DIODE LASER SCALPEL
This invention is a device that simultaneously incises an area, and cauterizes the desired tissue. The device incorporates laser energy (2) by some means into a mechanical scalpel (10) so that the incised area is cauterized as well. For example, a laser source is coupled by some means to an optically transparent blade (20) such as a diamond knife. The diamond knife is appropriately coated so that radiation only exits at desired areas. In another example, optical fibers (7, 27) are embedded into a sharp edge blade scalpel with means to couple to a suitable radiation source.