An intraocular light probe has a
mask or shield affixed at its distal end thereof which forms a directed
light beam for intraocular illumination of target tissues or intraocular application of therapeutic light. The
mask or shield serves to more fully focus, intensify and direct the beam toward the target tissues. The
mask or shield also helps direct light away from other tissues and away from the eyes of the surgeon. This lessens unwanted glare. By placing a light probe beneath a
surgical instrument such as a phacoemulsifier or vitrector,
laser,
cutting instrument (e.g., scissors or knife),
forceps or probe /
manipulator, whether as part of or separate from an infusion sleeve, a mask or shield effect is created. This has the same benefits of directing the beam toward target tissues, away from other tissues and away from the eyes of the surgeon. The mask or shield is opaque or semi-opaque and made of a soft, semi-rigid or rigid material. The shield can be rigid enough to serve as the shaft of an instrument with a probe or
manipulator at its distal tip. It may also be reflective on the side adjacent to the
fiber bundle to help direct, magnify, and intensify the beam of light. The shape of the shield can be flat, curved or circular with an opening along one side. The mask / shield can be removed from the fiberoptic light for sterilization. The device of the invention is preferably introduced into the eye via the primary or side-port incision to provide intraocular cross-lighting of tissues during
surgical procedures such as
cataract surgery,
corneal surgery,
vitrectomy,
intraocular lens implantation,
refractive surgery,
glaucoma surgery and vitreo /
retinal surgery.