Systems Patents (Class 606/10)
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Publication number: 20110009852Abstract: A laser protection device that can stay tightly on an animal by going over its head and eyes using a flexible material such as nylon. The device has polymer or glass windows that are designed to block or attenuate the treatment light in order to protect the eyes of the animal from laser damage. As an integral feature, the windows are partially transparent in the visible spectrum to allow the animal to see its surroundings.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2010Publication date: January 13, 2011Applicant: BWT PROPERTY, INC.Inventors: Brian Pryor, SEAN XIAOLU WANG
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Patent number: 7867224Abstract: A laser system has a laser source generating a laser beam, wherein the laser source is adapted for medical removal of body tissue by the laser beam within a predetermined treatment contour. A guide frame in the shape of the treatment contour is provided. A scanner is provided for completely scanning a base surface of the guide frame with the laser beam, wherein the scanner is arranged between the laser source and the guide frame in a path of the laser beam.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2008Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: Fotona d.d.Inventors: Matjaz Lukac, Marko Marincek, Marko Kazic, Karolj Nemes
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Patent number: 7867223Abstract: A method for treating presbyopia utilizes an Erbium based, pulsed laser to sever sub-conjunctival strictures located within the scleral matrix of the eye. Introduction of treatment energy into the scleral matrix increases or facilitates an increase in accommodation, thereby mitigating the effects of presbyopia. The treatment energy can be directed into the scleral matrix to form tunnel ablations in and through the strictures of the scleral matrix. The tunnel ablations can enhance the accommodation of the patient's eye, enabling the eye to refocus at near distances while not losing its ability to focus at a distance.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2007Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: Biolase Technology, Inc.Inventor: Marcia Angela Van Valen
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Patent number: 7862555Abstract: In a fractional treatment system, an adjustable mechanism can be used to adjust the beam shape, beam numerical aperture, beam focus depth, and/or beam size to affect the treatment depth and or the character of the resulting lesions. Adjustment of these parameters can improve the efficiency and efficacy of treatment. Illustrative examples of adjustable mechanisms include a set of spacers of different lengths, a rotatable turret with lens elements of different focal distances, an optical zoom lens, and a mechanical adjustment apparatus for adjusting the spacing between two optical lens elements. In one aspect, the fractional treatment is configured with a laser wavelength that is selected such that absorption of the laser wavelength within the tissue decreases as the tissue is heated by the laser (e.g., 1480-1640 nm).Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2007Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: Reliant TechnologiesInventors: Kin F. Chan, George Frangineas, David Dewey, Leonard C. DeBenedictis
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Patent number: 7862556Abstract: A surgical system that ablates soft tissue. The system may include a fiber laser oscillator as the gain medium that emits electromagnetic radiation. The system may process the electromagnetic radiation, and direct the electromagnetic radiation on to the soft tissue to be ablated. Due at least in part to the nature of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the fiber laser oscillator, the system may provide various enhancements, such as a higher power conversion efficiency, a longer lifetime, less heat dissipation, a more compact design, and/or other enhancements, for example. The system may also generate electromagnetic radiation with a relatively high beam quality. This may reduce beam divergence and beam spot size on targeted soft tissue, thereby enhancing power density in the electromagnetic radiation guided to the soft tissue. This enhanced power density may facilitate effective ablation.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2006Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: Applied Harmonics CorporationInventors: Liyue Mu, Ming Lai, Kangze Cai, Weiguo Luo
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Publication number: 20100312054Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided including identifying a subject as suffering from a disorder of an organ of the subject. In response to the identifying, a shaft is inserted into the organ, not via a natural lumen of the subject. Using a laser beam emitted from a distal portion of the shaft, a portion of the organ is ablated. A vicinity of the portion of the organ is cooled by introducing a fluid to the vicinity, and, subsequently aspirating the fluid therefrom, the introduction and aspiration of the fluid being performed via the shaft, while the shaft is inside the organ. Other embodiments are also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2010Publication date: December 9, 2010Applicant: N.M.B. Medical Applications Ltd.Inventors: Mordechay Beyar, Oren Globerman, Benad Goldwasser, Hila Wachsler-Avrahami, Ofer Nativ, Ronen Shavit
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Patent number: 7846191Abstract: A system and method to control non-coherent pulsed light, the system including a lamp to produce non-coherent light energy in a pulsed mode, a current supply to provide energy to the system, and a switching module to control the spectral distribution and/or light intensity in the non-coherent pulsed light energy during a pulse of non-coherent light. The system may include a controller unit to control pulse parameters for a selected treatment, based on illumination data received from the light sensor. The system may include one or more changeable filters to modulate the pulses supplied to the lamp during a pulse.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2004Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Assignee: Lumenis Ltd.Inventors: Boris Vaynberg, Haim Epshtein, Shimon Panfil, Yoni Iger
