Abstract: A method for using a smaller diameter infusion sleeve that reduces the potential for heat buildup and also provides adequate irrigation flow.

Abstract: A surgical irrigation system having reduced irrigation flow resistance. Reduction in irrigation fluid flow resistance is achieved by increasing the diameter of the irrigation fluid tubings. The ends of the tubings are tapered to reduce the stiffness of the tubings and to allow the tubings to be connected to current surgical devices.

Abstract: A method of conducting traditional two-handed phacoemulsification through two relatively small incisions by using a phacoemulsification tip/sleeve with reduced diameter along with a second irrigation tip, with or without an attached manipulation tool.

Abstract: A method for using a smaller diameter infusion sleeve that reduces the potential for heat buildup and also provides adequate irrigation flow.

Abstract: A method of conducting traditional two-handed phacoemulsification through two relatively small incisions by using a phacoemulsification tip/sleeve with reduced diameter along with a second irrigation tip, with or without an attached manipulation tool.

Abstract: A surgical system having a cassette with an aspirant collection chamber and an aspiration exhaust line that drains into the aspirant collection chamber. A fluid line containing a valve allowing fluid from the irrigation fluid container to be vented into the aspirant collection chamber. A source of pressurized air is connected to the irrigation fluid container and is used to pressurize the fluid container. When the pressure within the fluid container needs to be increased, pressurized air from the pressurized air source is allowed to enter the fluid container. When the pressure within the fluid container needs to be decreased, irrigation fluid is allowed to be bled out of the fluid container and inter the collection chamber. In this manner, a direct fluidic connection with the gas contained within the fluid container does not need to be maintained.

Abstract: A cassette for use with a surgical system, the cassette having an aspirant collection chamber and an aspiration exhaust line that drains into the aspirant collection chamber. A fluid line containing a valve allow fluid from the irrigation fluid container to be vented into the aspirant collection chamber. A source of pressurized air is connected to the irrigation fluid container and is used to pressurize the fluid container. When the pressure within the fluid container needs to be increased, pressurized air from the pressurized air source is allowed to enter the fluid container. When the pressure within the fluid container needs to be decreased, irrigation fluid is allowed to be bled out of the fluid container and inter the collection chamber. In this manner, a direct fluidic connection with the gas contained within the fluid container does not need to be maintained.

Abstract: A surgical system having a cassette with an aspirant collection chamber and an aspiration exhaust line that drains into the aspirant collection chamber. A fluid line containing a valve allowing fluid from the irrigation fluid container to be vented into the aspirant collection chamber. A source of pressurized air is connected to the irrigation fluid container and is used to pressurize the fluid container. When the pressure within the fluid container needs to be increased, pressurized air from the pressurized air source is allowed to enter the fluid container. When the pressure within the fluid container needs to be decreased, irrigation fluid is allowed to be bled out of the fluid container and inter the collection chamber. In this manner, a direct fluidic connection with the gas contained within the fluid container does not need to be maintained.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing multi-protocol communications via a single system is accomplished by receiving a message from a first communications device wherein the message includes the identity of at least a first communications device and a second communications device. When the first communications device utilizes a different communications protocol than the second communication device, the messages transceived between the two communication devices are converted by an appropriate communication protocol. Such conversion is done by first converting an incoming message having a first communication protocol format into a message having a generic communication protocol format. The message having the generic communication protocol format is then converted into a message having a second communication protocol format, which message is subsequently routed to the second communication device.

Abstract: The multi-ported valve assembly includes a valve body having a plurality of individual ports disposed in a common plane and a common port having its axis disposed perpendicularly to the common plane of the individual ports. The valve assembly includes a selector means having a body portion designed to engage the valve body and provide selective communication between one of the individual ports and the common port. The selector means includes a handle to facilitate rotation thereof and selection of a desired fluid flow passageway as well as indicator means to indicate direction of fluid flow. Also provided are sealing means to prevent external leakage during use and suitable connecting or coupling means to provide connection especially in devices and apparatus used in ophthalmic surgical procedures.

Abstract: Skin Fold Caliper having first and second relatively rigid arms which have one end of each of the first and second members connected to permit pivotal movement of the first and second arms with respect to each other so that the other ends of the first and second arms can be moved between open and closed positions. A gauge is carried by the first and second arms for giving an indication of the spacing between the other ends of the first and second arms. A spring-like member formed integral with one of the arms is utilized for applying a predetermined clamping pressure between the first and second arms to move the other ends of the first and second arms toward the closed position.