Abstract: A cataract surgical system includes a laser source to generate a first set of laser pulses; a guiding optic to guide the first set of laser pulses to a cataract target region in an eye; a laser controller to generate an electronic representation of a target scan pattern, and to control the guiding optic to scan the first set of laser pulses according to a portion of the target scan pattern to create a first photo-disrupted region in the cataract target region; and a Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomographic (SD-OCT) imaging system to generate an image of a portion of the first photo-disrupted region. The laser controller can generate an electronic representation of a modified scan pattern in relation to the image generated by the SD-OCT imaging system, and control the guiding optic to scan a second set of laser pulses according the modified scan pattern.

Abstract: A surgical microscope system (100) for ophthalmology, in particular for cataract surgery, is proposed, which comprises an illumination unit (10) and a viewing unit (30), the surgical microscope system (100) being set up to irradiate illumination light (15) of the illumination unit (10) into an eye (50) arranged on the objective side of the surgical microscope, the surgical microscope system (100) comprising a detection unit (20) by means of which a scattering (15?) of the illumination light (15) irradiated into the eye (50) is determinable, in the form of a scattering pattern and/or scattering coefficient, by sensing a portion of the illumination light (15) radiated back by the eye (50).

Abstract: A system and method are presented for use in delivering electromagnetic radiation to a limbal area of an eye, for example for treatment of glaucoma. The system includes an illumination unit, a beam shaping device and a control unit. The illumination unit includes a first source of electromagnetic radiation configured and operable for producing a beam of electromagnetic radiation having first optical properties to be delivered to the limbal area of a patient's eye to interact therewith and produce a desired effect, and a second source of electromagnetic radiation configured and operable for producing a beam of electromagnetic radiation having second optical properties. The beam shaping device when accommodated in an optical path of said first and second beams defines one or more regions along a path substantially aligned with a limbus of the patient's eye.

Abstract: An intraocular light probe has a mask or shield affixed at its distal end thereof which forms a directed light beam for intraocular illumination of target tissues or intraocular application of therapeutic light. The mask or shield serves to more fully focus, intensify and direct the beam toward target tissues. The mask or shield also helps direct light away from other tissues and away from the eyes of the surgeon. This lessens unwanted glare. By placing a light probe beneath a surgical instrument such as a phacoemulsifier or vitrector, laser, cutting instrument (e.g., scissors or knife), forceps or probe/manipulator, whether as part of or separate from an infusion sleeve, a mask or shield effect is created. This has the same benefits of directing the beam toward target tissues, away from other tissues and away from the eyes of the surgeon.

Abstract: An ophthalmic system may comprise an imaging device having a field of view oriented toward the eye of the patient; a patient interface housing defining a passage therethrough, having a distal end coupled to one or more seals configured to be directly engaged with one or more surfaces of the eye of the patient, and wherein the proximal end is configured to be coupled to the patient workstation such that at least a portion of the field of view of the imaging device passes through the passage; and two or more registration fiducials coupled to the patient interface housing in a predetermined geometric configuration relative to the patient interface housing within the field of view of the imaging device such that they may be imaged by the imaging device in reference to predetermined geometric markers on the eye of the patient which may also be imaged by the imaging device.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for debulking scar tissue in the retina by the Laser Induced Optical Breakdown (LIOB) of scar tissue. The identification, location and extent of the scar tissue is accomplished using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) techniques. OCT imaging is also used to monitor the debulking procedure.

Abstract: A laser system for ophthalmic surgery includes a laser source to generate a pulsed laser beam, an XY scanner to receive the pulsed laser beam and to output an XY-scanning beam, scanned in two directions transverse to a Z direction, a Z scanner in a scanner housing to receive the XY-scanning beam and to output an XYZ-scanning beam scanned additionally in the Z direction, a mirror to deflect the XYZ-scanning beam received from the Z scanner, and an objective, in an objective housing, to receive the deflected XYZ-scanning beam and to focus the received XYZ-scanning beam onto a target region, wherein the scanner housing is separate from the objective housing.

Abstract: Devices to perform femtolaser ablation and phacoemulsification are physically and/or operationally combined. In some embodiments the femtolaser ablation and phacoemulsification are housed together, and in other embodiments they are housed separately, but operated through a common display screen. At least some software can be shared by the femtolaser ablation and phacoemulsification functionalities. A non-transitory computer-readable memory can provide data that can be used to operate each of at least one femtolaser ablation functionality and at least one phacoemulsification functionality.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for reducing intraocular pressure in an eye. A perpendicular incision is made through a conjunctiva of the eye to access a trabecular meshwork of the eye. Electromagnetic energy is focused through the perpendicular incision to ablate a portion of the trabecular network, where said ablation creates a channel for outflow flow of fluid through a sclera venous sinus to reduce pressure within the eye.

