Abstract: Apparatus is described for use with a portion of a subject's body that moves as a result of cyclic activity of a body system. An imaging device acquires a plurality of image frames of the portion. A sensor senses a phase of the cyclic activity. A medical tool performs a function with respect to the portion. A control unit generates a stabilized set of image frames of the medical tool disposed within the portion, actuates the tool to perform the function or move, in response to the sensor sensing that the cyclic activity is at a given phase thereof, and inhibits the tool from performing the action or moving in response to the sensor sensing that the cyclic activity is not at the given phase. A display facilitates use of the tool by displaying the stabilized set of image frames. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system and method for removing hair The system comprises a hair detection device and a hair-removing device (20). Since 3D information on hairs (32) is required, but due to the very dispersed presence of, e.g., human hairs (32) on skin (30), known detection devices are too slow, the invention provides a combination of two image sensors. A first image sensor (12) produces a first image, based on which a selected part is imaged with a second image sensor (14) that provides the required 3D position information with which the hair-removing device (20) can remove the hair Thus, optimum use may be made of both fast but less accurate image sensors, such as (2D) CCDs or CMOS sensors, and accurate but slow sensors such as 3D scanning sensors.

Abstract: Methods and devices for ablating portions of a tissue volume with electromagnetic radiation (EMR) to produce lattices of EMR-treated ablation islets in the tissue are disclosed, including lattices of micro-holes, micro-grooves, and other structures. Also, methods and devices for using the ablated islets are disclosed, including to deliver chromophores, filler, drugs and other substances to the tissue volume.

Abstract: A sensor for detecting the presence of skin is disclosed, one configuration of which uses multiple light emitting diodes, each of a unique wavelength band, and a broad-band photodetector to measure the remission of light at multiple wavelengths from a material being analyzed. Characteristics of the spectral remission of the material are used to discriminate human skin from materials that are not human skin. Further, an aesthetic medical device utilizing such a sensor in which the device is inhibited from operation if skin has not been detected. The incorporation of a skin sensor improves the safety of devices that emit radiation that otherwise would pose a hazard if not directed onto skin.

Abstract: Output optical energy pulses including relatively high energy magnitudes at the beginning of each pulse are disclosed. As a result of the relatively high energy magnitudes which lead each pulse, the leading edge of each pulse includes a relatively large slope. This slope is preferably greater than or equal to 5. Additionally, the full-width half-max value of the output optical energy distributions are between 0.025 and 250 microseconds and, more preferably, are about 70 microseconds. A flashlamp is used to drive the laser system, and a current is used to drive the flashlamp. A flashlamp current generating circuit includes a solid core inductor which has an inductance of 50 microhenries and a capacitor which has a capacitance of 50 microfarads.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for developing prescriptions for and/or treating presbyopia may use a combination of an alteration to the refractive tissues of the eye with changes in the response of the visual system. The visual system response may include using residual accommodation in a manner similar to that employed by latent hyperopes, a trained response of the pupil, trained psychophysics, or the like. Associated refractive prescriptions may be tailored to take advantage of the subsequent visual system response so as to mitigate presbyopia.

Abstract: Apparutus and methods are described for performing percutancous catheter-based interventional surgery. The apparatus comprises first and second devices that are located in adjacent body cavities, such as adjacent blood vessels, the first device being capable of transmitting a directional signal that can be received by the second device. The direction of the signal is correlated with the facility to direct therapy, such that improved accuracy in therapy placement is thereby achieved. Methods for treating patients utilising the means and apparatus are also provided.

Abstract: A hand held laser for treating a skin condition includes a housing comprising a first end, a second end and a cavity therein wherein the cavity includes a substantially light reflective surface and wherein the housing comprises at least one fin extending from an exterior surface of the housing. The laser includes a flash lamp having a first axis and being retained within the cavity in a first selected position and a laser rod having a second axis and being retained within the cavity in a second selected position and wherein the first axis and the second axis are substantially parallel to each other, wherein as the flash lamp is pumped the laser rod produces a laser beam for treating the skin condition.

