Opthalmic surgical device and method with image data reflected off of the eye

Abstract

Method and apparatus providing to a medical practitioner visual feedback of information revelant to a surgical or therapeutic procedure are described. Vacuum and pressure conditions are sensed by a "T" section tap onto the aspiration and irrigation lines of conventional equipment. Ultrasonic power level also is sensed, by electronic means responsive to conventional emulsification equipment. The signals produced thereby are processed to produce an image the reflection of which off the patient's cornea is visible to the surgeon and interpretable by the surgeon as indicative of the conditions. Processing and imaging means convert the analog signals to a digital code used to modulate the various elements of a circularly arrayed, plural element light source. The processing and imaging electronics are contained within a light array housing connected at the end of a freestanding, flexible, gooseneck lamp fixture. The housing may be manipulated by the surgeon or an assistant to produce a preferred image size, location and intensity. In a proposed modification, color modulation is used to produce the image. In another modification, a fiber optic cable bundle is used to produce the image, the bundle conveying light from a source located, with the imaging electronics, in the base of the fixture. In yet another modification, the lights in the array visibly are cycled on and off to indicate that the emulsifier is operating. In a final modification, various alternative imaging patterns are proposed. In a final modification, the image is projected onto any visible region of the patient's body.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.