Intraocular Lens Loading via Cartridge Proximal End Feature
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional IOL cartridges face challenges in effectively loading and managing intraocular lenses (IOLs) with delicate optic and haptic structures, leading to potential damage and incorrect orientation during insertion, which can result in trauma to the eye tissues.
Innovation Solution
The method involves folding the leading haptic radially inward relative to the optic using a proximal end feature of the cartridge, ensuring the haptic is positioned over the optic as the IOL is loaded, and in some cases, the trailing haptic is also folded over the optic, to maintain control and protection during passage through the cartridge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the IOL is folded and compressed to fit through small incisions, then the incision size is reduced and post-surgical healing is improved, but the IOL may be damaged or expelled in incorrect orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The proximal end feature performs preliminary folding of the leading haptic radially inward relative to the optic before the IOL is fully loaded into the cartridge. This pre-positioning ensures the haptic is correctly oriented and folded in advance, preventing damage during insertion and ensuring proper delivery orientation through the small incision.
2Ease of operation
If forceps are used to grasp and insert the IOL, then the IOL can be manually controlled, but the risk of damage and incorrect orientation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The proximal end feature acts as an intermediary mechanism between the operator and the IOL. Instead of using forceps that may slip or apply excessive pressure, the structured proximal end feature provides a controlled interface that automatically folds and positions the leading haptic, reducing manual manipulation and minimizing damage risk.
3Ease of manufacture
If the IOL is loaded directly into the cartridge without preliminary folding, then the loading process is simpler, but the IOL may not fit through small incisions or may be damaged during folding inside the nozzle
Solution Approach 1:
The proximal end feature performs the folding action as the IOL is being loaded into the cartridge, rather than requiring the IOL to be pre-folded or folded inside the nozzle. This timing allows the IOL to be simply inserted while the proximal end feature automatically performs the precise folding and positioning of the leading haptic, combining simplicity with precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of loading an IOL having an optic and a leading haptic into a cartridge, comprising folding the leading haptic radially inward relative to the optic as the IOL moves into a lumen of the cartridge, by using a proximal end feature of the cartridge.