Light Application Patents (Class 606/2)
  • Patent number: 8273077
    Abstract: Disclosed is a computer-implemented method for correcting refractive errors in a living eye using a laser vision correction system that involves first calculating an amount of sphere based on preoperative manifest refraction and higher order aberrations data associated with the eye, and then correcting for the calculated amount of sphere by ablating at least a portion of the eye. The preoperative manifest refraction may include preoperative manifest sphere, preoperative spherical equivalent, regular astigmatism, and oblique astigmatism, and the preoperative higher-order aberrations may include 4th-order spherical and 3rd root mean square. Other factors may also be used to adjust the calculated amount of sphere. A device readable medium for storing the calculation and instructions for operating a laser vision correction system for practicing the method is also disclosed, as is a method of treating refractive errors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: University of Rochester
    Inventors: Scott MacRae, Manoj Subbaram Venkiteshwar
  • Patent number: 8273046
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing light therapy traction to a patient. A light therapy device and a traction mechanism provide concurrent, alternating and/or repetitive treatment to a patient. The light therapy device includes one or more light sources configured to deliver light to a patient. The traction mechanism is configured to provide selective separation to a particular location the patient's body, such as a location of the patient's vertebrae. In some embodiments, the light therapy and traction are performed simultaneously. In other embodiments, the light therapy and lumbar traction are performed in treatment cycles to the patient. Embodiments of the present invention embrace the application of light therapy prior to, during, and/or after a cervical and/or lumbar traction treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Dynatronics Corporation
    Inventors: Jay Walther, Scott Davis, Ian Brown, Scott Mabey, Chris Spencer, Larry Beardall, Gary Whatcott
  • Patent number: 8267922
    Abstract: A phototherapy light device for directing light onto an infant. The phototherapy light device has a base containing an illumination source and a gooseneck type of elongated neck that extends outwardly from the base and has a distal end adapted to be positioned to direct the light onto the infant. An optical fiber transmits the light from the illumination source to the distal end through the optical fiber where the light is passed through a light emanating device located at the distal end of the elongated neck. The elongated neck has two flexible sections, one of which has two coaxial springs to provide flexibility in positioning as well as to impart sufficient strength and rigidity to the elongated neck. The dual spring concept provides a system having reduced stresses while creating a double fault structural system without compromising the flexibility of the elongated neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Colin G. Hodge, Michael H. Mackin
  • Patent number: 8257416
    Abstract: According to various aspects, exemplary embodiments are provided of therapeutic devices and methods for applying therapy. In one exemplary embodiment, a therapeutic device generally includes one or more light sources for emitting therapeutic light. In some embodiments, the therapeutic device can also include means for applying hot therapy and/or cold therapy to a user's body when the therapeutic device is applied to the user's body. As other examples, various embodiments of therapeutic devices can include massagers and/or adhesive bandage strips for attaching the lighted therapeutic device to the user's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: Carl R. VanderSchuit
  • Patent number: 8251984
    Abstract: An improved dental laser system includes a DC power section that rectifies its AC electrical input energy in a format suitable for both CW and pulsed operation, an RF power supply operating in a range of about 40 to 125 MHz and configured for both CW and high peak power pulsing operation, a sealed-off, RF excited CO2 waveguide or slab resonator laser filled to a gas at a pressure between about 260 to 600 Torr (or about 34,700-80,000 Pa), and a beam delivery system to steer the beam from the output of the laser to the mouth, such as the patient's mouth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Convergent Dental, Inc.
    Inventor: Nathan Monty
  • Patent number: 8251982
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for applying laser energy for therapeutic purposes (e.g., relief of pain and/or inflammation in tissues) are disclosed. The synchronization of two spatially overlapping energy forms having closely positioned emission axes and particular emission modalities can in many cases provide strengthened or even synergistic effects in the alleviation or treatment of multiple of acute and/or chronic conditions (e.g., pain and inflammation) afflicting a given tissue. The laser energy forms are characterized in terms of their power levels, activation times, activation periods, pulse durations, pulse periods, wavelengths, and other identified characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: ASA s.r.l.
