Patent Publication Number: US-11648079-B2

Title: Apparatus and methods for surgical lighting

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application derives and claims priority from International Application PCT/US2018/020495, filed Mar. 1, 2018, and published under International Publication Number WO 2018/160864 A1, and from U.S. provisional application 62/465,248, filed Mar. 1, 2017. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The present disclosure generally relates to a surgical lighting apparatus and related methods for surgical lighting that include at least a light emitting element defining a light source and an outer layer for illuminating areas during a surgical procedure. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Conventional surgical lighting materials generally provide illumination from an external source such as a dissecting microscope, which may be oriented into a cavity or mounted on a surgical instrument. Surgical instruments with lighting implements include retractors, endoscopes, orthoscopic tools, suction tubes, and the like. However, such conventional implements and instruments do not provide adequate lighting during various surgical procedures. For example, deep surgical approaches, such as during aneurysm surgery, are far more dangerous under low-light conditions where the only light source consists of an external light source located outside the body. Visualization in this example is limited, and risk of injury is substantially increased. As another example, various neurological procedures require deep dissection, yet, the only light source may consist of a microscope light oriented outside the patient. 
     More general surgical procedures may be susceptible to low-light conditions as well. Laparoscopic surgery also involves low-light conditions where the only source of light in the abdomen is a single point source of light from an endoscope. Such limitations in lighting may limit visibility and in some cases may complicate the given procedure. 
     It is with these observations in mind, among others, that various aspects of the present disclosure were conceived and developed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding elements among the view of the drawings. The headings used in the figures do not limit the scope of the claims. 
         FIG.  1    is a simplified block diagram of an apparatus for surgical lighting, according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  2 A  is an illustration showing a top view of another embodiment of an apparatus for surgical lighting, according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  2 B  is a top view of multiple examples of the embodiment of an apparatus for surgical lighting of  FIG.  2 A , according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  3    is an illustration showing a top view of another embodiment of an apparatus for surgical lighting including multiple light emitting elements, according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  4    is a top view of another embodiment of an apparatus for surgical lighting defining a discrete light emitting element with an embedded battery, according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  5    is a top view of another embodiment of an apparatus for surgical lighting defining a light source that includes LED tape, according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  6    illustrates a first configuration of a light source for use with any of the embodiments of the apparatus described herein, according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  7    illustrates a second configuration of a light source for use with any of the embodiments of the apparatus described herein, according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  8    illustrates a third configuration of a light source for use with any of the embodiments of the apparatus described herein, according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  9    illustrates a fourth configuration of a light source for use with any of the embodiments of the apparatus described herein, according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  10    illustrates a fifth configuration of a light source for use with any of the embodiments of the apparatus described herein, according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  11    illustrates an exemplary configuration for surgical deployment using a plurality of light emitting elements, according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  12 A  is a mask layout for use with any of the embodiments of the apparatus described herein, according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  12 B  is a cross sectional view of the mask layout of  FIG.  12 A , according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS.  13 A- 13 B  are schematic circuit diagrams for use with any of the embodiments of the apparatus described herein, according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS.  14 A- 14 D  illustrate one possible process flow for forming embodiments of the apparatus described herein, according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The present disclosure relates to surgical lighting equipment, and more particularly to an apparatus and methods for surgical lighting including a light emitting element. The light emitting element defines a light source oriented along a substrate, an outer layer for encapsulating or enclosing the light source, a power supply for powering the light source, and an actuation mechanism for controlling power from the power supply to the light source to illuminate a surgical area. In some embodiments, the outer layer is biocompatible, and both the substrate and outer layer are malleable such that the light emitting element is suitable for various surgical applications. Referring to the drawings, embodiments of an apparatus for surgical lighting are illustrated and generally indicated as  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 , and  500  in  FIGS.  1 - 14   . 
     Referring to  FIG.  1   , one embodiment of an apparatus for surgical lighting, designated  100 , includes a light emitting element  102 . The light emitting element  102  may define a body  104 , which may be formed with dimensions ranging from 0.2 centimeters X 0.2 centimeters to 4 X 4 centimeters or larger. In some embodiments, the body  104  may be formed with dimensions on a micrometer or nanometer scale, or may be generally microscopic (e.g., a predetermined number of microns in diameter) as desired for different applications. In one specific embodiment, the body  104  may be generally 6 mm in length. In some embodiments, the body  104  may generally define a three-dimensional general polygonal or rectangular-shape as shown, but may also take the form of other shapes more suitable for various surgical applications including specific lighting functions, as described herein. 
     In some embodiments, the body  104  may be multilayered as indicated. Specifically, the body  104  of the light emitting element  102  may define a substrate  106  oriented in a generally central position along the body  104 . In some embodiments, the substrate  106  may include a generally planar member comprised of polyimide film or other flexible substrate material, with a plurality of copper or other conductive lines (not shown) formed along a surface of the polyimide film. The copper lines may be formed in a predefined pattern such that the substrate  106  is configured as a flexible printed circuit board (PCB), and the substrate  106  may define various electrical components (resistors, capacitors, switches, etc., not shown in  FIG.  1   ) to accommodate the lighting functions as further described herein. 
