Modular Fluidics Cassette for Ocular Surgery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current eye surgery fluid management systems lack flexibility and precision, as they often require different cassettes for displacement-based and vacuum-based aspiration, leading to inadequate control over fluid volume and pressure, which can result in tissue damage during procedures.
Innovation Solution
A modular console system that interchangeably accepts multiple types of fluidic cassettes, enabling both displacement-based and vacuum-based aspiration modes, with automatic communication between the console and cassette to establish the appropriate functionality, and the use of a dual mode cassette that includes a separably coupled holding tank for venting and vacuum control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single type of cassette is used by a particular console, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different aspiration modes (displacement-based and vacuum-based) is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal cassette design that can operate in both displacement-based and vacuum-based aspiration modes. The cassette includes a fluid network with a holding tank that can be configured for either mode, allowing a single cassette type to replace multiple specialized cassettes. This multi-functionality is achieved through interchangeable pump heads and a versatile fluid pathway system that adapts to different surgical requirements.
2Manufacturing precision
If different cassettes are used for displacement-based and vacuum-based aspiration, then control precision over fluid management is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The cassette system incorporates automatic mode detection and configuration capabilities. When a cassette is installed on the console, the system automatically detects the cassette type and configures the appropriate aspiration mode without requiring manual intervention from the surgeon. This self-service feature eliminates the need for surgeons to understand complex cassette specifications and makes the correct configuration automatic, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining control precision.
3Stress or pressure
If vacuum-based aspiration systems are used, then control over fluid pressure is improved, but productivity is reduced due to pressure surges during occlusion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic aspiration system that can switch between vacuum-based and displacement-based modes during the surgical procedure. The system continuously monitors fluid flow and pressure conditions, and automatically transitions between aspiration modes to optimize both pressure control and productivity. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain precise pressure control when using vacuum-based aspiration while avoiding productivity losses by switching to displacement-based mode during occlusion events.
4Productivity
If peristaltic pumps are used for displacement-based aspiration, then productivity is improved, but control precision over flow pressure is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines both peristaltic pump technology and vacuum-based aspiration systems within a single integrated cassette platform. The fluid network is designed to accommodate both displacement-based pumping mechanisms and vacuum-based flow generation, allowing the system to merge the high productivity of peristaltic pumps with the precise pressure control of vacuum systems. This hybrid approach enables the surgeon to utilize the strengths of both technologies depending on the specific surgical requirements.
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 solution provides improved control over fluid management during eye surgery, allowing for precise adjustment of aspiration modes and reducing the risk of tissue damage by enabling interchangeable cassettes that automatically configure for different surgical needs, enhancing surgical precision and safety.
Implementation Method 1
peristaltic pumps (which use rotating rollers that press against a flexible tubing to induce flow)
Implementation Method 2
vacuum-based aspiration systems using a vacuum source, typically applied to the aspiration flow through an air-liquid interface
Data Source
AI summary
An eye treatment cassette includes a handpiece, a vacuum source, a holding tank, a collection bag, and a displacement-based pump. The handpiece is configured to aspirate fluids from a patient's eye. The vacuum source communicates with the handpiece. The holding tank is interposed between the handpiece and the vacuum source, and is configured to hold the aspirated fluids. The collection bag is connected to the holding tank for collecting the aspirated fluids. The pump is coupled to the holding tank and is configured to operate while the vacuum source continues to aspirate fluids via the handpiece to drain the aspirated fluids from the holding tank.