Enabling the Impossible: ACQUANDAS Microfabrication Technology for Ophthalmic Innovation

Dr. Rodrigo Lima de Miranda ACQUANDAS GmbH

Introduction

The field of ophthalmic surgery has witnessed a continuous trend toward miniaturization and the use of super-elastic Nitinol or titanium precision components, necessitating instruments that can manipulate delicate eye tissues with minimal trauma. Traditional micro-instruments made of stainless steel or polymers often fall short in flexibility, durability, and miniaturization. ACQUANDAS’ patterned Nitinol microtools and Ti Grade 23 (Titanium alloy) represent a breakthrough in this field, providing exceptional elasticity, biocompatibility, and ultra-fine structuring—paving the way for a new generation of advanced ophthalmic surgical devices.

Material Advantages of Nitinol and Ti Grade 23 in Ophthalmology

Nitinol (NiTi) and Ti Grade 23 (Titanium alloy) are advanced materials with unique properties that make them ideal for microsurgical ophthalmic applications. These materials offer:

• Superior flexibility – Allows tools to bend and return to their original shape without breaking.
• Biocompatibility – Both materials are FDA-approved and widely used in medical implants.
• High fatigue resistance – Ensures long-term durability of microtools.
• Micro structuring capability – Enables complex tool geometries with sub-micron precision.
• Integration of sensors and freeform 3D membranes – These materials allow the possibility of embedding micro-electronic sensors and ultra-thin freeform 3D membranes for real-time feedback and enhanced surgical precision.

Applications for Ophthalmic Surgery

1. Micro Hooks & Graspers for Delicate Tissue Manipulation

In procedures such as vitreoretinal surgery, surgeons must manipulate fragile retinal membranes with extreme precision. Nitinol and Ti Grade 23 micro-hooks and graspers provide:

• Ultra-fine tips (<50 μm) that minimize tissue damage.
• Super-elasticity ensures smooth and controlled handling.
• High-resolution gripping structures that prevent tissue slippage.

2. Precision Blades & Cutters for Capsulotomy & Corneal Incisions

Capsulotomy and other anterior segment procedures require precise incisions with minimal collateral damage. Nitinol and Titanium-based micro scalpels and serrated blades provide:

• Sharper and thinner cutting edges than stainless steel tools.
• Self-expanding properties for easy insertion through micro-incisions.
• Customized geometries for various ophthalmic procedures (e.g., femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery).

3. Micromanipulation Probes for Diagnostics and Surgical Assistance

Nitinol and Ti Grade 23 microprobes can be used in optical coherence tomography (OCT)-guided surgery and other high-precision diagnostic techniques. These probes:

• Provide high-precision tissue interaction at the microscale.
• Maintain consistent performance over repeated use due to shape-memory properties.
• Enable electrical integration for embedded sensors, enhancing diagnostic and surgical outcomes.

Manufacturing Innovation by ACQUANDAS

ACQUANDAS GmbH leverages state-of-the-art thin-film microfabrication to produce ultra-precise Nitinol and Ti Grade 23 components with:

• High geometric complexity – Custom-designed microtools with intricate structures.
• Scalability – Mass production with consistent quality at cost-effective rates.
• Customization – Tailored solutions for medical device manufacturers.
• Sensor and freeform 3D Membrane Integration – Advanced microfabrication techniques allow for the seamless integration of micro-electronic sensors and ultra-thin freeform 3D membranes, enhancing tool functionality.

With manufacturing tolerances down to the micron level, ACQUANDAS provides next-generation solutions for ophthalmic micro-device innovation.

Conclusion

The integration of Nitinol thin-film and Ti Grade 23 microtools in ophthalmic surgery represents a transformative step toward more precise, less invasive, and highly durable surgical instruments and easy integration with existing instrument platforms. By enabling superior miniaturization, increased durability, sensor integration, and customized designs, ACQUANDAS empowers ophthalmic device manufacturers to push the boundaries of innovation.

For inquiries and collaboration opportunities, contact us at:

ACQUANDAS GmbH

Email: [email protected]

Website: acquandas.com