Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for simulating certain regions of the anatomy involved in ophthalmological surgery. In particular, the present invention provides a practice cornea simulating dimensional, geometric and mechanical properties of a human cornea. In one embodiment, the practice cornea is seated in tight apposition to a simulated iris that is characterized by dimensional and geometric properties similar to a human iris. The practice cornea seated upon the simulated iris may be inserted into an aperture in a simulated sclera, forming therewith a smooth surface similar to that found in the anterior part of the human eye. The simulated sclera may be provided with dimensional and geometric characteristics resembling the human sclera. The combination of these elements provides an anatomic replica of the anterior part of the human eye upon which surgeons may realistically practice surgical techniques, in particular corneal incisions.

Abstract: This invention relates to an improved guarded surgical scalpel having a movable guard that can be retracted to expose the blade and that can be extended to cover the sharp cutting edge of the blade. The guard is telescopically mounted inside the blade handle and includes a deflectable top wall portion that holds a detent pin. This detent pin engages a slot having upturned ends that is formed in at least one side wall of the blade handle. The detent pin is biased upwardly into the upturned ends to hold the guard in the retracted or extended position.