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Patent number: 7846152Abstract: The present invention provides improved methods and systems for laser beam positioning, shape profile, size profile, drift, and/or deflection calibration using an image capture device, such as a microscope camera, for enhanced calibration accuracy and precision. The methods and systems are particularly suited for iris calibration and hysteresis measurement of a variable diameter aperture. One method for calibrating laser pulses from a laser eye surgery system using an image capture device comprises imaging a known object with an image capture device. A pulsed laser beam is directed onto a calibration surface so as to leave a mark on the calibration surface. The mark on the calibration surface is then imaged with the image capture device. The laser eye surgery system is calibrated by comparing the image of the mark on the calibration surface to the image of the known object.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2004Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Assignee: AMO Manufacturing USA, LLC.Inventors: Dimitri A. Chernyak, Keith Holliday, Mathew Clopp
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Publication number: 20100305555Abstract: A method and apparatus for ablating material. The material is preferably a heterogenous or composite material, such as animal tissue. A table top laser system can be employed in the invention. Alternatively, a larger laser, such as a free electron laser can be employed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2010Publication date: December 2, 2010Inventors: Michael Shane Hutson, Glenn S. Edwards
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Patent number: 7842075Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2007Date of Patent: November 30, 2010Inventors: Fred Kahn, Eli Hacco, Mark Anthony Peter Slonchka
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Patent number: 7842030Abstract: In a device for detecting eye movements, used in an eye-surgical instrument, which deflects a pulsed treatment laser beam over the cornea in order to form cut areas in the cornea of the eye, and thus forms a sequence of optical breakthroughs in or on the cornea, wherein an optical unit is provided for monitoring the cornea, it is provided that the optical unit monitors the position of at least one optical breakthrough generated in the cornea and recognizes an eye movement on the basis of a migration movement of the monitored optical breakthrough.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2005Date of Patent: November 30, 2010Assignee: Carl Zeiss Meditec AGInventor: Dirk Muhlhoff
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Patent number: 7842029Abstract: Devices and methods having a cooling material and reduced pressures to treat biological external tissue using at least one energy source are disclosed. The cooling material may be water, ethyl alcohol, and/or any other material having a vapor pressure below atmospheric pressure. The energy source may be incoherent light, coherent light, a radio frequency, ultrasound, a laser, and/or any other type of energy that can be applied through the device. The features of various embodiments of the device include the generation of positive pressure and/or negative pressure through one or more pressure conduits, the application of an object within a recess of the device, and measurements through various sensors on the device. These sensors may be monitored and/or controlled through a display element having rows and columns of pixels on the device.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2004Date of Patent: November 30, 2010Assignee: AestheraInventors: Robert S. Anderson, Alon Maor, Steve Young
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Patent number: 7836892Abstract: A method for controlling a device for the treatment or refractive correction of the human eye using an electronic data processing system. The method provides a simple overview of the influence of all of the parameters. To this end, once the operating parameters have been determined, a graphical simulation of the operating procedure is carried out in the form of a graphical visualization.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2003Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: Carl Zeiss Meditec AGInventors: Manfred Dick, Holger Maeusezahl, Dan Reinstein, Eckhard Schroeder, Hartmut Vogelsang
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Patent number: 7836893Abstract: Systems and methods provide for stabilizing the amount of laser energy delivered to a target from a laser device. Generally, delivered laser energy is measured over multiple laser pulses or over time in the case of a constant wave laser. A decrease is then calculated in the delivered energy, the decrease being caused by accumulation of one or more substances, such as ozone, along the laser beam delivery path due to passage of the laser beam along the path. Using this calculated decrease, a laser device may be adjusted to compensate for the decrease in delivered energy due to the accumulated substance(s), thus stabilizing the amount of energy delivered to the target.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2005Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: AMO Manufacturing USA, LLCInventor: Keith Holliday
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Publication number: 20100286674Abstract: Provided herein are devices, systems and methods for imaging of biological tissue. Also provided are devices, systems and methods for surgical manipulation of biological tissue. Further provided are devices, systems and methods for combined imaging and surgical manipulation of biological tissue.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2009Publication date: November 11, 2010Applicants: BOARD OF REGENTS, THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SYSTEM, BOARD OF TRUSSTESS OF THE LELAND STANFORD JUNIOR UInventors: Adela Ben-Yakar, Christopher L. Hoy, Olav Solgaard
