УСТРОЙСТВО АНАЛИЗА СТЕНКИ КРОВЕНОСНОГО СОСУДА И СПОСОБ АНАЛИЗА СТЕНКИ КРОВЕНОСНОГО СОСУДА

Группа изобретений относится к медицинской технике. Устройство анализа стенки кровеносного сосуда обеспечено структурой, обеспечивающей возможность точного измерения компонентов бляшки на стенке кровеносного сосуда в состоянии, которое уменьшает нагрузку на пациента. При анализе стенки кровеносного сосуда свет измерения излучается на участок измерения внутри кровеносного сосуда, например на сонную артерию, из блока излучения света, обеспеченного снаружи кровеносного сосуда, в то время как свет от участка измерения обнаруживается в блоке приема света, обеспеченном снаружи кровеносного сосуда. Соответственно, так как состояние стенки кровеносного сосуда можно анализировать без введения устройства, используемого в измерении, в кровеносный сосуд, то нагрузка на пациента во время измерения уменьшается. Кроме того, в результате выполнения измерения с использованием света ближней инфракрасной области спектра (компонент света в диапазоне длин волн от 780 нм до 2750 нм), который демонстрирует характеристики ...

УСТРОЙСТВО И СПОСОБ НЕИНВАЗИВНОГО ИЗМЕРЕНИЯ ВЕЩЕСТВА В ОРГАНИЗМЕ

Раскрыт способ и устройство для неинвазивного определения концентрации вещества в организме, например глюкозы в крови человека. Устройство измеряет концентрацию вещества посредством регистрации излучения в дальней инфракрасной области, излучаемого организмом, посредством использования инфракрасного излучения регистрируемого в сочетании с набором соответствующих фильтров. Для достижения требуемой точности значение излучения, определенное детектором, корректируется с учетом излучения компонентов системы. Температура каждого компонента системы, включая температуру детектора и температуру окружающей среды, определяется с помощью температурных датчиков, прикрепленных к различным компонентам системы. Эти температуры соответствуют набору заданных калибровочных параметров для коррекции показаний детектора. 3 н. и 18 з.п. ф-лы, 6 ил.

УСТРОЙСТВО И СПОСОБ НЕИНВАЗИВНОГО ИЗМЕРЕНИЯ ВЕЩЕСТВА В ОРГАНИЗМЕ

... 1. Система для неинвазивного измерения вещества в организме, содержащая:детектор, выполненный с возможностью регистрировать излучение, излучаемое или переизлучаемое организмом;оптическую подсистему, выполненную с возможностью фокусировать излучение на чувствительной области детектора; иодин или более термодатчиков, прикрепленных к одному или более из множества элементов оптической подсистемы и к детектору.2. Система по п.1, в которой температура одного или более из множества элементов оптической подсистемы и температура детектора сопоставляются с набором заданных компенсационных параметров, хранящихся в справочной таблице, для компенсации влияния на неинвазивное измерение температуры каждого из одного или более из множества элементов и детектора, температуры окружающей среды и температуры, измеренной на поверхности организма.3. Система по п.1, в которой детектор содержит датчик энергии инфракрасного излучения.4. Система по п.3, в которой датчик энергии инфракрасного излучения содержит термоэлектрический ...

ДАТЧИК ДЛЯ ОПРЕДЕЛЕНИЯ ПАРАМЕТРОВ ТЕЛА И СПОСОБ ОПРЕДЕЛЕНИЯ ПАРАМЕТРОВ ТЕЛА

... 1. Способ определения биометрических параметров, включающий:проведение хирургической операции по меньшей мере на одном тазобедренном суставе;имплантацию по меньшей мере одного биометрического передатчика в указанном по меньшей мере одном тазобедренном суставе;передачу первой энергетической волны от передатчика на операционный участок, включающий по меньшей мере одно из указанного тазобедренного сустава и участка, прилежащего к нему;количественную оценку характера поведения энергетической волны при помощи передатчика;после передачи первой энергетической волны:передачу второй энергетической волны от передатчика на операционный участок иколичественную оценку характера поведения второй энергетической волны;причем по меньшей мере одну из первой и второй энергетических волн передают колебательным образом в виде импульсов для стимулирования операционного участка в соответствии по меньшей мере с одним обнаруженным параметром операционного участка иопределяют текущее состояние указанного по меньшей ...

SPEKTROSKOPISCHES KATHETERSYSTEM MIT BREIT ABSTIMMBARER QUELLE

Device for the photodynamic endoscopic diagnosis of tumour tissue

Optical probes for corridor surgery

Optical probes for port-based corridor surgery are provided, including a device comprising: a surgical tool mounting adaptor configured for mounting to a surgical tool; an optical probe attached to the surgical tool mounting adaptor, the optical probe comprising: an optical interface end; an optical output end, distal the optical interface end, the optical output end comprising illumination optics and collection optics, the illumination optics configured to illuminate tissue proximal the optical output end, the collection optics configured to collect an optical signal from the tissue; one or more illumination optical fibers configured to convey illumination light from the optical interface end to the illumination optics; and, one or more collection optical fibers configured to convey the optical signal collected by the collection optics to the optical interface end.

Spinal phantom and spinal navigation

OPTICALLY MEASURING THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECT

Apparatus and method for generating high resolution image of human body using terahertz electromagnetic wave and endoscope using the same

DEVICES FOR THE LOCALIZATION OF LESIONS IN FIRM FABRIC

USE OF ULTRAVIOLET, CLOSE-ULTRAVIOLET AND NAHINFRAROT RESONANZRMANSPEKTROSKOPIE ONES AND FLUORESENZSPEKTOSKOPIE FOR FABRIC INVESTIGATION ON SHOCK CONDITION, CRITICAL DISEASES OR OTHER DISEASE CONDITIONS

BLOOD DETECTOR AS A CHECK OF A ELECTRICALSURGICAL UNIT

FINAL PROOF CAP TO WOULD BRING IN INTO A HUMAN OR ANIMAL BODY

SYSTEM AND MICRO CATHETER DEVICES FOR THE MEDICAL IMAGE REPRESENTATION OF THE CHEST

PROCEDURE FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF THE FABRIC STRUCTURE

MOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY PROCEDURE AND - MECHANISMS TO THE FABRIC DIAGNOSIS

USE OF ULTRAVIOLET, CLOSE-ULTRAVIOLET AND NAHINFRAROT RESONANZRMANSPEKTROSKOPIE ONES AND FLUORESENZSPEKTOSKOPIE FOR FABRIC INVESTIGATION ON SHOCK CONDITION, CRITICAL DISEASES OR OTHER DISEASE CONDITIONS

USE OF ULTRAVIOLET, CLOSE-ULTRAVIOLET AND NAHINFRAROT RESONANZRMANSPEKTROSKOPIE ONES AND FLUORESENZSPEKTOSKOPIE FOR FABRIC INVESTIGATION ON SHOCK CONDITION, CRITICAL DISEASES OR OTHER DISEASE CONDITIONS

USE OF ULTRAVIOLET, CLOSE-ULTRAVIOLET AND NAHINFRAROT RESONANZRMANSPEKTROSKOPIE ONES AND FLUORESENZSPEKTOSKOPIE FOR FABRIC INVESTIGATION ON SHOCK CONDITION, CRITICAL DISEASES OR OTHER DISEASE CONDITIONS

USE OF ULTRAVIOLET, CLOSE-ULTRAVIOLET AND NAHINFRAROT RESONANZRMANSPEKTROSKOPIE ONES AND FLUORESENZSPEKTOSKOPIE FOR FABRIC INVESTIGATION ON SHOCK CONDITION, CRITICAL DISEASES OR OTHER DISEASE CONDITIONS

USE OF ULTRAVIOLET, CLOSE-ULTRAVIOLET AND NAHINFRAROT RESONANZRMANSPEKTROSKOPIE ONES AND FLUORESENZSPEKTOSKOPIE FOR FABRIC INVESTIGATION ON SHOCK CONDITION, CRITICAL DISEASES OR OTHER DISEASE CONDITIONS

USE OF ULTRAVIOLET, CLOSE-ULTRAVIOLET AND NAHINFRAROT RESONANZRMANSPEKTROSKOPIE ONES AND FLUORESENZSPEKTOSKOPIE FOR FABRIC INVESTIGATION ON SHOCK CONDITION, CRITICAL DISEASES OR OTHER DISEASE CONDITIONS

USE OF ULTRAVIOLET, CLOSE-ULTRAVIOLET AND NAHINFRAROT RESONANZRMANSPEKTROSKOPIE ONES AND FLUORESENZSPEKTOSKOPIE FOR FABRIC INVESTIGATION ON SHOCK CONDITION, CRITICAL DISEASES OR OTHER DISEASE CONDITIONS

USE OF ULTRAVIOLET, CLOSE-ULTRAVIOLET AND NAHINFRAROT RESONANZRMANSPEKTROSKOPIE ONES AND FLUORESENZSPEKTOSKOPIE FOR FABRIC INVESTIGATION ON SHOCK CONDITION, CRITICAL DISEASES OR OTHER DISEASE CONDITIONS

USE OF ULTRAVIOLET, CLOSE-ULTRAVIOLET AND NAHINFRAROT RESONANZRMANSPEKTROSKOPIE ONES AND FLUORESENZSPEKTOSKOPIE FOR FABRIC INVESTIGATION ON SHOCK CONDITION, CRITICAL DISEASES OR OTHER DISEASE CONDITIONS

USE OF ULTRAVIOLET, CLOSE-ULTRAVIOLET AND NAHINFRAROT RESONANZRMANSPEKTROSKOPIE ONES AND FLUORESENZSPEKTOSKOPIE FOR FABRIC INVESTIGATION ON SHOCK CONDITION, CRITICAL DISEASES OR OTHER DISEASE CONDITIONS

Temperature measurement systems, method and devices

TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENT SYSTEMS, METHOD AND DEVICES A system for producing surface temperature estimations of a tissue surface, comprising: a first optical assembly constructed and arranged to receive infrared light emitted from multiple tissue surface areas; a fiber comprising a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the distal end is optically coupled to receive infrared light from the first optical assembly; and a sensor optically coupled to the fiber proximal end, wherein the sensor is constructed and arranged to produce a signal that correlates to an average temperature of each of the multiple tissue surface areas; further comprising a second optical assembly constructed and arranged to receive infrared light from the fiber and direct light onto a receiving surface of the sensor.

Assessment of tissue or lesion depth using temporally resolved light scattering spectroscopy

A method is described to enhance the ability to evaluate the depth of a tissue component or a lesion having optical properties different from a surrounding tissue using time resolved optical methods. This invention may be particularly suitable for the evaluation of lesion depth during RF ablation (irreversible tissue modification/damage) using specially designed devises (catheters) that deliver heat in a localized region for therapeutic reasons. The technique allows for increased ability to evaluate the depth of the ablated lesion or detect the presence of other processes such as micro-bubble formation and coagulation with higher sensitivity compared to that offered by steady state spectroscopy. The method can be used for in-vivo, real-time monitoring during tissue ablation or other procedures where information on the depth of a lesion or tissue is needed. Exemplary uses are found in tissue ablation, tissue thermal damage, lesion and tissue depth assessment in medical applications.

Method and apparatus using a medical imaging head for fluorescent imaging

The invention relates to a method for detecting visible and infrared light using a medical imaging system, said medical imaging system comprising a camera module configured to receive a visible light signal and at least one infrared light signal from an object image. The medical imaging system for detecting visible and comprises - an input for visible light for illuminating a tissue; - an input for excitation light for exciting a fluorescence agent in the tissue; - a camera module configured to receive a visible light signal and at least one infrared light signal from an object image in the tissue. The camera module comprises at least a first, second, and third optical path for directing light from the object image to a first, second, and third filter and sensor combination respectively. In any order, the first, second, and third filters are a green filter, an infrared filter, and a red/blue patterned filter comprising red and blue filters in alternating pattern. Half of the red/blue patterned ...

System and method for therapy and diagnosis comprising translatory distributor for distribution of radiation

Tissue vitality comparator with light pipe with fiber optic imaging bundle

Azulene dimer-quenched, near-infrared fluorescent probes

Systems and methods for tomographic imaging in diffuse media using a hybrid inversion technique

The invention relates to systems and methods for tomographic imaging in diffuse media employing a fast reconstruction technique. A hybrid Fourier approach is presented that enables the fast tomographic reconstruction of large datasets. In certain embodiments, the invention features methods of i ...

Thermometer for determining the temperature of an animal's ear drum and method of using the same

The present invention relates to a thermometer for determining the temperature of an animal's ear drum. The thermometer includes a probe, an infrared-radiation detector adapted to receive infrared radiation emitted by the ear drum, and devices that help determine the probe's position in the ear canal so as to optimize the infrared radiation received from the ear drum, and to minimize the infrared radiation received from other ear parts. A method of using the thermometer is also disclosed.

Method and system for optically detecting blood and controlling a generator during electrosurgery

Method and system for optically detecting blood and controlling a generator during electrosurgery

Imaging diseased tissue using autofluorescence

Medical imaging device and methods of use

Embodiments related to medical imaging devices including rigid imaging tips and their methods of use for identifying abnormal tissue within a surgical bed are disclosed.

Full-field three dimensional surface measurement

Embodiments of the present invention may be used to perform measurement of surfaces, such as external and internal surfaces of the human body, in full-field and in 3-D. An electromagnetic radiation source may be configured to project the electromagnetic radiation in a pattern corresponding to a spatial signal modulation algorithm. The electromagnetic radiation source may also be configured to project the electromagnetic radiation at a frequency suitable for transmission through the media in which the radiation is projected. An image sensor may be configured to capture image data representing the projected pattern. An image-processing module may be configured to receive the captured image data from the image sensor and to calculate a full-field, 3-D representation of the surface using the captured image data and the spatial signal modulation algorithm. A display device may be configured to display the full-field, 3-D representation of the surface.

Medical imaging device and methods of use

Embodiments related to medical imaging devices including rigid imaging tips and their methods of use for identifying abnormal tissue within a surgical bed are disclosed.

Ablation and temperature measurement devices

A temperature measurement probe for a patient is provided. The probe includes a sensor assembly and produces a temperature map comprising temperature information for multiple patient locations.

Temperature measurement systems, method and devices

A system that produces temperature estimations of a tissue surface comprises a base including a motion unit. A fiber assembly includes at least one fiber constructed and arranged to receive infrared energy from the tissue surface, the fiber assembly transmissive of infrared energy; the fiber assembly including a proximal end, a distal end and a body. An optical element redirects received infrared energy to the distal end of the fiber optic. A linkage is coupled between the base and the optical element, the fiber extending through the linkage, the linkage coupled to the motion unit at a proximal end and the optical element at a distal end, the motion unit constructed and arranged to rotate the linkage about the fiber assembly to thereby rotate the optical element at the distal end.

Apparatus and method for determining tissue characteristics

In-vivo tissue inspection and sampling

SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SENSORS FOR DETECTING TISSUE PROPERTIES, AND SYSTEMS USING SUCH INSTRUMENTS

A system is provided that furnishes expert procedural guidance based upon patient-specific data gained from surgical instruments incorporating sensors on the instrument's working surface, one or more reference sensors placed about the patient, sensors implanted before, during or after the procedure, the patient's personal medical history, and patient status monitoring equipment. Embodiments include a system having a surgical instrument with a sensor for generating a signal indicative of a property of a subject tissue of the patient, which signal is converted into a current dataset and stored. A processor compares the current dataset with other previously stored datasets, and uses the comparison to assess a physical condition of the subject tissue and/or to guide a procedure being performed on the tissue.

CATHETER FOR DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF DISEASED VESSELS

The application provides a catheter for detecting and treating diseased tissue in a blood vessel or other hollow body organ. The catheter comprises an elongated tubular catheter shaft having a distal end comprising a light transmission zone. A first fiber lumen in the catheter shaft contains a diagnostic optical fiber terminating within the light transmission zone for emitting and receiving light through the light transmission zone. A diagnostic subassembly at the proximal end and in communication with the diagnostic optical fiber processes diagnostic light for use in connection with a diagnostic method for detecting diseased tissue. A second fiber lumen can be provided in the catheter shaft for containing a treatment optical fiber for delivering treatment light from a light source. The treatment optical fiber has a distal end terminating within the light transmission zone for emitting light for treatment of the diseased tissue. An occlusion balloon is positioned on the distal end of the ...

CONTINUOUS OPTOACOUSTIC MONITORING OF HEMOGLOBIN CONCENTRATION AND HEMATOCRIT

An optoacoustic apparatus is disclosed which includes a radiation source of pulsed radiation and a probe having a front face to be placed in contact with a tissue site of an animal body. The probe further includes an optical fiber terminating at the surface of the front face of the probe and connected at their other end to a pulsed laser. The front face of the probe also has mounted therein or thereon a piezoelectric transducer for detecting an acoustic response to the radiation pulses connected to a processing unit which converts the transducer signal into a measure of hemoglobin concentration and/or hematocrit of blood.

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DIAGNOSING VESSEL OCCLUSION

Apparatus and methods for diagnosing conditions consistent with the presence of cranial blood vessel blockage and large vessel occlusions (LVO's) using the framework of a small head-harness that is transportable, field-expedient, and durable, A single pulse set using ultrasonic or near- infrared energy is broadcast into a patient's brain allowing the apparatus to perform an area scan of the brain and detect and decipher cranial blood vessel blockage and LVO signal patterns. The interpretation of the pattern lies within the internal programming which produces a binary signal as to whether an LVO is suspected or not.

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR IMAGING VASCULATURE

A device and method for imaging vasculature are provided. The device includes an imaging probe to be inserted into a vasculature. The imaging probe emits infrared light through blood toward the vasculature, and gathers reflected from the vasculature for imaging. The device includes an infrared light source optically coupled to the imaging probe to provide infrared light, and an infrared light detector optically to the imaging probe to generate an imaging signal from the reflected light that is gathered. The device further includes a controller coupled to the infrared light source and coupled to the infrared light detector to generate an image of the vasculature from the imaging signal. The controller may employ ballistic photon imaging techniques, gated imaging techniques, polarizing light imaging techniques, structured light imaging techniques, and the like.

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR EXTRACTING AND ANALYZING A BODILY FLUID

PROBE COVER WITH MATCHING FEATURE FOR A MEDICAL THERMOMETER

A probe cover for medical thermometer has a matching feature for preventing its use with an incompatible thermometer. A mechanical matching feature of the probe cover includes at least one of a fold, a step, or a series of holes or indentations that are respectively matched to a ridge, a valley or series of pins formed on the front end of a compatible thermometer. When applied to the compatible thermometer, the mechanical matching feature permits the probe cover to be fully seated on and retained by the probe, thereby placing the thermometer in condition for use. Alternatively, an opto-electronic matching feature of the probe cover includes a reflective layer for use with an opto-electronic detection circuit of a compatible thermometer. When applied to the compatible thermometer, the opto-electronic detection detects the reflective layer and places the compatible thermometer in an operational state for use.

FLEXIBLE DEBULKING CATHETERS WITH IMAGING AND METHODS OF USE AND MANUFACTURE

Catheters and methods for removing material from (or "debulking") a body lumen while imaging the region comprised of the material are provided. The catheters can be used in body lumens, including but not limited to intravascular lumens such as coronary or peripheral arteries. The catheters include housings or other structures to mount or protect an imaging transducer. Generally, debulking catheters include a proximal portion, a distal portion having an opening, a cutting element which may be exposed through the opening to contact material in a body lumen and an imaging transducer with associated circuitry and display. The catheter debulks a body lumen when it is moved while the cutting element is in contact with the material in the lumen and the region comprised of the material is imaged before, after, or during catheter movement.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TISSUE TYPE RECOGNITION

Method and Apparatus for Tissue Type Recognition A method and apparatus (21,150) is disclosed for identifying tissue which is suspected of being physiologically changed as a result of pre-cancerous or cancerous activity. The apparatus (21,150) includes a probe (1,10;151) configured to contact the tissue and which includes an arrangement (3-7,17-47;158-163) to subject the tissue to a plurality of different stimuli such as electrical, light, heat, sound, magnetic and to detect plural physical responses to the stimuli. The probe (1,10;151) connects to an analogue section (23;152) which buffers signals between the probe (1,10;151) and a processor (22;153). The processor (22;153) processes the responses in combination in order to categorise the tissue, and then compares the categorization with a catalogue of expected tissue to identify the tissue, the processing occurring in real-time with an indication of the tissue type (eg. normal, pre-cancerous/cancerous, or unknown) being provided to an ...

METHOD FOR MEASURING TISSUE MORPHOLOGY

An apparatus for measuring one or more physical characteristics of material by means of optical radiation scattered by a tissue layer to determine, for example, the size of nuclei in a tissue layer. The apparatus includes fiber optic devices (10, 20, 30) to deliver and collect light from a tissue region of interest to determine, for example, whether the tissue is normal or precancerous.

