Importance

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Abstract

Novel apparatus and methods for a circumferential laser and methods for using a circumferential burning laser are disclosed. The circumferential burning laser comprises a conical surface at the distal end of a probe of the laser which is coated with a highly reflective material such as gold. The conical, reflective surface is designed so as to direct the laser light which is emitted through the interior metal lumen of the laser probe so that the laser light is redirected perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the laser probe. This is in contradistinction to the typical laser probe wherein the laser light is directed longitudinally through the end of the laser probe. The laser light is provided by a carbon dioxide laser which is attached at the proximal end of the laser probe. The present invention also comprises methods for using a circumferential burning laser. The methods for using a circumferential burning laser involve placing the above-described laser probe in position relative to a target site. In the preferred embodiment, the laser probe is placed in the urethral canal such that a transurethral resection of benign prostatic hypertrophy may be performed.

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First Claim