Adjustable laser pulse control

Abstract

Systems and methods for flexibly controlling laser pulses output from a laser system are disclosed herein. An example surgical system includes a laser, an optical switching device, and a laser pulse controller. An optical switching control signal transmitted by the laser pulse controller controls the length of pulse pickup cycles and the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse pickup cycle. The number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse pickup period may be adjustable in a range including 50% or more of the laser pulses in each pulse pickup period.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for controlling the output of laser pulses from a laser system. Background Art

[0002] Lasers are used in many different medical procedures, including many different ophthalmic procedures. For example, lasers can be used in cataract surgery, such as to fragment a cataractous lens. In some procedures, a laser is used to achieve initial fragmentation of the lens, followed by phacoemulsification of the lens by an ultrasonic handpiece to complete the breakdown of the lens for removal. In other procedures, a laser can be used for complete fragmentation and / or phacoemulsification of the lens for removal without the need for separate application of ultrasonic energy. Lasers can also be used for other steps in cataract surgery, such as for making one or more corneal incisions and / or opening the capsule.

[0003] Lasers may also be used in glaucoma surgery. For example, a laser may be used to form all or part of a channel through the trabecular meshwork or scleral tissue for draining aqueous humor from the eye.

[0004] Lasers can also be used in vitreoretinal surgery. In some procedures, a laser can be used for vitrectomy to cut or break the vitreous fibers for removal. The laser can be incorporated into a vitrectomy probe, and energy from the laser can be applied to the vitreous fibers to cut or break the vitreous fibers for removal.

[0005] In other vitreoretinal applications, lasers can be used for photocoagulation of retinal tissue. Laser photocoagulation can be used to treat problems such as retinal tears and / or the effects of diabetic retinopathy.

[0006] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0360657 discloses examples of ophthalmic laser systems. The application describes uses of lasers, such as for forming surgical incisions or for photorupturing ophthalmic tissue and for cataract surgery, such as laser-assisted cataract surgery (LACS). U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0201238 discloses other examples of ophthalmic laser systems. The application describes uses of lasers, such as for cutting or breaking vitreous fibers in a vitrectomy probe. U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0360657 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0201238 are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0007] Some laser systems emit pulses, where the pulses have a desired duration and repetition rate. Operating a laser in a pulsed manner can achieve desirable power and energy characteristics for a particular application. In addition, while the energy of a beam emitted by a laser can be controlled by controlling the laser itself, in some systems it is desirable to control the amount of energy of the laser beam downstream of the laser. Existing systems for laser pulse selection typically have one or more disadvantages, such as power loss, complexity, cost, etc. Therefore, there is a need for improved systems and methods for laser pulse control. Summary of the invention

[0008] The present disclosure relates to improved systems and methods for controlling the output of laser pulses from a laser system.

[0009] In some embodiments, a surgical system includes: a laser configured to emit electromagnetic radiation in the form of laser pulses; an optical switching device configured to switch between a first condition that allows laser pulses emitted from the laser to be output from the laser system and a second condition that prevents laser pulses emitted from the laser from being output from the laser system; and a laser pulse controller configured to transmit an optical switching control signal to the optical switching device, wherein the optical switching control signal transmitted by the laser pulse controller controls the length of a pulse picking cycle and the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle, and wherein the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle is adjustable in a range that includes more than 50% of the laser pulses in each pulse picking cycle.

[0010] In some embodiments, the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle may be adjustable in a range of 0% to 100% of the laser pulses in each pulse picking cycle. In some embodiments, when the laser system is set so that the number of laser pulses emitted by the laser in each pulse picking cycle is N, the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle is adjustable in a range including 1 and N-1.

[0011] In some embodiments, the optical switching control signal transmitted by the laser pulse controller includes a first signal that controls the length of a pulse picking period and a second signal that controls the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking period. The first signal may be a synchronization signal.

[0012] In some embodiments, the optical switching device is further configured to control the amount of energy of the laser pulse emitted from the laser that is output from the laser system.

[0013] In some embodiments, the surgical system may further include an adjustable input device configured to be actuated within an operating range. The operating range of the adjustable input device may be configured to allow an operator to dynamically control the amount of energy of the laser pulses output from the laser system and emitted from the laser. The operating range of the adjustable input device may be configured to allow an operator to dynamically control the percentage of the laser pulses output from the laser system and emitted from the laser. The adjustable input device may include a foot pedal configured to be actuated within the operating range.

[0014] In some embodiments, the optical switching device includes a shutter and a shutter motor. The shutter motor can be configured to move the shutter in an alternating manner between a first position corresponding to a first condition of the optical switching device and a second position corresponding to a second condition of the optical switching device. The shutter can include a reflector. In some embodiments, the shutter has a rotation axis and at least one open area and at least one solid area arranged around the rotation axis of the shutter, wherein the shutter motor is configured to rotate the shutter around the rotation axis of the shutter, wherein the first condition of the optical switching device corresponds to a position of the shutter, in which the solid area of ​​the shutter is not located on the path of the laser pulse emitted from the laser, and wherein the second condition of the optical switching device corresponds to a position of the shutter, in which the solid area of ​​the shutter is located on the path of the laser pulse emitted from the laser.

[0015] In some embodiments, the optical switching device may further include a laser energy control system configured to adjust the amount of electromagnetic energy of each laser pulse that leaves the laser system. The laser energy control system may include: a wave plate, a wave plate motor, and a polarizer plate, wherein the wave plate motor is configured to move the wave plate into different positions corresponding to different percentages of the laser electromagnetic energy that is allowed to pass through the laser energy control system. In some embodiments, the optical switching device includes a Pockels cell.

