Abstract: An instrument for removing an obstruction in an internal body channel comprises an elongated catheter body adapted for insertion into a body channel having a first lumen throughout its length. An elongated guide and laser transmission conduit extends through the lumen of said catheter body and is movable therein so that its distal end can be extendable beyond the distal end of the catheter body. The proximal end of the movable conduit is connected to a controlled source of laser energy. A treatment element is provided at the distal end of the catheter body for further reducing the channel obstruction following preliminary penetration thereof by the movable laser transmission conduit. The treatment element may be a fixed laser transmission conduit which terminates at the end of the catheter body or a dilation balloon near its distal end.

Abstract: Method and apparatus of irradiating a treatment area within a body includes introducing elongated flexible radiation transfer conduit (fiberoptic arrays) into the body cavity with the distal end thereof operatively opposite the treatment area. At the other end of the conduit there is photoelectrically sensed a particular optical characteristic of the treatment area (such as fluorescence) and as long as the particular optical characteristic is sensed there is periodically transmitted laser pulses via the conduit to the treatment site.

Abstract: Method and apparatus of irradiating a treatment area within a body includes introducing elongated flexible radiation transfer conduit (fiberoptic arrays) into the body cavity with the distal end thereof operatively opposite the treatment area. At the other end of the conduit there is photoelectrically sensed a particular optical characteristic of the treatment area (such as fluorescence) and as long as the particular optical characteristic is sensed there is periodically transmitted laser pulses via the conduit to the treatment site.