    Inventors: Lucio Zaghetto, Roberto Marchesini
  • Patent number: 8251983
    Abstract: A laser tissue fusion device is optimized for particular surgical applications to join tissue layers. The device has two opposed arms that engage and disengage to clamp and release layers of tissue therebetween. The distal end of the first arm is disposed opposite the distal end of the second arm. A laser energy source generates therapeutic laser energy is either integrated within the device is a separate unit. An energy pathway transmits the laser energy to the distal end of the first arm to deliver the laser energy to tissue layers clamped between the distal ends of the arms. An actuator decreases the separation distance between the distal ends of the arms to clamp the tissue layers and activates the laser energy source upon engagement. The laser energy source delivers a burst of energy at a predetermined wavelength for a predetermined period of time sufficient to spot weld the tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of Colorado, A Body Corporate
    Inventors: Michael Larson, Jesse McClure, Luke Hooper
  • Publication number: 20120215207
    Abstract: A system and method are provided that are capable of selectively treating a vein using photothermolysis techniques, where an electromagnetic radiation is applied to tissue containing the vein. The radiation can be selected so that it may be more effectively absorbed by veins as compared to arteries. Thus, unwanted thermal damage to arteries in the vicinity of the vein being treated can be reduced or avoided. The radiation can have a frequency of approximately 654 nm, which can provide a ratio of absorption by veins to absorption by arteries of about 3.7. Other wavelengths near 654 nm may be provided, for example, which can have an absorption ratio greater than, e.g., about 3.3 to 3.6.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: THE GENERAL HOSPITAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Richard R. Anderson, Iris Redar Rubin, William A. Farinelli
  • Patent number: 8246613
    Abstract: A method for the treatment of skin including the steps of determining the skin depth for energy absorption necessary for treatment; and generating a spot size for energy impinging on the skin to provide a desired amount of energy to the desired depth for treatment. In one embodiment the selected spot size has a small diameter. In another embodiment the spot diameter is narrower than the spacing between adjacent hairs on the skin. In another aspect the invention relates to an apparatus for the treatment of skin including a source of energy; and a means for selecting a spot size for energy from the source impinging on the skin to provide a desired amount of energy to a desired depth for treatment. In another embodiment the apparatus includes an interlock to prevent the laser from producing light unless the source is positioned to irradiate only the skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Shaser, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Dover, Victor Lazarev, Daniel Lawrence Roth
  • Patent number: 8246666
    Abstract: A phototherapy garment including a form-fitting bodysuit having a shell made from a stretchable, washable material covering the arms, legs, and torso which provides phototherapeutic light via a layer of cross-woven side-glow optical fibers. The bodysuit has an adjustable fastening system along the arms, legs, and torso to allow for variable sizing and a snug fit. Light is transmitted into the fibers via a waterproof base unit that is detachably attached to a housing dock on the side of the bodysuit. The LEDs emit high-intensity light of a wavelength or wavelengths suitable for treatment of various medical conditions. Each wavelength is transmitted separately into a respective one of a series of cross-woven optical fibers. Optionally, a reflective liner within the bodysuit may redirect irradiation from the fibers back toward the skin so no energy is wasted. Another embodiment includes a transparent liner. The base unit includes a power supply that may includes a rechargeable battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Board of Trustees of the University of Arkansas
    Inventors: Tiffany J. Pressler, Robert E. McGehee, Jr., Jeffrey R. Kaiser
  • Patent number: 8249696
    Abstract: Various methods and devices are provided for navigating through bone. In one embodiment, a bone navigation device is provided and includes a bone penetrating member configured to be implanted in bone and having at least one optical waveguide extending therethrough. The optical waveguide is adapted to illuminate tissue surrounding the device and to receive reflected/transmitted light from the tissue to determine the optical characteristics of the tissue, thus facilitating navigation through the tissue. At least one window can be formed in the bone penetrating member for allowing light from the at least one optical waveguide to illuminate the tissue, and for receiving the reflected light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: DePuy Spine, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Fisher, Paul Birkmeyer, John Riley Hawkins, Katherine Herard, Anwar Upal
