Abstract: A method for treating a patient includes inserting an endoscope into an intradural space of the patient via an interspace of a vertebral column of the patient; steering the endoscope along the intradural space to a location; and performing a medical procedure at the location using a working lumen of the endoscope.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed, for performing therapeutic or diagnostic procedures at a remote site. According to one embodiment, the methods include the use of a system including an introducer designed for transcervical insertion into the uterus. The introducer is constructed to include a fluid lumen, an instrument lumen, and a visualization lumen. The system may include a fluid source, which is coupled to the fluid lumen and is used to deliver a fluid to the uterus either for washing the uterus or for fluid distension of the uterus. The system additionally includes a tissue modifying device, such as a morcellator, and a distension device for distending the uterus and/or for maintaining the uterus in a distended state. The tissue modifying device and the distension device are alternately deliverable to the uterus through the instrument lumen. The system may further include a hysteroscope deliverable to the uterus through the visualization lumen.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the invention disclosed herein comprise a system of wearable devices that collectively allow for the continuous, non-invasive, measurement and monitoring of blood pressure, without the use of an inflatable cuff. The system incorporates: 1) An optical module, which is comprised of a coherent source of light, a semi-transparent hologram, optics for viewing the interference pattern developed between the illuminated hologram and arterial blood, a Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) array, and processing electronics with Bluetooth capability that facilitates digitization and wireless transmission of the fringe pattern to, 2) a personal digital assistant (PDA) that is worn on a waist belt. The PDA and associated software allow for continuous calculation and monitoring of real-time arterial blood pressure from the digitized fringe patterns received. The system further comprises 3) a personal computer (PC) with wireless capacity and connection to the internet.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods that utilize a speaker to impart motion to an optical fiber positioned within an imaging probe are provided. In some embodiments, an ophthalmic imaging apparatus comprises an optical probe having a handle sized and shaped for handheld grasping by a user; and a cannula coupled to the handle, the cannula sized and shaped for insertion into an eye to be treated; an optical fiber positioned at least partially within the optical probe, the optical fiber configured to receive an imaging light from an imaging light source and guide the imaging light to an optical element positioned within the cannula of the optical probe; and an actuator system configured to impart motion to the optical fiber, the actuator system including a speaker positioned within the optical probe.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods that utilize a mechanical structure, such as a lever arm or a flexure mechanism, and an electrically energizable member, such as an actuator, to impart motion to an optical fiber positioned within an imaging probe are provided. In some embodiments, an ophthalmic imaging probe can include a handle; a cannula coupled to the handle; an optical fiber positioned at least partially within the handle and the cannula, the optical fiber configured to receive an imaging light from an imaging light source and guide the imaging light to an optical element positioned within a distal portion of the cannula; and an actuator system configured to impart motion to the optical fiber, the actuator system including a mechanical structure and an electrically energizable member configured to selectively impart motion to the mechanical structure upon the electrically energizable member being electrically energized.

Abstract: A catheter having an internal advancing mechanism that can advance stiffening wires or other devices, has a catheter with a catheter body, a tip section distal the catheter body, a device extending through at least the catheter body, and a control handle proximal the catheter body, where the control handle has an advancing mechanism with a threaded member, an adjustment member, and a guided member to which the device is connected, and the advancing mechanism is configured to advance and retract the device along the catheter body as controlled by a user. Each of the threaded member and the adjustment member has a generally cylindrical configuration. The threaded member has an outer surface configured with a helical guide channel. The adjustment member is configured to guide the guided member to move within the helical guide channel to advance and retract the device. The adjustment member can be rotatable over the threaded member by the user to control advancement and retraction of the device.

Abstract: A scanning endoscope apparatus includes: a light source section that emits illuminating light; an optical fiber that guides and applies the illuminating light from a distal end, the illuminating light having directionality; a drive element and a scanning drive section that scan the distal end of the optical fiber; a light detecting section that detects light from a subject; a shutter and an intermittent light output control section that controls a light application period and an interruption period for the illuminating light; an extrinsic light component removal section that outputs a result of an average value of a plurality of light detection results obtained in the interruption period being subtracted from each of a plurality of light detection results obtained in the light application period; and an image processing section that forms image information for display, based on the result outputted by the extrinsic light component removal section.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method and system for mapping anatomical structures and marking them on an image to be printed on a substrate including the steps of inserting an imaging device into a surgical site, obtaining an image of a defect located in the surgical site from the imaging device, adjusting the image, transmitting the image to a printer, and printing the image on a substrate. The printed image may be a size directly proportional to the defect. The adjusting step may further include the steps of setting a minimum margin to be maintained between the perimeter of the defect and the perimeter of the substrate, selecting a shape and size of the substrate, and identifying at least one anatomical feature of the surgical site.

