Ophthalmic Laser Ablation Moisture Control via Liquid Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
During ophthalmic laser ablation procedures, the evaporation of tear film disrupts the energy influx of the laser beam, leading to inefficiencies in tissue ablation due to energy loss through the liquid film.
Innovation Solution
An ophthalmic laser ablation system comprising a laser device, liquid remover, and computer that adjusts moisture conditions by removing liquid from the eye surface prior to ablation and applying it post-ablation, using devices like ultrasonic emitters, infrared emitters, or air puffs, and a liquid dispenser to maintain optimal moisture levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If liquid is applied to maintain eye moisture during laser ablation, then eye protection is improved, but laser energy efficiency deteriorates due to energy loss through the liquid film
Solution Approach 1:
The system removes liquid from the corneal surface before laser ablation begins, and only applies liquid after ablation is complete. This preliminary removal action eliminates the liquid film that would otherwise absorb laser energy, while still maintaining eye protection through post-ablation liquid application
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic liquid removal and application cycles synchronized with the laser ablation process. Liquid is removed before each ablation sequence and reapplied afterward, creating a rhythmic pattern that alternates between energy-efficient dry ablation conditions and protective moist eye conditions
2Object-affected harmful factors
If liquid is continuously applied to maintain moisture, then eye protection is improved, but ablation precision deteriorates due to interference with laser beam energy delivery
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs liquid removal as a preliminary step before laser ablation to ensure the corneal surface is dry and will respond precisely to laser energy. This preliminary action eliminates variables that could interfere with ablation precision while maintaining eye protection through subsequent liquid application
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts or removes the liquid film from the corneal surface before ablation, separating the protective function (achieved through post-ablation liquid application) from the precision ablation function (achieved through liquid-free conditions during laser delivery)
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 system enhances the efficiency of laser ablation by minimizing energy loss and protecting the eye, ensuring precise tissue ablation while maintaining eye moisture for healing.
Implementation Method 1
The liquid remover comprises an ultrasonic emitter that generates waves to displace the liquid
Implementation Method 2
The liquid remover comprises an infrared emitter that generates infrared waves to dry the liquid
Implementation Method 3
Laser photoablation, or laser ablation, is the process of removing material from a surface by irradiating it with a laser beam
Implementation Method 4
The beam forces the molecules to detach from each other, and material is removed to yield a desired corneal shape
Data Source
AI summary
In certain embodiments, an ophthalmic laser ablation system comprises a laser device, liquid remover, and computer. The laser device directs laser radiation towards an eye as a plurality of shots to ablate tissue of the eye according to a treatment pattern. The liquid remover removes liquid from a surface of the tissue of the eye. The computer: determines a moisture maintenance procedure; instructs the liquid remover to remove the liquid from the surface of the tissue at a location of the eye according to the moisture maintenance procedure; and instructs the laser device to ablate the tissue at the location of the eye according to the treatment pattern.