Abstract: A method for the photodisruption of tissue using a laser beam for stereotactic laser neurosurgery includes the initial step of positioning the distal end of a probe into the tissue to be photodisrupted. A laser beam having laser pulses of picosecond or femtosecond duration is then directed along a beam path through the probe. Using a focusing lens, which is slidably positioned on the beam path in the probe, and a light reflector, which is slidably positioned on the beam path at the distal end of the probe, the laser beam is focused to a focal point that is located on a line substantially perpendicular to the beam path through the probe. By concerted movement of the lens and mirror, predetermined cylindrical layers of tissue can be photodisrupted. Specifically, a rotation of the mirror causes photodisruption of tissue along a circular arc and a simultaneous movement of the lens and mirror allows for photodisruption of additional arcs on a cylindrical surface.