Patent ID: 6506176
Filing Date: 2003-01-14
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
A device for reducing an ophthalmic lens within the lens capsule of a mammalian eye, said device comprising:an elongate probe insertable into the lens capsule, said probe comprising: i. an outer tubular sheath comprising a hollow bore extending therethrough and defining a longitudinal axis; ii. an impeller shaft disposed in said outer tubular sheath, said impeller shaft having an impeller disposed at a distal end thereof, wherein an axis of rotation of said impeller is generally coincident with said longitudinal axis; and iii. said outer tubular sheath being configured and positioned, during operation of said device, such that a distal portion of said sheath will shield a portion of said impeller while allowing a remainder of said impeller to contact and reduce the lens; a handpiece having an interior space, a front end, and a back end, wherein an interior portion of said elongate probe extends through said handpiece front end and into said handpiece interior space; a drive assembly disposed in the interior space of said handpiece; said drive assembly being functionally connected to a proximal portion of said impeller shaft such that said impeller shaft rotates upon operation of said drive assembly, wherein said drive assembly receives non-rotational energy and transmits rotational energy; a translation apparatus for longitudinally moving said drive assembly, said translation apparatus being at least partially disposed in said handpiece interior space; and wherein said translation apparatus comprises an inflatable bladder disposed between said handpiece back end and said drive assembly.