Ultra-small optical probes, imaging optics, and methods for using same
US6445939B1 · kind B1 · utility
757Cited by
122References
11Claims
0Family size
Assignee
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Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 9, 1999 |
| Grant date | Sep 3, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 9, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/4203
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Ultra-small optical probes comprising a single-mode optical fiber and a lens which has substantially the same diameter as the optical fiber. The optical fiber and lens are positioned in a probe housing which is in the form of an insertional medical device such as a guidewire. Connector elements are provided to facilitate the attachment of the probe to an optical system and the quick disconnection of the probe from the optical system. The probe is used to obtain optical measurements in situ in the body of an organism and can be used to guide interventional procedures by a surgeon.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.