Abstract: A system for positioning the eye of a patient, relative to a stationary surgical laser unit, includes a chair for moving the patient. An eye stabilizing element is held against the eye, with a tapered receptacle extending outwardly therefrom. Also, an alignment device with a tapered tip is mounted on the surgical laser unit. In operation, the patient is moved to engage the receptacle of the eye stabilizing element with the tip of the alignment device, to thereby align the patient's eye with the surgical laser unit for laser surgery.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for ablating tissue are disclosed that comprise positioning two or more bidirectional ablation energy sources in spaced-apart relation in sufficient proximity to the tissue to be ablated so that, upon activation each energy source creates an energy field in the tissue to be ablated. The energy sources are spaced such that the energy fields created by at least one of the activated sources partially overlaps with the energy field created by one or more of the other energy sources. The energy sources are alternately activated and deactivated, so that a substantially constant energy field results where the energy fields created by at least two of the energy sources overlap. While the energy sources are preferably RF energy sources, other energy sources, such as microwave, may be used.

Abstract: Laser emission systems for surgical and other therapeutic uses are herein disclosed. In the preferred embodiments, different laser control systems are disclosed each capable of multiple, simultaneous emission of lasers of different wavelengths in a single beam. The embodiments feature a handheld wireless laser module or a portable console with a laser tip extending therefrom. The laser module is controlled by wireless footswitch. Fiber extension modules may be used with the later embodiment.

Abstract: An ophthalmic laser treatment apparatus comprises: a main unit in which an illumination and observation optical system for illuminating a patient's eye and allowing observation of the patient's eye under illumination, and an irradiation optical system for irradiating a treatment laser beam and an aiming beam to the patient's eye; a joystick including a grip to be grasped by an operator, the joystick being configured to move the main unit with respect to the patient's eye; and a switch placed in an opening formed in a side of the joystick, the switch being configured to input a plurality of switch signals.

Abstract: Sinusitis, enlarged nasal turbinates, tumors, infections, hearing disorders, allergic conditions, facial fractures and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches and, in many cases, flexible catheters as opposed to instruments having rigid shafts. Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies, endoscopic studies and transillumination studies. Access and occluder devices may be used to establish fluid tight seals in the anterior or posterior nasal cavities/nasopharynx and to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g., scopes, guidewires, catheters, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for injecting diagnostic or therapeutic agents, devices for implanting devices such as stents, substance eluting devices, substance delivery implants, etc.

Abstract: Laser emission systems for surgical and other therapeutic uses are herein disclosed. In the preferred embodiments, different laser control systems are disclosed and disposable tips and fiber with a unique connection structure are utilized. By being disposable, the tips are manufactured to minimize material loss while also providing the confidence patients desire for their health which comes from knowing the tips are sterile. One end of the fiber is encased in a ferrule, which provides the permanent connection. A lens structure may also be utilized to focus laser light as it passes from a waveguide into the tip. The laser generation module may emit laser light in multiple wavelengths simultaneously and may also feature remote operation.

Abstract: A system for performing minimally invasive cardiac procedures. The system includes a pair of surgical instruments that are coupled to a pair of robotic arms. The instruments have end effectors that can be manipulated to hold and suture tissue. The robotic arms are coupled to pair of master handles by a controller. The handles can be moved by the surgeon to produce a corresponding movement of the end effectors. The controller controls and limits movement of robotic arms relative to the patient.

Abstract: A method for precise working of material, particularly organic tissue, comprises the step of providing laser pulses with a pulse length between 50 fs and 1 ps and with a pulse frequency from 50 kHz to 1 MHz and with a wavelength between 600 and 2000 nm for acting on the material to be worked. Apparatus, in accordance with the invention, for precise working of material, particularly organic tissue comprising a pulsed laser, wherein the laser has a pulse length between 50 fs and 1 ps and with a pulse frequency of from 50 kHz to 1 MHz is also described.