     The body  104  may further define a light source  108  mounted to or otherwise arranged along the substrate  106 , with the light source  108  being in electrical communication with the electrical components (not shown in  FIG.  1   ) of the substrate  106 . The light source  108  may include one or more of a light emitting diode (LED), LED tape, a miniature halogen bulb, an electrodeless lamp, a low/high pressure sodium light, a fluorescent lamp, a metal halide lamp, a sulfur lamp, an incandescent bulb, a discharge lamp, an arc lamp, a gas-discharge lamp, and the like. In some embodiments, the light source  108  defines a generally centrally positioned lighted layer of the body  104 . The light source  108  may take the form of various configurations for providing indwelling lighting to a surgical field. In one aspect, the light source  108  provides diffuse lighting to a surgical corridor that may be naturally dark or inadequately lit, for an improved surgical field of vision. 
     The body  104  may further define an outer layer  110  oriented around the light source  108  and the substrate  106 . In this manner, the outer layer  110  encapsulates the light source  108  and the substrate  106  such that the light source  108  and substrate  106  are at least partially or fully enclosed within the outer layer  110  to protect the light source  108  from external factors such as bodily tissue or fluids. The outer layer  110  may include one or more layers, or additional layers, such as non-absorptive fibers woven near their borders to form a uniform surface around the substrate  106  and light source  108  whereby upon implementation of the outer layer  110  the substrate  106  and light source  108  may be positioned along a generally central position within the body  104 . In some embodiments, the outer layer  110  includes polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), and/or may include plastics, acrylics, parylene coatings, sponge material, and/or silicone polymers. In some embodiments, the outer layer  110  may be non-absorbent (or absorbent), fluid-resistant, flexible, insulating, and biocompatible such that the outer layer  110  is suitable for various surgical and medical applications and may be suitable for use with bodily tissue during a surgical procedure. The outer layer  110  may be woven about the substrate  106  and light source  108 , or formed by deposition or other like methods. In some embodiments, the outer layer  110  of the light emitting element  102  may be formed using or more surgical patties (not shown) such that the light emitting element  102  may include sponge or cotton material. For example, the light source  108  may be positioned within a surgical patty (not shown). In these embodiments, the outer layer  110  may further include a disposable textile pad suitable for placement on or around tissue for providing fluid management or other surgical functions, as further described herein. Embodiments of the subject light emitting element  102  may be used in neurosurgery and positioned along surgical cavities to enhance illumination and also to protect normal, healthy nervous system tissue in a non-absorptive fashion during complex surgical dissections. 
     In some embodiments, the outer layer  110  may also include malleable memory-retaining materials such that the outer layer  110  (and the body  104  generally) of the light emitting element  102  is deformable or may be morphed to predetermined shape configurations and temporarily retain such configurations during deployment. Such flexibility of the outer layer  110  may accommodate the light emitting element  102  to be deformed to fit into difficult, narrow, or uneven surgical fields, and may allow the light emitting element  102  to be deformed to shape different configurations that are suitable for e.g., providing a barrier to fluids along a surgical area. In addition, the light emitting element  102  may further be prepackaged in a compact design, allowing deployment of the light emitting element  102  with a laparoscopic, cystoscopic, or hysteroscopic port for general surgery, urologic surgery, or gynecological surgery applications. As one specific example, the light emitting element  102  may be packaged in a folded configuration suitable for deployment through e.g., a laparoscopic port (not shown) within the abdominal or pelvic cavity. During deployment, the outer layer  110  further protects the light emitting element  102  from mechanical forces or stress exerted during movement or manipulation of the light emitting element  102 . For example, the outer layer  110  is suitable to insulate and protect the light source  108  from mechanical shear created by e.g., forceps or other surgical tools that may be used to grasp, deform, and/or move the light emitting element  102  along a surgical area. In one embodiment, the outer layer  110  may include one or more windows which may be aligned over the light source  108  to increase illumination. 
     In some embodiments, the light emitting element  102  may further include one or more radio-opaque markers  112  or indicators, designated radio-opaque markers  112 A and  112 B, located along the body  104  or anywhere along, on, or within the apparatus  100 . The radio-opaque markers  112  may be positioned anywhere along the body  104 , such as the outer layer  110  and/or surfaces of the substrate  106 , as desired. The radio-opaque markers  112  allow a surgeon to track and retrieve the light emitting element  102  from a surgical area using X-ray imaging (not shown). The radio-opaque markers  112  may be defined at discrete points along the body  104  as shown, or may be defined along a tape-like member or layer applied along the body  104 . In one aspect, the radio-opaque markers  112  may be useful to reduce the risk of misplacing the light emitting element  102  within a surgical corridor. 
     As further indicated in  FIG.  1   , the light source  108  of the light emitting element  102  may be electrically coupled (wired or wirelessly) to a power supply  114  and an actuating mechanism  116 . The power supply  114  may take a variety of forms and may include e.g., a battery that is rechargeable or disposable. In some embodiments, the power supply  114  may integrated within or positioned along the light emitting element  102 . Alternatively, the power supply  114  may be oriented external to the light emitting element  102  and may be e.g., positioned outside of the surgical area during deployment of the light emitting element  102 . The actuating mechanism  116  may include one or more switches, or like electromechanical devices, for controlling power from the power supply  114  to the light source  108 . Possible switches of the actuating mechanism  116  may include pushbutton switches, rocker switches, slide switches, a rheostat, transformer, variable resistor, solid-state semiconductor dimmer or similar device for providing different levels of current to the light source  108 , or the like. The power supply  114  may also be wirelessly triggered by the actuating mechanism  116 . For example, in one specific embodiment, the actuating mechanism  116  may include a reed switch defined along the substrate  106  and configured to activate and/or deactivate power from the power supply  114  when a magnetic source is oriented proximate to the actuating mechanism  116 . In another embodiment, the actuating mechanism  116  may include a receiver or antennae such that the actuating mechanism  116  may control the power from the power supply  114  to the light source  108  upon receiving one or more radio frequency signals. Further still, the light source  108  (and/or the power supply  114 ) may be powered by amplified radiofrequency (RF) energy or “wireless power” using a harvester and antennae (not shown), or may be powered by inductive coupling from a base station. 
