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Abstract

A hollow needle for use as an ultrasonic probe for crushing lenses during ophthalmic surgery. The needle has a suction channel extending toward the distal end into a radially expanding segment. The segment having a plurality of coaxial bores having stepped diameters forming ring shoulders. The bores extend from the distal end into the hollow needle. A plurality of tetrahedrally-shaped cuts are arranged around the circumference of at least one of the ring shoulders or the distal end of the needle. The cuts substantially enlarge the reflecting surface area for the ultrasonic waves and thereby permit intensive admission of ultrasound to the operative tissue. The ring shoulders may be additionally or alternatively be undercut for obtaining additional reflecting surfaces.

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First Claim