Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus for guiding a high speed liquid jet used in forming ophthalmic incisions includes an instrument body having an elongated rectangular portion and a tapered end portion. A cylindrical housing is secured to the tapered end, and is provided with a stepped opening extending axially therethrough. A jet carrier includes a longitudinally extending body, and a pair of high precision crossed roller slides join the carrier and body to permit lateral translation of the jet carrier. A micro-motor assembly secured within the rectangular body portion is joined to a pinion gear which engages a rack gear joined to the jet carrier to drive the jet carrier in lateral translation. The jet carrier includes a proximal connector for a high pressure fluid hose, and a jet nozzle assembly extending from the distal end. A plurality of guide members are provided, all having common structural features adapted to engage the stepped opening of the distal end of the instrument body. Each guide member includes a generally cylindrical body and a central portion comprised of a reticle and applanation plate, with differing guide members having applanation plates of various thicknesses. The guide member may include an adaptive applanator member that is selectively variably curved. The cylindrical body also includes an annular vacuum suction ring to selectively secure the device on the eye. The guide member has a jet slot extending in the sidewall thereof to receive the jet nozzle.

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First Claim