Illuminated Vitrectomy Probe With Nested Optical Fiber Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current illuminated vitrectomy probes face challenges in delivering sufficient light to the surgical site while maintaining a small diameter to accommodate small incision sizes, leading to inefficient illumination and potential complications during ophthalmic surgeries.
Innovation Solution
An illuminated vitrectomy probe design featuring an array of optical fibers strategically located adjacent to the cutting port, concentrating light where it is needed, and utilizing a compact configuration to fit through small gauge cannulas, such as a 23 gauge cannula, to minimize incision size and maximize light transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If optical fibers are integrated with the vitrectomy probe to provide illumination, then illumination capability is improved, but the probe diameter increases making it difficult to insert through small incisions
Solution Approach 1:
The optical fibers are nested within the lumen of the cannula, with the array of optical fibers positioned inside the hollow space of the cannula shaft. This nesting arrangement allows the illumination system to be integrated within the existing probe structure without increasing the outer diameter, enabling the probe to maintain a small profile suitable for insertion through small gauge cannulas while providing adequate illumination at the cutting port
Solution Approach 2:
The optical fibers are arranged in a two-dimensional array pattern on the side of the cannula opposite the cutting port, utilizing the cross-sectional area of the cannula lumen. This dimensional arrangement maximizes light delivery surface area within the constrained circular cross-section, providing effective illumination without increasing the probe's external dimensions
2Ease of operation
If the probe diameter is reduced to fit through small gauge cannulas, then ease of insertion is improved, but illumination capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system is segmented into multiple individual optical fibers arranged in an array, rather than using a single large light source. This segmentation allows the total illumination capability to be distributed across multiple thin fibers that can be accommodated within the limited space of the cannula lumen, maintaining both small probe diameter and adequate illumination intensity at the cutting port
Solution Approach 2:
The optical fibers are positioned specifically on the side of the cannula opposite the cutting port, creating localized illumination that directs light toward the cutting port opening. This local quality arrangement ensures that illumination is concentrated where needed for surgical visualization, maximizing the effectiveness of the limited space available within the small-diameter probe
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 solution provides targeted and efficient illumination to the surgical site, enhancing visibility for the surgeon while maintaining a small profile, thus reducing surgical complications and improving surgical precision.
Implementation Method 1
a light source, such as a metal halide lamp, a halogen lamp, a xenon lamp, or a mercury vapor lamp, is often used to produce the light carried by the optical fiber into the eye
Data Source
AI summary
An illuminated surgical instrument has a working area located near an end of the instrument. An array of optical fibers terminates near the end of the instrument. The array of optical fibers is located adjacent to the instrument such that the array of optical fibers provides targeted illumination to the working area only on one side of the instrument.