Abstract: A laser eye surgery system includes a laser for producing a laser beam capable of making refractive corrections, an optical system for shaping and conditioning the laser beam, a digital micromirror device (DMD) for reflecting the shaped and conditioned beam toward the eye, and a computer system for controlling the mirrors of the DMD. The computer system generates one-bit resolution images corresponding to ablation layers defining a correction for the eye. The images are then transferred to the DMD for appropriate reflection of the laser beam toward the eye such that the shape of the cornea of the eye is corrected.

Abstract: An side irradiating type laser ray irradiation apparatus for irradiating a tissue with a laser ray having a deep transmitting capability for the purpose of treating, for example, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, cancer or other tumors. The apparatus includes an irradiating unit for reflecting the laser ray, a transporting device for transporting the irradiating unit, and an interlocking device for changing the irradiation angle of the laser ray in correspondence with the movement so that the laser ray radiated from the moving irradiating unit always passes through the same point. Since the laser ray constantly passes through a point in a deep area of the tissue, it is capable of effectively heating only the deep lesional region.

Abstract: Optical fiber diffusers for emitting light cylindrically along a length of the fiber diffuser with preselected light intensity distributions along the length of the diffuser. The diffuser portion is defined by forming a Bragg grating in a section of the optical fiber core having a modulated index of refraction which acts to couple light radially out of the fiber along the diffuser section. The intensity distribution of light coupled out of the diffuser section of the fiber is controlled by controlling the profile of the modulated index of refraction, namely the coupling coefficient, along the length of the grating. For photodynamic therapy type II strong Bragg gratings are preferred which give higher intensity output over short distances. Multiple Bragg gratings can be written into a multimode fiber for emission of light at several positions along the fiber.

Abstract: An side irradiating type laser ray irradiation apparatus for irradiating a tissue with a laser ray having a deep transmitting capability for the purpose of treating, for example, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, cancer or other tumors. The apparatus includes an irradiating unit for reflecting the laser ray, a transporting device for transporting the irradiating unit, and an interlocking device for changing the irradiation angle of the laser ray in correspondence with the movement so that the laser ray radiated from the moving irradiating unit always passes through the same point. Since the laser ray constantly passes through a point in a deep area of the tissue, it is capable of effectively heating only the deep lesional region.

Abstract: A medical device is provided which includes a suction conduit and an energy-transmitting conduit wherein at least some of the transmitted energy is directed to the distal region of the suction conduit. The device may include an optical apparatus for directing the energy. The device has applications in lithotripsy and tissue-removal in a patient.

Abstract: A device for use in laser ophthalmic surgery includes a laser system, a disposable contact lens and an adjustable retainer ring for mounting the contact lens on the laser system. In order to properly align the disposable contact lens to the laser system, reference marks on the contact lens are brought into coincidence with predetermined focal points along the laser beam paths. To this end, the laser system successively directs a laser beam along at least three predetermined paths to respective predetermined focal points, and the contact lens is positioned across these predetermined paths. Along each predetermined path, the laser beam is activated to establish a series of laser marks on the contact lens. If the laser marks, predetermined focal points and reference marks are all coincident, then the contact lens is properly aligned with the laser system.

Abstract: Fiber delivered laser pulses emulsify thrombus by mechanical stresses that include a combination of pressure, tension and shear stress. Laser radiation is delivered to the locality of a thrombus and the radiation is absorbed by blood, blood dot, or other present materials. The combination of a leading pressure wave and subsequent vapor bubble cause efficient, emulsification of thrombus. Operating the laser in a low average power mode alleviates potential thermal complications. The laser is operated in a high repetition rate mode to take advantage of ultrasound frequency effects of thrombus dissolution as well as to decrease the total procedure time. Specific parameter ranges for operation are described. The device includes optical fibers surrounding a lumen intended for flow of a cooling agent. The fibers may be arranged concentrically around the lumen to deliver radiation and heat over as large an area as possible.

