Phacoemulssification Needle Tips
A phacoemulsification needle has tip geometries configured to operate efficiently in both the longitudinal and torsional modes. In one variation, the needle tip has a sharpened edge formed on at least a portion of the needle lip. In other variations the lip geopmetry is selected to create cutting surfaces in both the torsional and longitudinal directions.
1 . A phacoemulsification needle for use with a handpiece capable of imparting to said needle a longitudinal motion or a torsional motion, said needle comprising:
a needle body having a proximal end and a distal end,
said needle body having a central passageway;
a needle mount formed at said proximal end,
said needle mount adapted to attach said needle to said handpiece;
a needle tip formed at said distal end,
said needle tip having an inner surface and an outer surface;
said inner and outer surfaces terminating at a lip,
said lip defining a needle mouth communicating with said central passageway;
at least a portion of said lip formed to create an edge.
2 . The apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said edge is formed on said lip midway between said inner and outer surfaces.
3 . The apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said edge is formed on said lip at and coextensive with said outer surface.