ELECTROMECHANICAL PILYuLEOBRAZNOE DEVICE WITH LOCALIZATION CAPABILITIES

Bleeding device for detecting, system and method

Short-wave infrared otoscope device, short-wave infrared otoscope system and detection method of ear fluid

OPTICAL SYSTEM Of ANALYSIS Of a LIVING TISSUE

Optical system for analysis of living tissue for detection of a specific pathology, whereby an assembly of optical analysis devices are used and a central control unit evaluates their results together to make a diagnosis

... - Système d'analyse optique d'un tissu vivant. - Le système (1) comporte un ensemble (E) de n dispositifs d'analyse optique, n étant supérieur ou égal à 3, dont chacun met en oeuvre une technique d'analyse particulière du tissu vivant (Tv) de manière à pouvoir émettre une information positive ou négative sur la présence d'une pathologie particulière, des moyens de sélection (2) actionnables, pour sélectionner un nombre p desdits n dispositifs, p étant supérieur à 1 et inférieur à n, des moyens de déclenchement (3) actionnables, pour déclencher chacun des p dispositifs qui ont été sélectionnés, et une unité centrale (4) qui, si au moins q desdits p dispositifs qui ont été sélectionnés et déclenchés, ont tous émis une information négative, q étant supérieur à 1 et inférieur ou égal à p, émet un diagnostic négatif sur la présence de ladite pathologie sur le tissu vivant (Tv).

In vivo/sampled biological material target imaging method, e.g. for diagnosing dysplasia, involves receiving part of emitted laser radiation, reinjecting radiation in laser cavity, and detecting perturbation conveyed to emitted radiation

L'invention concerne un procédé d'imagerie d'une cible comprenant une matière biologique au moyen d'un rayonnement laser, l'émission, la réception du rayonnement et le traitement du rayonnement reçu étant réalisé par la technologie dite « LOFI ». L'invention concerne aussi un dispositif pour la mise en oeuvre dudit procédé.

BIOMETRIC SENSOR FOR DETECTING BIOMETRIC PARAMETERS

IMAGING SYSTEM FOR COMBINED FULL-COLOR REFLECTANCE AND NEAR-INFRARED IMAGING

뇌출혈 혈종을 찾기위한 컬러 감지 방법과 장치

... 본 발명은 뇌조직에서 혈종을 찾는 장치에 관한 것이다. 이 장치는 컬러센서와 광원을 갖춘 기다란 탐침을 포함하고, 광원은 탐침의 말단부에 있다. 컬러센서는 컬러센서를 향해 반사된 빛의 특성에 해당하는 신호를 낸다. 감지된 컬러는 디스플레이에 표시된다.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ANALYSIS AND TREATMENT OF A BODY LUMEN

A catheter is provided for placement within a body lumen, the catheter including a flexible conduit that is elongated along a longitudinal axis, the flexible conduit having a proximal end and a distal end. The catheter further includes at least one delivery waveguide and at least one collection waveguide positioned along the flexible conduit, the at least one delivery waveguide and the at least one collection waveguide constructed and arranged to transmit radiation at a wavelength in a range of about 250 to 2500 nanometers. The catheter further includes a flexible, expandable first surface encircling surrounding a segment of the conduit, a transmission output of the at least one delivery waveguide and a transmission input of the at least one collection waveguide located within the flexible, expandable first surface, and the distal end of at least one of the at least one delivery waveguide and the at least one collection waveguide tethered to the flexible, expandable first surface radially ...

INTRAVASCULAR IMAGING DEVICE AND USES THEREOF

The invention is directed to a probe-type imaging device useful to visualize interior surfaces, e.g., the lumen of blood vessels. Specifically, the probe-type device is particularly useful for direct tissue imaging in the presence or absence of molecular imaging agents.

SYNCHRONIZATION OF ILLUMINATION SOURCE AND SENSOR FOR IMPROVED VISUALIZATION OF SUBCUTANEOUS STRUCTURES

System and method are described for synchronizing a pulsed source of the near infrared illumination used in visualizing subcutaneous structures with the background illumination normally extant in medical treatment settings that allow both enhanced image acquisition and use of higher power pulsed infrared illumination sources.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR INTRA LUMINAL THROMBUS DETECTION

A method for detecting a complete or partial obstruction in a vessel through an intervening fluid includes receiving spectroscopic responses at different locations of a vessel wall, e.g., a vein or artery, through an intervening fluid, preferably blood. Spectroscopic responses are generated by irradiating the vessel wall at different locations and detecting spectra at those locations. In preferred embodiments, the radiation used is in the near infrared (NIR) region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The thrombus is located by determining whether fluctuations, spatial and/or spectral, of the spectral responses are indicative of thrombus.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USING THREE DIMENSIONAL INFRARED IMAGING FOR LIBRARIES OF STANDARDIZED MEDICAL IMAGERY

Calibrated infrared and range imaging sensors are used to produce a true-metric three- dimensional (3D) surface model of any body region within the fields of view of both sensors. Curvilinear surface features in both modalities are caused by internal and external anatomical elements. They are extracted to form 3D Feature Maps that are projected onto the skin surface. Skeletonized Feature Maps define subpixel intersections that serve as anatomical landmarks to aggregate multiple images for models of larger regions of the body, and to transform images into precise standard poses. Features are classified by origin, location, and characteristics to produce annotations that are recorded with the images and feature maps in reference image libraries. The system provides an enabling technology for searchable medical image libraries.

LOW-PROFILE INTRALUMINAL LIGHT DELIVERY SYSTEM AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME

A light delivery system to provide light treatment to a patient includes an elongated catheter having a light emitter that transmits light towards a target site within a patient. The catheter is sized and configured to pass through anatomical body structures to reduce or eliminate trauma associated with the delivery procedure. A visualization system of the catheter can assist a user before, during, and/or after performing light therapy. The visualization system includes sensors that provide real-time imaging or feedback.

BODY PARAMETER DETECTING SENSOR AND METHOD FOR DETECTING BODY PARAMETERS

A method for detecting biometric parameters includes the steps of performing a bone graft procedure on a vertebra of a spine, providing a biometric sensor (1-9) at the vertebra (10,20), and measuring a biometric parameter at the vertebra with the sensor. The sensor is capable of measuring parameters in an adjacent surrounding including pressure, tension, shear, relative position, and vascular flow. Data relating to the biometric parameter is transmitted to an external source and the data are analyzed to evaluate a biometric condition of the vertebra. A set of the sensors can be placed on transverse processes (70) of the vertebra.

IMAGING AND ECCENTRIC ATHEROSCLEROTIC MATERIAL LASER REMODELING AND/OR ABLATION CATHETER

Devices, systems, and methods for treating atherosclerotic lesions and other disease states, particularly for treatment of vulnerable plaques, can incorporate optical coherence tomography or other imaging techniques which allow a structure and location of an eccentric plaque to be characterized. Remodeling and/or ablative laser energy can then be selectively and automatically directed to the appropriate plaque structures, often without imposing mechanical trauma to the entire circumference of the lumen wall.

IMAGING DISEASED TISSUE USING AUTOFLUORESCENCE

An apparatus for imaging body tissue utilizing autofluorescence includes an endoscope (30) having a distal end (32), proximal end (31) and a light processing unit (33) located at the proximal end (31). The light processing unit accepts light in a spectral region from a light source (40) and directs the light through the endoscope to the tissue (5) located at the distal end (32). The light excites autofluorescence in the tissue. Optics (35) located in the distal end (32) of the endoscope collect the excited autofluorescence in a spatially resolved manner and routes it to the light processing unit (33) which separates the emitted light from any reflected excitation light. A plurality of imaging detectors (45) receive the emitted light. Each imaging detector is responsive to light in a different spectral band. An apparatus for sampling tissue includes an endoscopic device (30) comprising a sampling device (220) capable of taking a plurality of tissue samples, deposited in separate captive ...

BLOOD DETECTOR FOR CONTROLLING ANESU AND METHOD THEREFOR

A method and electrosurgical system for optically detecting blood and controlling an electrosurgical generator are provided. An optical blood detection system is used for optically detecting blood and may be included as an integral part of the overall electrosurgical system's circuitry, or may be designed as a separate unit that connects to, and controls, an electrosurgical generator. The optical blood detection system may be embodied through a variety of analog, digital and/or optical circuit components or arrangements, including software running on computational and memory circuitry. The optical blood detection system controls the output mode and energy of the electrosurgical generator in accordance with the amount of blood detected.

ENDOSCOPE SYSTEM

An endoscope system includes an image pickup section that picks up, light included in return light generated according to radiation of excitation light, and reference light, the return light including the fluorescence, light in a first wavelength band, and light in a second wavelength band; an observation image generation section that generates an observation image using first through third image signals obtained by picking up the return light; and a control section that controls the observation image generation section such that the observation image is generated, by causing the first image signal to be assigned to a green component, and by causing one image signal having a relatively large signal value, between the second image signal and the third image signal, to be assigned to a red component and another image signal having a relatively small signal value to be assigned to a blue component and the green component. 1. An endoscope system comprising:an image pickup section configured to be able to separate, and pick up, light included in return light that is generated according to excitation light radiated for exciting a fluorescent pigment and for generating fluorescence, and reference light radiated for acquiring reflected light that is visible light in a different wavelength band from the fluorescence, the return light including the fluorescence, light in a first wavelength band that is the reflected light of the reference light, and light in a second wavelength band that is different from the light in the first wavelength band;an observation image generation section configured to generate an observation image using a first image signal that is obtained by picking up the fluorescence, a second image signal that is obtained by picking up the light in the first wavelength band, and a third image signal that is obtained by picking up the light in the second wavelength band, and to output the observation image to a display apparatus; anda control section ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MEASURING PRESENCE OF ORGANIC MATTER OR LIFE/DEATH OF LIVING MATTER

This invention relates to an apparatus and a method for measuring whether organic matter is present or whether or not organisms (cells or tissue) are alive using infrared absorption spectroscopic analysis. The measurement apparatus of the invention includes an infrared light source for radiating infrared rays on a sample, an infrared detection unit for detecting the infrared rays transmitted or reflected from the sample, and a determination unit for identifying an amide infrared absorption peak of the sample using the detected infrared rays and for determining whether organic matter is present or whether organisms are alive or not in the sample using the identified amide infrared absorption peak. In this invention, a reagent is not used, simple measurement is performed, quantification is feasible, and the presence or absence of cells or tissues and changes in the life and death can be consecutively measured for the same sample. 1. An apparatus for measuring whether organic matter is present or whether or not organisms are alive using infrared-ray absorption analysis , the apparatus comprising:an infrared light source for radiating infrared rays on a sample;an infrared detection unit for detecting the infrared rays transmitted through or reflected from the sample; anda determination unit for identifying an amide infrared absorption peak of the sample using the detected infrared rays and for determining whether the organic matter is present or whether the organisms are alive or not in the sample using the identified amide infrared absorption peak.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the amide infrared absorption peak is at least one of amide I claim 1 , amide II claim 1 , and amide III infrared absorption peaks of a protein.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the determination unit determines whether the organic matter is present in the sample depending on whether or not the amide infrared absorption peak is present.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ANALYSIS AND TREATMENT OF A BODY LUMEN

In a system and method for analyzing and treating a body lumen, a lumen-expanding balloon catheter with integrated one or more delivery waveguides and one or more collection waveguides is used to perform optical analysis of the tissues surrounding the lumen during expansion. The catheter can comprise an angioplasty catheter with integrated delivery waveguides and collection waveguides to perform spectroscopy of a stenotic plaque during angioplasty.

Projection of subsurface structure onto an object's surface

An imaging system illuminates an object with infrared light to enhance visibility of buried structure beneath the surface of the object, and projects a visible light image of the buried structure onto the surface of the object. The system may include an infrared light source for generating the infrared light and a structure for diffusing the infrared light. The diffusing structure may include one or more layers of diffusing material for diffusing the light. The system further includes a video imaging device for receiving the infrared light reflected from the object and for generating a video image of the buried structure based on the reflected infrared light. The buried structure may be a subcutaneous blood vessel. A calibration procedure is described as well as embodiments for ensuring that the object is maintained in focus at the correct distance.

MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY WITH REDUCED CROSS SECTION

A surgical instrument extends through a guide tube and exits at an intermediate position of the guide tube. The instrument includes a parallel motion mechanism that changes the position of a distal end of the surgical instrument without changing the orientation of the distal end. An image capture component is at the distal end of the guide tube, and a joint allows the image capture component to move while the intermediate position remains stationary. The configuration allows a cross section of the guide tube to be oblong. In some aspects, a joint for the image capture component is placed between exit ports for surgical instruments, which allows the guide tube cross section to be further reduced.

Noninvasive system for characterizing tissue in vivo

A tool for nondestructive interrogation of the tissue including a light source emitter and detector which may be mounted directly on the surgical tool in a tissue contacting surface for interrogation or mounted remotely and guided to the surgical field with fiber optic cables. The light source may be broadband and wavelength differentiation can be accomplished at the detector via filters or gratings, or using time, frequency, or space resolved methods. Alternatively, n discrete monochromatic light sources may be provided which are subsequently multiplexed into a single detector by time or by frequency multiplexing. The optical sensing elements can be built into a surgical tool end effector tip such as a tissue grasping tool which has cooperating jaws (bivalve or multi-element). In the preferred embodiment the light source (or the fiber optic guide) is mounted on one jaw and the detector (or fiber optic guide) is mounted in the opposing jaw so that the light emitter and detector are facing ...

Transillumination catheter and system

A method of identifying vasculature comprising the steps of introducing an indicator in a peripheral vessel, and advancing a portion of the indicator into an internal vessel to identify said vessel. A catheter for identifying vasculature is also disclosed. The catheter is adapted to be introduced into a peripheral vessel and a portion thereof advanced into an internal vessel. The catheter comprises a light delivery portion at a distal end thereof and an expandable member located proximal to the light delivery portion.

Method for measuring tissue morphology

The present invention relates to systems and methods for measuring one or more physical characteristics of material such as tissue using optical radiation. The system can use light that is scattered by a tissue layer to determine, for example, the size of nuclei in the tissue layer to aid in the characterization of the tissue. These methods can include the use of fiber optic devices to deliver and collect light from a tissue region of interest to diagnose, for example, whether the tissue is normal or precancerous.

Spectroscopic method and apparatus for optically detecting abnormal mammalian epithelial tissue

A method and apparatus for detecting tissue abnormality, particularly precancerous cervical tissue, through fluorescence or Raman spectroscopy, or a combination of fluorescence and Raman spectroscopy. In vivo fluorescence measurements were followed by in vitro NIR Raman measurements on human cervical biopsies. Fluorescence spectra collected at 337, 380 and 460 nm excitation were used to develop a diagnostic method to differentiate between normal and dysplastic tissues. Using a fluorescence diagnostic method, a sensitivity and specificity of 80% and 67% were observed for differentiating squamous intraepithelial lesions (SILs) from all other tissues. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, using Raman scattering peaks observed at selected wavenumbers, SILs were separated from other tissues with a sensitivity and specificity of 88% and 100%. In addition, inflammation and metaplasia samples are correctly separated from the SILs.

Optical Feedback RF Ablator and Ablator Tip

An ablation catheter comprises an elongated catheter body; at least one ablation element disposed in a distal portion which is adjacent the distal end of the catheter body; an illumination optical element disposed in the distal portion, the illumination optical element being light-transmissive to emit light from the illumination optical element to the targeted tissue region; and a collection optical element disposed in the distal portion, the collection optical element being light-transmissive to collect one or more of returned, backscattered or newly excited light from the targeted tissue region. The illumination or excitation optical element and the collection optical element are axially spaced from one another and axially optically isolated from one another within the distal portion to substantially prevent light from traveling between the illumination optical element and the collection optical element along a path within the distal portion.

Method and system for spectral examination of vascular walls through blood during cardiac motion

A method for improving the treatment and/or examination of vessel walls through fluid, such as blood, functions by identifying the points in time when the catheter is closest to the vessel wall or farthest from the vessel wall. Identification of this relative location enables improved spectral readings in larger vessels. In short, instead of trying to overcome motion (e.g., by centering the catheter), this approach takes advantage of motion by identify times when the catheter is closer to the vessel wall, in order to gather more useful spectral information or improve the efficacy of the treatment of the vessel walls. In the specific example, the invention is used for near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. In some embodiments, the catheter head is designed to induce relative movement between the head and the vessel walls.

Surgical microscope system and method

A microscopy system and method allow observing a fluorescent substance accumulated in a tissue. The tissue can be observed at a same time both with visible light and with fluorescent light. It is possible to observe a series of previously recorded fluorescent light images in superposition with the visible light images. An end of the series of images may be automatically determined. A thermal protective filter may be inserted into a beam path of an illuminating system at such automatically determined end of the series. Further, the fluorescent light image may be analyzed for identifying a coherent fluorescent portion thereof. A representation of a periphery line of the coherent portion may be generated, and depths profile data may be obtained only from the coherent portion. An illuminating light beam for exciting the fluorescence may be modulated for improving a contrast of fluorescent images.

Tissue Retractor Oximeter

A retractor has an oximeter sensor at its tip, which allows measuring of oxygen saturation of a tissue being retracted by the retractor. The tip includes one or more openings for at least one source and detector. A specific implementation is a spinal nerve root retractor with an oximeter sensor.

SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR ILLUMINATING MATERIALS

A system including a medical instrument, a sensor, and a processor module in communication with the sensor. The medical instrument includes a radiation source for transmitting electromagnetic radiation from within a body and through a material in the body. The sensor receives a portion of the electromagnetic radiation transmitted through the material, and the processor module determines at least one characteristic of the material based on the electromagnetic radiation received by the sensor.

Full-field three-dimensional surface measurement

Embodiments of the present invention may be used to perform measurement of surfaces, such as external and internal surfaces of the human body, in full-field and in 3-D. Embodiments of the present invention may include an electromagnetic radiation source, which may be configured to project electromagnetic radiation onto a surface. The electromagnetic radiation source may be configured to project the electromagnetic radiation in a pattern corresponding to a spatial signal modulation algorithm. The electromagnetic radiation source may also be configured to project the electromagnetic radiation at a frequency suitable for transmission through the media in which the radiation is projected. An image sensor may be configured to capture image data representing the projected pattern. An image-processing module may be configured to receive the captured image data from the image sensor and to calculate a full-field, 3-D representation of the surface using the captured image data and the spatial signal ...

Guide tube control of minimally invasive surgical instrument

A telemanipulatively controlled guide tube acts as a wrist mechanism for a surgical instrument that extends through the guide tube. The instrument may be removed and replaced with another instrument. In some aspects the instruments are commercial, off the shelf minimally invasive surgical instruments.

Medical apparatus and endoscope apparatus

A medical apparatus includes an insertion unit and a light source which supplies light into the insertion unit. A surface of the insertion unit includes: a first and second irradiation portions, a second irradiation portions, and an observation window. wherein each of the first and second irradiation portions has a pair of irradiation windows which emits the light, wherein when a border line bisects a front end surface of the insertion unit through the center point of the observation window, the pair of the irradiation windows are disposed on the both side of the front end surface sandwiching the border line, and wherein a fluorescent body emitting light by the excitation of the light supplied from the light source unit is disposed behind each of optical paths, and the white light is formed by the light supplied to the first irradiation portions and emission in the fluorescent body.

IMPLANTABLE OPTICAL SENSOR AND METHOD FOR USE

AUTOFLUORESCENT IMAGING AND TARGET ABLATION

BLOOD DETECTOR FOR CONTROLLING AN ESU

ОЦЕНКА ВИДОИЗМЕНЕНИЯ ТКАНИ С ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИЕМ ОПТОВОЛОКОННОГО УСТРОЙСТВА

Изобретение относится к медицине, а именно к спектроскопическому способу определения в реальном времени скорости абляции в сердечной ткани in-vivo. Для этого направляют зондирующее излучение с длинами волн ближневолнового инфракрасного диапазона (NIR) на сердечную ткань in-vivo так, что зондирующее излучение взаимодействует с сердечной тканью для формирования спектра обратного рассеянного излучения. Спектр содержит зависимость интенсивности от длины волны по упомянутому диапазону длин волн. Далее направляют излучение абляции на сердечную ткань. При этом измеряют наклон упомянутого спектра. Причем этап направления излучения абляции выполняют одновременно с этапом измерения наклона. Скорость абляции ткани определяют, исходя из упомянутого наклона. Использование изобретения позволит расширить арсенал технических средств, позволяющих в реальном времени определять скорость абляции спектроскопическим способом. 19 з.п. ф-лы, 5 ил.