[0016] In some embodiments, a method of controlling a surgical system includes: (i) providing input to the surgical system, wherein the surgical system includes: a laser configured to emit electromagnetic radiation in the form of laser pulses; an optical switching device configured to switch between a first condition that allows laser pulses emitted from the laser to be output from the laser system and a second condition that prevents laser pulses emitted from the laser from being output from the laser system; and a laser pulse controller configured to transmit an optical switching control signal to the optical switching device, wherein the input to the surgical system controls the length of a pulse picking cycle and the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle, wherein the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle is adjustable within a range that includes more than 50% of the laser pulses in each pulse picking cycle; (ii) emitting electromagnetic radiation in the form of laser pulses from the laser; and (iii) outputting laser pulses from the laser system based on the input that controls the length of the pulse picking cycle and the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle.

[0017] In some embodiments, the step of outputting laser pulses from the laser system based on the input includes controlling the percentage of laser pulses output from the laser system that are emitted from the laser. In some embodiments, the step of outputting laser pulses from the laser system based on the input includes controlling the amount of energy of laser pulses output from the laser system that are emitted from the laser.

[0018] Other examples and features of embodiments of the present invention will be apparent from the accompanying drawings and detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] The drawings illustrate example implementations of the systems and methods disclosed herein and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 1 An example ophthalmic surgical console is shown having a foot pedal connected thereto.

[0021] Figure 2 An example of an architecture for a surgical system including a laser system is shown.

[0022] Figure 3 An example of a laser system having components of an optical switching device is shown.

[0023] Figure 4 An example of an architecture for a laser pulse controller is shown.

[0024] Figure 5 Example operating ranges for an adjustable input device, such as a foot pedal, are shown.

[0025] Figure 6 An example data packet for instructions sent to a laser pulse controller is shown.

[0026] Fig. 7A An example of laser pulses emitted from a laser is shown.

[0027] Figure 7B An example of a static pulse control signal is shown.

[0028] Figure 7C Shown according to Figure 7B The static pulse control signal is the output of the laser pulse.

[0029] Fig. 8A Shown with Fig. 7A Similar examples of laser pulses emitted from a laser.

[0030] Figure 8B An example of a first pulse picking frequency is shown, where 50% of the pulses emitted by the laser are output from the laser system.

[0031] Figure 8C An example of a second pulse picking frequency is shown, in which 50% of the pulses emitted by the laser are output from the laser system.

[0032] Fig.9A Shown with Fig. 7A and Fig. 8A Similar examples of laser pulses emitted from a laser.

[0033] Fig. 9B An example is shown where the laser system is adjusted to output 1 out of every 10 laser pulses emitted by the laser.

[0034] Fig. 9C An example is shown in which the laser system is adjusted to output 5 out of every 10 laser pulses emitted by the laser.

[0035] Fig.9D An example is shown in which the laser system is adjusted to output 9 out of every 10 laser pulses emitted by the laser.

[0036] Fig. 10A Shown with Fig. 7A , Fig. 8A and Fig.9A Similar examples of laser pulses emitted from a laser.

[0037] Fig. 10B An example is shown where the laser system is adjusted to output 1 out of every 16 laser pulses emitted by the laser.

[0038] Fig. 10CAn example is shown where the laser system is adjusted to output 8 out of every 16 laser pulses emitted by the laser.

[0039] Fig. 10D An example is shown where the laser system is adjusted to output 15 out of every 16 laser pulses emitted by the laser.

[0040] The drawings can be better understood with reference to the following detailed description. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] For the purpose of promoting understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the implementations illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and specific language will be used to describe those implementations and other implementations. Nevertheless, it will be understood that the examples shown in the drawings or described herein are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. Those skilled in the art in the technical field to which the present disclosure relates are generally fully able to envision any changes and further modifications to the illustrated or described systems, devices, instruments or methods, as well as any further applications of the principles of the present disclosure. In particular, the features, components and / or steps described with respect to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be combined with the features, components and / or steps described with respect to other embodiments of the present disclosure. For simplicity, in some cases, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts.

[0042] The names "first" and "second" as used herein are not meant to indicate or imply any particular positioning or other characteristics. Rather, when the names "first" and "second" are used herein, they are only used to distinguish one component from another. Unless direct or indirect attachment, connection, coupling, etc. is specified, the terms "attachment", "connection", "coupling", etc. indicate that one part is attached, connected, coupled, etc. to another part directly or indirectly through one or more other parts.

[0043] Figure 1 An example ophthalmic surgical console 100 is shown having a foot pedal 106 connected thereto. The example ophthalmic surgical console 100 may be used in systems and methods according to the present disclosure. The ophthalmic surgical console 100 may be similar to an ophthalmic surgical console as shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 9,931,447, the entire disclosure of which is hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference. The ophthalmic surgical console 100 may be similar to an ophthalmic surgical console that is known and has been used, for example, in a surgical console available from Alcon Laboratories, Inc. (Fort Worth, Texas, USA). Vision system or CONSTELLA available from Alcon Laboratories, Inc. (Fort Worth, Texas, USA) vision system, or any other ophthalmic surgical console suitable for use with the principles described herein.

[0044] like Figure 1 As shown, an example ophthalmic surgical console 100 includes a housing 102 in which a computer system is disposed and an associated display screen 104 that displays data related to system operation and performance during an ophthalmic surgical procedure.

[0045] The foot pedal 106 is an adjustable input device that the operator can actuate within an operating range to control one or more functions. The foot pedal 106 can be depressed to a plurality of different positions within the operating range to control functions, as further described below. Although the foot pedal 106 is shown, other adjustable input devices, such as manual buttons or knobs, may also be used. The foot pedal 106 or other adjustable input device may be connected to the surgical console 100 via a wired or wireless connection.

