Removable tip for laser device with transparent lens

Abstract

The present invention provides an improved method of removing fluids, gases or other biomolecules, or delivering a pharmaceutical composition, through the skin of a patient without the use of a sharp or needle. The method includes the step of irradiating the stratum corneum, an applied pharmaceutical or an absorbing material, using a laser. By selection of parameters, the laser irradiates the selected material or tissue to create pressure gradients, plasma, cavitation bubbles, or other forms of tissue ablation or alteration. These methods increase the diffusion of pharmaceuticals into, or fluids, gases or other biomolecules out of, the body. For this invention, a pharmaceutical composition can be applied to the skin before or after laser irradiation.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention is in the field of medical procedures, namely laser medical equipment used in the delivery of anesthetics or pharmaceuticals to, or the removal of fluids, gases or other biomolecules from, a patient. BACKGROUND The traditional method for the collection of small quantities of fluids, gases or other biomolecules from a patient utilizes mechanical perforation of the skin with a sharp device such as a metal lancet or needle. Additionally, the typical method of administering anesthetics or other pharmaceuticals is through the use of a needle. These procedures have many drawbacks, including the possible infection of health care workers and the public by the sharp device used to perforate the skin, as well as the cost of handling and disposal of biologically hazardous waste. When skin is perforated with a sharp device such as a metal lancet or needle, biological waste is created in the form of the “sharp” contaminated by the patient's blood and / or ...

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