Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for shortening hairs (3), in particular growing from human skin (5). The device (1) has a laser source (7) for generating a laser beam (9) during a predetermined pulse time, an optical system (15) for focusing the laser beam into a focal spot (25), and a laser beam manipulator (17) for positioning the focal spot in a target position. According to the invention, a dimension of the focal spot (25) and a power of the generated laser beam (9) are such that, in the focal spot (25), the laser beam has a power density which is above a characteristic threshold value for hair tissue above which, for the predetermined pulse time, a laser induced optical breakdown (LIOB) phenomenon occurs in the hair tissue. The LIOB phenomenon results in a number of mechanical effects in the hair tissue, such as cavitation and the generation of shock waves, which damage the hair (3) in positions surrounding the position in which the LIOB phenomenon occurs.

Abstract: System and method for identifying a component, such as an optical probe or pneumatic scissors, of an ophthalmic surgical device. A component of a surgical device includes an identifier, such as a RFID tag. Data from the RFID tag is transmitted to a RFID reader in the device. A controller determines whether the component corresponding to the received data is operable with the surgical device based on criteria, such as whether the received data is an authorized code that matches data stored in memory or whether the received data solves or satisfies an algorithm. The authorized codes are selected from a larger set of available codes. The controller enables or disables the operation of the device with the component based on whether the criteria is satisfied, the number of uses of the component, an amount of time that has passed since the component has been used, or a geographic location.

Abstract: A surgical tool for use as an ablation device in a surgical operation including: an ablation module output configured to ablate a volume of material at a surgical site to form an ablated volume; a control module arranged to receive information indicative of the position of the surgical site; and a fluid output adapted to deliver fluid to the surgical site during a surgical operation such that at least part of the ablated volume is filled with fluid and the fluid is in direct contact with at least part of the surgical site. The control module is operable to control the flow rate of fluid delivered by the fluid output in response to the received information in order to control the position of the surgical site.

Abstract: A surgical console display operable to provide a visual indication of status of a surgical laser or other surgical instrument or peripheral device coupled to the surgical console is provided in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. This facilitates the surgeon's management of a surgical procedure where a multitude of tasks and surgical control equipment are manipulated during an ocular surgery. The surgical console includes a processing module, an external interface, and a user interface having a display screen. The display screen specifically allows operators to view a status of peripheral devices and/or surgical instruments such as but not limited to a surgical laser.

Abstract: A method and system to create and acoustically manipulate without destroying a microbubble which, in biological applications, can manipulate structures such as cells and subcellular structures at a nanoscopic scale.

Abstract: A photoacoustic flow cytometry (PAFC) device for the in vivo detection of cells circulating in blood or lymphatic vessels is described. Ultrasound transducers attached to the skin of an organism detect the photoacoustic ultrasound waves emitted by target objects in response to their illumination by at least one pulse of laser energy delivered using at least one wavelength. The wavelengths of the laser light pulse may be varied to optimize the absorption of the laser energy by the target object. Target objects detected by the device may be unlabelled biological cells or cell products, contrast agents, or biological cells labeled with one or more contrast agents.

Abstract: A system and method for authenticating an optical fiber for use with a medical laser system includes a medical laser unit, an optical fiber, and a memory device. The laser unit is typically specific to a certain medical procedure and is under the operation of a control system. The optical fiber is operably coupled to the laser unit and includes a probe tip for position proximate laser-targeted tissue. The memory device is associated with the optical fiber, e.g., as an RFID tag embedded in fiber or a smart card operational with the fiber, and is configured to allow the control system of the laser unit to access information embedded in the memory device so that the optical fiber may be authenticated as suitable to operate with the laser unit.