[0046] The surgical console 100 includes one or more systems that can be used to perform an ophthalmic surgical procedure. For example, the surgical console 100 can include a fluid system including an irrigation system for delivering fluid to the eye and an aspiration system for aspirating fluid from the eye.

[0047] Example surgical systems according to the present disclosure may include a laser system suitable for one or more ophthalmic procedures. Figure 2 An example of an architecture for a surgical system is shown that includes a surgical console 100, an adjustable input device (e.g., a foot pedal 106), and an example laser system 200. The laser system 200 may include a laser 212, an optical switch 214, and a laser pulse controller 216. In some embodiments, the laser system 200 may be housed within the surgical console 100. In other embodiments, the laser system 200 may be housed in a separate console that communicates with the surgical console 100. In other embodiments, one or more portions of the laser system 200 (such as the laser 212 and the optical switch 214) may be housed in a separate console that communicates with the surgical console 100, while one or more other portions of the laser system 200 (such as the laser pulse controller 216) may be housed in the surgical console 100. In other embodiments, the laser system 200 may be located in a separate housing that may receive input from a foot pedal or other adjustable input device 106 without requiring a separate surgical console 100.

[0048] In addition to the laser 212, the optical switching device 214, and the laser pulse controller 216, the laser system 200 may also have other components. For example, the laser system 200 may include components for operating the laser, such as a power supply, a laser pump, a laser energy control, and a monitor. In addition, the laser system 200 may include other components in the optical path of the laser output, such as one or more lenses, mirrors, and optical fibers (not shown).

[0049] In some embodiments, the laser system 200 can be suitable for cataract surgery. In some embodiments, the output energy of the laser system is suitable for fragmentation and / or emulsification of cataractous lenses. In some examples, the laser output is used to fragment and / or phacoemulsify the lens to a sufficient degree to remove the lens.

[0050] In some embodiments, the laser system 200 can be suitable for glaucoma surgery. In some embodiments, the output energy of the laser system is suitable for causing or promoting the formation of drainage channels in ocular tissue.

[0051] Laser 212 can be any type of laser suitable for the desired application. Laser 212 can output suitable electromagnetic radiation of any suitable wavelength. For example, laser 212 can emit electromagnetic radiation of one or more wavelengths of visible wavelengths, infrared wavelengths, and / or ultraviolet wavelengths. Laser 212 can operate or be operated to emit a continuous beam of electromagnetic radiation. Alternatively, laser 212 can operate or be operated to emit a pulsed beam.

[0052] In one example, laser 212 operates in the infrared range. For example, laser 212 can output electromagnetic radiation in the mid-infrared range (e.g., in the range of about 2.0 microns to about 4.0 microns). Some example wavelengths include about 2.5 microns to 3.5 microns, such as about 2.775 microns, about 2.8 microns, or about 3.0 microns. Such a laser can be suitable, for example, for lens fragmentation in cataract surgery, or for other procedures.

[0053] The laser system 200 is designed to direct the laser electromagnetic radiation from the laser 212 to the output port. The laser system 200 may direct the laser electromagnetic radiation from the laser 212 to the output port through one or more optical components, such as lenses and mirrors.

[0054] The instrument can be optically connected to the laser system 200 to receive laser electromagnetic radiation from the output port. The instrument can be, for example, a handpiece used in an ophthalmic procedure. The instrument or handpiece can be connected to the laser system via a delivery fiber. The delivery fiber can be flexible and relatively long to give the operator the flexibility to manipulate the handpiece at a distance away from the laser system 200. The laser electromagnetic radiation can be transmitted from the laser system 200, through the optical fiber and the handpiece, and from the output end of the handpiece to a desired target, such as a lens or lens fragment in the patient's eye.

[0055] Optical switching device 214 is a device that operates to allow laser electromagnetic radiation (e.g., laser pulses) emitted from laser 212 to be output from the laser system or to prevent laser electromagnetic radiation (e.g., laser pulses) emitted from laser 212 from being output from the laser system. Under the control of laser pulse controller 216, optical switching device 214 can switch back and forth between these two conditions.

[0056] In some examples, the optical switching device 214 may include a shutter and a shutter motor. Examples of suitable optical switching devices are described and illustrated in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 186,387 (hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety) and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 222,521 (hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety).

[0057] For example, the optical switching device 214 may include a shutter that is moved into or out of the path of the laser electromagnetic radiation by a shutter motor to selectively allow or prevent the laser electromagnetic radiation from being output from the laser system. The shutter motor may be configured to move the shutter in an alternating manner between a first position corresponding to a first condition of the optical switching device, wherein laser electromagnetic energy (e.g., laser pulses) emitted from the laser is allowed to be output from the laser system, and a second position corresponding to a second condition of the optical switching device, wherein laser electromagnetic energy (e.g., laser pulses) emitted from the laser is prevented from being output from the laser system. In an example, the shutter includes a reflector and the shutter motor includes a galvanometer motor.

[0058] In another example, the optical switching device 214 may include: (i) a shutter having a rotation axis and at least one open area and at least one solid area arranged around the rotation axis of the shutter, and (ii) a shutter motor configured to rotate the shutter around the rotation axis of the shutter. In this example, a first condition of the optical switching device (wherein laser electromagnetic energy (e.g., laser pulses) emitted from the laser is allowed to be output from the laser system) corresponds to a position of the shutter where the solid area of ​​the shutter is not located in the path of the laser pulses emitted from the laser, and a second condition of the optical switching device (wherein laser electromagnetic energy (e.g., laser pulses) emitted from the laser is prevented from being output from the laser system) corresponds to a position of the shutter where the solid area of ​​the shutter is located in the path of the laser pulses emitted from the laser.

