Abstract: The outer cannula of an ophthalmic irrigator-aspirator has rigid tip and butt sections and a more flexible central section. The central section can be an elastomeric sleeve that extends between the tip and butt sections. The outer cannula includes reinforcement members that prevent the elastomeric sleeve from becoming completely closed by compression caused by a tight fit in an incision in a patient's cornea. The reinforcement members may be rigid or somewhat flexible.

Abstract: Method and apparatus providing to a medical practitioner visual feedback of information revelant to a surgical or therapeutic procedure are described. Vacuum and pressure conditions are sensed by a "T" section tap onto the aspiration and irrigation lines of conventional equipment. Ultrasonic power level also is sensed, by electronic means responsive to conventional emulsification equipment. The signals produced thereby are processed to produce an image the reflection of which off the patient's cornea is visible to the surgeon and interpretable by the surgeon as indicative of the conditions. Processing and imaging means convert the analog signals to a digital code used to modulate the various elements of a circularly arrayed, plural element light source. The processing and imaging electronics are contained within a light array housing connected at the end of a freestanding, flexible, gooseneck lamp fixture.