Patient interface device for ophthalmic laser procedures
A patient interface device for use with a laser surgery apparatus, the device including an upper assembly and a lower assembly attached to the upper assembly. The device including a spherical-like object that engages the lower assembly so that an enclosed volume is defined between the spherical-like object, the lower assembly and the upper assembly, wherein a first liquid substantially fills the enclosed volume. The device further including a channel that contains a second fluid that is exposed to ambient atmosphere.
1. A patient interface device for use with a laser surgery apparatus, the device comprising:
a) an upper assembly and a lower assembly;
b) the upper assembly configured to be attached to a laser surgery device; the upper assembly comprising a ring for engaging the lower assembly;
c) the lower assembly comprising a handle for positioning the lower assembly on an eye, and an annular platform; wherein the annular platform defines a conical shaped wall for receiving the upper assembly, and a suction ring for engaging an eye; and,
d) the suction ring comprising a suction ring wall having an inner surface, wherein the suction ring wall defines in cross section an inverted J-shape;
e) wherein the suction ring comprises a vacuum port; and further comprising a suction enhancer, wherein the suction enhancer is positioned adjacent the inner surface of the suction ring wall; whereby in operation the suction enhancer prevents blocking of the vacuum port.
2. A patient interface device for use with a laser surgery apparatus, the device comprising:
a) an upper assembly and a lower assembly;
b) the upper assembly configured to be attached to a laser surgery device; the upper assembly comprising a ring for engaging the lower assembly;
c) the lower assembly comprising a handle for positioning the lower assembly on an eye, and an annular platform; wherein the annular platform defines a conical shaped wall for receiving the upper assembly, and a suction ring for engaging an eye; and,
d) the suction ring comprising a suction ring wall having an inner surface, wherein the suction ring wall defines in cross section an inverted J-shape;
e) wherein the suction ring comprises a vacuum port; and further comprising a suction enhancer, wherein the suction enhancer is positioned adjacent the inner surface of the suction ring wall; whereby in operation the suction enhancer prevents blocking of the vacuum port.
3. A patient interface device for use with a laser surgery apparatus, the device comprising:
a. an upper assembly;
b. a lower assembly configured for attachment to the upper assembly, wherein upon attachment the upper assembly and the lower assembly define a volume of space, wherein the lower assembly comprises:
i. a suction ring, the suction ring comprising a wall having an inner surface;
ii. a suction enhancer, wherein the suction enhancer is positioned adjacent the inner surface of the wall; and,
iii. a vacuum port formed in the lower assembly, wherein the vacuum port defines an opening that is configured for fluid communication with a vacuum source and is in fluid communication with the suction ring;
iv. whereby in operation the suction enhancer prevents blocking of the vacuum port.