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:
An electromagnetic energy output device in the form of laser handpiece and a trunk assembly is disclosed. The electromagnetic energy output device includes a digital camera and electromagnetic energy waveguides for emitting illumination or excitation light energy to enhance user viewability of a target surface and signal analysis and to receive electromagnetic energy such as return excitation light. An image acquisition fitting routes images acquired at or in a vicinity of the distal end of the electromagnetic energy output device. The image acquisition fitting can include an attachable or clip-on element or set of elements. In other implementations, the image acquisition fitting may be securable, in whole or in part, within an interior of the electromagnetic energy output device.
Abstract:
A medical laser is described that contains a modulator or saturable absorber. The laser produces output optical energy suitable for cutting tissue while minimizing wasted output optical energy that could result in unnecessary pain to a patient. The medical laser described enables efficient, effective cutting of tissue.
Abstract:
A laser handpiece is disclosed, including a shaped fiber optic tip having a side-firing output end with a double bevel-cut 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:
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:
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.