Synchronized 3D Laser Incisions for Corneal Flap Angled Cuts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ophthalmic surgical laser systems are not optimized for creating angled side cuts for corneal flap creation, which is crucial for proper repositioning and healing, and are limited by their pulse repetition rates and beam delivery optics.
Innovation Solution
A synchronized three-dimensional laser incision system using a femtosecond oscillator-based laser with an XY-scan device and a Z-scan device, controlled by a processor to synchronize the oscillation of both devices, forming angled cuts by modifying the depth and direction of the pulsed laser beam, allowing for precise tissue dissection and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional ultra-short pulsed laser systems use X-Y galvanometers scanning to create angled side cuts, then the procedure can be performed with standard equipment, but the system is not optimized for precise angled cuts and is limited by pulse repetition rates and beam delivery optics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the Z-scanner oscillate synchronously with the XY-scanner at a specific frequency and phase relationship. This dynamic coordination transforms the static beam delivery system into a synchronized oscillating system that can create precise angled side cuts through coordinated motion of multiple scanners, resolving the contradiction between cut precision and system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters by operating the laser at MHz pulse repetition rates (e.g., 10 MHz or higher) and synchronizing the oscillation frequency of the Z-scanner with the XY-scanner. This parameter change enables the system to create angled side cuts with precise control, overcoming the limitations of conventional systems while managing complexity through standardized oscillation control.
2Measurement precision
If the laser system uses MHz pulse repetition rates with synchronized scanner oscillation, then precise angled three-dimensional tissue dissection can be formed, but the system complexity increases compared to conventional hundred KHz systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by using a controller that receives signals from both the XY-scanner and Z-scanner, compares their oscillation states, and adjusts the Z-scanner's oscillation frequency and phase to maintain precise synchronization. This feedback mechanism enables precise three-dimensional tissue dissection while managing system complexity through automated coordination rather than manual control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action by oscillating both the XY-scanner and Z-scanner at synchronized frequencies with a fixed phase relationship. This periodic, rhythmic coordination of scanner motions creates predictable and precise three-dimensional tissue dissection patterns, reducing the complexity of control compared to aperiodic or manually coordinated systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional laser systems are used for corneal flap creation, then the existing equipment can be utilized, but angled side cuts for proper flap repositioning and healing cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a laser system that can perform multiple functions: standard corneal flap creation using XY-scanning, and angled side cut creation by adding synchronized Z-scanner oscillation. This multi-functional capability allows the same system to adapt to different surgical requirements, improving versatility without sacrificing the efficiency of standard procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-synchronizing the oscillation parameters of the Z-scanner with the XY-scanner before the cutting procedure begins. The controller is pre-configured with the oscillation frequency and phase relationships needed for angled side cuts, allowing the surgeon to switch between standard and angled cutting modes without time-consuming adjustments, thus maintaining procedural efficiency while gaining enhanced capability.
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 the creation of precise angled side cuts for corneal flap creation, improving flap repositioning and healing, and can be adapted for various ophthalmic and non-ophthalmic procedures, as well as micromachining applications.
Implementation Method 1
a laser delivery system for delivering a pulsed laser beam to a target in a subject's eye
Implementation Method 2
the laser beam can be focused precisely on extremely small amounts of ocular tissue, thereby enhancing accuracy and reliability of the procedure
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of this invention generally relate to ophthalmic laser procedures and, more particularly, to systems and methods for creating synchronized three-dimensional laser incisions. In an embodiment, an ophthalmic surgical laser system comprises a laser delivery system for delivering a pulsed laser beam to a target in a subject's eye, an XY-scan device to deflect the pulsed laser beam, a Z-scan device to modify a depth of a focus of the pulsed laser beam, and a controller configured to synchronize an oscillation of the XY-scan device and an oscillation of the Z-device to form an angled three-dimensional laser tissue dissection.