PROCESS AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING THE PHOTOCOAGULATION OFBIOLOGICAL TISSUE

摘要

Apparatus to control the extent of photocoagulation of the retina wherein light reflected from discrete portions (Ti) of the retina (75) in the eye is projected by a lens system (82) to individual photodiodes (D1) in an array (85) to generate electrical signals related to the light intensity reflected from a corresponding portion (Ti) on the retina (75) being treated. A change in the reflectance of any discrete portion (Ti) of an area on the retina relative to the reflectance of any discrete portion of the area on the retina actuates a control mechanism associated with laser (22). Upon a change to a threshold reflectance or a maximum rate of change in reflectance, a control apparatus (90) automatically adjusts parameters of treatment including power (22), focus (25) or sighting (102, 104).