Abstract: A surgical instrument in the form of, for example, a two mm needle has an open distal aspiration port for holding tissue to be fractured. An optical fiber extends along the length of the needle and has it's distal end positioned close to a metal target. Pulses of laser energy are discharged from the distal end of the optical fiber to strike the target. The target acts as a transducer converting the electromagnetic energy to shockwaves that are directed onto tissue in an operating zone adjacent to the aspiration port. The mechanical shockwaves cause the tissue to fracture and the tissue, together with the irrigating fluid is drawn out through an aspirating passageway. A flexible as the needle enhances access to various area where tissue is to be fractured.

Abstract: A laser light energy powered device for providing directed emission of laser light energy has a blunt, i.e., non-sharp, laser light emitting tip element. The tip element is preferably formed as a slab defined by two pairs of parallel sides, a proximal end face for receiving laser light energy conveyed thereto through an optic fiber, and a laser light energy emitting curved-sided distal end surface. The curved side surface is contiguous at one end with one of the elongate parallel sides defining the tip element. All surfaces are smooth and polished in one embodiment and laser light energy is emitted therefrom in a first portion focused generally forwardly of the distal end of the tip element and in a second portion emitted laterally of the end portion of the tip element.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for the instant intraoperative detection and biopsy of metastatic cancer using fluorescence spectroscopy. A photosensitizing agent selectively retained by cancerous tissue is administered prior to surgery. A fiberoptic probe integrated with a biopsy device illuminates the examined tissue and causes fluorescence which is recorded by a spectrograph and plotted as a spectral curve. The intensity ratio (S1/S2) for the fluorescence from the photosensitizing agent (S1) and autofluorescence (S2) for the examined tissue is compared with the intensity ratio at the same wavelengths for primary tumor and normal tissue. Tissue that displays an intensity ratio different from that of normal tissue can immediately be analyzed for the depth of tumor involvement and then excised for histological examination using the biopsy device.

Abstract: Removal of body tissue with a long pulsed lasers is achieved such that sufficient energy to remove tissue is transmitted to the desired body without damaging an optical fiber transmitting the laser radiation. Pairs of pulses having the same or different wavelengths are coupled to more effectively remove tissue from the surgical site.

Abstract: A method of treating benign prostatic hyperplasia employs the steps of inserting a diffusing light guide into a prostrate lobe and providing laser power to the diffusing light guide in order to necrose surrounding tissue. The diffusing light guide can be inserted into the central or lateral prostrate lobes by inserting a needle and a trocar transperineally into the middle of the lateral lobe, removing the trocar, inserting the diffusing light guide, and monitoring the position of the needle, trocar, and diffusing light guide using ultrasound. The diffusing light guide can also be inserted into the central or lateral prostrate lobes transurethrally and positioned with the aid of an urethroscope.

Abstract: A beam delivery apparatus, including a set of focusing mirrors (or transmissive lenses) mounted along an endoscope channel. A laser beam can be focused into an input end of the channel with a smaller F number (wider cone angle) than is possible in a conventional endoscope. As the beam propagates down the channel, it is reflected (or transmitted) a finite number of times by the focusing elements. The focusing elements act as a periscope to focus and refocus the beam as it propagates along the channel, with little loss of beam power. The invention enables delivery of the beam to the channel's distal end with a smaller F number than can be achieved using a conventional endoscope. In a preferred embodiment, a pair of reflecting strips are mounted the channel, the surface of each strip defines six focusing mirrors, and the beam undergoes a total of twelve reflections from the mirrors as it propagates down the channel.

Abstract: A cutaneous pigmented lesion is treated by irradiation with laser light of between 345 and 600 nm and preferably about 500 nm wavelength. The fluence is between 1 and 10 J/Cm.sup.2 and preferably between 2 and 4 J/cm.sup.2 . The pulse duration is less than 1 .mu.sec and preferably less than 500 nsec. A 3 mm diameter spot is illuminated.

Abstract: A lens exchanger for a laser surgical tool is disclosed. This lens exchanger installs easily between the coupler for the laser source and the surgical tool (such as a laparoscope). The lens exchanger protects the lens on the surgical tool from contamination by water vapor, smoke and debris. The lens exchanger can be configured to provide clear windows so the surgeon can conveniently switch to a clean lens during surgery as needed. The lens exchanger can also be configured with lenses that change the focus of the laser cutting beam, making the cutting spot more or less focused as required by the particular application.

