Abstract: A microkeratome cutting blade assembly 10 includes a cutting blade 12 attached to a blade holder 14. A blade extension 18 is controlled to within at least six (6) ten-thousandths of an inch of a tangent extension length.

Abstract: A microkeratome blade assembly 10 includes a cutting blade 12 attached to a blade holder 14. Either the blade 12 or blade holder 14 includes indicia representative of a blade extension.

Abstract: A surgical cutting instrument includes a hollow hub 15 that has a working portion 16 which terminates at a working end 17 and a connection portion 18 which terminates at a connection end. The connection portion 18 defines a cavity 20 and a lock member 22, which projects from an outer surface 21 of the connection portion 18. A surgical cutting element extends from the working end 17 and is operationally connected to a source of motion. A hollow hub connector 60 has a cylindrical wall 61 with a hand-piece connection portion 62 and a hub engagement portion 65. The hub engagement portion defines a chamber 70 for receiving the connection portion 18 of the hub 15. The chamber 70 has a longitudinal axis A1 parallel to the length of the hub connector 60. The hub engagement portion 65 further defines a channel 75 through the cylindrical wall 61 for receiving the lock member 22. The channel is in communication with the chamber 70 and has a longitudinal section 76 defined along the length L of the connector.

Abstract: A remote control unit for use with an ophthalmic surgical system having a main control console with video display screen and operator interface. The remote controller is connected by an electrical umbilical cord to the main console and provides a second operator display and membrane-switch interface for use by a surgeon or other member of the surgical team. This remote control unit has its own housing with a splash-resistant front face that is divided into primary and secondary operator interface panels. The primary panel includes a rectangular display field having a plurality of back-illumination lights for selectively illuminating legends found on a replaceable legend card that fits within a slot behind the face plates. Control functions corresponding to the illuminated legends may be selected or de-selected by pressing nearby switches arranged in locations adjacent to the display field. The secondary panel also contains membrane switches and legends illuminated by back-lighting.

Abstract: An improved vitrectomy probe for removing vitreous and other fibrous gel materials. A hollow cutting blade is reciprocated within a smooth bore hollow needle of the microsurgical vitrectomy probe across a cutting edge of the outer needle slicing the fibrous material of the vitreous. A pressurized fluid source, diaphragm and spring cooperate to provide for the reciprocation of the blade. A vacuum source removes vitreous material through the hollow needle. A reciprocating suction outlet tube attached to the hollow needle directs vitreous material into a vacuum fitting which is isolated from the motion of the reciprocating outlet tube. An adjustment screw limits the travel of the reciprocating blade as well as the size of the opening in the needle. A dissector head faciitates the separation of vitreous fibers and directs them into the needle opening.