Abstract: An apparatus and method for volumetric micro-liter infusion of therapeutic liquids. This portable pump system remains unobtrusive and less restrictive of patient ambulation and orientation. The present invention includes expendables, the disposability of which facilitates safe reuse of more expensive portions and is sufficiently simple for use in a home care environment. It may be designed to incorporate real-time, interactive or remote monitoring and regulation and visual or audible indication of system pressures, chemical balances and other important variables.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for volumetric micro-liter infusion of therapeutic liquids. This portable pump system remains unobtrusive and less restrictive of patient ambulation and orientation. The present invention includes expendables, the disposability of which facilitates safe reuse of more expensive portions and is sufficiently simple for use in a home care environment. It may be designed to incorporate real-time, interactive or remote monitoring and regulation and visual or audible indication of system pressures, chemical balances and other important variables.

Abstract: Novel apparatus and methods for a circumferential laser and methods for using a circumferential burning laser are disclosed. The circumferential burning laser comprises a conical surface at the distal end of a probe of the laser which is coated with a highly reflective material such as gold. The conical, reflective surface is designed so as to direct the laser light which is emitted through the interior metal lumen of the laser probe so that the laser light is redirected perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the laser probe. This is in contradistinction to the typical laser probe wherein the laser light is directed longitudinally through the end of the laser probe. The laser light is provided by a carbon dioxide laser which is attached at the proximal end of the laser probe.The present invention also comprises methods for using a circumferential burning laser. The methods for using a circumferential burning laser involve placing the above-described laser probe in position relative to a target site.

Abstract: An improved optical delivery assembly for an argon-ion or similar medical laser attaches to a wobble plate for thermal tracking and supports in a single integral subassembly an adjustable focusing lens, a beam splitter and associated light detector enabling selective display of power at both proximal and distal ends of the fiber, scattering and blocking shutters, a scattering shutter position sensor, shutter control solenoids, an optical plug position sensor and an optical plug mounting block adapted to interchangeably receive any of several types of optical fiber connecting plugs.

Abstract: A shutter mechanism for employment in an ophthalmic laser treatment system mounts between the binoculars and a slit lamp or operating microscope. The shutter mechanism provides a filter movable into the optical viewing path when the laser is under selected power during treatment to prevent damage to the operator's eyes from the laser beam and uncovers the viewing paths when said treatment site is being viewed in conjunction with laser beam alignment and similar pre-operational procedures.

Abstract: A disposable laser endocoagulator apparatus for ophthalmic surgery or the like. The apparatus includes an elongated, generally pencil-like handtool which has a stainless steel probe positioned at the leading end of the handtool. An optical fiber is inserted through a bore in the handtool such that the optical fiber terminates at the distal end of the probe. The optical fiber is attached to a connector which includes a plastic body, the plastic body having a small metal plug inserted into it. The metal plug is constructed of stainless steel so as to be capable of being machined with great precision such that the optical fiber carried by the plug can be accurately positioned and aligned with respect to the laser beam output by a conventional argon ion type laser.

Abstract: A detachable optical fiber assembly for transmitting a laser beam from a laser source to a surgical laser instrument such as a slit lamp or operating microscope. The assembly comprises an optical fiber enclosed within a protective casing with connectors attached to the ends thereof. The connector which attaches the fiber to the laser source includes means for adjusting the alignment of the fiber within the connector as well as the depth to which it penetrates the socket in the laser source to insure that the tip of the fiber is positioned at the focal point of the laser beam.

Abstract: A disposable hand piece for attachment at the end of a laser catheter assembly. The hand piece is longitudinally tapered and is generally wedge-shaped in its width so as to form a tool which can be comfortable grasped by a surgeon for purposes of more accurately controlling the laser beam applied through the laser catheter. The hand piece includes an internal switching mechanism which may be conveniently activated by pressing flexible panels positioned on the sides of the hand piece. The hand piece is constructed of inexpensive plastic materials and is designed to be disposable after a single use.