Abstract: A reflective metallic foil is modified so that an incident laser beam is diffused into multiple beams to dissipate the energy of the incident beam. The surface can have protrusions that range from 0.3 to 10,000 microns high with an average diameter of from 1 to 1,000 microns and an average spacing between protrusions of from 0.2 to 5,000 microns. The surface of the metallic foil can be provided with a first type pattern consisting of protrusions and indentations having an optimum range of 0.3 to 20 microns deep having average optimum diameter of 2 to 40 microns with an average optimum spacing between protrusions of 1 to 100 microns or a second type pattern consisting of protrusions and indentations having an optimum range of 20 to 100 microns deep having an average optimum diameter of 20 to 100 microns with an average optimum spacing of from 20 to 200 microns. The second type pattern can be superimposed on patterns of the first type.

Abstract: A photo-pulse from a photo-pulse generating apparatus is branched, where one branch is radiated to an examined body and the reflected light reflected within the examined body is delayed in time in proportion to the depth from the surface of the examined body and is led to a time-analyzing reflected light measuring apparatus. In this measuring apparatus, the other branched reference photo-pulse or reference signal pulse is input as delayed by the time for which the photo-pulse reflected within the examined body returns and only the reflected light component synchronized with the entering timing of this reference light pulse is analyzed in the time and is detected. By varying the detection sensitivity of this measuring apparatus in response to the depth from the surface of the examined body, the interior can be observed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for an improved laser radiation barrier for shielding a surface from laser radiation comprising an outer polymeric layer comprising a dispersion of mica, an intermediate mica layer for retarding the penetration of the laser radiation therethrough and an inner polymeric layer comprising a dispersion of mica bounded to the intermediate mica layer. The polymeric layers comprises a dispersion of titanium dioxide. An optical metallic barrier may be interposed between the outer polymeric layer and the intermediate mica layer for distributing thermal energy.

Abstract: The invention discloses a cylindrical optical radiating device for obtaining controlled light distribution in a cylindrical pattern from an optical fiber. The device is constructed of a solid cylindrical tip made from material containing an optical scattering material in which a tapered central lumen having a conical shape has been drilled, cast or bored. Light emerging from the end of the fiber is radiated out in a cylindrical pattern through the use of the tapered central lumen.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for minimizing damage to an optical fiber used as part of a laser radiation delivery system are disclosed. The apparatus includes the use of a spacer positioned adjacent the tip of the fiber to minimize the impact on the fiber tip of debris and vapor generated by exposure of a tissue target to high energy radiation. The end of the apparatus is configured to vent debris and vapor from the end of the tip to reduce damage. The fiber tip may also be annealed to enhance its resistance to damage. The buffer material may also be stripped from the delivery end of the fiber so that the inner diameter of the outer support can be narrowed. An epoxy resin is injected into the space between the uncoated fiber and the support to stabilize the fiber and prevent it from bending. The delivery end of the fiber can also be enlarged to shield the remainder of the fiber from debris and vapor.

Abstract: A laser delivery probe includes a silica optical fiber extending generally from the distal to the proximal end of the probe, a laser connector adapted to be secured to a laser source, and a handpiece. The laser connector forms the proximal end of the probe and the handpiece forms the distal end. The optical fiber provides optical paths through the laser connector and the handpiece and is secured by adhesive to both. A sheath having a lumen in which the silica optical fiber is disposed terminates proximally inside the laser connector and terminating distally inside the handpiece. The sheath is mechanically free-floating with respect to the optical fiber so that torque applied to the optical fiber is not directly applied to the sheath. The probe is used in an anti-curl laser delivery system which also includes a laser source to which the laser connector is removably secured. The sheath damps curling movements caused by rotation of the handpiece.

Abstract: Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is used as an adjunctive or stand alone procedure for the treatment of cardiovascular disease. When used as an adjunctive therapy to Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty, laser angioplasty, atherectomy, stenting, or any other interventional or surgical procedure, it has been found that the treatment timing is critical to the success of the combined therapies. A photosensitizer is administered prior to the surgical or interventional procedure and then readministered after the procedure to maintain the photosensitizer concentration level in the atheromatous plaque and smooth muscle cells in the vicinity of the lesion for a period of about 5-18 days, the period in which cell proliferation can occur. The photosensitizer inhibits smooth muscle cell proliferation and, thus, minimizes or eliminates the possibility of re-stenosis. The photosensitizer is then illuminated at the end of this period, thereby lysing the atheromatous plaque and smooth muscles.

