The present disclosure relates to a surgical instrument, and, more particularly, to a curved laser probe with single-use optic fiber.
A wide variety of ophthalmic procedures require a laser energy source. For example, ophthalmic surgeons may use laser photocoagulation to treat proliferative retinopathy. Proliferative retinopathy is a condition characterized by the development of abnormal blood vessels in the retina that grow into the vitreous humor. Ophthalmic surgeons may treat this condition by energizing a laser to cauterize portions of the retina to prevent the abnormal blood vessels from growing and hemorrhaging. Typically, treatments are performed using a disposable, single-use laser probe connected to a laser surgical machine by an optical fiber. Unfortunately, use of disposable, single-use laser probes increases treatment costs because a new laser probe is required for each surgical treatment. Accordingly, there is a need for a laser probe that may be safely used to perform more than one surgical procedure.
The present disclosure provides a curved laser probe with single-use optic fiber. In one or more embodiments, a curved laser probe with single-use optic fiber may comprise a reusable handle, an optic fiber fixture, and a single-use optic fiber. Illustratively, the single-use optic fiber may comprise an optic fiber having an optic fiber distal end and an optic fiber proximal end. In one or more embodiments, the optic fiber may be disposed in a first transitory connector having a first transitory connector distal end and a first transitory connector proximal end. Illustratively, the optic fiber may be disposed in the first transitory connector wherein the optic fiber distal end extends a fixed distance from the transitory connector distal end. In one or more embodiments, the optic fiber may be disposed in a second transitory connector having a second transitory connector distal end and a second transitory connector proximal end. Illustratively, the optic fiber may be disposed in the second transitory connector wherein the optic fiber proximal end extends a fixed distance from the second transitory connector distal end. In one or more embodiments, the first transitory connector may be inserted in the reusable handle and the second transitory connector may be inserted in the optic fiber fixture. Illustratively, the reusable handle may comprise a curved hypodermic tube.
The above and further advantages of the present invention may be better understood by referring to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals indicate identical or functionally similar elements:
In one or more embodiments, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from a material configured to deform if transitory connector 100 is sterilized in a medical autoclave, e.g., transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from a material configured to permanently deform if transitory connector 100 is sterilized in a medical autoclave. Illustratively, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from a material having a melting point below a temperature parameter for a steam sterilization cycle, e.g., transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from a material having a melting point below a temperature parameter for a gravity-displacement steam sterilization cycle, a dynamic-air-removal steam sterilization cycle, etc. In one or more embodiments, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from a material having a melting point below 140.0 degrees Fahrenheit. Illustratively, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from a material having a melting point in a range of 158.0 to 212.0 degrees Fahrenheit, e.g., transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from a material having a melting point of 160.0 degrees Fahrenheit. In one or more embodiments, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from a material having a melting point of less than 158.0 degrees Fahrenheit or greater than 212.0 degrees Fahrenheit. In one or more embodiments, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from a material having a melting point below 250.0 degrees Fahrenheit. Illustratively, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from a material having a melting point below 270.0 degrees Fahrenheit. In one or more embodiments, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from a material having a melting point below 275.0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Illustratively, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from a material configured to temporarily deform if transitory connector 100 is sterilized in a medical autoclave, e.g., transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from a material configured to absorb water in a medical autoclave. In one or more embodiments, an absorption of water may be configured to deform transitory connector 100, e.g., an absorption of water may be configured to cause transitory connector 100 to expand. Illustratively, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from a porous material configured to facilitate a deformation of transitory connector 100 if transitory connector 100 is sterilized in a medical autoclave. In one or more embodiments, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured with one or more cavities configured to facilitate a deformation of transitory connector 100 if transitory connector 100 is sterilized in a medical autoclave. Illustratively, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from any suitable material, e.g., polymers, metals, metal alloys, etc., or from any combination of suitable materials. In one or more embodiments, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured by a 3D printing process. For example, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured by selective laser sintering, selective heat sintering, selective laser melting, electron-beam melting, direct metal laser sintering, electron beam freeform fabrication, etc. Illustratively, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured by injection molding. In one or more embodiments, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured by additive manufacturing.
