Method and apparatus for removing cataractous lens tissue by laser radiation

摘要

The invention involves the apparatus and the technique for non-invasive surgery to remove cataracted-lens tissue from an afflicted lens. The beam output of a laser is focused to a spot of maximum power density at the anterior surface of a cataracted lens and scanned over a predetermined area or areas of the cataracted lens. The beam is selective and safe since it's diffuse as it enters the eye through the cornea and is also diffuse (being divergent) in the unlikely event that the beam passes through an opening it has created in the cataracted lens. This diffusion assures against damage to either or both of the cornea and the retina. Focal power levels are used sufficient to achieve cataract material destruction thru ablative photodecomposition, thermal decomposition, photofragmentation, photoemulsification or any combination thereof. Various features are disclosed for assuring safety and uniformity in the removal of involved tissue.