Abstract: A temperature of a laser treatment area is monitored and an output of a laser is controlled or modulated to prevent damage resulting from thermal runaway or burn back. The detector may be positioned proximate or at a distal end of the fiber, and may be in the form of a detector arranged to detect leakage of higher order propagation modes from a bend in the fiber. Manual or automatic cleaning of the fiber may be initiated upon detection of overheating, either by dipping the fiber in a cleaning solution or supplying cleaning fluid to the fiber or treatment area. A fiber position detector may also be included to prevent damage when the fiber is withdrawn into an introducer or catheter.

Abstract: An interface which allows a surgeon to operate multiple surgical devices from a single input device. The input device may be a foot pedal that provides output signals to actuate a number of different surgical devices. The surgical devices may include a robotic arm, a laser, an electrocautery device, or an operating table. The interface has an input channel that is coupled to the input device and a plurality of output channels that are coupled to the surgical devices. The interface also has a select input channel which can receive input commands to switch the input channel to one of the output channels. The select channel may be coupled to a speech interface that allows the surgeon to select one of the surgical devices with a voice command. The surgeon can operate any device by providing an input command which switches the input channel to the desired output channel.

Abstract: Methods and devices for treatment of tissue which first apply a nonablative form of electromagnetic energy to a region of tissue to create a plurality of treatment zones containing coagulated tissue and subsequently apply an ablative form of electromagnetic energy to the coagulated tissue in the treatment zones in order to ablate the coagulated tissue are disclosed. These methods and devices can be used to shrink and/or tighten tissue for medical and cosmetic purposes.

Abstract: A multi-photon fluoroscopy microscope employs an electronically controlled diffraction mask to affect correcting phase adjustments in an incident waveform to allow a precise focus of the stimulating beam of light to a focal point within tissue having a varying and inhomogeneous index of refraction.

Abstract: A method for measuring at least one of an energy and a position of a pulsed laser beam, notably in an ophthalmologic excimer laser. The pulsed laser beam is intermittently directed at a sensor, which measures its energy and/or position. In addition, a device for measuring at least one of an energy and a position of a pulsed laser beam. The device includes a sensor configured to measure at least one of the energy and the position of the pulsed laser beam, and a beam deflection device, which is configured to guide the pulsed laser beam and to intermittently direct the pulsed laser beam at the sensor.

Abstract: System and methods for minimally invasive treatment of snoring are described. According to one system and method, laser energy is applied to tissue of a soft palate and/or uvula to create a pattern of multiple treatment spots in the tissue. According to another system and method, electromagnetic energy from a filament light source is impinged of soft palate and/or uvula tissue to achieve volumetric heating of the tissue. The systems and methods increase rigidity and/or reduce laxity of the tissue, and/or volumetrically reduce the tissue, thereby diminishing snoring.

Abstract: An optical hair removing device includes a light emitting unit for emitting a light and an irradiation unit for irradiating the light emitted from the light emitting unit to body hairs on a skin. Further, the optical hair removing device includes a control unit for controlling the light emission unit. The irradiation unit has a movement detection unit for detecting a movement of the irradiation unit on a skin and a contact detection unit for detecting a contact between the irradiation unit and the skin.

Abstract: An object of the invention is to provide a component concentration measuring apparatus by blood sampling by laser perforating, capable of preventing leak of an abnormal odor generated during laser perforating, and improving user's convenience. In a component concentration measuring apparatus of the invention, a slide sheet 6 in which a film is provided on the optical axis of a laser beam, and an insertion holder 7 the inside of which is hollow are inserted into a main body 2 equipped with a laser device, a focusing lens, an analyzing device that analyzes components of a body fluid by an enzyme reaction of a specimen reagent, a laser operation button 5, a display 3, a display switching button 4, a chargeable battery, and an electric circuit on which a memory that stores the operation of the laser device, analysis of component concentration by the output of the analyzing device, and analysis results is mounted.

