Embedded Files
The final tool mimics the curvature of the orbital socket and eyeball of an average adult human, with a radius of curvature slightly larger than 12mm. The tool is able to retract orbital tissue to gain access to the optic nerve by coasting along the top of the eyeball and then holding the tissue away by pushing it to the edges of the orbit. With this design, only two tools are required to successfully facilitate access to the optic nerve, as opposed to the original three to four malleable retractors. This also means that with this new tool design, the presence of only one nurse in addition to the surgeon is required, whereas at least two additional nurses need to be present when using the malleable retractors.
The final tool design is presented with two options. One of the options is to manufacture the tool out of stainless steel, which is sterilizable and reusable after every operation. The stainless steel option design was chosen in efforts to curb excess medical waste as well as align with common medical standards. The second option is to manufacture the tool out of biocompatible resin, which is disposed after every operation. However, this option has a tear-drop shape channel that is home to a fiber optic light source that illuminates the surgical area. With both options, the head of the tool is designed to mirror the geometry of the eye socket to aid in the ease of pushing away orbital fat and accessing the optic nerve. The notch at the tip of the head will be able to isolate the optic nerve, making it easier for surgeons to successfully operate on the optic nerve.
Final Printed 316L Stainless Steel Tool
Final Prototype of Disposable Tool with Fiber Optics
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