U.S. patent application number 12/217295 was filed with the patent office on 2014-03-06 for system and apparatus for delivering a laser beam to the lens of an eye.
The applicant listed for this patent is Jorge A. De Castro, George R. Downes, JR., Rudolph W. Frey, Gary P. Gray, Jerome R. Kuszak, Richard Ty Olmstead, Neil Zepkin. Invention is credited to Jorge A. De Castro, George R. Downes, JR., Rudolph W. Frey, Gary P. Gray, Jerome R. Kuszak, Richard Ty Olmstead, Neil Zepkin.
Application Number | 20140066906 12/217295 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41464935 |
Filed Date | 2014-03-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140066906 |
Kind Code |
A9 |
Frey; Rudolph W. ; et
al. |
March 6, 2014 |
System and apparatus for delivering a laser beam to the lens of an
eye
Abstract
A system and apparatus for increasing the amplitude of
accommodation and/or changing the refractive power and/or enabling
the removal of the clear or cataractous lens material of a natural
crystalline lens is provided. Generally, the system comprises a
laser, optics for delivering the laser beam and a control system
for delivering the laser beam to the lens in a particular pattern.
There is further provided a range determining system for
determining the shape and position of the lens with respect to the
laser. There is yet further provided a method and system for
delivering a laser beam in the lens of the eye in a predetermined
shot pattern.
Inventors: |
Frey; Rudolph W.; (Maitland,
FL) ; Gray; Gary P.; (Orlando, FL) ; Zepkin;
Neil; (Oviedo, FL) ; Downes, JR.; George R.;
(Orlando, FL) ; De Castro; Jorge A.; (Casselberry,
FL) ; Kuszak; Jerome R.; (Oak Park, IL) ;
Olmstead; Richard Ty; (Oviedo, FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Frey; Rudolph W.
Gray; Gary P.
Zepkin; Neil
Downes, JR.; George R.
De Castro; Jorge A.
Kuszak; Jerome R.
Olmstead; Richard Ty |
Maitland
Orlando
Oviedo
Orlando
Casselberry
Oak Park
Oviedo |
FL
FL
FL
FL
FL
IL
FL |
US
US
US
US
US
US
US |
|
|
Prior
Publication: |
|
Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20100004641 A1 |
January 7, 2010 |
|
|
Family ID: |
41464935 |
Appl. No.: |
12/217295 |
Filed: |
July 2, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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PCT/US07/01486 |
Jan 19, 2007 |
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12217295 |
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11414819 |
May 1, 2006 |
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PCT/US07/01486 |
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11337127 |
Jan 20, 2006 |
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11414819 |
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11414838 |
May 1, 2006 |
8262646 |
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PCT/US07/01486 |
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11337127 |
Jan 20, 2006 |
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11414838 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
606/4 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 9/00827 20130101;
A61F 2009/00844 20130101; A61F 2009/00842 20130101; A61B 2018/204
20130101; A61F 9/00825 20130101; A61B 2018/20351 20170501; A61F
2009/00897 20130101; A61F 9/008 20130101; A61B 2018/20361 20170501;
A61F 2009/0087 20130101; A61B 2090/061 20160201; A61F 9/00838
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
606/4 |
International
Class: |
A61F 9/008 20060101
A61F009/008; A61B 18/20 20060101 A61B018/20 |
Claims
1. A system for treating conditions of the lens comprising: a laser
for providing a laser beam, the beam being of sufficient power to
provide therapeutic effects on crystalline lens tissue of an eye;
an attenuator; the attenuator positionable between a first and a
second position; laser focusing optics; a scanner; a control
system; and a range determination system; wherein when the
attenuator is in the first position it does not reduce the power of
the beam below therapeutic effectiveness and when the attenuator is
in the second position it does reduce the power of the beam below
therapeutic effectiveness while still having sufficient power to be
used for range determinations.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the system comprises a
predetermined shot pattern for delivering the laser beam to the
lens of the eye.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the power of the laser for
therapeutic effects is sufficient to exceed LIOB of the lens of the
eye, when the beam passes through the system to the eye.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the power of the laser in
combination with the effect of the attenuator is such that when the
attenuator is in the first position the laser beam passing through
the system does not exceed LIOB of the lens of the eye.
5. A system for determining the position of the lens comprising: a
laser; an attenuator; a means to sense a laser beam which has
passed through the attenuator and at least a portion of the lens of
an eye; laser focusing optics; a scanner; a control system; and the
control system comprising a means for determining the position of a
capsule of the lens based at least in part upon the data obtained
by the sensing means.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the control system comprises a
shot pattern for delivering a laser beam from the laser to the lens
of the eye.
7. The system of claim 6, wherein the attenuator is movable between
a first position and a second position.
8. The system of claim 7, wherein when the attenuator is in the
first position the laser beam passes through the attenuator.
9. The system of claim 8, wherein when the attenuator is in the
second position the laser beam does not pass through the
attenuator.
10. A system for delivering a laser beam to a lens of an eye
comprising: a laser for producing a laser beam; a scanner; an
optical path for directing a laser beam from the laser to the lens
of the eye; a means for determining the position of the lens, said
means comprising a scanned laser illumination source and an
attenuator and, a control system for: focusing a laser beam to a
location in the lens of the eye; and, said location being based at
least in part information obtained from the determining means.
11. A system for delivering a laser beam to a lens of an eye
comprising: a laser for producing a laser beam; a scanner; focusing
optics; means for determining the position of the lens; and a
control system capable of: directing the laser beam in the lens of
the eye in a pattern of shots, the shot pattern based in part upon
the geometry of a natural human lens; and, focusing a shot of the
shot pattern in the lens of the eye based in part upon information
provided by the determining means.
12. The system of claim 11, wherein the means for determining the
position of the lens comprises a range determination system.
13. The system of claim 11, wherein the means for determining the
position of the lens provides data to the controller, which data
forms at least in part, a basis for prevent the laser from focusing
on the posterior surface of the lens.
14. A system for delivering laser beams to a lens of an eye
comprising: a laser for producing a therapeutic laser beam; a
scanner; focusing optics; a control system for directing the laser
beam to the lens of the eye in shot pattern; an attenuator
positionable in the path of the laser beam for reducing the poser
of the laser beam below therapeutic effects; the beam after passing
through the attenuator being scanned by the scanner; and the
therapeutic laser beam being scanned by the scanner.
Description
[0001] Applicants claim, under 35 U.S.C. .sctn..sctn.120 and 365,
the benefit of priority of the filing date of Jan. 19, 2007 of a
Patent Cooperation Treaty patent application Serial Number
PCT/US07/01486, filed on the aforementioned date, the entire
contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, wherein
Patent Cooperation Treaty patent application Serial Number
PCT/US07/001486 is a continuation-in-part of pending application
Frey et al. Ser. No. 11/414,819 filed May 1, 2006, and a
continuation-in-part of pending application Frey et al. Ser. No.
11/414,838 filed May 1, 2006, both of which are
continuation-in-parts of pending application Frey et al. Ser. No.
11/337,127 filed Jan. 20, 2006, the disclosures of each of the
above mentioned pending applications are incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to systems and apparatus for
delivering a laser beam to and treating the structure of the
natural human crystalline lens with a laser to address a variety of
medical conditions such as presbyopia, refractive error and
cataracts and combinations of these.
[0003] The anatomical structures of the eye are shown in general in
FIG. 1, which is a cross sectional view of the eye. The sclera 131
is the white tissue that surrounds the lens 103 except at the
cornea 101. The cornea 101 is the transparent tissue that comprises
the exterior surface of the eye through which light first enters
the eye. The iris 102 is a colored, contractible membrane that
controls the amount of light entering the eye by changing the size
of the circular aperture at its center (the pupil). The ocular or
natural crystalline lens 103, a more detailed picture of which is
shown in FIGS. 1A-F, (utilizing similar reference numbers for
similar structures) is located just posterior to the iris 102. The
terms ocular lens, natural crystalline lens, natural lens, natural
human crystalline lens, and lens (when referring to the prior
terms) are used interchangeably herein and refer to the same
anatomical structure of the human eye.
[0004] Generally, the ocular lens changes shape through the action
of the ciliary muscle 108 to allow for focusing of a visual image.
A neural feedback mechanism from the brain allows the ciliary
muscle 108, acting through the attachment of the zonules 111, to
change the shape of the ocular lens. Generally, sight occurs when
light enters the eye through the cornea 101 and pupil, then
proceeds through the ocular lens 103 through the vitreous 110 along
the visual axis 104, strikes the retina 105 at the back of the eye,
forming an image at the macula 106 that is transferred by the optic
nerve 107 to the brain. The space between the cornea 101 and the
retina 105 is filled with a liquid called the aqueous 117 in the
anterior chamber 109 and the vitreous 110, a gel-like clear
substance, in the chamber posterior to the lens 103.
[0005] FIG. 1A illustrates, in general, components of and related
to the lens 103 for a typical 50-year old individual. The lens 103
is a multi-structural system. The lens 103 structure includes a
cortex 113, and a nucleus 129, and a lens capsule 114. The capsule
114 is an outer membrane that envelopes the other interior
structures of the lens. The lens epithelium 123 forms at the lens
equatorial 121 generating ribbon-like cells or fibrils that grow
anteriorly and posteriorly around the ocular lens. The nucleus 129
is formed from successive additions of the cortex 113 to the
nuclear regions. The continuum of layers in the lens, including the
nucleus 129, can be characterized into several layers, nuclei or
nuclear regions. These layers include an embryonic nucleus 122, a
fetal nucleus 130, both of which develop in the womb, an infantile
nucleus 124, which develops from birth through four years for an
average of about three years, an adolescent nucleus 126, which
develops from about four years until puberty which averages about
12 years, and the adult nucleus 128, which develops at about 18
years and beyond.
[0006] The embryonic nucleus 122 is about 0.5 mm in equatorial
diameter (width) and 0.425 mm in Anterior-Posterior axis 104 (AP
axis) diameter (thickness). The fetal nucleus 130 is about 6.0 mm
in equatorial diameter and 3.0 mm in AP axis 104 diameter. The
infantile nucleus 124 is about 7.2 mm in equatorial diameter and
3.6 mm in AP axis 104 diameter. The adolescent nucleus 126 is about
9.0 mm in equatorial diameter and 4.5 mm in AP axis 104 diameter.
The adult nucleus 128 at about age 36 is about 9.6 mm in equatorial
diameter and 4.8 mm in AP axis 104 diameter. These are all average
values for a typical adult human lens approximately age 50 in the
accommodated state, ex vivo. Thus this lens (nucleus and cortex) is
about 9.8 mm in equatorial diameter and 4.9 mm in AP axis 104
diameter. Thus, the structure of the lens is layered or nested,
with the oldest layers and oldest cells towards the center.
[0007] The lens is a biconvex shape as shown in FIGS. 1 and 1A. The
anterior and posterior sides of the lens have different curvatures
and the cortex and the different nuclei in general follow those
curvatures. Thus, the lens can be viewed as essentially a
stratified structure that is asymmetrical along the equatorial axis
and consisting of long crescent fiber cells arranged end-to-end to
form essentially concentric or nested shells. The ends of these
cells align to form suture lines in the central and paracentral
areas both anteriorly and posteriorly. The older tissue in both the
cortex and nucleus has reduced cellular function, having lost their
cell nuclei and other organelles several months after cell
formation.
[0008] Compaction of the lens occurs with aging. The number of lens
fibers that grow each year is relatively constant throughout life.
However, the size of the lens does not become as large as expected
from new fiber growth. The lens grows from birth through age 3,
from 6 mm to 7.2 mm or 20% growth in only 3 years. Then the next
approximate decade, growth is from 7.2 mm to 9 mm or 25%; however,
this is over a 3 times longer period of 9 years. Over the next
approximate 2 decades, from age 12 to age 36 the lens grows from 9
mm to 9.6 mm or 6.7% growth in 24 years, showing a dramatically
slowing observed growth rate, while we believe there is a
relatively constant rate of fiber growth during this period.
Finally, in the last approximately 2 decades described, from age 36
to age 54, the lens grows by a tiny fraction of its youthful
growth, from 9.6 to 9.8 mm or 2.1% in 18 years. Although there is a
geometry effect of needing more lens fibers to fill larger outer
shells, the size of the older lens is considerably smaller than
predicted by fiber growth rate models, which consider geometry
effects. Fiber compaction including nuclear fiber compaction is
thought to explain these observations.
[0009] In the lens of an eye there is located an Organelle rich
zone which is located in the fiber elongating region of the lens.
In this region the fiber cells have a complete complement of
organelles, including a cell nucleus. For example, in an
approximately 50 year old lens the organelle rich region would be
about 250 .mu.m from the equator tapering to about 100-150 .mu.m at
the poles (about 100 .mu.m at the anterior pole and about 150 .mu.m
at the posterior pole).
[0010] Moving inward from the outer surface of the lens, there is a
region having less organelles, which is referred to as the
organelle degradation region. This region overlaps to some extent
with the inner portion of the organelle rich zone. In this zone the
organelles are being degraded or eliminated. The fibers are
actively eliminating the organelles including the nucleus. For
example, in an approximately 50 year old lens the degradation
region would extend from the organelle rich zone to about 300 .mu.m
from the equator tapering to about 125-200 .mu.m at the poles
(about 125 .mu.m at the anterior pole and about 200 .mu.m at the
posterior pole).
[0011] Moving inward from the outer surface of the lens, there is a
region having essentially no organelles, which is refereed to as
the organelle free zone. This region would be located inward of the
degradation region and would overlap with this region to some
extent. The fibers in the organelle free region would be
denucleated and the material in this region of the lens would be
considered denucleated.
[0012] In general, presbyopia is the loss of accommodative
amplitude. In general refractive error is typically due to
variations in the axial length of the eye. Myopia is when the eye
is too long resulting in the focus falling in front of the retina.
Hyperopia is when the eye is too short resulting in the focus
falling behind the retina. In general, cataracts are areas of
opacification of the ocular lens which are sufficient to interfere
with vision. Other conditions, for which the present invention is
directed, include but are not limited to the opacification of the
ocular lens.
[0013] Presbyopia most often presents as a near vision deficiency,
the inability to read small print, especially in dim lighting after
about 40-45 years of age. Presbyopia, or the loss of accommodative
amplitude with age, relates to the eyes inability to change the
shape of the natural crystalline lens, which allows a person to
change focus between far and near, and occurs in essentially 100%
of the population. Accommodative amplitude has been shown to
decline with age steadily through the fifth decade of life.
[0014] Historically, studies have generally attributed loss of
accommodation to the hardening of the crystalline lens with age and
more specifically, to an increase in the Young's Modulus of
Elasticity of the lens material. More recent studies have examined
the effect of aging on the relative change in material properties
between the nucleus and cortex. These studies have provided varying
theories and data with respect to the hardening of the lens. In
general, such studies have essentially proposed the theory that the
loss of flexibility is the result of an increase in the Young's
Modulus of Elasticity of the nucleus and/or cortex material. Such
studies have viewed this hardening as the primary factor in the
loss of accommodative amplitude with age and hence the cause of
presbyopia.