Abstract: A holographic light focusing device is disclosed. The device generally comprises an elongate member having an input end and an output end, a light source disposed at the input end, and a light guide extending along the elongate member and operable to guide a light beam emitted from the light source to the output end of the elongate member. The device further comprises a focusing system disposed at the output end of the elongate member. The focusing system includes a plurality of holographic optical elements switchable between an active state wherein light from the light source is diffracted by the element to focus the light and a passive state wherein the light is not substantially diffracted by the device. Each of the holographic elements is configured to focus the light at a different distance relative the output end when in its active state.

Abstract: The invention features methods and systems for selectively delivering or coupling laser radiation into a first material or substrate, e.g., a first biological tissue, having a first index of refraction and not into a second material or substrate, e.g., a second biological tissue, having a second index of refraction. The system determines whether a target area corresponds to the first material or the second material by monitoring the reflection of a probe beam incident on the target area through an optical coupler at a non-normal incident angle. The monitored reflection of the probe beam is a control signal for a feedback controller that causes a treatment beam to be delivered to the target area based on the monitored reflection.

Abstract: In a treatment laser apparatus, when the data on a laser spot magnification of a contact lens CL to be used for treatment of a patient's eye E is input by means of a controller 7 and the data on a spot size of treatment laser beams in air is input by means of a change knob 4, a real spot size of the laser beams which is irradiated to an affected part of the patient's eye E is calculated in a control section 30 based on the both inputted data, and the calculated result is displayed on a display section 20.

Abstract: A photon-mediated technique for introducing biological materials into cells and/or cellular components. The technique may be used to introduce nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, proteins or other biological materials into mammalian cells (as well as into other animal and plant cells), which materials may then flow into the nuclei of the cells. The technique uses picosecond or femtosecond light pulses propagating in the UV, visible and near infrared wavelength regions with powers on the order of 1×1010 W/cm2. In practice, the desired biological materials are coated on the end of the inner core of a single mode fiber or the ring core of a fiber in a fiber array. Each fiber is sized to correspond to one cell, with the core size ranging from 2&mgr; to 10&mgr;, and the cladding ranging from 10&mgr; to 30&mgr;. The laser pulse travels through a fiber core which is coated with the materials and ablates a portion of a targeted cell or cellular component membrane.

Abstract: Vascular blemishes are reduced by directing pulsed laser radiation to converge toward the blemishes in a plurality of directions, each beam of radiation being derived from a primary radiation source or from a separate radiation source, thereby to cause selective thermolysis of blood vessels in the blemishes.

Abstract: Fluorescence imaging of tissue is used as a diagnostic tool in which geometric effects and specular reflections are compensated for by normalizing a fluorescence image with a cross-polarized image.

Abstract: A laser treatment apparatus for irradiating a treatment part with a laser beam for treatment is disclosed. The apparatus includes a treatment light irradiation unit including a treatment light source which emits the treatment laser beam, an irradiation optical system which delivers the treatment laser beam emitted from the light source to irradiate the treatment part, and a laser emission end unit internally provided with a part of the irradiation optical system. The apparatus further includes a movement unit which moves the emission end unit with respect to the treatment part, a determination unit which determines an irradiation position of the treatment laser beam, and a control section which transmits a control signal to the movement unit based on a determination result by the determination unit and controls laser irradiation.

Abstract: A controlled process for thoroughly curing light-activated surgical and dental composites is presented using a hand-held, self-contained, cordless, rechargeable laser instrument. At least one diode laser generates focused laser light, and enhances efficiency and control of curing. The process of use includes switching from stand-by mode to curing mode of operation of the instrument to save time during surgical and dental procedures.

Abstract: A laser handpiece using an optical system such as a prism. The laser handpiece includes a laser fiber for irradiating laser beam output from a laser generating device, a first beam path changing portion for changing a traveling path of the laser beam output from the laser fiber, a second beam path changing portion for changing finally the traveling path of the laser beam output from the first beam path changing portion, a focus lens for focusing the laser beam output from the second beam path changing portion onto a point, and a main body for containing the laser fiber, the first beam path changing portion, the second beam path changing portion and the focus lens. Thus, an optical axis can be easily aligned and the traveling path of the laser beam can be easily changed within a small space, so the laser handpiece can be manufactured in a convenient shape for use.

Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus for performing selective ablation of a corneal surface of an eye to effect a desired corneal shape, particularly for correcting a hyperopic/astigmatic condition by laser sculpting the corneal surface to increase its curvature. In one aspect of the invention, a method includes the steps of directing a laser beam onto a corneal surface of an eye, and changing the corneal surface from an initial curvature having hyperopic and astigmatic optical properties to a subsequent curvature having correctively improved optical properties. Thus, the curvature of the anterior corneal surface is increased to correct hyperopia, while cylindrical volumetric sculpting of the corneal tissue is performed to correct the astigmatism. The hyperopic and astigmatic corrections are preferably performed by establishing an optical correction zone on the anterior corneal surface of the eye, and directing a laser beam through a variable aperture element designed to produce a rectangular ablation (i.e.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved method of removing fluids, gases or other biomolecules, or delivering a pharmaceutical composition, through the skin of a patient without the use of a sharp or needle. The method includes the step of irradiating the stratum corneum, an applied pharmaceutical or an absorbing material, using a laser. By selection of parameters, the laser irradiates the selected material or tissue to create pressure gradients, plasma, cavitation bubbles, or other forms of tissue ablation or alteration. These methods increase the diffusion of pharmaceuticals into, or fluids, gases or other biomolecules out of, the body. For this invention, a pharmaceutical composition can be applied to the skin before or after laser irradiation.

Abstract: A process for monitoring and controlling the adjustment of treatment parameters in an ophthalmic treatment device which comprises a radiation source generating at least a treatment beam and, optionally, a target beam and an applicator which is connected with the radiation source via at least one optical element and can be attached to a slip lamp, wherein the following steps are provided: a) the irradiation parameters such as intensity, magnification of the contact lens placed on the eye, radiation dose per unit area, and spot size on the retina are adjusted by the operator at the radiation source; b) first parameters to be adjusted at the applicator are calculated on the basis of patient-related influencing variables such as contact lens magnification and the size of the spot to be realized on the retina, so that a determined spot size and intensity of the treatment beam to be applied can be realized at the treatment site on the retina; and c) parameters adjusted at the applicator are compared with the first

Abstract: A method for laser anti-inflammatory treatment of painful symptomatologies and for tissue regeneration is described.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for performing a myringotomy in a child's ear without the need for anaesthesia. A charge coupled device or television camera is aimed within a micromanipulator housing at a child's ear drum. The housing is retained to the ear, either with a fastener such as an adhesive or in a helmet, so that the housing moves with the movement of the child's head. A video image of the ear drum surface is displayed on a screen from signals transmitted from the camera device. A physician marks on the screen with an electronic pen pointer where the laser beam should be aimed at the ear drum surface. A microprocessor responds to this marking to determine the appropriate coordinates and instructs mirror control motors to rotate a scanning mirror in the path of the laser beam.

Abstract: A process and device for shaping surfaces by laser machining and which are used for photorefractive keratectomy and shaping contact lenses. The shaping is performed in stages so that after any interruption in the process, a complete partial correction of the entire surface is obtained. A computing unit receives data from input units and directs data to a block generator which associates laser machining coordinates to enable the removal of individual surface layers. A sequence generator gathers the data generated by the block generator into blocks which correspond to an individual ablation areas, and orders the blocks into sequences. A block sequence transmitted by the sequence generator acts upon a laser beam deflector and beam shaping unit such that the complete partial correction of the surface is obtained for each block sequence. A central processor coordinates control of the laser, the beam shaping unit and the laser beam deflector.

Abstract: A method for modifying the curvature of a live cornea via use of a laser. The live cornea is first separated into first and and second opposed internal surfaces. Next, a laser beam is directed onto at least one of the first and second internal surfaces, or both. The laser beam is used to either ablate a three-dimensional portion of the cornea for making the cornea less curved, or coagulate a portion of the cornea for making the cornea more curved. In one embodiment, the central portion of the cornea is ablated to make the cornea less curved. In another embodiment, a plurality of internal tunnels are formed and ablated in the cornea to make the cornea less curved. In yet another embodiment, a plurality of internal points in the cornea forming the periphery of a circle are coagulated to make the cornea more curved. In place of the laser, a mechanical device can be used, such as a drill tip.

