Irrigation Source Pneumatic Pressurization for Ocular Surgery
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current phacoemulsification systems face challenges in maintaining constant irrigation fluid pressure during surgery, particularly when the incision is small, as gravity-fed systems are limited by physical height constraints and conventional infusion pumps require complex dynamic pressure control, leading to potential over or under pressurization issues.
Innovation Solution
A system that combines adjustable pressurization of the irrigation fluid using a pressure supply line connected to the irrigation source, allowing for controlled delivery of pressurized gas to maintain stable pressure, which can be adjusted in conjunction with the height of the irrigation source, using a graphical user interface to monitor and control pressure settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If gravity-fed systems are used to provide irrigation fluid pressure, then the system is simple in design, but the pressure is insufficient when the incision is small due to height limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies pneumatic pressurization by introducing a gas source connected to the irrigation fluid container through a fluid communication line. Gas is delivered into the container to pressurize the irrigation fluid, enabling sufficient pressure delivery to the surgical site without relying on gravitational height. This directly resolves the contradiction by providing high pressure through gas pressure rather than gravitational potential energy.
2Stress or pressure
If conventional infusion pumps are used to pressurize irrigation fluid, then adequate pressure can be achieved, but the system complexity increases due to dynamic pressure control requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a pressure-regulated valve that automatically maintains constant pressure in the irrigation fluid container by balancing gas pressure and fluid pressure. This self-regulating mechanism eliminates the need for complex electronic pressure sensors, control loops, and venting systems typically required in conventional infusion pumps. The valve autonomously adjusts to maintain pressure, reducing device complexity while achieving the desired pressure control.
3Stability of the object's composition
If dynamic pressure control is implemented to prevent over or under pressurization, then pressure stability is improved, but the device complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements passive feedback control through a pressure-regulated valve that responds to pressure differential between the gas source and irrigation fluid. When fluid pressure exceeds gas pressure, the valve closes; when gas pressure exceeds fluid pressure, the valve opens. This automatic feedback mechanism maintains constant fluid pressure without requiring electronic sensors, microprocessors, or complex control algorithms, thereby achieving pressure stability with minimal device complexity.
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
This approach provides a stable and controlled pressurized delivery of irrigation fluid, reducing unwanted pressure spikes and allowing for sufficient pressure to maintain ocular integrity during surgery, even with smaller incisions, while minimizing equipment complexity and costs.
Implementation Method 1
A pressurized line, such as a pressure supply line 140, may be provided from a surgical console 160 to at least one irrigation source 110, to increase the pressure within the irrigation source
Implementation Method 2
The pressure supply line 140 may be connected to the lower end of the irrigation source 110 such that pressurization of the irrigation source 110 is accomplished by the gas being delivered through the pressure supply line 140, whereupon the gas passes through any remaining irrigation fluid in the irrigation source 110 and into a pocket of gas above the irrigation fluid
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates generally to providing pressurized infusion of liquids and, more particularly, is directed to providing a stable and pressurized flow of irrigation fluid to the eye during surgery.