[0015] Although the invention is not bound by it, the present
specification postulates a different theory of how this loss of
lens flexibility occurs to cause presbyopia. In general, it is
postulated that the structure of the lens rather than the material
properties of the lens plays a greater role in loss of flexibility
and resultant presbyopia than was previously understood. Thus,
contrary to the teachings of the prior studies in this field as set
forth above, material elasticity is not the dominate cause of
presbyopia. Rather, it is postulated that it is the structure of
the lens and changes in that structure with age that are the
dominant causes of presbyopia. Thus, without being limited to or
bound by this theory, the present invention discloses a variety of
methods and systems to provide laser treatments to increase the
flexibility of the lens, based at least in part on the structure of
the lens and structural changes that occur to the lens with aging.
The present invention further discloses providing laser treatments
to increase the flexibility of the lens that are based primarily on
the structure of the lens and structural changes that occur to the
lens with aging.
[0016] Accordingly, the postulated theory of this specification can
be illustrated for exemplary purposes by looking to and examining a
simple hypothetical model. It further being understood this
hypothetical model is merely to illustrate the present theory and
not to predict how a lens will react to laser pulses, and/or
structural changes. To understand how important structure alone can
be, consider a very thin plank of wood, say 4 ft by 4 ft square but
0.1 inch thick. This thin plank is not very strong and if held
firmly on one end, it does not take much force to bend this thin
plank considerably. Now consider five of these same 0.1 inch
thickness planks stacked on top of each other, but otherwise not
bound or tied together. The strength would increase and for the
same force a somewhat smaller deflection will occur. Now, consider
taking those same five planks and fastening them together with many
screws or by using very strong glue, or by using many C-Clamps to
bind them together. The strength of the bound planks is much higher
and the deflection seen from the same force would be much
smaller.
[0017] Without saying this simple model reflects the complex
behavior of the lens, we generally hypothesize that when
considering a volume of lens material, especially near the poles
(AP axis), that is essentially bound by increased friction and
compaction due to aging, that separating those bound layers into
essentially unbound layers will increase the deflection of those
layers for the same applied force and hence increase flexibility of
the lens. Applicants, however, do not intend to be bound by the
present theory, and it is provided solely to advance the art, and
is not intended to and does not restrict or diminish the scope of
the invention,
[0018] Thus, further using this model for illustration purposes,
under the prior theories and treatments for presbyopia, the
direction was principally toward the material properties, i.e.,
Modulus of the material in the stack, rather than on the structure
of the stack, i.e., whether the layers were bound together. On the
other hand, the presently postulated theory is directed toward
structural features and the effects that altering those features
have on flexibility.
[0019] In general, current presbyopia treatments tend to be
directed toward alternatives to increasing the amplitude of
accommodation of the natural crystalline lens. These treatments
include a new class of artificial accommodative Intraocular Lenses
(IOL's), such as the Eyeonics CRYSTALENS, which are designed to
change position within the eye; however, they offer only about 1
diopter of objectively measured accommodative amplitude, while many
practitioners presently believe 3 or more diopters are required to
restore normal visual function for near and far objects. Moreover,
researchers are pursuing techniques and materials to refill the
lens capsule with synthetic materials. Additionally, present
surgical techniques to implant artificial accommodative IOL's are
those developed for the more serious condition of cataracts. It is
believed that practitioners are reluctant at the present time to
replace a patient's clear albeit presbyopic natural crystalline
lens, with an accommodative IOL due to the risks of this invasive
surgical technique on a patient who may simply wear reading glasses
to correct the near vision deficiency. However, developments may
offer greater levels of accommodative amplitude in implantable
devices and refilling materials. To better utilize such device
improvements and to increase the accommodative amplitude of
existing implantable devices, improved surgical techniques are
provided herein as a part of the present invention.
[0020] Refractive error, typically due to the length of the eye
being too long (myopia) or too short (hyperopia) is another very
common problem effecting about one-half of the population. Laser
surgery on the cornea, as proposed by Trokel and L'Esperance and
improved by Frey and others, does offer effective treatment of
refractive errors but factors such as higher degrees of refractive
error, especially in hyperopia, thin corneas or a changing
refractive error with time, such as that brought on by presbyopia,
limit the clinical use of laser corneal surgery for many.
SUMMARY
[0021] Provided herein are embodiments of the present invention.
Accordingly, there is provided a system for treating conditions of
the lens in general comprising a laser for providing a laser beam,
the beam being of sufficient power to provide therapeutic effects
on crystalline lens tissue of an eye, an attenuator, the attenuator
positionable between a first and a second position, laser focusing
optics, a scanner, a control system, and, a range determination
system, wherein when the attenuator is in the first position it
does not reduce the power of the beam below therapeutic
effectiveness and when the attenuator is in the second position it
does reduce the power of the beam below therapeutic effectiveness
while still having sufficient power to be used for range
determinations. This system may further comprise a predetermined
shot pattern for delivering the laser beam to the lens of the eye.
The power of the laser for therapeutic effects may be sufficient to
exceed LIOB, as defined in the detailed description, of the lens of
the eye, when the beam passes through the system to the eye. The
power of the laser in combination with the effect of the attenuator
may be such that when the attenuator is in the first position the
laser beam passing through the system does not exceed LIOB of the
lens of the eye.
[0022] Further, there is provided a system for determining the
position of the lens in general comprising, a laser, an attenuator,
a means to sense a laser beam which has passed through the
attenuator and at least a portion of the lens of an eye, laser
focusing optics, a scanner, a control system, and, the control
system comprising a means for determining the position of a capsule
of the lens based at least in part upon the data obtained by the
sensing means. The control system may further comprises a shot
pattern for delivering a laser beam from the laser to the lens of
the eye. The attenuator may also be movable between a first
position and a second position. Further the when the attenuator is
in the first position the laser beam passes through the attenuator
and when the attenuator is in the second position the laser beam
does not pass through the attenuator.
[0023] Moreover, there is provided a system for delivering a laser
beam to a lens of an eye in general comprising a laser for
producing a laser beam, a scanner, an optical path for directing a
laser beam from the laser to the lens of the eye, a means for
determining the position of the lens, said means comprising a
scanned laser illumination source and an attenuator and, a control
system for focusing a laser beam to a location in the lens of the
eye, and, said location being based at least in part information
obtained from the determining means.
[0024] There is still further provided a system for delivering a
laser beam to a lens of an eye in general comprising a laser for
producing a laser beam, focusing optics, means for determining the
position of the lens, and, a control system capable of directing
the laser beam in the lens of the eye in a pattern of shots, the
shot pattern based in part upon the geometry of a natural human
lens, and, focusing a shot of the shot pattern in the lens of the
eye based in part upon information provided by the determining
means. In this system the means for determining the position of the
lens may comprise a range determination system. Further, in this
system the means for determining the position of the lens may
provide data to the controller, which data forms at least in part,
a basis for preventing the laser from focusing on the posterior
surface of the lens.
[0025] Further, there is provided a system for delivering laser
beams to a lens of an eye in general comprising a laser for
producing a therapeutic laser beam, a scanner, focusing optics, a
control system for directing the laser beam to the lens of the eye
in shot pattern, an attenuator positionable in the path of the
laser beam for reducing the poser of the laser beam below
therapeutic effects, the beam after passing through the attenuator
being scanned by the scanner, and, the therapeutic laser beam being
scanned by the scanner.
[0026] One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize, based on
the teachings set forth in these specifications and drawings, that
there are various embodiments and implementations of these
teachings to practice the present invention. Accordingly, the
embodiments in this summary are not meant to limit these teachings
in any way.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] FIGS. 1 and 1A are cross-sectional representations of the
human eye.
[0028] FIG. 2 is a block schematic diagram of a type of system for
delivering a laser beam shot pattern to the lens of an eye
according to the teachings of the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 2A is a block schematic diagram of illustrative
components forming a portion of a system for delivering a laser
beam shot pattern to the lens of an eye according to the teachings
of the present invention.
[0030] FIG. 2B is a block schematic diagram of illustrative
components forming a portion of a system for delivering a laser
beam shot pattern to the lens of an eye according to the teachings
of the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 2C is a block schematic diagram of illustrative
components forming a portion of a system for delivering a laser
beam shot pattern to the lens of an eye according to the teachings
of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 2D is a block schematic diagram of illustrative
components forming a portion of a system for delivering a laser
beam shot pattern to the lens of an eye according to the teachings
of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 2E is a block schematic diagram of illustrative
components forming a portion of a system for delivering a laser
beam shot pattern to the lens of an eye according to the teachings
of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 3 is a diagram of the anterior surface of a lens normal
to the AP axis illustrating a laser shot pattern having a
flower-like shape which has a contour generally following
approximately the last 15% of the fiber length from the end of the
fiber.
[0035] FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D and 4E are diagrams representing
elevation views of the geometry used for the development of laser
shot patterns based upon the structure of the fetal nucleus (three
suture branch nucleus) as it is rotated from the posterior view 4A
through and to the anterior view 4E.
[0036] FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C are diagrams representing posterior,
side and anterior elevation views, respectively, of the geometry
used for the development of laser shot patterns based upon the
structure of the infantile nucleus (six suture branch nucleus).
[0037] FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C are diagrams representing posterior,
side and anterior elevation views, respectively of the geometry
used for the development of laser shot patterns based upon the
structure of the adolescent nucleus (nine suture branch
nucleus).
[0038] FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C are diagrams representing posterior,
side and anterior elevation views, respectively of the geometry
used for the development of laser shot patterns based upon the
structure of an adult nucleus (12 suture branch).
[0039] FIGS. 8 and 8A are perspective cutout views of an adult lens
representing the placement of essentially concentric shells in
accordance with the teachings of the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 9 is a cross-section drawing of the lens relating to
the model developed by Burd.
[0041] FIG. 10 is a cross-section drawing of a lens based upon the
model developed by Burd.
[0042] FIG. 11 is a cross-section drawing of a lens based upon the
model developed by Burd.
[0043] FIG. 12 is a cross-section drawing of a lens based upon the
model developed by Burd.
[0044] FIG. 13 is a cross-section drawing of a lens showing the
placement of a shell laser shot pattern in accordance with the
teachings of the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 14 is a cross-section drawing of a lens showing the
placement of a shell laser shot pattern in accordance with the
teachings of the present invention.
[0046] FIG. 15 is a cross-section drawing of a lens showing the
placement of a partial shell laser shot pattern in accordance with
the teachings of the present invention.
[0047] FIG. 16 is a cross-section drawing of a lens showing the
placement of a partial shell laser shot pattern in accordance with
the teachings of the present invention.
[0048] FIG. 17 is a cross-section drawing of a lens showing the
placement of a shell laser shot pattern in accordance with the
teachings of the present invention.
[0049] FIGS. 18-24 are cross-section drawings of a lens showing the
placement of a volumetric removal laser shot patterns in accordance
with the teachings of the present invention.
[0050] FIG. 25 is a cross-section drawing of a lens showing the
placement of a cube laser shot pattern in accordance with the
teachings of the present invention.
[0051] FIGS. 26-27 are cross-section drawings of a lens showing the
placement of a gradient index modification laser shot patterns in
accordance with the teachings of the present invention.
[0052] FIGS. 28A, C and E are diagrams depicting laser suture cut
shot patterns on the anterior portion of a lens of the present
invention.
[0053] FIGS. 28B, D, and F are diagrams illustrating the placement
of the shot patterns of FIGS. 28A, C, and E respectively.
[0054] FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating the relative placement of
the shot patterns of FIGS. 28A, C, and E, if performed in the same
lens.
[0055] FIGS. 30A-D are diagrams of the cross-section of a lens
illustrating a capsulorhexis shot pattern of the present
invention.
[0056] FIGS. 31A-D are diagrams illustrating youthful vs. old age
gradient index behavior.
[0057] FIGS. 32-40 are cross-section drawings of lenses
illustrating laser shot patterns.
[0058] FIGS. 41-42 are cross-section drawings of lenses
illustrating vertical laser shot patterns.
[0059] FIG. 43 is schematic block diagram of a laser delivery range
finder system.
[0060] FIG. 44 is an illustration of a return signal for the system
of FIG. 43.
[0061] FIG. 45 is a drawing illustrating laser pulses and
bursts.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS AND THE PREFERRED
EMBODIMENTS
[0062] In general, the present invention provides a system and
method for increasing the amplitude of accommodation and/or
changing the refractive power and/or enabling the removal of the
clear or cataractous lens material of a natural crystalline lens.
Thus, as generally shown in FIG. 2 there is provided a system for
delivering a laser beam shot pattern to the lens of an eye
comprising: a patient support 201; a laser 202; optics for
delivering the laser beam 203; a control system for delivering the
laser beam to the lens in a particular pattern 204, which control
system 204 is associated with and/or interfaces with the other
components of the system as represented by lines 205; a means for
determining the position of lens with respect to the laser 206,
which means 206 receives an image 211 of the lens of the eye; and a
laser patient interface 207.
[0063] The patient support 201 positions the patent's body 208 and
head 209 to interface with the optics for delivering the laser beam
203.
[0064] In general, the laser 202 should provide a beam 210 that is
of a wavelength that transmits through the cornea, aqueous and
lens. The beam should be of a short pulse width, together with the
energy and beam size, to produce photodisruption. Thus, as used
herein, the term laser shot or shot refers to a laser beam pulse
delivered to a location that results in photodisruption. As used
herein, the term photodisruption essentially refers to the
conversion of matter to a gas by the laser. In particular,
wavelengths of about 300 nm to 2500 nm may be employed. Pulse
widths from about 1 femtosecond to 100 picoseconds may be employed.
Energies from about a 1 nanojoule to 1 millijoule may be employed.
The pulse rate (also referred to as pulse repetition frequency
(PRF) and pulses per second measured in Hertz) may be from about 1
KHz to several GHz. Generally, lower pulse rates correspond to
higher pulse energy in commercial laser devices. A wide variety of
laser types may be used to cause photodisruption of ocular tissues,
dependent upon pulse width and energy density. Thus, examples of
such lasers would include: the Delmar Photonics Inc. Trestles-20,
which is a Titanium Sapphire (Ti:Sapphire) oscillator having a
wavelength range of 780 to 840 nm, less than a 20 femtosecond pulse
width, about 100 MHz PRF, with 2.5 nanojoules; the Clark CPA-2161,
which is an amplified Ti:Sapphire having a wavelength of 775 nm,
less than a 150 femtosecond pulse width, about 3 KHz PRF, with 850
microjoules; the IMRA FCPA (fiber chirped pulse amplification)
.mu.jewel D series D-400-HR, which is a Yb:fiber
oscillator/amplifier having a wavelength of 1045 nm, less than a 1
picosecond pulse width, about 5 MHz PRF, with 100 nanojoules; the
Lumera Staccato, which is a Nd:YVO4 having a wavelength of 1064 nm,
about 10 picosecond pulse width, about 100 KHz PRF, with 100
microjoules; and, the Lumera Rapid, which is a ND:YVO4 having a
wavelength of 1064 nm, about 10 picosecond pulse width, and can
include one or more amplifiers to achieve approximately 2.5 to 10
watts average power at a PRF of between 25 kHz to 650 kHz and also
includes a multi-pulsing capability that can gate two separate 50
MHz pulse trains. and, the IMRA FCPA (fiber chirped pulse
amplification) .mu.jewel D series D-400-NC, which is a Yb:fiber
oscillator/amplifier having a wavelength of 1045 nm, less than a
100 picosecond pulse width, about 200 KHz PRF, with 4 microjoules.
