Systems, apparatuses, and methods are disclosed that include an optical fiber adapted to emit light along an axial length of an exterior cylindrical surface of the optical fiber. The optical fiber may emit the axially-emitted light over a narrow radial angle δ, such that the axially-emitted light functions in a manner similar to a slit lamp to enhance visibility of nearly transparent structures within the eye. The axially-emitted light may be produced such that no portion of the light is directed in a proximal direction, thereby preventing a portion of the light from being directed at a surgeon.
