Patent ID: 6142996
Filing Date: 2000-11-07
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
A method for removing a lens from a mammalian eye through a small capsulotomy opening formed in the lens capsule of the mammalian eye leaving the central region of the anterior aspect of the lens capsule un-incised and intact, said method comprising the steps of:A) providing a monopolar electrosurgical capsulotomy probe device which has an annular electrode tip;B) electrically coupling a secondary electrode to the body of the patient;C) inserting the capsulotomy device into the eye such that the electrode tip is in contact with the lens capsule at a location which is lateral to the central region of the anterior aspect of the lens capsule;D) passing electrical current through the probe and to the electrode tip, said electrical current being of sufficient magnitude to form a capsulotomy opening at said location while allowing the central region of the anterior aspect of the lens capsule to remain in tact;E) removing the capsulotomy device from the eye;F) providing a lens reduction device which comprises an elongate probe having a rotating lens reducing head;G) inserting the lens reduction device through the capsulotomy opening created in Step D such that the rotating lens reducing head becomes positioned within the lens capsule;H) causing the lens reducing head to rotate so as to effect endocapsular reduction of the lens; and,(I) removing the reduced matter of the lens from the lens capsule through the capsulotomy opening created in Step D.