Thus, these and other similar lasers may be used a therapeutic
lasers.
[0065] In general, the optics for delivering the laser beam 203 to
the natural lens of the eye should be capable of providing a series
of shots to the natural lens in a precise and predetermined pattern
in the x, y and z dimension. The optics should also provide a
predetermined beam spot size to cause photodisruption with the
laser energy reaching the natural lens. Thus, the optics may
include, without limitation: an x y scanner; a z focusing device;
and, focusing optics. The focusing optics may be conventional
focusing optics, and/or flat field optics and/or telecentric
optics, each having corresponding computer controlled focusing,
such that calibration in x, y, z dimensions is achieved. For
example, an x y scanner may be a pair of closed loop galvanometers
with position detector feedback. Examples of such x y scanners
would be the Cambridge Technology Inc. Model 6450, the SCANLAB
hurrySCAN and the AGRES Rhino Scanner. Examples of such z focusing
devices would be the Phsyik International Peizo focus unit Model
ESee Z focus control and the SCANLAB varrioSCAN.
[0066] In general, the control system for delivering the laser beam
204 may be any computer, controller, and/or software hardware
combination that is capable of selecting and controlling x y z
scanning parameters and laser firing. These components may
typically be associated at least in part with circuit boards that
interface to the x y scanner, the z focusing device and/or the
laser. The control system may also, but does not necessarily, have
the further capabilities of controlling the other components of the
system as well as maintaining data, obtaining data and performing
calculations. Thus, the control system may contain the programs
that direct the laser through one or more laser shot patterns.
[0067] In general, the means for determining the position of the
lens with respect to the laser 206 should be capable of determining
the relative distance with respect to the laser and portions of the
lens, which distance is maintained constant by the patient
interface 207. Thus, this component will provide the ability to
determine the position of the lens with respect to the scanning
coordinates in all three dimensions. This may be accomplished by
several methods and apparatus. For example, x y centration of the
lens may be accomplished by observing the lens through a
co-boresighed camera system and display or by using direct view
optics and then manually positioning the patients' eye to a known
center. The z position may then be determined by a range
measurement device utilizing optical triangulation or laser and ccd
system, such as the Micro-Epsilon opto NCDT 1401 laser sensor
and/or the Aculux Laser Ranger LR2-22. The use of a 3-dimensional
viewing and measurement apparatus may also be used to determine the
x, y and z positions of the lens. For example, the Hawk 3 axis
non-contact measurement system from Vision Engineering could be
used to make these determinations. Yet a further example of an
apparatus that can be used to determine the position of the lens is
a 3-dimension measurement apparatus. This apparatus would comprise
a camera, which can view a reference and the natural lens, and
would also include a light source to illuminate the natural lens.
Such light source could be a structured light source, such as for
example a slit illumination designed to generate 3-dimensional
information based upon geometry.
[0068] A further component of the system is the laser patient
interface 207. This interface should provide that the x, y, z
position between the natural lens and the laser remains fixed
during the procedure, which includes both the measurement steps of
determining the x y z position and the delivery step of delivering
the laser to the lens in a shot pattern. The interface device may
contain an optically transparent applanator. One example of this
interface is a suction ring applanator that is fixed against the
outer surface of the eye and is then positioned against the laser
optical housing, thus fixing the distance between the laser, the
eye and the natural lens. Reference marks for the 3-dimensional
viewing and measuring apparatus may also be placed on this
applanator. Moreover, the interface between the lower surface of
the applanator and the cornea may be observable and such
observation may function as a reference. A further example of a
laser patient interface is a device having a lower ring, which has
suction capability for affixing the interface to the eye. The
interface further has a flat bottom, which presses against the eye
flattening the eye's shape. This flat bottom is constructed of
material that transmits the laser beam and also preferably,
although not necessarily, transmits optical images of the eye
within the visible light spectrum. The upper ring has a structure
for engaging with the housing for the laser optics and/or some
structure that is of known distance from the laser along the path
of the laser beam and fixed with respect to the laser. Further
examples of such devices are generally disclosed in U.S. D462,442,
U.S. D462,443, and U.S. D459,807S, the disclosures of which are
hereby incorporated by reference. As an alternative to an
applanator, the interface may be a corneal shaped transparent
element whereby the cornea is put into direct contact with the
interface or contains an interface fluid between.
[0069] An illustrative combination utilizing by way of example
specific optics for delivering the laser beam 203 and means for
determining the position of the lens 206, is shown in part, in FIG.
2A. FIG. 2A is a more detailed schematic diagram of a configuration
of the system of FIG. 2. Thus, the example of FIG. 2A provides a
laser 202, laser optics for delivering the laser beam 203, which
optics comprise a beam expander telescope 220, a z focus mechanism
221, a beam combiner 222, an x y scanner 223, and focusing optics
224. There is further provided in FIG. 2A relay optics 230, camera
optics 231, which may also include a zoom, and a ccd camera 232,
which components form a part of a three-dimensional viewing and
measuring apparatus. Moreover, these components 231 and 232 in
combination with a light source 233, and the scanner 223 are the
means for determining the position of the lens 206.
[0070] This combination of FIG. 2A utilizes the x y scanner 223 to
create stereoscopic images of the lens with only a single ccd
camera 232. Optical images 211 of the eye 213 and in particular
optical images of the natural lens 103 of the eye 213 are conveyed
along a path 211. This path 211 follows the same path as the laser
beam 210 from the natural lens 103 through the laser patient
interface 207, the focusing optics 224, the x y scanner 223 and the
beam combiner 222. This combination of FIG. 2A further comprises: a
laser patient interface 207, and a light source 233, which could be
for example uniform illumination, or a slit illumination or other
structured light source designed to enhance 3-dimensional accuracy.
The light source, in part, provides illumination of the natural
lens of the patient's eye for the purposes of determining the
3-dimensional position of the lens. Thus, either stereoscopic
images and/or the information from the camera are sent to a
controller and/or computer (not shown in FIG. 2A) for further
processing and use in determining 3-dimensional positions of the
lens. Stereo images may be generated by commanding the scanner to
go to and pause at a nominal left position and then electronically
trigger the camera and controller to capture and store the left
image; then command the scanner/camera/controller similarly to
capture and store a right image. This sequence may be repeated in a
periodic manner. These left and right images can be processed by
the controller to generate the position and shape of the lens. The
left and right images can be displayed using a stereo video
monitor. Camera images or stereo images may also be used to measure
suture geometry and orientation in the patients lens, which can be
used to determine the parameters of suture based shot patterns and
to align suture based shot patterns to the patients lens suture
geometry and orientation. The combination illustrated in FIG. 2A
provides 3-dimensional information that can be used to determine
the shape of the lens, including the anterior and posterior
surfaces thereof. This information can also be used to visualize
the structure of the lens, including sutures. Moreover, the
information about the lens obtained from the combination of FIG. 2A
can further be used in determining the laser shot pattern and laser
shot placement with respect to lens shape and/or structure.
[0071] FIGS. 2 and 2A-2E are block schematic diagrams and thus the
relative positions and spacing of the components illustrated
therein are by way of example. Accordingly, the relative placements
of these components with respect to one another may be varied and
all or some of their functions and components may be combined.
[0072] FIGS. 2B-2E are further more detailed embodiments of a
portion of the system of FIG. 2. To the extent that like numbers
are used in these Figures and in FIGS. 2 and 2A they have the same
meaning. Thus, FIGS. 2B-2E provide further examples and
combinations of optics for delivering the laser beam 203 and means
for determining the position of the lens 206.
[0073] FIG. 2B is a block schematic diagram of a portion of a
system having a means for determining the position of the lens 206,
which employs a scanned laser illumination source. Thus, there is
provided a laser illumination source 235, a beam expander and
focusing optics 236, an illumination laser path 237 and a camera
238 for viewing the lens 103 as illuminated by the laser
illumination source. Component 235 in combination with the scanner
223 and camera 238 are the means for detecting the position of the
lens 206.
[0074] The laser illumination source 235 can be any visible or near
infrared laser diode, preferably with a short coherence length for
reduced speckle. For example, the laser can be a Schafter+Kirchhoff
Laser (90CM-M60-780-5-Y03-C-6) or can also be obtained from
StockerYale and may also come with focusing optics. In operation, x
y scanner 223 scans the beam from the illumination laser 235 into
the focusing optics 224, through the patient interface 207 and onto
the lens 103. Thus, the beam from the illumination laser 235
follows the illumination laser path 237. The beam expander focusing
optics 236 combined with focusing optics 224 provide a high F
number, slow focusing beam with long depth of field. The depth of
field is approximately equal to the path length of the laser
illumination beam through the lens 103. Thus, producing small and
approximately equal sized spots at the anterior and posterior of
lens 103. The illumination laser beam is scanned, predominately in
one axis, in a line at a rate sufficiently fast compared to the
camera 238 exposure time such that the scanned illumination laser
beam acts like a slit illumination source during the exposure time.
On subsequent exposures or frames of the camera 238, the
illumination laser beam is scanned to different positions, thus,
illuminating the entire lens over time. This can occur as a series
of y scanned lines with different x positions exposures or the
lines can be radially scanned with each exposure at a different
angle. From the analysis of the data from all of these images thus
obtained, the three-D position and shape of the anterior and
posterior surfaces and the spatial distribution of the scattering
amplitude of the lens material between those surfaces can be
determined. This information may be processed by the control system
and used for screening patients and implementing laser shot
patterns.
[0075] FIG. 2C is a block schematic diagram of a portion of a
system having a means for detecting the position of the lens 206,
which employs dual cameras. Thus, there is provided a left camera
241 and a right camera 242. Components 241, 242 and 233 are the
means for detecting the position of the lens 206.
[0076] The system of FIG. 2C utilizes two camera stereo viewing
technology for providing patient care capability and for obtaining
images and data for determining lens position and/or shape. From
the analysis of the data from the images thus obtained, the three-D
position and shape of the anterior and posterior surfaces and the
spatial distribution of the scattering amplitude of the lens
material between those surfaces can be determined. This information
may be processed by the control system and used for screening
patients and implementing laser shot patterns.
[0077] FIG. 2D is a block schematic diagram of a portion of a
system having a means for detecting the position of the lens 206,
which employs structured illumination. Thus, there is provided a
structured light source 245 and a camera 246, having a lens 247,
for viewing the structured light source. Components 245 and 246 in
combination are a means for detecting the position of the lens
206.
[0078] The system of FIG. 2D utilizes a structured light source and
a camera to provide patient care capability and for obtaining
images and data for determining lens position and/or shape. From
the analysis of the data from the images thus obtained, the three-D
position and shape of the anterior and posterior surfaces and the
spatial distribution of the scattering amplitude of the lens
material between those surfaces can be determined. This information
may be processed by the control system and used for screening
patients and implementing laser shot patterns.
[0079] FIG. 2E is a block schematic diagram of a portion of a
system having a means for detecting the position of the lens 206,
which employs structured illumination and dual cameras. Thus, there
is provided a structured light source 245, a camera 246 for viewing
the structured light source, a lens 247 for camera 246, a left
camera 241 and a right camera 242. Components 245 and 246, in
combination are the means for detecting the position of the lens
206. Components 241 and 242, in combination are a means for
providing patient care, including monitoring capability. This
combination 241, 242 may also provide information and/or data to
determine the position of the lens.
[0080] The combination of components in the system illustrated in
FIG. 2E provides the ability to optimize the accuracy of
determining the position of the lens, while also providing the
ability to separately and/or independently optimize patient care.
Patient care includes, but is not limited to, visualization of the
eye and its surrounding area, procedures such as attaching a
suction ring, applying ophthalmic drops, utilizing instruments, and
positioning the patient for surgery. In one embodiment the
structured light source 245 may be a slit illumination having
focusing and structured light projection optics, such as a
Schafter+Kirchhoff Laser Macro Line Generator Model 13LTM+90CM,
(Type 13LTM-250S-41+90CM-M60-780-5-Y03-C-6) or a StockerYale Model
SNF-501L-660-20-5. In this embodiment the structured illumination
source 245 also includes scanning means. Another embodiment of the
structured light source 245, may be a stationary grid pattern
projected on the lens. From the analysis of the data from the
images thus obtained, the three-D position and shape of the
anterior and posterior surfaces and the spatial distribution of the
scattering amplitude of the lens material between those surfaces
can be determined. This information may be processed by the control
system and used for screening patients and implementing laser shot
patterns.
[0081] When using a scanned slit illumination the operation
includes positioning the slit on one side of the lens, taking an
image then moving the slit approximately one slit width, then
taking another image, and then repeating this sequence until the
entire lens is observed. For example, a 100 .mu.m slit width can
scan a nominal 9 mm dilated pupil diameter in 90 images, which
takes approximately 3 seconds using a 30 Hz frame rate camera. To
obtain images of the anterior and posterior surface in a single
image without overlap, the slit should be at an angle to the AP
axis, i.e., it should not be parallel to that axis. The nominal
slit angle can be approximately 15 to 30 degrees from the AP axis.
Any visible or near IR wavelength source within the sensitivity of
the camera may be used. Low coherence length sources are preferable
to reduce speckle noise.
[0082] Another embodiment for the structured light illumination
sub-system shown in FIG. 2E is to arrange the structured light
illumination source 245, the structured light camera 246 and the
lens for the structured light camera 247 in the so-called
Scheimpflug configuration which is well-known. In Summary, the
Scheimpflug condition states that given an object, a lens and an
image, that the object plane is imaged sharply in the image plane
if the object plane, the lens plane and the image plane intersect
in the same line. The structured light source 245 projects a line
and or a plurality of lines onto the eye lens 103 at an angle or
plurality of angles. The light scattered at the eye lens 103 forms
the object to be imaged by the lens 247 and focused onto the camera
system 246. Since the slit illuminated image in the eye lens 103
may be at a large angle with respect to the camera lens 247 and
camera 246, this presents a large depth of field to the camera and
the entire slit image may not be in sharp focus at the camera. By
tilting the camera lens and the camera at an angle or plurality of
angles such that Scheimpflug's condition is met, the image along
the illuminated plane can be in sharp focus. Alternately, the
camera and/or lens may be tilted such that the angle between the
slit illuminated image plane and the camera focal plane is reduced,
improving the depth-of-focus sharpness, however may not meet the
Scheimpflug condition. Such configurations can improve sharpness
further by reducing the aperture of the optical path, thereby
increasing the F# of the system. These angles will depend on the
angle the slit beam makes with the eye. This will increase the
depth of field at the object, the scattered light from the slit
illuminator, and allow it to imaged through the lens onto the
camera image plane and remain in focus for the entire depth of the
object.
[0083] There is further provided the use of a structured light
illuminating and receiving system, such as for example slit
illumination, which in addition to measuring the position and shape
of anterior and posterior lens surfaces in three dimensions, can be
used as a screening tool for determining a candidate patient's
suitability for laser lens surgery. Thus, light from a structured
light system is directed toward the subject lens. The amplitude of
the received scattered light distributed throughout the lens is
then evaluated to detect scattering regions that are above
threshold, which is a level of scattering that would interfere with
the laser surgery. Thus, the detection of lens scattering
malformations that could interfere with, or reduce the efficacy of
a procedure can be detected and evaluated. Such scattering
malformations of the lens would include, without limitation,
cataractous, pre-cataractous and non-cataractous tissue. Such
scattering malformations, may be located throughout the lens, or
may be restricted to specific regions of the lens. For example the
systems of FIGS. 2A-2E in cooperation with a controller and/or
processor may function as such a structured light illuminating and
receiving system.
