DFG Laser Handpiece for Controlled Ablative and Nonablative Pulses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cosmetic procedures for fractional photothermolysis and transdermal drug delivery lack precise control over the generation of both ablative and non-ablative tissue damage, leading to potential complications and suboptimal treatment outcomes.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using a difference frequency generation (DFG) laser system with a handpiece and optical fiber arrangement to generate and direct both ablative and non-ablative optical energy pulses, allowing for controlled amounts of coagulated tissue within ablated holes in tissue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single laser source is used for both ablative and non-ablative treatment, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and control over tissue damage types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The laser system is segmented into separate ablative and non-ablative laser sources, each optimized for specific tissue interaction mechanisms. This segmentation enables independent optimization of each laser type while maintaining overall system functionality through coordinated control of both sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves multi-functionality by integrating both ablative and non-ablative laser capabilities into a single platform that can perform diverse dermatological treatments. The system can selectively activate either or both laser sources based on treatment requirements, providing versatile functionality without requiring completely separate devices.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple separate laser sources are used for ablative and non-ablative treatment, then control precision over tissue damage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges ablative and non-ablative laser sources into a single integrated platform with unified delivery mechanisms. Both laser sources share common components such as the handpiece, optical fiber delivery system, and control architecture, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to precisely control each laser type's parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated system provides multi-functional capability to perform both ablative and non-ablative treatments using a single device platform. This universality eliminates the need for operators to switch between completely separate devices while maintaining precise control over each treatment mode through dedicated control parameters for each laser source.
3Ease of operation
If conventional laser systems are used without pulse sequencing control, then ease of operation is improved, but treatment efficacy and precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates dynamic pulse sequencing capability that allows real-time adjustment of pulse delivery patterns. The controller can dynamically sequence ablative and non-ablative pulses in specific patterns (e.g., alternating pulses, grouped pulses) to achieve enhanced treatment precision and control over tissue damage characteristics while maintaining ease of use through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor treatment parameters and tissue response in real-time. This feedback enables the control system to automatically adjust pulse sequencing and parameters to maintain optimal treatment precision, reducing the operational burden on the user while ensuring consistent, precise treatment outcomes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise and controlled tissue ablation and coagulation, reducing complications and enhancing treatment efficacy through improved skin tightening and drug absorption.
Implementation Method 1
a difference frequency generation (DFG) laser apparatus... configured to generate both ablative and nonablative optical energy
Implementation Method 2
ablating one or more holes in a region of the tissue surface using electromagnetic energy, such as optical energy produced by a laser
Implementation Method 3
directing further pulses of electromagnetic energy into at least some of the holes to generate further coagulated tissue therein
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for directing optical energy onto a sample, including: a difference frequency generation (DFG) laser apparatus; a handpiece optically coupled to at least a portion of the DFG laser apparatus by an optical fiber arrangement; and a controller in operative communication with the DFG laser apparatus and the handpiece, wherein the DFG laser apparatus is configured to generate both ablative and nonablative optical energy, and wherein the handpiece includes at least one of an optical or a micromechanical element configured to generate a first pulse and a second pulse of optical energy, wherein a first amount of at least one of ablative optical energy or nonablative optical energy in the first pulse is different from a second amount of at least one of ablative optical energy or nonablative optical energy in the second pulse, and wherein the controller is configured to direct the first pulse and the second pulse onto a particular location on the sample using the handpiece.