Abstract: An endoscope having two entry lenses, which are arranged spaced from each other and the fields of view of which overlap, and having guiding devices. The entry lenses are spaced so far apart from each other that the outer edges thereof protrude beyond the cross-sectional area of the guiding devices, and a lens displacing the axis beam is inserted between one entry lens and the guiding devices. A method for the use of the endoscope.

Abstract: Systems for visualizing cardiac tissue during an ablation procedure are provided. In general, the systems include an imaging module configured to measure absorbance data at first and second wavelengths wherein the ratio of these absorbance values identifies the nature of the tissue (e.g., lesion, de novo tissue, etc.). The imaging module can also include a video system having at least two chips with corresponding bandpass filters centered at the first and second target wavelengths. The system can also include a processor and/or video monitor for combining the images produced by the various chips, determining treated and non-treated tissue based on the ratio of absorbance values at the target wavelengths, and displaying images of the treatment area. Methods of visualizing cardiac treatment areas during ablation procedures are also provided herein.

Abstract: Medical apparatus includes an endoscope, which includes a distal end configured for insertion into a body cavity and which includes an imaging assembly, configured to capture and output an image of a region of the body cavity in proximity to the distal end. An energy source is configured to emit pulses of energy through an energy guide. A control unit is configured to process the image so as to identify a target mass in the body cavity and to verify that an aiming beam directed through the energy guide is incident on the target mass and, responsively to so verifying, to actuate the energy source to direct a pulse of the energy via the energy guide onto the target mass.

Abstract: An optical coherence tomography probe and laser combination device configured for real-time z-directional guidance of the incisional depth of a surgical procedure. It can be used alone or placed within the working channel of an endoscope. The device includes an OCT single mode fiber, and a laser fiber or laser hollow waveguide or electrical surgical wire positioned adjacent to the OCT single mode fiber. The single mode fiber is configured to move laterally when activated by an actuator to scan light data reflected from a sample that is positioned in front of a distal end of the device. The light data can be processed to generate a B-scan image. The device can collect data in real-time during lasing, or immediately prior to and following the cutting. The surgical tool, when coupled to a processor, can deactivate when the B-scan image identifies that the incision is within a predefined tolerance.

Abstract: A network based surgical system including a first medical device having a first network interface, a second medical device having a second network interface, a communications network over which the first medical device, through the first network interface, and the second medical device, through the second network interface, are communicable, wherein the first network interface and the second network interface employ the same network protocol for communicating over the communications network, and wherein the first network interface has a maximum throughput greater than a maximum throughput of the second network interface.

Abstract: Methods and percutaneous devices for assessing, and treating patients having sympathetically mediated disease, involving augmented peripheral chemoreflex and heightened sympathetic tone by reducing chemosensor input to the nervous system via percutaneous carotid body ablation.

Abstract: In a first aspect the invention is an endoscopic device in which the empty spaces between the plurality of tubes, wires, and cables are utilized as a channel that enables liquid or gas to flow from the handle section to the distal tip. In a second aspect the invention is a method of reducing the diameter of an endoscope device by utilizing the empty spaces between the plurality of tubes, wires, and cables as a channel that enables liquid or gas to flow from the handle section to the distal tip. In a third aspect the invention is a distal tip comprising a pattern of alternating grooves and lands on its outer surface and a cap that fits tightly over the lands. The tight fitting cap changes the grooves into closed channels through which liquid or gas can flow.

Abstract: A noninvasive treatment of uterine growths such as myomas (fibroids) and polyps is presented. Treatment involves carrying out diagnostic hysteroscopy and ultrasound procedures to detect, measure, and evaluate unwanted uterine growths; then inserting optical fiber into a hysteroscope, reaching target tissue with optical fiber and eliminating said tissue or shrinking it to a size/shape for easy mechanical removal. Finally, ultrasound imaging is used to confirm success of procedure. In one embodiment, optical fiber has an off-axis firing end but can be inserted inside a conventional hysteroscopy device. In another embodiment, a laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) fiber is used to treat myomas found on the outside of the uterus. A high energy laser is used that can emit at wavelengths easily absorbed by water and blood, such as 980 nm and 1470 nm. Procedure is fast and can be done in the physician's office with little or no anesthesia used.

