Abstract: A method for removing tattoos using two laser beams and a multi-photon process is disclosed. A 0.1 to 100 nsec pulse secondary laser beam focused to 108 W/cm2 creates a temporary channel from the skin surface to the tattoo pigment. A 100 fsec pulse main laser beam is then guided through the channel to the pigment and focused to sufficient intensity, i.e., 1012 W/cm2 or more, to initiate a multi-photon process that breaks up the pigment, disrupting its light reflecting properties. The channel allows the main laser beam unobstructed passage to the pigments, resulting in efficient use of the main laser. The pigment fragments escape through the temporary channel or diffuse into the blood stream. A suitably configured Ti/Sapphire laser beam is split into two components, with an uncompressed component used as the secondary laser beam, and a compressed component as the main laser beam.

Abstract: A steerable laser probe may include an actuation structure, a nosecone fixed to the actuation structure by one or more links and one or more link pins, a housing tube having a first housing tube portion with a first stiffness and a second housing tube portion with a second stiffness, and an optic fiber disposed in the housing tube and the actuation structure. A compression of the actuation structure may be configured to gradually curve the housing tube and the optic fiber. A decompression of the actuation structure may be configured to gradually straighten the housing tube and the optic fiber.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an apparatus may include an optical fiber that may have a surface non-normal to a longitudinal axis of a distal end portion of the optical fiber. The surface may define a portion of an interface configured to redirect electromagnetic radiation propagated from within the optical fiber and incident on the interface to a direction offset from the longitudinal axis. The apparatus may also include a doped silica cap that may be fused to the optical fiber such that the surface of the optical fiber may be disposed within a cavity defined by the doped silica cap.

Abstract: The disclosure describes an elongated housing, e.g., a catheter, configured to be inserted into a lumen of a patient to diagnose or treat a patient. The elongated housing includes a scope channel that accepts a cystoscope and a viewing window at the distal end of the elongated housing. The user may use the cystoscope to view tissue adjacent to the viewing window. The viewing window may take up at least 10 percent of the length of the elongated housing to allow the user to identify a large area of tissue in the lumen without moving the elongated housing with respect to the tissue. Once the user identifies the target tissue, the user may position the elongated housing graduations on the viewing window and the proximal end of the elongated housing. An ablation needle electrode may be extended into the target tissue to deliver ablation therapy to the target tissue.

Abstract: Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may be a deflectable medical device that includes a catheter shaft having a distal end. An ablation electrode may be disposed at the distal end. A deflection mechanism may be coupled to the catheter shaft. The deflection mechanism may include a deflection body and a pull wire coupled to the deflection body. The deflection body may have a longitudinally-extending furrow formed therein. A flex member may be disposed adjacent to the deflection mechanism.

Abstract: A light-based method of endovascular treatment, in particular, of pathologically altered blood vessels. Provided are a Method of Endovascular Light Treatment and a corresponding Endovascular Light Application Device.

Abstract: A catheter is adapted to ablate tissue and provide lesion qualitative information on a real time basis, having an ablation tip section with a generally omni-directional light diffusion chamber with one openings to allow light energy in the chamber to radiate the tissue and return to the chamber. The chamber is irrigated at a positive pressure differential to continuously flush the opening with fluid. The light energy returning to the chamber from the tissue conveys a tissue parameter, including without limitation, lesion formation, depth of penetration of lesion, cross-sectional area of lesion, formation of char during ablation, recognition of char during ablation, recognition of char from non-charred tissue, formation of coagulum around the ablation site, differentiation of coagulated from non-coagulated blood, differentiation of ablated from healthy tissue, tissue proximity, and recognition of steam formation in the tissue for prevention of steam pop.

Abstract: Deep Tissue Low Intensity Laser Therapy or Treatment (DT-LILT) as described here is a novel methodology through which selective destruction of nociceptive (pain) nerves can be brought upon by a medical laser delivery system using the phenomenon of absorption and cell resonance. Using this method nerve cells that transmit pain can be selectively destroyed leaving the surrounding tissues intact as no heat is generated. The delivery system incorporates a fine needle through which a 703 nm (range 690 to 710) pulsed wave low intensity laser is delivered deep into the body, directly to the area of pain causing selective destruction of pain nerves. Laser devices based on this methodology should be used only by the physician or equivalent professional community since diagnosing and defining the area of pain is critical to providing successful pain relief.