     In some embodiments, the apparatus  100  may further include a retrieval tether  118 , which may include a string, rope, or otherwise define a generally elongated member connected to the light emitting element  102 . The retrieval tether  118  may be composed of a biocompatible material similar to the outer layer  110  and may allow a surgeon to physically retrieve the light emitting element  102  from a surgical area by pulling the retrieval tether  118  as needed. In addition, in other embodiments, the retrieval tether  118  may include an insulated electrical conduit to electrically couple the light source  108  to the power supply  114 . More specifically, the retrieval tether  118  may include one more conductive layers, lines, or wires, surrounded by an insulating layer that electrically connects the power supply  114  and/or an external power source to the light source  108 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  2 A , another embodiment of an apparatus designated  200 , and based on the general concept and functionality described in  FIG.  1   , may include a light emitting element  202  defining a body  204 . The body  204  of the light emitting element  202  may define a substrate  206  oriented in a generally central position along the body  204 . In some embodiments, the substrate  206  may include a generally planar member comprised of polyimide film or other flexible substrate material, with a plurality of plurality of copper or other conductive lines (not shown) formed along a surface of the polyimide film. The copper lines may be formed in a predefined pattern such that the substrate  206  is configured as a flexible PCB, and the substrate  206  may define various electrical components (resistors, capacitors, switches, etc., not shown) to accommodate the lighting functions as further described herein. 
     The body  204  may further define a light source  208 , mounted to, coupled to, supported by, or otherwise oriented along the substrate  206 . With the apparatus  200 , the light source  208  may define a plurality of LEDs  208 A- 208 F arranged along the substrate  206  as shown, and in electrical communication with the electrical components (not shown) of the substrate  206 . In the example shown, the plurality of LEDs  208 A- 208 F may be arranged in linear rows as indicated, but the present disclosure is not limited in this regard. 
     The body  204  may further define an outer layer  210  oriented around the plurality of LEDs  208 A- 208 F and the substrate  206 . In this manner, the outer layer  210  encloses the light source  208  and the substrate  206  at least partially or fully to protect the light source  208  from external factors such as bodily tissue or fluids. The outer layer  210  may include one or more layers that include e.g., non-absorptive fibers woven near their borders to form a uniform surface and enclose the substrate  206  and light source  208  within a generally central position along the body  204 . In some embodiments, the outer layer  210  includes polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), and/or may include plastics, acrylics, and/or silicone polymers. The outer layer  210  may be non-absorbent (or absorbent), fluid-resistant, flexible, insulating, and biocompatible such that the outer layer  210  is suitable for various surgical and medical applications. In some embodiments, the outer layer  210  may also include malleable memory-retaining materials such that the outer layer  210  (and the body  204  generally) of the light emitting element  202  is deformable or may be morphed to predetermined shape configurations and temporarily retain such configurations during deployment. In some embodiments, the outer layer  210  of the light emitting element  202  may be formed using or more surgical patties (not shown) such that the light emitting element  202  may include sponge or cotton material. For example, the light source  208  may be positioned within a surgical patty. In these embodiments, the outer layer  210  may further include a disposable textile pad suitable for placement on or around tissue for providing fluid management or other surgical functions, as further described herein. The subject light emitting element  202  may be used in neurosurgery and positioned along surgical cavities to enhance illumination and also to protect normal, healthy nervous system tissue in a non-absorptive fashion during complicated surgical dissections. 
     As further indicated in  FIG.  2 A , the light source  208  of the light emitting element  202  may be electrically coupled to a power supply  214  which may be implemented in the form of a battery external to the light emitting element  202  and may be a 3-9 volt battery although the present disclosure is not limited in this regard. In this manner, the power supply  214  may be positioned outside of the surgical area during deployment of the light emitting element  202 . As further shown, the power supply  214  may be electrically coupled to the light source  208  by way of an electrical conduit  215 . In some embodiments, the electrical conduit  215  may generally define one or more conductive lines surrounded by an insulating layer. 
     In some embodiments, the apparatus  200  includes an actuating mechanism  216  along the substrate  206  or proximate to the power supply  214  and electrically coupled to the power supply  214  and/or the light source  208 . The actuating mechanism  216  may include one or more switches or like electromechanical devices for controlling power from the power supply  214  to the light source  208 . Possible switches of the actuating mechanism  216  may include pushbutton switches, rocker switches, slide switches, a rheostat, transformer, variable resistor, solid-state semiconductor dimmer or similar device for providing different levels of current to the light source  208 , or the like. The power supply  214  may also be wirelessly triggered by the actuating mechanism  216 . For example, in one specific embodiment, the actuating mechanism  216  may include a reed switch configured to activate and/or deactivate power from the power supply  214  when a magnetic source is positioned proximate to the actuating mechanism  216 . In another embodiment, the actuating mechanism  216  may include a receiver such that the actuating mechanism  216  is configured to control the power from the power supply  214  to the light source  208  upon receiving one or more radio frequencies. Further still, the light source  208  (and/or the power supply  214 ) may be powered by amplified radiofrequency (RF) energy or “wireless power,” or may be powered by inductive coupling from a base station. 
     The apparatus  200  may include additional aspects illustrated in  FIG.  1   . In some embodiments, for example, the apparatus  200  may further include one or more radio-opaque markers (not shown) arranged along the body  204  or the electrical conduit  215 . In addition, a tether (not shown), similar to the retrieval tether  118  illustrated in  FIG.  1   , may be defined along the body  204 . By way of example,  FIG.  2 B  illustrates a set of the apparatuses  200  prior to deployment. 
