Dual-Blade Microsurgical Device for Complete Trabecular Meshwork Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical methods for treating glaucoma, such as goniotomy and Trabectome®, often leave residual trabecular meshwork leaflets, leading to incomplete drainage and potential scarring, which can result in elevated intraocular pressure and treatment failure.
Innovation Solution
A dual-blade microsurgical device with a beveled platform and ramp-like configuration is designed to precisely cut and remove trabecular meshwork, minimizing leaflet formation and collateral damage, allowing for complete tissue removal without thermal injury.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional surgical methods (goniotomy, Trabectome®) are used to cut trabecular meshwork, then an incision is made in the eye, but residual trabecular meshwork leaflets remain causing incomplete drainage and potential scarring
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the cutting function into two separate blades positioned at different locations. The first blade creates an initial incision and separates the trabecular meshwork, while the second blade completes the cut on the opposite side. This segmentation allows for more complete removal of the trabecular meshwork strip without leaving residual leaflets that would cause scarring.
Solution Approach 2:
The beveled platform with ramp-like configuration acts as an intermediary structure between the two blades. It provides a controlled path for the trabecular meshwork to be elevated and presented to both cutting edges, ensuring complete separation while minimizing tissue damage and preventing residual leaflet formation.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional cutting methods are used, then tissue is removed, but thermal injury and collateral damage occur
Solution Approach 1:
The device replaces thermal cutting methods (such as cautery or laser) with purely mechanical cutting using two sharp blades. This mechanical approach allows for precise cutting of the trabecular meshwork without generating thermal energy that could cause collateral damage to surrounding tissues, thereby improving precision while eliminating thermal injury.
3Device complexity
If a single blade is used for cutting, then the procedure is simpler, but complete removal of trabecular meshwork is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting function is segmented into two separate blades rather than using a single blade. The first blade makes the initial cut and separates one side of the trabecular meshwork, while the second blade completes the incision on the opposite side. This segmentation enables complete removal of the trabecular meshwork strip, achieving superior precision in tissue removal despite increased device complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a microsurgical device and methods of its use for treatment of various conditions including eye diseases, such as glaucoma, using minimally invasive surgical techniques. The invention relates to a dual-blade device for cutting the trabecular meshwork (TM) in the eye. The device tip provides entry into the Schlemm's canal via its size (i.e., for example, 0.3-0.2 mm width) and configuration where the blade tip curves up providing a ramp-like action for cutting the TM. The dimensions and configuration of the blade is such that an entire strip of TM is removed without leaving TM leaflets behind and without causing collateral damage to adjacent tissues.