Abstract: A handpiece and method of use for laser-assisted liposuction for melting, disrupting, and removing cellulite and adipose tissue. Electromagnetic energy is used to selectively melt or disrupt cellulite and adipose tissue and ablate the collagen in the constricting bands of connective tissue that causes the dimpled appearance of cellulite and adipose tissue, while avoiding damage to the surrounding fatty cells.

Abstract: The present invention relates to medical treatment devices. In particular, according to one embodiment, the present invention a medical treatment device that includes, for example, a tube member, a treatment member by way of which energy can be transmitted in connection with performance of a medical procedure, a sleeve, and a hub member. In this example, the treatment member is positioned within the tube member and the tube member thus affords a degree or protection to the treatment member. The combination of the treatment member and the tube member is configured to be partially received within, and secured by, the hub member. In particular, the hub member includes a securement portion and a delivery portion which are releasably attached to each other.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for monitoring the process performance of a laser system with a high-power optical fiber cable (3), specifically an optical fiber cable made for transmitting power levels up to and exceeding 20 kW. Generally the fiber cable has an entrance end (1) for an incident beam-light and an exit end (2) where the beam-light is leaving the optical fiber, and wherein at least one of the ends is provided with a connector device (4,5) having sensor means (14) for monitoring the optical fiber cable status. According to the invention the sensor means (14) are located inside the connector device (4,5) and arranged for monitoring and controlling a laser application process during action as well as detection of conditions within the connector device, such as scattered light, temperatures or the like.

Abstract: A voltage sensing apparatus on a semiconductor substrate, including one or more inputs comprising metal contacts, an output comprising a laser transmitter, circuitry electrically connecting and interfacing the inputs to the output; and a power module. A method of fabricating the apparatus is also described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for laser cladding of a curved surface comprising: (a) an elongated arm having first and second ends and defining a chamber through the arm from the first end to the second end; (b) a laser delivery source connected to a focusing lens mounted in a housing within an opening on the first end of the arm for delivering a laser beam through the chamber; (c) a delivery head mounted on the second end of the arm comprised of (i) an enclosure having an inlet for receiving the laser and an outlet for delivering the laser to the curved surface, (ii) a powder nozzle for delivering a cladding powder to an inner surface of the curved surface, and (iii) a reflective surface for reflecting the laser to exit through the outlet; (d) mounting means for rotating the curved surface for the cladding of the curved surface; and (e) indexing means for moving the arm substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the curved surface so as to clad the curved surface during the rotation of

Abstract: The efficacy and safety of laser medical treatments are ensured by performing a combination of measurement techniques to examine tissue properties in order to control characteristics of the laser treatments of cartilaginous tissues. In some aspects, a treatment tool is provided that is capable of taking and providing feedback relating to multiple measurements, including temperature measurements (in particular, radiometry), mechanical measurements, light scattering, speckle interferometry, optoacoustic measurements, and monitoring tissue electrical characteristics. The device is capable of providing feedback during the course of laser treatment of tissue to increase the safety and efficacy of treatment.

Abstract: An apparatus for performing a microwave ablation procedure is provided. The apparatus includes a catheter including an open proximal end and a closed distal end configured to percutaneously access tissue. A directional microwave antenna probe adapted to connect to a source of microwave energy selectively couples to the catheter. The directional microwave antenna is rotatable within the catheter for directing the emission of microwave energy therefrom to tissue.

Abstract: Devices and methods for using adjunctive cooling to promote recovery of function following pelvic surgery include a uretral catheter and a cryogenic cautery device. A system for producing chilled irrigation fluid recirculates the chilled fluid through a catheter inserted into the patients urethra to provide a low temperature during and following surgery. A surgical cautery device is equipped with cryogenic emitters which spray cryogenic fluid on the cautery site prior to and/or following thermal cautery to reduce inflammation and related damage from such cauterization. The various embodiments are advantageously used together.

