Corneal Tissue Detection Using Frequency Multiple Backscattered Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic systems for corneal tissue during LASIK surgery, such as Scheimpflug cameras and OCT scanners, have limited accuracy and image resolution, and are difficult to integrate with therapeutic systems, failing to provide detailed information about the inner structure of the cornea, particularly the collagen fibrils and layered structure, due to interference with surgical microscopes and limited wavelength detection capabilities.
Innovation Solution
An eye-surgical laser apparatus that focuses a laser beam with specific wavelengths and pulse lengths to produce frequency multiple backscattered light, allowing for high-resolution imaging of the inner corneal tissue by detecting light at multiple focus depths, enabling three-dimensional image formation and minimizing interference with surgical microscopes, with the ability to switch between diagnostic and therapeutic modes by varying pulse energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If Scheimpflug cameras or OCT scanners are used for corneal tissue detection, then diagnostic information can be obtained, but image resolution and measurement accuracy are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the therapeutic laser system and diagnostic detection system into a single integrated apparatus. The laser apparatus includes both the laser source for corneal treatment and the detection element for real-time imaging, eliminating the need for separate diagnostic devices and achieving sub-micrometer resolution through the interaction of laser light with corneal tissue structures.
2Measurement precision
If diagnostic systems operate at wavelengths overlapping with surgical microscopes, then detection can be performed, but interference occurs leading to decreased measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The detection element operates by detecting backscattered light at specific wavelengths during laser pulse intervals. The system performs detection periodically between or during therapeutic laser pulses, allowing the same optical path to be used for both diagnosis and treatment without continuous interference, as the detection and therapy functions are temporally separated.
3Productivity
If high pulse energy is used for therapeutic laser cutting, then effective tissue reshaping is achieved, but photodisruption of corneal tissue occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The laser apparatus dynamically adjusts pulse energy levels based on the operational mode. For diagnostic imaging, low pulse energy is used to avoid damage while obtaining sufficient backscattered light signals. For therapeutic cutting, higher pulse energy is applied selectively to achieve effective tissue reshaping. The system transitions between these energy states to balance productivity and tissue safety.
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
This approach enhances measurement accuracy and image resolution during surgery, allowing for precise monitoring of corneal tissue structures and layers, while preventing photodisruption of the cornea during diagnostic procedures and enabling effective reshaping or cutting during therapeutic interventions.
Implementation Method 1
A light that is formed, at the focus, as a frequency multiple and backscattered is detected as an image-producing signal
Implementation Method 2
light that is formed, at the focus, as a frequency multiple and backscattered to produce image information about the inner corneal tissue
Implementation Method 3
the beam energy in the focus of the laser beam is at an energy level which is equal to or exceeds the threshold for photodisruption of the cornea
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2~4
AI summary
The invention relates to an eye-surgical laser apparatus, a use of said apparatus, and to a method for scanning the corneal tissue of an eye before or during eye surgery. The apparatus comprises optics that are adapted to focus a laser beam at a focus within a corneal tissue of an eye, and a detection element adapted to detect light that is formed, at the focus, as a frequency multiple and backscattered or forward emitted. Image information about the inner corneal tissue is then produced from the detected light.