Spatula-Integrated Cannula for Retinal Membrane Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microsurgical instruments for cutting and removing retinal membranes, such as epiretinal membranes, often cause unwanted traction and damage to peripheral retinal tissues, and require manual dexterity and pre-existing gaps for effective removal.
Innovation Solution
A surgical instrument featuring a cannula with a spatula extending at a non-zero angle and an optical fiber to direct laser light, allowing for precise mechanical lifting and cutting of membranes with reduced risk of damage, using a combination of mechanical separation and laser ablation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If current microsurgical instruments are used for cutting and removing retinal membranes, then membrane removal can be achieved, but unwanted traction and damage to peripheral retinal tissues occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument is divided into distinct functional segments: a cannula for insertion, a spatula for mechanical lifting, and an integrated optical fiber for laser delivery. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while minimizing interference with surrounding tissues.
Solution Approach 2:
The spatula acts as an intermediary tool that mechanically lifts the membrane away from the retina, creating a safe distance between the laser application point and the delicate retinal tissue. This intermediary structure prevents direct contact between the laser source and the retina, reducing the risk of thermal damage.
2Measurement precision
If manual dexterity and pre-existing gaps are required for effective membrane removal, then precise control can be achieved, but the procedure becomes more difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument merges mechanical manipulation (spatula) and laser cutting capabilities into a single integrated device. This combination eliminates the need for separate instruments and manual dexterity requirements, as the laser provides automated precision cutting while the spatula handles membrane lifting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical cutting techniques with laser ablation technology. The laser provides precise cutting without requiring the same level of manual dexterity, and can create its own separation gaps without relying on pre-existing spaces between the membrane and retina.
3Productivity
If traditional cutting methods are used, then membrane removal can be achieved, but retinal tears and detachments may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The laser energy, which could potentially cause thermal damage, is instead used to precisely ablate and seal the membrane edges simultaneously. The heat that might be harmful is controlled to create a protective char layer that seals the retinal surface, preventing tears and detachments while maintaining tissue integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser interaction with tissue produces visible color changes (from white to gray to black charring) that provide real-time feedback to the surgeon about the cutting depth and tissue response, allowing for precise control that prevents over-penetration and retinal damage.
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 instrument minimizes retinal trauma by enabling precise cutting and removal of membranes with reduced risk of retinal tears and detachments, facilitating safer and more efficient procedures.
Implementation Method 1
An optical fiber extends along an interior or exterior of the cannula. The optical fiber is configured to direct laser light toward the spatula.
Implementation Method 2
using a combination of mechanical separation and laser ablation
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates generally to surgical instruments, and more specifically, to ophthalmic surgical instruments and methods of making the same. In particular, a surgical instrument is provided. The surgical instrument includes a cannula. A spatula is formed at an end of the cannula. The spatula extends from the cannula at a non-zero angle relative to an exterior surface of the cannula. The spatula at least partially defines an aperture at the end of the cannula. An optical fiber extends along an interior of the cannula. The optical fiber is configured to direct laser light toward the spatula.