[0084] The structured light illuminating and receiving system may
be contained within the surgical laser system or it may be a
separate unit for evaluating the suitability of a candidate patient
for laser lens surgery. Commercially available examples of such
structured light illuminating and receiving systems are the Ziemer
Ophthalmic Systems GALILEI Dual Scheimpflug Analyzer and the
Oculus, Inc., PENTACAM. It is believed that these systems cannot be
used to determine the position of the lens with respect to the
treatment laser. However, lens shape data from these systems may be
obtained and then used in conjunction with position data provided
by systems such as the systems of FIGS. 2A-2E.
[0085] By suitability, it is meant that laser lens surgery may be
indicated or contra-indicated for a particular patient's lens. In
addition, it is also meant that certain shot patterns, and/or
combinations and placement of shot patterns may be indicated or
contra-indicated, depending upon the location of the malformations,
the shot patterns, the placement of the shot patterns and the
intended effect of the shot pattern. Malformations that would
substantially interfere with the desired effect of a laser shot
pattern would make that laser shot pattern contra-indicated. Thus,
for example, for a patient with a posterior scattering
malformation, laser surgery in the anterior of that particular lens
would be indicated, for example a pattern such as that shown in
FIG. 20, while laser surgery in the posterior would be
contra-indicated, such as the patterns shown in FIG. 21.
[0086] In order to assure the laser treatment of the lens does not
impinge on the anterior or posterior capsule, nor impinges within
some distance of the capsule, to assure that living cells are not
disturbed by any photodisruption shots, a beam delivery guidance
system is required. A limitation of the ocular surgical situation
is that the crystalline lens has an unknown, gradient index of
refraction, that has been shown to be highly age dependent. In
order to accurately measure the posterior surface in vivo, one must
observe through the anterior surface and the gradient index bulk
fibrous material to see the posterior surface. Previous techniques
have examined separate measurement instruments to measure lens
shape which all suffer from this unknown gradient index phenomena.
Thus, there is provided by this specification a new approach to
measure the shapes of the anterior and posterior of the lens. This
approach further provides a laser treatment, which has minimized
systematic errors of separate measurement devices and also
minimized the error due to the unknown gradient index of refraction
of the lens.
[0087] An illustrative system utilizing by way of example specific
optics for delivering the laser beam and a means for determining
the position of the lens, and in particular the anterior and
posterior capsule of the lens, is shown in FIG. 43. Thus, the
example of FIG. 43 provides a laser 4302, laser optics 4303, which
optics comprise a beam expander telescope 4320, a polarizing beam
splitter 4322, a z focus module or mechanism 4321, a polarizer 1/4
wave plate 4323, an x y scanner 4324, and imaging or focusing
optics 4325. Thus, as set forth in FIG. 43, the laser beam path
4310, in part, passes from beam expander telescope 4320 to
polarizing beam splitter 4322 to z focus module or mechanism 4321
to polarizer 1/4 wave plate 4323, to x y scanner 4324, and then to
imaging or focusing optics 4325. There is further provided range
detector components 4306, comprising an optical detector 4330,
which receives return laser beam along path 4311 and produces
analog input signal 4312, analog electronics 4331, which receives
analog input signal 4312 and produces analog output signal 4313,
and digital electronics and control 4332, which receives analog
output signal 4313 and produces control signal 4314, which control
signal is received by z focus module or mechanism 4321. There is
also provided a laser beam path 4311 for the range detector. An
attenuator 4340 is provided and can be moved between two positions
4340a, in which the laser is attenuated and 4340b in which the
laser is not attenuated. A laser patient interface 4307 is
provided.
[0088] FIG. 43 is a block schematic diagram and thus the relative
positions and spacing of the components illustrated therein are by
way of example. Accordingly, the relative placements of these
components with respect to one another may be varied, and all or
some of their functions and components may be combined.
[0089] This approach utilizes an attenuated version of the
treatment laser to be used as a transmitter/illuminator. There is
provided an optical receiver which is polarization duplexed 4322
together into a single transceiver path 4311/4310, which utilizes
the same optical path to the eye as the treatment laser. In this
way, the transceiver path looks through the Z focus mechanism 4321
and the imaging optic 4325 that provide a small spot size for
photodissruption, but will not photodisrupt because of the
attenuator. The transceiver beam is therefore scannable throughout
the full lens volume.
[0090] With the attenuator in place 4340a, an AC periodic dither is
applied to Z amplitude vs. time. The focus point, keeping the x and
y coordinates the same, is then moved from above the anterior
surface of the lens, through the lens to the posterior surface and
then slightly beyond. In this way for any x y coordinate there will
be a noticeable change in the amplitude of the laser beam that is
returned, which change will be detected by the optical detector
4330. Thus, there will be provided an analog input signal 4312, an
analog output signal 4313 and a control signal 4314. This change
will correspond to the lens outer surfaces. An example of this
change is provided in FIG. 44, in which 4401 represents the
returned signal when the focus is above the anterior surface of the
lens, 4402 represents the signal as the focus moves through the
anterior lens capsule, 4403 represents the signal as the focus is
in the lens, 4404 represents the signal as the focus moves through
the posterior lens capsule, and 4405 represents the signal as the
focus is beyond (posterior to) the lens. Further, as described in
greater detail in the following paragraphs, a servo can utilized to
lock the z direction focus for any x y coordinate of the lens at
predetermined offset to prevent the treatment laser from disrupting
material at or near the lens capsule.
[0091] The dither could be a ramp or saw tooth or a simple sign
wave of Z amplitude vs. time dither, approximately 10's to 100's of
um in amplitude, to the Z focus assembly and then offset the Z
focus module down from above the cornea to the anterior capsule in
Z (typically mm's) until the transceiver 4330 receives an
increasingly strong periodic signal return 4402 from the anterior
capsule. The change in index between the aqueous humor and the lens
capsule as well as finite scattering from the capsule or fibrous
tissue, compared to the uniform aqueous provides the optical return
signal which is sensed by the optical receiver. The periodic signal
detected in the receiver will increase as the dithered and focused
transceiver is Z offset downward and approaches the edge of the
capsule. As the Z focus is pushed into the fibrous mass, the
dithered signal will reach a maximum and then begin to decrease.
The direction of the Z focus offset and leading edge of the signal
"S-Curve" are used to form a discriminator function, which can
provide a directionally dependent error signal, to drive the
Z-Focus offset, to maximize the dithered signal return at the edge
of the capsule, through closed loop servo techniques. Once the Z
Offset loop, which is essentially a range servo, is closed, then
the transceiver focus will track, in Z-offset, any location on the
anterior capsule. After the Z-offset loop is closed and tracking, X
and Y scanning can now be accomplished and the recording of the
tracked Z-offset position for every x,y location will essentially
create a 3D map of the anterior surface. An XY scan pattern, slow
enough to not break lock on the Z-Offset tracker could scan in a
spiral or other pattern from the anterior pole outward to
approximately just less than the pupil diameter to create a 3 D map
of reasonably uniform sampling over the pupil limited lens
diameter. Once this anterior data is captured, the XY could return
to 0,0 and then the loop opened and the Z offset commanded further
down toward the posterior pole and again a signal increase will
occur at the interface between the posterior capsule and the
vitreous humor, albeit a sign change may occur. Likewise the
Z-offest loop can now lock onto and track the posterior capsule and
a similar xy scan be used to map out the posterior lens shape.
[0092] The significant advantages of this technique is that the
unknown gradient index of the lens does not contribute error to
this measurement, as we are not really recording the absolute XYZ
shape of the lens surfaces, but the Z command necessary at each XY
to find the posterior capsule, at whatever and arbitrary unknown
gradient exists, at the same wavelength of the treatment beam. This
means the shape of the lens is being defined in the exact same
coordinates as the treatment laser with no systematic error, since
it is the same, but the attenuated laser is being used as the
transmitter, with the same Z-focus assembly and the same imaging
optics.
[0093] FIGS. 4A-E illustrate the three branched or Y suture
geometry in the context of the structures found in the fetal
nucleus 415 of the lens. Thus, these figures provide a more
detailed view of the structures illustrated as layer 130, which
encompasses layer 122 of FIG. 1A. In FIGS. 4A-E the view of the
inner layer of the lens is rotated stepwise from the posterior side
FIG. 4A to the anterior side FIG. 4E of the lens. Thus, this layer
of the lens has three posterior suture lines 401, 402, and 403.
This layer also has three anterior suture lines 412, 413 and 414.
The anterior suture lines are longer than the posterior suture
lines and these lines are staggered when viewed along the anterior
to posterior (AP) axis 411. The lens fibers, which form the layers
of the nucleus, are shown by lines 404, it being understood that
these are only illustrative lines and that in the actual natural
layer of the lens there would be many times more fibers present. To
aid in illustrating the structure and geometry of this layer of the
nucleus representative fibers 405, 406, 407, 408, 409 and 410 have
been exaggerated and individually shaded in FIGS. 4A-E. Thus, as
the view of the lens nucleus is rotated from posterior to anterior
the positions of these representative fibers, their relationship to
each other, and their relationship to the suture lines are
illustrated.
[0094] The length of the suture lines for the anterior side are
approximately 75% of the equatorial radius of the layer or shell in
which they are found. The length of the suture lines for the
posterior side are approximately 85% of the length of the
corresponding anterior sutures, i.e, 64% of the equatorial radius
of that shell.
[0095] The term--essentially follows--as used herein would describe
the relationship of the shapes of the outer surface of the lens and
the fetal nucleus 415. The fetal nucleus is a biconvex shape. The
anterior and posterior sides of the lens have different curvatures,
with the anterior being flatter. These curvatures generally follow
the curvature of the cortex and the outer layer and general shape
of the lens. Thus, the lens can be viewed as a stratified structure
consisting of long crescent fiber cells arranged end-to-end to form
essentially concentric or nested shells.
[0096] As provided in greater detail in the following paragraphs
and by way of the following examples, the present invention
utilizes this and the further addressed geometry, structure and
positioning of the lens layers, fibers and suture lines to provide
laser shot patterns for increasing the accommodative amplitude of
the lens. Although not being bound by this theory, it is presently
believed that it is the structure, positioning and geometry of the
lens and lens fibers, in contrast to the material properties of the
lens and lens fibers, that gives rise to loss of accommodative
amplitude. Thus, these patterns are designed to alter and affect
that structure, positioning and/or geometry to increase
accommodative amplitude.
[0097] FIGS. 5A-C illustrate the six branched or star suture
geometry in the context of the structure found in the infantile
layer of the nucleus 515 of the lens. Thus, these figures provide a
more detailed view of the structures illustrated as layer 124 of
FIG. 1A. In FIGS. 5A-C the view of the layer of the lens is rotated
from the posterior side FIG. 5A to a side view FIG. 5B to the
anterior side FIG. 5C. Thus, this layer of the nucleus has six
posterior suture lines 501, 502, 503, 504, 505, and 506. This layer
of the nucleus also has six anterior suture lines 509, 510, 511,
512, 513, and 514. The anterior suture lines are longer than the
posterior suture lines and these lines are staggered when viewed
along the AP axis 508. The lens fibers, which form the layers of
the nucleus, are shown by lines 507, it being understood that these
are only illustrative lines and that in the actual natural layer of
the lens there would be many times more fibers present.
[0098] The shape of the outer surface of the lens essentially
follows the infantile nucleus 515, which is a biconvex shape. Thus,
the anterior and posterior sides of this layer of the lens have
different curvatures, with the anterior being flatter. These
curvatures generally follow the curvature of the cortex and the
outer layer and general shape of the lens. These curvatures also
generally follow the curvature of the fetal nucleus 415. Thus, the
lens can be viewed as a stratified structure consisting of long
crescent fiber cells arranged end-to-end to form essentially
concentric or nested shells, with the infantile nucleus 515 having
the fetal nucleus 415 nested within it. As development continues
through adolescence, additional fiber layers grow containing
between 6 and 9 sutures.
[0099] FIGS. 6A-C illustrate the nine branched or star suture
geometry in the context of the structure found in the adolescent
layer of the nucleus 611 of the lens. Thus, these figures provide a
more detailed view of the structures illustrated as layer 126 of
FIG. 1A. In FIGS. 6A-C the view of the layer of the lens is rotated
from the posterior side FIG. 6A to a side view FIG. 6B to the
anterior side FIG. 6C. Thus, this layer of the nucleus has nine
posterior suture lines 601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607, 608 and
609. This layer of the nucleus also has nine anterior suture lines
612, 613, 614, 615, 616, 617, 618, 619 and 620. The anterior suture
lines are longer than the posterior suture lines and these lines
are staggered when viewed along the AP axis 610. The lens fibers,
which form the layers of the nucleus, are shown by lines 621; it
being understood that these are only illustrative lines, and that
in the actual natural layer of the lens there would be many times
more fibers present.
[0100] The outer surface of the cornea follows the adolescent
nucleus 611, which is a biconvex shape. Thus, the anterior and
posterior sides of this layer have different curvatures, with the
anterior being flatter. These curvatures generally follow the
curvature of the cortex and the outer layer and general shape of
the lens. These curvatures also generally follow the curvature of
the fetal nucleus 415 and the infantile nucleus 515, which are
nested within the adolescent nucleus 611. Thus, the lens can be
viewed as a stratified structure consisting of long crescent fiber
cells arranged end-to-end to form essentially concentric or nested
shells. As development continues through adulthood, additional
fiber layers grow containing between 9 and 12 sutures.
[0101] FIGS. 7A-C illustrates the twelve branched or star suture
geometry in the context of the structure found in the adult layer
of the nucleus 713 of the lens. Thus, these figures provide a more
detailed view of the adult layer 128 depicted in FIG. 1A. In FIGS.
7A-C the view of the layer of the lens is rotated from the
posterior side FIG. 7A to a side view FIG. 7B to the anterior side
FIG. 7C. Thus, the adult layer of the nucleus has twelve posterior
suture lines 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708, 709, 710, 711,
and 712. This layer of the nucleus also has twelve anterior suture
lines 714-725. The anterior suture lines are longer than the
posterior suture lines and these lines are staggered when viewed
along the AP axis 726. The lens fibers, which form the layers of
the nucleus, are shown by lines 728; it being understood that these
are only illustrative lines, and that in the actual natural layer
of the lens there would be many times more fibers present.
[0102] The adult nucleus 713 is a biconvex shape that follows the
outer surface of the lens. Thus, the anterior and posterior sides
of this layer have different curvatures, with the anterior being
flatter. These curvatures follow the curvature of the cortex and
the outer layer and shape of the lens. These curvatures also
generally follow the curvature of the adolescent nucleus 611, the
infantile nucleus 515 and the fetal nucleus 415 and the embryonic
nucleus, which are essentially concentric to and nested within the
adult nucleus 611. Thus, the lens can be viewed as a stratified
structure consisting of long crescent fiber cells arranged
end-to-end to form essentially concentric or nested shells.