Abstract: A surgical tool device, a kit and a method are described which provide a novel dual frequency LED/electrode scheme for use in manipulating nerve and innervated structures. The surgical tool device includes a probe assembly coupled to a handle assembly. The probe assembly has a low frequency light emitting diode (LED), a high frequency LED, and a stimulator electrode. The low frequency LED is used to promote healing and the high frequency LED is to aid in promoting a microbe free surgical area. The handle assembly has a system on a chip (SOC) electrically coupled to the low frequency LED, to the high frequency LED, and to the stimulator electrode. The kit includes the unattached components of the device and may also include an detector electrode probe along with an optional monitoring system. The method includes the steps of adjoining, affixing, attaching, and obtaining.

Abstract: A fluid conditioning system is adapted to condition the fluid used in medical and dental cutting, irrigating, evacuating, cleaning, and drilling operations. The fluid may be conditioned by adding flavors, antiseptics and/or tooth whitening agents such as peroxide, medications, and pigments. In addition to the direct benefits obtained from introduction of these agents, the laser cutting properties may be varied from the selective introduction of the various agents.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for treating human skin by means of radiation. The device comprises a housing (3) with a radiation exit opening (13). A radiation source (9) is accommodated in the housing. Radiation generated by the radiation source propagates from the radiation source towards the radiation exit opening via a radiation path (15) comprising a radiation filter having a predetermined transmission spectrum. According to the invention the radiation filter comprises a reflecting surface (23) via which the radiation propagating along the radiation path (15) is reflected. The reflecting surface has a coating which provides the reflecting surface with a reflection spectrum substantially matching the predetermined transmission spectrum. An advantage is that the reflection surface can be optimally and uniformly cooled, so that the heat generated as a result of the absorption of part of the radiation by the radiation filter can be effectively transmitted to a cooling system (25) of the device (1).

Abstract: Systems and methods of the present invention measure at least one reflecting surface of an object disposed along an optical path. In some embodiments a measured optical interference signal for each of at least three wavelengths of reflected light may be used to determine a modulation of frequency components of a Fourier series. Frequency components of a Fourier series may be transformed to spatial components that describe intensities and positions of light reflected along an optical path. Systems and methods of the present invention permit rapid measuring and may monitor corneal thickness during surgery. The invention may do so by integrating an ablation device and a measurement apparatus into a single system. An integrated scanning and monitoring system may include an ablative light source producing an ablative beam and a measurement light source producing a measurement beam.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for the ionization of living cells where an optical device (14) delivers an optical pulse having an optical field power which is modified locally by an optical field power modifying means (18) to effect ionization and destruction of living cells (16).

Abstract: Embodiments of systems and methods for an interface for providing a user with feedback are presented. Specifically, embodiments of such an interface may include a head-up display unit which is mounted on a microscope utilized by a user when performing a surgical procedure. The heads-up display unit may include an eye-piece ring which is fitted onto or in one of the eye pieces of the microscope. The heads-up unit receives data regarding one or more parameters from a surgical console or other source and produces audio or visual feedback corresponding to a desired parameter. Any visual feedback produced may then be propagated to the eye piece ring allowing a user of the microscope to obtain the feedback when performing a surgical procedure utilizing the microscope and obviating the need to look at a screen of the surgical console to obtain such feedback. Thus, feedback is provided to a user in a non-intrusive manner such that the user can obtain this feedback without distracting from a surgical procedure.

Abstract: A cosmetic treatment apparatus comprises a discharge lamp, a capacitor, and a current controller. The capacitor supplies an electric current for the discharge lamp. The current controller controls the electric current flowing from the capacitor to the discharge lamp. In a first stage of the cosmetic treatment, the current controller performs a constant current control operation. In this operation, the current flowing to the lamp does not vary with variations of the capacitor voltage. In the end stage of the treatment, the current is lower, and it decreases with the capacitor voltage.

Abstract: A system for ligating a uterine artery in a patient generally includes a suture transfer tool, suture transfer darts, and one or more sutures. Others systems and implants are described herein for treating and/or eliminating fibroids or fibrous masses in males and females.