[0059] The optical switching device 214 may further include a laser energy control system configured to adjust the amount of electromagnetic energy of each laser pulse that leaves the laser system. For example, the laser energy control system may include a wave plate, a wave plate motor, and a polarizer plate, wherein the wave plate motor is configured to move the wave plate to different positions corresponding to different percentages of the laser electromagnetic energy that is allowed to pass through the laser energy control system. Examples of such laser energy control systems are described and illustrated in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 186,387 (hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 222,521 (incorporated herein by reference as described above).

[0060] In another alternative embodiment, the optical switching device 214 may include a Pockels cell. Under the control of the laser pulse controller 216, the Pockels cell optical switching device may switch back and forth between a first condition that allows the laser pulse emitted from the laser to be output from the laser system and a second condition that prevents the laser pulse emitted from the laser from being output from the laser system. In addition, the Pockels cell optical switching device may also be operated incrementally to allow different percentages of the electromagnetic energy emitted by the laser to be output by the laser system.

[0061] The laser pulse controller 216 is configured to transmit optical switching control signals to the optical switching device 214. The optical switching control signals are based on inputs to the surgical system, including inputs from an adjustable input device (eg, foot pedal 106), if an adjustable input device is provided.

[0062] Figure 3An example of a laser system 200 having components of an optical switching device 214 is shown. In the example shown, the optical switching device 214 includes a power control device 222 and a pulse picking device 224. The pulse picking device 224 may include any suitable pulse picking device, including but not limited to a pulse picking device based on a shutter as described above. The power control device 222 may include any suitable power control device, including but not limited to a power control device based on a wave plate as described above. In an alternative embodiment, a pockels cell arrangement may serve as the pulse picking device 224 and / or the power control device 222. The laser system 200 may further include a beam polarizer 226. The laser pulse controller 216 sends a laser power control signal and a pulse picking control signal to the optical switching device 214. As described above, the handpiece 228 may be connected to the output port of the laser system 200, for example, by a cable having an optical fiber. The output laser pulse train from the laser system 200 travels through the optical fiber and handpiece 228 to the target (eg, cataractous lens, trabecular meshwork, scleral tissue, other tissue, etc.).

[0063] Figure 4 An example of an architecture for the laser pulse controller 216 is shown. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, use of the controller in a processing environment may be implemented in software, firmware, hardware, or some suitable combination of software, firmware, and / or hardware, such as software that is loaded into a processor and executed. The laser pulse controller 216 may be implemented in software, firmware, hardware, or some suitable combination of software, firmware, and / or hardware, such as software that is loaded into a processor and executed.

[0064] The example laser pulse controller 216 includes a serial transmitter / receiver (Tx / Rx) module 231 that communicates with a serial communication (Tx / Rx) controller or similar device (e.g., a device similar to a UART, CAN bus, or Ethernet) of the surgical console 100. In use, the surgical console 100 sends packets of data to the laser pulse controller 216, which are received by the serial Tx / Rx module 231. As described in more detail below, the packets may include data based at least in part on input from the adjustable input device 106. The packet parsing module 232 of the laser pulse controller 216 is configured to parse the packet data. In the illustrated example, the packet parsing module 232 sends repetition rate data to a repetition rate control module 233, mode data to a mode detection module 234, power data to a mode power control module 235, pulse picking frequency data to a pulse picking frequency control module 236, pulse picking duty cycle data to a pulse picking duty cycle control module 237, pulse picking number data to a pulse picking number control module 238, and sub-range data to a sub-range control module 239. The repetition rate control module 233 also receives a laser trigger input signal that indicates the timing of the start of each laser pulse. The repetition rate control module 233 sends a signal indicating the repetition rate of the laser to an output pulse control module 240, which may also receive the laser trigger input signal. The output pulse control module 240 also receives input signals from the mode detection module 234, the mode power control module 235, the pulse picking frequency control module 236, the pulse picking duty cycle control module 237, the pulse picking number control module 238 and the sub-range control module 239 based on their respective input data.

[0065] The output pulse control module 240 of the laser pulse controller 216 sends an optical switching control signal to the optical switching device 214, wherein the optical switching control signal may be based at least in part on the input from the adjustable input device 106. The optical switching control signal transmitted by the laser pulse controller 216 to the optical switching device 214 may include a pulse picking rate signal (e.g., a Pulse_Picking_Sync signal or a Pulse_Picking_Out signal) that controls the length of the pulse picking cycle. For example, the pulse picking rate signal may be a synchronization signal (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Sync) that is a timing signal corresponding to the pulse picking rate, for example, a signal marking the start of each pulse picking cycle. The optical switching control signal transmitted by the laser pulse controller 216 to the optical switching device 214 may also include a pulse control signal (e.g., a Pulse_Picking_Duty signal or a Pulse_Control_Out signal) that controls the percentage or number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle. The optical switching control signal transmitted by the laser pulse controller 216 to the optical switching device 214 may also include a power level signal (e.g., a Mode_Power_Data signal or a Mode_Power_Out signal) that controls the amount of energy of the laser pulses output from the laser system. A repetition rate signal (e.g., Rep_Rate_Out) may be sent to control the repetition rate of the laser pulses emitted by the laser.

[0066] As described in more detail below, the pulse control signal (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Duty) can enable a series of pulses to be output in each pulse picking cycle. As described in more detail below, the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle can be adjustable in a range including more than 50% of the laser pulses in each pulse picking cycle. In some embodiments, the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle can be adjustable in a range of 0% to 100% of the laser pulses in each pulse picking cycle. In some embodiments, when the laser system is set so that the number of laser pulses emitted by the laser in each pulse picking cycle is N, the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle can be adjustable in a range including 1 and N-1 and optionally 0 and / or N (e.g., a range of 0 to N, 1 to N, 0 to N-1, 1 to N-1, etc.). For example, when the laser system is set so that the number of laser pulses emitted by the laser in each pulse picking cycle is 10, the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle may be adjustable in a range including 1 and 9, and in some embodiments, 0 and / or 10. As another example, when the laser system is set so that the number of laser pulses emitted by the laser in each pulse picking cycle is 16, the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle may be adjustable in a range including 1 and 15, and in some embodiments, 0 and / or 16.

