Laser pulse shaping to enhance conversion efficiency and protect fiber optic delivery system for disruption of vascular calcium

A catheter system for treating a treatment site within or adjacent to a vessel wall or heart valve, the catheter system comprising:

• a power source that generates a plurality of energy pulses, the power source including a laser;
• a controller that controls the power source so that the plurality of energy pulses overlap and combine to produce a composite energy pulse having a composite pulse shape;
• a light guide that receives the composite energy pulse, the light guide emitting light energy in a direction away from the light guide to generate a plasma pulse away from the light guide, the light guide including an optical fiber;
• and
• an inflatable balloon that encircles a distal end of the light guide,
• wherein the catheter system is configured to generate a pre-bubble at the distal end of the light guide so that the plasma pulse is generated away from the light guide.

A catheter system for treating a treatment site within or adjacent to a vessel wall or heart valve, the catheter system comprising:

• a power source that generates a plurality of energy pulses;
• a controller that controls the power source so that the plurality of energy pulses overlap and combine to produce a composite energy pulse having a composite pulse shape;
• a light guide that receives the composite energy pulse, the light guide emitting light energy in a direction away from the light guide to generate a plasma pulse away from the light guide;
• an inflatable balloon that encircles a distal end of the light guide;
• and a nano surface that is positioned near the distal end of the light guide,
• wherein the catheter system is configured to generate a pre-bubble at the distal end of the light guide so that the plasma pulse is generated away from the light guide.