Shielded Endoillumination Cannula for Glare Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical endoillumination systems produce significant glare during eye surgery, which can hinder visualization and procedure success.
Innovation Solution
A shielded cannula system with a glare shield and coaxial sleeve is used to partially block light emission, reducing glare by rotating the shield around the illuminator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a light source is used for endoillumination during eye surgery, then adequate visualization of interior portions of the eye is achieved, but significant glare is produced that hinders visualization
Solution Approach 1:
A shield is introduced as an intermediary element between the light source and the surgical field. The shield selectively blocks direct light paths that cause glare while permitting diffuse illumination to reach the interior portions of the eye, thereby mediating between the conflicting requirements of illumination and glare reduction
Solution Approach 2:
The shield creates local variations in light distribution by blocking light in specific directions (toward the microscope) while allowing light to reach other areas (the surgical field). This local differentiation of light quality enables simultaneous achievement of illumination and glare reduction in different spatial zones
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a shield is added to block glare, then visualization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shield is merged with the existing cannula structure, combining two functional elements (illumination delivery and glare protection) into a single integrated device. This merging reduces overall system complexity compared to using separate components while maintaining both functions
Solution Approach 2:
The shielded cannula assembly serves multiple functions: it delivers illumination to the surgical field, blocks glare from reaching the microscope, and maintains the structural framework for instrument insertion. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate devices, thereby managing complexity
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
The system significantly reduces or eliminates glare during eye surgery, enhancing visualization without adding complexity or requiring additional incisions.
Implementation Method 1
The shield can be configured to partially block light emitted from the second end of the illuminator
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for surgery on an eye. The apparatus may include a cannula having a hub with an instrument port, a shield, and a sleeve. The sleeve may have a first end coupled to the instrument port and a second end coupled to the shield. The system may further comprise an illuminator having a first end configured to be coupled to a light source and a second end configured to be inserted through the instrument port and the sleeve. The shield can be configured to partially block light emitted from the second end of the illuminator to prevent glare.