Abstract: A cannula for a liposuction device includes an energy source for liquefying, emulsifying or softening fatty tissue near a tip end. The energy source can provide laser energy through a fiber optic cable, or can provide energy such as RF, ultrasound or IR/UV/Vis energy from a laser diode or the like. Fat is emulsified, liquefied or softened by the energy emitted from the cannula and is removed by aspiration through a series of holes disposed in the outside wall and at the distal end of the cannula. In a power assisted embodiment, the openings in the cannula shear or cut neighboring fat tissue. The tip of the cannula can be heated to promote skin tightening.

Abstract: A cannula for a liposuction device includes a laser energy source for liquefying, emulsifying or softening fatty tissue at the cutting windows inside the distal tip end of the cannula. The energy source provides laser energy through an optical fiber positioned within said interior region of the cannula and extending though the cannula and having an end located at the distal tip end of the cannula adjacent the cutting windows. Fat is emulsified, liquefied or softened by the energy emitted into tissue at the cutting windows of the cannula and is removed by aspiration. In a confined laser beam power assisted embodiment, the openings in the cannula shear or cut neighboring fat tissue and the radiant energy at the cutting windows softens and/or emulsifies the tissue.

Abstract: Lithium ion batteries which contain phosphates can serve as sterilizable power sources for use in surgical tools. Battery packs containing lithium ion batteries that contain phosphates are able to survive lengthy autoclaving cycles, where lithium ion batteries without phosphates cannot survive such cycles. Thus, a surgical tool can be provided sterilizable power source when phosphate containing lithium ion batteries are used.