СИСТЕМА, СПОСОБ, МАШИНОЧИТАЕМЫЙ НОСИТЕЛЬ И ИХ ПРИМЕНЕНИЕ ДЛЯ ВИЗУАЛИЗАЦИИ ТКАНИ В АНАТОМИЧЕСКОЙ СТРУКТУРЕ

Изобретение относится к области медицинской визуализации. Система для визуализации рака предстательной железы состоит из источника электромагнитного излучения и детектирующего блока, формирующих множество траекторий электромагнитного излучения. Источник электромагнитного излучения содержится в уретральном блоке, расположенном поблизости от предстательной железы. Детектирующий блок содержится в трансректальном блоке, также расположенном поблизости от предстательной железы. В системе имеется блок реконструкции изображений диффузионной оптической томографии и блок распознавания для распознавания здоровой и пораженной ткани на основании информации, содержащейся в указанном наборе данных изображений. Способ визуализации осуществляется с использованием системы. Машиночитаемый носитель системы содержит сегменты кода, упорядоченные для осуществления всех этапов способа. Система применяется для локализации и диагностирования поражения ткани в анатомической структуре in vivo или для контроля направления ...

СПОСОБ НАБЛЮДЕНИЯ ЖИРОВОЙ ТКАНИ

Группа изобретений относится к медицине, а именно к хирургии, и касается визуализации кровеносного сосуда в жировой ткани во время операции на этапе удаления этой ткани. Для этого предложены варианты способа исследования жировой ткани. При осуществлении первого варианта способа на жировую ткань наносят оптический просветляющий агент и нагревают жировую ткань. При осуществлении второго варианта способа на жировую ткань наносят нагретый оптический просветляющий агент. Выполняют наблюдение внутри жировой ткани, в которую проник оптический просветляющий агент. При этом заданная целевая температура нагрева является температурой, при которой коэффициент преломления жировой ткани становится близок к коэффициенту преломления оптического просветляющего агента. Изобретения обеспечивают существенное улучшение видимости кровеносного сосуда, проходящего внутри или под жировой тканью, за счёт создания условий для низкого светорассеяния света жировой тканью и улучшения проникновения просветвляющего агента ...

ИНФРАКРАСНЫЙ СЕНСОР ДЛЯ АППАРАТНО-ПРОГРАММНОГО КОМПЛЕКСА ИНФРАКРАСНОЙ ДИАФАНОСКОПИИ ТКАНЕЙ РОТОВОЙ ПОЛОСТИ

Изобретение относится к медицинскому приборостроению, а точнее к аппаратно-программным комплексам визуализации структуры биологических тканей и органов методом инфракрасной диафаноскопии. Инфракрасный сенсор для аппаратно-программного комплекса инфракрасной диафаноскопии тканей ротовой полости содержит установленные в корпусе инфракрасного сенсора источник излучения в виде лазерного диода, выполненный с возможностью подключения и регулировки мощности излучения к блоку питания лазерного диода, микрокомпьютеры, выполненные с возможностью связи с персональным компьютером и подключенные к двум видеокамерам, противоположно установленным на боковых ребрах П-образной головки наконечника, съемно установленного на корпусе инфракрасного сенсора, при этом напротив каждой видеокамеры установлена оптическая призма, оптические призмы связаны через оптоволоконные элементы и переключатель направления освещения, установленный в корпусе инфракрасного сенсора с источником излучения, съемный наконечник выполнен ...

СИСТЕМА ВИЗУАЛИЗАЦИИ ДЛЯ ПОЛУЧЕНИЯ КОМБИНИРОВАННОГО ИЗОБРАЖЕНИЯ ИЗ ПОЛНОЦВЕТНОГО ИЗОБРАЖЕНИЯ В ОТРАЖЕННОМ СВЕТЕ И ИЗОБРАЖЕНИЕ В БЛИЖНЕЙ ИНФРАКРАСНОЙ ОБЛАСТИ

... 1. Способ получения изображения в ближней инфракрасной (ИК) области спектра и полноцветного изображения, содержащий этапы, на которых: !непрерывно освещают наблюдаемую область синим/зеленым светом, ! освещают наблюдаемую область красным светом и светом ближней ИК-области спектра, при этом красный свет и/или свет ближней ИК-области спектра периодически включают и выключают, ! направляют отраженный синий и зеленый свет, а также суммарный отраженный красный свет/принятый свет ближней ИК-области спектра на один или более формирователей сигналов изображения, выполненных с возможностью раздельного измерения отраженного синего света, отраженного зеленого света и отраженного красного света/принятого света ближней ИК-области спектра, при этом измеряют отраженный красный свет/принятый свет ближней ИК-области спектра синхронно с переключением красного света и света ближней ИК-области спектра, ! определяют по отдельности спектральную составляющую отраженного красного света и спектральную составляющую ...

ОЦЕНКА ВИДОИЗМЕНЕНИЯ ТКАНИ С ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИЕМ ОПТОВОЛОКОННОГО УСТРОЙСТВА

... 1. Спектральный способ исследования биологической ткани в реальном времени, содержащий этапы, на которых ! размещают диагностический инструмент и/или лечебный инструмент на заранее определенном участке ткани, в нем или вблизи него, причем упомянутый участок ткани содержит, по меньшей мере, один из следующих видов ткани: измененную ткань, ткань, подвергнутую ранее лечению, и ткань, подвергаемую видоизменению; ! обеспечивают один или более заранее определенных оптических каналов, выполненных с возможностью направления источника зондирующего излучения на упомянутый заранее определенный участок ткани, и один или более заранее определенных оптических каналов, выполненных с возможностью приема индуцированного заранее определенного обратного рассеянного излучения от упомянутого заранее определенного участка ткани, являющегося результатом упомянутого направленного излучения, используемого для исследования; и ! измеряют один или более спектров упругого рассеянного света, являющихся результатом упомянутого ...

Methods and apparatus for assesment and treatment of body cavities

Methods and apparatus for detection, assessment and optionally treatment of the cancerous tissue in the natural and manmade body cavities. An expandable cavity assessment device that is coupled with cancer detecting elements is placed in a cavity in close proximity to the site of cancerous tissue. The cavity assessment device may receive an optical fiber, or other type of energy conduit and potentially a radioactive source for interstitial radiation therapy. The cavity assessment device may be equipped with a balloon member coupled with electro conductive elements. Further, a system facilitating substance communication with the internal surface of the cavity is provided.

Systems and methods for analysis and treatment of a body lumen

A catheter for placement within a body lumen, the catheter including a flexible conduit that is elongated along a longitudinal axis, the flexible conduit having a proximal end and a distal end, at least one delivery waveguide and at least one collection waveguide extending along the flexible conduit, a lumen-expanding inflatable balloon disposed about a portion of the conduit, a transmission output of the at least one delivery waveguide and a transmission input of the at least one collection waveguide located within the balloon; and, at least one elongate arm connected to the conduit and positioned within the balloon, the at least one elongate arm radially translatable with respect to the conduit, and wherein at least one of the transmission output and transmission input is coupled to the elongate arm.

Bodily fluid composition analyzer with disposable cassette

Disclosed is an apparatus for analyzing the composition of bodily fluid. The apparatus can include a fluid handling network including a patient end configured to maintain fluid communication with a bodily fluid in a patient and a pump unit in operative engagement with the fluid handling network. The pump unit can have an infusion mode, in which the pump unit is operable to deliver infusion fluid to the patient through the patient end, and a sample draw mode, in which the pump unit is operable to draw a sample of the bodily fluid from the patient through the patient end. The apparatus can include a spectroscopic analyzer positioned to analyze at least a portion of the sample; a processor in communication with or incorporated into the spectroscopic analyzer; and stored program instructions executable by the processor to obtain measurements of two or more properties of the sample.

Apparatus and method for treating obstructive sleep apnea

The present invention describes an apparatus, a system and a method for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. The treatment involves monitoring the position of the tongue and/or the force exerted by the tongue and electrical stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve to move the tongue into an anterior position or to maintain the tongue in an anterior position.

Detection of lipid core plaque cap thickness

Described are methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer program products for examining a blood vessel wall. The blood vessel wall is illuminated with near-infrared light. Reflected near-infrared light from the blood vessel wall is received. A reflectance spectrum based on the reflected near-infrared light from the blood vessel wall is determined. Whether the reflectance spectrum is indicative of a presence of a lipid core plaque (LCP) by applying an LCP classifier to the reflectance spectrum is determined. A thickness of an LCP cap is determined by applying an LCP cap thickness classifier to the reflectance spectrum if the reflectance spectrum is indicative of the presence of the LCP. Indicia of the thickness of the LCP cap are displayed.

Chalcogenide-fibre, infrared evanescent wave sensor and process for producing same

The invention relates to a fibre sensor that enables the propagation of infrared light at at least one wavelength of 0.8 to 25 micrometres, the fibre successively comprising along its length a first infrared waveguide section ( 23 ), a second detection section ( 25 ) intended to come into contact with an external environment in order to detect infrared signatures interfering with the propagation of the evanescent waves propagating along the fibre ( 2 ), and a third infrared waveguide section ( 27 ). The invention is characterized in that, in the second fibre section ( 25 ) that has the detection role, the fibre ( 2 ) is constituted of a curved part, the radios of curvature of which is locally less than 2.3 millimetres.

Multimodal detection of tissue abnormalities based on raman and background fluorescence spectroscopy

Methods and apparatus for classifying tissue use features of Raman spectra and background fluorescent spectra. The spectra may be acquired in the near-infrared wavelengths. Principal component analysis and linear discriminant analysis of reference spectra may be used to obtain a classification function that accepts features of the Raman and background fluorescence spectra for test tissue and yields an indication as to the likelihood that the test tissue is abnormal. The methods and apparatus may be applied to screening for skin cancers or other diseases.

SURGICAL INSTRUMENT CONTROL AND ACTUATION

Two or more telemanipulated surgical instruments are inserted through a guide tube. Each instrument has a transmission mechanism that transmits actuating forces from actuators to components of the instrument. The transmission mechanisms are arranged around an extended centerline of the guide tube and are wedge-shaped so that they can be positioned more closely to the extended centerline. 118.-. (canceled)19. A method comprising:sensing, by a control system, if either a surgical instrument or an imaging system is mounted on a telemanipulation actuator assembly, wherein the surgical instrument and the imaging system are interchangeably mountable on the telemanipulation actuator assembly;manipulating, by the control system, the surgical instrument with the telemanipulation actuator assembly in an instrument control mode if the sensing indicates that the surgical instrument is mounted on the telemanipulation actuator assembly; andmanipulating, by the control system, the imaging system with the telemanipulation actuator assembly in a camera control mode if the sensing indicates that the imaging system is mounted on the telemanipulation actuator assembly.20. A method comprising:manipulating a surgical instrument with a telemanipulation actuator assembly in a telemanipulation control system instrument control mode if the surgical instrument is sensed as being mounted on the telemanipulation actuator assembly; andmanipulating an imaging system with the telemanipulation actuator assembly in a telemanipulation control system camera control mode if the imaging system is sensed as being mounted on the telemanipulation actuator assembly;wherein the surgical instrument and the imaging system are each configured to be interchangeably mounted on the telemanipulation actuator assembly.21. A method of :wherein manipulating the surgical instrument comprises changing an orientation of an end effector of the surgical instrument without changing a position of the end effector of the ...

METHODS AND DEVICES FOR GASTROINTESTINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES USING NEAR INFRARED (nIR) IMAGING TECHNIQUES

Described herein are methods and devices for performing gastrointestinal surgical procedures using near infrared (nIR) imaging techniques. Described herein are imaging systems, endoscopes, and methods making use of near infrared (nIR) imaging techniques. The imaging systems, endoscopes, and methods can be used, for example, in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for visualization of the intraduodenal portion of the bile duct, and in procedures to visualize and to direct treatment of bleeding ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, and tumors, for example, a pancreatic mass. 1. An imaging system for an endoscope comprising:a light source capable of emitting near-infrared (nIR) light;an objective lens;an optical filter;an imaging sensor; andan image display unit.2. The imaging system of wherein the light source is capable of emitting nIR light having a wavelength of 800 nm.3. The imaging system of wherein the optical filter is a band-pass filter centered at 830 nm or a long-pass filter excluding light below 810 to 820 nm.4. The imaging system of wherein the light source is further capable of emitting visible light.5. The imaging system of wherein the imaging sensor is a camera.6. The imaging system of wherein the camera is a solid state nIR sensitive camera.7. The imaging system of wherein the image display unit is a monitor.8. The imaging system of wherein said endoscope is adapted for use in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).9. The imaging system of wherein said endoscope is adapted for use in esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD).10. An endoscope comprising:a distal portion for insertion into a patient;a proximal portion which is external to the patient; andan imaging system having a light source capable of emitting near-infrared (nIR) light; an objective lens; an optical filter; and an imaging sensor.11. The endoscope of wherein the light source and objective lens are positioned at a distal end of the endoscope.12. The endoscope of ...

MEDICAL TOOL THAT EMITS NEAR INFRARED FLUORESCENCE AND MEDICAL TOOL POSITION-CONFIRMING SYSTEM

A medical tool position-confirming system is provided with a medical tool capable of emitting light, the medical tool including a luminescent agent emitting near infrared fluorescence when irradiated with near infrared light having a wavelength within the range of 600 to 1400 nm, the luminescent agent being applied on a surface of the medical tool or kneaded into the medical tool, a light source for directing the near infrared light toward the medical tool a camera for receiving the near infrared fluorescence emitted from the luminescent agent of the medical tool and a monitor for displaying an image taken by the camera The position of the medical tool such as a shunt tube can be confirmed without using an X-ray. 1. A medical tool that emits near infrared fluorescence , the medical tool comprising a luminescent agent emitting near infrared fluorescence when irradiated with near infrared light having a wavelength within the range of 600 to 1400 nm , the luminescent agent being applied on a surface of the medical tool or kneaded into the medical tool.2. The medical tool that emits near infrared fluorescence according to claim 1 , wherein a main body of the medical tool is a shunt tube claim 1 , and the luminescent agent is applied on an entire surface of the main body or kneaded into the entire main body.3. A medical tool position-confirming system comprising:a medical tool capable of emitting light, the medical tool including a luminescent agent emitting near infrared fluorescence when irradiated with near infrared light having a wavelength within the range of 600 to 1400 nm, the luminescent agent being applied on a surface of the medical tool or kneaded into the medical tool;a light source for directing the near infrared light toward the medical tool;a camera for receiving the near infrared fluorescence emitted from the luminescent agent of the medical tool; anda monitor for displaying an image taken by the camera.4. The medical tool position-confirming system ...

SCANNING MECHANISMS FOR IMAGING PROBE

The present invention provides scanning mechanisms for imaging probes using for imaging mammalian tissues and structures using high resolution imaging, including high frequency ultrasound and/or optical coherence tomography. The imaging probes include adjustable rotational drive mechanism for imparting rotational motion to an imaging assembly containing either optical or ultrasound transducers which emit energy into the surrounding area. The imaging assembly includes a scanning mechanism having including a movable member configured to deliver the energy beam along a path out of said elongate hollow shaft at a variable angle with respect to said longitudinal axis to give forward and side viewing capability of the imaging assembly. The movable member is mounted in such a way that the variable angle is a function of the angular velocity of the imaging assembly. 1. An imaging probe comprising:a hollow shaft;an imaging conduit at least partially residing within said hollow shaft;an imaging assembly mechanically coupled to said imaging conduit at a location remote from a proximal portion of said imaging conduit, said imaging conduit being configured to deliver energy to said imaging assembly, said imaging assembly including a tiltable member for delivering an energy beam along an energy beam path from said tiltable member out of said hollow shaft at a variable imaging angle with respect a longitudinal axis of said hollow shaft;an imaging angle encoder coupled to said imaging assembly, wherein said imaging angle encoder is configured to produce a signal representative of the tilt angle of said tiltable member; anda signal delivery channel coupled to said imaging angle encoder and extending through said hollow shaft for delivering the signal representative of the tilt angle to a proximal portion of said hollow shaft.2. The imaging probe according to wherein said imaging angle encoder is configured to direct an incident energy beam onto a surface associated with said ...

INFRARED ENDOSCOPIC BALLOON PROBES

Balloon probes, adapted for use in endoscopy and other medical procedures, are useful to obtain spectroscopic information reflected or emitted from a tissue of interest in the infrared spectral region. The information collected by the probe is useful in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. The invention also relates to methods utilizing these probes to analyze a surface of interest, in a minimally invasive manner, in connection with the diagnosis and treatment of disease. 175to . (canceled)76. A probe device , comprising: i.) a proximal end;', 'ii.) a distal collection end opposite said proximal end of the collection fiber, the distal collection end adapted to collect radiation; and', 'iii.) a conductive core located between said proximal end of the collection fiber and said distal collection end;, 'a.) a collection fiber, said collection fiber comprisingb.) a sheath; andc.) an anchoring balloon disposed along said sheath;wherein said collection fiber is in apposition with an exterior surface of the anchoring balloon, without extending into the anchoring balloon, such that the distal collection end of said collection fiber extends away from the anchoring balloon.77. The probe device of claim 76 , wherein said conductive core comprises a bend proximate to said distal collection end.78. The probe device of claim 76 , wherein the conductive core comprises a reflector that is configured to redirect light from the distal collection end to the proximal end of the collection fiber.79. The probe device of claim 76 , further comprising a spectrometer optically coupled to the proximal end of said collection fiber and a detector optically coupled to said spectrometer.80. The probe device of claim 79 , wherein the detector comprises a detector array.81. The probe device of claim 79 , further comprising a diagnostic processor having an image acquisition interface responsive to said detector.82. The probe device of claim 76 , further comprising an illumination fiber claim 76 , ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ANALYSIS AND TREATMENT OF A BODY LUMEN

A system is provided for probing a body lumen that includes a flexible conduit that is elongated along a longitudinal axis, the flexible conduit having a proximal end and a distal end, at least one delivery waveguide and at least one collection waveguide extending along the flexible conduit, a transmission output of the at least one delivery waveguide and a transmission input of the at least one collection waveguide located along a distal portion of the conduit. A spectrometer is connected to the at least one delivery waveguide and the at least one collection waveguide, the spectrometer configured to perform spectroscopy. A controller system is configured to calculate a distance between the flexible conduit and the wall of the body lumen based on a spectroscopic measurement of the at least one primary radiation signal that traveled between the flexible conduit and body lumen. 1. A system for analyzing a body lumen comprising:a catheter comprising a flexible conduit that is elongated along a longitudinal axis, the flexible conduit having a proximal end and a distal end;at least one delivery waveguide and at least one collection waveguide extending along the flexible conduit, a transmission output of the at least one delivery waveguide and a transmission input of the at least one collection waveguide located along a distal portion of the conduit;a spectrometer connected to the at least one delivery waveguide and the at least one collection waveguide, the spectrometer configured to perform diffuse reflectance spectroscopy through blood, wherein the spectrometer emits at least one primary radiation signal of a wavelength of between about 750 and 2500 nm that is directed through the transmission output to a wall of the body lumen, and wherein the transmission input collects radiation directed from the body lumen wall; anda controller system comprising computer-readable memory programmed to store the signal measured by the spectrometer and to enable the controller to ...

Fluid handling cassette

A fluid handling module that is removably engageable with a bodily fluid analyzer is provided. The module may comprise a fluid handling element, and a fluid component separator that is accessible via the fluid handling element and configured to separate at least one component of a bodily fluid transported to the fluid component separator. The fluid handling element may have at least one control element interface.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ANALYSIS AND TREATMENT OF A BODY LUMEN

A system for analyzing a body lumen including a flexible conduit that is elongated along a longitudinal axis, the flexible conduit having a proximal end and a distal end; at least one delivery waveguide and at least one collection waveguide extending along the flexible conduit, a transmission output of the at least one delivery waveguide and a transmission input of the at least one collection waveguide located along a distal portion of the conduit; a spectrometer connected to the at least one delivery waveguide and the at least one collection waveguide, the spectrometer configured to perform diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, wherein the spectrometer emits at least one primary radiation signal of a wavelength having an absorption coefficient of between about 8 cmand about 10 cmwhen transmitted through a highly aqueous media; a controller system configured to calculate at least one of an extent, area, and volume of highly aqueous media based on the amount of absorption of the at least one primary radiation signal measured through the highly aqueous media by the spectrometer. 1a flexible conduit that is elongated along a longitudinal axis, the flexible conduit having a proximal end and a distal end;at least one delivery waveguide and at least one collection waveguide extending along the flexible conduit, a transmission output of the at least one delivery waveguide and a transmission input of the at least one collection waveguide located along a distal portion of the conduit;{'sup': −1', '−1, 'a spectrometer connected to the at least one delivery waveguide and the at least one collection waveguide, the spectrometer configured to perform diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, wherein the spectrometer emits at least one primary radiation signal of a wavelength having an absorption coefficient of between about 8 cmand about 10 cmwhen transmitted through a highly aqueous media; and'}a controller system configured to calculate at least one of an extent, area, and volume of highly ...

