Abstract: The present invention includes a cutting blade for performing eye surgery. The cutting blade has a dull distal edge. The sides of the cutting blade have edges, at least a portion of which are sharp. The distal edge extends between the first and second edges in a single plane thereby defining a single line from the first edge to the second edge. The cutting blade may be mounted on a handpiece such that the dull distal edge is disposed substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the handle. The handpiece may include a micrometer control for controlling the amount of the blade which extends from the handpiece. In one embodiment the handpiece is weighted to assist the surgeon in deepening the incision. In addition, transparent footplates may be mounted on the handpiece. In use, the blade of the present invention may be used alone or in combination with conventional surgical blades.

Abstract: A handpiece for the phacoemulsification of cataract tissue is provided in accordance with the present invention. The handpiece can be operatively coupled to a phacoemulsification machine to supply the handpiece with irrigation fluid, aspiration suction and ultrasonic energy. The application of irrigation fluid and aspiration suction to the handpiece are preferably controlled with a foot pedal which is operatively coupled to the phacoemulsification machine. The application of ultrasonic energy to the handpiece is controlled by a button, slide tab, knob or the like which is preferably detachably mounted to the main body of the handpiece so that the application of ultrasonic energy can be manually controlled by the surgeon.

Abstract: A laser may be used to soften the cataractous tissue prior to removal with the wedge-tipped probe. The cataract softening or other laser energy used during the surgical procedure being performed may be delivered through the operating microscope. In the case of cataract softening, when the laser is so delivered, no delay is required between cataract softening and cataract removal.

Abstract: A wedge-shaped probe for the removal of cataractous tissue from within the eye is provided. The wedge-shaped probe has polished distalmost edges so that there are no sharp edges and hence the risk of damage to the cornea, iris or posterior capsule when the probe is used is minimized. Furthermore, the sloped-shape of the probe tip permits effective scooping of cataract material within the eye. Likewise the wedge shape efficiently lifts cortical material off the posterior capsule and is useful for posterior capsule clean-up. The probe can also be used to remove soft cataract material without using ultrasound. Preferably, when the instrument is used for that purpose, a movable spatula element is mounted to the probe and its associated handpiece for crushing and removing material which becomes lodged in the aspiration opening. When operatively coupled to a source of ultrasonic energy, the probe can be used for phacoemulsification of cataract tissue whether or not a spatula is provided.

Abstract: A wedge-shaped probe for the removal of cataractous tissue from within the eye is provided. The wedge-shaped probe has polished distalmost edges so that there are no sharp edges and hence the risk of damage to the cornea, iris or posterior capsule when the probe is used is minimized. Furthermore, the sloped-shape of the probe tip permits effective scooping of cataract material within the eye. Likewise the wedge shape efficiently lifts cortical material off the posterior capsule and is useful for posterior capsule clean-up. The probe can also be used to remove soft cataract material without using ultrasound. Preferably, when the instrument is used for that purpose, a movable spatula element is mounted to the probe and its associated handpiece for crushing and removing material which becomes lodged in the aspiration opening. When operatively coupled to a source of ultrasonic energy, the probe can be used for phacoemulsification of cataract tissue.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for extracting cataract tissue in which the cataract is first softened by focusing laser radiation thereon and subsequently a tube inserted through an incision to a position adjacent the cataract. An irrigating liquid is supplied through one portion of the tube and the liquid and cataract fragments removed via an aspiration opening adjacent the tube opening. Fragments which do not readily pass through the aspiration opening are dislodged by vibration or broken up by a paddle like member pivotally mounted adjacent the aspirating opening to engage the fragment and apply a force to break up the same. The tube has a shovel shaped tip which facilitates separation of fragments from the cataract body and facilitates location of the same adjacent the aspiration opening.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for extracting cataract tissue in which the cataract is first softened by focusing laser radiation thereon and subsequently a tube inserted through an incision to a position adjacent the cataract. An irrigating liquid is supplied through one portion of the tube and the liquid and cataract fragments removed via an aspirating opening adjacent the tube opening. Fragments which do not readily pass through the aspirating opening are dislodged by vibration or broken up by a paddle like member pivotally mounted adjacent the aspirating opening to engage the fragment and apply a force to break up the same.