Abstract:
Output attachments to an electromagnetic-energy outputting device are coded using colors, topography, or combinations of color and topography. The output attachments, which are removable and interchangeable, may be interchanged for purposes of performing particular surgical or other cutting procedures. Instructions provided to a user refer to colors or other coded indicators in order to provide rapid and reliable switching of output attachments.
Abstract:
A laser handpiece is disclosed, including a shaped fiber optic tip having a side-firing output end with a non-cylindrical shape. The shaped fiber optic tip can be configured to side-fire laser energy in a direction away from a laser handpiece and toward sidewalls of a treatment or target site.
Abstract:
An illumination device is described containing optical fibers that transmit electromagnetic energy from a source to a target. Additional optical fibers return reflected electromagnetic energy from the target. High-level electromagnetic energy can be used for cutting, reforming, or treating a surface. Low-level electromagnetic energy illuminates the surface.
Abstract:
A device includes a handle coupled with an activated textured surface that can be implemented using a repetitive movement mechanism and a treatment energy source, such as an electromagnetic radiation source. The handle may be used to provide detection, treatment and/or management of sundry conditions including, for example, tooth discoloration, tissue damage, periodontal disease, tumors, pain, halitosis, and bronchitis. The activated textured surface may include a surface topography including corrugations, bristles, protuberances, or pits, or other surfaces for facilitating agitation, cleaning or other surface treatments.
Abstract:
A laser device that includes a dual pulse-width laser pumping circuit (100)generates long and short laser pulses. The laser- pumping circuit employs a single power supply (105) with dual high voltage outputs (110, 130) that are selectable under control (165) of a user. The laser device conveniently generates long and short laser pulses or a mix of the two for performing specilized surgical procedures.
Abstract:
A medical laser device (600) that generates a laser beam controllable with presets (695) as to pulse duration, pulse repetition rate, power, and energy per pulse. The device also provides presets with respect to water and air outputs. Parametric values for power, pulse duration, pulse repetition rate, and energy per pulse as well as for water and air settings maybe programmed by the end user and stored as presets.
Abstract:
An identification connector (25) is disclosed that provides a link (16) between a laser housing (20) and a laser handpiece (11). The connector (25) integrates a laser delivery guide with ancillary connections and provides information for verifying proper connection and protection against use of unauthorized delivery system.
Abstract:
A system and method are described for controlling acceptance of a fiber connector. A configurable adapter is employed for connecting fiber connectors to a laser housing. A specific version of the adapter permits connecting both general-purpose and specific-purpose fiber connectors to the laser housing. A less versatile configuration of the adapter permits connecting general-purpose fiber connectors to the laser housing, but rejects specific-purpose fiber connectors.
Abstract:
A method and apparatus are described for controlling temperature of a fluid used with electromagnetic energy in medical and dental laser procedures. Received fluid is passed through a heat exchanger, and heat is added to or removed from the fluid depending upon a desired effect, which may be influenced by a temperature setting. Temperature of output fluid is sensed, and heating or cooling is controlled in order to maintain output fluid temperature in a desired range. Ultraviolet radiation is used to sterilize the fluid.
Abstract:
Outputs of a plurality of electromagnetic energy emitting devices are merged to create merged electromagnetic energy. The merged electromagnetic energy illuminates a target with a spot size larger than a spot size obtained with a single electromagnetic energy emitting device.