Laser Channel Creation for Photosensitizer Introduction in Eye Tissue
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for introducing photosensitizers into eye tissue, such as riboflavin for cross-linking therapy, require partial removal of the corneal epithelium, causing patient discomfort and potential complications, and lack precise control over cross-linking in ocular tissue due to complex dose dependencies of radiation and photosensitizer parameters.
Innovation Solution
A device using laser radiation to create channels in the eye tissue without removing significant parts of the epithelium, allowing controlled introduction of photosensitizers, with a computer-programmed system for guiding and focusing laser radiation to generate channels that facilitate homogeneous distribution and adjustable density of the photosensitizer within the tissue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If partial removal of corneal epithelium is performed to introduce photosensitizers, then photosensitizer introduction is enabled, but patient discomfort and potential complications increase
Solution Approach 1:
The corneal epithelium is segmented into multiple small openings (e.g., 3-6 openings) rather than removing it completely. These discrete openings allow photosensitizer introduction while preserving the majority of the epithelial barrier, thereby reducing patient discomfort and complications while still enabling effective photosensitizer delivery to the stroma.
Solution Approach 2:
Only the necessary minimal portion of the corneal epithelium is extracted to create small openings for photosensitizer introduction. This selective extraction approach removes only what is needed for the procedure while leaving the rest of the epithelium intact, thus minimizing harm to the patient.
2Manufacturing precision
If complex dose dependencies of radiation and photosensitizer parameters are considered, then precise cross-linking control is achieved, but treatment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the computer controls the laser radiation parameters based on real-time monitoring of the treatment process. This allows precise control of cross-linking by adjusting radiation dose and duration dynamically, while the automated feedback loop simplifies the overall treatment procedure despite the complex dose dependencies.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention systematically varies key parameters (laser radiation dose, duration, and pattern) to achieve precise cross-linking control. By establishing optimal parameter ranges and using automated control, the system manages the complexity of dose dependencies while maintaining high precision in the cross-linking process.
3Ease of operation
If laser radiation is used to create channels in eye tissue, then photosensitizer introduction is facilitated, but tissue disruption occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The laser radiation is applied in a periodic or patterned manner rather than continuously. The computer-controlled system delivers laser energy in controlled pulses or sequences that create channels for photosensitizer introduction while minimizing cumulative tissue damage. This periodic action allows precise channel formation with reduced overall tissue disruption.
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 gentle and controlled introduction of photosensitizers into eye tissue, reducing tissue disruption and improving the precision of cross-linking therapy, potentially minimizing side effects and enhancing treatment efficacy by adjusting channel density and depth according to specific ocular needs.
Implementation Method 1
A device using laser radiation to create channels in the eye tissue
Implementation Method 2
the foci of the laser radiation are moved one after the other along a straight or curved line in such a way that a channel or several channels are created by so-called cavitation bubbles in the tissue
Implementation Method 3
The treatment allows photochemical, non-tissue ablative stabilization or modification of the biomechanical and biochemical properties of the cornea
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The device has a source (20) for laser radiation, and optical units (24) for guiding and focusing the laser radiation relative to an eye tissue (12). A computer (22) controls the units. The computer is programmed to control the radiation so that a channel (18) is produced in the eye tissue, where the channel partially runs in an interior of the eye tissue. The channel extends transverse to an axis (A) of eyes. The channel passes through an entire radial surface of a cornea (16) with uniform channel thickness. The channel is connected with openings (O) in a surface (14a) of the eye tissue.