In one or more embodiments, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from poly(acrylamide), poly(acrylic acid), poly(adipic anhydride), poly(7-aminoenanthic acid), poly(12-aminolauric acid), poly(11-aminoundecanoic acid), poly(azelaic anhydride), poly[1,3-butadiene(1,4-)-alt-methacrylonitrile], poly[1,3-butadiene(1,4-)-alt-methyl methacrylate], poly(butadiene oxide), poly(caprylaldehyde), poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene azelate), poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene dodecanedioate), poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene glutarate), poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene p-phenylenediacetate), poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene pimelate), poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene sebacate), poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene suberate), poly(cyclohexylidenethiohexamethylene sulfide), poly(cyclopropylenedimethylene piperazinediurethane), poly(cyclopropylidenedimethylene oxide), poly(decamethylene), poly(decamethylene carbonate), poly[(decamethylenedioxy)-dihexamethylene oxide], poly(decamethylene disulfide), poly(decamethylenedithioethylene disulfide), poly(decamethylenedithiohexamethylene disulfide), poly(decamethylene dithioladipate), poly(decamethylenedithiotetramethylene disulfide), poly(decamethylene pimelate), poly(decamethylene fumaramide), poly(decamethylene glutaramide), poly(decamethylene isophthalate), poly(decamethylene malonate), poly(decamethylene oxydiacetate), poly(decamethyleneoxymethylene oxide), poly(decamethylene succinate), poly(decamethylene sulfide), poly(decamethylene thiodivalerate), poly(decamethylenethiohexamethylene sulfide), poly(divinylbenzal), poly(dodecamethylene), poly(dodecanedioic anhydride), poly(eicosamethylene adipate), poly(eicosamethylene azelate), poly(eicosamethylene glutarate), poly(eicosamethylene isophthalate), poly(eicosamethylene malonate), poly(eicosamethylene oxalate), poly(eicosamethylene oxydiacetate), poly(eicosamethylene phthalate), poly(eicosamethylene pimelate), poly(eicosamethylene sebacate), poly(eicosamethylene suberate), poly(eicosamethylene succinate), poly(eicosamethylene thiodivalerate), poly[ethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-butyrate], poly[ethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-caproate], poly[ethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-heptanoate], poly[ethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-undecanoate], poly[ethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-valerate], poly(ethylene 2,2′-dibenzoate), poly[(ethylenedioxy)-diethylene 2,2′-dibenzoate], poly(ethylene 2,2′-dibenzoate), poly[(ethylenedioxy)-diethylene 3,3′-dibenzoate], poly[(ethylenedioxy)-diethylene isophthalate], poly[(ethylenedioxy)-diethylene sebacate], poly[(ethylenedioxy)-diethylene thiodivalerate], poly(ethylene disiloxanylenedipropionamide), poly[(ethylenedithio)-diacetic anhydride], poly[(ethylenedithio)-dipropionic anhydride], poly(ethylene dithionisophthalate), poly(ethelene dithiotetramethylene disulfide), poly(ethylene fumaramide), poly(ethylene glutarate), poly(ethylene 2,4-hexadienediamide), poly(ethylene phthalate), poly(ethylene sulfonyldivalerate), poly(ethylene terephthalate), poly(heptamethylene), poly(hexamethylene azelate), poly(hexamethylene carbonate), poly[hexamethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-acetate], poly[hexamethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-caproate], poly[hexamethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-undecanoate], poly[hexamethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-valerate], poly(hexamethylene isophthalate), poly[hexamethylene (methylene-2,5-tetrahydrofuran)-dicarboxamide], poly(hexamethylene octadecanediamide), poly(hexamethylene oxydiacetate), poly(hexamethylene 4,4′-oxydibenzoate), poly(hexamethylene pimelate), poly(hexamethylene succinate), poly(hexamethylene thiodivalerate), poly(hexamethylenethiooentamethylene sulfide), poly(hexamethylenethiotetramethylene sulfide), poly(hexenamer), etc. Illustratively, transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from any substituted polymers of poly(acrylamide), poly(acrylic acid), poly(adipic anhydride), poly(7-aminoenanthic acid), poly(12-aminolauric acid), poly(11-aminoundecanoic acid), poly(azelaic anhydride), poly[1,3-butadiene(1,4-)-alt-methacrylonitrile], poly[1,3-butadiene(1,4-)-alt-methyl methacrylate], poly(butadiene oxide), poly(capryl aldehyde), poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene azelate), poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene dodecanedioate), poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene glutarate), poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene p-phenylenediacetate), poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene pimelate), poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene sebacate), poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene suberate), poly(cyclohexylidenethiohexamethylene sulfide), poly(cyclopropylenedimethylene piperazinediurethane), poly(cyclopropylidenedimethylene oxide), poly(decamethylene), poly(decamethylene carbonate), poly[(decamethylenedioxy)-dihexamethylene oxide], poly(decamethylene disulfide), poly(decamethylenedithioethylene disulfide), poly(decamethylenedithiohexamethylene disulfide), poly(decamethylene dithioladipate), poly(decamethylenedithiotetramethylene disulfide), poly(decamethylene pimelate), poly(decamethylene fumaramide), poly(decamethylene glutaramide), poly(decamethylene isophthalate), poly(decamethylene malonate), poly(decamethylene oxydiacetate), poly(decamethyleneoxymethylene oxide), poly(decamethylene succinate), poly(decamethylene sulfide), poly(decamethylene thiodivalerate), poly(decamethylenethiohexamethylene sulfide), poly(divinylbenzal), poly(dodecamethylene), poly(dodecanedioic