Vacuum Corneal Lenticule Extraction Tip for Edge Definition
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Solution Overview
Problem
The extraction of lenticular tissue during corneal surgery can be difficult due to detachment from the bottom cut and biasing upward, making it challenging to define the tissue edge for removal.
Innovation Solution
A corneal lenticule extraction tool with an elongated body and a tip featuring a specific angle between 120 to 150 degrees, equipped with orifices on the curved portion and a mechanism for generating negative pressure, aids in holding the lenticule during extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If standard surgical tweezers are used to remove the lenticule, then the extraction process can be performed, but the lenticule tissue detaches from the bottom cut and biases upward, making it difficult to define the tissue edge for removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized extraction tool with a curved tip that acts as an intermediary between the surgeon's hand and the lenticule tissue. The curved tip specifically engages the bottom surface of the lenticule, providing a reliable anchor point that prevents the tissue from detaching and biasing upward, thereby solving the problem of difficult tissue edge definition
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a curved tip geometry that introduces a spatial dimension to the extraction process. By curving the tip to match the expected curvature of the lenticule bottom surface, the tool can engage the tissue from below and lift it out in a controlled manner, rather than attempting to grasp the tissue edges from the side
2Productivity
If the lenticule is extracted without a specialized tool, then the procedure can be completed, but the extraction process is difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The curved tip design allows the tool to self-position and self-engage with the lenticule bottom surface. Once inserted through the corneal incision, the curved tip naturally conforms to and engages the lenticule curvature, requiring minimal manual adjustment and enabling quick, efficient extraction without complex manipulation steps
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 tool facilitates complete and efficient removal of lenticule tissue by defining tissue edges and maintaining a secure grip, improving the speed and completeness of the extraction process.
Implementation Method 1
a mechanism for generating negative pressure
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 1D~1E
Figure 1F~2B
AI summary
Improved corneal lenticule extraction tools which integrate defined angles, tip features, and the use of vacuum into the tool to aid in the removal of the lenticule. The tool has a body and a tip each with an internal air channel. The tip has a straight portion and a curved portion at a distal end, with one or more orifices disposed on the curved portion. The body either has a mechanism for generating a vacuum in the internal air channel, such as a resilient diaphragm, or is connected to an external vacuum source. Use of tip features and angles helps the surgeon find tissue edges during tissue removal. The use of vacuum aids to draw the tissue to the tool and to hold the tissue by the tool. The improved tools improve speed of extraction as well as completeness of extraction so that no tissue is left behind.