Abstract: Provided is a lipolysis device using a low power laser, and more particularly, to a lipolysis device using a low power laser capable of non-invasively irradiating skin with a laser beam which may or may not be condensed through a lens or transparent window to obtain the same effect as lipolysis of adipose tissue exposed through incision using a conventional ultrasonic or low power laser. In addition, the lipolysis device includes a vacuum suction means to readily discharge liquefied fat discharged from an adipose cell and concentrated in a space between cell tissues through the groin area, where lymphatic vessels are abundant, and out of the body. Further the lipolysis device can stably contact human skin to break down fat and thus is convenient to use. Furthermore, the lipolysis device can break down subcutaneous fat by irradiating an abdominal region with a low power laser without skin damage or surgical operation, thereby effectively removing abdominal fat.

Abstract: The present invention includes a method of surgical material removal from a body by optical-ablation with controlled pulse energy from an amplifier including inputting an ablation-threshold-pulse-energy-for-material-being-ablated signal; controlling the energy of a pulse and the pulse repetition rate and by knowing the type of material being removed, the system can control the removal to predetermined rate and, thus knowing the removal rate, it can know how long to run to stop at the predetermined volume.

Abstract: The present invention includes an apparatus and method of surgical ablative material removal “in-vivo” or from an outside surface with a short optical pulse that is amplified and compressed using either an optically-pumped-amplifier and air-path between gratings compressor combination or a SOA and chirped fiber compressor combination, wherein the generating, amplifying and compressing are done within a man-portable system.

Abstract: A wavefront sensor enhances calibration of a laser ablation system, such as a laser eye surgery system, by measuring one or more characteristics of an ablated test surface. Typically, light is passed through the ablated test surface, and the light is analyzed to determine the test surface characteristics. In some embodiments, the ablated test surface is positioned along a treatment plane. In some embodiments, light is passed through a wavefront sensor, such as a Hartmann-Shack sensor, to convert the light into electrical signals. A processor then converts the electrical signals into data, such as surface maps showing high-order aberrations and/or artifacts on the test surface, refractive power measurements, shape measurements, and the like. Generated data may then be used to calibrate a laser surgery system.

Abstract: Described are laser systems for treating skin. The system includes a first solid-state laser for producing a first output beam, a second solid state laser for producing a second output beam, and a delivery device for directing the second output beam to a target region of skin. The second solid state is adapted to absorb a first part of the first output beam for generating excitation in a rare-earth doped gain medium to produce the second output beam. The second output beam is for treating the skin.

Abstract: A method for precise working of material, particularly organic tissue, comprises the step of providing laser pulses with a pulse length between 50 fs and 1 ps and with a pulse frequency from 50 kHz to 1 MHz and with a wavelength between 600 and 2000 nm for acting on the material to be worked. Apparatus, in accordance with the invention, for precise working of material, particularly organic tissue comprising a pulsed laser, wherein the laser has a pulse length between 50 fs and 1 ps and with a pulse frequency of from 50 kHz to 1 MHz is also described.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating in situ biologic tissue include identifying a patient with a condition susceptible to treatment by forming a lesion in the tissue and accessing a surface of the tissue. A lesion formation tool is positioned against the accessed surface. The tool includes an optical fiber for guiding a coherent waveform of a selected wavelength to a fiber tip for discharge of light energy from the fiber tip. The wavelength is selected for the light energy to penetrate a full thickness of the tissue to form a volume of necrosed tissue through the thickness of the tissue. The tool further includes a guide tip coupled to the fiber tip. The guide tip is adapted to have a discharge bore aligned with the fiber tip to define an unobstructed light pathway from the fiber tip to the tissue surface.

Abstract: A laser tip, and method for the use thereof, is described for utilization in medical and dental applications. Specifically, a tip with an increased photoacoustic wave emission capability is formed by beveling the tip and further enhanced by stripping the adjacent sheath. Preferably, this conic and/or stripped tip section is surface modified, for example, by texturing, derivatization or metalization. In the field of endodontics the tip is inserted into a solution that has been introduced into a root canal and the pulsed laser is fired. The resulting generation of an enhanced photoacoustic wave propagates through the solution. These photoacoustic waves turbulently clean the interior of the root and lateral canal systems and/or causes cell lysis and dissolution of inorganics in biotic systems.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved methods and apparatus for skin treatment. The apparatus includes multiple sources of optical energy or several blades that are scanned along a region of skin to form micro-line patterns of damaged tissue. The micro-lines are small in at least one dimension, having a width of less than about 1 mm, and the wounded regions promote beneficial results by stimulation of wound healing and tissue remodeling.