Abstract: A laser system useful in medicine or dentistry that includes a removable fiber module that manages fiber dispensing to avoid damage to or waste of fiber.

Abstract: A laser system has a laser source generating a laser beam, wherein the laser source is adapted for medical removal of body tissue by the laser beam within a predetermined treatment contour. A guide frame in the shape of the treatment contour is provided. A scanner is provided for completely scanning a base surface of the guide frame with the laser beam, wherein the scanner is arranged between the laser source and the guide frame in a path of the laser beam.

Abstract: Penile illuminating equipment includes a plurality of light emitting diodes positioned on a mounting structure in a manner to illuminate a penis with light emitted from the diodes along the penis' length and circumference. Optionally, a penis enlargement device may be used in combination with the penile illuminating equipment.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for measuring and determining positions of light energy having wavelengths of less than (as well as equal to or greater than) 200 nm, and are particularly well suited for measuring pulsed light at ultraviolet and other wavelengths using position sensing diode (PSD) technology. An integrator may sum a total charge of a signal from the PSD. Correlations between a distribution of integrated charges among electrodes of the PSD may be non-linear, and may benefit from adjustment for different overall pulse light quantities and/or spot sizes.

Abstract: A system can be used to determine a position of a boney structure in physical space. The system can include a laser emitting device that can emit a laser beam that transmits through soft tissue and reflects off of a boney surface. The system can then determine the position of the reflection point and correlate the reflection point to image data acquired of a patient.

Abstract: An additive, preferably in the form of metal nanoparticles or nanodomains, greatly improves a laser-based method and system for inducing optical breakdown. The use of ultrashort laser pulses to induce laser-induced breakdown (LIB) in metal nanoparticles or nanocomposites makes it possible to reduce significantly the threshold laser energy required for LIB. Such nanoscale (submicron) metallic particles allows one to control the LIB process. The nanoparticles can be synthesized so as to target specific biological structures or tissues (dendrimer nanoparticles are one system for which this has been demonstrated). This opens up the possibility of performing LIB for targeted cancer treatment or microsurgery.

Abstract: A method and device is provided for high power BPH laser treatments in a doctor's office or clinic setting wherein only local anesthetics are employed, making the treatments administrable in a doctor's office or a clinic, and allowing the patient to remain conscious throughout the procedure so that the doctor can interact with the patient while administering the treatment. The BPH treatments can be administered in a single short duration, i.e., each session lasting for not more than about 45 minutes and having a lasing time within the range of about 10 minutes to about 20 minutes, thus limiting the amount of discomfort and anxiety a patient might experience. The relatively high power treatment coupled with the relatively short treatment time allows doctors to assess the results of the treatment session within minutes after completing the procedure.

Abstract: A microwave ablation probe for providing microwave energy to tissue is disclosed. The probe includes a feedline having an inner conductor, an insulating spacer and an outer conductor. The probe also includes a radiation portion having an extruded portion of the inner conductor that is centrally disposed therein. The radiation portion also includes one or more conductive disks disposed on the extruded portion of the inner conductor that defines one or more spaces and a dielectric material disposed within the spaces.

Abstract: In a laser eye treatment apparatus, a probe light source generates a secondary emitted light emanating from a treatment area of retinal tissue that is irradiated by a treatment light source. An optical detector detects the secondary emitted light. A processor statistically analyzes the secondary emitted light to determine a temperature of the treatment area of retinal tissue.

Abstract: A hair removal device (22) includes a cooling surface (34) which is used to contact the skin (6) prior to exposure to hair tissue-damaging laser light (74) passing from a radiation source (36) through a recessed window (46). The window is laterally offset from the cooling surface and is spaced apart from the cooling surface in a direction away from the patient's skin to create a gap between the window and the skin. The window preferably includes both an inner window (46) and an outer, user-replaceable window (48). The laser-pulse duration is preferably selected according to the general diameter of the hair.

