Laser Capsulotomy System for Accommodating IOL Shape Matching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for creating capsulotomies in cataract surgery often result in irregular shapes, ragged edges, and variability due to hand-held devices that can only produce geometric shapes, leading to inconsistent results between patients and surgeons, which limits the precision and reproducibility of lens replacement procedures.

Innovation Solution

A system and method using a therapeutic laser with a control system to deliver a therapeutic laser beam in predetermined non-geometric shaped shot patterns, based on the shape of the IOL, to create precise and reproducible capsulotomies, reducing eye-to-eye and surgeon-to-surgeon variability by determining the shape and position of the lens and cornea relative to the laser device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If hand-held devices are used to create capsulotomies, then the procedure can be performed with simple equipment, but the resulting capsulotomies have irregular shapes, ragged edges, and high variability between patients and surgeons

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of equipmentVSAvoidprecision of capsulotomy shape
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces hand-held mechanical devices with an automated laser system that uses optical energy to create capsulotomies. The laser system incorporates image guidance and automated control to deliver precise energy patterns to the lens capsule, eliminating the variability and imprecision associated with manual mechanical instruments while maintaining ease of procedure performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the fundamental parameters of the capsulotomy creation process by using laser energy delivery with controlled pulse duration, energy density, and spatial positioning. The system varies these parameters to create different patterns (circular, elliptical, custom shapes) while maintaining consistent precision across all procedures, regardless of surgeon skill level or patient anatomy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If geometric shaped capsulotomies are created, then the procedure can be performed with standard devices, but the shape does not match the non-geometric shape of accommodating IOLs, leading to suboptimal outcomes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with IOL shapeVSAvoidcomplexity of laser system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic laser system that can adapt its output pattern in real-time based on the specific IOL being implanted. The system transitions from fixed geometric patterns to variable non-geometric patterns that match the unique shape of accommodating IOLs, allowing the capsulotomy to be customized for each patient's specific lens replacement requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates image guidance and feedback mechanisms that allow the system to visualize the lens capsule and IOL geometry, then adjust the laser pattern accordingly. This feedback loop enables the laser system to create capsulotomies that precisely match the non-geometric shape of the IOL, ensuring optimal compatibility and function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of operation

If there is high variability in capsulotomy creation between patients and surgeons, then individual surgical techniques can be used, but the results are inconsistent and reproducibility is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility of surgical techniqueVSAvoidconsistency of capsulotomy results
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-aligning laser system that automatically adapts to each patient's unique anatomy through image guidance. The system performs its own positioning and pattern adjustment based on real-time imaging of the lens capsule, eliminating the need for surgeon skill variation while maintaining flexibility in creating the appropriate capsulotomy shape for each patient.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 enables the creation of precise, reproducible capsulotomies with reduced edge irregularities, improving the consistency and accuracy of lens replacement procedures, allowing for more effective accommodation and vision correction.

Implementation Method 1

applying a laser to the natural human crystalline lens to address cataracts, opacifications in the lens, clear lens extraction, removal of natural lens material

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser ablation: Laser Ablation

Data Source

PatentUS8708491B2Method and system for measuring an eye
Publication Date: 2014.04.29 LENSAR INC
  • US8708491B2 patent drawing
  • US8708491B2 patent drawing
  • US8708491B2 patent drawing

AI summary

There is provided a system, apparatus and methods for developing laser systems that can create a precise predetermined capsulotomy. The systems, apparatus and methods further provide laser systems that reduce the patient-to-patient variability and doctor-to-doctor variability associated with hand held apparatus for performing capsulorhexis and capsulotomies. There is further provided a precise predetermined shot pattern and shaped capsulotomy that is based at least in part on the shape of an IOL and in particular an accommodating IOL.