Abstract: An apparatus for aesthetic manipulation of the skin having a large pulsator with plurality of light emitting diodes of at least two different wavelengths and a small pulsator with one light emitting diode. A frequency modulating means automatically modulates the emitting frequency of the light emitting diodes to a plurality of different frequencies. A power output modulating means modulates the power output of the light emitting diodes. A phase switching means allows selection between a plurality of operating phases, each operating phase operating the frequency modulating means and power output modulating means in a different predetermined manner. Calibration means connected in circuit with the light emitting diodes calibrates the power output of the light emitting diodes. A vibration means vibrates the large pulsator. A vibration switching means selectively activates the vibration means.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for improved biostimulative effect through the use of low mode/oligomode fibers to transport coherent light to a treatment site. Oligomode fibers or groups/bundles of oligomode waveguides for the relevant irradiation wavelength are used for radiation transport. Selective leakage of the radiation from this delivery system is achieved at the desired application sites of the biostimulation by suitable means, one being evanescent wave decouplers. The result is a low intensity exposure of coherent light to tissue or organic material that is more effective than conventional biostimulative procedures. Delivery systems based on such waveguides can cover large areas due to the low transmission losses of the waveguide. The waveguide can be inserted into hydrocultures or earth to provide radiation and thus biostimulation of seeds and cuttings in situ. Coherent radiation can also improve the health, healing and fertility of animals.

Abstract: An apparatus for laser depilation according to the present invention uses a semiconductor laser diode, which is controlled in respect of its energy level, thereby permitting an economical, effective and safe cosmetic treatment. The power output of light of the semiconductor laser diode ranges from 5 to 1500 mW, and the peak wavelength ranges from 600 to 1600 nm. The controller of the semiconductor laser diode comprises pulsating power output control means and radiation period control means for setting a desired length of time for radiation. With these control means the energy level of the beam of light from the laser may be so controlled that a strong beam of light may be thrown for a relatively short time, or that a weak beam of light may be thrown for a relatively long time. Thus, hairs of different thickness and colors can be removed.

Abstract: A laser treatment apparatus for performing treatment by irradiating an affected part with a laser beam comprises: a laser source capable of emitting beams of a plurality of different wavelengths; a first setting unit which sets an irradiation amount of a laser beam for treatment of a wavelength to be used for treatment; an emission amount changing unit which changes an emission amount of the beam in plural levels; an attenuating unit which attenuates the beam emitted by the laser source; and a control part which controls the emission amount changing unit and the attenuating unit based on the set irradiation amount of the treatment beam.

Abstract: A coolant delivery system of an apparatus in one example creates a layer of coolant over a target area. The target area comprises at least one carious region. A laser generator of the apparatus directs a laser beam to the target area to ablate the at least one carious region. The laser generator operates substantially simultaneously with the coolant delivery system to direct the laser beam through the layer of coolant to the target area. The layer of coolant cools the target area to reduce thermal damage from the laser beam.

Abstract: A medical laser is described that contains a modulator or saturable absorber. The laser produces output optical energy suitable for cutting tissue while minimizing wasted output optical energy that could result in unnecessary pain to a patient. The medical laser described enables efficient, effective cutting of tissue.

Abstract: A system and method for providing light treatments to a patients skin, which could include both dermal and epidermal regions. The system and method utilize multiple hand pieces where each hand piece can deliver light from a different light source. The system and method provide for control over the different light source corresponding to the different hand pieces based on whether the hand pieces are held in storage positions in a hand piece management unit. A control unit of the system provides operates to cause a user interface display to communicate information to a user based on the positions of the different hand pieces. Further, the system and method can provide a user with access to different aspects of the systems operation based on the positions of the hand pieces.

Abstract: A fluid conditioning system is adapted to condition the fluid used in medical and dental cutting, irrigating, evacuating, cleaning, and drilling operations. The fluid may be conditioned by adding flavors, antiseptics and/or tooth whitening agents such as peroxide, medications, and pigments. In addition to the direct benefits obtained from introduction of these agents, the laser cutting properties may be varied from the selective introduction of the various agents.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electromotive actuator and a corresponding circuit in order to replace a pneumatical actuator system in a simple manner by an electric system.

