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Abstract

A multi-wavelength surgical laser apparatus of improved construction employs a fluid-filled stimulated Raman scattering cell in an optical feedback path of a pump laser having a power in a range suitable for surgery, and drives the Raman cell at a high repetition rate in a manner to produce a laser output at a substantially shifted wavelength at a power commensurate with that of the pump laser. In a preferred system, the relative proportions of pump light and Raman scattered light are varied to achieve a desired cutting or coagulating action. Preferably, the pump laser is operated at a pulse repetition rate above five hundred Hz. The fluid Raman medium is pumped across the optical axis of the cell. The flow system effectively doubles the Raman conversion efficiency and permits high power output while lowering the Raman lasing threshold. Systems include a fiber for conducting output light to a surgical probe, and a variable output coupler to vary the relative amounts of pump and Stokes radiation coupled into the fiber. Light generated at visible wavelengths by Stokes processes in the Raman cell provides auxiliary beam for targeting or observation purposes.

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First Claim