[0067] The output pulse control module 240 of the laser pulse controller 216 may also send a message confirmation signal to the data packet framing module 241. The data packet framing module 241 assembles the data from the message confirmation signal and sends it as a data packet of data to the serial Tx / Rx module 231. The Tx / Rx module 231 then sends the data packet of data to the serial Tx / Rx controller of the surgical console 100 based on the message confirmation signal to confirm the signal from the laser pulse controller 216.

[0068] Figure 5 An example operating range for an adjustable input device, such as a foot pedal 106, is shown. An operator can actuate the foot pedal 106 or other adjustable input device within the operating range to control the laser output. In the example of a foot pedal, the operator depresses the foot pedal by a desired amount to move the foot pedal to a desired area of ​​the operating range. In other examples, such as a manual button or knob, the operator moves or tunes the input device to a desired area of ​​the operating range. In some embodiments, the foot pedal or other adjustable input device can be adjustable in real time during a surgical procedure, thereby giving the operator the ability to dynamically control the laser pulses output from the laser system during the procedure.

[0069] Many different functional examples are possible within the operating range. In the example shown, the operating range includes three sub-ranges, but more or fewer sub-ranges may also be used.

[0070] The following is a description of one of many examples. When the adjustable input device is moved or tuned to sub-range 1, the surgical console can be activated for a specific function, such as irrigation, without any laser output. When the adjustable input device is moved or tuned to sub-range 2, the surgical console can be activated for a different function, such as aspiration, without any laser output. The irrigation function can continue to operate in sub-range 2. When the adjustable input device is moved or tuned to sub-range 3, the laser system can be activated to output laser electromagnetic energy. The irrigation and / or aspiration functions can continue to operate in sub-range 3. By moving or tuning the adjustable input device within sub-range 3, the operator can dynamically adjust the laser output, as described below.

[0071] Many variations are possible. For example, sub-range 2 and sub-range 3 in the above example can be reversed so that laser control occurs in sub-range 2 and pumping occurs in sub-range 3.

[0072] In one example, the adjustment of the adjustable input device controls the percentage of electromagnetic energy of the laser pulse output. That is, the laser emits laser pulses at a specific energy, and the input from the adjustable input device is used to adjust the laser energy control system of the optical switching device 214 to control the energy percentage of the laser pulse output from the laser system. Based on the input from the adjustable input device, the power level signal (e.g., Mode_Power_Data) sent by the laser pulse controller 216 to the optical switching device 214 can be adjusted to control the amount of energy of the laser pulse output from the laser system. For example, the top of sub-range 3 can correspond to 0% laser energy output, the bottom of sub-range 3 can correspond to 100% laser energy output, and the position between the two can correspond to an increment within the range of 0% to 100%. In other examples, the operating range of the adjustable input device is configured to allow the operator to dynamically control the percentage of laser pulses emitted from the laser system output from the laser. In other examples, adjusting the adjustable input device to the sub-range 3 or to a specific point in the sub-range 3 can act as an on-off switch that triggers the operation of the laser system at the set output.

[0073] One or more inputs to the system, such as from a touch screen (with a graphical user interface), a button, a dial, a knob, a foot pedal, an adjustable input device, or other input device, can be used to control the laser system to output only certain laser pulses of the laser pulses emitted by the laser. That is, the laser emits laser pulses at a specific repetition rate, and the input is used to control the optical switching device 214 to switch back and forth between a first condition that allows the laser pulses emitted from the laser to be output from the laser system and a second condition that prevents the laser pulses emitted from the laser from being output from the laser system. One or more of the inputs to the system may include or be part of the console 100, the adjustable input device 106, and / or an external control system (e.g., having its own touch screen (with a graphical user interface), a button, a dial, a knob, or other input device).

[0074] In some embodiments, user input controls the pulse picking frequency and the pulse picking duty cycle, which controls the length of the pulse picking period. Based on the input, the laser pulse controller sends signals (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Sync and Pulse_Picking_Duty signals) to the optical switching device and controls the pulse picking period and the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking period. For example, if the repetition rate of the laser is 1000 Hz, a pulse picking rate of 100 Hz produces 10 pulses / cycle. By selecting an input to control the pulse picking duty cycle, different pulse ranges per cycle (e.g., ranges of 1 to 9, 1 to 10, 0 to 9, 0 to 10, etc.) can be output, thereby controlling the percentage of laser pulses output.

[0075] In some examples, the repetition rate of the laser and the energy output of the laser (including different energy outputs of the laser if desired) can also be selected through an adjustable input device or another input device (such as a touch screen, button, dial, knob, or other input).

[0076] Figure 6An example data packet for instructions sent to a laser pulse controller is shown. The data packet includes the following data: packet header, mode, mode power, repetition rate, pulse picking frequency, pulse picking duty cycle, pulse picking number, sub-range 1, sub-range 2, sub-range 3, and packet trailer. The packet header identifies the beginning of the data packet. Mode identifies which operating mode has been selected. Mode power identifies the selected power output of the laser. Repetition rate identifies the rate of pulses emitted from the laser. Pulse picking frequency identifies the length of the pulse picking cycle. Pulse picking duty cycle identifies the number or percentage of pulses output in each pulse picking cycle. Pulse picking number identifies the maximum number of laser pulses that can be selected in each pulse picking cycle. Sub-range 1, sub-range 2, and sub-range 3 identify the position to which the adjustable input device has been moved or tuned, including incremental positions within a range (e.g., 0 to 100).