Abstract: A bactericidal ultraviolet light radiating device for treatment of mucosal or dermal tissues, having an ultraviolet light source, an optical light-directing lens optically coupled to the ultraviolet light source for directing the ultraviolet light to the mucosal or dermal tissues, an electric power supply connected to the ultraviolet light source for supplying electric power for the ultraviolet light source and a medication dispensor coupled to the ultraviolet light source for applying a medication to the mucosal or dermal tissues. The device is primarily intended for oral (pharynx, gums, etc.) therapeutic radiation application as well as for all body cavities (nasal, ear, etc.) and for dermal pathology (ulcers, cellulitis, etc.).

Abstract: A multi-fiber linear array laser catheter for use in irradiation of biological tissue where a circular laser beam is optically transformed to coincide with the cross-section of a linear array of optical fibers. The transformed laser beams are focused onto a linear connector and transmitted through a plurality of parallel optical fibers. Heat is extracted and drawn from the vicinity of the parallel optic fibers by metallic plates acting as heat sinks on opposing sides of the parallel optic fibers.

Abstract: An improved microbeam holder to focus and control a laser beam to direct it to a target for laser beam microsurgery. The holder has a simple specular mirror holder and joystick mechanism for ease in laser beam direction. The laser beam holder allows focusing the laser beam during surgery. An attachment is included to hold the microbeam holder on the microscope apparatus being used for surgery and allows the microbeam holder to be rotated relative to the microscope. An adjustable hand rest is provided to allow ease in control of the joystick mechanism for laser beam direction.

Abstract: A laser treatment method is provided which removes pigment containing lesions, both normal and abnormal medically, from the skin of a living human. The methodology comprises a carefully controlled irradiation of the chosen treatment site on the skin of a living human; avoids the creation of cosmetically disfiguring scars; and eliminates the typical hypopigmentation as well as the pitting and other changes in skin texture normally accompanying conventionally known laser treatment techniques.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for performing a medical or dental treatment by: providing radiation at two different wavelengths and at respective power levels such that the radiation at each wavelength is individually capable of cutting a given organic tissue; simultaneously applying the laser radiation at the two different wavelengths to a single body region which is composed of the given tissue; and directing a cooling fluid at the single body fluid region simultaneously with the step of applying radiation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for highly localized treatment of biological tissue by a laser includes a micropipette having a tip with a central opening having a diameter of less than about 10 microns. The micropipette is mounted on an articulated arm for precision motion with respect to tissue to be treated. Gas is supplied to the micropipette to prevent the entry of liquid, and laser light supplied through the articulated arm is directed into the pipette. The pipette is positioned in X, Y and Z directions with respect to the tissue to control the location and depth of treatment.A protective window may be positioned at the tip of the micropipette to prevent the entry of liquid.

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: A disposable fiber diverter probe is provided that eliminates many of the typical problems associated with conventional fiber diverter probes that are designed to be used multiple times and must be sterilized between each use. The present invention utilizes thermoplastic materials in many of the components that traditional designs require to be made of metal in order to perform the required functions of a fiber diverter probe. The improved design of the present invention enables less complex, low cost parts to be used in a fiber diverter probe, wherein the probe still provides expanded capabilities over conventional, more expensive fiber diverter probes, such as more accessible and user-friendly controls for the surgeon. Moreover, the reduced cost of the fiber diverter probe provided by the present invention enables a medical facility or a private physician to make disposable fiber diverter probes economically feasible, thus eliminating the risk of exposing patients to a contaminated probe.

Abstract: A mechanical apparatus to provide pulses of light for tanning. One embodiment of the apparatus comprises a light source radiating light; a hollow cylinder having an inner and an outer cylindrical surface and an axis, the hollow cylinder having at least one opening through the inner to the outer cylindrical surface, the light source being inside the hollow cylinder, at least some of the light radiating from the light source passing through the at least one opening in the hollow cylinder; an apparatus to axially rotate the hollow cylinder; and, a surface having an opening therethrough. As the hollow cylinder is axially rotated, at least some of the light radiating from the light source passing through the at least one opening in the hollow cylinder will come into light communication with the opening in the surface and pass therethrough, thereby creating a pulse of light. Another embodiment incorporates at least two counter rotating cylinders which are coaxially aligned around a light source.