Abstract: A microwave applicator having a probe which comprises an elongate shaft (14), the shaft having an external tubular wall (18), a radiating portion (15) disposed at the distal end of the shaft (14), a transmission line (17) extending to the radiating portion internally of the tubular external wall (18), and an elongate flow dividing member (19) which co-extends with the transmission line (17) longitudinally of the shaft (14), the side wall of the transmission line (17) and the side wall of the flow dividing member (19) contacting each other and contacting the internal surface of the external tubular wall (18) at two-spatially separated discrete positions, thereby defining a pair of flow channels (20, 21) inside the shaft (14). In use, cooling fluid can pass down one channel (20) and return via the other channel (21). The structure of the probe is uncomplicated and the probe is straightforward to assemble.

Abstract: An optical path can be created through optically challenging media. Light can transmit over the optical path between an end of an optical waveguide and a point displaced from the end. A fluid that scatters or absorbs light, generates interference, or otherwise poses optical challenges can be disposed between the waveguide end and the point. The optically challenging fluid can comprise blood, turbid and/or opaque fluid, absorbing liquids, or other liquid or fluid presenting transmission issues, for example. An optical path can be formed between the end and the point to facilitate transmitting light through the optically challenging fluid. In certain examples, the optical path can comprise a waveguide formed of fluids emitted into the optically challenging fluid, a gas injected into the optically challenging fluid, or an expandable structure, such as a balloon filled with substantially transparent liquid or gas.

Abstract: Systems and methods for a multifunction surgical apparatus are provided. In one embodiment, a surgical separator comprises: a base; a plurality of separation tongs each movably coupled to the base at their proximal end, wherein the tongs have distal ends each having a blunt profile; a cable coupled to the base, the cable including an optical fiber, where the base is arrange to position the optical fiber to aim an optical energy beam from the optical fiber out from the base and between the tongs at a centered point between the distal ends; wherein the cable further includes at least one element providing a control signal that controls operation of the tongs to move between and open position and a closed position; wherein when the distal ends of each of the tongs are positioned together into the closed position, the exterior profile of the tongs forms a wedge shape having a tip where the tongs meet.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to the field of laser treatment of tissue, and particularly, to a system and method for creating microablated channels in skin. The present invention is more particularly directed to treating subsurface tissue through the created channels.

Abstract: The invention relates to a high-frequency surgical device for monopolar coagulation of biological tissue using a high-frequency current. The device includes an electrosurgical instrument with a coagulation electrode and a surgical device with a high-frequency generator for generating a high-frequency voltage and for supplying the high-frequency current to the coagulation electrode of the electrosurgical instrument and at least one control device for terminating the coagulation process. A measuring device detects at least one measured value describing a measured tissue introduction of energy into a defined measured tissue area. An arithmetic device determines the measured tissue introduction of energy into the defined measured tissue area and a final value for a target tissue introduction of energy into a target tissue area. The control device regulates the high-frequency generator based on the final value by generating a shut-down signal when the target tissue introduction of energy reaches the final value.

Abstract: A steerable endoscopic tool uses concentric sleeves of varying curvature to steer a tool tip toward or in the direction of a location of surgical interest. By rotating and/or axially displacing such sleeves relative to one another the tool tip may be maneuvered within a current field of view with several degrees of freedom without any physical movement of an endoscope, thus facilitating improved surgical access and control without complex mechanical systems in the endoscope or at the surgical site.

Abstract: A catheter tip is provided according to various embodiments of the disclosure. The catheter tip may comprise a distal end, a proximal end, and tubular walls. The distal end includes a distal aperture with a distal inside diameter, and the proximal end includes a proximal aperture with a proximal inside diameter. The proximal inside diameter may be greater than the distal inside diameter. The proximal end comprises attachment means configured to couple the proximal end with a distal end of a laser catheter. The tubular walls may include at least an inside taper from the proximal end to the distal end such that the inner tubular walls generally taper from the proximal inside diameter to the distal inside diameter. Moreover, the tubular walls may be configured to direct at least a liquid medium, for example, a biocompatible solution, toward the distal aperture.