anhydride), poly(eicosamethylene adipate), poly(eicosamethylene azelate), poly(eicosamethylene glutarate), poly(eicosamethylene isophthalate), poly(eicosamethylene malonate), poly(eicosamethylene oxalate), poly(eicosamethylene oxydiacetate), poly(eicosamethylene phthalate), poly(eicosamethylene pimelate), poly(eicosamethylene sebacate), poly(eicosamethylene suberate), poly(eicosamethylene succinate), poly(eicosamethylene thiodivalerate), poly[ethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-butyrate], poly[ethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-caproate], poly[ethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-heptanoate], poly[ethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-undecanoate], poly[ethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-valerate], poly(ethylene 2,2′-dibenzoate), poly[(ethylenedioxy)-diethylene 2,2′-dibenzoate], poly(ethylene 2,2′-dibenzoate), poly[(ethylenedioxy)-diethylene 3,3′-dibenzoate], poly[(ethylenedioxy)-diethylene isophthalate], poly[(ethylenedioxy)-diethylene sebacate], poly[(ethylenedioxy)-diethylene thiodivalerate], poly(ethylene disiloxanylenedi-propionamide), poly[(ethylenedithio)-diacetic anhydride], poly[(ethylenedithio)-dipropionic anhydride], poly(ethylene dithionisophthalate), poly(ethelene dithiotetra-methylene disulfide), poly(ethylene fumaramide), poly(ethylene glutarate), poly(ethylene 2,4-hexadienediamide), poly(ethylene phthalate), poly(ethylene sulfonyldivalerate), poly(ethylene terephthalate), poly(heptamethylene), poly(hexamethylene azelate), poly(hexamethylene carbonate), poly[hexamethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-acetate], poly[hexamethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-caproate], poly[hexamethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-undecanoate], poly[hexamethylene p-(carboxyphenoxy)-valerate], poly(hexamethylene isophthalate), poly[hexamethylene (methylene-2,5-tetrahydrofuran)-dicarboxamide], poly(hexamethylene octadecanediamide), poly(hexamethylene oxydi-acetate), poly(hexamethylene 4,4′-oxydibenzoate), poly(hexamethylene pimelate), poly(hexamethylene succinate), poly(hexamethylene thiodivalerate), poly(hexamethylenethiooentamethylene sulfide), poly(hexamethylenethiotetramethylene sulfide), poly(hexenamer), etc.
In one or more embodiments, a portion of optic fiber 210 may be disposed in first transitory connector 100 wherein optic fiber 210 is disposed in inner bore 140, access lumen 130, inner bore distal taper 145, and optic fiber housing 150. Illustratively, a portion of optic fiber 210 may be fixed in a portion of first transitory connector 100, e.g. a portion of optic fiber 210 may be fixed in optic fiber housing 150. In one or more embodiments, a portion of optic fiber 210 may be fixed in optic fiber housing 150, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 210 may be fixed in optic fiber housing 150 by an adhesive, an epoxy, a friction fit, a tie, a crimp, a weld, etc. Illustratively, a portion of optic fiber 210 may be fixed in first transitory connector 100 wherein optic fiber proximal end 212 extends a distance from first transitory connector distal end 101. In one or more embodiments, a portion of optic fiber 210 may be disposed in second transitory connector 100 wherein optic fiber 210 is disposed in inner bore 140, access lumen 130, inner bore distal taper 145, and optic fiber housing 150. Illustratively, a portion of optic fiber 210 may be fixed in a portion of second transitory connector 100, e.g. a portion of optic fiber 210 may be fixed in optic fiber housing 150. In one or more embodiments, a portion of optic fiber 210 may be fixed in optic fiber housing 150, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 210 may be fixed in optic fiber housing 150 by an adhesive, an epoxy, a friction fit, a tie, a crimp, a weld, etc. Illustratively, a portion of optic fiber 210 may be fixed in second transitory connector 100 wherein optic fiber distal end 211 extends a distance from second transitory connector distal end 101. Illustratively, a distance that optic fiber distal end 211 extends from second transitory connector distal end 101 may be identical to a distance that optic fiber proximal end 212 extends from first transitory connector distal end 101. In one or more embodiments, a distance that optic fiber distal end 211 extends from second transitory connector distal end 101 and a distance that optic fiber proximal end 212 extends from first transitory connector distal end 101 may be configured to allow first transitory connector 100 and second transitory connector 100 to be interchangeable.
In one or more embodiments, machine connector 440 may comprise a machine connector distal end 441 and a machine connector proximal end 442. Illustratively, machine connector 440 may comprise a machine connector distal taper 443, a machine connector proximal taper 444, a distal ferrule 445, and a proximal ferrule 446. In one or more embodiments, machine connector 440 may comprise a machine connector base 438. Illustratively, machine connector base 438 may comprise a machine connector base distal end 439 and a machine connector base proximal end 449. In one or more embodiments, machine connector 440 may comprise a retaining ring distal interface 437, a retaining ring proximal interface 447, and a retaining ring 448. Illustratively, retaining ring 448 may be disposed between retaining ring distal interface 437 and retaining ring proximal interface 447. In one or more embodiments, lanyard cable 460 may comprise a lanyard cable distal end 461 and a lanyard cable proximal end 462. Illustratively, machine coupler 450 may comprise a machine coupler inferior end 451 and a machine coupler superior end 452. In one or more embodiments, machine coupler 450 may comprise a machine coupler aperture 453. Illustratively, machine coupler 450 may comprise a machine interface 455.