FOCUSING ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION WITHIN A TURBID MEDIUM USING ULTRASONIC MODULATION

The present disclosure provides various systems and methods for focusing electromagnetic radiation (EMR) within a diffusion medium, such as a turbid medium. A diffusion medium is irradiated with EMR. The EMR may be modulated by an acoustical wave focused on a focus volume within the diffusion medium. The EMR may be modulated by a beat frequency or other function of multiple focused acoustical waves. The EMR may be modulated at a harmonic of a fundamental frequency of one or more acoustical waves. A filter may filter the emerging EMR to remove all but specifically modulated EMR scattered from the focus volume. The modulated EMR may be focused and/or used for various purposes, including imaging. In some embodiments, the modulated EMR may be reflected and/or amplified by a phase conjugating mirror. Furthermore, in some embodiments, acoustical phase conjugation may be used to focus an acoustical wave on a focus volume. 1. A method for focusing electromagnetic radiation using phase conjugation of harmonically modulated electromagnetic radiation , comprising:{'sub': 'a', 'vibrating a focus volume within a diffusion medium at an acoustical frequency, f, using a focused acoustical wave;'}{'sub': 'r', 'irradiating the diffusion medium with electromagnetic radiation at a radiation frequency, f;'}{'sub': r', 'a, 'receiving diffused electromagnetic radiation scattered from the diffusion medium, including harmonically modulated electromagnetic radiation from the focus volume at a modulated frequency, fshifted by a harmonic of the acoustical frequency, Nf, where N is an integer greater than 1;'}{'sub': r', 'a, 'filtering the received diffused electromagnetic radiation to remove electromagnetic radiation at the radiation frequency, f, and at modulated frequencies shifted by the first harmonic of the acoustical frequency, 1f; and'}transmitting phase conjugated electromagnetic radiation of the filtered harmonically modulated electromagnetic radiation, such that the phase conjugated ...

CATHETER INSERTION SUPPORTING SYSTEM, CATHETER INSERTION SUPPORTING METHOD, COMPUTER READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM STORED WITH PROGRAM FOR CATHETER INSERTION SUPPORTING SYSTEM, AND CALIBRATION METHOD

There is provided a catheter insertion supporting system including an extraction section configured to extract a contour shape of at least one of organs of a subject represented on a two-dimensional image picked up by an image pickup element of a catheter inserted in the body of the subject; a detection section configured to detect, in a three-dimensional CT image of the subject, a cross section which includes a contour shape which at least partly coincides with the contour shape extracted by the extraction section; and a display section configured to display a portion of the three-dimensional CT image which includes an organ having the cross section detected by the detection section together with the two-dimensional image. 1. A catheter insertion supporting system , comprising:an extraction section configured to extract a contour shape of at least one of organs of a subject represented on a two-dimensional image picked up by an image pickup element of a catheter inserted in the body of the subject;a detection section configured to detect, in a three-dimensional computed tomography image of the subject, a cross section which includes a contour shape which at least partly coincides with the contour shape extracted by the extraction section; anda display section configured to display a portion of the three-dimensional computed tomography image which includes an organ having the cross section detected by the detection section together with the two-dimensional image.2. The catheter insertion supporting system according to claim 1 , further comprising a correspondence relationship specification section configured to associate the organ having the cross section detected by the detection section in the three-dimensional computed tomography image and an organ having the contour shape in the two-dimensional image which at least partly coincides with the contour shape included in the cross section with each other to specify a correspondence relationship between each organ in ...

TYMPANIC PROBE COVER

A digital non-contact tympanic thermometer has a tympanic probe with an IR sensor at the end of the probe in which the digital non-contact tympanic thermometer can be converted to a digital non-contact non-tympanic thermometer for non-tympanic surfaces by placement of removeable probe cover over the tympanic cover in which the probe cover includes a parabolic condenser at the tip of the probe cover that increases gathering of incoming infrared energy. 1. A tympanic probe cover comprising:a probe cover body that has a geometry to fit an ear canal, the probe cover body having an upper free frontal end, the upper free frontal end of the probe cover body having a tip, the probe cover body does not include any further structures;a probe cover window at the upper free frontal end of the probe cover body that closes off the upper free frontal end of the probe cover body, probe cover window being attached to the probe cover body by a weaving, the probe cover window being transparent to infrared radiation at a radiation range relevant for human temperature measurement;a probe cover base that is attached at a bottom of the probe cover body that is an opposite end of the upper free frontal end of the probe cover body; andan infrared parabolic condenser inside the tip of the upper free frontal end of the probe cover body.2. The tympanic probe cover of claim 1 , wherein the probe cover body further comprises:a tapered probe cover body.3. The tympanic probe cover of claim 1 , wherein the probe cover body further comprises:a conical probe cover body.4. A tympanic probe cover comprising:a probe cover body that has a geometry to fit an ear canal, the probe cover body having an upper free frontal end, the probe cover body does not include any further structures;a probe cover window at the upper free frontal end of the probe cover body that closes off the upper free frontal end of the probe cover body, the probe cover window being transparent to infrared radiation at a radiation range ...

SIDE LOOKING MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY

A surgical instrument is inserted through a guide tube. The surgical instrument exits at an intermediate position of the guide tube and is oriented to be substantially parallel to the guide tube's longitudinal axis as it exits. A stereoscopic image capture component is on the guide tube between the intermediate position and the guide tube's distal end. The image capture component's field of view is generally perpendicular to the guide tube's longitudinal axis. The guide tube is jointed to allow the image capture component to be moved. The surgical instruments and the guide tube are telemanipulatively controlled. 1. A surgical instrument assembly comprising:a guide tube comprising a proximal end, a distal end, and an intermediate position between the proximal and distal ends; anda surgical instrument, wherein the surgical instrument is configured to pass through the guide tube, and wherein the surgical instrument is configured to exit the guide tube at the intermediate position; the surgical instrument comprises a parallel motion mechanism, the entire parallel motion mechanism of the surgical instrument being distal to the intermediate position in a first configuration; and', 'the parallel motion mechanism of the surgical instrument heaves and sways a distal end of the surgical instrument without changing pitch and yaw of the distal end of the surgical instrument., 'wherein2. The surgical instrument assembly of claim 1 , wherein the surgical instrument comprises an end effector.3. The surgical instrument assembly of claim 1 , wherein the surgical instrument comprises an endoscopic image capture component.4. The surgical instrument assembly of claim 1 , wherein:the surgical instrument comprises a first body segment;the parallel motion mechanism comprises a first joint, a second joint, and a rigid second body segment;the first joint, the second body segment, and the second joint being connected in series;the first joint comprises a first hinge and a second hinge, the ...

WEARABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE INCLUDING WRIST BIOMETRIC SENSOR FOR ACQUIRING SKIN TEXTURE PATTERN IMAGES AND RELATED METHODS

A wearable electronic device may include a device body and a device band coupled to the device body for securing the device to a wrist of a user. The wearable electronic device may also include a wrist biometric sensor carried by one of the device body and the device band. The wrist biometric sensor may include biometric sensing pixels. The wearable electronic device may also include a processor coupled to the wrist biometric sensor and configured to cooperate with the biometric sensing pixels to acquire skin texture pattern images from adjacent portions of the user's wrist, and perform at least one authentication function based upon the skin texture pattern images. 1. A wearable electronic device comprising:a device body;a device band coupled to the device body for securing the device to a wrist of a user;a wrist biometric sensor carried by one of the device body and the device band, and comprising a plurality of biometric sensing pixels; and ["cooperate with the plurality of biometric sensing pixels to acquire skin texture pattern images from adjacent portions of the user's wrist, and", 'perform at least one authentication function based upon the skin texture pattern images., 'a processor coupled to the wrist biometric sensor and configured to'}2. The wearable electronic device of wherein the wrist biometric sensor comprises an infrared (IR) thermal image sensor.3. The wearable electronic device of wherein skin texture has a first thermal pattern associated therewith; wherein hair has a second thermal pattern associated therewith; and wherein the processor is configured to perform the authentication function by thermally distinguishing the first and second thermal patterns.4. The wearable electronic device of wherein the IR thermal image sensor comprises a microbolometer.5. The wearable electronic device of wherein the wrist biometric sensor comprises an electric field sensor.6. The wearable electronic device of wherein the wrist biometric sensor comprises an ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETECTING NIR FLUORESCENCE AT SENTINEL LYMPH NODE

A device for observing a sentinel lymph node (SLN) in a human body. More particularly, the present invention relates to a device for observing an SLN by detecting near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence caused by a fluorescent material such as indocyanine green (ICG) at the SLN and a method for detecting NIR fluorescence at an SLN. Particularly, in the implementation of a composite image obtained by reproducing a fluorescent material such as ICG and NIR fluorescence emitted by excitation light together with a visible light image, it is possible to detect an SLN with high accuracy through a color contrast method and/or a temporal modulation method using an NIR fluorescence image signal and a visible reflection light image signal. 1. A device for detecting near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence at a sentinel lymph node (SLN) , the device comprising:a white light source for emitting white light onto an object;a near-infrared (NIR) excitation light source for emitting near-infrared (NIR) excitation light onto the object;an optical analyzing assembly for transmitting white reflection light reflected off the object when the white light is incident on the object and near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence reflected off the object when the near-infrared (NIR) excitation light is incident on the object;a multispectral image processing unit for detecting the white reflection light and the near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence, transmitted from the optical analyzing assembly, and process the white reflection light and the near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence as a visible (VIS) reflection light image signal and a near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence image signal, respectively; anda display unit for outputting a composite image obtained by combining the visible (VIS) reflection light image signal and the near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence image signal, processed by the multispectral image processing unit,wherein the multispectral image processing unit splits the visible (VIS) reflection light image signal into ...

MEDICAL DEVICE COMPRISING AN ELECTRODE AND A LIGHT SOURCE

A device for insertion into soft tissue including a micro electrode, a micro light source; a stiffening element having a material dissolvable or degradable in aqueous body fluid or a material swellable in such fluid to form a transparent gel; a coat of a flexible non-conducting polymer material on the stiffening element; a base disposed at the rear end of the device. The flexible coat has a distal opening allowing light emitted from the light source to leave the device upon said collapse or dissolution or swelling. Also disclosed is a therapeutic or diagnostic device formed in the tissue from the insertable device, uses thereof, and a method of disposing the insertable device in soft tissue. 1. Medical device for insertion into soft tissue having a front (distal) end and a rear (proximal) end , comprising:a micro electrode;a micro light source; a) a material dissolvable or degradable in aqueous body fluid in an amount sufficient to make the stiffening element dissolve or collapse in contact with aqueous body fluid;', 'b) a material swellable in aqueous body fluid to form a transparent gel;, 'a stiffening element comprising one ofa coat of a flexible non-conducting polymer material on the stiffening element preventing or at least delaying contact between the electrode and soft tissue upon collapse or swelling of the stiffening element, the coat having a distal opening allowing light emitted from the light source to leave the device upon said collapse or dissolution or swelling,a base disposed at the rear end of the device.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the light source is a member of the group consisting of LED claim 1 , micro laser claim 1 , optical fiber receiving light from a source not comprised by the device.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the micro electrode comprises a metal or a metal alloy or an electrically conducting polymer.4. The device of claim 2 , wherein the micro electrode comprises a rod or a layer on the optical fiber or a layer on the ...

Infrared Imaging System Having Structural Data Enhancement

An imaging system includes a light source for emitting visible light and infrared light and a camera head unit configured to capture visible light image data so as to generate a visible light image frame and configured to capture infrared image data so as to generate an infrared image frame. A camera control unit is configured to extract a structural data from the visible light image frame. The camera control unit is further configured to apply the structural data to the infrared image frame so as to enhance the infrared image with structural data.

BIO IMAGING SYSTEMS AND BIO IMAGING METHODS

A bio imaging system includes a plurality of light emitters configured to irradiate light, and a plurality of sensors configured to detect light reflected by an internal tissue of a living body. Each sensor includes a plurality of photo-detecting elements having different absorption peak wavelengths in relation to each other. 1. A bio imaging system , comprising:a plurality of light emitters configured to irradiate light, anda plurality of sensors configured to detect light scattered or reflected by internal tissue of a living body,wherein each sensor of the plurality of sensors includes a plurality of photo-detecting elements having different absorption peak wavelengths in relation to each other.2. The bio imaging system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of photo-detecting elements are stacked on each other.3. The bio imaging system of claim 1 , wherein each absorption peak wavelength of the plurality of photo-detecting elements is within a visible wavelength spectrum or an infrared wavelength spectrum.4. The bio imaging system of claim 3 , wherein each absorption peak wavelength of the plurality of photo-detecting elements is within about 450 nm to about 1200 nm.5. The bio imaging system of claim 4 , wherein a difference between absorption peak wavelengths of the plurality of photo-detecting elements is greater than or equal to about 10 nm.6. The bio imaging system of claim 1 , wherein each emission spectrum of each light emitter of the plurality of light emitters includes respective absorption peak wavelengths of the plurality of photo-detecting elements.7. The bio imaging system of claim 1 , wherein the first photo-detecting element includes a first absorption layer configured to selectively detect light in a first absorption spectrum having a first absorption peak wavelength, and', 'the second photo-detecting element includes a second absorption layer configured to selectively detect light in a second absorption spectrum having a second absorption peak ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FACILITATING MANUAL AND/OR AUTOMATIC VOLUMETRIC IMAGING WITH REAL-TIME TENSION OR FORCE FEEDBACK USING A TETHERED IMAGING DEVICE

According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, apparatus, device and method can be provided which can provide imaging of biological tissues, e.g., luminal organs in vivo, using optical techniques in an automatic or semiautomatic manner. The exemplary apparatus, device and method can utilize a tethered capsule catheter with a mechanism for manual, semi-automatic or automatic traversing in the luminal organ with a controlled velocity and/or image quality. The exemplary apparatus can include feedback information about tension applied to the catheter during its movement that can be used to adjust velocity and assure patient comfort and safety for example during passing through natural sphincters and/or narrowing of the luminal organs and preventing from breaking of the catheter. The exemplary apparatus can also adjust velocity in order to provide good quality of acquired images, for example to engaged peristalsis and provide contact with the tissue. In one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the exemplary mechanism for a controlled advancement of the catheter can be positioned outside of the patient's mouth, and can include a position sensor providing information about the position of the capsule in respect to the luminal organ for orientation of the acquired data. 1. An apparatus for determining a force on at least one section thereof within at least one anatomical structure , comprising:a catheter first arrangement configured to obtain image data regarding at least one of (i) at least one first portion of the at least one anatomical structure or (ii) at least one second portion of the first arrangement, when the first arrangement is inserted within the at least one anatomical structure; anda force measurement second arrangement configured to determine the force on the at least one section of the apparatus using the image data.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the image data includes information includes a difference information ...

ENDOSCOPE SYSTEM

Provided is an endoscope system including a light source device that outputs signal light that penetrates tissue within a living body; a narrow medical instrument that is inserted into a blood vessel and whose distal end has an emission window from which the signal light supplied from the light source device is emitted; an endoscope that is inserted into the living body and has an imager, which obtains an optical image by acquiring an image of the living body, and a detector, which detects the signal light emitted from the emission window; and an image processor that generates a composite image by combining the optical image with a marker that indicates a position of the signal light. 1. An endoscope system comprising:a light source device that outputs signal light that penetrates tissue within a living body;a narrow medical instrument that is inserted into a blood vessel and whose distal end has an emission window from which the signal light supplied from the light source device is emitted;an endoscope that is inserted into the living body and has an imager, which obtains an optical image by acquiring an image of the living body, and a detector, which detects the signal light emitted from the emission window; andan image processor that generates a composite image by combining the optical image obtained by the imager with a marker that indicates a position of the signal light detected by the detector.2. The endoscope system according to claim 1 ,wherein the light source device outputs near-infrared light or infrared light as the signal light.3. The endoscope system according to claim 1 ,wherein the light source device outputs visible light with a color different from a color of the living body as the signal light.4. The endoscope system according to claim 1 ,wherein the imager obtains the optical image when the signal light is emitted from the emission window and the optical image when the signal light is not emitted from the emission window, andwherein the image ...

Systems and methods of creating in vivo medical images of tissue near a cavity

Systems and methods of forming optical coherence tomography (OCT) images of tissue near a cavity of subject are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a method of forming an image includes transmitting light pulses toward a region of interest near the cavity and receiving light backscattered from the region of interest using an imaging probe. The imaging probe includes a nosepiece configured to be at least partially received into the cavity. An image of the region of interest is formed using the backscattered light received from the region of interest.

Optical probe for cervical examination

A system for imaging and examination of a cervix, comprising a control module connectable with a changeable head configured to image the cervix and collect a tissue biopsy, the head selected from a group consisting of a digital colposcope module, a transvaginal optical probe module and an endo-cervical endoscope module. The system may additionally comprise light source(s) to illuminate cervix tissue; sensing device(s) to generate signal(s) from light and/or to acquire image(s) of a portion of a cervix; and processor(s) in communication with the sensing device(s). The system is configured to: (i) analyze the signal(s); (ii) detect the size of the cervix; (iii) determine parameters defining properties of the cervix; (iv) determine and distinguish normal tissue from abnormal tissue within the cervix; (v) determine the location of area(s) of abnormal tissue in the cervix; and (vi) generate a panoramic view of the cervix.

MICROMETER SIZE MULTI-FUNCTIONAL PROBE FOR OCT AND ELECTRO-PHYSIOLOGICAL RECORDING

A device and method for guided insertion of microelectrodes into tissue is provided. The device includes a flexible optical fiber for optical coherence tomography imaging, a metal layer coating the optical fiber for recording electrical signals and an outer insulation layer coating the metal layer along the optical fiber length. The method includes inserting an optical fiber coated with a metal layer and further coated with an insulation layer into a tissue, collecting intraoperative image data through the optical fiber by optical coherence tomography, receiving the image data on a computer and displaying the image on a monitor, using the image data to determine a location in the tissue, receiving an electrical nerve signal through the metal layer and measuring the electrical nerve signal on a electrophysiological recording system. 1. A probe for tissue recording in a medical procedure , comprising:a flexible optical fiber for optical coherence tomography imaging, having an optical fiber distal end an optical fiber proximal end and an optical fiber length extending from the optical fiber distal end to the optical fiber proximal end;a metal layer coating the optical fiber length for recording electrical signals, having a metal layer distal end and a metal layer proximal end;an electrophysiological recording system connected to the metal layer proximal end; andan outer insulation layer coating the metal layer along the optical fiber length.2. The probe as in claim 1 , wherein the probe diameter is less than 700 microns.3. The probe as in claim 1 , wherein the medical procedure is deep brain stimulation.4. The probe as in claim 1 , wherein the optical fiber distal end is a shaped tip to focus light for optical coherence tomography imaging.5. The probe as in claim 4 , wherein the shaped tip is conical claim 4 , ball-shaped or semi-ball shaped.6. The probe as in claim 1 , wherein the optical fiber distal end is angled.7. The probe as in claim 1 , wherein the insulation ...

TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENT SYSTEMS, METHOD AND DEVICES

A system that produces temperature estimations of a tissue surface comprises a base including a motion unit. A fiber assembly includes at least one fiber constructed and arranged to receive infrared energy from the tissue surface, the fiber assembly transmissive of infrared energy; the fiber assembly including a proximal end, a distal end and a body. An optical element redirects received infrared energy to the distal end of the fiber optic. A linkage is coupled between the base and the optical element, the fiber extending through the linkage, the linkage coupled to the motion unit at a proximal end and the optical element at a distal end, the motion unit constructed and arranged to rotate the linkage about the fiber assembly to thereby rotate the optical element at the distal end. 1. A system that produces temperature estimations of a tissue surface , comprising:a base including a motion unit;a fiber assembly including at least one fiber constructed and arranged to receive infrared energy from the tissue surface, the fiber assembly transmissive of infrared energy; the fiber assembly including a proximal end, a distal end and a body;an optical element that redirects received infrared energy to the distal end of the fiber optic; anda linkage coupled between the base and the optical element, the fiber extending through the linkage, the linkage coupled to the motion unit at a proximal end and the optical element at a distal end, the motion unit constructed and arranged to rotate the linkage about the fiber assembly to thereby rotate the optical element at the distal end.2217-. (canceled) This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/204,186 filed Aug. 12, 2015 entitled “Temperature Measurement Systems, Method and Devices,” the content of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.This patent application is related to PCT/US15/33680 filed Jun. 2, 2015, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/007,677 ...

THERMOMETER FOR DETERMINING THE TEMPERATURE OF AN ANIMAL'S EAR DRUM AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME

The present invention relates to a thermometer for determining the temperature of an animal's ear drum. The thermometer includes a probe, an infrared-radiation detector adapted to receive infrared radiation emitted by the ear drum, and devices that help determine the probe's position in the ear canal so as to optimize the infrared radiation received from the ear drum, and to minimize the infrared radiation received from other ear parts. A method of using the thermometer is also disclosed. 1. A thermometer for determining a temperature of a vertebrate animal's ear drum disposed at the inner end of the animal's ear canal defined by an ear canal wall , said thermometer comprising:a probe adapted to be inserted into the ear canal;a detector adapted to sense infrared radiation emitted by the ear canal and the ear drum, said detector being operatively coupled to said probe;an array of electrode pads arranged about said probe; and wherein the microprocessor is configured to determine an electrical value associated with at least one of said electrode pads in said array of electrode pads,', 'wherein the microprocessor is configured to assess the electrical value relative to a threshold electrical value associated with said at least one electrode pad, and', 'wherein the microprocessor is configured to determine an indication of the orientation of said probe relative to the wall of said ear canal in the vicinity of said probe based on ascertaining whether the electrical value attains or exceeds the associated threshold electrical value for said at least one electrode pad., 'a microprocessor in operative electrical communication with each of said electrode pads in said array of electrode pads,'}2. The thermometer according to wherein said array includes at least three electrode pads claim 1 , wherein the microprocessor is configured to assess the electrical value relative to a threshold value associated with each of said at least three electrode pads claim 1 , wherein the ...