Abstract: A laser-assisted method for fully or partially separating tissue such as collagen-containing tissue is provided. In one embodiment, the method pertains to a capsolurorhexis whereby the laser-assisted method is applied to the lens capsule. A light-absorbing agent is added into or onto the tissue. A light beam with a wavelength capable of being absorbed by the light absorbing agent is then directed at the tissue to cause a thermal effect at the tissue following a predetermined closed curve with the goal to avoid irregularity or potential tears in the resulting rim of the tissue.

Abstract: System and method for making incisions in eye tissue at different depths. The system and method focuses light, possibly in a pattern, at various focal points which are at various depths within the eye tissue. A segmented lens can be used to create multiple focal points simultaneously. Optimal incisions can be achieved by sequentially or simultaneously focusing lights at different depths, creating an expanded column of plasma, and creating a beam with an elongated waist.

Abstract: A method to perform high resolution tissue ablation including the steps of forming a beam to deliver optical energy and providing an energy dissipating material is provided. The steps of selecting an area of interest in a target tissue and placing the energy dissipating material adjacent to the area of interest may be included. The steps of directing the beam to the area of interest and scanning the beam across the area of interest to ablate the target tissue may be further included. Also provided is an apparatus and a system for high resolution tissue ablation including a beam to provide optical energy and an injector for placing an energy dissipating material adjacent to an area of interest. Further, the apparatus and system may include at least a mirror and a lens for directing the beam to the area of interest and scanning the beam to ablate target tissue.

Abstract: A surgical device and method of making and using the same for implantation in a body of a mammal. One preferred device is prepared to include an elongated member. A region includes a pharmaceutical agent and a bioerodible material, a biodegradable material a bioavailable material or a mixture thereof.

Abstract: A method for optimizing a prescription for laser-ablation corneal treatment includes receiving a measured correction prescription for a current patient. Next a database of treatment outcomes on a plurality of previously treated patients is accessed. The database contains a desired correction, and an actual correction. A difference between the desired correction and the actual correction represents an over- or undercorrection resulting from surgery. From the difference data is calculated a distribution of data points as a function of correction level. From the data-point distribution is calculated a statistically based offset applicable to the correction prescription for matching actual corrections with desired corrections. From the data-point distribution is calculated a confidence interval of the data using a predetermined confidence level. The statistically based offset is then adjusted based upon the confidence interval to provide an optimized prescription.

Abstract: Improvements in respect of performing cataract surgery, and the result thereof, by application of a laser system. A device for cataract surgery, includes a surgical microscope or stereo microscope and a laser source. A module, consisting of a laser-coupling/deflecting unit, a laser-scan unit, and a focusing unit, can be attached to the surgical microscope or stereo microscope, in which at least one of these units can selectively be introduced between the surgical microscope and eye, and in which the focusing unit can scan a depth-of-focus range of greater than 1 mm.

Abstract: System and method for making incisions in eye tissue at different depths. The system and method focuses light, possibly in a pattern, at various focal points which are at various depths within the eye tissue. A segmented lens can be used to create multiple focal points simultaneously. Optimal incisions can be achieved by sequentially or simultaneously focusing lights at different depths, creating an expanded column of plasma, and creating a beam with an elongated waist.

Abstract: Systems and methods for fine-tuning refractive shapes for vision treatment are provided. Techniques encompass determining a variable index of refraction for a cornea of the eye, and determining the refractive treatment shape for the eye based on the variable index of refraction. Techniques also encompass determining a variable radius of curvature of an anterior surface of a cornea of the eye, and determining the refractive treatment shape for the eye based on the variable radius of curvature.

Abstract: A cardiac ablation instrument capable of removing blood from a treatment area is provided. The instrument includes a catheter configured to deliver a distal end thereof to a patient's heart. The instrument can also include an expandable element coupled to the distal end of the catheter wherein the expandable member is configured to be positioned adjacent a target area thereby defining a treatment area between the expandable member and the target area. Further, the instrument can include an irrigation mechanism configured to dispense an irrigation fluid from the catheter thereby displacing blood from the treatment area. Additionally, the instrument includes an energy emitter configured to deliver energy to tissue within the treatment area. The instrument can also include a contact sensor configured to determine the presence of such blood within the treatment area. Methods for ablating tissue are also provided.