Abstract: In the present invention a laser treatment system is provided that can be used in any clinical environment without the necessity of personal safety equipment. Furthermore, the present invention provides a large amount of control to the operator/technician and the patient. The present invention combines mechanical and optical methods to protect operators and patients from undesired exposure to laser radiation. According to this approach, safe, portable and fixed embodiments that are useful in a large variety of applications, which are now possible. Several examples are described.

Abstract: A disposable aplanatic lens for reconfiguring the cornea of an eye for ophthalmic laser surgery includes a lens which has a flat anterior surface that is substantially parallel to a flat aplanation surface. A skirt surrounds the aplanation surface and extends outwardly therefrom to define a chamber. Additionally, the skirt is formed with a groove which creates a suction channel between the skirt and the aplanation surface in the chamber. A vacuum pump is connected in fluid communication with the suction channel and is selectively activated to create a partial vacuum in the channel. In its operation, the aplanatic lens is positioned over the cornea and the pump is activated to create the partial vacuum. Due to this partial vacuum, the cornea is drawn into the chamber where it is urged against the aplanation surface of the lens. The result of this is that the cornea is flattened into an aplanation configuration which is free from spherical aberration and coma during ophthalmic surgery.

Abstract: A illuminated surgical instrument (11) includes an optical fiber (21) with a proximal end and a distal end, a connector (15) disposed at the proximal end of the optical fiber, and a handpiece (13) disposed generally at the distal end of the optical fiber. The handpiece has a handpiece body and a needle (25) extending distally from the handpiece body, the optical fiber (21) extending generally through the handpiece and extending slightly past the distal end of the needle (25). The handpiece (13) is suitable for one-handed operation by a human user, and the needle (25) is of a size suitable for insertion into a human eye. The instrument (11) includes structures at the distal end of the optical fiber (21) for dispersing light passing from an illumination source through the cable to broaden the area on which light impinges, and a shield (47) disposed proximally of a portion of the dispersing structure to prevent light from impinging upon a predetermined area.

Abstract: Transocular and periocular laser delivery system for treatment of eye diseases wherein a fiberoptic element is passed through a perforation made either by paracentesis of eyeball encapsulating tissue (i.e.—cornea, sclera) or by the fiberoptic element itself so that the fiber actually penetrates into a chamber therein. The penetrating fiber end is then juxtaposed to the tissue to be treated while the external fiberoptic end is coupled either to an excimer laser emitting ultraviolet radiation (in the range of 193 to 351 nanometers) or to certain lasers emitting infrared radiation, the radiated pulses therefrom being directed through the transocularly-positioned fiber to be absorbed by chromophores in the target tissue (cataractous lens, trabecular meshwork, vitreous membranes, tear duct occlusion) where removal by photoablation is effected.

Abstract: Sound energy of a proximally arranged sound source 30 and laser radiation of a therapeutic laser 17 are simultaneously transmitted with an endoscopic instrument via flexible waveguides 3 into the body interior. The sound energy is in a power and frequency range adequate for the cutting tissue 16 and the therapeutic laser 7 operates preferably in the near infrared. The waveguides are quartz glass fibers 3 which can transmit sound energy as well as also light energy.

Abstract: A method of reducing sebum production in human skin, used primarily for cosmetic purposes, including the prevention of acne vulgaris, comprising the use of pulsed light having a wavelength, if monochromatic, or a wavelength range, if produced by a filtered non-monochromatic source, which targets the lipids contained within the sebaceous gland, thus destroying the differentiated and mature sebocytes by photothermolysis without damage to the surrounding and overlying tissue or to the basement membrane of the sebaceous gland.