[0077] Fig. 7A An example of laser pulses emitted from a laser is shown, with each upward arrow representing a laser pulse. This shows the repetition rate of the laser pulses emitted by the laser, which in this example is 1 KHz.

[0078] Figure 7B An example of a static pulse control signal is shown. The power level signal (e.g., Mode_Power_Data) is set to 100%. In static mode, as shown, the power level is constant. In variable mode, the power level is adjustable, for example, by an adjustable input device (e.g., a foot pedal).

[0079] Figure 7C Shown according to Figure 7B The static pulse control signal outputs the laser pulses. As can be seen, all laser pulses are output at 100% power.

[0080] Fig. 8A Shown with Fig. 7A Similar examples of laser pulses emitted from a laser. Fig. 7A Again, this shows the repetition rate of the laser pulses emitted by the laser, which in this example is 1KHz.

[0081] Figure 8BAn example of a first pulse picking frequency is shown, where 50% of the pulses emitted by the laser are output from the laser system. In this example, the pulse picking frequency is 100 Hz, which produces 10 laser pulses per pulse picking cycle at a repetition rate of 1 KHz. The pulse picking frequency can be established by a synchronization signal (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Sync) identified by an arrow labeled S, which marks the start of each pulse picking cycle. At a duty cycle of 50%, this results in 5 pulses per pulse picking cycle being output from the system. That is, 5 laser pulses are output, followed by 5 laser pulses that are not output, and this pattern is repeated.

[0082] Figure 8C An example of a second pulse picking frequency is shown, where 50% of the pulses emitted by the laser are output from the laser system. In this example, the pulse picking frequency is 50 Hz, which produces 20 laser pulses per pulse picking cycle at a repetition rate of 1 KHz. Figure 8B In FIG. 1 , the pulse picking frequency can be established by a synchronization signal (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Sync) identified by the arrow labeled S, which marks the start of each pulse picking cycle. At a 50% duty cycle, this results in 10 pulses per pulse picking cycle being output from the system. That is, 10 laser pulses are output, followed by 10 laser pulses that are not output, and this pattern is repeated.

[0083] 7A to 7C and FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C The mode of operation in is similar in output to the mode of operation described and illustrated in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 256,071 (the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein). For example, Figure 7C shows an output similar to the engraving mode described and illustrated in that application, while Figure 8B and Figure 8C An output similar to the quadruple mode described and illustrated in that application is shown. 9A to 9D and FIG. 10A to FIG. 10D Illustrated is how embodiments herein enable additional flexibility in the percentage of laser pulses that can be output in each pulse picking cycle. In certain embodiments herein, the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle is adjustable in a range that includes more than 50% of the laser pulses in each pulse picking cycle. In certain embodiments herein, up to 100% of the laser pulses in a pulse picking cycle can be output. When operating with 100% positive output of laser pulses, these embodiments are similar to embodiments in engraving mode. When operating with less than 100% positive output of laser pulses, these embodiments are similar to embodiments in quadruple mode.

[0084] Fig.9A Shown with Fig. 7A and Fig. 8A Similar examples of laser pulses emitted from a laser. Fig. 7A and Fig. 8A Again, this shows the repetition rate of the laser pulses emitted by the laser, which in this example is 1KHz.

[0085] Fig. 9B An example is shown in which a laser system is adjusted to output 1 out of every 10 laser pulses emitted by the laser. In this example, the pulse picking frequency is 100 Hz, which produces 10 laser pulses per pulse picking cycle at a repetition rate of 1 KHz. The pulse picking frequency can be established by a synchronization signal (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Sync), identified by an arrow labeled S, which marks the start of each pulse picking cycle. A duty cycle signal (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Duty) establishes the number or percentage of laser pulses allowed to be output from the system in each pulse picking cycle. Fig. 9B In the example of , the duty cycle is 10%, or 1 in 10 pulses. This results in 1 pulse being output from the system per pulse picking cycle. That is, 1 laser pulse is output, followed by 9 laser pulses that are not output, and this pattern repeats.

[0086] Fig. 9C An example is shown in which the laser system is adjusted to output 5 out of every 10 laser pulses emitted by the laser. Fig. 9B In , the pulse picking frequency is 100 Hz, which produces 10 laser pulses per pulse picking cycle at a repetition rate of 1 kHz. Fig. 9B In , the pulse picking frequency can be established by a synchronization signal (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Sync) identified by an arrow labeled S, which marks the beginning of each pulse picking cycle. A duty cycle signal (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Duty) establishes the number or percentage of laser pulses allowed to be output from the system during each pulse picking cycle. Fig. 9C In the example of , the duty cycle is 50%, or 5 out of 10 pulses. This results in 5 pulses per pulse picking cycle being output from the system. That is, 5 laser pulses are output, followed by 5 laser pulses that are not output, and this pattern repeats.

[0087] Fig.9D An example is shown in which the laser system is adjusted to output 9 out of every 10 laser pulses emitted by the laser. Fig. 9B and Fig. 9C In , the pulse picking frequency is 100 Hz, which produces 10 laser pulses per pulse picking cycle at a repetition rate of 1 kHz. Fig. 9B and Fig. 9C In , the pulse picking frequency can be established by a synchronization signal (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Sync) identified by an arrow labeled S, which marks the beginning of each pulse picking cycle. A duty cycle signal (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Duty) establishes the number or percentage of laser pulses allowed to be output from the system during each pulse picking cycle. Fig.9D In the example of , the duty cycle is 90%, or 9 out of 10 pulses. This results in 9 pulses being output from the system per pulse picking cycle. That is, 9 laser pulses are output, followed by 1 laser pulse which is not output, and this pattern is repeated.

