Abstract: A method of treating the interior surface of a body cavity of a patient using an optical fiber having at its distal end a tip which partially absorbs and partially emits laser radiation supplied to the tip by the optical fiber. The distal end of the optical fiber is inserted into the cavity. An irrigating fluid is introduced into the cavity, wherein the fluid irrigates the interior surface. The irrigating fluid is in heat-transfer relationship with the tip. The irrigation fluid is heated by supplying laser radiation to the tip whereby laser radiation absorbed by the tip raises the temperature of the tip and the surrounding irrigating fluid. The surface of the body cavity to be treated is selectably exposed with the laser radiation for thermally and optically treating said surface.

Abstract: The surgical tool is used in conjunction with a direct contact laser that is powered through a small diameter laser power tube. In one embodiment, the tool includes a bendable, rigid tube having a lumen sufficiently larger than the laser power tube such that upon application of an axial, inboard directed force, the laser power tube is axially compressed within the lumen of the bendable tube. The contact laser tip, located at the end of the power tube, is powered by a laser core which is retained within the lumen of the laser power tube. The laser core is flooded by irrigation and cooling fluid flowing through the laser power tube. This fluid is ejected or emitted from the distal end of the laser power tube immediately behind the laser contact tip. In one embodiment, the bendable tube includes a handle and a bendable, rigid nozzle made of plastic. A longitudinally actuated suction control valve is disposed in the handle.

Abstract: One endoscopic surgical tool is used in conjunction with a laser that is powered through a small diameter laser power tube. The tool includes a bendable, rigid tube having a lumen sufficiently larger than the laser power tube such that upon application of an axial, inboard directed force, the laser power tube is axially compressed within the lumen of the bendable tube. The tool further includes a coupling tube which provides suction through the lumen of the bendable, rigid tube. Further enhancements of this tool include an axial movable, soft touch casing surrounding the tube. The tool may include a handle at the proximal end of the tube and a branch coupler and second bendable, rigid tube with suction control valves for the primary bendable tube and the branch bendable tube.