Abstract: A laser apparatus is disclosed. The laser apparatus can be placed on the ground of an operation site to save precious desktop space. The laser apparatus comprises a footswitch module physically integrated or combined with the laser module for controlling the status of the laser module. The laser apparatus further comprises a miniature control unit, which can be clipped onto the pocket of the operator or be integrated or combined on the hand piece of the laser apparatus for controlling and displaying status of the laser module.

Abstract: Methods and devices for ablating portions of a tissue volume with electromagnetic radiation (EMR) to produce lattices of EMR-treated ablation islets in the tissue are disclosed, including lattices of micro-holes, micro-grooves, and other structures. Also, methods and devices for using the ablated islets are disclosed, including to deliver chromophores, filler, drugs and other substances to the tissue volume.

Abstract: Systems and methods to treat a region of a cornea of an eye having an epithelial layer disposed over a stromal layer. The system comprises a device to map a thickness of the epithelial layer over the region of the cornea to generate a map of epithelial thickness over the region, and a laser to generate a laser beam of an ablative radiation. A movable scan component is coupled to the laser to scan the laser beam over the region. A processor system is coupled to the laser and the movable scan component, and the processor system is configured to arrange pulses of laser beam to ablate the epithelial layer of the region in response to the map of epithelial thickness.

Abstract: An apparatus for treatment of a cancer or precancerous condition which includes a therapeutic light source for outputting a therapeutic light beam at a wavelength between 1.2 ?m and 1.3 ?m. This light source is preferably a laser for outputting a pulsed beam.

Abstract: A protective handle for a mobile laser unit wherein the protective handle provides protection to a front section of the mobile laser unit from damage due to bumps and other impacts as the mobile laser unit is transported between treatment locations. The protective handle simultaneously acts to protect an attached optical fiber from damage during transport by limiting a bend radius of the laser fiber. The protective handle includes a U-shaped central segment having rear and forward surfaces defining a fiber optic support structure. The protective handle is attached to the mobile laser unit such that an optical fiber connector is centered within the U-shaped central segment and the optical fiber can rest on the fiber optic support structure.

Abstract: The surgical instrument comprises a handpiece (1), associated with which is a tip (5) forming a wave guide and terminating with an operating end, intended to act on the tissues and from which a laser radiation is emitted and which receives said laser radiation from fiber optic means (4). The tip is implemented to collect the laser emission coming from a plurality of optical fibers couplable with said tip at a coupling face and to convey said laser emissions towards said operating end.

Abstract: A dermatologic treatment apparatus is disclosed which includes one or more housings with at least one housing configured for manipulation in a dermatologic treatment procedure, a light source, and an electrical circuit. The circuit energizes the light source to produce output light pulses. A light path includes an aperture through which eye-safe light pulses are propagated having properties sufficient for providing efficacious treatment. An optical diffuser is disposed along the light path to reduce the integrated radiance to an eye-safe level. The apparatus produces an output fluence not less than 4 J/cm2.

Abstract: An implantable medical device includes a light emitting circuit incorporated into an intravascular stent. The light emitting circuit emits a light to an ischemic region. The light has characteristics suitable for reliving the angina symptoms associated with ischemia.

Abstract: A method of scanning a laser beam across a set of cells includes during a first interval, causing a galvanometric scanner to scan a laser beam across a set of cells; and during a second interval, causing the galvanometric scanner to deflect the laser beam away from the set of cells. The first interval is selected to cause microcavitation in at least a portion of the cells from the set of cells.

Abstract: A treatment system (1600, 1900) is provided for traversing the alimentary tract. The system (1600, 1900) includes an ingestible capsule, which includes a gas pressurizing module (1602)) providing a gas and at least one balloon (1604, 1901) in fluid communication with the gas pressurization module (1602). The capsule further includes an exhaust channel (1610) in fluid communication with a respective balloon of the at least one balloon (1604, 1901), and a depressurizing closure member (1608) for selectively controlling flow of gas between the balloon (1604, 1901) and the ambient surroundings of the capsule. The system further includes control circuitry (906) for controlling the depressurizing closure member (1608).

