Stereo Microscope Camera System for Corneal Surgery Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for monitoring corneal surgery, such as LASIK, face challenges with patient comfort due to high illumination requirements and compromised workflow, as well as suboptimal visualization using white light and direct-view microscopes.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising high-resolution cameras and a processor that stereoscopically image the cornea, providing processed images for display through a stereo microscope, allowing for adjustable illumination and enhanced visualization using various wavelengths, reducing discomfort and improving workflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If white light illumination is used to detect flap position and striae, then visualization of corneal structures is improved, but patient comfort deteriorates due to flooding the eye with high illumination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the illumination parameter from high-intensity broadband white light to low-intensity specific wavelength light (e.g., green laser at 532nm). This allows the system to maintain adequate visualization of corneal structures through wavelength-selective detection while significantly reducing the total illumination intensity that affects patient comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional direct-view microscope optical system with a camera-based imaging system. Instead of relying on high-intensity illumination for direct visualization, the system uses cameras to capture images at specific wavelengths, then processes these images to enhance the visualization of corneal structures, thereby reducing the need for high illumination intensity.
2Measurement precision
If a slit lamp is used to detect flap replacement, then visualization of eye condition is improved, but workflow is compromised due to the dedicated apparatus requirement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple detection functions into a single imaging system. The same camera-based system used for visualization also performs detection of flap replacement, striae, and other corneal conditions. By making the imaging system multi-functional, the need for separate dedicated apparatus like slit lamps is eliminated, thereby improving workflow efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the visualization function and detection function into a single integrated imaging and processing system. Rather than using separate devices for different purposes, the system merges these functions so that one system can perform all necessary monitoring tasks, reducing the time and complexity associated with switching between different apparatus.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If larger apertures are used to eliminate high illumination, then patient safety is improved, but doctor view is compromised due to tradeoff requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection parameter from relying on aperture size to relying on wavelength selectivity. By using cameras optimized for specific wavelength ranges (e.g., green light at 532nm), the system achieves adequate visualization quality without requiring large apertures, thereby maintaining both patient safety and doctor view quality simultaneously.
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
Enables comfortable and efficient visualization of the cornea during surgery with reduced illumination, enhancing visualization and maintaining the surgeon's focus on the patient without compromising safety or workflow.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second cameras are positioned and focused for receiving reflected radiation from an eye, for example, a cornea
Implementation Method 2
An illumination source can additionally be provided for illuminating the eye
Data Source
AI summary
A system for visualizing an eye of a patient during corneal surgery includes a processor and a first and second camera in signal communication with the processor. The cameras are positionable for focusing on a cornea positioned for surgery. A first and a second display and optics therefor are in signal communication with the processor and are positionable for viewing through a first and a second eyepiece of a stereo microscope, respectively. Software is resident on the processor for receiving a first and second corneal image from the first and second cameras, for processing the received first and second images for display, and for transmitting the processed first and second images to the first and the second displays, respectively, via the display optics. The displays can then be viewed by a surgeon through the microscope at least during the surgery.