Patent ID: 6254530
Filing Date: 2001-07-03
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
An illuminated surgical instrument for ophthalmic surgery comprising:an optical fiber having a proximal end and a distal end;a connector disposed at the proximal end of the optical fiber, said connector being adapted for connection to a source of illumination and for holding the proximal end of the optical fiber in position to accept light from the illumination source;a handpiece disposed generally at the distal end of the optical fiber, said handpiece having a handpiece body and a needle extending distally from the handpiece body, said optical fiber extending generally through the handpiece, said handpiece being of a size suitable for one-handed operation by a human user, and the needle being of a size suitable for insertion into a cavity in the human body such as the interior of a human eye;means at the distal end of the optical fiber for dispersing light passing from the illumination source through the cable to broaden the area on which the light impinges;a shield having a distal end disposed adjacent the dispersing means to prevent light from impinging upon a predetermined area, said predetermined area being disposed proximal to the needle and spaced transversely therefrom, the distal end of the shield being disposed proximally of the distal end of the optical fiber; anda surgical tool disposed adjacent at least a portion of said needle and extending distally beyond said dispersing means, said surgical tool operating in the area on which said light impinges, and being of a size suitable for insertion into a cavity in the human body such as the interior of a human eye.