IMAGE-GUIDED TRANSSEPTAL PUNCTURE DEVICE

Provided herein is a catheter assembly including an imaging device for identifying an anatomical structure. The catheter assembly includes a patient cannula configured to be drawn along a catheter or guide wire; a transseptal puncture catheter at least partially enclosed within the patient cannula; and an imaging catheter. The imaging catheter includes a transducer configured to emit an energy beam capable of reflecting from an anatomical structure and to detect energy reflected from the structure. The catheter assembly also includes a transmitter for conveying a signal representative of the detected energy from the transducer to a signal processor for obtaining information about the structure. An imagining system and a method for identifying a predetermined transseptal puncture location on an atrial septum are also provided herein. 1. A catheter assembly for performing a puncture of an anatomical wall , the catheter assembly comprising:a patient cannula configured to be drawn along a catheter or guide wire;a puncture catheter at least partially enclosed within the patient cannula;an imaging catheter comprising at least one transducer located on a distal portion of the imaging catheter configured to emit an energy beam in an axial direction, the energy beam being capable of reflecting from a portion of the anatomical wall and to detect energy reflected from the anatomical wall; anda transmitter for conveying a signal representative of the detected energy from the transducer to a signal processor for obtaining information for visually distinguishing thickness of different portions of the anatomical wall.2. The catheter assembly of claim 1 , wherein the puncture catheter comprises an introducer and a transseptal needle.3. The catheter assembly of claim 1 , wherein the imaging catheter is enclosed within claim 1 , co-formed claim 1 , or integrated with the patient cannula.4. The catheter assembly of claim 1 , wherein the imaging catheter extends parallel with and is ...

PAIN DETECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD UTILIZING NEAR-INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY

Disclosed is a pain detection system and method. Preferred methods include capturing imaging data from patient using functional near-infrared spectroscopy. In methods of the invention, pain may be assessed from a non-responsive patient. Preferred methods may further include measuring hemodynamic parameters using the optical imaging data and averaging the measured hemodynamic parameters to reduce background noise. Additionally, a pattern in the averaged hemodynamic parameters is identified and the pattern is compared to a predetermined associated with patient pain. The method further includes detecting, by the processor, a similarity between the pattern and the predetermined pattern and outputting a signal indicating patient pain.

PROBE FOR OPTICAL SPECTROSCOPY

A probe () comprising a body portion () and a tip portion (). The body portion comprises: a first mounting portion () comprising a plurality of first carriers supporting elongate first waveguides, and disposed in an equiangular arrangement around a longitudinal axis (A) of the body portion; a body end fitting () at which first ends of the first waveguides are supported such that the first waveguides can transmit electromagnetic radiation signals from an energy source to the body end fitting and/or transmit electromagnetic radiation signals from the body end fitting to a receiver. The tip portion comprises: a second mounting portion () comprising a plurality of second carriers supporting elongate second waveguides, the second carriers being disposed in the equiangular arrangement around a longitudinal axis of the tip portion; and a tip end fitting () at which first ends of the second waveguides are supported in the equiangular arrangement around the longitudinal axis of the tip portion; and an elongate conduit () for piercing human tissue. 1. A probe comprising: a first mounting portion comprising a plurality of first carriers, each first carrier being arranged to support an elongate first waveguide, the first carriers being disposed in an equiangular arrangement around a longitudinal axis of the body portion;', 'a plurality of first waveguides, each first waveguide being supported in a respective one of the plurality of first carriers; and', 'a body end fitting at which first ends of the first waveguides are supported in the equiangular arrangement around the longitudinal axis of the body portion such that the first waveguides can transmit electromagnetic radiation signals from an energy source to the body end fitting and/or transmit electromagnetic radiation signals from the body end fitting to a receiver; and, 'a body portion, the body portion comprising a second mounting portion comprising a plurality of second carriers, each second carrier being arranged to ...

Electromechanical Pill Device with Localization Capabilities

Various embodiments are described herein for a device, system, and method for identifying a location of an ingestible device within a gastrointestinal tract of a body. In some embodiments, the ingestible device includes a sensing unit with an axial optical sensing sub-unit located proximal to at least one end of the device, and a radial optical sensing sub-unit located proximal to a radial wall of the device, and may autonomously identify a location within the gastrointestinal tract. In some embodiments, the ingestible device includes optical illumination sources and detectors that operate at a plurality of different wavelengths, and may discern regions of a gastrointestinal tract by using the reflection properties of organ tissue and occasional particulates. In some embodiments, the ingestible device may sample fluid or release medicament based on a detected device location. 191-. (canceled)92. An ingestible device , comprising: a chamber configured to store a therapeutic agent;', 'an actuator having a first state in which the therapeutic agent is stored in the chamber and a second state in which the therapeutic agent is released from the chamber to an exterior of the housing; and, 'a housing, comprisinga detector configured to detect a location of the ingestible device in a GI tract of a subject; anda microcontroller configured to, based on the location of the ingestible device in the GI tract of the subject detected by the detector, cause the actuator to move from its first state to its second state so that the therapeutic agent is delivered to the exterior of the ingestible device.93. The ingestible device of claim 92 , further comprising a light source configured to transmit a first wavelength of light toward an environment external to the housing.94. The ingestible device of claim 93 , wherein the first wavelength of light is in a spectrum selected from the group consisting of an infrared spectrum claim 93 , a red spectrum claim 93 , a blue spectrum and a ...

Surgical visualization with proximity tracking features

A surgical visualization system is disclosed. The surgical visualization system is configured to identify one or more structure(s) and/or determine one or more distances with respect to obscuring tissue and/or the identified structure(s). The surgical visualization system can facilitate avoidance of the identified structure(s) by a surgical device. The surgical visualization system can comprise a first emitter configured to emit a plurality of tissue-penetrating light waves and a second emitter configured to emit structured light onto the surface of tissue. The surgical visualization system can also include an image sensor configured to detect reflected visible light, tissue-penetrating light, and/or structured light. The surgical visualization system can convey information to one or more clinicians regarding the position of one or more hidden identified structures and/or provide one or more proximity indicators.

CONTROLLING AN EMITTER ASSEMBLY PULSE SEQUENCE

A system and method for controlling an emitter assembly for visualizing a surgical site is disclosed. The emitter assembly is configured to emit a pulse pattern of electromagnetic radiation at the surgical site. The electromagnetic radiation pattern can include infrared radiation, visible light, or combinations thereof in either structured or non-structured formats. Further, a receiver assembly is configured to receive the electromagnetic radiation reflected from the surgical site. The control circuit can be configured to control the sequence or pattern in which the electromagnetic radiation is pulsed according to a preset sequence or according to feedback from the surgical site. 1. A surgical instrument for visualizing a surgical site , the surgical instrument comprising:an emitter assembly configured to emit electromagnetic radiation at the surgical site, the electromagnetic radiation comprising at least one of infrared radiation, visible light, or structured light;a receiver assembly configured to receive the electromagnetic radiation reflected from the surgical site; and cause the emitter assembly to pulse the electromagnetic radiation in a sequence comprising at least one of the infrared radiation, the visible light, or the structured light;', 'detect reflected electromagnetic radiation corresponding to the emitted electromagnetic radiation via the receiver assembly;', 'determine tissue information according to the reflected electromagnetic radiation; and', 'modify the sequence at which at least one of the infrared radiation, the visible light, or the structured light is emitted by the emitter assembly according to the tissue information., 'a control circuit coupled to the emitter assembly and the receiver assembly, the control circuit configured to2. The surgical instrument of claim 1 , wherein the control circuit is configured to control the emitter assembly to sweep the emitted electromagnetic radiation over a range of wavelengths.3. The surgical instrument ...

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR ENHANCED TRANSDERMAL VISUALIZATION OF MEDICAL DEVICES

Implantable and/or insertable devices having a near-IR fluorescing material that allows the device to be visualized through a patient's skin. Also described herein are apparatuses for imaging devices having a near-IR fluorescing material, and methods of imaging devices having a near-IR fluorescing material from within the body, including methods of modifying an implanted device having near-IR fluorescing material. 1. An arteriovenous shunt (AV shunt) implant device that is configured to be visible through the patient's skin using near-infrared (near-IR) illumination , the device comprising:an elongated tubular body the body comprising polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and having an inner lumen forming an inner layer;a first middle layer extending at least partially over the inner layer, the first middle layer comprising a first substrate and a near-IR dye, wherein the near-IR dye is at a concentration of between 0.0001% to 0.5% w/w and comprises one or more of: 1,1′,3,3,3′,3′-Hexamethylindotricarbocyanine iodide (HITCI), and a rylene dye; anda first outer layer extending over the first middle layer and sealing the first middle layer between the first outer layer and the inner layer.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the near-IR dye is at a concentration of between 0.001% w/w and 0.1% w/w.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the tubular body comprises a second middle layer separate from the first middle layer claim 1 , wherein the second middle layer comprises a second substrate and a second near-IR dye.4. The device of claim 3 , wherein the second middle layer is covered by the first outer layer or a second outer layer extending over the second middle layer and sealing the second middle layer between the second outer layer and the inner layer.5. The device of claim 3 , wherein the second near-IR dye is the same as the first near-IR dye and the second substrate is the same as the first substrate.6. The device of claim 1 , wherein the first substrate comprises silicone.7. ...

PROBE COVER WITH MATCHING FEATURE FOR A MEDICAL THERMOMETER

A probe cover for medical thermometer has a matching feature for preventing its use with an incompatible thermometer. A mechanical matching feature of the probe cover includes at least one of a fold, a step, or a series of holes or indentations that are respectively matched to a ridge, a valley or series of pins formed on the front end of a compatible thermometer. When applied to the compatible thermometer, the mechanical matching feature permits the probe cover to be fully seated on and retained by the probe, thereby placing the thermometer in condition for use. Alternatively, an opto-electronic matching feature of the probe cover includes a reflective layer for use with an opto-electronic detection circuit of a compatible thermometer. When applied to the compatible thermometer, the opto-electronic detection detects the reflective layer and places the compatible thermometer in an operational state for use. 1. A probe cover for covering a probe of a thermometer , the probe comprising a proximal end in proximity to the housing of the thermometer and distal end , the probe cover comprising:a tip portion configured for covering the distal end of the probe;a base portion configured for retaining the probe cover at the proximal end of the probe; anda body portion disposed between the tip portion and the base portion, wherein:the tip portion, the body portion and the base portion are sequentially disposed in a direction along a longitudinal axis of the probe cover, andthe base portion includes one or more matching features each configured to engage a corresponding feature of a thermometer housing for seating the probe cover on the probe.2. The probe cover of claim 1 , wherein:the base portion includes a brim extending laterally away from the longitudinal axis; andthe one or more matching features comprise at least one fold within the brim.3. The probe cover of claim 1 , wherein:the base portion includes a brim extending laterally away from the longitudinal axis; andthe ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETECTING NIR FLUORESCENCE AT SENTINEL LYMPH NODE

A device for observing a sentinel lymph node (SLN) in a human body. The present invention relates to a device for observing an SLN by detecting near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence caused by a fluorescent material such as indocyanine green (ICG) at the SLN and a method for detecting NIR fluorescence at an SLN. Particularly, in the implementation of a composite image obtained by reproducing a fluorescent material such as ICG and NIR fluorescence emitted by excitation light together with a visible light image, it is possible to detect an SLN with high accuracy through a color contrast method and/or a temporal modulation method using an NIR fluorescence image signal and a visible reflection light image signal. 1. A device for detecting near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence at a sentinel lymph node (SLN) , the device comprising:a white light source configured to irradiate white light onto an object;a near-infrared (NIR) excitation light source configured to irradiate near-infrared (NIR) excitation light onto the object;an optical analyzing assembly configured to transmit white reflection light reflected off the object when the white light is irradiated on the object and near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence reflected off the object when the near-infrared (NIR) excitation light is irradiated on the object;a multispectral image processing unit configured to detect the white reflection light and the near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence, transmitted from the optical analyzing assembly, and process the white reflection light and the near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence as a visible (VIS) reflection light image signal and a near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence image signal, respectively; anda display unit configured to output a composite image obtained by combining the visible (VIS) reflection light image signal and the near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence image signal, processed by the multispectral image processing unit,wherein the multispectral image processing unit performs image processing so that ...

SENSING CATHETER EMITTING RADIANT ENERGY

A sensing catheter having an outer flexible sheath and a proximal section containing a sensing system having a sensing means, a radiant energy providing means and radiation transmitting means, preferably all housed within a fluid channel. 1. A flexible sensing catheter for insertion into and use within a narrow mammalian body lumen or passage , comprisingan outer catheter sheath having a distal end for insertion into the body lumen or passage,a distal catheter section formed within the catheter sheath and in which the outer sheath terminates in an inwardly tapered distal first exit and/or inlet port having a distal tip aperture of reduced internal port diameter, a sensing means housed within said catheter distal section near the distal tapered first port and having a sensor for sensing a radiant energy directly from the lumen or passage as the catheter travels through or stops within the lumen or passage,', 'radiant energy providing means positioned within said catheter distal section in a location proximal and near to the radiant energy sensor of said sensing means and', 'radiant energy transmitting means for transmitting radiant energy, provided by the radiant energy providing means into the body lumen or passage, and, 'a sensing system comprising'}an annular channel formed between the outer sheath and the sensing means and operatively connected to said first port,said radiant energy transmitting means including means for transmitting the provided radiant energy through the annular channel, around the sensing means, and directly into the body lumen or passage through and from the tapered distal first portsaid catheter including at least two separate fluid flow channels positioned between the sensing system and the outer catheter sheath and comprising a first fluid flow channel operatively connected to said annular channel and a separate second fluid flow channel operatively connected to a second exit and/or inlet port.2. The catheter of wherein the at least two ...

Methods and systems for spatially identifying abnormal cells

The present invention provides compositions and methods for imaging tumor resections.

Shortwave Infrared Imaging System

An example imaging apparatus that can operate at shortwave infrared (SWIR) wavelengths are provided. An example imaging apparatus may include a fiber optic bundle, a distal lens, an illumination assembly, and an imaging detector. The fiber optic bundle may comprise a plurality of fibers and may be configured to guide light energy at a SWIR wavelength. The distal lens may be disposed on a distal end of the fiber optic bundle and the distal lens configured to focus light energy at the SWIR wavelength. The illumination assembly may be configured to output illumination at the SWIR wavelength adjacent to the distal end of the fiber optic bundle toward an object. The imaging detector may be operably coupled to a proximal end of the fiber optic bundle and configured to receive imaging light energy at the SWIR wavelength reflected from the object and guided through the fiber optic bundle. 1. An imaging apparatus comprising: a fiber optic bundle comprising a plurality of fibers, the fiber optic bundle being configured to guide light energy having a shortwave infrared (SWIR) wavelength;', 'a distal lens disposed at the distal end of the flexible elongate member and optically coupled to the fiber optic bundle, the distal lens configured to focus light energy at the SWIR wavelength onto a distal end of the fiber optic bundle; and', 'an illumination fiber configured to guide light energy at the SWIR wavelength to the distal end of the flexible elongate member for output to illuminate an object; and, 'a flexible elongate member having a distal end and proximal end, the flexible elongate member comprising an illumination source configured to generate the light energy at the SWIR wavelength for provision to the illumination fiber; and', 'an imaging detector operably coupled to a proximal end of the fiber optic bundle and configured to receive imaging light energy at the SWIR wavelength reflected from the object and guided through the fiber optic bundle., 'a control assembly ...

Systems and methods for a short wave infrared device

Systems and methods for a short wave infrared (SWIR) otoscope device are provided. The SWIR otoscope device can capture images of a patient's middle ear to aid in diagnosing one of a plurality of maladies. In one embodiment, the SWIR otoscope device can include a SWIR detector, a light source, and a plurality of optics that can enable the SWIR otoscope device to capture images of the middle ear of a patient.

NASOPHARYNGEAL OR OROPHARYNGEAL CANNULA FOR MAIN-STREAM CAPNOGRAPHY

The invention relates to a nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal cannula () comprising a body () formed by a tube () extending through a collar () which can rest on the outer edges of a buccal or nasal cavity of a patient, said tube comprising a first portion () that is at least partially curved so as to be inserted into the patient's buccal or nasal cavity as far as the pharynx and a main channel () forming a fluid passage between the two ends () of the tube. The tube comprises a hard second portion () disposed on one side of the collar opposite the first portion, said second portion comprising a notch (E) transverse to the axis of the main channel and configured to receive infrared means that can obtain a capnography measurement of the air exhaled through the main channel. 1110220440330440330434305504142410420440440444403304343044440550550. An oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal cannula ( , ) comprising a body ( , ) formed by a tube ( , ) extending through a collar ( , ) that is able to rest on the outer edges of an oral or nasal cavity , respectively , of a patient , the tube ( , ) comprising , on one side of the collar ( , ) , a first portion ( , ) that is at least partially curved so as to be inserted into the oral or nasal cavity , respectively , of the patient as far as the pharynx , and a main conduit ( , ) forming a fluid passage between the two ends ( and ; and ) of the tube ( , ) , characterized in that the tube ( , ) comprises a rigid second portion ( , ) arranged on the side of the collar ( , ) opposite the first portion ( , ) , the second portion ( , ) having a notch (E) which is transverse with respect to the axis (II-II′ , VIII-VIII′) of the main conduit ( , ) and which is configured to receive infrared means that are able to perform a capnographic measurement of the air exhaled through the main conduit ( , ).2110033065756505501106575650676022033055043430440. The cannula ( claim 1 , ) as claimed in claim 1 , in which the collar ( claim 1 , ) comprises two ...

INTRAORAL SCANNER WITH DENTAL DIAGNOSTICS CAPABILITIES

Methods and apparatuses for generating a model of a subject's teeth. Described herein are intraoral scanning methods and apparatuses for generating a three-dimensional model of a subject's intraoral region (e.g., teeth) including both surface features and internal features. These methods and apparatuses may be used for identifying and evaluating lesions, caries and cracks in the teeth. Any of these methods and apparatuses may use minimum scattering coefficients and/or segmentation to form a volumetric model of the teeth. 1. A method for generating a three-dimensional (3D) volumetric model of a subject's teeth using an intraoral scanner , the method comprising:capturing 3D surface model data of at least a portion of the subject's teeth using an intraoral scanner as the intraoral scanner is moved over the teeth;taking a plurality of images into the teeth using a near-infrared (near-IR) wavelength with the intraoral scanner as the intraoral scanner is moved over the teeth so that multiple images of a same internal region of the teeth are imaged;determining, for each of the plurality of images into the teeth, a position of the intraoral scanner relative to the subject's teeth using the 3D surface model data; andforming the 3D volumetric model of the subject's teeth including internal features using the plurality of images and the position of the intraoral scanner relative to the subject's teeth.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein taking the plurality of images into the teeth comprises emitting a near-infrared (near-IR) light from the intraoral scanner in a first polarization claim 1 , and detecting claim 1 , in an image sensor in the intraoral scanner claim 1 , the near-IR light returning to the intraoral scanner claim 1 , wherein the near-IR light returning to the intraoral scanner is filtered to remove specular reflection by filtering near-IR light in the first polarization from the near-IR light returning to the intraoral scanner before it reaches the image sensor.3. ...

METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR FORMING A THREE-DIMENSIONAL VOLUMETRIC MODEL OF A SUBJECT'S TEETH

Methods and apparatuses for generating a model of a subject's teeth. Described herein are intraoral scanning methods and apparatuses for generating a three-dimensional model of a subject's intraoral region (e.g., teeth) including both surface features and internal features. These methods and apparatuses may be used for identifying and evaluating lesions, caries and cracks in the teeth. Any of these methods and apparatuses may use minimum scattering coefficients and/or segmentation to form a volumetric model of the teeth. 1. A method of forming a three-dimensional (3D) volumetric model of a subject's teeth , the method comprising the steps of:taking a plurality of near-infrared (near-IR) images of the subject's teeth with a camera sensor, wherein the near-IR lighting for the plurality of near-IR images is projected substantially from a direction of the camera sensor;receiving location data representing a location of the camera relative to the subject's teeth for each of the plurality of near-IR images;generating, for each point in a volume, an upper bound on a scattering coefficient from the plurality of near-IR images and the location data;combining the upper bound of scattering coefficients for each point in a volume to form a 3D volumetric model of the subject's teeth; andoutputting the 3D volumetric model of the subject's teeth.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein outputting comprises forming an iso-surface from the 3D volumetric model of the subject's teeth.3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising segmenting the iso-surfaces to form an internal structure corresponding to a structure within the subject's teeth.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising receiving surface data representing an exterior surface of the subject's teeth claim 1 , wherein the generating step is performed for each point in the volume within the exterior surface of the subject's teeth.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein outputting comprises forming an iso-surface corresponding to an ...