In one or more embodiments, fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may comprise a fixture facilitating sleeve distal end 471 and a fixture facilitating sleeve proximal end 472. Illustratively, fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from a material configured to minimize a coefficient of friction between a portion of optic fiber 210 and a portion of fixture facilitating sleeve 470, e.g., fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from a self-lubricating thermoplastic material. In one or more embodiments, fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from a material wherein a coefficient of friction between a portion of optic fiber 210 and a portion of fixture facilitating sleeve 470 is in a range of 0.011 to 0.36, e.g., fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from a material wherein a coefficient of friction between a portion of optic fiber 210 and a portion of fixture facilitating sleeve 470 is 0.0311. Illustratively, fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from a material wherein a coefficient of friction between a portion of optic fiber 210 and a portion of fixture facilitating sleeve 470 is less than 0.011 or greater than 0.36. In one or more embodiments, fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from a fluorocarbon material, e.g., fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from a polytetrafluoroethylene material. Illustratively, fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from an acetal-based polytetrafluoroethylene material, e.g., fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from a turcite material. In one or more embodiments, fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from a material having a density in a range of 0.024 to 0.073 pounds per cubic inch, e.g., fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from a material having a density of 0.053 pounds per cubic inch. Illustratively, fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from a material having a density of less than 0.024 pounds per cubic inch or greater than 0.073 pounds per cubic inch. In one or more embodiments, fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from a material having a hardness in a range of 50 Shore D to 75 Shore D, e.g., fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from a material having a hardness of 61 Shore D. Illustratively, fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from a material having a hardness of less than 50 Shore D or greater than 75 Shore D. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 210 may be manufactured from a material having a first hardness and fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from a material having a second hardness. Illustratively, the first hardness may be greater than the second hardness. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 210 may be manufactured from a material having a first hardness, fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be manufactured from a material having a second hardness, and transitory connector 100 may be manufactured from a material having a third hardness. Illustratively, the first hardness may be greater than the second hardness and the second hardness may be greater than the third hardness.
Illustratively, fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be disposed in a portion of fixture base 410, e.g., fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be disposed in fixture facilitating sleeve housing 535. In one or more embodiments, fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be disposed in a portion of fixture base 410 wherein fixture facilitating sleeve proximal end 472 is adjacent to fixture base proximal end 412, e.g., fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be disposed in a portion of fixture base 410 wherein fixture facilitating sleeve proximal end 472 abuts fixture base proximal end 412. Illustratively, fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be disposed in a portion of fixture base 410 wherein fixture facilitating sleeve inner bore 540 is aligned with fixture base inner bore 530, e.g., fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be disposed in a portion of fixture base 410 wherein fixture facilitating sleeve inner bore 540 is collinear with fixture base inner bore 530. In one or more embodiments, fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be disposed in a portion of fixture base 410 wherein fixture facilitating sleeve 470 is fixed in the portion of fixture base 410, e.g., fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be fixed in a portion of fixture base 410 by an adhesive, an epoxy, a friction fit, a crimp, a tie, a weld, etc. In one or more embodiments, fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be fixed in fixture facilitating sleeve housing 535, e.g., fixture facilitating sleeve 470 may be fixed in fixture facilitating sleeve housing 535 by an adhesive, an epoxy, a friction fit, a crimp, a tie, a weld, etc.
In one or more embodiments, lanyard cable 460 may comprise a distal loop 591 and a proximal loop 592. Illustratively, distal fastener 463 may be disposed over a portion of lanyard cable 460 wherein lanyard cable distal end 461 extends a distance from distal fastener 463. In one or more embodiments, lanyard cable distal end 461 may be threaded through lanyard cable guide 417 and into a portion of distal fastener 463 to form distal loop 591. Illustratively, distal fastener 463 may be configured to fix lanyard cable distal end 461 within distal fastener 463, e.g., distal fastener 463 may be configured to fix lanyard cable distal end 461 within distal fastener 463 by an adhesive, a crimp, a weld, a friction fit, etc. In one or more embodiments, proximal fastener 464 may be disposed over a portion of lanyard cable 460 wherein lanyard cable proximal end 462 extends a distance from proximal fastener 464. Illustratively, lanyard cable proximal end 462 may be threaded through machine coupler aperture 453 and into a portion of proximal fastener 464 to form proximal loop 592. In one or more embodiments, proximal fastener 464 may be configured to fix lanyard cable proximal end 462 within proximal fastener 464, e.g., proximal fastener 464 may be configured to fix lanyard cable proximal end 462 within proximal fastener 464 by an adhesive, an epoxy, a crimp, a weld, a friction fit, etc.