[0088] Fig. 10A Shown with Fig. 7A , Fig. 8A and Fig.9A Similar examples of laser pulses emitted from a laser. Fig. 7A , Fig. 8A and Fig.9A Again, this shows the repetition rate of the laser pulses emitted by the laser, which in this example is 1KHz.

[0089] Fig. 10B An example is shown in which the laser system is adjusted to output 1 of every 16 laser pulses emitted by the laser. In this example, the pulse picking frequency is 62.5 Hz, which produces 16 laser pulses per pulse picking cycle at a repetition rate of 1 KHz. The pulse picking frequency can be established by a synchronization signal (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Sync) identified by an arrow labeled S, which marks the start of each pulse picking cycle. A duty cycle signal (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Duty) establishes the number or percentage of laser pulses allowed to be output from the system in each pulse picking cycle. Fig. 10B In the example of , the duty cycle is 6.25%, or 1 in 16 pulses. This results in 1 pulse being output from the system per pulse picking cycle. That is, 1 laser pulse is output, followed by 15 laser pulses that are not output, and this pattern repeats.

[0090] Fig. 10C An example is shown in which the laser system is adjusted to output 8 out of every 16 laser pulses emitted by the laser. Fig. 10B In , the pulse picking frequency is 62.5 Hz, which results in 16 laser pulses per pulse picking cycle at a repetition rate of 1 kHz. Fig. 10BIn , the pulse picking frequency can be established by a synchronization signal (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Sync) identified by an arrow labeled S, which marks the beginning of each pulse picking cycle. A duty cycle signal (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Duty) establishes the number or percentage of laser pulses allowed to be output from the system during each pulse picking cycle. Fig. 10C In the example of , the duty cycle is 50%, or 8 out of 16 pulses. This results in 8 pulses per pulse picking cycle being output from the system. That is, 8 laser pulses are output, followed by 8 laser pulses that are not output, and this pattern is repeated.

[0091] Fig. 10D An example is shown in which the laser system is adjusted to output 15 of every 16 laser pulses emitted by the laser. Fig. 10B and Fig. 10C In , the pulse picking frequency is 62.5 Hz, which results in 16 laser pulses per pulse picking cycle at a repetition rate of 1 kHz. Fig. 10B and Fig. 10C In , the pulse picking frequency can be established by a synchronization signal (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Sync) identified by an arrow labeled S, which marks the beginning of each pulse picking cycle. A duty cycle signal (e.g., Pulse_Picking_Duty) establishes the number or percentage of laser pulses allowed to be output from the system during each pulse picking cycle. Fig.9D In the example of , the duty cycle is 93.75%, or 15 out of 16 pulses. This results in 15 pulses being output from the system per pulse picking cycle. That is, 15 laser pulses are output, followed by 1 laser pulse which is not output, and this pattern is repeated.

[0092] The maximum number of pulses that can be selected for output in each pulse picking cycle is based on both the repetition rate and the pulse picking rate of the laser. The following table shows how adjustments to the pulse picking rate change the maximum number of pulses that can be selected for output in each pulse picking cycle for repetition rates of 1100 Hz and 1000 Hz and for some example pulse picking rates:

[0093]

[0094] Any repetition rate suitable for the desired application may be used. As an additional example, the following table shows how adjustments to the pulse picking rate change the maximum number of pulses that can be selected for output in each pulse picking cycle for repetition rates of 1500 Hz and 2000 Hz and for certain example pulse picking rates:

[0095]

[0096]

[0097] By selecting and / or adjusting the repetition rate, pulse picking rate, and pulse picking duty cycle, any desired order of enabling laser pulse output and preventing laser pulse output can be selected. The adjustable input devices and systems and methods disclosed herein enable an operator to have flexible control over laser pulse output.

[0098] An example method of controlling a surgical system as described herein is as follows. An operator selects inputs for an operating mode, maximum power, repetition rate, pulse pick rate, and duty cycle of the laser. In some embodiments, certain options may be provided for selection, wherein, depending on the operator's selection, the surgical system sets the operating mode, maximum power, repetition rate, pulse pick rate, and / or duty cycle of the laser. Alternatively, any of these parameters may be preset. The operator operates the system, wherein the laser output of the handpiece is directed to a desired location (e.g., a cataractous lens, trabecular meshwork, scleral tissue, other tissue, etc.). Based on the inputs and optionally other parameters, control signals are sent (e.g., via a laser such as Figure 6 The laser pulse controller sends an optical switching control signal to the optical switching device based on the input to control the laser output. The laser emits electromagnetic radiation from the laser in the form of laser pulses. Based on the input, the optical switching device selectively allows certain laser pulses to be output and prevents certain laser pulses from being output. In some embodiments, the operator can actuate an adjustable input device (e.g., a foot pedal) within an operating range to dynamically control the power of the laser pulses output from the laser system.

[0099] The optical switching control signal may include a pulse picking frequency signal that controls the length of a pulse picking period and a pulse picking duty cycle control signal that controls the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking period. An operator may dynamically adjust the adjustable input device in real time to adjust the power output, i.e., the power level signal may be based on a dynamic input from the adjustable input device. An operator may dynamically adjust the adjustable input device in real time to adjust the power level signal and, therefore, the amount of energy of the laser pulses output from the laser system. In other examples, an operator may dynamically adjust the adjustable input device in real time to adjust the number or percentage of laser pulses output from the laser and emitted from the laser system.

[0100] The operator can switch inputs. The selected input can be based on procedure type, procedure phase, conditions, or other factors.

