Patent · US Expired

Methods, apparatus and system for removal of lenses from mammalian eyes

US6506176B1 · kind B1 · utility

75Cited by
37References
43Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateFeb 16, 2000
Grant dateJan 14, 2003
Priority date
Expiry dateFeb 16, 2020

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
  • CPC primaryA61F9/013
  • WIPO fieldMedical technology
  • WIPO sectorInstruments

Abstract

A system for removing the lens from an eye of a mammal, including a lens-removal device having a probe for penetrating the lens capsule. The probe includes a sheath that shields a rotating impeller at all times, with the impeller being pneumatically actuated to advance to a lens removal position within the sheath. The impeller is pneumatically rotated using a turbine mechanism within a handle for the probe. Irrigation and aspiration are provided to facilitate removal of the lens tissue. The turbine is driven with pulsed air to prevent stiction. A purge/protection cap helps remove air bubbles from the system prior to use and protects the delicate impeller during transport. An operating system is also provided with a foot pedal actuator.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.