Dual-Mode Vitrectomy Probe Resolving Cut Rate Precision Trade-off
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vitreous fluid extraction methods in ophthalmic surgery lack the ability to precisely control cut rates, often resulting in either high but imprecise cutting or low but precise cutting, and fail to efficiently manage delicate operations near the retina without risking traction or tears.
Innovation Solution
A dual-mode vitrectomy probe with an actuating element that operates in both resonant and non-resonant modes, using pressurized fluid to move an inner member within a sleeve member to open and close a port, allowing for high cut rates in resonant mode and precise single cuts or low cut rates in non-resonant mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If standard vitrectomy probes operate at high cut rates, then productivity is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating element is designed to operate in multiple dynamic modes (resonant mode for high cut rates, non-resonant mode for precise single cuts or low cut rates). This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt its operating characteristics based on surgical requirements, resolving the contradiction between high productivity and high precision by making both states accessible through mode switching rather than requiring separate devices.
2Manufacturing precision
If standard vitrectomy probes operate at low cut rates, then manufacturing precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between non-resonant mode for precise low-speed cutting and resonant mode for high-speed cutting. This resolves the contradiction by allowing the surgeon to select the appropriate operating mode based on whether precision or speed is the primary requirement for the current surgical step.
3Manufacturing precision
If a single cut is performed, then manufacturing precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating element can be controlled to perform single discrete cuts in non-resonant mode when precision is required, or switch to resonant mode for continuous high-speed cutting when productivity is prioritized. This dynamic mode selection resolves the contradiction between performing single precise cuts and maintaining high cutting throughput.
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 precise control over cut rates, from high cut rates exceeding 7,500 cuts per minute to low cut rates or single cuts, enhancing the safety and efficacy of vitreous fluid extraction during ophthalmic surgeries by adapting to the surgical need.
Implementation Method 1
Operation in the resonant mode causes reciprocal movement of the inner member under application of a constant supply of pressurized fluid and operation in the non-resonant mode causes movement of the inner member in accordance with a pulse of pressurized fluid
Implementation Method 2
The actuating element configured for operation in both a resonant mode and a non- resonant mode. Operation in the resonant mode causes reciprocal movement of the inner member
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
An ophthalmic surgical probe for treating an eye of a patient includes a body, a cutting element extending distally from the body (the cutting element having a sleeve member with a port at an end), an inner member disposed within the sleeve member (the inner member being movable axially with respect to the sleeve member to open and close the port), and an actuating element secured to the inner member (the actuating member configured for operation in both a resonant mode and a nonresonant mode).