     Referring to  FIG.  3   , another embodiment of an apparatus designated  300 , based on the general concept and functionality described in  FIG.  1   , may include a first light emitting element  302 A defining a first body  304 A, and a second light emitting element  302 B defining a second body  304 B such that the first light emitting element  302 A and the second light emitting element  302 B are oriented in a chain-like configuration. The first body  304 A of the first light emitting element  302 A may define a first substrate  306 A oriented in a generally central position along the first body  304 A. Similarly, the second body  304 B of the second light emitting element  302 B may define a second substrate  306 B oriented in a generally central position along the second body  304 B. In some embodiments, the substrates  306 A and  306 B may each define a generally planar member comprised of polyimide film or other flexible substrate material, with a plurality of plurality of copper or other conductive lines (not shown) formed along a surface of the polyimide film. The copper lines may be formed in a predefined pattern such that the substrates  306 A and  306 B are configured as flexible PCBs. In addition, the substrates  306 A and  306 B may define various electrical components (resistors, capacitors, switches, etc., not shown) to accommodate the lighting functions as further described herein. 
     The apparatus  300  may define a light source  308 , represented as a plurality of LEDs  308 A- 308 F mounted to or otherwise oriented along the first substrate  306 A and a plurality of LEDs  308 G- 308 L mounted to or otherwise oriented along the second substrate  306 B. In the example shown, the plurality of LEDs  308 A- 308 F and the plurality of LEDs  308 G- 308 L may be arranged in linear rows as indicated, but the present disclosure is not limited in this regard. 
     The first body  304 A may further define an outer layer  310 A positioned around the plurality of LEDs  308 A- 308 F and the first substrate  306 A. In this manner, the outer layer  310 A encloses both the plurality of LEDs  308 A- 308 F and the first substrate  306 A at least partially or fully to protect the plurality of LEDs  308 A- 308 F from external factors such as bodily tissue or fluids. In addition, the outer layer  310 A may include one or more layers that include e.g., non-absorptive fibers woven near its borders to form a uniform surface and enclose the first substrate  306 A and the plurality of LEDs  308 A- 308 F within a generally middle position along the first body  304 A. In some embodiments, the outer layer  310 A includes PDMS, and/or may include plastics, acrylics, and/or silicone polymers. The outer layer  310 A may be non-absorbent (or absorbent), fluid-resistant, flexible, insulating, and biocompatible such that the outer layer  310 A is suitable for various surgical and medical applications. In some embodiments, the outer layer  310 A may also include a malleable memory-retaining material such that the outer layer  310 A (and the first body  304 A generally) of the first light emitting element  302 A is deformable or may be morphed to predetermined shape configurations and temporarily retain such configurations during deployment. 
     In addition, the second body  304 B may further define an outer layer  310 B positioned around the plurality of LEDs  308 G- 308 L and the second substrate  306 B. In this manner, the outer layer  310 B encloses both the plurality of LEDs  308 G- 308 L and the second substrate  306 B at least partially or fully to protect the plurality of LEDs  308 G- 308 L from external factors such as bodily tissue or fluids. The outer layer  310 B may include one or more layers that include e.g., non-absorptive fibers woven near their borders to form a uniform surface and enclose the second substrate  306 B and the plurality of LEDs  308 G- 308 L within a generally middle position along the second body  304 B. In some embodiments, the outer layer  310 B includes PDMS, and/or may include plastics, acrylics, and/or silicone polymers. The outer layer  310 B may be non-absorbent, fluid-resistant, flexible, insulating, and biocompatible such that the outer layer  310 B is suitable for various surgical and medical applications. In some embodiments, the outer layer  310 B may also include a malleable memory-retaining material such that the outer layer  310 B (and the second body  304 B generally) of the second light emitting element  302 B is deformable or may be morphed to predetermined shape configurations and temporarily maintain such configurations during deployment. In some embodiments, the outer layer  310 A or the outer layer  310 B may be formed using or more surgical patties (not shown) such that the light emitting elements  302 A and  302 B may include sponge or cotton material. For example, each of the light emitting elements  302 A and  302 B may be positioned within a surgical patty (not shown). In these embodiments, the outer layer  310 A or the outer layer  310 B may further include a disposable textile pad suitable for placement on or around tissue for providing fluid management or other surgical functions, as further described herein. 
     As further shown, the light source  308  of the apparatus  300  may be electrically coupled to a power supply  314  which may be implemented in the form of a battery external to the first light emitting element  302 A and the second light emitting element  302 B and may be a 3-9 volt battery although the present disclosure is not limited in this regard. In this manner, the power supply  314  may be positioned outside of the surgical area during deployment of the first and second light emitting elements  302 A and  302 B. As further shown, the power supply  314  may be electrically coupled to the light source  308  by way of an electrical conduit  315 . The electrical conduit  315  may generally define one or more conductive lines surrounded by an insulating layer. More specifically, the electrical conduit  315  may be electrically coupled along the first light emitting element  302 A and the second light emitting element  302 B to create the chain-like configuration and extend access to power from the power supply  314  and the second light emitting element  302 B to the first light emitting element  302 A. In other embodiments, the power supply  314  may be connected in parallel, rather than in series as shown. In some embodiments, the each of the first lighting element  302 A and the second light emitting element  302 B may be coupled to individual respective power supplies (not shown). 
     In some embodiments, the apparatus  300  includes one or more of an actuating mechanism  316  along the first substrate  306 A and/or second substrate  306 B or proximate to the power supply  314  and electrically coupled to the power supply  314  and/or the light source  308 . The actuating mechanism  316  may include one or more switches or like electromechanical devices for controlling power from the power supply  314  to the light source  308 . Possible switches of the actuating mechanism  316  may include pushbutton switches, rocker switches, slide switches, dimming devices including a transformer, variable resistor, or solid-state semiconductor dimmer, or the like. The power supply  314  may also be wirelessly triggered by the actuating mechanism  316 . For example, in one specific embodiment, the actuating mechanism  316  may include a reed switch configured to activate and/or deactivate power from the power supply  314  when a magnetic source is oriented proximate to the actuating mechanism  316 . In another embodiment, the actuating mechanism  316  may include a receiver such that the actuating mechanism  316  is configured to control the power from the power supply  314  to the light source  308  upon receiving one or more radio frequencies. Further still, the light source  308  (and/or the power supply  314 ) may be powered by amplified RF energy or “wireless power,” or may be powered by inductive coupling from a base station. 
