Abstract: A composite prosthesis and method for limiting the incidence of postoperative adhesions. The composite includes a mesh fabric and a barrier which prevents exposure of the mesh fabric to areas of potential adhesion. The interstices of the mesh fabric are infiltrated by tissue which secures the prosthesis in place. The composite is positioned with the barrier relative to the region of potential adhesion, such as the abdominal viscera.

Abstract: A catheter for delivering radiant energy, such as a laser beam, is used in a technique to controllably apply the radiant energy in a patient's body, such as in a blood vessel. The radiant energy is applied in a manner which erodes biological material and may be used to drill through vascular obstructions. The catheter emits the radiant energy from its distal end in a pattern which defines a relatively small working region in which the energy density level is sufficiently high to remove the biological material. The energy distribution is substantially uniform across the beam. Distally beyond the working region, the energy density of the beam decays sharply so that biological material beyond the working region is not removed.