Abstract: A laser beam guiding fiber comprising, in a tip portion of an optical fiber, an oscillating member which oscillates the tip of the optical fiber along a direction which intersects an axis of the optical fiber can irradiate a wide range with laser beam, since the tip of the optical fiber oscillates by means of the oscillating member along the direction which intersects the axis of the optical fiber and the irradiated position with the laser beam reciprocates periodically with the oscillation.

Abstract: A hand-held phaco-extractor instrument comprises an elongate tubular irrigation/aspiration system for a distal or operating end, wherein a fiber-optic cable delivers laser-irradiation of wavelength which is so substantially coincident with the known high absorptivity in water that laser-energy penetration is essentially limited to the region of cataractous-lens tissue to be fragmented and extracted. In other words, for the aqueous environment in which the particular laser radiation is to do its fragmentation, there is no possibility of damaging radiation penetration to the retina or to other regions of the eye which are irrelevant to the involved cataract-removal surgery.

Abstract: A light therapy system utilizes an array of light emitting diodes which emit noncoherent light in a narrow bandwidth centered at a designated wave length. The diodes are mounted to project and focus their output on a dermal zone of a patient. A continuous or a pulsed voltage differential is utilized to energize the diodes. Higher voltage differential and peak current flow across the diodes is provided in pulsed operation than in continuous operation. With a designated wave length in the infra red bandwidth, a treatment regimen including a session of 5-10 minutes of continuous operation and a session of 5-10 minutes of pulsed operation once or twice per day has been effective in alleviating various musculoskeletal disorders. A similar treatment regimen utilizing diodes emitting light centered at the red light wave length has proven effective in the treatment of skin ulcers and delayed post operative wound healing.

Abstract: An arthroscopic method for debulking tissue and a kit of arthroscopic tools for performing the steps of the method. A protruding piece of tissue that is bearing against a nerve is undermined by the formation of a cavity beneath it, and the cavity is collapsed by heat generated by a laser. When the cavity collapses, the protruding tissue falls into it and separates from the nerve. The kit includes plural dilator tubes that are used to progressively dilate the arthroscopic incision and plural cutter tubes that are used in sequence to cut larger and larger pieces of tissue. Plural forceps are employed to remove the cut tissue to form the cavity, and impactor members in the kit are used to compact the bone that surrounds the cavity just before the laser is introduced into the cavity to collapse it.

Abstract: An optical member for transmission of laser radiation, the fiber comprising a light transmitting element containing calcium fluoride.

Abstract: An apparatus and method (10) for treating cancerous tissues and other systemic diseases through the application of an infrared laser beam to the target tissue through the biological circuit of the patient. The output of an oscillator (20) is connected to the input of a frequency selector (30) to selectively adjust the pulse frequency. The pulse train (40) is selected to be between 0.5 MHz and 7.5 MHz with a relatively low duty cycle to avoid thermic energy from making the process an uncomfortable one. The pulse signal, after being amplified, is fed to a transistor (50) that drives a laser diode (60) thereby modulating the output beam. An ultraviolet filter (70) is used to block any unwanted harmonic byproduct. The laser beam is applied substantially perpendicularly to the surface of the patient's skin and in the area in close proximity to the VICC biological circuit that would more efficiently carry the laser energy to the target tissue.

Abstract: The present invention describes a protective drape and methods for using the drape to protect or shield an object against the harmful effects of accidental exposure to optical radiation, electrical discharge, heat, or an open flame. The present invention comprises a flexible solid sheet and a composite scrim and includes methods for predicting/determining the suitability of a chosen metallic component for use in the instant drape.

Abstract: A light diffuser for simultaneous photodynamic therapy and hyperthermic treatment in the oesophagus has an arrangement (14 to 18) which disperses radially the light (10) fed in by way of an optical fiber (6) and has a tube (12) filled with silicone to which are added concentrations, modulated in the axial direction, of quartz grains having a diameter of approximately 40 .mu.m which bring about a refraction having little dependence on the wavelength.

Abstract: A multiple purpose medical forceps allows for simultaneous grasping of tissue while lasing, irrigating, suctioning and cauterizing. The forceps includes a laser fiber and irrigation and suction catheters contained within a tubular housing and exiting adjacent a pair of jaws. The forceps is insertable through a cannula into a patient's abdomen for use during a laparascopy, or into any other bodily cavity where scopic surgery may be performed.

