Abstract: An apparatus for lowering the temperature of skin on a patient during treatment applying electromagnetic energy to the skin comprising a window of a first thermally conductive material through which electromagnetic energy can pass for placement against the epidermis of the skin. A reservoir of coolant is spaced from an edge of the window. A non-flowing second thermally conductive material connects the window and the reservoir to transfer heat from the window to the coolant in the reservoir.

Abstract: An endoscopic device having a handle assembly and a catheter assembly is disclosed. The catheter assembly carries a viewing conduit which cooperates with an eyepiece on the handle assembly for viewing in a patient's body cavity. The catheter assembly is preferably rotatably and removably mounted on the handle assembly. Also disclosed is a coupling unit which, together with the catheter assembly, forms an endoscopic camera device.

Abstract: A medical device for applying localized heat to a portion of a patient's body is disclosed. Generally, the device includes a light transmitting conduit and a heat generating element which converts transmitted light into heat. A suitable exterior tube can also be provided for guidance, strength and delivery of fluids. The medical device can be used to cauterize or destroy tissue, or alter or remove deposits from lumens. The medical device can also serve as part of a system which provides the light and measures the temperature of the element.

Abstract: An endoscopic device is disclosed which provides for unobstructed viewing within a body space of a patient. The endoscopic device includes a tube carrying a light transmitting system with a balloon extending over the system. The balloon can be expanded and the interior of the body space inspected or irradicated with a laser beam through the balloon.

Abstract: A method for providing an oxygen bearing liquid to a blood vessel during the performance of a medical procedure is disclosed. In one preferred embodiment the blood flow is temporarily occluded, a substantially clear oxygen bearing liquid is introduced into the blood vessel and the inside of the blood vessel is inspected through a viewing system and treated with laser irradiation.

Abstract: A dual balloon catheter device is provided with two spaced and expandable balloons for occluding a segment of a blood vessel. The device also includes a first channel for flushing the occluded segment, an optic system for use in the segment, and a second channel for introducing fluid into the blood vessel distally of the device.

Abstract: A fiber optic microcatheter device is provided with a conduit directing system to tilt the distal end of an internal conduit with respect to an external tube held in a lumen by expanding the diameter of an elastic zone on the external tube. Within the internal conduit are viewing and illumination fiber optic bundles which permit viewing within the lumen. A laser light transmitting fiber within the internal conduit may be aimed at a site within the lumen by tilting the distal end of the internal conduit. Also provided are tubes for flushing and vacuum to provide clear viewing within the lumen and to remove debris.