     The apparatus  300  may include additional aspects illustrated in  FIG.  1   . In some embodiments, for example, the apparatus  300  may further include one or more radio-opaque markers (not shown) arranged along the first light emitting element  302 A, the second light emitting element  302 B, or the electrical conduit  315 . In addition, a tether (not shown), similar to the retrieval tether  118  illustrated in  FIG.  1   , may be defined along the apparatus  300 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  4   , another embodiment of an apparatus designated  400 , based on the general concept and functionality described in  FIG.  1   , may include a light emitting element  402  defining a body  404 . The body  404  of the light emitting element  402  may define a substrate  406  oriented in a generally central position along the body  404 . In some embodiments, the substrate  406  may define a generally planar member comprised of polyimide film or other flexible substrate material, with a plurality of plurality of copper or other conductive lines (not shown) formed along a surface of the polyimide film. The copper lines may be formed in a predefined pattern such that the substrate  406  is configured as a flexible PCB. In addition, the substrate  406  may define various electrical components (resistors, capacitors, switches, etc., not shown) to accommodate the lighting functions as further described herein. 
     The body  404  may further define a light source  408 , mounted to or otherwise oriented along the substrate  406 . With the apparatus  400 , the light source  408  may include one or more LEDs, designated  408 A- 408 F arranged along the substrate  406  as shown, and in electrical communication with the electrical components (not shown) of the substrate  406 . In the example shown, the plurality of LEDs  408 A- 408 F may be arranged in linear rows as indicated, but the present disclosure is not limited in this regard. 
     The body  404  may further define an outer layer  410  oriented around the plurality of LEDs  408 A- 408 F and the substrate  406 . In this manner, the outer layer  410  encapsulates the light source  408  and the substrate  406  at least partially or fully to protect the light source  408  from external factors such as bodily tissue or fluids. The outer layer  410  may include one or more layers that include e.g., non-absorptive fibers woven near their borders to form a uniform surface and enclose the substrate  406  and light source  408  within a generally middle position along the body  204 . In some embodiments, the outer layer  410  includes PDMS, and/or may include plastics, acrylics, and/or silicone polymers. The outer layer  410  may be non-absorbent (or absorbent), fluid-resistant, flexible, insulating, and biocompatible such that the outer layer  410  is suitable for various surgical and medical applications. In some embodiments, the outer layer  410  may also include malleable memory-retaining materials such that the outer layer  410  (and the body  404  generally) of the light emitting element  402  is deformable or may be morphed to predetermined shape configurations and temporarily retain such configurations during deployment. In some embodiments, the outer layer  410  of the light emitting element  402  may be formed using or more surgical patties (not shown) such that the light emitting element  402  may include sponge or cotton material. For example, the light source  408  may be positioned within a surgical patty. In these embodiments, the outer layer  410  may further include a disposable textile pad suitable for placement on or around tissue for providing fluid management or other surgical functions, as further described herein. The subject light emitting element  402  may be used in neurosurgery and positioned along surgical cavities to enhance illumination and also to protect normal, healthy nervous system tissue in a non-absorptive fashion during complicated surgical dissections. 
     As further indicated, the light source  408  of the light emitting element  402  may be electrically coupled to a power supply  414  which may be implemented in the form of a 3-9 volt battery, although the present disclosure is not limited in this regard. In this embodiment of the apparatus  400 , the power supply  414  may be positioned along the light emitting element  402 , and may be integrated within the outer layer  410  and mounted to the substrate  406 , for example. In this manner, the light emitting element  402  is generally discrete and wireless in its application. 
     In some embodiments, the apparatus  400  further includes an actuating mechanism  416  along the substrate  406  or proximate to the power supply  414  and electrically coupled to the power supply  414  and/or the light source  408 . The actuating mechanism  416  may include one or more switches or like electromechanical devices for controlling power from the power supply  414  to the light source  408 , which may be defined along the substrate  406 . Possible switches of the actuating mechanism  416  may include pushbutton switches, rocker switches, slide switches, a rheostat, transformer, variable resistor, solid-state semiconductor dimmer, or similar device for providing different levels of current to the light source  408 , or the like. The power supply  414  may also be wirelessly triggered by the actuating mechanism  416 . For example, in one specific embodiment, the actuating mechanism  416  may include a reed switch configured to activate and/or deactivate power from the power supply  414  when a magnetic source is positioned proximate to the actuating mechanism  416 . In another embodiment, the actuating mechanism  416  may include a receiver such that the actuating mechanism  416  is configured to control the power from the power supply  414  to the light source  408  upon receiving one or more radio frequencies. Further still, the light source  408  (and/or the power supply  414 ) may be powered by amplified RF energy or “wireless power,” or may be powered by inductive coupling from a base station. 
     The apparatus  400  may include additional aspects illustrated in  FIG.  1   . In some embodiments, for example, the apparatus  400  may further include one or more radio-opaque markers (not shown) arranged along the body  404 . In addition, a tether (not shown), similar to the retrieval tether  118  illustrated in  FIG.  1   , may be defined along the body  404 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  5   , a fifth embodiment of an apparatus designated  500 , based on the general concept and functionality described in  FIG.  1   , may include a light emitting element  502  defining a body  504 . The body  504  of the light emitting element  502  may define a substrate  506  which is generally elongated and planar member comprised of polyimide film or other flexible substrate material, with a plurality of plurality of copper or other conductive lines (not shown) formed along a surface of the polyimide film. The copper lines may be formed in a predefined pattern such that the substrate  506  is configured as a flexible PCB, and the substrate  506  may define various electrical components (resistors, capacitors, switches, etc., not shown) to accommodate the lighting functions as further described herein. 
     The body  504  may further define a light source  508 , mounted to or otherwise oriented along the substrate  506 . With the apparatus  500 , the light source  508  may define an LED strip light or LED tape in electrical communication with the electrical components (not shown) of the substrate  506 . In some embodiments, the light source  508  may include surface mounted LEDs or surface mounted devices (SMD) LEDs which may include different shapes, sizes, and power levels, depending upon the application desired for the apparatus  500 . 