Abstract: System and method for making incisions in eye tissue at different depths. The system and method focuses light, possibly in a pattern, at various focal points which are at various depths within the eye tissue. A segmented lens can be used to create multiple focal points simultaneously. Optimal incisions can be achieved by sequentially or simultaneously focusing lights at different depths, creating an expanded column of plasma, and creating a beam with an elongated waist.

Abstract: Surgical methods and related medical devices for treating ocular disorders are disclosed. Some methods relate to delivering an implant within an eye, and involve providing an elongate guide device, such as, a flexible guide member or a guide wire. A distal end of the guide device can be advanced into an anterior chamber of an eye, or through at least a portion of a site of resistance along a physiologic outflow pathway of the eye, or from an anterior chamber of the eye to a location proximate a physiologic outflow pathway of the eye. The implant is advanced along the guide device toward the guide device distal end, and is positioned to conduct aqueous humor between the anterior chamber and the physiologic outflow pathway.

Abstract: A photodisruptive laser delivery system and method for use in eye surgery. The photo disruptive laser delivered in pulses in the range of <10000 femtoseconds, used to create incisions in eye tissue is delivered by novel means to minimize optical aberrations without the use of a complex system of multiply precisely arranged lenses. This novel means include a scanning design that allows the focusing lens to always remain under normal incidence to the photodisruptive laser beam, negating the need for overly complex aberration correction set up. The focusing lens is configured to move within a surrounding beam to facilitate two dimensional controls over the treatment space. Controlling beam divergence prior to focusing allows for 3D incisions. The system and methods of use accomplish precise treatment without the need to contact the patient and can be integrated into standard surgical microscopes to improve operational efficiency and hospital workflow.

Abstract: System and method for making incisions in eye tissue at different depths. The system and method focuses light, possibly in a pattern, at various focal points which are at various depths within the eye tissue. A segmented lens can be used to create multiple focal points simultaneously. Optimal incisions can be achieved by sequentially or simultaneously focusing lights at different depths, creating an expanded column of plasma, and creating a beam with an elongated waist.

Abstract: The invention relates to an ophthalmic surgical device for the treatment of glaucoma. The device comprises a fiber connector and a fiber. The fiber is provided with a proximal end connected to the fiber connector. Further, the fiber is provided, near its distal end, with a notch. Preferably, the distal end of the fiber forms a rounded tip.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to methods for deploying intraocular shunts without the use of an optical apparatus that contacts an eye, such as a goniolens. In certain embodiments, methods of the invention involve inserting into an eye a deployment device configured to hold an intraocular shunt, determining that a distal portion of the device is properly positioned within the eye without use of an optical apparatus that contacts the eye, and deploying the shunt from the device.

Abstract: Transcorneal and fiberoptic laser delivery systems and methods for the treatment of eye diseases wherein energy is delivered by wavelengths transparent to the cornea to effect target tissues in the eye for the control of intraocular pressure in diseases such as glaucoma by delivery systems both external to and within ocular tissues. External delivery may be effected under gonioscopic control. Internal delivery may he controlled endoscopically or fiberoptically, both systems utilizing femtosecond laser energy to excise ocular tissue. The femtosecond light energy is delivered to the target tissues to be treated to effect precisely controlled photodisruption to enable portals for the outflow of aqueous fluid in the case of glaucoma in a manner which minimizes target tissue healing responses, inflammation and scarring.

Abstract: An optical coherence tomography (OCT) image of the anterior chamber of an eye is processed to determine automatically a location in the image corresponding to Schwalbe's line. First, the method finds the location of the corneal endothelium. Then the method fits a model to the detected corneal endothelium. Then the method determines the location of Schwalbe's line based on the relationship between the detected corneal endothelium and the fitted model, such as where the detected corneal endothelium diverges most from the fitted model. The Schwalbe's line is used to obtain a numerical measure of the anterior chamber angle of the eye. The method can be used in a process for screening patients for glaucoma. In the case of patients found to be suffering from glaucoma, treatment can be performed.

Abstract: The invention relates to systems and methods for measuring the angular accessibility limitations of the anterior angle of the eye, targeting one or multiple treatment zones within the anterior angle area of the eye and delivering highly focused photodisruptive laser pulses with pulse durations <50 picoseconds creating channels into various anatomical structures within the anterior angle of the eye. The invention further includes custom gonioscopy lens systems, patient interface systems and a laser delivery system to deliver highly focused laser beams to the anterior angle area of the eye.