Abstract: A method for positioning a surgical laser fiber to facilitate delivery of therapeutic light to a tissue utilizes a flexible insertion sleeve to protect a scope as the fiber and sleeve are guided to a treatment site past bends in the scope. The fiber and sleeve are fixed relative to the scope by a fiber lock. The sleeve may include holes and/or other optional features to protect the fiber or scope during insertion and treatment.

Abstract: A surgical instrument is provided, including: at least one articulatable arm having a distal end, a proximal end, and at least one joint region disposed between the distal and proximal ends; an optical fiber bend sensor provided in the at least one joint region of the at least one articulatable arm; a detection system coupled to the optical fiber bend sensor, said detection system comprising a light source and a light detector for detecting light reflected by or transmitted through the optical fiber bend sensor to determine a position of at least one joint region of the at least one articulatable arm based on the detected light reflected by or transmitted through the optical fiber bend sensor; and a control system comprising a servo controller for effectuating movement of the arm.

Abstract: A steerable laser probe may include a handle, and inner bore of the handle, an actuation structure of the handle, a housing tube, and an optic fiber disposed within the inner bore of the handle and the housing tube. The housing tube may include a first housing tube portion having a first stiffness and a second housing tube portion having a second stiffness. The second stiffness may be greater than the first stiffness. A surgeon may aim the steerable laser probe by varying a rotational position of the handle and an amount of compression of the actuation structure.

Abstract: A system and method for controllably releasing radiation in percutaneous radiation treatment is provided. In a preferred embodiment, a laser is coupled to an optical fiber that is inserted below the skin or into a vascular lumen to a predetermined point. The fiber is connected to a source of electromagnetic radiation such as a laser, non-coherent radiation source, high power laser diode, LED, and an ultrasonic source. Radiation is then delivered to the treatment site while the fiber is simultaneously drawn out to the entry point. The fiber is manually withdrawn and during this time the radiation is administered in a manner appropriate for the vein being treating in regards to power or energy level. To maintain a constant proper energy density, the speed of withdrawal is measured and sent to a controlling mechanism. The controlling mechanism modifies the power emitted, pulse length or pulse rate to ensure that the vein or tissue receives a consistent dose of energy during manual withdrawal.

Abstract: A multi-wavelength laser apparatus and methods for laser ablation of tissue are described. The apparatus and methods utilize a laser source emitting at two or more wavelengths coupled to a fiberoptic laser delivery device and a laser driver and control system with features for protection of the laser delivery device, the patient, the operator and other components of the laser treatment system. A fiber tip protection system limits damage to the fiberoptic laser delivery device, thereby allowing the multi-wavelength laser to be operated in a tissue contact mode. The invention, which has broad medical and industrial applications, is described in relation to a method for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) by contact laser ablation of the prostate (C-LAP) using a technique of touch and pullback laser ablation of the prostate (TapLAP).

Abstract: A laser fiber has a distal end having a laser fiber face. A tip addition is attached to or formed onto the fiber face. The material of the tip addition one of fragments or melts when laser energy from a suitable laser device is passed through the laser fiber and through the tip addition.

Abstract: A minimally invasive method for treating varices in especially sensitive areas, including pelvic varices in females, varicoceles, and also oesophageal varices is presented. The method comprises the steps of making a micro incision into the blood vessels of a patient, endoscopically inserting a catheter device into the blood vessel of a patient and advancing the distal end of the catheter to reach the varix or varices. For treatment of male varicocele, insertion is preferably made directly at the testicle. Alternatively, insertion can be made in the femoral vein and advanced using a catheter. Preferably, x-ray, angiography, or other imaging techniques are used to visualize and position the catheter. An optical fiber is then inserted into the catheter and the distal end is advanced to a predetermined point near the varix or varices. Optical fiber distal end is preferably a slim, radial 360 degree emitting fiber end.

Abstract: A device and method for treating a hollow anatomical structure using matter in a plasma state. Device includes a tubular delivery device comprising a tubular body, a hub, and a distal end, wherein the tubular body device having a longitudinal fluid delivery channel and an exit port near the distal end. Device also contains a container having pre-plasma matter being operatively coupled to the hub, at least one energy-emitting element operatively coupled near the distal end of the tubular delivery device. The energy-emitting element is operatively connected to energy source.