     The body  504  may further define an outer layer  510  oriented around the light source  508  and the substrate  506 . In this manner, the outer layer  510  encloses the light source  508  and the substrate  506  at least partially or fully to protect the light source  508  from external factors such as bodily tissue or fluids. The outer layer  510  may include one or more layers that include e.g., non-absorptive fibers woven near its borders to form a uniform surface and enclose the substrate  506  and light source  508  within a generally middle position along the body  504 . In some embodiments, the outer layer  510  includes PDMS, and/or may include plastics, acrylics, and/or silicone polymers. The outer layer  510  may be non-absorbent (or absorbent), fluid-resistant, flexible, insulating, and biocompatible such that the outer layer  510  is suitable for various surgical and medical applications. In some embodiments, the outer layer  510  may also include malleable memory-retaining materials such that the outer layer  510  (and the body  504  generally) of the light emitting element  502  is deformable or may be morphed to predetermined shape configurations and temporarily retain such configurations during deployment. In some embodiments, the outer layer  510  of the light emitting element  502  may be formed using or more surgical patties (not shown) such that the light emitting element  502  may include sponge or cotton material. For example, the light source  508  may be positioned within a surgical patty (not shown). In these embodiments, the outer layer  510  may further include a disposable textile pad suitable for placement on or around tissue for providing fluid management or other surgical functions, as further described herein. 
     As further indicated, the light source  508  of the light emitting element  502  may be electrically coupled to a power supply  514  which may include a driver. In the embodiment shown, the power supply  514  is integrated within the outer layer  510  such that the light emitting element  502  is wireless, but the power supply  514  may also include a USB device, plug, or otherwise be wired in some form. 
     In some embodiments, the apparatus  500  further includes an actuating mechanism  516  positioned along the substrate  506  or proximate to the power supply  514  and electrically coupled to the power supply  514  and/or the light source  508 . The actuating mechanism  516  may include one or more switches or like electromechanical devices for controlling power from the power supply  514  to the light source  508 . Possible switches of the actuating mechanism  516  may include pushbutton switches, rocker switches, slide switches, a transformer, a variable resistor, a solid-state semiconductor dimmer, or the like. The power supply  514  may also be wirelessly triggered by the actuating mechanism  516 . For example, in one specific embodiment, the actuating mechanism  516  may include a reed switch configured to activate and/or deactivate power from the power supply  514  when a magnetic source is positioned proximate to the actuating mechanism  516 . In another embodiment, the actuating mechanism  516  may include a receiver such that the actuating mechanism  516  is configured to control the power from the power supply  514  to the light source  508  upon receiving one or more radio frequencies. Further still, the light source  508  (and/or the power supply  514 ) may be powered by amplified RF energy or “wireless power,” or may be powered by inductive coupling from a base station. 
     The apparatus  500  may include additional aspects illustrated in  FIG.  1   . In some embodiments, for example, the apparatus  500  may further include one or more radio-opaque markers (not shown) arranged along the body  504 . In addition, a tether (not shown), similar to the retrieval tether  118  illustrated in  FIG.  1   , may be defined along the body  504 . 
     Other aspects and advantages of the various embodiments and light emitting elements  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  described in  FIGS.  1 - 5    are contemplated. For example, any one of the described light emitting elements  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  may provide miniaturized surgical lighting, and may be on the millimeter or centimeter scale, as modern pLEDs may be as small as 25 X 25 micrometers, providing remarkable illumination to low-light surgical environments. Further, the light emitting elements  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  may sponge material, to reduce engagement to bodily tissue such that the light emitting elements  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  may be moveable along a surgical area unlike fixed lighting devices. In some embodiments, by implementing dimmer devices including rheostat dimmers, transformers, variable resistors, solid-state dimmers in the form of semiconductor devices, other devices for controlling the voltage waveform applied to the light sources  108 ,  208 ,  308 ,  408 , and  508 , the illumination provided by the light sources  108 ,  208 ,  308 ,  408 , and  508  described may also be dimmable and adjustable as needed during deployment. In addition, the light emitting elements may be efficiently manufactured and entirely disposable. 
     Referring to  FIG.  6   , one possible light source configuration  608 A is shown which may be implemented with any one of the apparatuses  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 ,  500  described herein. In this example, the light source configuration  608 A defines a plurality of LEDs arranged in a columnar configuration or array, which may be ideal for providing columnar lighting. In other embodiments, the light source configuration  608 A may include a plurality of LEDs arranged in a staggered configuration for providing more diffuse lighting, or a tight circular array for providing more focused lighting. The LEDs of the light source configuration  608 A may further be arranged in offset, alternating, square, or diamond configurations. 
     Referring to  FIG.  7   , another light source configuration  608 B which may be implemented with any one of the apparatuses  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 ,  500  described herein is shown which may include a sole LED or other light source arranged within a light emitting element similar to apparatus embodiments of  FIGS.  1 - 5   . Utilizing a single LED or light source may be suitable where it is desired that individual light emitting elements  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  be disposable or where such light emitting elements are mere micrometers in size. Each LED of  FIGS.  6 - 7    may be on the order of tens of thousands of microns in diameter depending upon the illumination necessary and the size of a containing light emitting element. 