[0103] A subsequent adult layer having 15 sutures may also be
present in some individuals after age 40. This subsequent adult
layer would be similar to the later adult layer 713 in general
structure, with the recognition that the subsequent adult layer
would have a geometry having more sutures and would encompass the
later adult layer 713; and as such, the subsequent adult layer
would be the outermost layer of the nucleus and would thus be the
layer further from the center of the nucleus and the layer that is
youngest in age.
[0104] In general, the present invention provides for the delivery
of the laser beam in patterns that utilize, or are based at least
in part on, the lens suture geometry and/or the curvature of the
lens and/or the various layers within the nucleus; and/or the
curvatures of the various layers within the nucleus; and/or the
suture geometry of the various layers within the nucleus. As part
of the present invention the concept of matching the curvature of
the anterior ablations to the specific curvature of the anterior
capsule, while having a different curvature for posterior
ablations, which in turn match the posterior curvature of the lens
is provided. Anterior and posterior curvatures can be based on
Kuszak aged lens models, Burd's numeric modeling, Burd et al.
Vision Research 42 (2002) 2235-2251, or on specific lens
measurements, such as those that can be obtained from the means for
determining the position of the lens with respect to the laser.
Thus, in general, these laser delivery patterns are based in whole
and/or in part on the mathematical modeling and actual observation
data regarding the shape of the lens, the shape of the layers of
the lens, the suture pattern, and the position of the sutures
and/or the geometry of the sutures.
[0105] Moreover, as set forth in greater detail, it is not
necessary that the natural suture lines of the lens or the natural
placement of the layers of the lens be exactly replicated in the
lens by the laser shot pattern. In fact, exact replication of these
natural structures by a laser shot pattern, while within the scope
of the invention, is not required, and preferably is not necessary
to achieve an increase in accommodative amplitude. Instead, the
present invention, in part, seeks to generally emulate the natural
lens geometry, structures and positioning and/or portions thereof,
as well as build upon, modify and reposition such naturally
occurring parameters through the use of the laser shot patterns
described herein.
[0106] Accordingly, laser beam delivery patterns that cut a series
of essentially concentric, i.e., nested, shells in the lens may be
employed. Preferably, the shells would essentially follow the
anterior and posterior curvature of the lens. Thus, creating in the
lens a series of cuts which resemble the nucleus layers of FIGS. 4,
5, 6 and 7. These cuts may follow the same geometry, i.e., shape
and distance from the center, of these layers or may follow only a
part of that geometry. One example of these shells is illustrated
in FIG. 8, which provides a lens 103, a first shell cut 801, a
first shell 802, a second shell cut 803, a second shell 804 and a
third shell cut 805. The adult nucleus 128 and cortex 113 are also
provided. Thus, the term shell refers to the lens material and the
term shell cut refers to the laser beam delivery pattern and
consequently the placement of the laser beam shots in the lens in
accordance with that pattern. More or less shell cuts, and thus
shells may be utilized. Moreover, the cuts may be such that they in
effect create a complete shell, i.e., the shell and shell cuts
completely encompass a volume of lens material. The cuts may also
be such that less than a complete shell is formed. Thus, the
creation of partial shells, by the use of partial shell cuts, may
be employed. Such partial cuts would for example be only a portion
of a shell e.g., the anterior quartile, the anterior half, the
posterior quartile, stacked annular rings, staggered annular rings,
and/or combinations thereof. Such partial shells and shell cuts may
be any portion of a three dimensional form, including ellipsoid,
spheroids and combinations thereof as those terms are used in their
broadest sense that in general follows the contours of the lens,
capsule, cortex, nucleus, and/or the layers of the lens including
the layers of the nucleus. Moreover, the use of complete and
partial shells and shell cuts may be used in a single lens. Thus,
by way of illustration of this latter point, the first and second
cuts 801 and 803 are annular cuts, while the third cut is a
complete cut.
[0107] A further use of partial shells is to have the shape of the
shells follow the geometry and/or placement of the suture lines.
Thus, partial pie shaped shells are created, by use of partial pie
shaped shell cuts. These cuts may be placed in between the suture
lines at the various layers of the lens. These partial shells may
follow the contour of the lens, i.e., have a curved shape, or they
may be flatter and have a more planar shape or be flat. A further
use of these pie shape shells and shell cuts would be to create
these cuts in a suture like manner, but not following the natural
suture placement in the lens. Thus, a suture like pattern of cuts
is made in the lens, following the general geometry of the natural
lens suture lines, but not their exact position in the lens. In
addition to pie shaped cuts other shaped cuts may be employed, such
as by way of illustration a series of ellipses, rectangular planes
or squares.
[0108] A further use of partial shells and/or planar partial shells
is to create a series of overlapping staggered partial shells by
using overlapping staggered partial shell cuts. In this way
essentially complete and uninterrupted layers of lens material are
disrupted creating planar like sections of the lens that can slide
one atop the other to thus increase accommodative amplitude. These
partial shells can be located directly atop each other, when viewed
along the AP axis, or they could be slightly staggered, completely
staggered, or any combination thereof.
[0109] In addition to the use of shells and partial shells, lines
can also be cut into the lens. These lines can follow the geometry
and/or geometry and position of the various natural suture lines.
Thus, a laser shot pattern is provided that places shots in the
geometry of one or more of the natural suture lines of one or more
of the various natural layers of the lens as shown in FIGS. 4, 5,
6, and 7, as well as in the 15 suture line layer, or it may follow
any of the other patterns in the continuum of layers in the lens.
These shot patterns can follow the general geometry of the natural
suture lines, i.e., a series of star shapes with the number of legs
in each star increasing as their placement moves away from the
center of the lens. These star-shaped shot patterns may follow the
precise geometry of the natural suture patterns of the layers of
the lens; or it can follow the exact geometry and placement of the
sutures, at the same distances as found in the natural lens or as
determined by modeling of the natural lens. In all of these
utilizations of star patterns one or more stars may be cut. The
length of the lines of the legs of the star may be the longer,
shorter or the same length as the natural suture lines. Moreover,
if the length is shorter than the natural length of the suture
lines, it may be placed toward the center of the star shape, i.e.
the point where the lines join each other, or towards the end of
the suture line, i.e., the point furthest on the suture line from
the joining point. Further, if the cut is towards the end of the
suture line it may extend beyond the suture line or may be
co-terminus therewith. Moreover, partial star shaped cuts can be
used, such as cuts having a "V" shape, or vertical or horizontal or
at an angle in between. These linear cuts, discussed above, are in
general referred to herein as laser created suture lines. Moreover,
laser created suture lines may be grouped together to in effect
form a shell or partial shell.
[0110] At present, it is theorized that the use of cuts near the
end of the suture lines will have the greatest effect on increasing
accommodative amplitude because it is believed that the ends of
fibers near the anterior and posterior poles (the point where the
AP axis intersects the lens) of the lens are more free to move then
the portions of fibers near the equator where there is a greater
number of gap junctions which bind fiber faces. At present, it is
postulated that it is approximately the last 15% of the fiber
length that is most free in the youthful lens with high
accommodative amplitude. It is further theorized that fiber layers
tend to become bound with age due to a combination of increase in
surface roughness and compaction due to growth of fiber layers
above. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 3 a shot pattern 301 is
provided to an anterior portion of a layer 302 of the lens. This
shot pattern 301 has a contour 303 that follows the contour of
approximately the last 15% of fiber length of fibers, represented
by lines 304. Thus, the shell cut resembles the shape of a flower.
Additionally, the number of petals in the flower-shaped shell
should correspond to the number of suture lines 305 at that growth
layer. Thus, it is theorized that this partial shell cut and/or
cuts will have the effect of unbinding the layers and returning the
lens to a more youthful increased amplitude of accommodation.
Similarly, using partial shells, annular partial shells or planar
partial shells in this general area, i.e., the general area at or
near the ends of the suture lines, may be employed for the same
reasons. This theory is put forward for the purposes of providing
further teaching and to advancing the art. This theory, however, is
not needed to practice the invention; and the invention and the
claims herein are not bound by or restricted by or to this
theory.
[0111] The use of laser created suture lines, including star-shaped
patterns may also be used in conjunction with shells, partial
shells and planar partial shells. With a particular laser shot
pattern, or series of shot patterns, employing elements of each of
these shapes. These patterns may be based upon the geometry shown
in FIGS. 4-7 as well as the 15 suture line geometry discussed
herein; they may follow that geometry exactly, in whole or in part;
and/or they may follow that geometry, in whole or in part, as well
as following the position of that geometry in the lens. Although a
maximum of 15 suture lines is known in the natural lens, more than
15 laser created suture lines may be employed. Moreover, as
provided herein, the lens has multiple layers with a continuum of
suture lines ranging from 3 to 15 and thus, this invention is not
limited to the suture patents of FIGS. 4-7, but instead covers any
number of suture lines from 3 to 15, including fractions
thereof.
[0112] The delivery of shot patterns for the removal of lens
material is further provided. A shot pattern that cuts the lens
into small cubes, which cubes can then be removed from the lens
capsule is provided. The cubes can range in size from a side having
a length of about 100 .mu.m to about 4 mm, with about 500 .mu.m to
2 mm being a preferred size. Additionally, this invention is not
limited to the formation of cubes and other volumetric shapes of
similar general size may be employed. In a further embodiment the
laser is also used to create a small opening, capsulorhexis, in the
lens anterior surface of the lens capsule for removal of the
sectioned cubes. Thus, this procedure may be used to treat
cataracts. This procedure may also be used to remove a lens having
opacification that has not progressed to the point of being
cataractous. This procedure may further be used to remove a natural
lens that is clear, but which has lost its ability to accommodate.
In all of the above scenarios, it being understood that upon
removal of the lens material the lens capsule would subsequently
house a suitable replacement, such as an IOL, accommodative IOL, or
synthetic lens refilling materials. Moreover, the size and the
shape of the capsulorhexis is variable and precisely controlled and
preferably is in 2 mm or less diameter for lens refilling
applications and about 5 mm for IOLs. A further implementation of
the procedure to provide a capsulorhexis is to provide only a
partially annular cut and thus leave a portion of the capsule
attached to the lens creating a hinged flap like structure. Thus,
this procedure may be used to treat cataracts.
[0113] It is further provided that volumetric removal of the lens
can be performed to correct refractive errors in the eye, such as
myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. Thus, the laser shot pattern is
such that a selected volume and/or shape of lens material is
removed by photodisruption from the lens. This removal has the
affect of alternating the lens shape and thus reducing and/or
correcting the refractive error. Volumetric removal of lens tissue
can be preformed in conjunction with the various shot patterns
provided for increasing accommodative amplitude. In this manner
both presbyopia and refractive error can be addressed by the same
shot pattern and/or series of shot patterns. The volumetric removal
of lens tissue finds further application in enhancing corrective
errors for patients that have had prior corneal laser visions
correction, such as LASIK, and/or who have corneas that are too
thin or weak to have laser corneal surgery.
[0114] In all of the laser shot patterns provided herein it is
preferred that the laser shot patterns generally follow the shape
of the lens and placement of individual shots with respect to
adjacent shots in the pattern are sufficiently close enough to each
other, such that when the pattern is complete a sufficiently
continuous layer and/or line and/or volume of lens material has
been removed; resulting in a structural change affecting
accommodative amplitude and/or refractive error and/or the removal
of lens material from the capsule. Shot spacing of lesser or
greater distances are contemplated herein and including overlap as
necessary to obtain the desired results. Shot spacing
considerations include gas bubble dissipation, volume removal
efficiency, sequencing efficiency, scanner performance, and
cleaving efficiency among others. For example, by way of
illustration, for a 5 .mu.m size spot with an energy sufficient to
cause photodisruption, a spacing of 20 .mu.m or greater results in
individual gas bubbles, which are not coalesced and dissipate more
quickly, than with close shot spaces with the same energy, which
result in gas bubble coalescence. As the shot spacing gets closer
together volume efficiency increases. As shot spacing gets closer
together bubble coalescence also increases. Further, there comes a
point where the shot spacing becomes so close that volume
efficiency dramatically decreases. For example, by way of
illustration, for a 450 femtosecond pulse width and 2 microjoules
energy and about a 5 .mu.m spot size with a 10 .mu.m separation
results in cleaving of transparent ocular tissue. As used herein,
the term cleaving means to substantially separate the tissue.
Moreover, the forgoing shot spacing considerations are interrelated
to a lesser or greater extent and one of skill in the art will know
how to evaluate these conditions based upon the teachings of the
present disclosure to accomplish the objectives herein. Finally, it
is contemplated that the placement of individual shots with respect
to adjacent shots in the pattern may in general be such that they
are as close as possible, typically limited by the size and time
frame of photodisruption physics, which would include among other
things gas bubble expansion of the previous shot. As used herein,
the time frame of photodisruptive physics referrers to the effects
that take place surrounding photodisruption, such as plasma
formation and expansion, shock waive propagation, and gas bubble
expansion and contraction. Thus, the timing of sequential pulses
such that they are timed faster than some of, elements of, or all
of those effects, can increase volumetric removal and/or cleaving
efficiency. Accordingly, we propose using pulse repetition
frequencies from 50 MHz to 5 GHz., which could be accomplished by a
laser with the following parameters: a mode lock laser of cavity
length from 3 meters to 3 cm. Such high PRF lasers can more easily
produce multiple pulses overlapping a location allowing for a lower
energy per pulse to achieve photodisruption.
[0115] The terms first, second, third, etc. as used herein are
relative terms and must be viewed in the context in which they are
used. They do not relate to timing, unless specifically referred to
as such. Thus, a first cut may be made after a second cut. In
general, it is preferred to fire laser shots in general from
posterior points in the laser pattern to anterior points, to avoid
and/or minimize the effect of the gas bubbles resulting from prior
laser shots. However, because of the varied laser shot patterns
that are provided herein, it is not a requirement that a strict
posterior to anterior shot sequence be followed. Moreover, in the
case of cataracts it may be advantageous to shoot from anterior to
posterior, because of the inability of the laser to penetrate
substantially beyond the cataract.
[0116] Without further elaboration, it is believed that one skilled
in the art can, using the preceding description, utilize the
present invention to its fullest extent. The following specific
embodiments are, therefore, provided as examples of the invention
and should be construed as being merely illustrating and not
limiting the scope of the invention or the disclosure herein in any
way whatsoever.
[0117] The following examples are based upon measured lens data and
lens data that is obtained by using Burd modeling, which model is
set forth in Burd et al., Numerical modeling of the accommodating
lens, Visions Research 42 (2002) 2235-2251. The Burd model provides
the following algorithm for anterior and/or posterior shape:
Z=aR.sup.5+bR.sup.4+cR.sup.3+dR.sup.2+f
[0118] The coefficients for this algorithm are set forth in Table
II.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE II a b c d f Anterior (11-year)
-0.00048433393427 0.00528772036011 -0.01383693844808
-0.07352941176471 2.18 Posterior (11-year) 0.00300182571400
-0.02576464843559 0.06916082660799 0.08928571428571 -2.13 Anterior
(29-year) -0.00153004454939 0.01191111565048 -0.02032562095557
-0.07692307692308 2.04 Posterior (29-year) 0.00375558685672
-0.03036516318799 0.06955483582257 0.09433962264151 -2.09 Anterior
(45-year) -0.00026524088453 0.00449862869630 -0.01657250977510
-0.06578947368421 2.42 Posterior (45-year) 0.00266482873720
-0.02666997217562 0.08467905191557 0.06172839506173 -2.42
[0119] Additionally, the variables Z and R are defined by the
drawing FIG. 9.