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus for Near Infrared Microbial Elimination Laser Systems (NIMELS) including use with medical devices are disclosed. The medical devices can be situated in vivo. Suitable medical devices include catheters, stents, artificial joints, and the like. NIMELS methods, systems, and apparatus can apply near infrared radiant energy of certain wavelengths and dosimetries capable of impairing biological contaminants without intolerable risks and/or adverse effects to biological moieties other than a targeted biological contaminant associated with traditional approaches described in the art (e.g., loss of viability, or thermolysis). Lasers including diode lasers may be used for one or more light sources. A delivery assembly can be used to deliver the optical radiation produced by the source(s) produced to an application region that can include patient tissue. Exemplary embodiments utilize light in a range of 850 nm-900 nm and/or 905 nm-945 nm at suitable NIMELS dosimetries.

Abstract: The invention concerns an uninterruptible power supply that is used in particular with a refractive laser. A rechargeable battery is provided, whereby prior to beginning the treatment the capacity of the battery is tested to assure that it is sufficient to safely complete the treatment in the event the voltage supply is interrupted.

Abstract: The invention relates to a hair-shortening device. The device is based on the principle of laser-induced optical breakdown, wherein a laser pulse causes mechanical effects in tissue, which are used to cut the hair (20). The invention uses the insight that, when two or more such laser pulses are provided simultaneously, the mechanical effects can co-operate. This in turn allows cutting of the hair (20) with less total energy, down to about half the energy required for cases with pulses that are supplied sequentially. In one embodiment, the device comprises a laser source (2), a grating (6), and a beam manipulator (8), that aim a plurality of simultaneous focal spots (10) into a hair (20).

Abstract: Multiple site information of light intensity is obtained by application of a multiple-fibre probe in a real-time optical monitoring system. The multiple-fibre probe includes a plurality of optical fibres distributed along the length of the probe. Each optical fibre may be is switchable between the mode for transmitting optical signal into the malignant tissue and the mode for collecting the optical signal from the same tissue. Thus the numbers of the probes can be minimized for collecting multiple site light information and the irritation to the tissue is reduced. A method of using such a probe to determine coagulated boundary in thermal or other treatment is also described.

Abstract: One aspect relates to ablating an at least some matter of an at least a portion of an individual within an at least one prescribed desired ablating region at least partially responsive to at least some Compton X-ray scattering visualizing, imaging, or information providing within the at least some matter of the at least the portion of the individual that is performed at least partially through a substantial depth through the at least some matter of the at least the portion of the individual. Certain aspects can include locating an at least one prescribed desired ablating region within the at least some matter of the at least the portion of the individual at least partially responsive to the Compton X-ray scattering visualizing, imaging, or information providing within the at least some matter of the at least the portion of the individual.

Abstract: The catheter (1) has a fastener (10) for firmly holding the wall (19) of vessel (18) when it is cut by optical fibers (3). The fastener (10) has an engaging element which can be a pin (20), roughened surface (23), spiral grooves (27), dendritic grooves (31), adhesive surface (34) or pointed pins (38).

Abstract: A fiber detector apparatus includes a hub having one or more electrical contacts. The hub is configured to be placed against a connector, which is disposed on an electromagnetic energy source, such that electrical continuity is established between the electrical contacts of the hub and electrical contacts on a connector plate of the electromagnetic energy source. The number and positions of the electrical contacts correlate with the presence and characteristics of one or more fibers extending through the hub toward the electromagnetic energy source. A data storage microcircuit may also be provided within the hub to store identification information about the fibers being used. Knowing the physical characteristics of the fibers being used in a particular procedure can permit a user of the apparatus to improve the effectiveness of a procedure using the electromagnetic energy.