Comparison of silica-core optical fibers

摘要

Silica-core optical fibers have become a standard vehicle to remotely deliver high-power laser energy from surgical lasers operating between 200 and 2400 nm. The three primary types of silica-core fibers: plastic-clad; hard-clad; and silica-clad; are discussed. The performance advantages of each are addressed and actual general-surgery medical applications are provided.