  • Patent number: 8241272
    Abstract: A method of treating atrial fibrillation includes the step of positioning a distal portion of an ablation instrument in proximity to one or more pulmonary veins. The instrument has a hollow housing and an independently axially positionable energy emitter within the distal portion The energy emitter is configured and the distal portion is shaped such that a distance a beam of ablative energy travels from the energy emitter to the portion of the distal portion in contact with target tissue changes based on the energy emitter's location along the length of the instrument while the distal portion maintains its shape The energy emitter is a light emitting element and a beam-forming optical waveguide that receives light from the light emitting element. The waveguide projects onto the distal portion a hollow cone of radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: CardioFocus, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Arnold, Edward L. Sinofsky, Lincoln S. Baxter, Norman E. Farr
  • Publication number: 20120197242
    Abstract: Described is an applicator for RF, ultrasound, and light skin treatment. The applicator allows a protrusion of skin to be formed within a cavity and maintained for a desired time, enables good coupling of the treatment energy with the skin and avoids negative pressure adversely affecting the skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventor: Avner Rosenberg
  • Patent number: 8231610
    Abstract: A robotic surgical system includes a master manipulator, slave robotic units having a surgical instrument for performing a Minimal Invasive Surgery (MIS), and a control system for electrically associating the master manipulator with the slave robotic units. The slave robotic unit includes the driving mechanisms which are more compact than those of the conventional MIS system. In use, the existing surgical instruments used in the conventional MIS procedure can be applied to the slave robotic unit. Moreover, by using the pivotal mechanism of the driving mechanisms, a pivot point of the surgical instrument is allowed to be shifted with respect to an incision of a patient. So, the patient's tissues surrounding the surgical instrument are not excessively affected by the surgical instrument during the procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: National Cancer Center
    Inventors: Yung-Ho Jo, Dong-Jun Kim, Jaesoon Choi, Jae-Gahb Park, Young-Woo Kim, Sang-Jae Park
  • Publication number: 20120190912
    Abstract: The Energy Field and Target Correlation System automatically correlates the characteristics of target particles and a living organism to compute the characteristics of an energy field that is applied to a living organism to activate the target particles which are bound to or consumed or taken up by invasive agents in the living organism to produce detectable effects which can be used to image and treat the invasive agents. The energy field must be crafted to properly control the response and localize the extent of the illumination. The System automatically selects a set of energy field characteristics, including: field type, frequency, field strength, duration, field modulation, repetition frequency, beam size, and focal point. The determined energy field characteristics then are used to activate field generators to generate the desired energy field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: Actium BioSystems, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel B. McKenna, Karl M. Frantz, Marvin A. Ross, Andrew C. Updegrave, Michael E. Susedik
  • Patent number: 8221400
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for a refractive surgical treatment that uses a laser which produces a succession of laser pulses applied to a material region. The laser pulses irradicates the material region to be divided where the energy of the individual pulse in less than the energy required to produce the material division or cutting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: SIE Surgical Instruments Engineering AG
    Inventors: Holger Lubatschowski, Christian Rathjen
  • Patent number: 8216214
    Abstract: An assembly comprising a radiation source to generate a beam of radiation, a modulator for modulating the power of the beam of radiation as a function of the position of the beam within a field-of-view to maintain the beam's power within a desired exposure level as the beam scans the field-of-view, and a reflector oscillating in a sinusoidal manner to direct the beam of radiation onto a field-of-view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael P. Weir
  • Patent number: 8202307
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a phototherapy equipment, provided with at least one super LED of high luminous radiation, whose application is the treatment of hyperbilirubinemia, constituted by a luminous source formed by a split compact and elongated housing, provided, in its lower and front portion, with a cover containing internally adjustable lenses having one or more phototherapic sources with very high luminous irradiation at blue spectral range, more accurately in the wavelength of 450 nm, containing in the upper part a fan and electrically connected with a microprocessed circuit, which is able to be adjusted through control and programming actuators, having its functions monitored by means a display and a connector for any sensor, or digitized through a connection with a microcomputer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Inventors: Djalma Luiz Rodrigues, Orlando Rossi Filho