Abstract: An optical fibre endoscopic probe used to deliver radiation, in particular laser radiation, during a surgical procedure. The configuration of components of the endoscopic probe in use is adjustable so as to direct the radiation which exits the fibre as desired. The present invention also relates to a device used to direct the exiting beam of radiation in such an endoscopic probe, which may in particular be used in a narrow probe channel, for example for prostate laser surgery, and to a method of surgical treatment using the endoscopic probe.

Abstract: The invention relates to an ingestible capsule and method for in vivo imaging and/or treatment of one or more diseased areas of interest within the gastrointestinal tract of an animal or human being.

Abstract: A passively flexible ureteroscope having a diameter of less than about 2.5 millimeters is provided. The ureteroscope may help overcome many of the problems associated with the prior art devices and methods for removing kidney stones. The ureteroscope includes an elongate member having a distal portion, a proximal portion, and an inner conduit that extends longitudinally between the proximal and distal portions. The elongate member is made from a passively flexible material that is capable of being inserted and directed through a patient's body cavity, such as the ureter, by manual direction and pressure so that minimal, if any, additional mechanical or steering mechanisms are present. An imaging device and light source are provided at the distal portion of the elongate member to allow for positioning the device with respect to the stone. A laser fiber can be directed through the conduit to destroy a targeted stone.

Abstract: An endoscope with a stereoscopic optical channel is held and positioned by a robotic surgical system. A capture unit captures (1) a visible first image and (2) a visible second image combined with a fluorescence second image from the light. An intelligent image processing system receives (1) the visible first image and (2) the visible second image combined with the fluorescence second image and generates at least one fluorescence image of a stereoscopic pair of fluorescence images and a visible second image. An augmented stereoscopic display system outputs a real-time stereoscopic image including a three-dimensional presentation including in one eye, a blend of the at least one fluorescence image of a stereoscopic pair of fluorescence images and one of the visible first and second images; and in the other eye, the other of the visible first and second images.

Abstract: An endoscope includes: a distal end rigid portion that configures a distal end portion of an insertion portion of an endoscope and has a through hole; an LED ceramic substrate including an LED light source mounted on a distal end side thereof, and arranged in the through hole so as to emit light from the through hole; an LED cable configured to be inserted in the insertion portion of the endoscope and to supply electric power to the LED light source; a ceramic cutout portion that configures a proximal end side of the LED ceramic substrate, and allows a conductive pattern for electrically connecting the LED light source and the LED cable to be exposed from inside the LED ceramic substrate and connected to the LED cable; and a reinforcement member having rigidity and fixed to the LED ceramic substrate and configured to cover the ceramic cutout portion.

Abstract: In general, in one aspect, the disclosure features a system that includes a flexible waveguide having a hollow core extending along a waveguide axis and a region surrounding the core, the region being configured to guide radiation from the CO2 laser along the waveguide axis from an input end to an output end of the waveguide. The system also includes a handpiece attached to the waveguide, wherein the handpiece allows an operator to control the orientation of the output end to direct the radiation to a target location of a patient and the handpiece includes a tip extending past the output end that provides a minimum standoff distance between the output end and the target location.

Abstract: A dual port ablation cannula kit includes a trocar and a hollow shaft defining a longitudinal lumen. The shaft has a proximal segment and a distal segment, such that the distal segment includes a distal tip substantially aligned with the shaft to permit passage of the trocar within the hollow shaft. The distal tip also is configured with a tissue-gripping surface in as much as a plane of the tissue-gripping surface is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the shaft, dual ports extending from an exterior surface of the hollow shaft, each port defining a hollow passageway into the hollow shaft, and dual couplers, one coupling a suction line to one of the dual ports and another coupling an irrigation line to another of the dual ports. Finally, the kit can include a laser fiber.

Abstract: A system for direct imaging and diagnosing of abnormal cells in a target tissue includes an image acquisition system comprising a plurality of independently movable optical elements. The image acquisition system is arranged to capture at least one of a single image or multiple images or video of cells within the target tissue using at least one of bright field or dark field source divided into independently operated segments to obtain a plurality of data sets. An image analysis and control unit in communication with the image acquisition system analyzes the data sets and applies algorithms to the data sets for diagnosing abnormal cells.

