TRASER: Dye cell aspect ratio and parallel vs. sequential pulsing and their relation to energy output

Background and Objective This paper examines some characteristics of the newly described TRASER (total reflection amplification of spontaneous emission of radiation) device, particularly with regard to dye cell aspect-ratio and parallel vs. sequential pulsing, and their relation to energy output. We also examine the association of electrical tension (voltage) over the flash lamps and the pulse train composition with the energy output. Materials and Methods Using a TRASER with design and specifications previously described, a variety of standard output measurements were made while varying a single parameter, namely voltage over the flashlamps, pulse train formation, dye cell aspect-ratio, and utilization of parallel and sequential pulsing. Results There was a linear association of energy output with the electrical tension over the arc lamps. Longer pulse trains resulted in dramatically increased energy output. An increase in dye cell aspect ratio resulted in proportional increases in energy output. Sequential pulsing provided significantly more energy than parallel pulsing at all but the shortest pulse durations. Conclusion These findings are of critical importance to the understanding and optimization of the output characteristics of a TRASER. These can be utilitzed to provide high fluences, very large spot sizes, and variable pulse widths, all important features that can be manipulated to achieve better clinical outcomes in practice. Lasers Surg. Med. 46:140–143, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.