[0120] Thus, FIGS. 10, 11 and 12 provide cross sectional views of
the lens having an outer surface 1001, 1101, 1201 for three ages,
18, 29 and 45-year old respectively, based upon the Burd model and
show growth in size along with shape changes with age. The units
for the axes on these drawings, as well as for FIGS. 13 to 29, and
30A are in millimeters (mm).
[0121] EXAMPLE 1, provides for making nested, lens shaped shell
cuts. The laser shot patterns are illustrated in FIG. 13, which
provides the outer surface 1301 of a 45-year old lens based upon
the Burd model. There is further provided a series of nested or
essentially concentric shells and shell cuts, which essentially
follow the shape of the lens. Thus, there is provided a first shell
cut 1302, a second shell cut 1304, and a third shell cut 1306.
These shell cuts form a first shell 1303 and a second shell 1305.
Shells or partial shells are designed to increase flexibility in
the lens by decreasing the strength of nested fiber layers by
separating the bound layers, which it is theorized would reduce the
structural strength and increase deflection for a given load or
force. Thus, although not bound by this theory, it is theorized
that increasing the deflection of the lens for a given load or
zonule force will increase the flexibility of the lens structure
and, in turn, the amplitude of accommodation for that same zonule
force. Thus, there are provided a nested set of three layers, which
essentially follows both the anterior and posterior shapes.
Moreover, it being readily understood that for this and the other
examples that the shell cut is formed by and thus corresponds to a
laser shot pattern.
[0122] Thus, the shell cuts in this example are positioned
approximately such that the third shell cut 1306 is where 3 suture
branches begin forming additional branches, or approximately 6 mm
lens equatorial diameter, at the boundary of the fetal nucleus, or
the lens at birth; the second shell cut 1304 is where the 6 suture
branch layer begins forming additional branches at approximately
7.2 mm diameter, or the infantile nucleus or the lens at
approximately age 3; and the first shell cut is where the 9 suture
branch begins forming additional branches at approximately 9 mm
diameter, or at the adolescent nucleus at approximately age 13.
[0123] EXAMPLE 2, provides as an alternative to using a 45-year old
lens shape from the Burd model, the actual patient lens structural
or shape data may be utilized to customize surgery for each
patient. As an example, a 45-year old human cadaver lens, whose
shape was measured optically and mathematically fit via the same
fifth order function used in the Burd model, yields coefficients
unique to the measured lens. The outer cross-section shape of this
lens and a shot pattern similar to that of Example 1, but which was
tailored to the particular lens of this Example is illustrated in
FIG. 14. Thus, there is provided in this Figure an outer surface
1401 of the 45-year old lens. There is further provided a series of
nested or essentially concentric shells and shell cuts. Thus, there
is provided a first shell cut 1402, a second shell cut 1404, and a
third shell cut 1406. These shell cuts form a first shell 1403 and
a second shell 1405. It is further noted that any of the exemplary
cuts and shot patterns can be implemented via partial or full
shells and/or can be implemented via modeled (the Burd model being
just one example) or measured lens data.
[0124] EXAMPLE 3 provides a shot pattern for cutting partial shells
on the measured 45-year old lens, and having an excluded defined
central zone. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 15 there is provided an
outer surface 1501 of a 45-year old lens, a central zone 1512,
partial cuts 1502, 1504, 1506, 1507, 1509 and 1511. This also
provided partial shells 1503, 1505, 1508 and 1510. These partial
cuts as shown are part of the same generally annularly shaped.
Thus, cuts 1502 and 1507, cuts 1504 and 1509, and cuts 1506 and
1511 are the opposite sides respectively of three generally
annularly shaped partial.
[0125] EXAMPLE 4 provides a shot pattern for cutting partial shells
on the measured 45-year old lens, and having both an excluded
defined peripheral zone and central zone. Thus, as illustrated in
FIG. 16, there is provided an outer surface 1601 of a 45-year old
lens, a central zone 1622 and two peripheral zones 1620 and 1621.
There is further provided partial cuts 1602, 1604, 1605, 1606,
1607, 1611, 1613, 1615, 1617, and 1618 as well as, partial shells
1603, 1608, 1609, 1610, 1612, 1614, 1616 and 1619. As with example
3 and FIG. 15 these cuts are viewed in cross section and thus it is
understood that they are opposite sides of generally annular ring
shaped cuts, which essentially follow the shape of the lens and
which encompasses the central zone 1622. There are thus 5 partial
cuts depicted in FIG. 16.
[0126] EXAMPLE 5 provides a laser shot pattern for a finer detailed
cutting of the lens to approximate the structural boundaries at 3,
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 suture branches, or the use of six shells. Thus,
there is shown in FIG. 17 seven essentially concentric shot
patterns 1702-1708, which create seven corresponding shell cuts and
which also create six corresponding shells 1709-1714. The outer
surface 1701 of a 45-year old lens as measured is also provided in
FIG. 17. While this example provides for the creation of six
shells, it is understood that the lens contains thousands of fiber
layers and that it may be desirable to utilize much greater than
six shells and up to hundreds or even thousands, depending on the
resolution of the laser deliver system and laser beam
parameters.
[0127] Examples 6-12 relate to the volumetric removal of lens
material in a predetermined shape, based upon a precise shot
pattern. Thus, these examples illustrate how refractive change by
shaped volumetric reduction may be accomplished. This approach
recognizes a limitation of photodissruption laser beam delivery,
i.e., that the gas bubbles created are considerably larger than the
resultant material void found after all gas bubble dissipation
occurs. This can have the effect of causing material voids to be
spaced further apart than ideal for high efficiency volume removal.
Thus, it is recognized that the closest spacing attainable,
depending on detailed laser spot size, energy and pulse width, may
provide a low, net volumetric removal efficiency, which is the
ratio of achieved volume removal to the volume of material treated.
A simple example considers a void size equal to the spacing between
voids yielding a nominal 50% linear efficiency, which from
symmetric geometry has a 25% area efficiency and a corresponding
12.5% volumetric efficiency of void creation. Thus, by way of
example an approach is provided whereby the treatment shaped volume
is proportionally larger than desired shaped volume removal to
compensate for the low volume efficiency. In other words, if a
large shape change with low volume removal efficiency is attempted
then a small shape change should be achieved. Other effects such as
void shape, asymmetries, void location, tissue compliance as a
function of age, external forces and more, may effect the final
volume efficiency and experimental validation of volumetric
efficiency may be required.
[0128] EXAMPLE 6 provides a shot pattern and volume removal to make
a negative refractive change, or reduce the power in the
crystalline lens by 3 Diopters, using the Gullstrand-LaGrand
optical model, which would require the removal of approximately 180
um centrally tapering to 0 over a 3 mm radius. As illustrated in
FIG. 18 there is provided an outer lens surface 1801 and a shot
pattern 1802 for the desired volume removal. To achieve the full 3
Diopters refractive change directly, the shot pattern would have to
remove essentially 100% of the shaded region volume which is
extremely difficult due to low volume efficiency found in
photodissruption laser beam delivery.
[0129] EXAMPLE 7, is based upon dealing with low volume removal
efficiency and in this example the assumption that we have a
volumetric efficiency of 12.5% or 1/8.sup.th we would treat an 8
times larger volume or 1.44 mm thick to compensate for the low
volume efficiency, tapering to 0 over the same 3 mm as shown in
FIG. 19, which illustrates a lens outer surface 1901 and a shot
pattern 1902. As with the prior examples the shape of the shot
pattern is based upon and essentially follows the shape of the
outer surface 1901 of the lens.
[0130] EXAMPLE 8 provides a shot pattern to cause a refractive
change to increase lens power or reduce hyperopia in patients,
where the shot pattern is primarily implemented in the anterior
region of the lens. This pattern is illustrated in FIG. 20, which
provides an outer surface 2001 and thus shape of the lens and a
shot pattern 2002.
[0131] EXAMPLE 9 provides a shot pattern to cause a refractive
change to increase lens power or reduce hyperopia in patients,
where the algorithm is primarily implemented in the posterior
region of the lens. This pattern is illustrated in FIG. 21, which
provides an outer surface 2101 and thus shape of the lens and a
shot pattern 2102. This example further illustrates a shot pattern
having a shape modified to primarily follow the posterior curve of
the lens.
[0132] EXAMPLE 10 provides a shot pattern to cause a refractive
change to increase lens power or reduce hyperopia in patients,
where the shot pattern is primarily implemented in the central
region of the lens. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 22, there is
provided an outer surface 2201 of the lens and a shot pattern 2202,
which provides a volumetric shape. It further being noted that the
anterior shape of the lens or posterior shape of the lens or both
can be utilized to determine the shape of the shot pattern and/or
volumetric shape.
[0133] EXAMPLE 11 provides two volumetric shot patterns that follow
the shape of the lens surface to which they are adjacent. Thus, as
illustrated in FIG. 23, there is provided an outer surface 2301 and
thus shape of the lens and a shot pattern having two volumetric
shot patterns; a first shot pattern 2302 positioned in the anterior
region of the lens and a second shot pattern 2303 positioned in the
posterior region, which patterns provide a volumetric shape. Thus,
the volumetric shapes to be removed from the lens are located in
the anterior and posterior regions of the lens and have a surface
that follows the anterior and posterior shape of the lens
respectively.
[0134] EXAMPLE 12 illustrates a manner in which different shot
pattern features are combined to address both refractive errors and
those to increase flexibility utilizing a plurality of stacked
partial shells, which are partially overlapping. Thus, as
illustrated in FIG. 24, there is provided an outer surface 2401 and
thus shape of the lens and there are provided partial shell cuts
2402, whose extent is defined by a refractive shape, forming
annular ring shaped partial shells 2403. The placement of the
partial shell cuts are adjacent the anterior surface of the lens as
shown it FIG. 24. The partial shell cuts may similarly be placed
adjacent the posterior surface of the lens, in which case they
should follow the shape of that surface. Thus, by precisely
following the individual shape of the layers within the lens more
effective cleaving is obtained.
[0135] The shot pattern in the figures associated with EXAMPLES
6,7,8,9,10 and 11 are shown to cut horizontal partial planes whose
extent is defined by a refractive shape. It is to be understood
that as an alternative to horizontal planes, vertical partial
planes or other orientation cuts whose extent is defined by the
refractive shape may be used.
[0136] Examples 13 and 14 are directed towards methods and shot
patterns for treating and removal of cataracts and/or for clear
lens extractions. Thus, there is provided a method for the
structural modification of the lens material to make it easier to
remove while potentially increasing the safety of the procedure by
eliminating the high frequency ultrasonic energy used in Phaco
emulsification today. In general, the use of photodissruption
cutting in specific shape patterns is utilized to carve up the lens
material into tiny cube like structures small enough to be
aspirated away with 1 to 2 mm sized aspiration needles.
[0137] EXAMPLE 13 provides a shot pattern to create 0.5 mm sized
cubes out of the lens material following the structural shape of a
45-year old Burd Model lens. It is preferred that the patient's
actual lens shape can be measured and used. Thus, as illustrated in
FIG. 25, there is provided an outer surface 2501 and thus an outer
shape of the lens. There is further provided a shot pattern 2502
that creates grid like cuts, the end of which cuts 2503 essentially
follows the shape of the lens. There is further provided one shell
cut 2504, which is integral with the grid like cuts. The sequence
of laser shots in the pattern in FIG. 25 may be executed from
posterior to anterior, as in most of the patterns disclosed herein,
to obtain more predictable results by reducing the variation caused
by shooting through gas bubbles. However, it may be desirable to
shoot cataracts from the anterior to the posterior for the purpose
of choosing the lesser of two undesirable effects. Thus, it may be
advantageous to shoot through the gas bubbles, or let them
dissipate, rather than shooting through cataractus tissue, which
much more severely scatters the light and more quickly prevents
photodissruption compared to gas bubble interference. Accordingly,
it is proposed to photodissrupt the most anterior sections of the
cataract first, then move posteriorally, shooting through gas
bubble remnants of cataractous tissue, to the next layer of
cataract tissue below. In addition to shooting the laser in
anterior z planes then moving posterior, it is further provided to
essentially drill down anterior to posterior, which we call the z
axis throughout this document and then move in x/y and drill down
again.
[0138] EXAMPLE 14 provides for a clear lens extraction. In this
example the shot pattern of FIG. 25 is applied to a clear lens and
that lens material is subsequently removed. In this example
shooting from posterior to anterior is desirable.
[0139] EXAMPLE 15 provides for a precision capsulorhexis. The
creation of precise capsulorhexis for the surgeon to access the
lens to remove the lens material is provided. As illustrated in
FIGS. 30A-D, there is provided an outer surface 3001 and thus an
outer shape of the lens. There is further provided a ring shaped
band shape cut 3002 and shot pattern. Thus, the figure shows the
cross section view of this ring shaped annular band and accordingly
provides for two sides 3002 of the ring. The ring shaped
capsulorhexis cuts of 100 .mu.m deep, are approximately centered on
the anterior lens capsule surface and precisely 5 mm in diameter.
Since the lens capsule is approximately 5 to 15 .mu.m thick, it is
desirable for the depth of the cut to be typically between 5 and
several hundred um, although there is not much penalty for cutting
several millimeters. This diameter, however, can be varied between
0.1 mm to 9 mm diameter and the capsulorhexis can be elliptical
with the x axis different than the y axis or other shapes. A
particular IOL may benefit from and/or may require a particular
capsulorhexis shape.
[0140] Examples 16 to 17 relate to gradient index modification of
the lens. Moffat, Atchison and Pope, Vision Research 42 (2002)
1683-1693, showed that the natural crystalline lens contains a
gradient index of refraction behavior that follows the lens shells
structure and dramatically contributes to overall lens power. They
also showed that this gradient substantially diminishes, or
flattens as the lens ages reducing the optical power of the lens.
The loss of gradient index with age most likely explains the
so-called Lens Paradox, which presents the conundrum that the
ageing lens is known to grow to a steeper curvature shape that
should result in higher power, yet the aging lens has similar power
to the youthful lens. Essentially it is postulated that the
increase in power due to shape changes is offset by the power loss
from gradient index loss. Examples of the youthful vs. old age
gradient index behavior is shown in FIG. 31, which provides data
taken from the more recent work from the same group Jones,
Atchison, Meder and Pope, Vision Research 45 (2005) 2352-236. We
can see from this figure that the old lens 3101 has a flat index
behavior radially 3102 and the young lens 3103 has continuously
diminishing index radially 3104 from approximately 1.42 in the
center to 1.38 nearer the outer shells of the lens. Thus, based
upon this data it is provided to use the photodissruptive laser in
the creation of small voids within the lens fiber material which
will then fill-in with aqueous humor fluid which has a lower index
of refraction and, via area weighting or volume weighting, decrease
the net refractive index of a particular region. Accordingly, if
different void densities are placed in nested shell volumes, then
this would diminish the average index of refraction of essentially
concentric regions in a similar manner to the youthful lens.