Abstract: A fast and smooth scanning for achieving a uniform ablated surface without relying on any synchronization between the laser pulses and the scanner mirror positions. The scanning takes a series of close loops and the scanning speed on each loop is fine-tuned according to the perimeter of the loop. A uniform and close-packed pulse disposition along each loop can be achieved by multiple successive scans along the loop, while the consecutive pulses of a scan can be well separated. The scanning pattern is designed such that the energy distribution is uniform for every layer and the smoothness of the ablated surface remains substantially unchanged as the number of the layer increases.

Abstract: A laser adapter 2 for mounting on a surgical microscope 4 includes a compactly configured laser 9 which supplies a therapeutic laser beam 10 at a suitable wavelength. In addition, a pulse energy monitoring device is provided in the laser adapter 4 which is used for the on-line energy measurement of the emitted laser pulses and whose output signals are applied as parameters for controlling the pulse energy emitted by the laser 9.

Abstract: A laser balloon catheter for emitting in a balloon, laser lights which are transmitted through optical fibers and for irradiating the tissue with the laser lights transmitted through the balloon comprises laser light emitting means having a laser light emitting end of said optical fibers or a laser light transmittable member provided at the emitting end of the optical fibers which receives the laser lights to emit them, a first inflatable balloon provided around said light emitting means for transmitting the laser lights from said emitting means toward the tissue, a first fluid passage for supplying fluid into said first balloon to inflate the same and for discharging the fluid therefrom to deflate the same, a second inflatable balloon provided in front of said first balloon, a second fluid passage for supplying the fluid into said second balloon to inflate the same and for discharging the fluid therefrom to deflate the same.

Abstract: A method for modifying the curvature of a live cornea to correct a patient's vision. The live cornea is first separated into first and second opposed internal surfaces. Next, a laser beam or a mechanical cutting device can be directed onto one of the first and second internal surfaces, or both, if needed or desired. The laser beam or mechanical cutting device can be then used to incrementally and sequentially ablate or remove a three-dimensional portion of the cornea for making the cornea less curved. An ocular material is then introduced to the cornea to modify the curvature. The ocular material can be either a gel or a solid lens or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, a pocket is formed in the central portion of the cornea to receive an ocular material. In another embodiment, a plurality of internal tunnels are formed in the cornea to receive the ocular material. The ocular material can be either a fluid such as a gel or a solid member.

Abstract: A noncontact laser microsurgical apparatus and method for marking a cornea of a patient's or donor's eye in transplanting surgery or keratoplasty, and in incising or excising the corneal tissue in keratotomy, and for tissue welding and for thermokeratoplasty. The noncontact laser microsurgical apparatus comprises a laser source and a projection optical system for converting laser beams emitted from the laser source into coaxially distributed beam spots on the cornea. The apparatus further includes a multiple-facet prismatic axicon lens system movably mounted for varying the distribution of the beam spots on the cornea. In a further embodiment of the method of the present invention, an adjustable mask pattern is inserted in the optical path of the laser source to selectively block certain portions of the laser beams to thereby impinge only selected areas of the cornea.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for light activation of hardenable materials, such as filling materials located on dental surfaces, through fiber optic funnels coupled to light guides. Light generated by a light unit is directed through a light guide and then concentrated by a fiber optic funnel to direct concentrated light to hardenable materials. The fiber optic funnels comprises bundles of fiber optic strands. The fiber optic funnels are able to concentrate light according to their respective tapers. The fiber optic funnels are coupled to light guides by couplers which can be either rigid or elastomeric such that the couplers can be coupled with a specific light guide or conform to light guides having different diameters. A coupler can also enable a fiber optic funnel to pivot.

Abstract: A method for modifying the curvature of a live cornea to correct a patient's vision. First, at least one relatively small opening is made in the cornea for inserting a fiber optic cable or micro-cutting tool therein to create a pocket or cavity with first and second opposed internal surfaces. The laser beam or micro-cutting tool can be directed onto one of the first and second internal surfaces, or both, if needed or desired to incrementally and sequentially ablate or remove three-dimensional portions of the cornea. If a laser beam is used, then a flexible template can be inserted into the opening in the cornea for accurately controlling the pattern to be ablated within the cornea. Preferably, the live cornea is then left alone to collapse and obtain its new refractive power by waiting a set period of time. After waiting the set period of time, the cornea is then examined to determine the new refractive power of the cornea.