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Patent number: 7824395Abstract: A method and apparatus for thermal treatment of tissue by irradiating the skin with electromagnetic energy is disclosed. Sources of electromagnetic energy include radio frequency (RF) generators, lasers, and flashlamps. The apparatus includes either a positional sensor or a dosage evaluation sensor, or both types of sensors. These sensors provide feedback to a controller. The controller may control the electromagnetic source parameters, the electromagnetic source activation, and/or the sensor measurement parameters. An additional scanning delivery unit may be operably coupled to the controller or to the sensors to provide a controlled distribution of electromagnetic energy to the target region of the skin. The use of positional measurement sensors and dosage evaluation sensors permits the controller to automatically determine the proper electromagnetic source parameters including, for example, pulse timing and pulse frequency.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2006Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Reliant Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Kin F. Chan, George Frangineas, Leonard C. DeBenedictis, Robert Kehl Sink
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Patent number: 7815631Abstract: An orientation method for corrective eye surgery that registers pairs of eye images taken at different times and with the patient in different positions includes retrieving reference digital image data on an eye of the patient, including image data on an extracorneal eye feature. Real-time image data are collected that include image data on the extracorneal eye feature. A combined image is displayed of a superposition of the data sets, and a determination is made as to whether the combined image indicates an adequate registration between them based upon the extracorneal eye feature data in the two data sets. If the registration is not adequate, one of the data sets is manipulated until an adequate registration is achieved. A system is directed to apparatus and software for orienting a corrective program for eye surgery.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2004Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: Alcon RefractiveHorizons, Inc.Inventors: Gary P. Gray, John A. Campin
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Patent number: 7817687Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2008Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: Biolase Technology, Inc.Inventors: Ioana M. Rizoiu, Andrew I. Kimmel
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Publication number: 20100262129Abstract: A system and method is provided for improving the visibility of hair on the skin surface, in a region that is bloodied or bruised, and potentially expanding the candidate pool of the hair grafts to be selected for harvesting. The system uses a light source comprising at least two emitters and the method comprises controlling the contrast between the image of the blood and the image of the skin surface. The method of the present invention may be implemented with various hair harvesting and transplantation systems, including manual, partially automated and fully automated systems.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2010Publication date: October 14, 2010Inventors: Robert N. Roy, Shehrzad A. Qureshi
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Patent number: 7811280Abstract: Systems and method for determining ablation beam characteristics are provided. Methods include ablating an article with the ablation beam to form a test location having an ablation depth, transmitting a first beam through the test location of the article, transmitting a second beam through a reference location, and determining an ablation beam characteristic based on a phase relationship of the first beam and the second beam downstream of the article. Systems include a light source assembly transmitting a first beam through an ablated test location of an article and a second beam through a reference location disposed outside of the test location, a sensor assembly detecting a first beam and second beam superimposition downstream of the article, and a phase relationship code module for determining a phase relationship between the first beam and the second beam, based on the first beam and second beam superimposition.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2006Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: AMO Manufacturing USA, LLC.Inventor: Leander Zickler
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Patent number: 7813788Abstract: A handheld confocal imaging system for in vivo observation of dermal and subdermal tissue allows diagnosis of conditions substantially beneath the surface of the skin. A confocal head has optics which scan the tissue so as to provide images of vertical sections of the tissue. Both two and three dimensional imaging may be provided for diagnosis and location of basal cell carcinomas and melanomas, and so as to enable visualization of tumor borders prior to excision.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2004Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: Lucid, Inc.Inventors: James M. Zavislan, Jay M. Eastman
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Patent number: 7780652Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2007Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Assignee: Cutera, Inc.Inventors: Dean A. MacFarland, Richard Canant, David A. Gollnick, Greg Spooner, Kevin P. Connors
