Laser fusion of biological materials
US5071417A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 15, 1990 |
| Grant date | Dec 10, 1991 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 15, 2010 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2090/502
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus and methods for laser fusion of biological structures are disclosed employing a laser for delivery of a beam of laser radiation to an anastomotic site, together with a reflectance sensor for measuring light reflected from the site and a controller for monitoring changes in the reflectance of the light of the site and controlling the laser in response to the reflectance changes. In one embodiment, the laser radiation is delivered through a hand-held instrument via an optical fiber. The instrument can also include one or more additional fibers for the delivery of illumination light (which can be broadband or white light or radiation from a laser diode) which is reflected and monitored by the reflectance sensor. Reflectance changes during the course of the fusion operation at one or more wavelengths can be monitored (or compared) to provide an indication of the degree of tissue crosslinking and determine when an optimal state of fusion has occurred.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.