Abstract: A catheter device provides a balloon structure and a side-firing laser lumen within the balloon to create lesions in the pulmonary vein (PV) in the treatment of atrial fibrillation. Mounted on the balloon so as to contact the PV when the balloon is inflated are one or more electrodes which may be used in a measurement mode, a treatment mode, or both.

Abstract: An ablation catheter comprises an elongated catheter body; at least one ablation element disposed in a distal portion which is adjacent the distal end of the catheter body; an illumination optical element disposed in the distal portion, the illumination optical element being light-transmissive to emit light from the illumination optical element to the targeted tissue region; and a collection optical element disposed in the distal portion, the collection optical element being light-transmissive to collect one or more of returned, backscattered or newly excited light from the targeted tissue region. The illumination or excitation optical element and the collection optical element are axially spaced from one another and axially optically isolated from one another within the distal portion to substantially prevent light from traveling between the illumination optical element and the collection optical element along a path within the distal portion.

Abstract: A method and a device for minimally invasive treatment of diseased deep and superficial venous valves are disclosed. Treatment seeks to repair/rejuvenate dysfunctional valve by reducing the circumference of dilated valve rings and by restoring their original shape and function using laser energy to make physical suture points and shrink collagen in selected points. Real time monitoring is by angioscopic view and endovenous echographic control. In a preferred embodiment, system comprises a specific catheter-like device for endovenous insertion that allows for real time view of energy emission and venous surface to be corrected. Catheter flexibility is such that viewing angle and direct energy emission can be oriented properly. Catheter can comprise channels for irrigation or for interchange of laser fibers according to desired irradiation pattern. A preferred embodiment of catheter device also comprises cuffs for temporary occlusion, by inflation and deflation.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A stone capture device comprises a shaft with a deployable sweeping structure at its distal end. The shaft is adapted to be removably placed over and connected to a conventional ureteroscope. The combination of the stone capture device and ureteroscope can be introduced into the urinary tract to capture, fragment, and remove stones from the bladder and kidney.

Abstract: An apparatus that will alter the fibrous strands in the fatty layers of the skin to reduce the appearance of cellulite and adipose tissue. Electromagnetic energy is used to selectively shrink or alternatively photoacoustically ablate the collagen in the constricting bands of connective tissue that causes the dimpled appearance of cellulite and adipose tissue while avoiding damage to the surrounding fatty cells.

Abstract: An optical delivery apparatus is disclosed including: an optical fiber extending between a distal end having a distal end face and a proximal end having a proximal end face, an optical element positioned to receive the light emitted from the distal end face and direct the light to an illumination region; and a non-metallic housing containing the optical fiber and the optical element and maintaining the relative position of the optical fiber and the optical element.

Abstract: A hand-held, portable diode laser surgical device includes a power supply, at least one laser diode, integral control interface and display, and a multi-component sterile, disposable tip apparatus featuring assembly for alignment of a self-contained optical fiber to the surgical device, and releasably locking assembly between the tip apparatus and surgical device. An embodiment includes wireless foot pedal on/off control and a dock providing sterile, antiseptic recharging environment.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an apparatus includes an optical fiber made of a silica-based material. A proximal end portion of the optical fiber has an outer-layer portion. The proximal end portion can be included in at least a portion of a launch connector configured to receive electromagnetic radiation. The apparatus also includes a component that has a bore therethrough and can be made of a doped silica material. The bore can have an inner-layer portion heat-fused to the outer-layer portion of the optical fiber. The component can also have an index of refraction lower than an index of refraction associated with the outer-layer portion of the optical fiber.

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: It is an object and advantage of this invention to provide an improved device and method that uses targeted laser wavelength to treat a diseased vessel. An advantage of this invention is targeted ablation of diseased vessels without harming non-target tissue. This new technique allows for a controlled ablation, may not require injection of tumescent anesthesia prior to treatment and may decrease unwanted or unintended side effects.