[0101] The ability to selectively output laser pulses and / or control laser output energy is useful for procedures where laser control is advantageous. For example, in cataract surgery, it may be desirable to operate the laser system at high power in order to initially break the lens. It may be desirable to operate the laser system at lower power in order to break smaller fragments, so lower energy levels may be preferred. Pulse number control and / or pulse energy level control of the laser pulses allow the correct level of force to be applied to smaller particles, which otherwise may be pushed away before they can be sucked out of the eye by the perfusion system of the handpiece. As another example, for glaucoma treatment, it may be desirable to operate the laser system with a single laser pulse or only a few laser pulses to form a channel through the eye tissue. For such procedures, a longer pulse picking frequency may be desirable. For example, in the case of a long pulse picking cycle and a low duty cycle, the system may be configured so that the operator can fire one or only a few laser pulses at a time. For example, in some embodiments, the operator may use a foot pedal to fire one or only a few laser pulses at a time. It may also be desirable to use soft or low energy for certain glaucoma procedures.

[0102] As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, the systems and methods disclosed herein have advantages over existing systems and methods. For example, the systems and methods described herein allow for simple, flexible and / or dynamic control of laser pulses and / or energy, thereby improving the simplicity, time, efficiency, accuracy, effectiveness and / or cost of the procedure.

[0103] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the embodiments encompassed by the present disclosure are not limited to the specific example embodiments described above. Although illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, a wide range of modifications, changes, and substitutions are contemplated in the foregoing disclosure. It will be appreciated that such changes may be made to the foregoing without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the appended claims should be interpreted broadly and in a manner consistent with the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A surgical system, include: a laser configured to emit electromagnetic radiation in the form of laser pulses; an optical switching device configured to switch between a first condition that allows laser pulses emitted from the laser to be output from the laser system and a second condition that prevents laser pulses emitted from the laser from being output from the laser system; as well as a laser pulse controller configured to transmit an optical switching control signal to the optical switching device; wherein the optical switching control signal transmitted by the laser pulse controller controls the length of a pulse picking cycle and the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle; and Wherein, the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle is adjustable in a range including more than 50% of the laser pulses in each pulse picking cycle.

2. The surgical system according to claim 1, in, The number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle is adjustable in a range of 0% to 100% of the laser pulses in each pulse picking cycle.

3. The surgical system according to claim 1, in, When the laser system is set so that the number of laser pulses emitted by the laser in each pulse picking period is N, the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking period is adjustable in a range including 1 and N-1.

4. The surgical system according to claim 1, in, The optical switching control signal transmitted by the laser pulse controller includes a first signal that controls the length of a pulse picking period and a second signal that controls the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking period.

5. The surgical system according to claim 4, in, The first signal is a synchronization signal.

6. The surgical system according to claim 1, in, The optical switching device is further configured to control the amount of energy of the laser pulses emitted from the laser that is output from the laser system.

7. The surgical system of claim 1, further comprising an adjustable input device configured to be actuated within an operating range.

8. The surgical system according to claim 7, in, The operating range of the adjustable input device is configured to allow an operator to dynamically control the amount of energy output from the laser system of a laser pulse emitted from the laser.

9. The surgical system according to claim 7, in, The operating range of the adjustable input device is configured to allow an operator to dynamically control a percentage of laser pulses emitted from the laser that are output from the laser system.

10. The surgical system according to claim 7, in, The adjustable input device includes a foot pedal configured to be actuated within the operating range.

11. The surgical system of claim 1, in, The optical switching device includes a shutter and a shutter motor.

12. The surgical system according to claim 11, in, The shutter motor is configured to move the shutter in an alternating manner between a first position corresponding to a first condition of the optical switching device and a second position corresponding to a second condition of the optical switching device.

13. The surgical system of claim 12, in, The shutter includes a reflector.

14. The surgical system of claim 11, in, The shutter has a rotation axis and at least one open area and at least one solid area arranged about the rotation axis of the shutter; wherein the shutter motor is configured to rotate the shutter about a rotation axis of the shutter; wherein the first condition of the optical switching device corresponds to a position of the shutter, in which a solid area of ​​the shutter is not located on a path of a laser pulse emitted from the laser; and The second condition of the optical switching device corresponds to a position of the shutter, in which a solid area of ​​the shutter is located on a path of a laser pulse emitted from the laser.

15. The surgical system of claim 11, in, The optical switching device further includes a laser energy control system configured to regulate the amount of electromagnetic energy of each laser pulse exiting the laser system.

16. The surgical system of claim 15, in, The laser energy control system comprises: Wave plates; wave plate motor; and Polarizer plates; Wherein the wave plate motor is configured to move the wave plate into different positions, the different positions corresponding to different percentages of laser electromagnetic energy allowed to pass through the laser energy control system.

17. The surgical system of claim 1, in, The optical switching device includes a Pockels cell.

18. A method of controlling a surgical system, include: (i) providing input to the surgical system, wherein the surgical system comprises: a laser configured to emit electromagnetic radiation in the form of laser pulses; an optical switching device configured to switch between a first condition that allows the laser pulse emitted from the laser to be output from the laser system and a second condition that prevents the laser pulse emitted from the laser from being output from the laser system; and a laser pulse controller configured to transmit an optical switching control signal to the optical switching device; wherein the inputs to the surgical system include inputs for controlling the length of a pulse picking cycle and the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle; wherein the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking cycle is adjustable in a range that includes more than 50% of the laser pulses in each pulse picking cycle; (ii) emitting electromagnetic radiation in the form of laser pulses from a laser; and (iii) outputting laser pulses from the laser system in accordance with the input controlling the length of a pulse picking period and the number of laser pulses output from the laser system in each pulse picking period.

19. The method of controlling a surgical system according to claim 18, in, The step of outputting laser pulses from the laser system based on the input includes controlling a percentage of laser pulses emitted from the laser that are output from the laser system.

20. The method of controlling a surgical system according to claim 18, in, The step of outputting laser pulses from the laser system in accordance with the input includes controlling the amount of energy of laser pulses emitted from the laser output from the laser system.

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