Abstract: A laser apparatus for selective photocoagulation of subsurface skin (dermis) for the purpose of increasing skin tone, reducing wrinkles, removing hair, removing tattoos or treating varicose veins without damaging the skin surface (epidermis). A diffuser lens in the laser apparatus is employed to focus the laser energy to the dermis. The laser apparatus includes a highly transmissive contact tip and cooling means to reduce heat build-up in the contact tip, as monitored by a thermocouple mechanism. The device can be used alone or in conjunction with superficial laser resurfacing or chemical peels to increase skin tone.

Abstract: A illuminated surgical instrument (11) includes an optical fiber (21) with a proximal end and a distal end, a connector (15) disposed at the proximal end of the optical fiber, and a handpiece (13) disposed generally at the distal end of the optical fiber. The handpiece has a handpiece body and a needle (25) extending distally from the handpiece body, the optical fiber (21) extending generally through the handpiece and extending slightly past the distal end of the needle (25). The handpiece (13) is suitable for one-handed operation by a human user, and the needle (25) is of a size suitable for insertion into a human eye. The instrument (11) includes structures at the distal end of the optical fiber (21) for dispersing light passing from an illumination source through the cable to broaden the area on which light impinges, and a shield (47) disposed proximally of a portion of the dispersing structure to prevent light from impinging upon a predetermined area.

Abstract: A method for laser treatment of the eye using one or more diffractive optical elements for producing unique treatment segments within an ablation zone on the eye. The treatment segments may be annular, pie-shaped, or have other geometries or patterns selected to apply energy in a particular manner, usually in a non-overlapping manner so that energy dosages can be precisely controlled. In a first embodiment of the method, a single diffractive optical element is used and a beam expander expands or converges the beam to achieve the different treatment segments. In a second embodiment, a plurality of diffractive optical elements are used, each of which produces a single treatment segment.

Abstract: An elongate probe for providing irradiation treatment of the heart, the probe having a distal end for engaging heart tissue of a subject, including a waveguide, which conveys radiation to the heart tissue; and a sensor, adjacent the distal end of the probe, which generates signals for use in controlling the treatment.

Abstract: An automated method is described for advantageously preparing and treating an eye of the patient. The method further provides a vision-corrective procedure, such as photothermal keratoplasty. The automated method is useful to dry the cornea to reduce or eliminate a tear film on the corneal surface that might otherwise interfere with or reduce the efficacy of a vision-corrective procedure and thereafter to treat the cornea according to a vision-corrective procedure. The automated method is user-friendly, allowing the treatment provider to develop or to select an appropriate pre-treatment and treatment plan and to activate sane using a familiar "Windows" environment. The method has particular application in the area of automated corneal preparation and treatment, it may be used in the automated preparation and treatment of other tissues or substrates.

Abstract: An instrument primarily adapted for use in photothermal keratoplasty procedures to shrink collagen tissue within a cornea of an eye being treated by controlled heating of the tissue with infra-red radiation. In a specific implementation example, a moveable multi-faceted prism is a primary optical element that forms a desired treatment infra-red radiation pattern from a single beam source. Multiple exposures to variations of the radiation pattern are provided. Parameters of two or more exposures to spot radiation patterns are stored in a memory of the instrument, and automatically configure the instrument to deliver the two or more exposures in sequence. Automatic calibration of the radiation intensity is also provided. A guide positions the head of the patient with respect to the instrument, and sensors monitoring movement of both the head and eye provide signals used to by the instrument to control radiation delivery.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for thermally obliterating biological tissues by laser radiation introduced into the tissue by means of an optical waveguide. The laser radiation is scattered by means associated with the radiation output surface of the optical waveguide. A biocompatible, medium to highly visquous liquid which does not substantially absorb the laser radiation but scatters it, is injected into the tissue, forming a scattering fluid deposit around the radiation output surface which is not separated from the tissue and which allows the tissue to be heated in a controlled manner.

