A handpiece for topical application of electromagnetic radiation is disclosed,
consisting of a single monolithic transparent block covered by a semitransparent
coating on the faces of the block not directed toward a treatment site. The block
and coating are transparent to visible radiation, allowing the user a direct view
of the treatment site. At the same time, for the safety of the user and a patient,
the monolithic block has a coating of radiation blocking or absorbing material
to selectively prevent treatment radiation from harming a user or patient. In a
preferred embodiment, an optical fiber or fiber bundle coupled to a suitable power
source is directly molded into the monolithic block. This invention is useful for
a broad variety of laser applications, including the treatment of dermatological
diseases and paint removal. The simple monolithic structure allows the device to
be portable and practical in open environments. Optionally, the handpiece may contain
cooling mechanisms to alleviate overheating of the treated site in high power situations.
Other embodiments contain further safeguards including sensors to provide feedback
to the power source for more precise control of radiation and thus are available
in preferred embodiments.