     Referring to  FIG.  8   , another light source configuration  608 C which may be implemented with any one of the apparatuses  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 ,  500  described herein is shown. In this embodiment, the light source configuration  608 C includes one or more LEDs or other light sources  108 ,  208 ,  308 ,  408 ,  508  that emit a uniform wavelength. In contrast, referring to  FIG.  9   , another embodiment of a light source configuration  608 D which may be implemented with any one of the apparatuses  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 ,  500  described herein includes one or more LEDs or other light sources  108 ,  208 ,  308 ,  408 ,  508  that emit varying wavelengths.  FIGS.  8 - 9    illustrate that various types of LEDs may be implemented to provide different predefined surgical functions, e.g., illuminate a surgical area at specific wavelengths in order to achieve various benefits. In some embodiments, the wavelength of the light emitted from light sources  108 ,  208 ,  308 ,  408 ,  508  may be adjusted and depend upon the band gap energy of the predetermined semiconductor materials forming the p-n junction of a respective LED defined by the light sources  108 ,  208 ,  308 ,  408 ,  508 . In other words, different semiconductor materials may be used to form LEDs representing the light sources  108 ,  208 ,  308 ,  408 ,  508  that may correspond to different desired wavelengths of light. Wavelengths may correspond to certain procedures that use dyes that are excited at a specific wavelength for e.g., tumor visualization and vascular flow assessment, wavelengths that provide antiseptic properties, wavelengths that provide better visual differentiation, reduce reflection, glare, or otherwise improve visual discrimination. With respect to a dye-based application, dyes are often inserted or ingested into the body, including vasculatures, neurological tissue, and ducts to better visualize cancerous tissue and arterial vasculature. These dyes contain molecules that when activated by light at a certain wavelength, emit light that is detectable either by sight or by various detection equipment. This allows a surgeon to detect the movement of fluids, uptake of molecules, blockages, breakages, etc. 
     In one specific possible implementation, blue spectrum lighting in the range of 375-440 nm could be utilized to visualize gliomas or tumors in general when patients are administered 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) to separate cancerous tissue from normal healthy tissue. Light in the wavelength near 494 nm could be used to excite fluorescein fluorophore for intra-operative separation of cancerous tissue from healthy tissue. Both 5-ALA and fluorescein have been widely tested in the United States and in Europe for resection of high-grade glioma from normal healthy tissue. Such an approach may allow alternative or supplementary excitatory light sources to assist the surgeon in visual identification of cancerous tissue. When the described light emitting elements  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  are deployed during surgery, identification of cancerous tissue could be greatly improved. For example, in deep head and neck surgery for cancers of the ear, nose, or throat, fluorescein excitation with surgical light emitting elements as described herein may be useful in narrow corridors to reach lesions of interest. 
     Another example of a specific implementation of the described light emitting elements  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  involves an LED emitting light in the range of 600-900 nm to excite indocyanine green (ICG), which can be used to visualize arterial blood flow when administered to a patient. Much like the applications with 5-ALA and fluorescein described herein, ICG may be excited by an additional supplemental light source in the form of the described light emitting element, allowing light excitation from sources beyond conventional lighted surgical tools. 
     Yet another example of a specific implementation involves emitting light in the ultraviolet-C range, which has been traditionally considered carcinogenic and cataractogenic. However, it has been recently shown that UV-C light does not penetrate human cell membranes; as such, it is highly bactericidal and viricidal without having a significant effect on human cells. UV-C light may be deployed from any one of the described light emitting elements  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  to decontaminate a surgical area from bacteria. Bacteria which are antibiotic resistant would also be susceptible to light emitted in the UV-C range. 
     Referring to  FIG.  10   , another light source configuration  700  for a light emitting element  702  is shown with one or more light sources  708 . This embodiment illustrates that the light emitting element  702  may take on different shape configurations, and that the light emitting element  702  may be malleable or bendable as needed. This embodiment further illustrates that the light source  708  may include a plurality of LEDs that are not necessarily arranged in linear rows. 
     Referring to  FIG.  11   , a configuration  800  for surgical deployment is illustrated that includes a plurality of light emitting elements  802 A- 802 E, which may be similar to the other light emitting elements  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  described herein. In the configuration shown, the light emitting elements  802 A- 802 E include, respectively, light sources  808 A- 808 E. The configuration  800  illustrates that the plurality of light emitting elements  802 A- 802 E may be arranged along a surgical area in this exemplary orientation shown in order to provide focused illumination  818  to a particular portion of a surgical area. As described herein, the lighted surgical light emitting elements  802 A- 802 E may be arranged to provide columnated and directed light towards a point of focus. Light may emit from only one side of a light emitting element of the light emitting elements  802 A- 802 E, or may emit from both sides. The flexible and convenient predetermined arrangement or manner in which the light emitting elements  802 A- 802 E may be oriented (and shifted or moved) may accommodate focused light in a specific direction, and may also accommodate broader illumination as desired. In addition, the plurality of light emitting elements  802 A- 802 E may be arranged as shown (or in other configurations) to provide a fluid-tight barrier around a surgical area. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  12 A- 12 B  and  FIGS.  13 A- 13 B , various possible electrical characteristics that may be implemented for any one of the embodiments of the light emitting elements  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  702 ,  802  described are illustrated. Specifically,  FIG.  12 A  illustrates an exemplary mask layout  900  for a light emitting element  902 . The light emitting element  902  defines a substrate  906  that includes electrical components  911  such as a plurality of resistors, capacitors, a reed switch and one or more of an LED formed and/or mounted along the substrate  906 . In one implementation, the electrical components  911  include a 470 k resistor (0201)—3 each (ea); a 1M resistor (0201)—1 ea; a 10 k resistor (0201)—1 ea; a 1 uF capacitor (0201)—1 ea; a reed switch—1 ea; a white LED (0201)—2 or 4 ea, a PMOS—1 ea; and an NMOS—2 ea. In some embodiments, the various electrical components  911  may be defined by conductive or copper (Cu) lines  916  formed along the substrate  906 . The substrate  906  may further be coupled to a battery  914  as indicated. Referencing  FIG.  12 B , the Cu lines  916  formed along the substrate  906  may generally define a diameter of approximately 18 micrometers. As further indicated, in some embodiments, the polyimide film defining the substrate  906  may be 25 micrometers in diameter, and the light emitting element  902  may be approximately 100 micrometers in diameter. It should be understood that the mask layout  900  may be used with any of the light emitting elements  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  702 ,  802 ,  902  described herein. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  13 A and  13 B , schematic diagrams  950 A and  950 B are illustrated to indicate possible engagement of various electrical components when an LED or other light source of a light emitting element (according to any of the embodiments herein) is turned on or off according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Specifically, Table 1 describes the various electrical components of the schematic diagram  950 A when LEDs are turned on. 
     