Abstract: A microscope for performing an opthalmo-surgical intervention, in particular for a contactless wide-angle observation of an eye during an intervention, is provided. The microscope has a tube (1a) having an objective and an ocular, a holding arm (1), at which the tube (1a) is attached such that a movement of the objective with respect to the holding arm (1) along the optical axis of the objective is possible, an optical accessory part (8a) between the objective and the eye and a holding device for the optical accessory part (8a). The holding device for the optical accessory part is attached at the holding arm (1) by means of an attachment device (2) in such a way that the holding device does not take part in movements of the objective along the optical axis of the objective. Thereby, when changing the picture angle, a re-adjustment is highly simplified.

Abstract: An ophthalmic laser system includes a laser source, to generate a pulsed laser beam, an XY scanner, to receive the pulsed laser beam, and to output an XY-scanning beam, scanned in two directions essentially transverse to an optical axis, and a multi-functional Z scanner, to receive the XY-scanning beam, to output an XYZ-scanning beam, having a numerical aperture NA and a focal spot in a target region, and to modify the numerical aperture NA essentially independently from scanning a Z focal depth of the focal spot along the optical axis.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for imaging an eye portion or for treating glaucoma in an eye of a patient. In a first step an optical microscopic image of a portion of the eye is acquired. In the optical microscopic image a distinguishable anatomical structure is identified to predict a location of a volume portion to be imaged three-dimensionally. Three-dimensional imaging of the located volume portion is performed by acquiring an optical coherence tomography image of the located volume portion. The volume portion is treated by either directing a laser beam to the volume portion or inserting an implant based on the OCT-image.

Abstract: A method to perform high resolution tissue ablation including the steps of forming a beam to deliver optical energy and providing an energy dissipating material is provided. The steps of selecting an area of interest in a target tissue and placing the energy dissipating material adjacent to the area of interest may be included. The steps of directing the beam to the area of interest and scanning the beam across the area of interest to ablate the target tissue may be further included. Also provided is an apparatus and a system for high resolution tissue ablation including a beam to provide optical energy and an injector for placing an energy dissipating material adjacent to an area of interest. Further, the apparatus and system may include at least a mirror and a lens for directing the beam to the area of interest and scanning the beam to ablate target tissue.

Abstract: Method, apparatus and systems for laser surgery as part of cataract surgery. The implementation thereof includes: A means to perform an anterior or posterior capsulorhexis using a rapid fire sequence of photodisruptive laser pulses, placed to open the capsule for cataract surgery. The system and methods provides the means to target and direct the laser pulse sequence into the desired region of the eye without the need of a patient interface or other contact with the eye.

Abstract: C1q is shown to be expressed in neurons, where it acts as a signal for synapse elimination. Methods are provided for protecting or treating an individual suffering from adverse effects of synapse loss. These findings have broad implications for a variety of clinical conditions, including Alzheimer's disease.

Abstract: An ultrashort pulsed laser instrument is used to perform refractive surgery. The invention operates in ablative and incisional modalities. In the ablative mode, spiral ablation disks (10) consisting of individual laser pulses (40) are produced at high scanning speeds. Ablation profile (11) may be produced in cornea (22) by stacking and arranging multiple ablation disks (10) to produce a specified shape change. Placement of ablation disks (10) is assisted by an optical tracking and control system that compensates for eye motion. A preferred embodiment allows for ablative corrections to be performed on non-planar posterior surface (112) of a laser cut flap affixed to registration platen (120), thereby avoiding exposing the eye interior to high radiant power. Laser cut and contrast agent dyed fiduciary marks (30) may serve as reference features for the optical tracking system. Incisional procedures, such as corneal flaps for LASIK, may also be performed.

Abstract: Configurations are described for conducting ophthalmic procedures to address cataract-related clinical challenges. In one embodiment, a one-piece patient contact interface may be utilized to couple a diagnostic and/or interventional system to a cornea of a patient; in another embodiment, a two-part configuration may be utilized; in another embodiment, a liquid interface two-part embodiment may be utilized.

Abstract: A method for thermotherapy of a biological tissue by determining the temperature at which to heat a target site to be treated to provide a temperature to the site to effect therapy, the temperature above body temperature but below a protein denaturation temperature, as determined by a patient's experience of a sensation of pain. Thermotherapy is effected in the absence of coagulative effects by providing oscillatory energy at the predetermined temperature.

