Abstract: Ultrasound systems having a computing device, a steering mechanism, and an ultrasound transducer are disclosed. The ultrasound transducer is configured to generate angularly discrete signals over a scan region of the ultrasound system in response to inputs from the steering mechanism. The computing device is communicatively coupled to the ultrasound transducer. The computing device includes a processor configured to receive angularly discrete ultrasound signals from the ultrasound transducer over the scan region, determine a scan line count corresponding to each of the received angularly discrete ultrasound signals, associate a TGC curve with each of the scan line counts, apply a TGC curve to each of the angularly discrete ultrasound signals as associated with the scan line count of each angularly discrete ultrasound signal, where each of the applied TGC curves defines a gain that maintains, increases, or decreases the angularly discrete ultrasound signal to which it is applied, over time.

Abstract: An ultrasound system includes a computing device, a transducer configured to angulate through a scan region in response to a mechanical drive system that converts rotational motion generated by a motor into angular motion that angulates the transducer through the scan region, and an encoder configured to detect a rotational position of a shaft of the motor. The computing device is configured to determine an angular position of the transducer within the scan region based on the rotational position of the shaft detected by the encoder, and control generation of scan lines from the transducer based on a pulse firing pattern of scan lines to produce a predefined sequence of scan line densities across the scan region and the determined angular position of the transducer.

Abstract: Devices and methods for providing capsular support to areas of zonular weakness and for iris dilation in complex cataract surgery and other ophthalmological procedures. In one embodiment, a device for implantation into an eye includes at least one engagement feature and at least one attachment mechanism. The engagement feature is adapted to engage with the edge of an ocular structure, e.g., the anterior edge of the capsular bag or an iris. The attachment mechanism, e.g., a hole, is coupled to the engagement feature and adapted to receive an anchor, e.g., an iris hook or suture, that biases the device towards the edge of the ocular structure.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for measuring the thickness of the corneas. Corneal thickness is measured by first directing ultrasonic pulses towards the cornea and timing the interval between reflected pulses. The apparatus also includes a pulse stretcher for enlarging the width of the pulse representing the interval between pulses reflected from the inner and the outer surfaces of the cornea, so that the time between pulses can be accurately measured by a conventional, low-frequency electronic clock. The invention further comprises electronic gating means for rejecting spurious pulses.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for measuring the thickness of the cornea and for regulating the depth of a surgical blade in relation to the local corneal thickness. Corneal thickness is measured by first directing ultrasonic pulses towards the cornea and timing the interval between reflected pulses. The apparatus also includes a pulse stretcher for enlarging the width of the pulse representing the interval between pulses reflected from the inner and the outer surfaces of the cornea, so that the time between pulses can be accurately measured by a conventional, low-frequency electronic clock. The invention further comprises electronic gating means for rejecting spurious pulses.