Structural manipulation of microcone arrays for microsurgical modification of ophthalmic tissues

Journal Article · Wed Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 2014 · Journal of Medical Devices

OSTI ID:1150863

Schaeffer, Daniel A ^[1]; Wing, Benjamin J ^[1]; Hendricks, Troy R ^[1]; Bennett, Daniel ^[2]; Chaum, Edward ^[3]; Simpson, John T ^[1]

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1. ORNL
2. University of Tennessee (UT) Health Science Center, Memphis
3. University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK)

The purpose of this study was to control the size and shape of fabricated glass microcone arrays for use in optical surgery instruments by varying the fiber drawing and etching methods. The spacing of the cones is controlled via the drawing process while the etching process controls the cone height-to-base ratio. The device viability was tested by imprinting, and subsequent staining, of low-density polyethylene and porcine corneas, resulting in a consistent patterned structure of micron-sized perforations. After imprint, the device was examined and no evidence of microcone fracture or over-penetration was present during the course of these experiments. This research promises to lead to advances in optical surgery for the treatment of recurrent corneal erosions, providing quicker, safer, and more cost-effective procedures with decreased risk of vision loss and scarring associated with current procedures such as anterior stromal puncture. The ease of procedure and micron sized incisions could potentially replace current techniques and provide a viable treatment alternative for recurrent corneal erosions in the visual axis.

• Research Organization: Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: Work for Others (WFO)
• DOE Contract Number: DE-AC05-00OR22725
• OSTI ID: 1150863
• Journal Information: Journal of Medical Devices, Vol. 8, Issue 3
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English