  • Patent number: 8182158
    Abstract: Localized strain is effectively eliminated in a shape sensing optical fiber where the fiber exits a link in a kinematic chain. In one aspect, the fiber is positioned in a channel within a fiber fixture portion of the link, and a surface of a lip of the channel is curved. The curved surface of the lip begins tangent to a wall of the channel and has a maximum radius of curvature that is less than the minimum bend radius that the fiber will experience during shape sensing. In another aspect, the fiber is positioned within a shape memory alloy tube that extends from the link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Intuitive Surgical Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Theodore W. Rogers, Giuseppe Prisco
  • Publication number: 20120116371
    Abstract: A gradual ramp-up of output power in a medical laser prevents rapid temperature rise at a fiber tip of a laser handpiece when residual contamination from a prior medical procedure remains on the fiber tip after an extended cooling period. The gradual ramp-up eliminates effects of an acoustic shock wave resulting from the rapid temperature rise to prevent damage to fiber and optical components in the laser device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Inventors: Dmitri Boutoussov, Ronald D. McKee
  • Patent number: 8172834
    Abstract: Illumination systems are described that can include one or more light sources, which can include LEDs, one or more lenses, and one or more optical fibers. A handheld, portable, and surgical intraocular illumination system is disclosed that is disposable, low-cost, and efficient. A surgeon can have direct control of turning the illuminator on and off and adjusting the intensity via a simple control ergonomically placed on the handpiece and/or voice activated control. A coupling is provided, such as through an endo-probe, which is coupled to the one or more light sources. A user input device can be included that is operable to transmit to a feedback controller a first signal based on a user-selected light intensity. The feedback controller can, in response to the first signal, transmit a second signal to the power source for altering the power provided by the power source to the illumination system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Doheny Eye Institute
    Inventors: Prashant R. Bhadri, Charles DeBoer, Matthew McCormick, Ralph Kerns, Aaron Barnes, Mark S. Humayun, Jaw-Chyng Lormen Lue
  • Patent number: 8168958
    Abstract: A method, composition and system respond to ionizing radiation to adjust biological activity. In some approaches the ionizing radiation is X-ray or extreme ultraviolet radiation that produces luminescent responses that induce biologically active responses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Inventors: Edward S. Boyden, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Edward K. Y. Jung, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Clarence T. Tegreene, Thomas A. Weaver, Charles Whitmer, Lowell L. Wood, Jr., Victoria Y. H. Wood
  • Patent number: 8162928
    Abstract: An eye surgical instrument, comprising at least one optical fiber for lighting of the interior of the eye, which at least one optical fiber, at a free end thereof, is provided with a light exit and with a stop situated at a distance from the free end, which stop defines an insertion part situated between the end and the stop, and at an other end is connectable to a light source, while the stop forms a separate element which is arranged so as to be slidable along the at least one fiber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: D.O.R.C. Dutch Ophthalmic Research Center (International) B.V.
    Inventors: Gerrit Jan Vijfvinkel, Claus Ferdinand Eckardt
  • Patent number: 8147484
    Abstract: A system and method that enable real-time optical measurements of tissue reflection spectral characteristics while performing ablation, involves the radiation of tissue and recapturing of light from the tissue to monitor changes in the reflected optical intensity as an indicator of steam formation in the tissue for prevention of steam pop. The system includes a catheter adapted to collect light reflected from tissue undergoing ablation, a detection component that identifies and separates constituent wavelengths of collected light, a quantification apparatus for generating measured light intensity data for the collected light, and a processor that analyses the measured light intensity data in relation to time. The system may include a graphical display and/or an audio output (e.g., speaker) that provide visual and/or audio alarm when the system infers formation of a steam pocket in the tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Biosense Webster, Inc.