[0141] EXAMPLE 16 provides a gradient index modification, which has
different void densities placed in nested volumes, as shown in FIG.
26. Thus, there is provided a series of nested shot patterns 2602
and a lens outer surface 2601, with each pattern creating an
incrementally different void density in the lens material. For
example, if a nominal 25% weighting efficiency was obtained in the
most densely treated region, filling that volume with 1.38 index of
aqueous humor, and the remaining region that was 75% lens material
of index 1.42, then the average resultant index of refraction would
be 0.25*1.38+0.75*1.42 or 1.41, which we see from FIG. 31, that
would restore the gradient from the center to a 2 mm radius, which
is the most central optical region for visual function. Thus, FIG.
26 shows a distributed regional treatment of increasing density
from the center of the lens to the periphery of the lens.
[0142] EXAMPLE 17 provides a gradient index modification that is
similar to example 16, except that the area where void density is
changed is located further from the outer surface of the lens. This
example and pattern is illustrated in FIG. 27. Thus there is
provided a series of nested shot patterns 2702 and lens outer
surface 2701, with each pattern creating an incrementally different
void density in the lens material. Moreover, this figure shows a
distributed regional shell treatment that is primarily confined to
the nucleus.
[0143] EXAMPLE 18 provides for the cutting in relation to suture
lines. Thus, cuts along either modeled suture lines, according to
Kuzak described suture locations as a function of shell geometry
with age and shape, or measured suture lines may be used. The
latter being provided by the measuring of patient lens sutures with
a CCD camera and aligning suture cuts to the measured locations of
suture lines. Thus, the brightest suture lines and/or those with
the widest spatial distribution likely belong to the deepest
layers, and perhaps the initial Y suture branches found in the
fetal nucleus. Further, there is provided to cut Y suture shapes at
the lowest layers in the lens and then increase the number of cuts
as the layers move out peripherally. Thus, according to these
teachings, FIGS. 28 & 29 show three different cutting patterns
2801, 2802, 2803 in the anterior portion of the lens that can be
done separately or in combination. Thus, FIGS. 28A, C & E shows
x-y cuts 2801, 2802, 2803 looking down at the anterior side of the
lens. FIGS. 28B, D, and F are schematic representations to
illustrate that the star shaped patterns follow the shape of the
layer of the lens and do not show the actual cut. FIG. 29 is the
combination of the illustrations in FIGS. 28B, D, and F to show
their relative positions. It is understood that similar suture cuts
can be made in the posterior following the posterior shell curves
there, based again on either modeled geometry or measured lens
data. There is yet further provided cutting
3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14 and 15 branch sutures per Kuszak., cut
separately or in any combination.
[0144] EXAMPLE 19 provides for making of nested, lens shaped shell
cuts in combination with cube shaped cuts. The laser shot patterns
for this example are illustrated in FIG. 32. In this figure there
is shown the outer surface 3201 of a lens. There is further
provided a series of nested or essentially concentric shells and
shell cuts, which essentially follow the shape of the lens. Thus,
there is provided annular shell cuts 3202, 3204, 3206, 3208, 3210,
3212, 3214, 3216, and 3218. Shell cuts 3202 and 3204 are positioned
nearer to and follow the anterior surface of the lens, while shell
cuts 3216 and 3218 are positioned nearer to and follow the
posterior surface of the lens. Shell cuts 3206, 3208, 3210, 3212
and 3214 follow the entire curvature of the lens from anterior to
posterior. The shell cuts form shells 3203, 3205, 3207, 3209, 3211,
3213, 3215, and 3217. These shells and shell cuts form annular
structures but are illustrated in FIG. 32 in cross-section. As
such, the shells or cuts on the left side of the figure correspond
to, and are part of, the shells or cuts shown on the right side of
the figure. These shells or partial shells are designed to increase
flexibility in the lens by decreasing the strength of nested fiber
layers by separating the bound layers, which it is theorized would
reduce the structural strength and increase deflection for a given
load or force.
[0145] There is further provided a second series of cuts in a cube
pattern 3220 of horizontal 3221 and vertical 3222 cuts. Shell cut
3214 borders and is joined with cube cuts 3221 and 3222. Such a
shell cut may be, but is not required to be present. Further, as
provided in FIG. 32, both these second cuts (cube cuts 3220) and
the first cuts (shell cuts 3202, 3204, 3206, 3208, 3210, 3212,
3214, 3216, and 3218) are removed away from the optical axis of the
lens by about 0.5 mm and thus form a cylinder of uncut lens
material 3250 that has a radius of about 0.5 mm (diameter of about
1 mm). Thus, there is shown in this figure a plurality of cuts and
cube pattern that provide a series of annular cuts surrounding a
central portion of the lens that is not altered by the laser.
[0146] EXAMPLE 20 provides for making of nested, lens shaped shell
cuts in combination with cube shaped cuts. The laser shot patterns
for this example are illustrated in FIG. 33. In this figure there
is shown the outer surface 3301 of a lens. There is further
provided a series of nested or essentially concentric shells and
shell cuts, which essentially follow the shape of the lens. Thus,
there is provided annular shell cuts 3302, 3304, 3306, 3308, 3310,
3312, 3314, 3316, and 3318. Shell cuts 3302 and 3304 are positioned
nearer to and follow the anterior surface of the lens, while shell
cuts 3316 and 3318 are positioned nearer to and follow the
posterior surface of the lens. Shell cuts 3306, 3308, 3310, 3312
and 3314 follow the entire curvature of the lens from anterior to
posterior. The shell cuts form shells 3303, 3305, 3307, 3309, 3311,
3313, 3315, and 3317. These shells and shell cuts form annular
structures but are illustrated in FIG. 33 in cross-section. As
such, the shells or cuts on the left side of the figure correspond
to, and are part of the shells or cuts shown on the right side of
the figure. These shells or partial shells are designed to increase
flexibility in the lens by decreasing the strength of nested fiber
layers by separating the bound layers, which it is theorized would
reduce the structural strength and increase deflection for a given
load or force.
[0147] There is further provided a second series of cuts in a cube
pattern 3320 of horizontal 3321 and vertical 3322 cuts. Shell cut
3314 borders and is joined with cube cuts 3321 and 3322. Such a
shell cut may be, but is not required to be present. Further, as
provided in FIG. 33, both these second cuts (cube cuts 3320) and
the first cuts (shell cuts 3302, 3304, 3306, 3308, 3310, 3312,
3314, 3316, and 3318) are removed away from the optical axis of the
lens by about 1 mm and thus form a cylinder of uncut lens material
3350 that has a radius of about 1 mm (diameter of about 2 mm).
Thus, there is shown in this figure a plurality of cuts and cube
pattern that provide a series of annular cuts surrounding a central
portion of the lens that is not altered by the laser.
[0148] EXAMPLE 21 provides for making of nested, lens shaped shell
cuts in combination with cube shaped cuts. The laser shot patterns
for this example are illustrated in FIG. 34. In this figure there
is shown the outer surface 3401 of a lens. There is further
provided a series of nested or essentially concentric shells and
shell cuts, which essentially follow the shape of the lens. Thus,
there is provided annular shell cuts 3402, 3404, 3406, 3408, 3410,
3412, 3414, 3416, and 3418. Shell cuts 3402 and 3404 are positioned
nearer to and follow the anterior surface of the lens, while shell
cuts 3416 and 3418 are positioned nearer to and follow the
posterior surface of the lens. Shell cuts 3406, 3408, 3410, 3412
and 3414 follow the entire curvature of the lens from anterior to
posterior. The shell cuts form shells 3403, 3405, 3407, 3409, 3411,
3413, 3415, and 3417. These shells and shell cuts form annular
structures but are illustrated in FIG. 34 in cross-section. As
such, the shells or cuts on the left side of the figure correspond
to, and are part of the shells or cuts shown on the right side of
the figure. These shells or partial shells are designed to increase
flexibility in the lens by decreasing the strength of nested fiber
layers by separating the bound layers, which it is theorized would
reduce the structural strength and increase deflection for a given
load or force.
[0149] There is further provided a second series of cuts in a cube
pattern 3420 of horizontal 3421 and vertical 3422 cuts. Shell cut
3414 borders and is joined with cube cuts 3421 and 3422. Such a
shell cut may be, but is not required to be present. Further, as
provided in FIG. 34, both these second cuts (cube cuts 3420) and
the first cuts (shell cuts 3402, 3404, 3406, 3408, 3410, 3412,
3414, 3416, and 3418) are removed away from the optical axis of the
lens by about 1.5 mm and thus form a cylinder of uncut lens
material 3450 that has a radius of about 1.5 mm (diameter of about
3 mm). Thus, there is shown in this figure a plurality of cuts and
cube pattern that provide a series of annular cuts surrounding a
central portion of the lens that is not altered by the laser.
[0150] EXAMPLE 22 provides for making of nested, lens shaped shell
cuts in combination with cube shaped cuts. The laser shot patterns
for this example are illustrated in FIG. 35 In this figure there is
shown the outer surface 3501 of a lens. There is further provided a
series of nested or essentially concentric shells and shell cuts,
which essentially follow the shape of the lens. Thus, there is
provided annular shell cuts 3502, 3504, 3506, 3508, 3510, 3512,
3514, 3516, and 3518. Shell cuts 3502 and 3504 are positioned
nearer to and follow the anterior surface of the lens, while shell
cuts 3516 and 3518 are positioned nearer to and follow the
posterior surface of the lens. Shell cuts 3506, 3508, 3510, 3512
and 3514 follow the entire curvature of the lens from anterior to
posterior. The shell cuts form shells 3503, 3505, 3507, 3509, 3511,
3513, 3515, 3517 and 3519. These shells and shell cuts form annular
structures but are illustrated in FIG. 35 in cross-section. As
such, the shells or cuts on the left side of the figure correspond
to, and are part of the shells or cuts shown on the right side of
the figure. These shells or partial shells are designed to increase
flexibility in the lens by decreasing the strength of nested fiber
layers by separating the bound layers, which it is theorized would
reduce the structural strength and increase deflection for a given
load or force.
[0151] There is further provided a second series of cuts in a shell
pattern 3520 of nested or essentially concentric shell cuts 3522,
3524, 3526, 3528, 3530 and 3532 which form shells 3523, 3525, 3527,
3529 and 3531. Further, as provided in FIG. 35, both these second
cuts 3520 and the first cuts (shell cuts 3502, 3504, 3506, 3508,
3510, 3512, 3514, 3516, and 3518) are removed away from the optical
axis of the lens. In this example, by varying the distance from
about 0.25 mm for cuts 3520 and from about 0.75 mm to about 2 mm
for cuts 3502 et. seq., there is provided a way to form a
cylindrical like area of uncut lens material 3550. This area of
uncut lens material has a portion of essentially uniform radius
3552 (note that inner cut 3532 is arcuate) of about 0.25 mm
(diameter of about 0.5 mm) and a portion having a changing radius
3551, varying from a radius of about 0.75 mm (diameter of about 1.5
mm) for cut 3516 to about 2 mm (diameter of about 4 mm) for cut
3514. In the area of changing radius 3551 it can be seen that the
change in radius/cut in this example is non-linear, with cut 3502
having a radius of about 0.75 mm, cut 3504 having a radius of about
1 mm, cut 3506 having a radius of about 1.25 mm, cut 3508 having a
radius of about 1.4 mm, cut 3510 having a radius of about 1.6 mm,
cut 3512 having a radius of about 1.7 mm, and cut 3514 having a
radius of about 1.8 mm. Thus, there is shown in this figure a
plurality of cuts that provide a series of annular cuts surrounding
a central portion of the lens that is not altered by the laser.
[0152] EXAMPLE 23 provides for making of nested, lens shaped shell
cuts in combination with cube shaped cuts. The laser shot patterns
for this example are illustrated in FIG. 36 In this figure there is
shown the outer surface 3601 of a lens. There is further provided a
series of nested or essentially concentric shells and shell cuts,
which essentially follow the shape of the lens. Thus, there is
provided annular shell cuts 3602, 3604, 3606, 3608, 3610, 3612, and
3614, which follow the anterior shape of the lens. There is further
provided a series of nested or essentially concentric shell cuts,
collectively, 3616, which follow the posterior surface of the lens,
and but for the difference in shape of the posterior and anterior
surface of the lens, are essentially mirror images of cuts 3602 et.
seq. None of the shell cuts 3602 et. seq. or 3616 follow the entire
curvature of the lens from anterior to posterior. The shell cuts
form shells 3603, 3605, 3607, 3609, 3611, 3613, 3615, and 3617 and,
collectively, 3617. These shells and shell cuts form annular
structures but are illustrated in FIG. 36 in cross-section. As
such, the shells or cuts on the left side of the figure correspond
to, and are part of the shells or cuts shown on the right side of
the figure. These shells or partial shells are designed to increase
flexibility in the lens by decreasing the strength of nested fiber
layers by separating the bound layers, which it is theorized would
reduce the structural strength and increase deflection for a given
load or force.
[0153] There is further provided a second series of cuts in a shell
pattern 3620 of nested or essentially concentric shell cuts 3622,
3624, 3626, 3628, 3630, 3632 and 3634, which form shells 3623,
3625, 3627, 3629, 3631 and 3633. Further, as provided in FIG. 36,
both these second cuts 3620 and the first cuts (shell cuts 3602,
3604, 3606, 3608, 3610, 3612, 3614 and 3616) are removed away from
the optical axis of the lens. There is provided a cylindrical like
area of uncut lens material 3650. This area of uncut lens material
has a portion of essentially uniform radius 3652 (note that inner
cut 3634 is arcuate) of about 0.25 mm (diameter of about 0.5 mm)
and a portion having a changing radius 3651. Thus, there is shown
in this figure a plurality of cuts that provide a series of annular
cuts surrounding a central portion of the lens that is not altered
by the laser.
[0154] EXAMPLE 24 provides for making of nested, lens shaped shell
cuts in combination with cube shaped cuts. The laser shot patterns
for this example are illustrated in FIG. 37. In this figure there
is shown the outer surface 3701 of a lens. There is further
provided a first series of nested or essentially concentric shells
and shell cuts, which essentially follow the shape of the lens.
Thus, there is provided annular shell cuts collectively 3702 and
3704. Cuts 3702 follow the anterior shape of the lens. Cuts 3704
follow the posterior surface of the lens. None of these shell cuts
3702, 3704, follow the entire curvature of the lens from anterior
to posterior. These shell cuts form shells (shown but not
numbered). These shells and shell cuts form annular structures but
are illustrated in FIG. 37 in cross-section. As such, the shells or
cuts on the left side of the figure correspond to, and are part of
the shells or cuts shown on the right side of the figure. These
shells or partial shells are designed to increase flexibility in
the lens by decreasing the strength of nested fiber layers by
separating the bound layers, which it is theorized would reduce the
structural strength and increase deflection for a given load or
force.
[0155] There is further provided a second series of cuts in a
pattern of nested or essentially concentric shell cuts,
collectively 3720, which form shells (shown but not numbered).
Further, as provided in FIG. 37, both these second cuts 3720 and
the first cuts 3702, 3704 are removed away from the optical axis of
the lens. There is provided a cylindrical like area of uncut lens
material 3650. This area of uncut lens material has a portion of
essentially uniform radius 3652 (note that the inner most cut is
arcuate) and portions having varying or changing radii 3751, 3753.
