| abstract |
A cassette configuration, operative parts of which may be disposable or resterilizable, is configured with an adapter that may be mounted within the cassette receiving portal of a console that uses a peristaltic pump spaced apart from actuator and vent controls to engage the lower end wall of a cassette. The adapter is asymmetrically mounted in the available space, and allows a tubing loop from one side of a cassette inserted under it to be threaded through the peristaltic pump and to be seated in a bore in the adapter on the opposite side. A lower edge of the cassette fits into an interface slot in the console, and the interior tubing configuration enables clamping of irrigation and vent lines, while providing aspiration and irrigation flows to and from a handpiece. Within the cassette or in the console, flow control elements are provided to enable alternative venting of either air or fluid into the aspiration system to prevent excessive suction at the operative site. At the same time, the flow system and the pressure sensing and venting arrangement are configured to allow resterilization of the cassette if desired. |