    Inventors: Chad Allen Lieber, Ariel Garcia, Shiva Sharareh
  • Patent number: 8142713
    Abstract: A germicidal system and method for deactivating pathogens on the surface of a bodily extremity protected by a prophylactic covering substantially opaque to UV-C radiation. The device includes an enclosure having one or more openings through which the extremity can be inserted. The enclosure contains a radiation source configured to produce germicidal radiation having a wavelength of about 253.7 nm. The openings are configured relative to the radiation source such that the inserted extremity is in close proximity to the radiation source. The prophylactic covered extremity is preferably a gloved hand thereby sanitizing the surface of the glove. The extremity inserted is preferably exposed for a predetermined period of time to ensure a desired level of sanitization. Optionally, the device can include an orientation detector to determine the position of the user's hand and the spread of the user's fingers, and a surface detector to determine whether the user's hand is covered by a glove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Germgard Lighting, LLC
    Inventor: Eugene I. Gordon
  • Patent number: 8142422
    Abstract: Sinusitis, enlarged nasal turbinates, tumors, infections, hearing disorders, allergic conditions, facial fractures and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches and, in many cases, flexible catheters as opposed to instruments having rigid shafts. Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies, endoscopic studies and transillumination studies. Access and occluder devices may be used to establish fluid tight seals in the anterior or posterior nasal cavities/nasopharynx and to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g., scopes, guidewires, catheters, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for injecting diagnostic or therapeutic agents, devices for implanting devices such as stents, substance eluting devices, substance delivery implants, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Acclarent, Inc.
    Inventors: Joshua Makower, John Y. Chang
  • Publication number: 20120059254
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for utilizing light, including ultraviolet, optical and/or infrared, for detecting a body in an object, such as biomaterial or tissue, animal and/or human tissue. The body or object may be made fluorescent by the use of dyes or agent. Light is used to illuminate the body and object and the scattered light, fluorescent and/or emitted light, reflected light and transmitted light are detected and used to reconstruct the body and/or object using an iterative analysis. Further, the method and apparatus may be extended to endoscopic applications to make subcutaneous images of internal tissue above, on, in or beyond endoscopic pathways such as esophagus, stomach, colon, bronchial tubes and/or other openings, cavities and spaces animate or inanimate, and in man-made or industrial materials as carbon/resin structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Inventors: Wang Lifan, Carl R. Pennypacker, William Sheehan, James W. Gee, JR., Michael Piontek
  • Patent number: 8114067
    Abstract: A system for laser induced reduction of visual acuity suitable for crowd control and disabling of individuals uses an eye-safe pulsed IR source in which a laser beam is imaged onto the cornea of an individual to heat the cornea, thereby to cause defocusing and disorientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: BAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems Integration Inc.
    Inventors: Peter A. Ketteridge, Eric J. Gustafson, Evan P. Chicklis
  • Patent number: 8109924
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for dermatology treatment are provided which involve the use of continuous wave (CW) radiation, preheating of the treatment volume, precooling, cooling during treatment and post-treatment cooling of the epidermis above the treatment volume, various beam focusing techniques to reduce scattering and/or other techniques for reducing the cost and/or increasing the efficacy of optical radiation for use in hair removal and other dermatological treatments. A number of embodiments are included for achieving the various objectives indicated above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignees: Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc., The General Hospital Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory B. Altshuler, R. Rox Anderson
  • Patent number: 8101921
    Abstract: A method for inducing a controllable jet in a transparent liquid is disclosed. The method comprises providing a gas-liquid interface, providing a laser source and generating a beam comprising a sequence of laser pulses, and focusing the beam to a target location within the liquid at a predetermined distance from the gas-liquid interface and creating a plurality of cavitation bubbles, yielding a jet directed away from the gas-liquid interface. Other methods and apparatus are also described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss SMS Ltd
    Inventors: Sergey Oshemkov, Vladimir Dmitriev, Lev Dvorkin
  • Publication number: 20110313407
    Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure relate to the field of laser technology, specifically semiconductor lasers, and to novel biomedical applications of such lasers, including novel methods of photodynamic therapy. Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure include a semiconductor laser diode having an active region having a gain medium with one or more InGaAs/InAs quantum dot layers; and wherein the laser diode can be arranged in operation to emit laser light having a central wavelength within spectral range of wave lengths. The present embodiments further include a method of directly forming a reactive oxygen species (ROS), the method including exposing a medium having a potential source of ROS to a semiconductor laser diode, the semiconductor laser diode configured to emit laser light having a central wavelength within the spectral range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2011
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventors: Edik U. Rafailov, Svetlana Zolotovskaya, Sergei Sokolovski
  • Patent number: 8080047
    Abstract: A light therapy device for rhinitis treatment. The light therapy device includes a hollow tube body with a longitudinal axis, being dimensioned and configured to permit insertion into a nostril of a treatment subject. A light emitting diode package disposed within the hollow tube body includes a first LED chip as a red light source and a second LED chip as an infrared light source. The first LED chip and the second LED chip are at different plane substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Mesure Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chu Yih Yu
  • Publication number: 20110300504
    Abstract: Method and laser processing device to process tissue. In a general aspect, the method to process tissue may include applying a photosensitizer into an area surrounding a region of the tissue to be processed, and irradiating the region of the tissue to be processed with the pulsed processing laser beam, the laser beam emitting laser pulses with a temporal full width at half maximum in a range between about 100 femtosecond and about 1 nanosecond. In another general aspect, the laser processing device to process tissue may include a laser radiation source to provide a pulsed processing laser beam providing emitting laser pulses, a laser beam decoupling unit to decouple the laser beam towards a region of the tissue to be processed, and an output device to output a photosensitizer in a direction of an area surrounding the region of the tissue to be processed, the output device being connected to the decoupling unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicants: Lumera Laser GmbH
    Inventor: Anton KASENBACHER
  • Publication number: 20110288465
    Abstract: Cancer treatment is improved by performing fluorescence-guided surgery and cell killing mediated by fluorescent proteins individually or together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventors: Ming Zhao, Hiroyuki Kishimoto, Hiroaki Kimura
  • Patent number: 8057525
    Abstract: A beauty device includes a light irradiation section having a blue LED, a yellow LED, a red LED, and near infrared LED each of which emits light with a predetermined wavelength to a face A, and an oxygen supply section 2 that supplies oxygen to the face A.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Futek, Inc.
    Inventor: Shuhei Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20110251600
    Abstract: An ultrasonic applicator includes an ultrasonic converter accommodated within a converter housing, a first housing, and a second housing. A rear end portion of the first housing is located in the second housing and an inner end portion of the converter housing is located in the rear end portion of the first housing. A length of the rear end portion of the first housing is adjustable. An outer end portion of the converter housing is connected with the second housing via an elastic element, so that a restoring force may be applied on the converter housing by virtue of a movement of the converter housing relative to the second housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Applicant: STRYKER TRAUMA GMBH
    Inventors: Helge Giersch, Klaus Dorawa
  • Patent number: 8025659
    Abstract: Disclosed is a laser device for machining material, comprising a laser beam source which supplies pulsed laser radiation, and a variable deflection unit that introduces said laser radiation into the material at different, selectable points so as to create optical breakthroughs. The inventive laser device further comprises a pulse-selecting apparatus which modifies selected laser pulses of the pulsed laser radiation regarding at least one optical parameter in such a way that no more optical breakthroughs can be created using the modified laser pulses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss Meditec AG
    Inventors: Mark Bischoff, Dirk Mühlhoff, Mario Gerlach
  • Patent number: 8025661
