SUMMARY
UCLA researchers in the Department of Ophthalmology and Mechanical Engineering have developed an instrument for the complete removal of cortical material during cataract surgery, including material along the lens equator.
BACKGROUND
Cataract surgery consists of removing, to the greatest extent possible, the cataract from the capsular bag within the eye. Conventionally, the cataract is broken into smaller pieces which are then removed manually via an ultrasonic suction probe and then with an irrigation/aspiration handpiece. However, during the removal, small pieces of cortical material and lens epithelial cells can remain along the lens equator and capsular bag and are not removed because they are hidden behind the iris and/or difficult to see. New tools are needed to help remove difficult-to-see cortical material pieces in a safe manner and improve the surgical efficacy.
INNOVATION
Researchers have developed a tool and method to ensure the complete clean-up of cortical material inside the capsular bag during cataract surgery. The tool, designed by a team of engineers and eye surgeon, helps expose the residual cortical material during cataract surgery, including cortical material and lens epithelial cells adhered to the lens equator and posterior capsule. Once free, an ultrasonic probe or irrigation/aspiration handpiece can be used to remove the cortical material emulsified by the device. At the same time, the progress can be visualized to ensure that the cortical material is completely removed.
POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS
ADVANTAGES
- Removal of cortical material adhered to the lens equator as well as the posterior capsule
- Complete removal of cortical material
- Visualization of the surgical progress
- Ergonomic, easy-to-use design
STATUS OF DEVELOPMENT
First description of complete invention has been accomplished