Abstract: A phacoemulsification needle (100, 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 200, 200A) is provided for emulsifying body tissue. The needle (100, 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 200, 200A) is adapted to be attached to a phacoemulsification handpiece that imparts a vibration to the needle (100, 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 200, 200A). The needle (100, 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 200, 200A) has a body (104, 220, 220A) with a distal end (99), a proximal end (106), and an aspiration passage (124) extending between the proximal and distal ends (99, 106). The aspiration passage (124) defines a longitudinally-extending central body axis (110, 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D). The aspiration passage (124) is enlarged at the distal end (99) to define a tip (102, 102A, 102B, 102C, 102D, 210, 210A).

Abstract: An irrigation and aspiration apparatus suited for irrigation and aspiration during an eye surgery procedure includes a hollow aspiration cannula having proximal and distal ends. An outer, aspiration tip is positioned on at least the distal end of the aspiration cannula, and includes a generally spherical body portion defining an aspiration port in fluid communication with an interior passage defined by the aspiration cannula. The aspiration cannula defines an annular retention step at an outer surface thereof spaced from the distal end, with the aspiration tip defining an internal, annular abutment surface for engagement with the annular retention step to maintain the aspiration tip on the cannula in substantially fluid-tight relationship therewith.

Abstract: A phacoemulsification needle having a hollow passageway terminates in a straight needle tip formed off-axis from the passageway, allowing the needle tip to move eccentrically when the needle is subjected to torsional or longitudinal vibratory motion. The tip may be flared or may be coextensive with the needle body. The aspiration passageway formed through the needle body may be formed off-axis from the needle body axis. The tip may also be angled with respect to the needle body. The inner and outer surfaces of the needle tip are roughened, as by sandblasting, to enhance the cutting effect of the tip when used with a non-longitudinal handpiece. The lip of each needle tip is polished to a high degree of smoothness and the edges of the tip are rounded to lessen the incidence of snags or cuts.