Abstract

SO.09.03

OcuLED – an innovation in vitreoretinal illumination

Stefan Dithmar1, Alexandra Hoeh1, Roman Amberger2, Mira Ruppenstein1, Thomas Ach1
1Universitäts-Augenklinik Würzburg, 2Kirchhoff-Institut für Physik, Heidelberg

Objective
The illuminators which are used nowadays in vitreoretinal surgery to illuminate the inside of the eye consist of an external light source and a fiber optic. Now, we are able to introduce a new advanced version with an integrated light source. This light source is embedded in the handpiece of the fibre optic making a separate illuminator unnecessary.
Methods
We analyzed OcuLED, a prototype of a light probe made by GEUDER®. Embedded into the handpiece of this probe is a light-emitting diode (LED) supported by an external power source. Determined were wavelength (Spectrometer, Avantes, USA), maximum radiant power (Radiometer, LaserProbe, USA) and maximum irradiation. The results were compared with six commercial illuminators. Handling of the prototype was evaluated.
Results
OcuLED works with a white light spectrum LED and is powered externally with adjustable current (0 – 350mA). Due to the space-saving LED system, the OcuLED handpiece has the same size as conventional handpieces and handling does not differ from currently used light probes. Maximum of wavelength spectrum is at 550nm and a second peak is at 450nm. Compared to other light sources, the rate of blue light is low. In comparison to commercial illuminators, there is no significant difference regarding maximum irradiance. OcuLED is a sterile, single-use product and will be available in 20 Gauge, 23 Gauge and 25 Gauge.
Conclusions
Using LED technology makes it possible to decrease the size of illuminators used in intravitreal surgery considerably. Advantages of integrating the illuminator into the handpiece of light probe are: Additional light sources are not necessary any more. Light probes are smaller, therefore portable and most of all, cheaper than commercial illuminators.

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