METHODS FOR DENTAL DIAGNOSTICS

Methods and apparatuses for generating a model of a subject's teeth. Described herein are intraoral scanning methods and apparatuses for generating a three-dimensional model of a subject's intraoral region (e.g., teeth) including both surface features and internal features. These methods and apparatuses may be used for identifying and evaluating lesions, caries and cracks in the teeth. Any of these methods and apparatuses may use minimum scattering coefficients and/or segmentation to form a volumetric model of the teeth. 1. A method comprising:receiving data associated with an intraoral scan of a subject;determining, from the received data, at least a portion of a volume of a first internal feature of a tooth of the subject;determining, from the received data, at least a portion of a volume of a second internal feature of the tooth of the subject, the first internal feature differing from the second internal feature;outputting a three-dimensional (3D) volume of the portion of the volume of the first internal feature with the portion of the volume of the second internal feature.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising mapping the portion of the volume of the first internal feature with the portion of the volume of the second internal feature;3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the received data comprises data from tooth surface penetrating intraoral scan of the subject.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the received data further comprises data from a tooth surface intraoral scan of the subject.5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising determining claim 1 , from the received data claim 1 , a surface of the tooth of the subject; mapping the surface of the tooth with the portion of the volume of the first internal feature and the portion of the volume of the second internal feature; and outputting the 3D volume with the surface of the tooth with the portion of the volume of the first internal feature and the portion of the volume of the second internal feature.6 ...

NON-FIBER FLAT-PANEL BREAST DIFFUSION OPTICAL TOMOGRAPHY SYSTEM

A breast diffusion optical tomography (DOT) device includes a light source, a detector, a mechanical driver and a contour acquisitor without using optical fiber and reduce the system complexity. The light source includes M1 number of multi-wavelength near-infrared light emitters for a continuous-wave mode and M2 number of laser diodes of different wavelengths for a frequency-domain mode. The detector includes N1 number of silicon photomultipliers for detecting near-infrared light in the continuous-wave mode and N2 number of silicon photomultipliers for detecting near-infrared light in the frequency-domain mode. The mechanical driver adjusts a distance between the light source and the detector. The contour acquisitor obtains the geometry of a patient's breast for reconstruction. The DOT device uses amplitude and phase information obtained in the frequency-domain mode to estimate initial optical parameters of tissues and then apply for reconstruction in the continuous-wave mode. 1. A breast diffusion optical tomography device comprising: a light source , a detector and an acquisitor;wherein the light source and the detector are movable along a predetermined direction;wherein the light source comprises a continuous-wave mode light source and a frequency-domain mode light source, the detector comprises a continuous-wave mode detector and a frequency-domain mode detector, and the acquisitor comprises a continuous-wave mode acquisitor and a frequency-domain mode acquisitor;wherein the continuous-wave mode light source comprises M1 number of multi-wavelength light emitters for a continuous-wave mode, and the frequency-domain mode light source comprises M2 number of laser diodes of different wavelengths for a frequency-domain mode, the continuous-wave mode detector comprises N1 number of silicon photomultipliers for a detection in the continuous-wave mode, and the frequency-domain mode detector comprises N2 number of silicon photomultipliers for a detection in the frequency ...

WEARABLE DEVICE COUPLED TO TIME-OF-FLIGHT IMAGING SYSTEM

An optical system measures one or more physiological parameters with a wearable device that includes a light emitting diode (LED) source including a driver and a plurality of semiconductor sources that generate an output optical light. One or more lenses deliver a lens output light to tissue of a user. A detection system receives at least a portion of the lens output light reflected from the tissue and generates an output signal having a signal-to-noise ratio. The detection system comprises a plurality of spatially separated detectors and an analog to digital converter. The detection system increases the signal-to-noised ratio by comparing a first signal with the LEDs off to a second signal with the LEDs on. An imaging system including a Bragg reflector is pulsed and has a near infrared wavelength. A beam splitter splits the light into a sample arm and a reference arm to measure time-of-flight. 1. An optical system , comprising:a wearable device for measuring one or more physiological parameters, the wearable device adapted to be placed on a wrist or an ear of a user, including a light source comprising a driver and a plurality of semiconductor sources that are light emitting diodes, the light emitting diodes configured to generate an output optical light having one or more optical wavelengths;the wearable device comprising one or more lenses configured to receive at least a portion of the output optical light and to deliver a lens output light to tissue;the wearable device further comprising a detection system configured to receive at least a portion of the lens output light reflected from the tissue and to generate an output signal having a signal-to-noise ratio, wherein the detection system is configured to be synchronized to the light source;wherein the detection system comprises a plurality of detectors that are spatially separated from each other, and wherein at least one analog to digital converter is coupled to at least one of the spatially separated ...

INFRARED OTOSCOPE FOR CHARACTERIZATION OF EFFUSION

An otoscope uses differential reflected response of optical energy at an absorption range and an adjacent wavelength range to determine the presence of water (where the wavelengths are water absorption wavelength and adjacent non-absorption excitation wavelengths). In another example of the invention, the otoscope utilizes OCT in combination with absorption and non-absorption range for bacteria and water. 1) A device for characterization of a liquid adjacent to a tympanic membrane , the device comprising:at least one light source with an optical spectrum, wherein the optical spectrum comprises a first wavelength which is at least partially reflective from the tympanic membrane and at least partially absorptive by viral or bacterial effusion fluid and a second wavelength which is at least partially reflective from the tympanic membrane and less absorptive by the viral or bacterial effusion fluid than the first wavelength;a detector configured to receive reflected light from the tympanic membrane and be responsive to at least the first wavelength and the second wavelength;a controller configured to determine a membrane metric based on a ratio of the detector responses at the first wavelength and the second wavelength, and wherein the membrane metric indicates a presence of the viral or bacterial effusion fluid adjacent the tympanic membrane.2) The device of claim 1 , wherein the detector comprises a first detector responsive to the first wavelength and transparent to the second wavelength positioned in front of a second detector responsive to the second wavelength.3) The device of claim 1 , wherein the optical detector comprises a first detector adjacent to a second detector and a diffraction grating configured to direct the reflected light onto the first detector and the second detector.4) The device of claim 1 , wherein the first wavelength is in the range 1050 nm to 1150 nm and the second wavelength is below 1050 nm.5) The device of claim 1 , wherein the first ...

IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS, IMAGE PROCESSING METHOD, AND PROGRAM

An image processing apparatus includes a special light image acquisition unit that acquires a special light image having information in a specific wavelength band, a generation unit that generates depth information at a predetermined position in a living body using the special light image, and a detection unit that detects a predetermined region using the depth information. The image processing apparatus further includes a normal light image acquisition unit that acquires a normal light image having information in a wavelength band of white light. The specific wavelength band is, for example, infrared light. The generation unit calculates a difference in a depth direction between the special light image and the normal light image to generate depth information at the predetermined position. The detection unit detects a position in which the depth information is a predetermined threshold or more as a bleeding point. The present technology is applicable to an endoscope. 1a medical imaging device; and circuitry configured to', 'acquire a special light image from the image captured by the medical imaging device, the special light image having information limited to a specific wavelength band,', 'generate depth information at a predetermined position of a patient using the special light image, and', 'detect a structural relationship using the depth information., 'an image processing apparatus for processing an image captured by the medical imaging device, comprising. A medical system comprising: The present application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/329,313, filed Jan. 26, 2017, which is a National Stage Entry of PCT Application No. PCT/JP2015/005487, filed Oct. 30, 2015, which claims Priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2014-229368, filed on Nov. 12, 2014, the entire contents of each are incorporated herein by reference.The present technology relates to an image processing apparatus, an image processing method, and a program. Specifically, the ...

System and methods for monitoring physical therapy and rehabilitation of joints

A system for monitoring a patient includes a sensor unit having a housing and sensors disposed in or around the housing; and a base having a shell and configured and arranged to be adhesively attached to skin of the patient. The sensors can be used to monitor physical therapy and rehabilitation of the patient. The sensor unit can provide information to a patient or clinician device to facilitate the monitoring. The sensor data can be used to determine measurements such as tilt angle of the sensor unit and range of motion measurements (such as extension, flexion, or forces associated with movement) of the anatomical region to which the sensor unit is attached. The sensor data can also be used for automated identification or classification of exercises performed by the patient.

Near-infrared time-of-flight imaging using laser diodes with bragg reflectors

A remote sensing system includes an array of laser diodes configured to generate light. One or more scanners are configured to receive a portion of the light from the array of laser diodes and to direct the portion of the light from the array of laser diodes to an object. A detection system is configured to receive at least a portion of light reflected from the object and is configured to be synchronized to the at least a portion of the array of laser diodes comprising Bragg reflectors. The remote sensing system is configured to generate a two-dimensional or three-dimensional mapping using at least a portion of a time-of-flight measurement. The remote sensing system is adapted to be mounted on a vehicle and communicate with a cloud. The at least a portion of the two-dimensional or three-dimensional mapping is combined with global positioning system information.

Prostate glove with receiver fibers

Systems and methods are provided herein that generally involve measuring a prostate or other object. In some embodiments, a membrane can be sealed over a digit extension to form a closed volume. The closed volume can be inflated via an inflation tube, and a reference pattern can be disposed within the closed volume along with a measurement assembly. In use, a user can put on the glove, position the membrane in proximity to a rectal wall overlying a prostate, and inflate the membrane. As the user slides their finger across the rectal wall, optical fibers in the measurement assembly can move relative to a reference pattern, and a controller can sense light reflected through the fibers from the reference pattern. The controller can calculate or estimate various attributes of the prostate based on the reflected light, such as the palpable surface width or volume.

MODULAR SYSTEM FOR MULTI-MODAL IMAGING AND ANALYSIS

A portable, modular handheld imaging system is disclosed. The modular system comprises a first housing portion and a second housing portion. The first housing portion includes at least one excitation light source. A first filter is configured to detect and permit passage of selected optical signals responsive to illumination with the excitation light to a first image sensor. A second filter is configured to detect and permit passage of selected optical signals responsive to illumination of the target surface with white light to a second image sensor. The second housing portion is configured to releasably receive the first housing portion. The second housing portion includes a display and a processor configured to receive the detected fluorescent and white light optical signals and to output a representation of the target surface to the display based on the detected optical signals. 1. A portable , handheld imaging system , comprising:at least one excitation light source configured to emit excitation light during fluorescent imaging;a first filter configured to detect and permit passage of optical signals, responsive to illumination of a target surface with the excitation light and having a wavelength corresponding to one or more of bacterial fluorescence, bacterial autofluorescence, tissue fluorescence, and tissue autofluorescence, to a first image sensor;a white light source configured to emit white light during white light imaging;a second filter configured to detect and permit passage of optical signals, responsive to illumination of the target surface with the white light and having a wavelength in the visible light range, to a second image sensor; anda processor configured to receive the detected fluorescent and white light optical signals and to output a representation of the target surface to a display based on the detected optical signals.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one excitation light source is configured to emit excitation light having ...

SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR DIAGNOSING SLEEP APNEA

Systems, methods and devices for diagnosing sleep apnea are provided herein. In one example, a device for detecting airway obstructions may be provided where the device may include a wearable hollow nasal tube to be positioned in an upper airway above a constriction point and an end imaging sensor coupled to the nasal tube to collect airway image data. The device further may include a controller and communication interface to communicatively link and relay airway image data to a select remote device to determine airway obstructions. In some examples, a method may be provided including receiving airway image data from a remote end imaging sensor coupled to a nasal tube disposed within an upper airway above a constriction point, and analyzing the airway image data and displaying in a sleep study report the airway image data to identify airway closures related to obstructive sleep apnea. 1. A device for detecting airway obstructions during sleep to diagnose OSA , comprising:a wearable hollow nasal tube to be positioned in an upper airway above a constriction point;an end imaging sensor coupled to the nasal tube to collect airway image data; anda controller and communication interface to communicatively link and relay the airway image data during sleep to a select remote device to determine airway obstructions.2. The device of claim 1 , further comprising an inflatable balloon to anchor the nasal tube such that the end imaging sensor is disposed in an airway image data collection position.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the nasal tube is curved relative to a longitudinal axis.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the end imaging sensor is placed at a distal end of the nasal tube such that an image data collection position of the end imaging sensor is within a nasopharynx above the constriction point claim 1 , and wherein the end imaging sensor is further angled downward relative to a nose opening to view an airway.5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the end imaging ...

Colposcopy apparatus for performing a colposcopy procedure

The present invention relates to a colposcopy apparatus ( 10 ) for performing a colposcopy procedure. The colposcopy apparatus ( 10 ) comprises an imaging unit ( 11 ) comprising an optics unit ( 12 ) having an optical axis ( 22 ) and an image acquiring unit ( 13 ) for acquiring an image ( 21 ) of a cervix ( 23 ) through the optics unit, and at least three light beam emitting units ( 14, 15, 16, 17 ) spaced apart from the optical axis, wherein the at least three light beam emitting units are adapted to emit light beams that are coplanar with the optical axis and that intersect on the optical axis at a predefined distance (d 10 ) in front of the colposcopy apparatus, wherein not all of the emitted light beams lie in a same plane. The colposcopy apparatus allows better supporting a user, for instance, a gynecologist, in positioning and/or configuring the colposcopy apparatus for performing the colposcopy procedure.

Resonance raman spectroscopy analyzer instrument for biomolecules in tissues and cells

A method to detect vibrations associated with biomolecules in tissues and cellsuses Resonance Raman (RR) spectroscopy to measure specific biomolecules in tissue and cells signals. The changes of RR lines of key molecules present to the chemical conformations and change due to disease such as cancer and heart disease. Biomolecules are collagen, flavins, tryptophan, NADH, NAD, etc. The laser beams excite RR of vibration associated with absorption of the key native molecules in tissue (Tryptophan, NADH, Flavins, Collagen, carotenoids, porphyrins and others. The margin assessment and RR images in 2D and 3D regions are found by RR signals using position scanners. The intensity and the numbers of molecule fingerprints indicate the prescence of and the degree of the changes of chemical conformations.

RAMAN AND RESONANT RAMAN DETECTION OF VULNERABLE PLAQUE OPTICAL ANALYZER AND IMAGER

Vulnerable plaque (VP) is the main cause of death from heart attacks. All currently available methods developed to diagnose VP lack sensitivity and or specificity and are still unable to identify VP. Our patent addresses the problem to diagnose VP in arteries. The teachings here disclose a vulnerable plaque optical analyzer (VPOA) and Imager (VOPAI) for monitoring arterial walls by measuring whether the fingerprint Raman spectrum of adipose (lipid) tissue using Resonance Raman (RR) and common Raman(R) signals of aortic intimal wall layer. The RR and R lines of lipid determine presentation of VP. 1. Method of detecting vulnerable plaque comprising the steps of inserting a filtered fiber probe into an artery proximate to arterial tissue; applying a laser excitation light in a range of 450 nm to 600 nm; developing an image of the artery wall using RR or R for lipids and plaque; generating Raman signal A from arterial tissue; generating Raman signal B from calcified plaque or VP; filtering Raman signals A and B to transmit Raman peaks at 957 cm; detecting at least one Raman background peak signal A and at least one Raman peak signal B; establishing ratios I/Ito detect VP and plaques.2. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein laser excitation is performed at 532 nm and 785 nm in tissue arteries.3. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein a filtered optical fibers bundle of mm size is used to diagnose in vivo of tissue and VP.4. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein other lasers in blue-green range are used to excite chromophores for vibration enhancement of Raman for RR such as Argon claim 1 , diode claim 1 , semiconductor lasers claim 1 , SHG of YAG claim 1 , HeCd.5. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein Raman lines are detected at about 1435 cmand/or 2850 cm.6. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein two or more of the Raman lines are used to detect VP regions and Lipid regions.7. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein two laser wavelengths are used separated ...

Probe

A probe, such as a spectroscopic probe, for enabling a fluid or tissue sample to be tested in situ. The probe includes a conduit, such as a hypodermic needle, that can be inserted into a test subject and a wave coupling arranged to direct electromagnetic radiation, such as light, from an energy source to the sample and/or from the sample to a receiver for analysis. The receiver may comprise a Raman spectroscope. The probe may include a carriage that can be used to move at least some of the optical coupling towards and away from the insertion tip of the conduit. The probe may include a pressure modifier that can be used to draw fluid into or expel fluid from the conduit.

System and Method for Intravascular Structural Analysis Compensation of Chemical Analysis Modality

A multimodal intravascular analysis uses a structural intravascular analysis modality to compensate for a chemical analysis modality. Examples of structural analysis are IVUS, OCT, including optical coherence domain Reflectometry (OCDR) and optical frequency domain imaging (OFDI), and/or sonar rangefinding. Examples of chemical or functional analysis are optical, NIR, Raman, fluorescence and spectroscopy, thermography and reflectometry. In one example, the structural analysis is used to characterize the environment structurally, such as catheter head-vessel wall distance. This information is then used to select from two or more algorithms which are depth specific (e.g. shallow vs. deep), to achieve improved accuracy in the chemical or functional analysis. 129.-. (canceled)30. A system for analyzing blood vessel walls , the system comprising:a catheter configured to be advanced through blood vessels to a region of interest of the blood vessel wall; and a structural analysis subsystem generating structural information at the region of interest of the blood vessel wall;', 'a chemical analysis subsystem providing chemical analysis information of the region of interest of the blood vessel wall; and', 'a multimodal analyzer configured to compensate the chemical analysis information from the chemical analysis subsystem based on the structural information from the structural analysis subsystem to make an assessment of the state of the blood vessel wall at the region of interest., 'a controller coupled to the catheter and comprising;'}31. The system of claim 30 , wherein the structural analysis subsystem comprises an ultrasound transducer disposed within the catheter.32. The system of claim 30 , wherein the structural information generated by the structural analysis subsystem comprises one or more of distance between the catheter and the blood vessel wall at the region of interest claim 30 , thickness of the blood vessel wall at the region of interest claim 30 , and cap ...

ENDOSCOPE AND ENDOSCOPE SYSTEM

A four color separation endoscope prism includes a four color separation prism having a first color separation prism, a second color separation prism, a third color separation prism, and a fourth color separation prism which respectively separate light incident from an affected area into a blue, red and green color components, and an infrared (IR) component. The first color separation prism, the second color separation prism, the third color separation prism, and the fourth color separation prism are sequentially disposed from an object side when receiving the light incident from the affected area. 1. A four color separation endoscope prism comprising:a first color separation prism, a second color separation prism, a third color separation prism, and a fourth color separation prism which respectively separate light incident from an affected area into a first color component, a second color component, a third color component, and a fourth color component which are any one of a blue color component, a red color component, a green color component, and an infrared (IR) component,wherein a light emission surface of the first color separation prism is disposed opposite to a light emission surface of the second color separation prism and a light emission surface of the third color separation prism across an incident ray which is incident vertically to an object side incident surface of the first color separation prism, andwherein a first angle formed between the object side incident surface of the first color separation prism and a reflective surface of the second color separation prism is less than a second angle formed between the object side incident surface of the first color separation prism and a reflective surface of the third color separation prism.2. The four color separation endoscope prism of claim 1 , wherein a boundary between the first color separation prism and the second color separation prism includes a reflective surface of the first color separation ...

SENSING CATHETER EMITTING RADIANT ENERGY

Provided is a sensing catheter having an outer flexible sheath and a proximal section containing a sensing system having a sensing means, a radiant energy providing means and radiation transmitting means, preferably all housed within a fluid channel. 1. A flexible sensing catheter for insertion into and use within a narrow mammalian body lumen or passage , comprisingan outer catheter sheath having a distal end for insertion into the body lumen or passage,a distal catheter section formed within the catheter sheath and in which the outer sheath terminates in an inwardly tapered distal exit and/or inlet port having a distal tip aperture of reduced internal port diameter, a sensing means housed within said catheter distal section near the distal tapered port and having a sensor for sensing a radiant energy directly from the lumen or passage as the catheter travels through or stops within the lumen or passage,', 'radiant energy providing means positioned within said catheter distal section in a location proximal and near to the radiant energy sensor of said sensing means and', 'radiant energy transmitting means for transmitting radiant energy, provided by the radiant energy providing means into the body lumen or passage, and', 'an annular channel formed between the outer sheath and the sensing means', 'said radiant energy transmitting means including means for transmitting the provided radiant energy through the annular channel, around the sensing means, and directly into the body lumen or passage through and from the tapered distal port., 'a sensing system comprising'}2. A flexible sensing catheter for insertion into and use within a narrow mammalian body lumen or passage , comprisingan outer catheter sheath having a distal end for insertion into the body lumen or passage,a distal catheter section formed within the catheter sheath and functioning as part of a fluid channel and in which the outer sheath terminates in an inwardly tapered distal exit and/or inlet port ...