Abstract: A laser treatment method is provided which removes pigmentations, lesions, and abnormalities from the skin of a living human. The methodology comprises a carefully controlled irradiation of the chosen treatment site on the skin of a living human; avoids the creation of cosmetically disfiguring scars; and eliminates the typical hypopigmentation as well as the pitting and other changes in skin texture normally accompanying conventionally known laser treatment techniques.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for an improved laser radiation barrier for shielding a surface from laser radiation comprising an outer polymeric layer comprising a dispersion of mica, an intermediate mica layer for retarding the penetration of the laser radiation therethrough and an inner polymeric layer comprising a dispersion of mica bounded to the intermediate mica layer. The polymeric layers comprises a dispersion of titanium dioxide. An optional metallic barrier may be interposed between the outer polymeric layer and the intermediate mica layer for distributing thermal energy.

Abstract: A method for performing percutaneous diskectomy using a laser applies a laser beam from the laser to vaporize nucleus pulposus in the nucleus of the herniated disc. The wavelength of the laser beam will vary and depend on the laser system used.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for determining the depth of excision generated by a material removal process, for determining the thickness of unablated material below the excision or incision, and for providing endpoint control of a material removal process utilize acoustic transducers for measuring the time delay between a first acoustic pulse resulting from material removal and a second acoustic pulse reflected from a distal surface or boundary layer of the material. The time delay between the two pulses detected by the transducer provides a measure of excision depth and of the depth of material below the excision. Endpoint control is provided by terminating material removal when a selected excision depth is detected. The invention can be used, for example, as a real-time monitor of excision depth and residual lamella thickness under the excision during laser corneal surgery.

Abstract: A multi-wavelength surgical laser apparatus of improved construction employs a fluid-filled stimulated Raman scattering cell in an optical feedback path of a pump laser having a power in a range suitable for surgery, and drives the Raman cell at a high repetition rate in a manner to produce a laser output at a substantially shifted wavelength at a power commensurate with that of the pump laser. In a preferred system, the relative proportions of pump light and Raman scattered light are varied to achieve a desired cutting or coagulating action. Preferably, the pump laser is operated at a pulse repetition rate above five hundred Hz. The fluid Raman medium is pumped across the optical axis of the cell. The flow system effectively doubles the Raman conversion efficiency and permits high power output while lowering the Raman lasing threshold.

Abstract: An endoscopic mirror laser beam delivery system, e.g., for laser surgery, comprises a beam splitting module (22) for optical connection to a laser beam source (14) which supplies a low-power aiming beam (12) and a high-power surgical beam (10) to the splitting module (22); a two-mirror focusing unit (24) optically connected to the splitting unit (22); and an endoscopic tube (20) for guiding the beams focused by the focusing unit (24) to a target point (P). The system also comprises a method for checking alignment of the optical system by observing the positions of two visible beam spots. In case of misalignment, these two spots do not coincide in a single point, thereby indicating misalignment which can be then corrected. The system and the method eliminate central obscuration and misalignment of the laser beams on an operation site, thereby enabling a surgeon to be able to be confident that the surgeon beam will impinge precisely upon the spot delineated by the aiming beam.

Abstract: To protect the launch surfaces of laser catheters fed with short-pulsed laser radiation, the individual optical fibers are placed on the launch side in hexagonally closest packing. Ablation-resistant materials are applied to the outer circumference of the cross-section area adjacent to the launch device, and the individual fibers and the ablation-resistant materials are connected to one another by material or friction connections. The ablation-resistant materials are of the same material, silicate, or PTFE, as the optical fibers.

Abstract: A flexible laser shield for use during procedures in which lasers are utilized, which has an insulating layer positioned under a metallic layer and covered by an exterior opaque layer to inhibit the reflecting of ambient room light during use. A second metallic layer, also optionally covered by a flexible, opaque material may be added to provide additional protection and make the shield reversible. The exterior opaque, metallic and insulating layer are attached together at their adjacent surfaces or at their peripheries. The laser shield may also utilize visual, audible, vaporous and/or electrical warning or alarm systems, and may embody the use of a variety of insulating materials to protect personnel and equipment from damage caused by laser radiation.

Abstract: A laser therapeutic apparatus for treating a patient by irradiating selected body parts by laser beams generated by a plurality of laser probes. The laser probes are supported by a common support table and a lock mechanism is provided to selectively lock and release the laser probes to maintain and release the orientation thereof. Each laser probe includes an inner cylinder and an outer cylinder and a spring for biasing the inner cylinder axially within the outer cylinder. The end of the inner cylinder is provided with one or more lights that are energized when the associated probe is emitting a laser beam. The end of each laser probe further includes indicating rings for visually indicating the extent of the axial movement of the inner cylinder with respect to the outer cylinder.