Abstract: A system that can be used to perform an ophthalmic procedure. The system may include a patient support that supports a patient and a light source which can direct a beam of light onto the patient's cornea. The system may also include an airflow module that directs a flow of air above the cornea. The flow of air reduces the amount of contaminants that may become attached to the cornea during the procedure.

Abstract: A hand-held laser device includes a casing formed with a substantially hollow interior space and having a laser emitter thereinside. The laser emitter is formed with an exciting lamp and a laser rod. A source generating a stream of gaseous coolant is provided within the interior space. A fluid cooling arrangement at least partially surrounding the laser rod is disposed within the stream of gaseous coolant for heat removal therefrom.

Abstract: A laser light therapy treatment probe, having an internal control circuit, and a manual control, a connection to a power supply, and a laser light treatment source, whereby the laser light treatment probe, and may be plugged into a supply of electrical power, and having an on/off switch connected between the control circuit and the laser light treatment source, and wherein the laser light source is switched on, for example by pressing the probe against the skin.

Abstract: A device for moving a therapeutic energy source over an area to be treated including at least one therapeutic energy source adapted to produce therapeutic energy and coupled to a mounting structure, and at least one moving unit connected to the mounting structure and adapted to move the mounting structure and the energy source coupled thereto over an area to be exposed to therapeutic energy.

Abstract: The present invention provides method and apparatus for treating tissue in a region at depth while protecting non-targeted tissue by cyclically applying cooling to the patients skin, and preferably to the region, and by applying radiation to the patient's skin above the region to selectively heat tissue during and/or after cooling is applied. At least one of cooling and radiation my be applied by successivly passing a continuous output applicator over the patient's skin. Treatment may also be enhanced by applying mechanical, acoustic or electrical stimulation to the region.

Abstract: The acne treatment devices use an array of LEDs, which emit monochromatic light substantially at a wavelength of 405 nanometers, which is coincident with the peak absorbance of light by acne porphyrins. The emitted light is directed from the light source to an acne area of the skin. The device can either be hand-held, with the LEDs mounted on a handle portion, or an LED can be mounted on a patch-like mounting element, which is adapted to be secured to the skin for longer exposure at less intensity.

Abstract: A corneal surgery apparatus capable of irradiating a laser beam at a desired position on a cornea more accurately. The apparatus has an optical system for irradiating a laser beam onto a cornea, a unit which moves an irradiation position of the beam relative to an eye, a unit having an element for picking up an image of an anterior-segment, which processes an image signal from the element to detect a characteristic point in the image, a unit which stores positional information on the characteristic point when the eye is in a predetermined reference state, a unit which detects duction condition of the eye based on positional information on the characteristic point when the eye is in a surgery state and that being stored, and a unit which controls the moving unit based on a detection result of the duction detection unit.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a devices and methods for killing and/or debilitating pathogenic microorganisms in or on a patient's body, such as light-sensitive bacteria including helicobacter pylori and/or propionibacterium acnes. A chemiluminescent light source provides electromagnetic radiation having predetermined wavelengths in the visible spectrum. The light wavelengths are selected for absorption by naturally-occurring photosensitive chemicals produced by the patient's body.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for photodisrupting a surface in the stroma of an eye at a substantially constant distance from the anterior surface of the eye. A frame of reference is established for the eye that includes an axis of rotation. Next, the focal point of a laser beam is positioned in the stroma at a radial distance from the axis. At least one laser pulse is delivered to the stromal tissue at the focal point, photodisrupting the tissue there and creating a photodisruption bubble having a diameter “d”. The focal point is then rotated about the axis through an arc length substantially equal to “d” and the photodisruption step is repeated. During rotation, the distance between the focal point and the axis is decreased at a rate substantially equal to the distance “d” per revolution. The method can be used to create a flap for a LASIK type procedure.

