Abstract: A diffusing optical fiber tip yielding a homogenous output pattern having a total illumination angle of at least 180 degrees. The diffusing optical fiber tip has an outer diameter which is no greater than that of the optical fiber, and appears as a point source of illumination, having substantially the same output pattern when immersed in water as it does in air. The diffusing optical fiber tip is manufactured on the end of a typical acrylic optical fiber by causing longitudinal stresses in the fiber end, which are then relieved by forming axial cracks in the fiber core at the optical fiber tip. As a result, light exiting the optical fiber must traverse a scrambled pathway caused by a complex interaction of reflections and refractions, yielding wide angle diffuse illumination.

Abstract: A device for preventing post occlusion flow surges during eye surgery includes an enclosure defining an inlet and an outlet. The enclosure further defines a flow passage between the inlet and the outlet. A restriction is positioned in the flow passage. Structure preferring a filtering function is placed upstream of the restriction for permitting fluid passage through the device. The enclosure further defines a storage area for collecting material restrained by the filter structure. In the preferred embodiment, the device is constructing from a suitable plastic or other molded material, and is intended for disposable use.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cassette 12 and vacuum aspiration collection system 10 for ophthalmic surgery. The cassette 12 comprises two parts 14, 16 under vacuum where the smaller part 14 discharges into the larger part 16 and the vacuum provided to both parts is provided by a single unit 30. The vacuum control system 10 has improved response to the user's demand.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cassette and vacuum aspiration collection system for ophthalmic surgery. The cassette comprises two parts under vacuum where the smaller part discharges into the larger part and the vacuum provided to both parts is provided by a single unit. The vacuum control system has improved response to the user's demand.

Abstract: A surgical instrument for the treatment of simple inferior or superior retinal detachments and a method of using the same. The surgical instrument has an elongated probe with an outer tube and an inner tube slideably engaged in the outer tube. Generally the instrument has a cutting edge and an aspiration port connected to a vacuum. A non-expanding gas delivery channel, having an outer diameter approximately that of a 36 gauge needle (0.13 mm) is adjacent the outer tube. The overall outer diameter of the probe is less than that of a 23 gauge needle (0.63 mm). In use the probe is inserted in the vitreous cavity through a small sclerotomy incision. The inner tube oscillates within the outer tube and vitreal material is drawn into the suction port, excised by the cutting edge, and removed by vacuum. Simultaneously, non-expanding gas is introduced through the gas channel to equalize intraocular pressure.

Abstract: A plug for repairing a defect in the retina. The plug can be made from a biodegradable, non-biodegradable, natural or synthetic material. The plug is dimensioned to fit the defect during a vitrectomy procedure to prevent ingress of vitreous fluid into the subretinal space and prevent the migration of pigmented retinal cells. The plug can be formed from a solution that gels at body temperature to form a plug.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for dimming the white light received by an optical fiber. The apparatus is a cover having a thin edge and a flat surface for application to the optical fiber commencing at the fiber rim.

Abstract: A receptacle and plug assembly for connecting a plurality of optical fibers to a single light source. The receptacle contains a plurality of individual sockets. The receptacle is generally cylindrical and the sockets are generally pie shaped and arranged within the receptacle about a focal point. The light is focused on the focal point. Each socket has a spring biased shutter that remains in the closed position when not in use. Each plug is configured to fit into any one of the sockets and to open the shutter when introduced into the socket. The receptacle has guides between the individual sockets to facilitate introduction of the plug. Each plug has an axial bore containing one end of an optical fiber. When a plug is inserted into a socket, the end of the optical fiber is positioned at the focal point and exposed to the light. When more than one plug is inserted in the receptacle the light effectively illuminates all of the fibers simultaneously.

Abstract: A surgical instrument for the treatment of simple inferior or superior retinal detachments and a method of using the same. The surgical instrument has an elongated probe with an outer tube and an inner tube slidably engaged in the outer tube. Generally, the instrument has a cutting edge and an aspiration port connected to a vacuum. A non-expanding gas delivery channel, having an outer diameter approximately that of a 36 gauge needle (0.13 mm) is adjacent the outer tube. The overall outer diameter of the probe is less than that of a 23 gauge needle (0.635 mm). In use, the probe is inserted in the vitreous cavity through a small sclerotomy incision. The inner tube oscillates within the outer tube and vitreal material is drawn into the suction port, excised by the cutting edge, and removed by vacuum. Simultaneously, non-expanding gas is introduced through the gas channel to equalize intraocular pressure.