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Publication number: 20100198200Abstract: In various embodiments, a device (such as a surgical footswitch, handpiece, etc.) and a surgical console may be used by an operator during a surgical procedure and/or in an office. The device may communicate with the surgical console to receive information associated with a procedure (e.g., information relative to the device, console, or other equipment used in a surgical procedure). In some embodiments, the information may be determined/generated at the device (i.e. and not necessarily received from the surgical console). Based on the information, a configuration may be determined (e.g., at the device, at the console, etc.) for one or more indicators on the device to provide at least part of the information to the operator of the device. The at least one indicator on the device may thus be illuminated to provide the operator at least part of the information associated with the procedure.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 26, 2010Publication date: August 5, 2010Inventor: Christopher Horvath
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Patent number: 7766903Abstract: Patterned laser treatment of the retina is provided. A visible alignment pattern having at least two separated spots is projected onto the retina. By triggering a laser subsystem, doses of laser energy are automatically provided to at least two treatment locations coincident with the alignment spots. All of the doses of laser energy may be delivered in less than about 1 second, which is a typical eye fixation time. A scanner can be used to sequentially move an alignment beam from spot to spot on the retina and to move a treatment laser beam from location to location on the retina.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2003Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior UniversityInventors: Mark S. Blumenkranz, Daniel V. Palanker, Dimitri Yellachich
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Patent number: 7763017Abstract: A method of scanning a laser beam across a set of cells includes during a first interval, scanning a laser beam across a set of cells; and during a second interval, deflecting the laser beam away from the set of cells. The first interval is selected to cause microcavitation in at least a portion of the cells from the set of cells.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2006Date of Patent: July 27, 2010Assignee: The General Hospital CorporationInventor: Charles P. Lin
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Publication number: 20100179522Abstract: The disclosed invention is a unique, patient-friendly, laser-based tumor ablation system for the removal of malignant tumors of the prostate and, with modified delivery systems, may have application for other areas of the human body. The disclosed invention is an integrated, robotic treatment subsystem that takes advantage of the capabilities of the previously disclosed MedSci Detection, Mapping and Confirmation System, for the purpose of providing a patient friendly system and method for removing tumors detected by said diagnostic system. The invention is a laser-based endosurgical thermal treatment system that utilizes historical cancer mapping data together with real-time ultrasonic and other data to reliably target and control the eradication of cancer conditions. The system contains computer aided robotic control such that control of the boundary, size, position and orientation of the ablated volume of tissue has a tolerance of less than a millimeter.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 4, 2010Publication date: July 15, 2010Inventors: John Alexander Companion, Bobby Gale Batten
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Patent number: 7736382Abstract: A nerve-stimulation device and method using light to provide a source of precise stimulation on one or more nerve fibers. In some embodiments, this simulation is provided through a device and method wherein a laser- or LED-light-generating source is operatively coupled to an optical fiber, which in turn is coupled to a plug in the end of a holder in a sheath. Light is then passed from the light source through the optical fiber to the holder and out a selected optical tip on the sheath to provide an efficacious amount of light to simulate nerves. In some embodiments, the device is constructed from non-magnetic material such as glass, plastic or ceramics. In some embodiments, the light emanating from the optical tip can be controlled manually or automatically. Some embodiments omit the fiber and use light directly from the laser diode.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2005Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: James S. Webb, Charles E. Hamilton, Heather A. Ralph, Mark P. Bendett, Charles A. Lemaire
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Publication number: 20100137851Abstract: A laser surgical apparatus is provided. The laser surgical apparatus includes a laser generator, a laser delivery module for delivering a laser beam to biological tissues, a fluid source, a fluid delivery module for delivering a fluid to the biological tissues, and a control module for controlling all the above units.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2009Publication date: June 3, 2010Applicant: INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTEInventors: Shih-Ting Lin, Hsin-Chia Su, Li-Ting Wang, Hong-Xi Cao, Chieh Hu
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Patent number: 7721743Abstract: The invention involves a device and a procedure for refractive laser surgery on a target object. With the aid of a laser beam source, an fs-impulse laser beam is generated. A second laser beam source generates a UV laser beam. A shared scanner device utilizes the fs-impulse laser beam and the UV laser beam for the scanning of the target object.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2003Date of Patent: May 25, 2010Assignee: Katana Technologies GmbHInventors: Matthias Lenzner, Georg Korn, Olaf Kittelmann
