Hybrid 2-port vitrectomy and combined treatment and infusion probe

Abstract

The present disclosure generally relates to microsurgical instruments for ophthalmic surgical procedures, and more particularly, methods and microsurgical instruments for vitreoretinal procedures. In certain embodiments described herein, a vitreoretinal procedure is performed utilizing two surgical instruments: 1) a treatment instrument configured to a) treat a target ophthalmic tissue (e.g., sever and remove the vitreous body), and b) infuse fluid into the intraocular space to maintain intraocular pressure (IOP); and 2) an illumination probe for providing illumination within the intraocular space. The combined treatment and infusion functionalities of the treatment instrument eliminate the need for a separate infusion cannula, thus enabling the vitreoretinal procedure to be performed with only two instruments and reducing the number of incisions made in the eye. Additionally, utilization of two instruments facilitates easier manipulation of the eye by a surgeon, as one of the two instruments can be used to 'steer' the eye during the procedure.