Operator-controlled scanning laser procedure designed for large-area epithelium removal
US8292878B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 28, 2011 |
| Grant date | Oct 23, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 5, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2009/00897
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Systems and methods for removing an epithelial layer disposed over a stromal layer in a cornea irradiate a region of the epithelial layer with a pulsed beam of ablative radiation. The ablative radiation is scanned to vary the location of the beam within the region in accordance with a pulse sequence. The pulse sequence is arranged to enhance optical feedback based on a tissue fluorescence of the epithelial layer. The penetration of the epithelial layer is detected in response to the optical feedback. The use of scanning with the pulse sequence arranged to enhance optical feedback allows large areas of the epithelium to be ablated such that an operator can detect penetration of the epithelial layer.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.