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Patent number: 7721742Abstract: A novel approach to diagnostic and therapeutic interventions in the peritoneal cavity is described. More specifically, a technique for accessing the peritoneal cavity via the wall of the digestive tract is provided so that examination of and/or a surgical procedure in the peritoneal cavity can be conducted via the wall of the digestive tract with the use of a flexible endoscope. As presently proposed, the technique is particularly adapted to transgastric peritoneoscopy. However, access in addition or in the alternative through the intestinal wall is contemplated and described as well. Transgastric and/or transintestinal peritoneoscopy will have an excellent cosmetic result as there are no incisions in the abdominal wall and no potential for visible post-surgical scars or hernias.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2001Date of Patent: May 25, 2010Assignee: Johns Hopkins UniversityInventors: Anthony Nicolas Kalloo, Sergey Veniaminovich Kantsevoy
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Patent number: 7717906Abstract: A system and method for performing ophthalmic surgery requires splitting a laser beam into a pattern having a plurality of focal points. The pattern is then moved along a spiral path according to a predetermined, two-phase protocol. In the first phase, a radial spacing “?r” between spiral lines, and the velocity of the pattern “r?” are held constant as the radius “r” is decreased from r1 to r2. In the second phase the angular velocity “?” is held constant and the radial spacing “?r” is proportionally increased as “r” is further decreased from r2 to r3. Additional LIOB is required both inside r3, as r is reduced to zero and, then, along the periphery of the treatment area for a rim cut at r1.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2007Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Assignee: Technolas Perfect Vision GmbHInventor: Josef Bille
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Patent number: 7713265Abstract: Apparatus for medically treating a tattoo includes a scanned light beam unit having a light beam source assembly adapted to emit light pulses at different wavelengths, a scanner, light detector(s), and a controller operatively connected to the light beam source assembly and the scanner. The controller is adapted: to control the scanned light beam unit to illuminate a first light-pulse-sized region of the tattoo using the light beam source assembly at different wavelengths and at relatively low power; to use the light detector(s) to detect a least-reflecting wavelength of the illumination of the first light-pulse-sized region of the tattoo; and to control the scanned light beam unit to medically treat the first light-pulse-sized region of the tattoo using the light beam source assembly at a wavelength substantially equal to the least-reflecting wavelength and at relatively high power. A method is disclosed for medically treating a tattoo which uses the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2006Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.Inventor: Robert J. Dunki-Jacobs
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Publication number: 20100106144Abstract: A puncture device 21 comprises capacitors 24 and 33 to which voltage is applied, a laser puncture unit 25 to which the output of these capacitors 24 and 33 is supplied, a trigger circuit 30 that applies a trigger voltage to the laser puncture unit 25, and a controller 35 that controls this trigger circuit 30. The puncture device 21 further comprises switches 29 and 32 that switch the connection of the capacitors 24 and 33. The switches 29 and 32 are controlled by the controller 35 so as to carry out a first puncture, which is performed with the capacitors 24 and 33 connected in parallel, and a second puncture, which is performed with the capacitors 24 and 33 connected in series.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2009Publication date: April 29, 2010Inventors: Keisuke Matsumura, Kiyohiro Horikawa
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Patent number: 7682024Abstract: A saccadic motion detector comprised an optical system that focuses light reflected or emitted from the subject's eye onto an optical navigation chip, which connects to circuitry configured to convert analog light from the eye to digital representations motion of the eye, including saccadic eye movement.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2004Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Inventors: Charles P. Plant, William T. Denman, Craig A. McKeown, Kenneth C. Humphries
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Publication number: 20100030202Abstract: A device for the treatment of BPH, including a laser diode module for generating laser radiation with a peak wave length in the range of 920 to 960 nm and an average output power of more than 200 W. The device can operate in a continuous wave mode and can include an optical application fiber for guiding the laser radiation generated with the laser diode module to human prostate tissue such that a spot size of laser radiation at the human prostate tissue is between 0.8 mm2 and 1.5 mm2, and a penetration depth of the laser radiation in the human prostate tissue is between 3 mm and 6 mm. The device is capable of creating a thermally damaged layer with a thickness between 3.5 mm to 6 mm. The invention also includes a corresponding method with a high three dimensional vaporization rate and a method for ablating tissue.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2008Publication date: February 4, 2010Inventors: Markus Rheinwald, Werner Hiereth
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Patent number: 7655002Abstract: Methods for the creation of microspheres treat the clear, intact crystalline lens of the eye with energy pulses, such as from lasers, for the purpose of correcting presbyopia, other refractive errors, and for the retardation and prevention of cataracts. Microsphere formation in non-contiguous patterns or in contiguous volumes works to change the flexure, mass, or shape of the crystalline lens in order to maintain or reestablish the focus of light passing through the ocular lens onto the macular area, and to maintain or reestablish fluid transport within the ocular lens.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2004Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Assignee: Second Sight Laser Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Raymond I. Myers