Recording Device

The invention relates to a recording device () comprising a scan head carrier () for moving the scan head () across a scan area () of a cavity, the scan area () extending around the scan head (). The scan head guide () passes through the cavity towards the scan head (). In particular, a control device () determines the shape of the cavity (). A second extraoral scanning head () scans extraoral areas. 1. A recording device arrangement comprisinga first scan head which is mounted on a scan head carrier, the first scan head being designed for scanning an intraoral scan area which extends at least partially around the first scan head, anda second scan head for scanning extraorally and spaced apart from the first scan head.2. The recording device arrangement according to claim 1 ,wherein the intraoral scan area comprises an edentulous alveolar ridge, andwherein scanning extraorally comprises scanning soft tissue extraorally surrounding a mouth.3. The recording device arrangement according to claim 1 ,wherein the intraoral scan area comprises an edentulous alveolar ridge, andwherein scanning extraorally comprises scanning an extraoral area and an intraoral area.4. The recording device arrangement according to claim 1 ,wherein soft tissue extraorally surrounding a mouth comprises lip tissue and/or cheek tissue5. The recording device arrangement according to claim 1 ,wherein the scan head carrier has at least two scan head accommodations, andwherein one scan head accommodation is always equipped with the first scan head and the other scan head accommodation can optionally be equipped with the second scan head.6. The recording device arrangement according to claim 1 ,wherein the first scan head is essentially designed as an all-round scan head having an essentially spherical detection space, andwherein the second scan head is designed as a directional scan head detecting significantly less than one hemisphere comprising a cone of approximately 120 degrees expansion.7. The ...

System for Transcutaneous Monitoring of Intracranial Pressure

A system for measuring and converting to an observer intelligible form an internal physiological parameter of a patient. The invention allows transcutaneous telemetry of intracranial pressure via a system which includes a patient implanted sensor module and an external processing module, optically coupled to the sensor module via an external coupling module. A sensor within the sensor module transduces the measured pressure and a near infrared emitter transmits the telemetry when interrogated by the external coupling module. A set of tuned inductor-crystal circuits comprised in part of a cylindrical crystal oscillator whose resonant frequency is sensed by a dipper circuit arrangement is provided. Power for the sensor module is derived inductively through rectification of a transcutaneously-applied high-frequency alternating electromagnetic field generated within the external coupling module. A computer within the processing module calculates the physiological parameter from the telemetry signal and represents this data in numerical, graphical, or analog format. 1. A system for retrieving biometric data from an organism comprising:an intracorporeal device;an extracorporeal device;a freespace optical data channel established between the intracorporeal device and the extracorporeal device; and,a freespace electromagnetic power transmission channel established from the extracorporeal device to the intracorporeal device.2. The system of wherein the freespace optical data channel is bidirectional.3. The system of wherein the intracorporeal device is powered only upon receipt of a transmission of power from the electromagnetic power transmission channel.4. The system of wherein the intracorporeal device includes a sensor for gathering biometric data.5. The system of wherein the intracorporeal device includes a conditioning circuit for operating on the biometric data.6. The system of wherein the extracorporeal device includes a processor for operating on the biometric data. ...

System for Transcutaneous Monitoring of Intracranial Pressure

A system for measuring and converting to an observer intelligible form an internal physiological parameter of a patient. The invention allows transcutaneous telemetry of intracranial pressure via a system which includes a patient implanted sensor module and an external processing module, optically coupled to the sensor module via an external coupling module. A sensor within the sensor module transduces the measured pressure and a near infrared emitter transmits the telemetry when interrogated by the external coupling module. A set of tuned inductor-crystal circuits comprised in part of a cylindrical crystal oscillator whose resonant frequency is sensed by a dipper circuit arrangement is provided. Power for the sensor module is derived inductively through rectification of a transcutaneously-applied high-frequency alternating electromagnetic field generated within the external coupling module. A computer within the processing module calculates the physiological parameter from the telemetry signal and represents this data in numerical, graphical, or analog format.

Fiber optic imaging probe having cladding mode pullback trigger, and control method therefor

An optical coherence tomographic (OCT) system includes a sample arm, a reference arm and an OCT probe. The probe irradiates a bodily lumen and a fluid contained within the bodily lumen with light of a sample beam transmitted through a double-clad fiber (DCF). A first detector detects light of a reference beam and light reflected from the bodily lumen and propagated through the core of the DCF to generate OCT interference signals. Light backscattered by the bodily lumen and by the fluid contained in the bodily lumen is propagated through a cladding of the DCF and detected by a second detector to generate an intensity signal. A processor analyzes the intensity signal, and triggers a pullback of the probe and initiates recording of OCT images of the bodily lumen in response to the intensity the backscattered light reaching a predetermined threshold value.

DEVICE FOR DETERMINING SURFACE PROPERTIES OF HOLLOW STRUCTURES

An elongated device and a system that at the same time allow acquisition of temperature-related data of high spatial and temporal resolution from hollow structures together with other relevant data of physical or chemical variables. In a preferred embodiment infrared or visible light sensors are used to obtain thermal or color images from the inner surface during imposed change of the temperature in the lumen of the hollow structure. The disclosure makes it possible to evaluate thermal variations when the inner surface returns to pre-change thermal conditions. High-resolution data can be obtained with the disclosure. The disclosure further includes a system with rotators, injection pumps, a control unit and display operably coupled to one or more of the data acquisition and processing system. 1. A device for determining surface properties , comprising:an elongated body adapted for entering into and positioning in a vicinity of a target region of a hollow biological structure, anda wavelength sensing unit fixedly or rotatably connected to the elongated body, the wavelength sensing unit selected from the group consisting of a cylindrical sensing unit configured to obtain 360 degree data within the hollow biological structure, a square shaped sensing unit having sensing elements on all four sides so to obtain 360 degree data within the hollow biological structure, and a square shaped sensing unit having sensing elements on only one side so that the square shaped sensing unit is configured to obtain 360 degree data when the hollow biological structure when rotated; andwherein the wavelength sensing unit is configured for obtaining spatial and temporal data on the surface properties of the target region of the hollow biological structure sufficient to distinguish between various blood perfusion levels at the target region.2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the wavelength sensing unit comprises at least one infrared sensor for obtaining thermal images of the ...

INFRARED ENDOSCOPIC BALLOON PROBES

Balloon probes, adapted for use in endoscopy and other medical procedures, are useful to obtain spectroscopic information reflected or emitted from a tissue of interest in the infrared spectral region. The information collected by the probe is useful in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. The invention also relates to methods utilizing these probes to analyze a surface of interest, in a minimally invasive manner, in connection with the diagnosis and treatment of disease. 175-. (canceled)76. A probe device , comprising: i.) a proximal end;', 'ii.) a distal collection end opposite said proximal end of the collection fiber, the distal collection end adapted to collect radiation; and', 'iii.) a conductive core located between the proximal end of the collection fiber and the distal collection end of the collection fiber, the conductive core comprising a bend proximate to said distal end;, 'a.) a collection fiber, said collection fiber comprising i.) a proximal end;', 'ii.) a distal end opposite the proximal end; and', 'iii.) a core region located between the proximal end of the sheath and the distal end of the sheath, the core region of the sheath having an orifice in the wall of the sheath;, 'b.) a sheath encasing a portion of the collection fiber, the sheath comprisingc.) a first anchoring balloon disposed along the sheath and proximate to the proximal end of the of the sheath with respect to the orifice in the wall of the sheath; andd.) a second anchoring balloon disposed along said sheath and proximate to the distal end of the sheath with respect to the orifice in the wall of the sheath;wherein the collection fiber is moveably disposed in the sheath, and wherein the bend deploys radially when the distal collection end is advanced through the orifice in the core region of the sheath thereby causing the distal collection end of the collection fiber to move into a space between the first anchoring balloon and the second anchoring balloon.77. The probe device of ...

Diagnostic Device Using Near Infrared Light

Disclosed is a diagnostic tool configured to evaluate human tissue and associated structures. The device can generate electromagnetic radiation (EMR) at or near a near infrared (NIR) window, the NIR window being a predetermined window that includes a range of wavelengths that allow for maximum penetration depth of the EMR being emitted from the device through tissue. The EMR emitted by the device can form a uniform, diffuse NIR transmission corresponding to the NIR window. A controller can be used to control current supply to the light source so as to modulate the intensity or amplitude of the EMR. 1. A diagnostic tool , comprising:at least one light source configured to generate electromagnetic radiation (EMR) within a range from 650 nm to 2500 nm, the EMR being emitted through a light emission region;a detector unit configured to detect interactions of the EMR with tissue;wherein the light emission region is configured as a diffuser to cause the EMR to be a uniform, diffuse electromagnetic transmission spanning the range from 650 nm to 2500 nm or an intermediate range within the range from 650 nm to 2500 nm.2. The diagnostic tool recited in claim 1 , wherein the light emission region is configured to cause the EMR to be a uniform claim 1 , diffuse electromagnetic transmission spanning a range from 650 nm to 1870 nm or an intermediate range within the range from 650 nm to 1870 nm.3. The diagnostic tool recited in claim 1 , wherein the at least one light source comprises a light emitting diode (LED).4. The diagnostic tool recited in claim 1 , wherein the at least one light source comprises a plurality of light sources.5. The diagnostic tool recited in claim 4 , wherein the plurality of light sources comprises:a first light source configured to generate EMR within a first predetermined band of wavelengths;a second light source configured to generate EMR within a second predetermined band of wavelengths; anda third light source configured to generate EMR within a ...

HERMETICALLY-SEALED PACKAGE AND METHOD OF FORMING SAME

Various embodiments of a sealed package and a method of forming such package are disclosed. The package includes a housing, a substrate hermetically sealed to the housing, and a light source disposed on a first major surface of the substrate. The package further includes a detector disposed on the first major surface of the substrate and having a detecting surface. The package also includes a masking layer disposed on at least one of the first major surface and a second major surface of the substrate, where the masking layer includes a first aperture aligned with an emission axis of the light source in a direction orthogonal to the first major surface of the substrate. The masking layer further includes a second aperture aligned with a detection axis of the detector in a direction orthogonal to the first major surface of the substrate. 1. A hermetically-sealed package , comprising:a housing comprising an inner surface and an outer surface;a substrate hermetically sealed to the housing and comprising a first major surface and a second major surface;a light source disposed on the first major surface of the substrate and comprising an emitting surface, wherein the light source is adapted to emit light through the first and second major surfaces of the substrate;a detector disposed on the first major surface of the substrate and comprising a detecting surface, wherein the detector is adapted to detect at least a portion of the light emitted by the light source; anda diffuse region disposed between the emission axis of the light source and the detection axis of the detector in a lateral direction parallel to the first major surface of the substrate.2. The package of claim 1 , wherein the diffuse region is disposed within the substrate.3. The package of claim 1 , wherein the diffuse region is disposed on the second major surface of the substrate.4. A hermetically-sealed package claim 1 , comprising:a housing comprising an inner surface and an outer surface;a substrate ...

Systems and Methods for Infrared-Enhanced Ultrasound Visualization

A system and method for providing enhanced ultrasound images for accessing a vasculature of a patient is disclosed. The system includes an ultrasound imaging device including a probe with a light detector disposed at a distal end thereof. A medical device includes an infrared emitter disposed a distal tip thereof. The emitter provides infrared light that illuminates surrounding tissue. Reflected light is detected and interpreted based on the profile of absorbance spectra which can be used to identify different tissue structures. This light-based information is superimposed on an ultrasound image of the vessel to facilitate first-stick access of patient vasculature.

Optical Speculum

A system for direct imaging and diagnosing of abnormal cells in a target tissue includes an image acquisition system comprising a plurality of independently movable optical elements. The image acquisition system is arranged to capture at least one of a single image or multiple images or video of cells within the target tissue using at least one of bright field or dark field source divided into independently operated segments to obtain a plurality of data sets. An image analysis and control unit in communication with the image acquisition system analyzes the data sets and applies algorithms to the data sets for diagnosing abnormal cells. 1. A system for direct imaging , diagnosing and removing abnormal cells in a target tissue , comprising:an image acquisition system comprising a plurality of optical elements arranged to capture at least one of a single image or multiple images or video of cells within the target tissue using at least one of bright field or dark field source divided into independently operated segments to obtain a plurality of data sets, said optical elements slidably mounted to a track and in mechanical connection with a sliding mechanism that provides independent motion to each of said optical elements; and,an image analysis and control unit in communication with the image acquisition system, the image analysis and control unit analyzing the data sets and applying algorithms to the data sets for diagnosing abnormal cells.2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein said sliding mechanism comprises at least one motor.3. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the image acquisition system has three separate and independent illuminations: White/Monochromatic/IR and UV Bright Field (BF) Illumination claim 1 , White/Monochromatic Dark Field (DF) illumination for diffusive illumination and divided into segments for independent operation claim 1 , UV LED located behind a dichroic mirror for Fluorescence claim 1 , and Bright Field (BF) multi spectral ...

Endoscopic apparatus for thermal distribution monitoring

Provided is an endoscopic apparatus for thermal distribution monitoring, and more particularly, an endoscopic apparatus for thermal distribution monitoring that is capable of providing a functional image in which various images such as a real image and a thermal image, are matched to one another. The endoscopic apparatus includes: an image collecting unit including a thermal image collecting unit collecting a thermal image from an image signal of an object and a real image collecting unit collecting a real image from the image signal of the object; a controller transmitting a control signal to the image collecting unit so as to transmit the image signal to one of the thermal image collecting unit and the real image collecting unit according to a preset period; and a display displaying the collected thermal image and real image.

METHOD OF OBTAINING BIOMETRIC INFORMATION BASED ON WEARING STATE AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE THEREOF

An electronic device for obtaining biological information and a method therefor are provided. The electronic device includes a biometric sensor module including a light emitting module including a first light emitting element having a first attribute and a second light emitting element having a second attribute and light receiving modules disposed adjacent to the light emitting modules, and at least one processor. The at least one processor is configured to determine a distance between the biometric sensor module and an external object based on at least reflected light reflected by collision with the external object among light output from the light emitting module, select at least one of the first light emitting element or the second light emitting element based on the distance, and obtain biometric information about the external object using the selected light emitting element. 1. An electronic device comprising: a light emitting module comprising a first light emitting element having a first attribute and a second light emitting element having a second attribute, and', 'a light receiving module disposed adjacent to the light emitting module; and, 'a biometric sensor module including determine a distance between the biometric sensor module and an external object based on at least reflected light reflected by collision with the external object among light output from the light emitting module,', 'select at least one of the first light emitting element or the second light emitting element based on the distance, and', 'obtain biometric information about the external object using the selected light emitting element., 'at least one processor configured to2. The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein at least one of output intensity or an output wavelength of the first light emitting element and the second light emitting element have different attributes.3. The electronic device of claim 1 ,wherein the light receiving module comprises a first light receiving element and ...

SHORT-WAVE INFRARED SUPER-CONTINUUM LASERS FOR EARLY DETECTION OF DENTAL CARIES

A wearable device for use with a smart phone or tablet includes a measurement device having a plurality of LEDs generating a near-infrared input optical beam that measures physiological parameters. The measurement device includes lenses configured to receive and to deliver the input beam to skin which reflects the beam. The measurement device includes a reflective surface configured to receive and redirect the light from the skin, and a receiver configured to receive the reflected beam. The light source is configured to increase a signal-to-noise ratio of the input beam reflected from the skin by increasing the light intensity from the LEDs and modulation of the LEDs. The measurement device is configured to generate an output signal representing a non-invasive measurement on blood contained within the skin. The wearable device is configured to wirelessly communicate with the smart phone or tablet which receives and processes the output signal. 1. A wearable device for use with a smart phone or tablet , the wearable device comprising:a measurement device including a light source comprising a plurality of light emitting diodes for measuring one or more physiological parameters, the measurement device configured to generate an input optical beam with one or more optical wavelengths, wherein at least a portion of the one or more optical wavelengths is a near-infrared wavelength between 700 nanometers and 2500 nanometers;the measurement device comprising one or more lenses configured to receive and to deliver a portion of the input optical beam to a sample comprising skin or tissue, wherein the sample reflects at least a portion of the input optical beam delivered to the sample;the measurement device further comprising a reflective surface configured to receive and redirect at least a portion of light reflected from the sample;the measurement device further comprising a receiver configured to receive at least a portion of the input optical beam reflected from the sample; ...

MICROMETER SIZE MULTI-FUNCTIONAL PROBE FOR OCT AND ELECTRO-PHYSIOLOGICAL RECORDING

A device and method for guided insertion of microelectrodes into tissue, the device involving a flexible optical fiber for optical coherence tomography imaging, a metal layer coating the optical fiber for recording electrical signals and an outer insulation layer coating the metal layer along the optical fiber length, and the method involving inserting an optical fiber coated with a metal layer and further coated with an insulation layer into a tissue, collecting intraoperative image data through the optical fiber by optical coherence tomography, receiving the image data on a computer and displaying the image on a monitor, using the image data to determine a location in the tissue, receiving an electrical nerve signal through the metal layer, and measuring the electrical nerve signal on an electro-physiological recording system. 1. A surgical tool for recording an image of tissue during a medical procedure , comprising:a flexible optical fiber for imaging, having an optical fiber distal end, an optical fiber proximal end, and an optical fiber length extending from the optical fiber distal end to the optical fiber proximal end;an outer insulation coating surrounding the optical fiber length and having at least one portion; andone of a surgical pointer and a suction tool coupled with the at least one portion of the outer insulation coating,the flexible optical fiber configured to dynamically image the tissue using at least one of imaging contrast and electro-physiological recordings made thereof, andthe optical fiber length comprising a fused silica cladding and a germanium-doped silica core, andthe optical fiber length is split into an optical connector configured to couple with an optical coherence tomography system and into an electrical connector configured to couple with an electro-physiological recording system,whereby intraoperatively mapping the tissue is enhanced, andwhereby dynamically intraoperatively updating registration, using the imaging contrast is ...

DEVICE FOR REGISTERING AND FOR DESTROYING INDIVIDUAL TUMOR CELLS, TUMOR CELL CLUSTERS, AND MICROMETASTASES IN THE BLOODSTREAM

The present invention relates to a device for detecting individual tumor cells, tumor clusters and micro metastases in the circulatory system which are enriched with a photo-sensitive substance. It is the object of the invention to provide a device allowing both a secure diagnostic detection of individual tumor cells in the circulatory system of humans and mammals and their therapeutic elimination in situ. This task is solved by a device comprising a radiation source () with intravascular or extravascular excitation of the photo-sensitive substance, a detector () with intravascular or extravascular detection of a fluorescence and/or phosphorescence and/or luminescence radiation of the excited tumor cells and/or tumor clusters and/or micro metastases, a high sensitivity fluorescence spectrometer (), connected to said detector (), for detecting the emitted radiation, a computer () connected to said spectrometer () recording the received peaks of the emitted radiation as a function of time. 1. A device for detecting individual tumor cells , tumor clusters , and micro metastases in the circulatory system , which are enriched with a photo-sensitive substance , the device comprising{'b': 7', '11, 'a radiation source (, ) with intravascular or extravascular excitation of the photo-sensitive substance;'}{'b': 1', '12', '13, 'a detector (, , ) with intravascular or extravascular detection of a fluorescence and/or phosphorescence- and/or luminescence radiation of the excited tumor cells and/or tumor cell clusters and/or micro metastases;'}{'b': 5', '1', '12', '13, 'a high sensitivity fluorescence spectrometer (), connected to said detector (, , ), for detecting the radiation emitted; and'}{'b': 6', '5, 'a computer (), connected to said spectrometer (), for recording the received peaks of the radiation emitted as a function of time.'}211213. The device according to claim 1 , wherein said detector ( claim 1 , claim 1 , ) is a fiber optic cable.31121314. The device according to ...

ATHEROSCLEROTIC PLAQUE DETECTION

An apparatus detects atherosclerotic plaques. The apparatus includes an electronic processing device that determines a level of fluorescence sensed by a sensor at a second infrared wavelength in response to exposure of at least part of an artery to radiation at a first infrared wavelength and determines a fluorescence indicator using the level of fluorescence. The fluorescence indicator is indicative of the presence, absence or degree of an atherosclerotic plaque. 1. Apparatus for use in detecting atherosclerotic plaques , the apparatus comprising:(a) a radiation source configured to generate radiation at a first infrared wavelength and expose at least part of an artery to the radiation;(b) a sensor configured to sense radiation emitted from the at least part of the artery at a second infrared wavelength (i) determine a level of fluorescence sensed by the sensor at the second infrared wavelength in response to exposure of the at least part of the artery to the radiation at the first infrared wavelength; and,', '(ii) determine a fluorescence indicator using the level of fluorescence, the fluorescence indicator being indicative of the presence, absence or degree of an atherosclerotic plaque., '(c) an electronic processor configured to2. (canceled)3. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the radiation source includes a laser.4. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the sensor includes an infrared photodetector.5. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the apparatus includes optics for focusing radiation.6. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the apparatus includes a catheter including one or more optical fibers extending between proximal and distal ends claim 1 , the distal end being for insertion into an artery claim 1 , and the radiation source and sensing device being coupled to the proximal end.7. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the apparatus includes a bandpass filter.8. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first wavelength is at ...

