A novel raised polycide fusible link structure is described. This structure enables a highly reliable laser-cutting process to be used in which the fuse can be easily and totally severed over a wide range of laser energy levels. The primary feature of the structure is that the fusible link is located on a pedestal that raises it above the surface of the main body of the integrated circuit, thereby providing a measure of thermal isolation for the fuse when it is irradiated by the laser. An efficient process for manufacturing the structure is also described.