Abstract: A medical apparatus especially for lowering intraocular pressure by acting on the Schlemm's canal and on the tissue of the trabecular meshwork directly in contact with the Schlemm's canal, including a probe containing a photoconductor which is curved or elastically or plastically deformable to a curved configuration and which is connected to a laser, the photoconductor having a surface coating having at least one emission window therein facing the inner curvature of the photoconductor, the emission window permitting a laser beam to issue from the photoconductor at an angle of 90.degree. to the curvature of the photoconductor.

Abstract: The invention provides improved devices, systems, and methods for removing the epithelial layer of a patient's cornea, particularly in preparation for laser resculpting of the cornea. The invention makes use of an epithelial removal tool which is integrated into a laser eye surgery system. Structurally supporting the epithelial removal tool relative to the optical train allows precise control over the positioning of the tool relative to the cornea. The force and/or duration of epithelial abrasion can be controlled to avoid removal of excess corneal tissues, and the accurate alignment of the removal tool allows the total area of epithelium removal to be minimized while ensuring that adequate access is provided for resculpting. An orbital or concentric movement of the abrasion surface may provide a more even abrasion.

Abstract: A handpiece for use in transmyocardial revascularization heart-synchronized pulsed laser system includes a barrel having a passage for transmitting a laser beam; a surface at the distal end of the barrel for contacting the wall of the heart; an aperture located at the distal end of the barrel and the enlarged surface for transmitting the laser beam; and means for focusing the laser beam proximate to the aperture to vaporize the tissue of the heart wall and create a hole to the interior heart chamber.

Abstract: A laser beam delivery apparatus and a method for smoothly and uniformly ablating tissue, e.g., for reshaping a cornea of an eye, even in the face of real-world conditions such as a moving eye. The method includes defining a plurality of scan lines in an ablation zone on the tissue and defining a plurality of laser beam ablation points along each of the scan lines. An ablating laser beam is scanned along a series of non-adjacent scan lines of the plurality of scan lines and tissue is intermittently ablated at non-adjacent ones of the laser beam ablation points on each non-adjacent scan line of the series of non-adjacent scan lines.

Abstract: A medical laser treatment device comprises a handpiece having a handpiece body and a laser probe to be attached to the handpiece body, a laser light source, and a light transmission member which guides laser light to the handpiece. The laser probe has a fiber probe having an emission face through which the laser light is emitted to an irradiation region, an annular protection tube which covers the peripheral face of the fiber probe, and a holder which holds the fiber probe and the protection tube. The protection tube has a curved part extending with being curved. A first fiber curved part is formed in the fiber probe by passing the fiber probe through the protection tube. A second fiber curved part having a radius of curvature is smaller than that of the first fiber curved part is disposed in a tip end portion of a fiber probe.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for superficially ablating and/or photochemically altering a substrate, e.g., a biological tissue, having a first refractive index, e.g., to a desired configuration, including a laser energy source which provides laser energy to an energy coupling wave generator which generates laser energy waves from the laser energy, the generator having a surface adapted to contact and form an interface with the substrate and having a second refractive index higher than the first refractive index, wherein laser energy entering the wave generator impinges on the surface at an angle of incidence greater than or equal to a critical angle for total internal reflection when the surface is not contacting the substrate, and wherein the wave generator couples the laser energy waves, e.g., refracted or evanescent waves, into the substrate at the interface to superficially ablate the substrate when contacting the substrate.

Abstract: The invention features a probe for selectively delivering laser radiation to a first tissue having a first index of refraction relative to a second tissue having a second index of refraction less than the first index. The probe includes a laser transmitting medium having an optical axis and a tissue-contacting surface. In some embodiments, the optical axis contacts the tissue-contacting surface at an angle that is less than the critical angle for an interface between the tissue-contacting surface and the first tissue and greater than or equal to the critical angle for an interface between the tissue-contacting surface and the second tissue, wherein during operation the probe directs the laser radiation along the optical axis to the tissue-contacting surface.