Illustratively, machine connector 440 may comprise a machine connector inner chamber 571. In one or more embodiments, distal ferrule 445 may extend a distance out from machine connector inner chamber 571. Illustratively, extender 430 may comprise an extender inner chamber 572. In one or more embodiments, machine connector 440 may be disposed in extender inner chamber 572. Illustratively, machine connector 440 may be disposed in extender 430, e.g., machine connector 440 may be disposed in extender 430 wherein machine connector distal end 441 may extend a distance from extender distal end 431 and wherein machine connector proximal end 442 may extend a distance from extender proximal end 432. In one or more embodiments, machine connector 440 may be fixed in extender 430, e.g., machine connector 440 may be fixed in extender 430 by an adhesive, a crimp, a weld, a friction fit, etc. Illustratively, machine connector housing 420 may comprise a machine connector housing inner chamber 573. In one or more embodiments, extender 430 may be disposed in machine connector housing inner chamber 573. Illustratively, extender 430 may be disposed in machine connector housing 420, e.g., extender 430 may be disposed in machine connector housing 420 wherein extender distal end 431 is disposed between machine connector housing distal end 421 and machine connector housing proximal end 422 and wherein extender proximal end 432 is disposed between machine connector housing distal end 421 and machine connector housing proximal end 422. In one or more embodiments, extender 430 may be disposed in machine connector housing 420 wherein machine connector distal end 441 extends a distance from machine connector housing distal end 421, e.g., extender may be disposed in machine connector housing 420 wherein machine connector proximal end 442 may be disposed between machine connector housing distal end 421 and machine connector housing proximal end 422. Illustratively, extender 430 may be fixed in machine connector housing 420, e.g., extender 430 may be fixed in machine connector housing 420 by an adhesive, an epoxy, a crimp, a weld, a friction fit, etc.
In one or more embodiments, fixture base 410 may be disposed in machine connector housing 420, e.g., fixture base 410 may be disposed in machine connector housing 420 wherein fixture base proximal end 412 extends a distance from machine connector housing proximal end 422 and wherein fixture base distal end 411 is disposed between machine connector housing distal end 421 and machine connector housing proximal end 422. Illustratively, fixture base 410 may be fixed in machine connector housing 420, e.g., fixture base 410 may be fixed in machine connector housing 420 by an adhesive, a crimp, a weld, a friction fit, etc. In one or more embodiments, fixture base 410 may be disposed in extender 430, e.g., fixture base 410 may be disposed in extender 430 wherein fixture base proximal end 412 extends a distance from extender proximal end 432 and wherein fixture base distal end 411 is disposed between extender distal end 431 and extender proximal end 432. Illustratively, fixture base 410 may be fixed in extender 430, e.g., fixture base 410 may be fixed in extender 430 by an adhesive, a crimp, a weld, a friction fit, etc. In one or more embodiments, machine connector 440 may be disposed in fixture base 410, e.g., machine connector 440 may be disposed in fixture base 410 wherein machine connector distal end 441 extends a distance from fixture base distal end 411 and wherein machine connector proximal end 442 is disposed between fixture base distal end 411 and fixture base proximal end 412. Illustratively, machine connector 440 may be fixed in fixture base 410, e.g., machine connector 440 may be fixed in fixture base 410 by an adhesive, an epoxy, a crimp, a weld, a friction fit, etc.
In one or more embodiments, electrical element 424 may be disposed in machine connector housing 420 and extender 430, e.g., electrical element may be disposed in electrical element housing 435. Illustratively, electrical element 424 may be fixed in electrical element housing 435, e.g., electrical element 424 may be fixed in electrical element housing 435 by an adhesive, an epoxy, a crimp, a weld, a friction fit, etc. In one or more embodiments, electrical element 424 may be disposed in machine connector housing 420 and extender 430 wherein electrical element inferior end 425 may be in contact with machine connector 440, e.g., electrical element 424 may be disposed in electrical element housing 435 wherein electrical element inferior end 425 may be in contact with machine connector 440. Illustratively, electrical element 424 may be electrically connected to machine connector 440. In one or more embodiments, electrical element 424 may be configured to convey data to a machine, e.g., electrical element 424 may be configured to convey data to a laser machine. Illustratively, electrical element 424 may comprise a resistor, e.g., electrical element 424 may comprise a cylindrical resistor. In one or more embodiments, electrical element 424 may comprise a radio frequency identification chip.
Illustratively, fixation mechanism 427 may be disposed in machine connector housing 420, e.g., fixation mechanism 427 may be disposed in machine connector housing 420 wherein a portion of fixation mechanism 427 contacts a portion of electrical element 424. In one or more embodiments, fixation mechanism 427 may be fixed in machine connector housing 420, e.g., fixation mechanism 427 may be fixed in machine connector housing 420 by an adhesive, an epoxy, a crimp, a weld, a friction fit, etc. Illustratively, fixation mechanism 427 may be configured to fix electrical element 424 in electrical element housing 435, e.g., fixation mechanism 427 may comprise a setscrew configured to fix electrical element 424 in electrical element housing 435. In one or more embodiments, fixation mechanism 427 may be electrically conductive. Illustratively, fixation mechanism 427 may be disposed in machine connector housing 420 wherein fixation mechanism 427 contacts electrical element 424 and electrical element 424 contacts machine connector 440, e.g., fixation mechanism 427 may be disposed in machine connector housing 420 wherein fixation mechanism 427 contacts electrical element superior end 426 and electrical element inferior end 425 contacts machine connector 440. In one or more embodiments, fixation mechanism 427 may be disposed in machine connector housing 420 wherein fixation mechanism 427 is electrically connected to electrical element 424 and electrical element 424 is electrically connected to machine connector 440.
