Toric Implant Power Calculation Using Power Vector Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for predicting the required power of toric implants do not accurately account for both naturally occurring and surgically induced astigmatic errors, leading to potential misalignment and residual refractive errors during eye surgery.

Innovation Solution

A method using power vector analysis to calculate the required power of a toric implant by combining measured pre-operative corneal/ocular astigmatism with predicted surgically-induced astigmatism, which can be implemented manually or through automated software, ensuring accurate post-operative refractive power calculation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional methods are used to predict required IOL power, then the calculation process is simple, but the accuracy of predicting post-operative refractive error is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of predicting post-operative refractive errorVSAvoidcomplexity of calculation method
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The refractive error prediction is segmented into three independent power vector components (M, J0, J45) that can be calculated and analyzed separately. Each component represents a specific aspect of refractive error (spherical equivalent, vertical astigmatism, oblique astigmatism), allowing for systematic and accurate prediction without overwhelming complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Power vector analysis serves as an intermediary mathematical framework that bridges pre-operative corneal/ocular astigmatism measurements and surgically-induced astigmatism predictions. This intermediary system enables accurate transformation and combination of different refractive parameters into predictable post-operative outcomes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Extent of automation

If power vector analysis is implemented manually, then the method is accessible without computers, but the calculation process is time-consuming and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomation of power vector calculationVSAvoidtime required for manual calculation
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The manual mechanical calculation process is replaced with an automated computer-based system that performs power vector analysis through software algorithms. This substitution eliminates time-consuming manual computations while maintaining the mathematical rigor and accuracy of the power vector methodology.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The complex power vector calculation system is copied into software form, creating a digital replica of the mathematical framework. This software copy can be executed automatically on computers, preserving the analytical capabilities while eliminating manual computation time and reducing human error.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Ease of operation

If existing astigmatism assessment models are used, then the assessment of correction effectiveness is provided, but direct guidance for surgical procedure is not given

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedirect guidance for surgical procedureVSAvoidinformation about lens location effect
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The power vector analysis is performed in advance during the pre-operative planning phase, calculating the required toric IOL power and axis orientation before surgery. This preliminary calculation provides surgeons with direct guidance on the exact implantation parameters needed, eliminating uncertainty during the actual surgical procedure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The analysis incorporates lens location parameters (effective lens position, anterior chamber depth) as variable inputs that directly affect the calculated toric IOL power. By making these parameters explicit and adjustable in the calculation model, the system provides accurate guidance tailored to each patient's specific anatomical conditions and surgical approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8764822B2Method of calculating the required power of a toric implant
Publication Date: 2014.07.01 ALCON INC
  • US8764822B2 patent drawing
  • US8764822B2 patent drawing
  • US8764822B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for calculating the required power of a toric implant by using both the measured pre-operative corneal astigmatism and the predicted surgically-induced post-operative astigmatism. The surgically-induced post-operative astigmatism is predicted using power vector analysis of the surgical technique employed by the surgeon. Such a method provides a more accurate method of calculating the required post-operative refractive power of the implant. The method can be implemented manually, but preferably is automated by implementation on a computer through appropriate software.