Micro-optic adapters and tips for surgical illumination fibers

Abstract

A microstructure optical adapter or tip according to the present disclosure may incorporate precision micro structure optical components engaging the input or output end of light energy delivery devices for customized light delivery of the light energy. The incorporation of precision micro structure optical components in injection molded plastic or glass parts will allow for inexpensive modification of the output light while also serving to protect the end of the illumination device. The micro structure optical components may also be incorporated in an adapter to tailor the light energy to the subsequent device.

We claim: 
     
         1 . A method for illuminating a surgical field, said method comprising:
 providing an optical fiber and an optical tip;   coupling the optical fiber with the optical cap;   delivering light form the optical fiber to the optical tip; and   illuminating the surgical field with light from the optical tip.   
     
     
         2 . A surgical illumination system for illuminating a surgical field, said system comprising:
 an optical fiber; and   an optical tip coupled to the optical fiber, wherein light passes through the optical fiber to the optical tip, and   wherein the light is directed from the optical tip to the surgical field.