    Abstract: A cardiac ablation instrument includes a catheter body and a tear-shaped balloon that is connected to the catheter body. The instrument further includes a radiant energy emitter that is axially movable within a central lumen of the catheter body. A radiant energy transparent body surrounds the energy emitter and includes a plurality of illumination fibers disposed circumferentially about the energy emitter. A detector communicates with a contact sensing element and is configured to determine an amount of at least one color component of the reflected light The amount of the at least one color component being indicative of contact between the balloon and a target tissue site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: CardioFocus, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Arnold, Edward L. Sinofsky, Lincoln S. Baxter, Norman E. Farr
  • Publication number: 20110218241
    Abstract: Epicatechins, Epicatechin Oligomers, or Thiolated Epicatechins are applied (A) directly to a genital wart in the form of a cream, ointment, paste or solution, (B) directly to the genital wart wherein such cream, ointment, paste or solution contains as an additional active ingredient a skin permeabilizing agent, (C) following electrosurgical resection or removal of the genital wart in such form of a cream, ointment, paste or solution, (D) following chemical resection or extirpation of the genital wart in such form, (E) following surgical resection or removal of the genital wart in such form, wherein said Epicatechins, Epicatechin Oligomers, or Thiolated Epicatechins both provide antiviral activity against multiple strains of human papilloma virus (HPV) and promote healing following resection polymers contained in a vehicle. Disclosed are the compositions, therapeutical kits containing such composition, methods of treatment using such composition, and methods of enhancing the stability of such composition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Applicant: CACAO BIO-TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel PRESTON, Randall B. MURPHY
  • Publication number: 20110213348
    Abstract: A method and a device for minimally invasive treatment of diseased deep and superficial venous valves are disclosed. Treatment seeks to repair/rejuvenate dysfunctional valve by reducing the circumference of dilated valve rings and by restoring their original shape and function using laser energy to make physical suture points and shrink collagen in selected points. Real time monitoring is by angioscopic view and endovenous echographic control. In a preferred embodiment, system comprises a specific catheter-like device for endovenous insertion that allows for real time view of energy emission and venous surface to be corrected. Catheter flexibility is such that viewing angle and direct energy emission can be oriented properly. Catheter can comprise channels for irrigation or for interchange of laser fibers according to desired irradiation pattern. A preferred embodiment of catheter device also comprises cuffs for temporary occlusion, by inflation and deflation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventors: Enrique Ferracani, Wolfgang Neuberger
  • Publication number: 20110184391
    Abstract: Prostate treatment using fluid stream to resect prostate tissue, thereby relieving symptoms of conditions such as BPH, prostatitis, and prostatic carcinoma. A device having a fluid delivery element is positioned within a lumen of the urethra within the prostate. A fluid stream is directed outwardly from the fluid delivery element toward a wall of the urethral lumen. The fluid delivery element is moved to scan the fluid stream over the wall to remove a volume of tissue surrounding the lumen. The fluid may be combined with therapeutically active substances or with substances that increase resection efficiency. Fluid force may be adjusted to provide selective tissue resection such that soft tissue is removed while harder tissue is left undamaged. In order to gain a working space within the urethra, another fluid may be introduced to insufflate the urethra in the region of treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Applicant: PROCEPT Corporation
    Inventors: Nikolai Aljuri, Ajit Nair, Paren Shah, Adam Nemeyer, Daniel Grupp
  • Publication number: 20110152744
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a modulator of vascular permeability using pulsed laser and a method for modulating vascular permeability using the same. More specifically, because the pulsed laser effectively induces vascular permeabilization, effectively delivers intravascular materials into tissues and minimizes insult to the tissues by the induced vascular permeabilization, and locally targets a subcutaneous tissue for noninvasive modulation due to its nonlinearity, it may be usefully used for modulation of permeability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: KOREA ADVANCED INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Chulhee CHOI, Myunghwan CHOI
  • Publication number: 20110137214
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating gland dysfunction caused by gland obstruction in order to restore the natural flow of secretion from the gland comprises the application of a combination of energy, suction, vibration, heat, aspiration, chemical agents and pharmacological agents to loosen and thereafter remove the obstructive material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: TEARSCIENCE, INC.