Abstract: The method and apparatus of the invention use a beam of laser emitted optical energy to effect wound closure and reconstruction of biological tissue. In response to input as to tissue type and thickness, a computer determines the output power, exposure time and spot diameter of the emitted beam to control the application of optical energy to produce thermal heating of biological tissue to a degree suitable for denaturing the tissue proteins such that the collagenous elements of the tissue form a "biological glue" to seal immediately and/or to reconstruct the tissue being heated. In a given embodiment, the computer directly controls output power of the laser by regulating the laser's input current, and limits exposure time by deactivating a shutter mechansim when the determined time is reached. Beam diameter is manually set in response to a displayed value for a sliding scale that controls the working distance between the end of a fiber optic beam guide and the tissue site.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for tissue cutting and cauterizing using a YAG laser and an optical fiber. YAG laser outputs at wavelengths of 1.06 and 1.3 microns are used for tissue cauterizing and cutting, respectively. In one embodiment, a multimode laser with means for switching the laser output between the two wavelengths is utilized; in another embodiment, individual lasers operating at the respective wavelengths are utilized.

Abstract: The cutting of tooth or bone tissue with laser radiation is enhanced by giving the radiation a polarization P parallel to the surface of the tissue being cut. For enlarging a tooth canal, laser radiation is delivered via an optical fiber which is introduced into the canal and is tapered in the region of its distal end. To fill a canal, an optical fiber having a low melting point is introduced into the canal and radiation is conducted through the fiber to melt the fiber and form the filling. The fiber may be coated with a material which will be melted by the radiation and will bond to the canal wall.

Abstract: Tachyarrhythmias are corrected by in vivo ablation of human heart tissue employing laser energy delivered by means of elongated optical fibers in a series of short discrete pulses to sites of tachyarrhythmia foci. The operation may be conducted by a thoracotomy or by means of an optical fiber carried by a catheter passed into the heart via a blood vessel. An argon ion laser is preferred. The processes have been demonstrated successfully in 20 clinical operations pursuant to an experimental protocol.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting breakage in an optical fiber is disclosed. The system includes an acoustic detector coupled to the optical fiber to be monitored for breakage which operates to generate an electrical output signal when the sound of an optical fiber break is detected. A signalling circuit measures the output of the acoustic detector and operates to generate a signal indicative of the output of the acoustic detector, and an indicator circuit is responsive to the output of the signalling circuit to provide an indication of breakage in the optical fiber. In one preferred embodiment, a control circuit is also provided which operates to interrupt light transmission through the optical fiber when breakage of the optical fiber is detected.

Abstract: A performance tester apparatus and method as disclosed for surgical laser system which permits testing of both the laser aiming a laser cutting beams of the surgical laser system. The laser aiming and laser cutting beams are tested for coincidence with each other and a test is made using a bull's eye type configuration on a target to determine the mode and divergence of the laser cutting beam. A single non-inflammable and preferably removable target is used to test both the laser aiming and cutting beams. Suitable shielding means are also used to shield against possible eye injury to an operator or viewer of the test of either or both the laser aiming beam and the laser cutting beam.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for the substantially uniform irradiation of the entire area of cavities from the inside. The apparatus comprises a light source and a layer comprising a material having a high-scatter capability, low transmission and low absorption, wherein said layer fits well to the interior surface of a cavity. The method comprises placing an area-covering layer along rhe cavity wall of the cavity to be irradiated with a material having a high diffusive reflection capability, low transmission, and low absorption capability to obtain a lined cavity; introducing a light source onto the interior of the lined cavity; and irradiating the lined cavity so that the light entering from the area-covering layer into the cavity wall is homogeneously distributed.

Abstract: Structure is provided for inspecting a lithotripter ellipsoidal reflector. In one form of the invention a narrow light beam such as a laser light beam is projected through the first focus point of the reflector as relfects on to a target on the axis of reflection, thereby indicating visually the location of the second focus point. The target preferably is a rod lying on the axis of rotation. Preferably the light source is movable in a vertical plane, and the reflector is rotatable about its axis of rotation to provide redundancy in location of the second focus point. In a further form of the invention the target comprises a photocell so that the accuracy and reflectivity of the reflecting surface can be measured.