Abstract: A closed-loop control system for altering the optical characteristics of a patient's cornea includes an algorithm for predicting the shape of the cornea after one or more gas bubbles resulting from intrastromal photoablation have collapsed. Patient data can be used as an input for the algorithm, which is then run to prepare an initial treatment plan for a corneal alteration. The initial plan typically includes a plurality of intrastromal photoablation locations and corresponding ablation energies. After photoablation of plan location(s) and before the resulting bubbles collapse, a real-time wavefront shape for light passing through the cornea is measured. The wavefront is then used in the algorithm to predict a post bubble collapse cornea shape and to generate an updated treatment plan. The procedure then continues by ablating location(s) identified in the updated treatment plan. Wavefront measurement and plan updating can be repeated as many times as desired.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of displacing an area of the macula of an eye, including the steps of placing a substance below the surface of the retina, folding the retina to form a folded portion of the retina, and affixing the folded portion, so that the folded portion substantially maintains a folded shape.

Abstract: A platform Smart Scalpel system using rapid real-time feedback for effecting laser treatment. The platform system includes an imaging system for rapid real-time detection of tissue characteristics, a processing system for processing the detected characteristics, and a treatment system for effecting treatment in accordance with results of the processing. The platform system provides for preprogramming and real-time inputting conditions and parameters for diagnosis using the imaging system and/or treatment using the treatment system.

Abstract: A laser depilating method for depilating treatment by irradiating a skin surface with a laser beam emitted from a semiconductor laser. A treatment region of the skin surface is treated with a semiconductor laser beam for an irradiation time of 100 msec or more per irradiation while controlling the laser beam so that the energy density when irradiating the skin surface may be in a range of 0.01–1 J/mm2. Irradiation of the skin surface with a semiconductor laser beam under such a condition provides a more secure and efficient treatment effect of laser depilation. A plurality of semiconductor laser beams are used as necessary to irradiate a wider area of skin surface at a time.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating an atherosclerotic target region of a coronary vessel in a patient are disclosed. The method includes delivering to the patient, a photoatherolytic compound, to cause accumulation of the compound in the target region, accessing the target region intraluminally with a guidewire, and advancing over the guidewire, a catheter having (i) a proximal main-body sleeve, (ii) a flexible, non-inflatable, translucent distal-end sleeve joined to the main-body sleeve at a catheter juncture, and (iii) an inner lumen extending through the two sleeves, said advancing being effective to position the catheter's distal-end sleeve within the target region. The guidewire is then removed and replaced by a fiber-optic bundle having a light-diffusing tip, until said tip is positioned adjacent the catheter juncture.

Abstract: Presbyopia is treated by a method which uses ablative lasers to ablate the sclera tissue and increase the accommodation of the ciliary body. Tissue bleeding is prevented by an ablative laser having a wavelength of between 0.15 and 3.2 micron. A scanning system is proposed to perform various patterns on the sclera area of the cornea to treat presbyopia and to prevent other eye disorder such as glaucoma. Laser parameters are determined for accurate sclera expansion. REEXAMINATION RESULTS The questions raised in reexamination request no. 90/006,090, filed Aug. 22, 2001, have been considered and the results thereof are reflected in this reissue patent which constitutes the reexamination certificate required by 35 U.S.C. 307 as provided in 37 CFR 1.570(e), for ex parte reexaminations, or the reexamination certificate required by 35 U.S.C. 316 as provided in 37 CFR 1.997(e) for inter partes reexaminations.

Abstract: A method and surgical technique for corneal reshaping and for presbyopia correction are provided. The preferred embodiments of the system consists of a scanner, a beam spot controller and coupling fibers and the basic laser having a wavelength of (190-310) nm, (0.5-3.2) microns and (5.6-6.2) microns and a pulse duration of about (10-150) nanoseconds, (10-500) microseconds and true continuous wave. New mid-infrared gas lasers are provided for the corneal reshaping procedures. Presbyopia is treated by a method which uses ablative laser to ablate the sclera tissue and increase the accommodation of the ciliary body. The tissue bleeding is prevented by a dual-beam system having ablative and coagulation lasers. The preferred embodiments include short pulse ablative lasers (pulse duration less than 200 microseconds) with wavelength range of (0.15-3.2) microns and the long pulse (longer than 200 microseconds) coagulative lasers at (0.5-10.6) microns.