Illustratively, machine coupler 450 may be configured to attach assembled optic fiber fixture 500 to a laser machine, e.g., machine interface 455 may be configured to attach assembled optic fiber fixture 500 to a laser machine. In one or more embodiments, machine interface 455 may comprise a magnet configured to attach assembled optic fiber fixture 500 to a laser machine. Illustratively, machine interface 455 may comprise an adhesive configured to attach assembled optic fiber fixture 500 to a laser machine. In one or more embodiments, assembled optic fiber fixture 500 may be reusable, e.g., assembled optic fiber fixture 500 may be sold non-sterile and not intended to be sterilized by a user in a medical autoclave. Illustratively, a user may clean assembled optic fiber fixture 500 by flushing assembled optic fiber fixture 500 with a syringe of isopropyl alcohol. In one or more embodiments, flushing assembled optic fiber fixture 500 with a syringe of isopropyl alcohol before each use of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 may be configured to remove any particulate matter that may have accumulated in assembled optic fiber fixture 500 since a previous use of assembled optic fiber fixture 500. Illustratively, optic fiber fixture 500 may comprise an end cap configured to fit over optic fiber fixture proximal end 502, e.g., optic fiber fixture 500 may comprise an end cap configured to fit over optic fiber fixture proximal end 502 to prevent particulate matter from accumulating in optic fiber fixture 500 when optic fiber fixture 500 is not being used by a user.
Illustratively, a portion of handle nosecone 810 may be disposed in a portion of handle base 820, e.g., handle nosecone proximal end 812 may be disposed in nosecone housing 825. In one or more embodiments, handle nosecone base 814 may be disposed in a portion of handle base 820, e.g., handle nosecone base 814 may be disposed in a portion of handle base 820 wherein handle nosecone distal end 811 extends out from handle base distal end 821. Illustratively, a portion of handle nosecone 810 may be disposed in a portion of handle base 820 wherein handle nosecone proximal end 812 is adjacent to handle facilitating sleeve distal end 601, e.g., a portion of handle nosecone 810 may be disposed in a portion of handle base 820 wherein handle nosecone proximal end 812 abuts handle facilitating sleeve distal end 601. In one or more embodiments, a portion of handle nosecone 810 may be fixed in a portion of handle base 820, e.g., a portion of handle nosecone 810 may be fixed in a portion of handle base 820 by an adhesive, an epoxy, a crimp, a weld, a friction fit, etc. Illustratively, a portion of handle nosecone 810 may be fixed in handle nosecone housing 825, e.g., a portion of handle nosecone 810 may be fixed in handle nosecone housing 825 by an adhesive, an epoxy, a crimp, a weld, a friction fit, etc.
In one or more embodiments, a portion of first curved hypodermic tube 700 may be disposed in a portion of handle nosecone 810, e.g., first curved hypodermic tube proximal end 702 may be disposed in hypodermic tube housing 818. Illustratively, a portion of first curved hypodermic tube 700 may be disposed in a portion of handle nosecone 810 wherein first curved hypodermic tube distal end 701 extends out from handle nosecone distal end 811. In one or more embodiments, a portion of first curved hypodermic tube 700 may be fixed in a portion of handle nosecone 810, e.g., a portion of first curved hypodermic tube 700 may be fixed in a portion of handle nosecone 810 by an adhesive, an epoxy, a crimp, a weld, a friction fit, etc. Illustratively, a portion of first curved hypodermic tube 700 may be fixed in hypodermic tube housing 818, e.g., a portion of first curved hypodermic tube 700 may be fixed in hypodermic tube housing 818 by an adhesive, an epoxy, a crimp, a weld, a friction fit, etc.
