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why was the laserphaco probe invented

by Francis Ortiz Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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In 1981, Bath conceived of a novel approach to cataract surgery. The laserphaco probe is a tool that uses a tiny laser to safely vaporize cataracts in a patient's eye. Once the probe has removed the cataract, a surgeon is then able to remove the lens of the eye and insert a replacement.

Full Answer

What is the laserphaco probe?

In 1981, Bath began working on her most well-known invention: the Laserphaco Probe (1986). Harnessing laser technology, the device created a less painful and more precise treatment of cataracts.

What is the history of laserphaco?

The laserphaco probe is now used internationally to treat the cataract eye disease. The French ophthalmologist Jacques Daviel (1696–1762) was the first modern European physician to successfully extract cataracts from the eye. He performed the first extracapsular cataract extraction on April 8, 1747.

What is laserphaco cataract surgery?

In 1981, Bath conceived of a novel approach to cataract surgery. The laserphaco probe is a tool that uses a tiny laser to safely vaporize cataracts in a patient’s eye. Once the probe has removed the cataract, a surgeon is then able to remove the lens of the eye and insert a replacement.

When was the minimally invasive device first used in Europe?

By the year 2000, her minimally invasive device was used in Europe and throughout Asia. In an interview with the National Institutes of Health, Bath explained that her greatest passion was to fight blindness.

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Why did Patricia Bath invent the Laserphaco Probe?

Bath was also a laser scientist and inventor. Her interest, experience, and research on cataracts lead to her invention of a new device and method to remove cataracts—the laserphaco probe. When she first conceived of the device in 1981, her idea was more advanced than the technology available at the time.

What was the impact of the Laserphaco Probe?

Invention of the Laserphaco probe Bath's impact on eye surgery as one of her greatest achievements. Her invention of the Laserphaco probe and development of a new technique revolutionized cataract removal surgery. Cataracts are cloudy areas that form in the eye lenses, resulting in blurred vision.

How did the Laserphaco Probe change the world?

Bath was the first African American woman doctor to patent a medical device, the Laserphaco Probe for the treatment of cataracts, which has helped restore or improve vision to millions of patients worldwide—making it one of the most important developments in the field of ophthalmology.

What is something unique about the inventor of the Laserphaco Probe?

Dr. Bath was also a laser scientist and inventor. Her interest, experience, and research on cataracts lead to her invention of a new device and method to remove cataracts—the laserphaco probe. When she first conceived of the device in 1981, her idea was more advanced than the technology available at the time.

Is the Laserphaco probe still used?

Today, the Laserphaco Probe is used on a global scale, in hospitals all over the world. It has restored sight to many individuals whom were deemed blind before this invention.

Do we still use the Laserphaco?

In fact, the laserphaco probe is still used to treat cataracts today. Dr. Bath also founded the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness in Washington, D.C., a non-profit advocacy organization.

How is Laserphaco used today?

The laserphaco probe is a tool that uses a tiny laser to safely vaporize cataracts in a patient's eye. Once the probe has removed the cataract, a surgeon is then able to remove the lens of the eye and insert a replacement.

Who invented eye surgery?

Peyman (born 1 January 1937) is an ophthalmologist, retina surgeon, and inventor. He is best known for his invention of LASIK eye surgery, a vision correction procedure designed to allow people to see clearly without glasses.

Who invented Laserphaco?

Patricia BathLaserphaco / InventorPatricia Era Bath was an American ophthalmologist, inventor, humanitarian, and academic. She invented an improved device for laser cataract surgery. Her invention was called Laserphaco Probe, which she patented in 1986. Wikipedia

Who invented cataract surgery?

The first true cataract extraction was performed in 1747, in Paris, by the French surgeon Jacques Daviel. His procedure was more effective than couching, with an overall success rate of 50%.

How do you pronounce Laserphaco probe?

0:020:43How To Pronounce Laserphaco Probe - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLaser freckle probe laser freckle probe laser freckle probe laser factor probe laser freckle probeMoreLaser freckle probe laser freckle probe laser freckle probe laser factor probe laser freckle probe laser factor probe laser freckle probe.

Who invented the probe?

Patricia BathLaserphaco / Inventor

How does a laser lens work?

