Ocular Tissue Sampling Device with Adjustable Biopsy Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ocular tissue sampling devices are unable to accurately guide OCT scanners and effectively procure tissue samples, such as fovea samples, from ex vivo human eyes, due to the delicate nature and precise location of the fovea, which requires meticulous handling and precise extraction techniques.
Innovation Solution
An ocular tissue sampling device comprising an eye support assembly, a scanner assembly, and a tissue sampling assembly that includes a biopsy member adjustable between imaging and sample procurement configurations, allowing for precise alignment and stabilization of the eye during imaging and sample extraction, utilizing a hinged or slide connection for the biopsy member and incorporating a vacuum chamber for secure eye fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If hand dissection is used to extract fovea samples, then sample extraction can be performed, but precision and accuracy are insufficient due to the small size and delicate nature of the fovea
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical dissection with an automated robotic system that uses OCT imaging guidance. The robotic arm with biopsy punch operates based on digital imaging data rather than manual visual estimation, substituting human hand operations with automated mechanical systems that provide sub-millimeter precision for extracting samples from the small, delicate fovea region.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the eye's internal structures through OCT imaging before physical extraction. This virtual model allows precise planning and execution of the biopsy procedure, enabling accurate localization of the fovea and guidance of the robotic biopsy punch without relying on manual dissection skills.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional OCT systems are used for imaging, then retinal imaging can be performed, but the systems cannot guide tissue sampling or work with ex vivo eyes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the OCT imaging system with the robotic biopsy system into a single integrated platform. The imaging subsystem and sampling subsystem are combined with shared components such as the eye holder, coordinate systems, and control software, allowing the system to perform both high-resolution retinal imaging and precise tissue sampling without requiring separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The OCT system is adapted to serve multiple functions: it images both in vivo eyes during clinical practice and ex vivo donor eyes for research, and its coordinate system and guidance software are used for both imaging localization and robotic biopsy guidance. This multi-functional design allows one system to replace multiple specialized devices.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment is required for fovea sampling, then sample accuracy improves, but the procedure becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary OCT imaging and 3D reconstruction of the eye's anatomy before the actual biopsy procedure. The system pre-identifies the fovea location, creates a virtual model, and plans the biopsy trajectory in advance. This preliminary characterization allows the robotic system to quickly execute the extraction with high precision without time-consuming adjustments during the actual sampling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual alignment procedures with automated robotic positioning guided by OCT coordinates. The robotic arm with biopsy punch is automatically positioned and aligned based on digital imaging data, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual adjustment and visual estimation, thereby achieving precise fovea localization rapidly.
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 accurate and rapid procurement of high-quality tissue samples with improved sample integrity and viability, addressing the challenges of conventional hand dissection and existing systems by providing stable eye support and precise alignment for OCT-guided sample retrieval.
Implementation Method 1
The eye holder is configured to receive a posterior segment of the eye and the vacuum chamber is configured to provide suction to the eye to secure the eye within the eye holder.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an ocular tissue sampling device that enables both imaging of an ex vivo eye and procurement of a tissue sample therefrom. The device includes an eye support assembly configured to secure the eye, a scanner assembly configured to enable imaging of the eye, and a tissue sampling assembly connected to the scanner assembly and configured to obtain a tissue sample from the eye. The tissue sampling assembly includes a biopsy member that is selectively adjustable between a first configuration for imaging of the eye, and a second configuration for procurement of a tissue sample from the eye.