Abstract: The invention relates to a novel apparatus for the treatment of ocular disease, particularly glaucoma. The apparatus consists of a locating device to locate Schlemm's Canal within the anterior portion of the eye and a surgical tool to access the canal for treatment. The apparatus allows for guided, minimally invasive surgical access to Schlemm's Canal to enable surgical procedures to be performed on the canal and trabecular meshwork to reduce intraocular pressure. The apparatus may also deliver devices or substances to Schlemm's Canal in the treatment of glaucoma.

Abstract: Apparatus for treating age-related macular degeneration, the apparatus comprising a light source which, in operation, serves to emit a therapeutic light beam presenting an emission wavelength lying in the range 1.2 ?m to 1.3 ?m, and preferably equal to 1.26 ?m to 1.27 ?m. The laser source preferably comprises an optical fiber Raman laser.

Abstract: An ophthalmic laser treatment apparatus, which allows SLT to be performed by a laser source not having a Q-switch which emits a continuous wave laser beam, has a laser source capable of emitting a continuous wave visible laser beam to be absorbed into pigment cells of trabecular meshwork, an irradiation optical system for directing the laser beam to a patient's eye so as to irradiate the eye with the laser beam, a device for pulsing the laser beam by controlling a driving duration of the laser source or opening and closing durations of a shutter in the irradiation optical system, a device capable of setting an irradiation duration of the laser beam within a range of 0.1 msec to 5 msec in order to perform Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty, and a device capable of setting irradiation energy density of the laser beam within a range of 1 J/cm2 to 8.5 J/cm2.

Abstract: The present invention employs image intensification for medical procedures within the human body. Methods and systems of the invention utilize infrared radiation (e.g. greater than about 750 nm) illumination and visualization of a surgical treatment area. Preferred methods and systems of the invention incorporate use of an infrared radiation visualization system which may be known as “night vision” systems.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for cataract intervention. In one embodiment a system comprises a laser source configured to produce a treatment beam comprising a plurality of laser pulses; an integrated optical system comprising an imaging assembly operatively coupled to a treatment laser delivery assembly such that they share at least one common optical element, the integrated optical system being configured to acquire image information pertinent to one or more targeted tissue structures and direct the treatment beam in a 3-dimensional pattern to cause breakdown in at least one of the targeted tissue structures; and a controller operatively coupled to the laser source and integrated optical system, and configured to adjust the laser beam and treatment pattern based upon the image information, and distinguish two or more anatomical structures of the eye based at least in part upon a robust least squares fit analysis of the image information.

Abstract: A system for cataract surgery on an eye of a patient is described.

Abstract: System and method for making incisions in eye tissue at different depths. The system and method focuses light, possibly in a pattern, at various focal points which are at various depths within the eye tissue. A segmented lens can be used to create multiple focal points simultaneously. Optimal incisions can be achieved by sequentially or simultaneously focusing lights at different depths, creating an expanded column of plasma, and creating a beam with an elongated waist.

Abstract: There is provided a system, apparatus and methods for developing laser systems that can create precise predetermined clear corneal incisions that are capable of reducing induced astigmatism. The systems, apparatus and methods further provide laser systems that can provide these incisions at or below Bowman's membrane.

Abstract: There is provided a system, apparatus and methods for developing laser systems that can create precise predetermined self-sealing incisions in the cornea. The systems, apparatus and methods further provide laser systems that can provide these incisions in conjunction with the removal and replacement of the natural human crystalline lens.

Abstract: A method of scanning a laser beam across a set of cells includes during a first interval, causing a galvanometric scanner to scan a laser beam across a set of cells; and during a second interval, causing the galvanometric scanner to deflect 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.

Abstract: Systems and techniques for providing variable scanning control in delivering a laser beam of laser pulses to a surgical target are provided. The described systems and techniques can be used for laser surgery within the anterior segment of the eye and the crystalline lens via photodisruption caused by laser pulses from a femtosecond laser.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for the treatment of glaucoma are provided. The instrument uses either cauterization, a laser to ablate, sonic or ultrasonic energy to emulsify, or mechanical cutting of a portion of the trabecular meshwork. The instrument may also be provided with irrigation, aspiration, and a footplate. The footplate is used to enter Schlemm's canal, serves as a guide, and also protects Schlemm's canal.

Abstract: Apparatus for ophthalmic surgery, especially non-penetrating filtration surgery, comprising a laser source that ablates sclera tissue at steps of intermediate thickness. Optionally, the beam is scanned using a scanner and its results viewed using an ophthalmic microscope.