Abstract: Light sources are incorporated into a guidewire for enabling the ability to render light therapy be added to catheters that do not have that capability. In one exemplary embodiment, a solid guidewire includes a conductive core, and light sources are added to compartments formed in a distal end of the guidewire. In another exemplary embodiment, a light source array is included in a distal end of a hollow guidewire. A plurality of openings are formed into the walls of the hollow guidewire surrounding the array, enabling light to pass through the openings. Conductors extend from the array though the hollow center of the guidewire, to a proximal end of the hollow guidewire. The hollow guidewire can be coated with a conductive material, so that the coating on the guidewire serves as a conductor.

Abstract: Light generating devices for illuminating portions of vascular tissue to administer photodynamic therapy, and usable with, or including a distal protection device. A first device includes a hollow tip, a flushing lumen, a guidewire lumen, and at least one of a light source, and a hollow light transmissive shaft that is adapted to accommodate a light source. If desired, the device can include a balloon, so that a portion of a body lumen between the balloon and the distal protection device is isolated when the balloon is inflated. A second device includes inner and outer catheters, the outer catheter including a balloon, and the inner catheter including a light source encompassed by another balloon. Yet another device is a catheter having two balloons and a sleeve extending there between. Within the sleeve, the catheter includes a light source and an expanding member.

Abstract: Light generating devices for illuminating portions of vascular tissue to administer photodynamic therapy, and usable with, or including a distal protection device. A first device includes a hollow tip, a flushing lumen, a guidewire lumen, and at least one of a light source, and a hollow light transmissive shaft that is adapted to accommodate a light source. If desired, the device can include a balloon, so that a portion of a body lumen between the balloon and the distal protection device is isolated when the balloon is inflated. A second device includes inner and outer catheters, the outer catheter including a balloon, and the inner catheter including a light source encompassed by another balloon. Yet another device is a catheter having two balloons and a sleeve extending there between. Within the sleeve, the catheter includes a light source and an expanding member.