Abstract: A surgical system combines a cannula and an instrument in a manner that allows small gauge instruments to be used effectively, with little or no bending with respect to the manipulating proximal side of the instrument. Such design overcomes the shortcomings of prior art, and applies to various microsurgical procedures, including ophthalmology, allowing the use of smaller endo-photocoagulation probes, illumination probes, combination probes, vitrectors, scissors, manipulators, picks, diathermy, and others. By using smaller gauge, patient recovery is expected to be faster.

Abstract: A probe for endo-ocular photocoagulation procedures provides straight and curved tip configurations. A flexible tubular material, pre-formed with a radius of curvature, allows the tip to be inserted through a trocar cannula and to resume its pre-formed shape for use during a surgical procedure. Alternatively, a tubular material is pre-formed with a radius of curvature, and is stiffened by use of a preferably stainless steel tube. Inside the tubular material is a distal end of at least one optical fiber, inserted such that its tip is coterminous with the tubular material. A tube surrounds the optical fiber and is free to move along the axis of the assembly, acting to straighten the tubular and optical fiber members as it moves forward via a sliding member associated with the hand piece. Illumination energy, laser energy, or both may be supplied to the targeted surgical site.

Abstract: An illumination and laser energy delivery system, including an extended tip laser and illumination probe for retinal surgery, is disclosed that allows efficient delivery of laser and illumination energy to a surgical site through a device that is smaller than the standard 20 gauge probe conventionally used in endo-photocoagulation procedures. Novel constructions, as disclosed, enable the space inside the probe cannula to be used more efficiently than in prior art devices, providing improved performance of the device and system in delivering laser and illumination energy to the surgical site.