    Inventors: Donald R. Korb, Timothy R. Willis, Benjamin T. Gravely, Stephen M. Grenon
  • Patent number: 7947067
    Abstract: This invention is a scanning laser device with a universal carriage that holds any type of optical element. The carriage rotates about an axis that is substantially co-axial to the incident laser beam, thereby causing the laser energy passing through the optical element to sweep through a 360° circle. The preferred embodiment uses a rod lens as the optical element, resulting in a large circular beam spot. The device may utilize laser sources of various wavelengths and pulse frequencies, and multiple devices may be combined to scan an even larger area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Erchonia Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin Tucek, Steven C. Shanks, Lawrence Owens
  • Patent number: 7935107
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for dermatology treatment are provided which involve the use of continuous wave (CW) radiation, preheating of the treatment volume, precooling, cooling during treatment and post-treatment cooling of the epidermis above the treatment volume, various beam focusing techniques to reduce scattering and/or other techniques for reducing the cost and/or increasing the efficacy of optical radiation for use in hair removal and other dermatological treatments. A number of embodiments are included for achieving the various objectives indicated above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignees: Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc., The General Hospital Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory B. Altshuler, R. Rox Anderson
  • Publication number: 20110098689
    Abstract: An ultrasound forceps for sealing tissue is provided. The forceps includes one or more shaft members having an end effector assembly disposed at a distal end thereof. The end effector assembly includes opposing jaw members movable from a first position in spaced relation relative to another subsequent position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. One or both of the jaw members includes an ultrasound transducer coupled to an ultrasound generator adapted to provide an electrical signal to the ultrasound transducer to induce treatment pulses therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventors: William H. Nau, JR., Joe D. Sartor
  • Patent number: 7912539
    Abstract: A system for applying a polymer (hydrogel) to the inner surface of a vessel by photopolymerization includes a catheter having a first inflatable member and a guidewire having a second inflatable member. The catheter has an extended tip distal to the first inflatable member that includes multiple perfusion ports. A light emission coil is disposed on the extended tip with individual coil loops interspaced with the perfusion ports. In a method, the guidewire is delivered to a treatment site within a vessel. The catheter is delivered to the treatment site over the guidewire. The inflatable members are inflated to form an enclosed treatment space within the vessel. A photoinitiator is delivered to the enclosed treatment space. Excess photoinitiator is flushed from the treatment space, and a prepolymer is delivered. The prepolymer is cured by light delivered by the light emission coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Medtronic Vascular, Inc.
    Inventors: David Doty, Feridun Ozdil, Josiah Wilcox, Robret Murray, Prasad Kilari
  • Publication number: 20110059415
    Abstract: A method of laser machining biological tissue including the provision of a pulsed processing laser beam and the processing of tissue by radiation using the pulsed processing laser beam, wherein the processing laser beam has a wavelength of the laser pulses ranging between 700 nm and 1400 nm, a time duration of the laser pulses ranging between 5 ps and 100 ps, and an energy density of the laser pulses on the surface of the tissue ranging between 1.5 J/cm2 and 7.5 J/cm2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: Dr. Anton Kasenbacher and Lumera Laser GmbH
    Inventor: Anton Kasenbacher
  • Patent number: 7897181
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an agent for photodynamic therapy (PDT) containing porous silicon (PSi) and a method of quantitative measurement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced therefrom. Particularly, it is expected that the present invention will contribute to the development of cancer treatment without side effects by suggesting PSi, a safe and reliable new cancer drug that can destroy cancer cells through generating sufficient heat with little ROS produced if the PSi is used as nanobomb for a new PDT that kills cancer cells with heat or explosion. In addition, it is expected that the present invention will provide a reliable and reproducible method for quantitative measurement of a very small amount of ROS produced therefrom through an XRD analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Inha-Industry Partnership Institute
    Inventors: Chongmu Lee, Youngjoon Cho, Hojin Kim
  • Patent number: 7892224
    Abstract: A method for determining and representing possible entry and/or target areas for positioning catheters in an area on the basis of functional data and/or structural and/or anatomical data of the area, includes: indicating at least one entry area of the catheter or at least one target area of the catheter; determining at least one target area of the catheter based on the at least one indicated entry area of the catheter and taking into consideration specified catheter positioning guidelines and the functional data and/or structural and/or anatomical data of the area, or at least one entry area of the catheter based on the at least one indicated target area of the catheter and taking into consideration specified catheter positioning guidelines and the functional data and/or structural and/or anatomical data of the area; and representing the functional data and/or structural and/or anatomical data with the at least one indicated entry area and the at least one determined target area, or representing the functiona
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: BrainLAB AG
    Inventors: Andreas Hartlep, Christoph Pedain