Abstract: Apparatus and method for laser surgery in which laser energy, pulsed or continuous, is focussed to a focus spot of ten to thirty microns which is located within tissue, or the like to cause highly localized heating. The pulsed radiation is in the TEM(oo) mode, has a wavelength of approximately 1064 nanometer, the pulses being not in excess of 100 nanoseconds and the pulse rate being approximately 2000 per second. Where the laser beam is continuous or pulsed, it has a wavelength of approximately 1400 to 1800 nanometer, or in photoablative modes, having a wavelength of 190 to about 300 nanometers. The focus spot may be caused to move relative to the axis of a handpiece; and to liquid may flow across the exposure site to remove debris.

Abstract: A laser delivery system comprises a light weight hollow boom having a bearing intermediate its ends which permits the distal end of the boom to move longitudinally and rotationally relative to the proximal end of the boom. The bearing supports the distal end without supporting physical contact, e.g. by a layer of fluid. The proximal end of the boom is carried by a boom support for movement about two axes, and includes a fork journalled in a base. In one embodiment, the shaft has a portion offset from the axis thereof, and a beam direction changer, such as a prism, is located along the shaft axis between spaced bearings journalling the shaft and carried by the base. In a second embodiment, a light conducting passage extends completely through the shaft. A handpiece is connected to the distal end of the boom for rotation about the boom axis.