The laser first creates tiny incisions in the eye. Then, the optical laser fiber probe enters through the incision and vaporizes the lens containing the cataract. The probe extracts this lens, making way for the insertion of a replacement lens.

Who founded the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness?

In 1976, Dr. Bath co-founded the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness. The nonprofit organization strive to prevent blindness and provide primary care for malnourished, at-risk populations according to their principle that “eyesight is a basic human right.”.

Early Achievements

Bath was born in Harlem, New York, on Nov. 4, 1942, to Rupert and Gladys Bath, both of whom were supportive and believed in the importance of education. From an early age, she developed a love of science and in high school became the editor of her school’s science paper.

Research, Breakthroughs and Advocacy

During her internship at Columbia, Bath realized that many of the Black patients she saw were far more likely to have glaucoma and suffered from a higher degree of blindness. In a seminal paper published in 1976, she documented her findings and argued that the reason for this disparity had to do with a lack of access to ophthalmic care.

Learn More About Our World-Changing Inductees

To explore more stories about how our Hall of Famers developed some of the world’s most impactful inventions, we invite you to visit our blog.

What inventions did Garrett Morgan make?

Garrett Morgan blazed a trail for African American inventors with his patents, including those for a hair-straightening product, a breathing device, a revamped sewing machine and an improved traffic signal.

Who was the first African American woman to receive a patent for a medical invention?

In 1988, Patricia Bath became the first African American female doctor to receive a patent for a medical invention.

Who was the first African American to complete a residency in ophthalmology?

Patricia Bath. Patricia Bath was the first African American to complete a residency in ophthalmology and the first African American female doctor to receive a medical patent. She invented the Laserphaco Probe for cataract treatment in 1986.

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Early Achievements

Research, Breakthroughs and Advocacy

  • During her internship at Columbia, Bath realized that many of the Black patients she saw were far more likely to have glaucoma and suffered from a higher degree of blindness. In a seminal paper published in 1976, she documented her findings and argued that the reason for this disparity had to do with a lack of access to ophthalmic care. In response...
See more on invent.org

Learn More About Our World-Changing Inductees

  • To explore more stories about how our Hall of Famers developed some of the world’s most impactful inventions, we invite you to visit our blog.
See more on invent.org

1.Dr. Patricia Bath inventor of the Laserphaco Probe, a tool …

Url:https://www.awis.org/historical-women/dr-patricia-bath/

25 hours ago  · Bath's invention of the Cataract Laserphaco Probe was designed to utilize laser technology in order to painlessly eliminate cataracts from patients in an efficient and timely manner. The laserphaco probe is now used internationally to treat the cataract eye disease.

2.What do we know about Dr. Patricia Bath, the inventor of …

Url:https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dr-patricia-bath-the-expert-who-revolutionized-cataract-surgery

3 hours ago Dr. Patricia Bath was an ophthalmologist known for inventing the Laserphaco Probe, a tool used in cataract surgery. After obtaining a medical degree from Howard University, she attended Columbia University and was the first African American to complete an ophthalmology residency program (1973). She was the first woman to chair an ophthalmology residency program (1983).

3.Patricia Bath and the Gift of Sight - National Inventors …

Url:https://www.invent.org/blog/inventors/patricia-bath-laserphaco-probe

31 hours ago Bath's research into cataracts led her to invent a new device and method to remove cataracts. She started working on the Laserphaco probe in 1981. The Laserphaco probe is a less invasive, more precise and less risky device used to correct cataracts. Back then, this device was much more advanced than the technology used at that time.

4.Innovative Lives : The Right To Sight: Patricia Bath

Url:https://invention.si.edu/innovative-lives-right-sight-patricia-bath

23 hours ago  · Bath's invention of the Cataract Laserphaco Probe was designed to utilize laser technology in order to painlessly eliminate cataracts from patients in an efficient and timely manner. The laserphaco probe is now used internationally to treat the cataract eye disease.

5.Patricia Bath - Inventions, Accomplishments & Facts

Url:https://www.biography.com/scientist/patricia-bath

8 hours ago  · Patricia Bath invented the Laserphaco Probe. What does the laserphaco probe do? The laser energy of the laserphaco probe vaporizers or 'phacoblates' the cataract and lens matter.

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