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: Stimulation of target cells using light, e.g., in vivo, is implemented using a variety of methods and devices. In one such device, target cells are stimulated using an implantable device. The device includes a light source for producing light from electrical power. An optical transmission element is made from a material that is substantially transparent to the light from the light source. This transmission element substantially encases the light source at a proximal end. The transmission element delivers light from the light source to a distal end. The shape and size of the transmission element facilitates implanting of the element within a patient. A fixation portion physically couples to the optical transmission element and secures the device to the patient. A heat dissipation portion removes heat from the near optical transmission element and the light source and dissipates the removed heat through the fixation portion.

Abstract: Embodiments of a laser ablation system include a shaft, a balloon and a laser fiber. The shaft has a proximal end and a distal end. The balloon is attached to the distal end of the shaft, a portion of which is disposed within the balloon. A light dispenser at a distal end of the laser fiber deliver laser light through the balloon. A central axis of the balloon is aligned with a longitudinal axis of the shaft. The balloon has a variable transparency such that the transmission of laser light through the balloon is non-uniform along the central axis. Accordingly, an energy of laser light transmitted from the light dispenser through the balloon to the targeted tissue varies due to the variable transparency of the balloon.

Abstract: An endovascular laser treatment device for causing closure of a blood vessel uses an optical fiber adapted to be inserted into a blood vessel. An inner sleeve is arranged around a distal portion of the optical fiber core such that both distal ends of the inner sleeve and the optical fiber core form an enlarged light emitting face. The enlarged emitting face provides substantially lower power density while providing the same amount of total energy during a treatment session. An outer sleeve arranged around the inner sleeve acts as a spacer to position the light emitting face away from an inner wall of the blood vessel. The enlarged light emitting face and the outer sleeve acting as a spacer reduces the possibility of thermal run-away and device damage, and reduce the possibility of vessel perforations, leading to less bruising, post-operative pain and other clinical complications.

Abstract: An improved procedure for performing liposuction is obtained by utilizing a needle that includes a laser source conductor with one end of the needle being configured for insertion into a target adipose skin volume and the other end being coupled to a laser source. The needle may include one or more channels for extracting the treated adipose area. A vacuum source can be used in the extraction of the treated adipose. Further, the first end of the needle may include a cap or end-piece that reduces the build up of carbon deposits. A temperature sensor may be used as input to adjust the laser power and prevent over exposure.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to a laser ablation system. In one embodiment, the laser ablation system comprises a shaft, a balloon, a laser fiber and a viewing fiber. The shaft has a proximal end and a distal end. The balloon is attached to the distal end of the shaft, a portion of which is within the balloon. The laser fiber has a distal end comprising a light dispenser that is configured to deliver laser light through the balloon. The viewing fiber is configured to image an interior balloon. In accordance with another embodiment, the laser ablation system comprises a shaft, a balloon and a laser fiber. The shaft has a proximal end and a distal end. The balloon is attached to the distal end of the shaft, which is within the balloon. The balloon includes an inflated state, in which the balloon is shaped to conform to a cavity of a patient. The laser fiber has a distal end comprising light dispenser that is configured to deliver laser light through the balloon.

Abstract: An apparatus may include an optical fiber having an angled grating aligned along a plane non-normal to a longitudinal axis of a distal end portion of the optical fiber. The angled grating may be configured to redirect a first laser energy propagated within the optical fiber and incident on the angled grating to a direction offset from the longitudinal axis. The apparatus may also include a metallic cap coupled to the optical fiber. The metallic cap may have an inner surface configured to redirect a second laser energy incident on the inner surface along the direction offset from the longitudinal axis. The second laser energy being different than the first laser energy.

Abstract: An optical fiber includes an internal fiber, an end surface, a first cap member and a second cap member. The internal fiber terminates at a fiber tip. The end surface transmits laser energy delivered through the internal fiber. The first cap member extends over the end surface and includes a first end on a first side of the end surface and a second end on a second side of the end surface. The second cap member extends over the first cap member and includes a first end on the first side of the end surface and a second end on the second side of the end surface, the second end of the second cap member is attached to the second end of the first cap member.