In this example, the change in radius is different between the
posterior 3751 and anterior 3753 sides. Further, the outer radii
for these cuts 3702, 3704, varies and in this example is different
for the anterior and posterior side cuts. Thus, there is shown in
this figure a plurality of cuts that provide a series of annular
cuts surrounding a central portion of the lens that is not altered
by the laser.
[0156] Various combinations of shell cuts can be employed. Thus,
the patterns of the Examples may be used with any of the other
patterns of those examples. Similarly, any of these patterns may
also be used in conjunction with the other patterns and teachings
of patterns provided in this specification, including the patterns
that are incorporated herein by reference. Moreover, when utilizing
the teachings of these examples regarding varying or changing radii
for uncut areas, the change in those radii per cut can be uniform,
non-uniform, linear or non-linear. Moreover, such changes in radii
per cut for either or both the interior radii (closest to the
optical axis of the eye) or the outer radii can be the same from
the anterior to the posterior side or the changes can be different
from the anterior to posterior side cuts.
[0157] Although not bound by this theory, it theorized that
increasing the deflection of the lens for a given load or zonule
force will increase the flexibility of the lens structure and, in
turn, the amplitude of accommodation for that same zonule force.
Further, it is theorized that by providing these annular shells in
conjunction with the cylindrical cuts and unaffected center portion
of the lens, for example 3250, 3350, 3450, 3550, 3650, and 3750,
the shape of the lens will be altered in a manner that provides for
an increase in the refractive power of the lens. Thus, the
combination of these first and second cuts provides for both
improved accommodative amplitude and increased refractive power of
the lens.
[0158] A further application of laser shot patterns is to create an
area of opacification in the lens, which opacification functions to
provide a limiting aperture in the lens, which limiting aperture is
smaller than the dark adapted pupil diameter. Use of a limiting
aperture in the visual system improves depth of field, depth of
focus and image quality. Thus, It is believed that creating such a
limiting aperture within the lens will provide these benefits and
may for example assist in the ability to see and read printed
materials. Moreover, it is believed that the creation of such a
limiting aperture can be combined with the creation of other cuts
and structures within the lens, which cuts and structures are for
the purpose of increasing refractive power and improving
accommodative amplitude, as taught for example in this
specification and the pending specifications that are incorporated
herein by reference. Thus it is believed that this combination of
limiting apertures and other structures will have an additive
effect to improving vision and especially near vision.
[0159] Such a limiting aperture would be provided by the creation
of an annulus of opacified lens material. The inner diameter for
this annulus of opacified material would be between about 1 to
about 4 mm and the outside diameter would be between about 4 to
about 7 mm. The degree of opacification in the annulus is not
necessarily 100% blocking, but must be blocking enough to reduce
negative visual symptoms. Thus, for example, about 90%, about 80%,
from about 20% to about 100%, and more specifically from about 50%
to about 100% opacification within the annulus, as measured by the
amount of light blocked, i.e. 100% minus the transmission
percentage, are provided. This opacified annulus is positioned
essentially central to the optical axis of the lens or essentially
central to the natural pupil. Additionally, the limiting aperture
may be located at any point between the anterior and posterior
surfaces of the lens. To create such an opacified annulus in the
lens the laser parameters would be chosen to have sufficient excess
energy or energy density, when compared with that which is required
for meeting minimum photo disruption threshold, to cause the lens
material to retain a degree of opacification. Moreover, by way of
example, other sources of excess energy, including thermal energy,
for the creation of the opacified lens aperture may be obtained by
choosing lasers with longer pulse widths, including but not limited
to, those that extend to continuous wave operation.
[0160] Examples 25 to 27 provide for combinations of limiting
apertures, shells and other structures for the purposes of
improving accommodative amplitude and increased refractive
power.
[0161] EXAMPLE 25, which is illustrated in FIG. 38, provides for a
limiting aperture 3802, having a diameter of about 2 mm (radius of
about 1 mm), that is located near to the anterior lens surface
3801, as well as, other structures 3803. The limiting aperture 3802
is provided by an opacified annulus 3804, having an outer diameter
of about 7 mm.
[0162] EXAMPLE 26, which is illustrated in FIG. 39, provides for a
limiting aperture 3902, having a diameter of about 2 mm that is
located central to the lens surface 3901 (i.e., between the
anterior and posterior surfaces of the lens), as well as, other
structures 3903. The limiting aperture 3902 is provided by an
opacified annulus 3904, having an outer diameter of about 4.5
mm.
[0163] EXAMPLE 27, which is illustrated in FIG. 40, provides for a
limiting aperture 4002, having a diameter of 1.5 mm, that is
located near the posterior of the lens surface 4001, as well as
other structures 4003. The limiting aperture 4002 is provided by an
opacified annulus 4004, having an outer diameter of about 6 mm.
[0164] It should further be understood that although the limiting
apertures are shown in combination with other structures they can
also be used without the presence of those structures. Moreover,
although the limiting apertures in these examples are shown as
having a smaller inner diameter than the other structures, it
should be understood that the inner diameter of some or all of the
other structures could be smaller than the inner diameter of the
limiting aperture, as these other structures are not opacified.
Further, the opacification of the annulus may decrease over time.
Thus, retreatment of the lens many be periodically required to
maintain the benefits set forth above.
[0165] There is further provided the use of substantially vertical
shot patterns, that is shot patterns that have cuts that are
essentially parallel to the optical axis of the eye.
[0166] EXAMPLE 28, which is illustrated in FIG. 41, provides an
outer surface 4101 of a lens that has a shot pattern that has
vertical cuts, e.g., 4102, arranged in a pattern that provides for
an annular area of cutting 4103. These figures are show in
cross-section and thus the pattern on the right side corresponds to
the pattern on the left side. Moreover, as such the density of
vertical cut is the same on the left and right side of the
figures.
[0167] EXAMPLE 29, which is illustrated in FIG. 42 provides a
further example of the use of vertical cuts. In this example there
is provided an outer surface 4201 of the lens that has a shot
pattern that has vertical cuts, e.g., 4202, arranged in a pattern
that provides for an annular area of cutting 4203. These figures
are shown in cross-section and thus the pattern on the right side
corresponds to the pattern on the left side. Moreover, as such the
density of vertical cut is the same on the left and right side of
the figures. As illustrated, the density of the vertical cuts in
Example 28 is substantially greater than the density of shots in
Example 29.
[0168] The vertical cuts can be separately spaced from each other
in the annular area, thus creating a series of parallel
disconnected vertical cuts, they can be positioned close enough
together to create a series of concentric vertical cylinders.
[0169] The inner diameter of the annular area of cutting when using
such vertical cuts as illustrated in Examples 10 and 11 is from
about 0.5 mm to about 2.5 mm and the outer diameter of such
vertical cuts is from about 2 or 3 mm to about 7 or 8 mm.
[0170] The use of vertical shot patterns or primarily vertical shot
patterns has added advantages in slower laser systems. In
particular, the use of vertical shot patterns has added advantages
in laser systems slower than F/# equals 1.5 (F/1.5), and in
particular slower that F/2. Additionally, the ability to move the
shots closer together, i.e., more dense, is obtainable with such
vertical shot patterns. Thus, the spacing can be smaller than three
times the spot size. Accordingly, fully cleaved horizontal lens
sections have been made by using shot densities small that were
smaller than three times the spot size, e.g., about 10-20 .mu.m
separation for a 10 .mu.m spot.
[0171] EXAMPLE 30 provides of the placement of the laser shot
pattern such that no shots, or at a minimum essentially no shots,
are placed in the organelle rich zone. Further the shot pattern can
be such that no shots, or at a minimum essentially no shots, are
placed on the organelle degradation zone. Thus, as one way to avoid
directing the laser to the living tissue of a lens it is provided
by way of example that the shot pattern should be about a 0.4 mm or
greater inset away from all the outer surfaces of the lens. Thus,
by way of example, the laser pulses so directed would be on lens
material that is denucleated. By way of further example the shot
pattern should be restricted to a region that is inset about 0.3 mm
from the surface at equator tapering to an inset that is about
0.125 mm at the surface by the anterior pole and an inset that is
about 0.2 mm from the surface at the posterior pole.
[0172] A further parameter in obtaining optimal performance of the
laser and laser shot pattern can be obtained by using the laser to
provide very fast multiple pluses, in effect, a rapid burst of
pulses to essentially on spot in the pattern. This implementation
provides the dual advantages of reduced Rayleigh ranges through the
use of lower energy pulses, while also increasing the probability
of achieving photodisruption, which has also been referred to as
Laser Induced Optical Breakdown (LIOB). Previously, it is believed
that the ability to reduced Rayleigh range effects through lower
energy pulses resulted in a decrease of the probability of
achieving LIOB.
[0173] For example, a laser such as the Lumera Rapid Laser
oscillator/amplifier can provide either one pulse of 20 .mu.J at a
50 kHz rate or a series of, or burst of, 2 to 20 pulses, with each
pulse in the burst being separated by 20 nanoseconds, due to the 50
MHz laser oscillator. Thus, the burst can be delivered such that
the total energy in the burst is approximately 20 .mu.J. For
example, a burst of 4 pulses would have approximately 5 .mu.J per
pulse and the rate at which each burst occurs would be 50 kHz.
[0174] Referring to FIG. 45 there is provided an illustration that
shows a comparison of single higher energy laser pulse with bursts
of lower energy laser pulses over time. Accordingly, there is
provided a single laser pulse 4371 (shown in dashed lines for
illustration purposes only) having an energy of 20 .mu.J and
another singe laser pulse 4372 (shown in dashed lines for
illustration purposes only) having an energy of 20 .mu.J. The time
shown by arrow 4392 between pulse 4371 and pulse 4372 is t.sub.2.
Thus, 4371 and 4372 represent the use of single 20 .mu.J pulses. If
for example t.sub.2 is equal to 20 .mu.sec (micro seconds) then the
rate for these pulses would be 50 kHz.
[0175] Still referring to FIG. 45 there is additionally shown burst
4500, 4510 and 4520. These burst are each shown as being made up of
four laser pulses. The use of four pulses is solely for the
purposes of illustration and is not meant to be and does not limit
the amount of pulses that may be utilized. Thus, burst 4500 is made
up of pulses 4501, 4502, 4503, and 4504; burst 4510 is made up of
pulses 4511, 4512, 4513 and 4514; and, burst 4520 is made up of
pulses 4521, 4522, 4523 and 4524. Each of the pulses in bursts
4500, 4510 and 4520 is 5 .mu.J. The time shown by arrow 4591 is the
time between each individual pulse, e.g., 4501 and 4502, in a
burst, e.g., 4500 and is referred to herein as t.sub.1. The time
shown by arrow 4593 between the first pulses in sequential bursts,
e.g., 4501 and 4511, is t.sub.3.
[0176] By way of example and for the purposes of illustration, it
is provided that for a scan rate of about 30 kHz to about 200 kHz,
a t.sub.3 of about 5 .mu.seconds to about 33 .mu.seconds, and a
t.sub.1 of about 5 nanoseconds to about 20 nanosecond may be
utilized.
[0177] For a given optical spot size, the amount of energy required
to exceed photodisruption threshold might be 5 .mu.J. Rather than
providing a single pulse of 20 .mu.J to a spot in a shot pattern, a
burst of 4, 5 .mu.J pulses could be utilized, with each pulse in
the burst being separated by about 20 nanoseconds. The use of such
a burst will tend to increase the probability of achieving
photodisruption threshold while also minimizing the Rayleigh range
effects of extending the tissue effect in the z direction, or along
the beam path. In this way the use of such bursts increase the
probability of achieving photodisruption, which has also been
referred to as Laser Induced Optical Breakdown (LIOB).
[0178] Accordingly, it is desirable to use energy densities in the
region around LIOB threshold, i.e., the threshold at which
photodisruption takes place, to minimize Rayleigh range effects.
However, in the vicinity of LIOB threshold small and sometimes
random variations in transmission, absorption, laser energy
fluctuations, or optical spot size variations due to for example
optical aberrations, can prevent LIOB in an undesirable and random
matter throughout the treatment field. Optical spot size variations
due to for example optical aberrations are especially found in low
F/# systems.
[0179] It is further desirable to have complete treatment in any
given treatment field. Thus, for example, in the shot patterns
provided herein the treatment filed would be all of the x y and z
coordinates of the pattern. It is further, for particular
applications and in particular horizontal cuts, desirable to have
laser energy densities in the vicinity of LIOB. Such energy
densities minimize Rayleigh range effects and thus minimize the
amount of material in the z direction that is removed. However, by
using such energy densities, and thus, obtaining the benefit of
minimized Rayleigh range effects, the undesirable and random
prevention of LIOB, as discussed above in the preceding paragraph,
can occur. Thus, to minimize Rayleigh range effect and avoid LIOB
prevention, it is provided to use of a burst of closely spaced in
time pulses, wherein each pulse within the burst is in the vicinity
of LIOB threshold. Through the use of such bursts the probability
of achieving LIOB threshold is increased compared to using a single
pulse with the same energy density.
[0180] The components and their association to one another for
systems that can perform, in whole or in part, these examples are
set forth above in detail. Additionally, it is noted that the
functions of the methods and systems disclosed herein may be
performed by a single device or by several devices in association
with each other. Accordingly, based upon these teachings a system
for performing these examples, or parts of these examples, may
include by way of illustration and without limitation a laser, an
optical system for delivering the laser beam, a scanner, a camera,
an illumination source, and an applanator. These components are
positioned so that when the eye is illuminated by the illumination
source, light will travel from the eye through the applanator to
the scanner. In this system the illumination source is movable with
respect to the eye to provide varying angles by which the eye can
be illuminated.
[0181] Similarly, such system may also include by way of example
and without limitation a laser, a system for determining the
position and shape of components of an eye, a camera, a controller
(which term refers to and includes without limitation processors,
microprocessors and/or other such types of computing devices that
are known to those of skill in the art to have the capabilities
necessary to operate such a system), an illumination source, and an
eye interface device. In this system the scanner is optically
associated with the eye interface device, such that when the eye is
illuminated by the illumination source, light will travel from the
eye through the eye interface device to the scanner. The scanner is
further optically associated with the camera, such that the scanner
has the capability to provide stereo pairs of images of the eye to
the camera. The camera is associated with the controller and is
capable of providing digital images of the eye to the controller;
and, the controller further has the capability to determine, based
in part upon the digital images provided from the camera, the
shape, position and orientation of components of the eye.
[0182] Moreover, such systems may also include by way of example
and without limitation a system for delivering a laser to an eye.
This system would have a laser, a scanner, a camera, an
illumination source, an eye interface device, a means for
determining the shape and position of components within an eye and
a means for directing the delivery of a laser beam from the laser
to a precise three dimensional coordinate with respect to the
components of the eye, the means for directing the delivery of the
laser beam having the capability to direct the beam based at least
in part on the determination of the shape and position of
components within the eye by the determining means.
[0183] From the foregoing description, one skilled in the art can
readily ascertain the essential characteristics of this invention,
and without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, can make
various changes and/or modifications of the invention to adapt it
to various usages and conditions.
* * * * *