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Publication number: 20100016841Abstract: An apparatus is provided for irradiating at least a portion of a patient's brain with electromagnetic radiation to treat stroke, Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, or depression. The apparatus includes a source of the electromagnetic radiation. The apparatus further includes an output optical element including a rigid and substantially thermally conductive material and a surface configured to be in thermal communication with the patient's body. The apparatus further includes a cooler thermally coupled to the output optical element to remove heat from the output optical element. The apparatus further includes a heat sink thermally coupled to the cooler, wherein the heat sink is positioned so that the electromagnetic radiation from the source propagates through the heat sink and through the output optical element.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2009Publication date: January 21, 2010Inventors: Luis De Taboada, Jackson Streeter
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Publication number: 20100010482Abstract: A device and method for tumor destruction by photodynamic therapy (PDT) is highly effective in that both the tumor cells themselves and the vasculature feeding the tumor are attacked in a single treatment. Local and systemic methods are used for injecting the photosensitizer (PS) into the tumor as well as vasculature. This combination brings about cellular and vascular destruction more effectively. In the first step, an initial PS dosage is administered locally to the tumor and allowed to achieve near-optimal tumor penetration. A second PS dosage is then administered systemically at a predetermined time after the first dosage and allowed to penetrate the tumor's vascular system for a period of time sufficient to produce a relatively high or otherwise predetermined concentration of PS in the vasculature.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2009Publication date: January 14, 2010Inventor: Wolfgang Neuberger
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Publication number: 20090312752Abstract: A smoke evacuating apparatus including a nose component having a centrally positioned receptacle for receiving and supporting the tip of a medical laser device and including a chamber through which smoke generated by the laser may be evacuated, a body component removably attachable to the nose component and including a centrally mounted tube for receiving and supporting the laser and an internal smoke evacuating passageway for receiving smoke from the chamber and a vacuum hose providing a second internal passageway surrounding the laser for communicating with the first passageway and receiving smoke therefrom, the hose including a first tube for sealably mounting a rearward portion of the laser and a second tube disposed at an angle to the first tube for attachment to a vacuum source.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2008Publication date: December 17, 2009Inventor: Zoran Djordjevich
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Patent number: 7630420Abstract: A laser device that includes a dual pulse-width laser-pumping circuit generates long and short laser pulses. The laser-pumping circuit employs a single power supply with dual high voltage outputs that are selectable under control of a user. The laser device conveniently generates long and short laser pulses or a mix of the two for performing specialized surgical procedures.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2005Date of Patent: December 8, 2009Assignee: Biolase Technology, Inc.Inventor: Dmitri Boutoussov
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Publication number: 20090299350Abstract: Disclosed is a method for the medical treatment of patients by means of a laser beam from a semiconductor laser or diode laser. In said method, the laser beam is to be applied to the area to be treated in the form of pulses.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 16, 2006Publication date: December 3, 2009Inventor: Olaf Schafer
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Patent number: 7618415Abstract: A device and method for steering a laser beam to a focal point in target tissue requires generating a laser beam. Diversions of the laser beam from a central beam path are minimized by a sequential arrangement of optical steering components. In order, the beam is first directed to the center of a z-scanning apparatus which will move the focal point in the medium in a z-direction. The beam is then passed to the center of a first galvanometric mirror which introduces focal point movements in the x-direction. A second galvanometric mirror then compensates for the x-direction movement by redirecting the beam to the center of a third galvanometric mirror where focal point movements in the y-direction are introduced.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2004Date of Patent: November 17, 2009Assignee: Technolas Perfect Vision GmbHInventors: Ralf Kessler, Frieder Loesel, Thomas Sauter
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Patent number: 7618414Abstract: A hair removal device (22) includes a cooling surface (34) which is used to contact the skin (6) prior to exposure to hair tissue-damaging laser light (74) passing from a radiation source (36) through a recessed window (46). The window is laterally offset from the cooling surface and is spaced apart from the cooling surface in a direction away from the patient's skin to create a gap between the window and the skin. The window preferably includes both an inner window (46) and an outer, user-replaceable window (48). The laser-pulse duration is preferably selected according to the general diameter of the hair.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2006Date of Patent: November 17, 2009Assignee: Cutera, Inc.Inventors: Kevin P. Connors, David A. Gollnick, Michael W. Sasnett