       
         
           
               
               
             
               
                   
                 TABLE 1 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 LEDS ON 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
            
               
                 1. 
                 C1 stored high voltage 
               
               
                 2. 
                 Reed switch enable with magnet 
               
               
                 3. 
                 NMOS2 turns on, LEDs turn on 
               
               
                 4. 
                 PMOS turns on 
               
               
                 5. 
                 NMOS1 turns on 
               
               
                 6. 
                 C1 discharged to low voltage 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     The following Table 2 may describe engagement of various electrical components of the schematic diagram  950 B when LEDs are turned off. 
     
       
         
           
               
               
             
               
                   
                 TABLE 2 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 LEDS OFF 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
            
               
                 1. 
                 C1 stored low voltage 
               
               
                 2. 
                 Reed switch enable with magnet 
               
               
                 3. 
                 NMOS2 turns off, LEDs turn off 
               
               
                 4. 
                 PMOS turns off 
               
               
                 5. 
                 NMOS1 turns off 
               
               
                 6. 
                 C1 charged to high voltage (3 to 9 V battery) 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     It should be understood that the schematic diagrams  950 A and  950 B may be used with any of the light emitting elements  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  702 ,  802 ,  902  described herein. 
       FIGS.  14 A- 14 D  illustrate one possible process flow of forming a light emitting element similar to the light emitting elements  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  702 ,  802 ,  902  described herein. In  FIG.  14 A , a first configuration  1002 A is shown, illustrating a substrate  1006  which may be formed with polyimide film and be flexible or deformable as described herein. As indicated, a plurality of electrical components  1007  may be soldered or otherwise formed along the substrate  1006 . The electrical components  1007  may include the components described in  FIG.  12 A  or  FIGS.  13 A- 13 B , although the present disclosure is not limited in this regard. 
     Referencing a second configuration  1002 B shown in  FIG.  14 B , one or more SMD LEDs  1008  or other light sources may be mounted to the substrate  1006 . Electrical wires  1009  may be electrically coupled to the SMD LEDs  1008  to form additional electrical connections as further described herein. In some embodiments, the SMD LEDs  1008  may be mounted to the substrate  1006 , and the SMD LEDs  1008  may take the form of any of the embodiments of a light source as described herein. As further shown, a reed switch  1011  defined by the electrical components  1007  may be formed or mounted to the substrate  1006  and electrically coupled to the SMD LEDs  1008 . 
     Referencing a third configuration  1002 C shown in  FIG.  14 C , a surgical patty  1012  may be provided, and cut at least partially to define a first portion  1012 A and a second portion  1012 B of the patty  1012 . Using forceps  1014  or other suitable tool, the substrate  1006  may be disposed along a surface of the first portion  1012 A of the patty  1012  as indicated. In some embodiments, an adhesive (not shown) may be applied to maintain the substrate  1006  in a stationary position relative to the first portion  1012 A of the patty  1012 . As further shown, the electrical wires  1009  extend from the substrate  1006  and remain accessible for electrical connections. 
     Referring a fourth configuration  1002 D shown in  FIG.  14 D , the first portion  1012 A and the second portion  1012 B of the patty  1012  may be bonded together to encapsulate the substrate  1006  (including the SMD LEDs  1008 ) within the patty  1012  to form a light emitting element  1019  similar to the other light emitting elements described herein. In this manner, the patty  1012  provides an outer layer (similar to the embodiments of an outer layer described herein) such that the substrate  1006  is fully insulated from e.g., bodily fluids or other possible contaminants. It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to implementing a surgical patty as described with this embodiment and that the outer layer  110 ,  210 ,  310 ,  410 , and  510  may be formed without a surgical patty. For example, the outer layer  110 ,  210 ,  310 ,  410 , and  510  may be formed using deposition, sputtering, etching, chemical vapor deposition, or otherwise woven about the respective substrates and light sources. Alternatively, in other embodiments, a surgical patty may be implemented as one portion of the outer layer  110 ,  210 ,  310 ,  410 , and  510 . 
     As further indicated, the electrical wires  1009  may be connected to a power supply  1016  which may include a battery, USB connector, plug, or other suitable power source. During deployment, the SMD LEDs  1008  of the light emitting element  1019  may be engaged and illuminated by passing a magnet  1020  over the light emitting element  1019 , thereby activating the reed switch  1011  defined among the electrical components  1007  to draw power from the power supply  1016 . Other mechanisms for activating the SMD LEDs  1008  are contemplated and described above. In some embodiments, the light emitting element  1019  as assembled weighs approximately 0.8 grams. 
     It should be understood from the foregoing that, while particular embodiments have been illustrated and described, various modifications can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications are within the scope and teachings of this invention as defined in the claims appended hereto.