Abstract: An intubation device comprises an imaging conduit including an illumination conduit for delivering illumination to a distal end of the device and an image-receiving conduit for communicating images from the distal end of the device to the proximal end of the device. The device also comprises a flushing conduit for delivery of fluids and/or gases to the distal end of the device. The image conduit and the flushing conduit are attached at the distal end of the device. The distal end of the device can be manipulated by advancing the imaging conduit in an axial direction while maintaining the flushing conduit fixed in place. Furthermore, a length adjustment member is provided for adjusting the extent to which the distal end of the device extends beyond a distal end of an endotracheal tube which is inserted over the imaging and flushing conduits. The illuminating conduit and the image-receiving conduit terminate in separate ports at the distal end of the device.

Abstract: A novel method for reducing an arteriosclerotic lesion is disclosed in which the electromagnetic energy directed at the lesion is selectively absorbed by a lesion component, e.g. cholesterol. The resulting decomposition of said lesion component leads to reduction of the lesion with minimal risk of damage to blood constituents and adjacent healthy blood vessel tissue. Preferably, monochromatic electromagnetic energy is generated by a laser and is conducted to the vicinity of the lesion by at least one optical fiber.

Abstract: A fiber optic device for remote delivery of intense ultraviolet optical signals comprising an excimer laser source and an optical fiber. The output of the pulsed, transverse discharge, high pressure laser source is coupled to an articulating reflection mechanism which directs the pulsed laser output to an input end of the optical fiber. The optical fiber serves to transmit the light from the laser source to a remote location or target. The excimer laser further comprises a segmented first elongated laser electrode and a coextensive second laser electrode which is substantially solid. The discharge is stabilized by inductors connected to each segment of the first electrode and further by preionization electrodes located adjacent and coextensive with the second electrode. The preionization electrodes comprise a central conductor surrounded by a dielectric sleeve. The laser further comprises a closed gas system for the lasing medium gas.

Abstract: A device for conveying high energy electromagnetic radiation from a laser source to an optical fiber which comprises a sleeve having a proximal end and a distal end and being adapted to enclose a liquid which is transparent to said radiation, the distal end of said sleeve being adapted to be attached to the input end of the optical fiber; and a focussing lens attached to the proximal end of said sleeve said liquid having a refractive index which substantially matches the refractive index of the lens and of the optical fiber. A process for removing an obstruction by laser surgery using said device is also disclosed.