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Publication number: 20090275927Abstract: Disclosed is a surgical laser system. The system includes a laser generator to generate laser radiation to cause water absorption levels that approximate water absorption levels achieved with a CO2 laser, and one or more fibers coupled to the laser generator to deliver the generated laser radiation. In some embodiments, the laser generator is configured to generate radiation at multiple possible wavelengths in a range of between about 2.4 ?m to about 2.75 ?m.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2009Publication date: November 5, 2009Applicant: Lumenis Ltd.Inventors: Asa Fein, Alon Goldring
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Publication number: 20090264730Abstract: Systems, methods, and other embodiments associated with tracking an ablative device and monitoring an ablation produced by the ablative device are described. One example method includes acquiring a magnetic resonance (MR) image of an ablative device inserted in a body and selectively controlling positioning of the ablative device based, at least in part on the MR image. The MR image may be continuously provided in real-time by an interventional MR imaging apparatus programmed to image using a tri-orthogonal plane sequence. The method may also include acquiring an MR image of an ablation performed by the ablative device, and selectively controlling the ablative device based, at least in part, on the MR image. The MR image may also be provided by the IMRI apparatus operating according to a tri-orthogonal plane sequence. In one example, the ablation may treat hypopharyngeal obstructive sleep apnea by reducing tongue base volume.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2009Publication date: October 22, 2009Inventors: Sherif G. Nour, Jeffrey L. DUERK, Jamal J. Derakhshan
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Publication number: 20090259220Abstract: Systems disclosed herein contain a source for providing one or more energy sources as well as substances singly or in combination, and a kit containing a delivery device. The delivery device is configured to be releasably coupled to the source for delivering the energy as well as the substances to a location remote from the source which may include delivery for a patient.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2009Publication date: October 15, 2009Applicant: AngioDynamics, Inc.Inventors: William M. Appling, Robert M. Pearson, Kevin Moss, Shaily Bhargav, David A. Blau
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Publication number: 20090234344Abstract: A method for treating vascular disorders comprising the use of a pulse dye laser followed by the use of an Nd-YAG laser to affect a targeted vessel, said pulse dye laser and said Nd-YAG laser being utilized trans-dermally to said vessel and further comprising the method of using said pulse dye laser to deliver sufficient energy to the blood within said targeted vessel to convert a quantity of Hb to metHb so as to create sufficient heat within said targeted vessel when said metHb is affected by the energy delivered by said Nd-YAG laser.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2008Publication date: September 17, 2009Inventor: Timothy Lavender
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Publication number: 20090227997Abstract: A system and method for monitoring laser therapy of a target tissue include a therapeutic control unit having a first light source configured to deliver light to the target tissue for therapy, an ultrasonic transducer for receiving photoacoustic signals generated due to optical absorption of light energy by the target tissue, and a monitoring control unit in communication with the ultrasonic transducer for reconstructing photoacoustic tomographic images from the received photoacoustic signals to provide an optical energy deposition map of the target tissue. A second light source utilized for imaging may also be provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 19, 2007Publication date: September 10, 2009Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGANInventors: Xueding Wang, David Chamberland
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Publication number: 20090227991Abstract: A method and a corresponding system for removing material using laser radiation. The aim of the invention is to keep the laser beam cross-section free from contamination and to maintain constant ambient conditions at the site of removal during the removal process. Temperature and/or the humidity at the site of removal is maintained substantially constant a gas that is allowed to flow across the site of removal in a predetermined direction. The gas may have constant or varying temperatures, humidities and flow speeds during the removal process. The system may include a tubular channel through whose end a laser beam is incident on the surface of an object and removes material. A warm air current having a defined humidity is emitted from outlet openings of a flow channel that is linked with a conveyor via a connecting sleeve and is directed onto the site of removal.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2009Publication date: September 10, 2009Inventors: Manfred Dick, Jens Elbrecht, Eckhard Schroeder, Bernhard Seitz
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Publication number: 20090227995Abstract: 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 receive a first part of the first output beam and generate excitation in a rare-earth doped gain medium to produce the second output beam. The second output beam is for treating the skin.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2009Publication date: September 10, 2009Inventors: Jayant D. Bhawalkar, Christopher J. Jones, Herbert R. Otterson