Abstract: A mechanism for distributing the output beam from a laser system in a treatment pattern that comprises a plurality of optical fibers, having input ends and output ends. At the input ends, the fibers are secured in a scan configuration for receiving an output beam from a laser. At the output ends, the fibers are configured in a treatment configuration for distributing the output beam in a treatment pattern. A scanner coupled with the laser system directs the beam in a scan pattern at the input ends of the fibers which matches the scan configuration. The treatment configuration secures the output ends of the optical fibers so that the output end of one optical fiber sequentially receiving the beam from the scanner is non-adjacent the output end of a next optical fiber sequentially receiving the beam from the scanner.

Abstract: A laser system using non-linear crystals for second harmonic generation and solid state gain media is operated under data processor control so that a plurality of pump power modes are available. The data processor modulates the pump power in a low power mode, and supplies continuous pump power in combination with Q-switching in a high power mode. Alternatively, modulation may be used in both low power and high power modes, with the parameters of the modulation adjusted under program control. Second harmonic generation without a Q-switch in high power modes can be achieved as well. The data processing control of pump power allows optimization of pump energy consumption and the generation of waste heat so that the laser resonator may be air-cooled in many environments. Also other design objectives can be achieved for specific laser applications using the program controlled data processor to drive the pump power source.

Abstract: A laser system generates suitable laser power for use in photodynamic therapy, and particularly photodynamic therapy using dyes which undergo desired photodynamic reactions at 659 mm, i.e., Purpurin. The laser system generates a red output power of greater than 4 watts. For the therapeutic applications, a means for delivering the red beam to therapeutic sites is provided. The laser system provides for a frequency doubled solid-state laser system in which the non-linear birefringent crystal used to provide frequency doubling is mounted adjacent a flat mirror whereby losses due to walkoff of the beam caused by the crystal are minimized. The laser resonant cavity defined by one flat and one other mirror, which may be stabilized by means, such as thermal lensing in the solid-state gain medium, inside the cavity. A frequency doubled Nd:YAG rod in such cavity tuned to 1.319 microns with a KTP frequency doubling crystal for generates an output beam at 0.

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: Intra-cavity generation of second and higher harmonic frequency laser radiation is improved by inclusion of a lens or multiple-lens arrangement that focuses electromagnetic radiation emitted by the active laser medium on a wavelength conversion means within the cavity or on removal means to remove the second or higher harmonic radiation from the cavity.

Abstract: Intra-cavity generation of second and higher harmonic frequency laser radiation is improved by inclusion of a lens or multiple-lens arrangement that focuses electromagnetic radiation emitted by the active laser medium on a wavelength conversion means within the cavity or on removal means to remove the second or higher harmonic radiation from the cavity.

Abstract: An insert for guiding and orienting a surgical laser peripheral into a calibration device for calibrating the laser's output is disclosed. This insert is affixable to the output end of the laser peripheral. It is configured as a rigid body of flat sheet stock shaped at its lower end to permit insertion into the aperture of a laser calibration device. It has at its midsection a shoulder which limits insertion into said aperture to a predetermined depth. It has, at its upper end, one or more manually-engagable tabs for manipulating the insert with the peripheral attached. A calibratable laser peripheral which is made up of the peripheral in combination with such a laser calibration insert is also disclosed.

Abstract: An endoscopic device having a handle assembly and a catheter assembly is disclosed. The catheter assembly carries a viewing conduit which cooperates with an eyepiece on the handle assembly for viewing in a patient's body cavity. The catheter assembly is preferably rotatably and removably mounted on the handle assembly. Also disclosed is a coupling unit which, together with the catheter assembly, forms an endoscopic camera device.

Abstract: An improved configuration for interchangeable laser surgery peripheral devices is disclosed. This configuration, which is an improved embodiment of the configuration disclosed in U.S. Ser. No. 525,833, includes a directional plug of predetermined fixed orientation adapted to be connected to a laser output device. Within this plug and extending therefrom is an axially centered, flexible, laser light transmissive elongated optic fiber, the plug end of which is aligned to receive the output of the laser and the distal end of which is to be used for effecting the laser surgery procedure. The plug, when connected to the laser output in its predetermined fixed orientation provides an unambiguous signature signal which distinguishes the particular peripheral device from the other interchangeable peripheral devices. This connector system has the advantage of minimizing the cost of the signature generating parts within the peripheral device and facilitating the fabricating of inexpensive disposable peripheral devices.

Abstract: A medical device for applying localized heat to a portion of a patient's body is disclosed. Generally, the device includes a light transmitting conduit and a heat generating element which converts transmitted light into heat. A suitable exterior tube can also be provided for guidance, strength and delivery of fluids. The medical device can be used to cauterize or destroy tissue, or alter or remove deposits from lumens. The medical device can also serve as part of a system which provides the light and measures the temperature of the element.

Abstract: A surgical laser system includes a laser, interchangeable peripheral output devices, a sensor effective to sense the power output of a peripheral device coupled to the sensor, and a control circuit for calibrating the radiation output of each device, interlocking the system to prevent use of a device before it has been calibrated, and controlling the production of calibration, aiming and main power laser beams.

Abstract: An endoscopic device is disclosed which provides for unobstructed viewing within a body space of a patient. The endoscopic device includes a tube carrying a light transmitting system with a balloon extending over the system. The balloon can be expanded and the interior of the body space inspected or irradicated with a laser beam through the balloon.

Abstract: A method for providing an oxygen bearing liquid to a blood vessel during the performance of a medical procedure is disclosed. In one preferred embodiment the blood flow is temporarily occluded, a substantially clear oxygen bearing liquid is introduced into the blood vessel and the inside of the blood vessel is inspected through a viewing system and treated with laser irradiation.

Abstract: A dual balloon catheter device is provided with two spaced and expandable balloons for occluding a segment of a blood vessel. The device also includes a first channel for flushing the occluded segment, an optic system for use in the segment, and a second channel for introducing fluid into the blood vessel distally of the device.

Abstract: A fiber optic microcatheter device is provided with a conduit directing system to tilt the distal end of an internal conduit with respect to an external tube held in a lumen by expanding the diameter of an elastic zone on the external tube. Within the internal conduit are viewing and illumination fiber optic bundles which permit viewing within the lumen. A laser light transmitting fiber within the internal conduit may be aimed at a site within the lumen by tilting the distal end of the internal conduit. Also provided are tubes for flushing and vacuum to provide clear viewing within the lumen and to remove debris.