Corneal Laser Shot Patterns for Reproducible Astigmatism Correction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cataract treatments lack precision and reproducibility in creating corneal incisions, leading to variability in astigmatism correction from patient to patient and surgeon to surgeon.
Innovation Solution
A laser system that delivers precise and reproducible laser shot patterns to create incisions in the cornea, specifically arcuate cuts below Bowman's membrane, reducing induced astigmatism by orienting the patterns along the steep axis and controlling depth to avoid disrupting the epithelium.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional cataract treatment methods are used to create corneal incisions, then the surgical procedure can be completed, but the precision and reproducibility of astigmatism correction deteriorates due to variability between patients and surgeons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical cutting methods with a laser-based system that delivers precise energy to create corneal incisions. The laser system uses controlled shot patterns with specific spacing and depth parameters to cut through the cornea and Bowman's membrane, eliminating the variability inherent in manual surgical techniques and achieving consistent, reproducible astigmatism correction across different patients and surgeons.
2Manufacturing precision
If deeper laser cuts are made to correct astigmatism, then the astigmatism correction effectiveness improves, but the risk of disrupting the corneal epithelium increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating incisions with specific depth characteristics that vary by location. The laser shots are configured to penetrate through the corneal stroma and Bowman's membrane to reach the astigmatic tissue, but stop before disrupting the protective epithelial layer. This localized depth control allows effective astigmatism correction while preserving the integrity of the corneal epithelium.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses partial action by delivering laser energy to a specific depth that is sufficient to correct astigmatism without exceeding the safe threshold that would damage the epithelium. The shot pattern parameters (spacing, depth, orientation) are optimized to achieve the minimum necessary correction while avoiding harmful over-penetration.
3Manufacturing precision
If laser shot patterns are delivered to correct astigmatism, then surgical precision improves, but the complexity of the laser system and shot pattern configuration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent manages complexity by systematically defining and controlling key parameters of the laser shot patterns, including shot spacing (e.g., 0.2-0.5mm), depth (e.g., 80-90% of corneal thickness), orientation (along steep axis), and arc angle (e.g., 60-90 degrees). These standardized parameter sets allow the complex laser system to operate with precise, reproducible configurations that can be adapted to different astigmatism cases without requiring overly complex customization.
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 system provides controlled and predictable astigmatism correction by minimizing disruption to the corneal structures, enhancing surgical precision and reducing variability in outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
A laser system and method for correction of induced astigmatism are provided. The system provides a laser shot pattern for creating arcuate cuts in a cornea of an eye below Bowman's membrane
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a system, apparatus and methods for developing laser systems that can create precise predetermined clear corneal incisions that are capable of reducing induced astigmatism. The systems, apparatus and methods further provide laser systems that can provide these incisions at or below Bowman's membrane.