Ophthalmic Laser Systems
LSR 115 Ophthalmic Laser Systems is a foundational course designed for biomedical technicians pursuing certification in medical laser equipment service. This vendor-neutral module delves into the operational principles, safety protocols, and maintenance procedures for a range of ophthalmic laser technologies, including excimer refractive, femtosecond, retinal photocoagulator, YAG capsulotomy, and Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) systems. Emphasis is placed on critical service aspects such as gas handling for excimer lasers, intricate delivery systems like slit-lamp and indirect optics, advanced features like eye tracking and beam homogenization, environmental controls, and precise fluence calibration, preparing technicians to diagnose and resolve common faults confidently.
InstructorJacob CalhounPrerequisites
Course outline
Lectures, virtual labs, and graded assignments — completed in your browser.
Syllabus
## Course Syllabus: LSR 115 Ophthalmic Laser Systems ### Course Objectives: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: 1. Identify the fundamental principles of operation for excimer, femtosecond, photocoagulator, YAG, and SLT ophthalmic laser systems. 2. Describe the critical components and functions of laser delivery systems, including slit-lamp, indirect, and fiber optic designs. 3. Explain the importance and methods of beam homogenization, eye tracking, and environmental control (temperature, humidity, gas safety) in ophthalmic laser systems. 4. Perform and interpret fluence calibration procedures to ensure system accuracy and patient safety. 5. Troubleshoot common faults and implement appropriate corrective actions for various ophthalmic laser platforms. 6. Adhere to safety protocols, particularly concerning laser radiation, high voltage, and hazardous gases, during service and maintenance operations. ### Weekly Outline: * **Week 1:** Introduction to Ophthalmic Lasers and Light-Tissue Interaction * **Week 2:** Excimer Refractive Lasers: Principles, Components, and Gas Handling * **Week 3:** Excimer Laser Safety, Environmental Controls, and Routine Maintenance * **Week 4:** Femtosecond Lasers: Principles, Applications, and System Architecture * **Week 5:** Retinal Photocoagulators: Diode and Green Laser Systems, Delivery Methods * **Week 6:** YAG Capsulotomy Lasers: Nd:YAG Principles and Clinical Applications * **Week 7:** Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) Lasers and Their Unique Characteristics * **Week 8:** Midterm Review and Troubleshooting Scenario Workshop * **Week 9:** Advanced Delivery Systems: Slit-Lamp and Indirect Ophthalmoscope Integration * **Week 10:** Beam Homogenization, Optical Delivery Paths, and Alignment Principles * **Week 11:** Eye Tracking Systems: Principles, Calibration, and Fault Diagnosis * **Week 12:** Fluence Calibration: Theory, Measurement Techniques, and Compliance * **Week 13:** Common Faults, Diagnostic Strategies, and Preventative Maintenance Best Practices * **Week 14:** Capstone Service Project: Integrated System Troubleshooting and Repair Simulation