In one or more embodiments, an assembled curved laser probe with single-use optic fiber 1000 may comprise a first transitory connector 100 disposed in a portion of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 wherein optic fiber proximal end 212 is adjacent to assembled optic fiber fixture distal end 501. Illustratively, an assembled curved laser probe with single-use optic fiber 1000 may comprise a first transitory connector 100 disposed in a portion of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 wherein optic fiber proximal end 212 abuts assembled optic fiber fixture distal end 501. In one or more embodiments, an assembled curved laser probe with single-use optic fiber 1000 may comprise a first transitory connector 100 disposed in a portion of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 wherein optic fiber proximal end 212 is coplanar with assembled optic fiber fixture distal end 501. Illustratively, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 may be configured to ingress optic fiber proximal end 212 into first transitory connector housing 550. In one or more embodiments, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 may be configured to ingress optic fiber proximal end 212 into first transitory connector housing distal taper 545. Illustratively, first transitory connector housing distal taper 545 may be configured to guide an ingress of optic fiber 210 into fixture facilitating sleeve inner bore 540. In one or more embodiments, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 may be configured to ingress optic fiber proximal end 212 into fixture facilitating sleeve inner bore 540. Illustratively, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 may be configured to ingress optic fiber proximal end 212 into fixture facilitating sleeve housing 535. In one or more embodiments, fixture facilitating sleeve housing 535 may be configured to guide an ingress of optic fiber 210 into fixture base inner bore 530. Illustratively, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 may be configured to ingress optic fiber proximal end 212 into fixture base inner bore 530. In one or more embodiments, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 may be configured to ingress optic fiber proximal end 212 into machine connector proximal taper 444. Illustratively, machine connector proximal taper 444 may be configured to guide an ingress of optic fiber 210 into machine connector proximal inner lumen 525. In one or more embodiments, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 may be configured to ingress optic fiber proximal end 212 into machine connector proximal inner lumen 525. Illustratively, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 may be configured to ingress optic fiber proximal end 212 into inner lumen proximal taper 520. In one or more embodiments, inner lumen proximal taper 520 may be configured to guide an ingress of optic fiber into machine connector distal inner lumen 515. Illustratively, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 may be configured to ingress optic fiber proximal end 212 into machine connector distal inner lumen 515. In one or more embodiments, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 may be configured to ingress optic fiber proximal end 212 into inner lumen distal taper 510. Illustratively, inner lumen distal taper 510 may be configured to guide an ingress of optic fiber 210 into optic fiber proximal end guide 505. In one or more embodiments, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 may be configured to ingress optic fiber proximal end 212 into optic fiber proximal end guide 505.
Illustratively, inserting first transitory connector 100 into a portion of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into optic fiber proximal end guide 505, e.g., inserting first transitory connector 100 into a portion of assembled optic fiber fixture 500 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into optic fiber proximal end guide 505 wherein optic fiber proximal end 212 is coplanar with assembled optic fiber fixture distal end 501. In one or more embodiments, inserting first transitory connector distal end 101 into first transitory connector housing distal taper 545 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into optic fiber proximal end guide 505, e.g., inserting first transitory connector distal end 101 into first transitory connector housing distal taper 545 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into optic fiber proximal end guide 505 wherein optic fiber proximal end 212 is coplanar with assembled optic fiber fixture distal end 501. Illustratively, inserting first transitory connector nosecone base 120 into first transitory connector housing 550 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into optic fiber proximal end guide 505, e.g., inserting first transitory connector nosecone base 120 into first transitory connector housing 550 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into optic fiber proximal end guide 505 wherein optic fiber proximal end 212 is coplanar with assembled optic fiber fixture distal end 501. In one or more embodiments, inserting major diameter 105 and minor diameter 106 into first transitory connector housing threading 560 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into optic fiber proximal end guide 505, e.g., inserting major diameter 105 and minor diameter 106 into first transitory connector housing threading 560 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into optic fiber proximal end guide 505 wherein optic fiber proximal end 212 is coplanar with assembled optic fiber fixture distal end 501. Illustratively, rotating major diameter 105 and minor diameter 106 in first transitory connector housing threading 560 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into optic fiber proximal end guide 505, e.g., rotating major diameter 105 and minor diameter 106 in first transitory connector housing threading 560 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into optic fiber proximal end guide 505 wherein optic fiber proximal end 212 is coplanar with assembled optic fiber fixture distal end 501. In one or more embodiments, rotating major diameter 105 and minor diameter 106 in first transitory connector housing threading 560 may be configured to fix first transitory connector 100 in assembled optic fiber fixture 500, e.g., rotating major diameter 105 and minor diameter 106 in first transitory connector housing threading 560 may be configured to fix major diameter 105 and minor diameter 106 in first transitory connector housing threading 560. For example, major diameter 105 and minor diameter 106 may comprise a threaded fastener.
Illustratively, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled reusable handle 900 may be configured to ingress optic fiber distal end 211 into second transitory connector housing 620. In one or more embodiments, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled reusable handle 900 may be configured to ingress optic fiber distal end 211 into second transitory connector housing distal taper 625. Illustratively, second transitory connector housing distal taper 625 may be configured to guide an ingress of optic fiber 210 into handle facilitating sleeve inner bore 640. In one or more embodiments, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled reusable handle 900 may be configured to ingress optic fiber distal end 211 into handle facilitating sleeve inner bore 640. Illustratively, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled reusable handle 900 may be configured to ingress optic fiber distal end 211 into handle nosecone inner bore 815. In one or more embodiments, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled reusable handle 900 may be configured to ingress optic fiber distal end 211 into handle nosecone distal taper 816. Illustratively, handle nosecone distal taper 816 may be configured to guide an ingress of optic fiber 210 into optic fiber distal end guide 817. In one or more embodiments, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled reusable handle 900 may be configured to ingress optic fiber distal end 211 into optic fiber distal end guide 817. Illustratively, inserting a portion of optic fiber 210 into a portion of assembled reusable handle 900 may be configured to ingress optic fiber distal end 211 into a curved hypodermic tube.