Flexible Debulking Catheters with Imaging and Methods of Use and Manufacture

Catheters and methods for removing material from (or “debulking”) a body lumen while imaging the region comprised of the material are provided. The catheters can be used in body lumens, including but not limited to intravascular lumens such as coronary or peripheral arteries. The catheters include housings or other structures to mount or protect an imaging transducer. Generally, debulking catheters include a proximal portion, a distal portion having an opening, a cutting element which may be exposed through the opening to contact material in a body lumen and an imaging transducer with associated circuitry and display. The catheter debulks a body lumen when it is moved while the cutting element is in contact with the material in the lumen and the region comprised of the material is imaged before, after, or during catheter movement. 1. A catheter for deployment in a vessel comprising:a control handle;an elongate proximal segment having proximal and distal ends, the proximal end being connected to the control handle;a distal tip assembly having proximal and distal ends; and a housing having a proximal end portion comprising a first material, a distal end portion comprising a second material, and a body portion extending between the proximal and distal end portions, the body portion comprising a third material, the first and second materials being different from the third material, the proximal end portion being connected to the distal end of the elongate proximal segment, the distal end portion being connected to the proximal end of the distal tip assembly, the housing having a luminal wall with an inner surface defining a lumen, the luminal wall having at least one slot; anda transducer mounted at least partially within the lumen of the housing.2. The catheter of wherein an outer surface of the housing has at least one rib.3. The catheter of wherein the at least one longitudinally extending rib on the outer surface of the luminal wall is in the range of 5 to 8 ribs.4. ...

INTRAORAL SCANNER WITH DENTAL DIAGNOSTICS CAPABILITIES

Methods and apparatuses for generating a model of a subject's teeth. Described herein are intraoral scanning methods and apparatuses for generating a three-dimensional model of a subject's intraoral region (e.g., teeth) including both surface features and internal features. These methods and apparatuses may be used for identifying and evaluating lesions, caries and cracks in the teeth. Any of these methods and apparatuses may use minimum scattering coefficients and/or segmentation to form a volumetric model of the teeth. 1. A method for generating a three-dimensional (3D) volumetric model of a subject's teeth using an intraoral scanner , the method comprising:taking a plurality of images into the teeth using an infrared (IR) wavelength with the intraoral scanner as the intraoral scanner is moved over the teeth, so that multiple images of a same internal region of the teeth are imaged;determining, for each of the plurality of images into the teeth, a position of the intraoral scanner relative to the subject's teeth;using the position of the intraoral scanner to project a plurality of grid points corresponding to an inner volume of the patient's teeth on each of the plurality of images into the teeth;determining a scattering coefficient for the projected grid points from the plurality of images into the teeth; andforming the 3D volumetric model of the subject's teeth including internal features using the scattering coefficient for the projected grid points.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining the scatter coefficient for the projected grid points comprises determining the minimum scatter coefficient for each of the projected grid points.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the IR wavelength comprises a near-IR wavelength.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein forming the 3D volumetric model comprises including a model of the gums relative to the teeth.5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising capturing a 3D color model of the teeth as the intraoral scanner is ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR VITAL SIGNS MONITORING WITH EAR PIECE

A vital signs monitoring system, the system including: (a) an ear device including: a curved body adapted to a shape of an ear, an upper end, a lower end, two opposite facing sides, a first side adapted to be proximal a skull and a second side adapted to be proximal an earlobe, the ear device including: (i) a temperature sensor adapted to sense a body temperature from a depression between a lower jawbone and skull; and (b) a control system, including a processor and a memory, configured and operable to control operation of the ear device, to collect signals received from at least one sensor including the temperature sensor, to process the signals to provide medically significant results. 1. A vital signs monitoring system , the system comprising:(a) an ear device including: a curved body adapted to a shape of an ear, an upper end, a lower end, two opposite facing sides, a first side adapted to be proximal a skull and a second side adapted to be proximal an earlobe, said ear device comprising: (i) a temperature sensor adapted to sense a body temperature from a depression between a lower jawbone and skull; and(b) a control system, comprising a processor and a memory, configured and operable to control operation of said ear device, to collect signals received from at least one sensor including said temperature sensor, to process said signals to provide medically significant results.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein said temperature sensor is an infra red (IR) sensor configured to measure IR radiation at said depression claim 1 , said IR radiation emitted from a carotid artery.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein said temperature sensor includes a thermistor.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein said thermistor is encased in a casing claim 3 , insulated claim 3 , and held in place by a thermally conductive adhesive claim 3 , said casing having a thermally conductive surface adapted to abut said depression.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein said ear device further comprises ...

SEMICONDUCTOR SOURCE BASED NEAR INFRARED MEASUREMENT DEVICE WITH IMPROVED SIGNAL-TO-NOISE RATIO

A measurement system is provided with a light source that is configured to increase signal-to-noise ratio by increasing a light intensity from at least one of a plurality of semiconductor sources. An apparatus to receive a portion of the output optical beam, and deliver an analysis output beam to a sample. A receiver to: receive and process at least a portion of the analysis output beam reflected or transmitted from the sample, generate an output signal, and synchronize to the light source. A smart phone or tablet to: receive and process at least a portion of the output signal, store and display the processed output signal, and transmit at least a portion of the processed output signal. A cloud to: receive an output status comprising the at least a portion of the processed output signal, process the received output status to generate processed data, and store the processed data. 1. A measurement system comprising:a light source comprising a plurality of semiconductor sources that are configured to generate an output optical beam with one or more optical wavelengths, the light source configured to increase signal-to-noise ratio by increasing a light intensity from at least one of the plurality of semiconductor sources; receive a portion of the output optical beam, and', 'deliver an analysis output beam to a sample;, 'an apparatus configured to receive and process at least a portion of the analysis output beam reflected or transmitted from the sample,', 'generate an output signal,', 'synchronize to the light source,', 'capture light while the semiconductor sources are off and convert the captured light into a first signal,', 'capture light while at least one of the semiconductor sources is on and convert the captured light into a second signal, the captured light including at least a part of the at least a portion of the analysis output beam reflected or transmitted from the sample, and', 'the measurement system further configured to improve the signal-to-noise ratio ...

Detecting oral temperature using thermal camera

A method, system, and computer product for detecting an oral temperature for a human include capturing a thermal image for a human using a camera having a thermal image sensor, detecting a face region of the human from the thermal image, detecting a mouth region on the face region, detecting an open mouth region on the mouth region, detecting a degree of mouth openness on the detected open mouth region, determining that the degree of mouth openness meets a predetermined criterion, and detecting the oral temperature, responsive to determining that the degree of mouth openness meets the predetermined criterion.

Imaging Catheter

An intraluminal imaging catheter comprises an outer sheath of material that is efficiently transmissive of near infrared light, a guidewire lumen section extending distally from a distal end of the outer sheath, a terminal length section of the outer sheath extending proximally from the guidewire lumen section, a cable longitudinally and rotatably disposed lengthwise within the outer sheath and having an imaging tip located at its distal end including optical components for transmitting and receiving near infrared light, wherein the cable is longitudinally extendable to position the imaging tip at the terminal length section of the outer sheath, and reinforcement means for structurally reinforcing the terminal length section of the outer sheath against transverse bending or kinking.

ABLATION AND TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENT DEVICES

A temperature measurement probe for a patient is provided. The probe includes a sensor assembly and produces a temperature map comprising temperature information for multiple patient locations. 1. A temperature measurement apparatus for a patient , the apparatus comprising:a transmission conduit configured to rotate and translate relative to collect infrared energy from a tissue surface;at least one infrared fiber arranged within the transmission conduit and configured transmit infrared signals corresponding to the collected infrared energy; anda sensor assembly configured to process the infrared signals to calculate a temperature of the tissue surface.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the tissue surface is an esophagus of a patient claim 1 , and the transmission conduit is configured to rotate 360° to measure an internal circumference of the tissue surface of the esophagus.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the transmission conduit is configured to rotate and translate in a reciprocating motion.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the transmission conduit is configured to translate and rotate in the reciprocating motion to collect the infrared energy across an area of the tissue surface and the sensor assembly is configured to combine the infrared signals collected across the area of the tissue surface and produce a temperature map indicating the temperature within the area of the tissue surface.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the transmission conduit includes a lens configured to direct the infrared energy from the tissue surface toward the at least one infrared fiber.6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the at least one infrared fiber is configured to remain stationary relative to the rotating and translation transmission conduit.7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the at least one infrared fiber includes an infrared fiber.8. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the sensor assembly is configured to continuously process the infrared signals to ...

Method of Using an Imaging Catheter with a Reinforced Section

A method of imaging a vessel with a catheter includes positioning an imaging tip in a reinforced terminal section of an outer sheath of the catheter, inserting the catheter into a vessel, and performing near infrared spectroscopy of the vessel by retracting the imaging tip to a retracted position proximally spaced from the reinforced terminal section of the outer sheath, transmitting near infrared light from the imaging tip to the vessel wall via the outer sheath, and collecting near infrared light from the vessel wall at the imaging tip via the outer sheath. Transmitting and collecting may be performed after retracting the cable and while the imaging tip is rotated and translated proximally from the retracted position along the outer sheath. Ultrasound energy may be transmitted to the vessel from a transducer on the imaging tip and received from the vessel at the transducer. 1. A method of imaging a vessel with a catheter including an outer sheath made of a material that is transmissive of near infrared light , a guidewire lumen section extending distally from a distal end of the outer sheath , a cable longitudinally and rotatably disposed lengthwise within the outer sheath , and an imaging tip located at a distal end of the cable and including optical components for transmitting and receiving near infrared light , the method comprising the steps of:positioning the imaging tip in a reinforced terminal section of the outer sheath between the guidewire lumen section and an unreinforced main section of the outer sheath;inserting the catheter into a vessel using a guidewire that is threaded through the guidewire lumen section; andperforming near infrared spectroscopy of the vessel by:retracting the cable to move the imaging tip to a retracted position in the main section of the sheath proximally spaced from the terminal section of the sheath;transmitting near infrared light from the imaging tip to the vessel wall via the outer sheath; andcollecting near infrared light ...

Quantitative tissue property mapping for real time tumor detection and interventional guidance

The present invention is directed to a method for real-time characterization of spatially-resolved tissue optical properties using OCT/LCI. Imaging data are acquired, processed, displayed and stored in real-time. The resultant tissue optical properties are then used to determine the diagnostic threshold and to determine the OCT/LCI detection sensitivity and specificity. Color-coded optical property maps are constructed to provide direct visual cues for surgeons to differentiate tumor versus non-tumor tissue. These optical property maps can be overlaid with the structural imaging data and/or Doppler results for efficient data display. Finally, the imaging system can also be integrated with existing systems such as tracking and surgical microscopes. An aiming beam is generally provided for interventional guidance. For intraoperative use, a cap/spacer may also be provided to maintain the working distance of the probe, and also to provide biopsy capabilities. The method is usable for research and clinical diagnosis and/or interventional guidance.

Probe with a Removable Tip

A probe, such as a spectroscopic probe, for enabling a fluid or tissue sample to be tested in situ. The probe includes a conduit, such as a hypodermic needle, that can be inserted into a test subject and a wave coupling arranged to direct electromagnetic radiation, such as light, from an energy source to the sample and/or from the sample to a receiver for analysis. The receiver may comprise a Raman spectroscope. The probe may include a carriage that can be used to move at least some of the optical coupling towards and away from the insertion tip of the conduit. The probe may include a pressure modifier that can be used to draw fluid into or expel fluid from the conduit. 1. A Raman spectroscopy probe comprising:a body portion having a body coupling face and one or more first coupling elements;a tip portion having a tip coupling face and one or more second coupling elements, the first coupling elements being configured to engage with the second coupling elements when the body coupling face is adjacent the tip coupling face to removably couple the tip portion of the probe to the body portion of the probe;an elongate, hollow needle having a proximal end attached to the tip portion of the probe and a distal end shaped for piercing human tissue, the needle comprising a first opening at the proximal end and a second opening at the distal end; a body link section mounted in or on the body portion of the probe, the body link section having a light input for optically coupling to the light source and an end defining a first optical interface; and', 'a tip link section mounted in or on the tip portion of the probe, the tip link section having a first end defining a second optical interface and a second end defining a measurement end via which light is emitted and collected, the first and second optical interfaces being arranged to provide optical communication between the body link section and the tip link section of the optical link when the tip portion of the probe is ...

Intravascular Imaging System with Force Error Detection and Remediation

An intravascular imaging system includes a catheter with an elongate outer sheath and a torque cable axially translatable and rotatable in the elongate outer sheath, a pullback and rotation unit for axially translating and rotating the torque cable, a sensor configured to provide an output indicative of an axial force exerted by the torque cable on a rotor in the pullback and rotation unit, and a controller configured to cause the pullback and rotation unit to operate in a remedial mode if the output exceeds a predetermined threshold.

FAT TISSUE OBSERVATION METHOD

A fat tissue observation method includes: a process A of applying an optical clearing agent to fat tissue within a body; a process B of heating the fat tissue to reduce a first refractive index of the fat tissue and put the first refractive index close to a second refractive index of the optical clearing agent; and a process C of observing an inside of the fat tissue that the optical clearing agent permeates. 1. A fat tissue observation method comprising:a process A of applying an optical clearing agent to fat tissue within a body;a process B of heating the fat tissue to reduce a first refractive index of the fat tissue and put the first refractive index close to a second refractive index of the optical clearing agent; anda process C of observing an inside of the fat tissue that the optical clearing agent permeates.2. The fat tissue observation method according to claim 1 , further comprising:a process D of heating the optical clearing agent to a predetermined temperature.3. The fat tissue observation method according to claim 2 ,wherein the process D is performed before the process A.4. The fat tissue observation method according to claim 1 ,wherein the process A has the process D of heating the optical clearing agent to a predetermined temperature, andwherein the optical clearing agent is heated to the predetermined temperature by a heating unit provided at a tip portion of an optical clearing agent supply path in which the optical clearing agent is applied to the fat tissue, and the heated optical clearing agent is applied to the fat tissue.5. The fat tissue observation method according to claim 1 ,wherein in the process B,a temperature of the fat tissue to which the optical clearing agent is applied is measured, anda temperature of the optical clearing agent is controlled so that the difference between the temperature of the fat tissue and a predetermined target temperature becomes small. This application is a continuation application based on a PCT Patent ...

VISUALIZATION OF HEART WALL TISSUE

Various aspects of the instant disclosure are directed to imaging tissue. As may be implemented in accordance with one or more embodiments, aspects of the present disclosure are directed to apparatuses and methods involving the following. A light source includes an array of light emitters that illuminate a tissue region of a heart wall with light at different wavelength ranges. A light collector collects multispectral images including respective images collected at each of the different wavelength ranges at which the tissue region is illuminated. A catheter positions the light source and light collector proximate the tissue region of the heart wall for respectively illuminating the tissue region and collecting the multispectral images. A display circuit collects and displays one or more images depicting a condition of the health of heart wall tissue, based on the respective images collected at the different ones of the wavelength ranges. 1. An apparatus comprising:a light source including an array of light emitters configured and arranged to illuminate a tissue region of a heart wall with light at a plurality of different wavelength ranges;a light collector configured and arranged to collect a plurality of multispectral images including respective images collected at each of the different wavelength ranges at which the tissue region is illuminated by the light source;a catheter configured and arranged with the light source and the light collector to position the light source and light collector proximate the tissue region of the heart wall for respectively illuminating the tissue region and collecting the multispectral images; anda display circuit configured and arranged to collect and display at least one image depicting a condition of the health of the heart wall tissue region, based on the respective images collected at the different ones of the wavelength ranges.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the display circuit is configured and arranged with the ...

IMAGING SYSTEM FOR COMBINED FULL-COLOR REFLECTANCE AND NEAR-INFRARED IMAGING

An imaging system for acquisition of NIR and full-color images includes a light source providing visible light and NIR light to an area under observation, such as living tissue, a camera having one or more image sensors configured to separately detect blue reflectance light, green reflectance light, and combined red reflectance light/detected NIR light returned from the area under observation. A controller in signal communication with the light source and the camera is configured to control the light source to continuously illuminate area under observation with temporally continuous blue/green illumination light and with red illumination light and NIR excitation light. At least one of the red illumination light and NIR excitation light are switched on and off periodically in synchronism with the acquisition of red and NIR light images in the camera. 1. A method for acquisition of NIR and full-color images , comprising the steps of:continuously illuminating an area under observation with blue/green light,illuminating the area under observation with red light and NIR light, wherein at least one of the red light and NIR light are switched on and off periodically,directing blue and green reflectance light and combined red reflectance light/detected NIR light to one or more sensors configured to separately detect the blue reflectance light, the green reflectance light, and the red reflectance light/detected NIR light, wherein the red reflectance light/detected NIR light is detected in synchronism with the switched red light and NIR light,determining from image signals of the combined red reflectance light/detected NIR light separately the red reflectance light spectral component and the detected NIR light spectral component,displaying a full-color image of the area under observation from the blue and green reflectance light and the separately determined red light spectral component, anddisplaying an NIR image from the detected NIR light spectral component.2. The method ...

Disposable ear probe cover for the same, and ear probe cover set

A disposable ear probe cover includes a light-transmissive cover body, a flange and a spacer member. The flange is formed on the light-transmissive cover body to surround an opening end of the light-transmissive cover. The spacer member is formed on the light-transmissive cover body. Therefore, when the disposable ear probe cover is sleeved into another disposable ear probe cover which is identical to the disposable ear probe cover, the spacer member of the disposable ear probe cover supports the other disposable ear probe cover so that a void gap is defined between the flange of the disposable ear probe cover and another flange of the another disposable ear probe cover.

CALIBRATION FOR OCT-NIRAF MULTIMODALITY PROBE

A multimodality system includes first and second modalities, a catheter, and a processor. The catheter collects fluorescent light from a plurality of locations of a sample which has been irradiated with excitation light of the second modality; a detector detects intensity of the fluorescent light received from the plurality of locations as a function of an angle α formed between the normal to the sample surface and the optical axis of the excitation light. A processor calculates the angle α at each of the plurality of locations based on radiation of the first modality incident on the sample, and corrects the intensity of the detected fluorescent light using a calibration factor g(α). The calibration factor g(α) is a function of the angle α calculated at two or more of the plurality of locations. The angle α is composed of a transversal angle αand an axial angle α. 1. An apparatus , comprising: 'the catheter configured to direct a radiation of first wavelength and a radiation of second wavelength from its distal end thereof towards a sample along a line transverse to the axis, and configured to collect at its distal end thereof a radiation of third wavelength from a plurality of locations of the sample;', 'a catheter having a proximal end and a distal end arranged along an axis, the catheter having one or more optical channels configured to transmit radiation of at least three different wavelengths therethrough,'}a detector configured to detect intensity of the collected radiation of third wavelength as a function of an angle α formed at each of the plurality of locations between the normal to the sample surface and an optical axis of the radiation incident on the sample; anda processor configured to calculate the angle α at each of the plurality of locations based on the radiation incident on the sample, and to adjust the intensity of the radiation of third wavelength detected by the detector using a calibration factor g(α),wherein the calibration factor g(α) is ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR CORRECTIVE GUIDANCE OF EATING BEHAVIOR AFTER WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY

Apparatuses and methods for corrective guidance of eating behavior of a patient equipped with a gastric restriction device. The apparatus provides continuous monitoring or one or more parameters related to food passing through the gastric restriction device. Each monitored parameter is processed to provide a visual indication of the current eating behavior. The visual indication is used as input to the patient or a caregiver to modify the eating behavior. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes an emergency relief mechanism that automatically relieves excess pressure developing in the gastric restriction device. In some embodiments, the apparatus is enabled to deliver an appetite suppressant to modify the eating behavior. 1. An apparatus for data collection and interpretation of eating behavior patterns of a patient equipped with a gastric restriction apparatus (GRA) comprising:a) monitoring means comprising an NIR source and a near infrared detector for monitoring at least one physical parameter directly related to the food consumed; said food is characterized by said at least one physical parameter; andb) an intra-corporal emergency relief mechanism used to automatically relieve pressure developing due to said food currently passing through the GRA;wherein said at least one physical parameter comprises nutrient caloric value and optionally at least one physical parameter is selected from the group consisting of viscosity of a bolus of said food, density of a bolus of said food, quantity of a bolus of said food, the time of passage of a bolus of said food, interval between a pair of boluses of said food, duration of a meal, and a pressure applied onto said GRA by said bolus of said food.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said emergency relief mechanism includes a relief valve which is activated by a pressure input provided by said monitoring means.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said at least one physical parameter is pressure applied onto said GRA by ...