked tips.
3Device complexity
If traditional gravity-based irrigation is used to maintain simplicity, then device complexity is reduced, but suction flow balance deteriorates under high vacuum conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the simple gravity-based mechanical irrigation system with a pressure-controlled system that uses a pump or regulated flow device. This substitution enables precise control of irrigation flow rate to match high vacuum suction requirements, maintaining flow balance without relying on gravity alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the controlling parameter from gravity (static height-based pressure) to active pressure control. By dynamically adjusting the irrigation flow rate parameter in response to suction vacuum levels, the system maintains proper flow balance under high vacuum conditions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively stabilizes intraocular pressure during cataract removal, allowing for high suction values without ultrasound energy transmission, ensuring reliable and efficient cataract extraction while preventing tip occlusions.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure sensor (20) located after the valve (18), sensing the intraocular pressure instant by instant
Implementation Method 2
The irrigation fluid within the chamber (17) is maintained at a pressure sufficiently higher than the ocular one that is desired to maintain constant
Implementation Method 3
a solenoid valve (18) controlled by a control electronics, implementing the control unit (12), that activates the solenoid valve depending on the pressure sensed by the sensor (20)
Implementation Method 4
A handpiece or handle to use in cataract removal technique by using high vacuum and low mechanical energy
Implementation Method 5
it is also provided with irrigation and suction systems... the second one is assisted by a vacuum pump
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~1(b)
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for ophthalmic surgery, in particular for cataract removal, with intraocular pressure (lOP) stabilisation, comprising an irrigation line (5), within which an irrigation fluid flows, having an end portion capable to irrigate an eye, characterised in that it comprises at least one first source (6; 17) of irrigation fluid at a first pressure value connected through valve means (7; 18) to said end portion of the irrigation line (5), said valve means (7; 18) being controlled by control means (12) o n the basis of a pressure detection provided by pressure sensor means (9; 20) connected to said end portion of the irrigation line (5) and capable to sense an intraocular pressure (lOP), whereby said control means (12) opens said valve means (7; 18) when the pressure sensed by said sensor means (9; 20) is not higher than a second pressure value not higher than the first pressure value, thus putting said at least one first source (6; 17) in communication with said end portion of the irrigation line (5).