Illustratively, inserting second transitory connector 100 into a portion of assembled reusable handle 900 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube, e.g., inserting second transitory connector 100 into a portion of assembled reusable handle 900 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube wherein optic fiber distal end 211 is adjacent to a curved hypodermic tube distal end. In one or more embodiments, inserting second transitory connector 100 into a portion of assembled reusable handle 900 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube wherein optic fiber distal end 211 is coplanar with a curved hypodermic tube distal end. Illustratively, inserting second transitory connector distal end 101 into second transitory connector housing distal taper 625 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube, e.g., inserting second transitory connector distal end 101 into second transitory connector housing distal taper 625 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube wherein optic fiber distal end 211 is adjacent to a curved hypodermic tube distal end. In one or more embodiments, inserting second transitory connector distal end 101 into second transitory connector housing distal taper 625 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube wherein optic fiber distal end 211 is coplanar with a curved hypodermic tube distal end. Illustratively, inserting second transitory connector nosecone base 120 into second transitory connector housing 620 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube, e.g., inserting second transitory connector nosecone base 120 into second transitory connector housing 620 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube wherein optic fiber distal end 211 is adjacent to a curved hypodermic tube distal end. In one or more embodiments, inserting second transitory connector nosecone base 120 into second transitory connector housing 620 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube wherein optic fiber distal end 211 is coplanar with a curved hypodermic tube distal end. Illustratively, inserting major diameter 105 in major diameter housing 605 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube, e.g., inserting major diameter 105 in major diameter housing 605 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube wherein optic fiber distal end 211 is adjacent to a curved hypodermic tube distal end. In one or more embodiments, inserting major diameter 105 in major diameter housing 605 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube wherein optic fiber distal end 211 is coplanar with a curved hypodermic tube distal end. Illustratively, inserting minor diameter 106 into minor diameter housing 606 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube, e.g., inserting minor diameter 106 into minor diameter housing 606 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube wherein optic fiber distal end 211 is adjacent to a curved hypodermic tube distal end. In one or more embodiments, inserting minor diameter 106 into minor diameter housing 606 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube wherein optic fiber distal end 211 is coplanar with a curved hypodermic tube distal end. Illustratively, rotating major diameter 105 in major diameter housing 605 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube, e.g., rotating major diameter 105 in major diameter housing 605 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube wherein optic fiber distal end 211 is adjacent to a curved hypodermic tube distal end. In one or more embodiments, rotating major diameter 105 in major diameter housing 605 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube wherein optic fiber distal end 211 is coplanar with a curved hypodermic tube distal end. Illustratively, rotating minor diameter 106 in minor diameter housing 606 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube, e.g., rotating minor diameter 106 in minor diameter housing 606 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube wherein optic fiber distal end 211 is adjacent to a curved hypodermic tube distal end. In one or more embodiments, rotating minor diameter 106 in minor diameter housing 606 may be configured to ingress optic fiber 210 into a curved hypodermic tube wherein optic fiber distal end 211 is coplanar with a curved hypodermic tube distal end.
Illustratively, rotating major diameter 105 in major diameter housing 605 may be configured to fix second transitory connector 100 in assembled reusable handle 900, e.g., rotating major diameter 105 in major diameter housing 605 may be configured to fix major diameter 105 in major diameter housing 605. In one or more embodiments, rotating minor diameter 106 in minor diameter housing 606 may be configured to fix second transitory connector 100 in assembled reusable handle 900, e.g., rotating minor diameter 106 in minor diameter housing 606 may be configured to fix minor diameter 106 in minor diameter housing 606. For example, major diameter 105 and minor diameter 106 may comprise a threaded fastener. Illustratively, a user may perform a photocoagulation procedure with an assembled curved laser probe with single-use optic fiber 1000. In one or more embodiments, a user may connect machine connector 440 to a laser machine. Illustratively, a user may energize the laser machine to deliver laser light into optic fiber proximal end 212, through optic fiber 210, out from optic fiber distal end 211, and onto a surgical target site. In one or more embodiments, assembled reusable handle 900 may be a reusable medical device sold non-sterile and sterilized by a user in a medical autoclave.
The foregoing description has been directed to particular embodiments of this invention. It will be apparent; however, that other variations and modifications may be made to the described embodiments, with the attainment of some or all of their advantages. Specifically, it should be noted that the principles of the present invention may be implemented in any system. Furthermore, while this description has been written in terms of a laser probe, the teachings of the present invention are equally suitable to any systems where the functionality may be employed. Therefore, it is the object of the appended claims to cover all such variations and modifications as come within the true spirit and scope of the invention.
This Application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/396,594, filed Sep. 19, 2016.
Number | Date | Country | |
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62396594 | Sep 2016 | US |