Abstract: A drug delivery device includes a catheter having first and second ends; a flexible membrane having a rim securely connected to an inner surface of the catheter to define a first volume between the first end and the flexible membrane, and a second volume between the flexible membrane and the second end, such that the second volume is substantially the same as a desired drug volume; and a pressurizable member coupled to the catheter for operably delivering a drug. In use, a desired volume of the drug is preloaded into the second volume of the catheter that in turn is slid into a guidance device, when the guidance device is placed in a target of interest, the pressurizable member applies a pressure into the first volume to exert a force upon the flexible membrane to operably squeeze the second volume, thereby unloading the drug into the target.

Abstract: An optical coherence tomography probe and laser combination device configured for real-time z-directional guidance of the incisional depth of a surgical procedure. It can be used alone or placed within the working channel of an endoscope. The device includes an OCT single mode fiber, and a laser fiber or laser hollow waveguide or electrical surgical wire positioned adjacent to the OCT single mode fiber. The single mode fiber is configured to move laterally when activated by an actuator to scan light data reflected from a sample that is positioned in front of a distal end of the device. The light data can be processed to generate a B-scan image. The device can collect data in real-time during lasing, or immediately prior to and following the cutting. The surgical tool, when coupled to a processor, can deactivate when the B-scan image identifies that the incision is within a predefined tolerance.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus that includes a modifiable fiber structure adapted to operate in at least two configurations such that is a sideways-firing configuration the fiber structure is adapted to emit radiation in a substantially sideways direction relative to a longitudinal axis of the fiber structure, and in another, axial-firing, configuration the fiber structure is adapted to emit radiation in substantially axial direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the fiber structure. Also disposed is another apparatus that includes a guide tube disposed within a scope, the guide tube configured to be advanced to a position near an area to be treated so that the scope can be advanced along the guide tube to the position near the area to be treated. The guide tube is further configured to receive a treatment instrument to perform a treatment procedure on the area to be treated.

Abstract: A network based surgical system including a first medical device having a first network interface, a second medical device having a second network interface, a communications network over which the first medical device, through the first network interface, and the second medical device, through the second network interface, are communicable, wherein the first network interface and the second network interface employ the same network protocol for communicating over the communications network, and wherein the first network interface has a maximum throughput greater than a maximum throughput of the second network interface.

Abstract: A device for supplying laser radiation is described. The device has adjustable focusing or a fixed geometry. The device can be connected as required to cystoscopes or endoscopes including those provided with a translation element commonly used for resection. The device is also connected to separate laser sources or to a single laser source whose emission is suitably divided and conveyed in two or more outgoing fibres. The device can be used for the purposes of resection, vaporization and/or cutting and/or ablation, and/or for haemostasis, providing results similar to those of conventional resection procedures using an electrosurgical scalpel/resector.

Abstract: A lower esophageal sphincter tightening device for treating gastro esophageal reflux disease which includes an insertion device, an energy source, and an energy transmitting device. The insertion device, by insertion through a body opening, positions the energy transmitting device in the proximity of the lower esophageal sphincter. The energy generates and transmits energy via the insertion device to the energy transmitting device which directs the transmitted energy onto the lower esophageal sphincter which is comprised largely of collagen. The energy source transmits energy at a level sufficient to cause heating of the sphincter's collagen resulting in a shrinkage of the collagen and a tightening of the sphincter.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention include minimally invasive imaging system. Systems according to embodiments of the invention include: an access device having a proximal end and distal end and an internal passageway extending from the proximal to distal end; and an elongated member dimensioned to be slidably moved through the internal passageway of the access device and having a proximal and distal end. In the systems of the invention, at least one of multiple visualization elements and multiple illumination elements are positioned among the distal ends of the access device and the elongated member. Also provided are methods of using the systems in imaging applications, as well as kits for performing the methods.

Abstract: A flexible endoscope for ophthalmic orbital surgery includes a flexible probe housing having a proximal end, a distal end and a lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The endoscope also includes an image fiber disposed in the lumen that communicates image information from the distal end of the flexible probe, a purge fluid/gas port disposed at the proximal end of the flexible probe that accepts purge fluid/gas and a purge fluid/gas conduit disposed in the lumen and in fluid communication with the purge fluid/gas port. The fluid/gas conduit delivers purge fluid/gas to the distal end of the endoscope. The endoscope also includes an access conduit disposed in the lumen that receives one of an ablation instrument, a coagulating instrument and a medication delivery instrument.

Abstract: A system for preventing inadvertent actuation of a medical device. The system includes an elongate tube having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending from the proximal end to the distal end. The lumen is configured to receive a medical device configured to transition between an actuated state and an inactive state. The device further includes a detection system configured to determine a position of a distal end of the medical device relative to the distal end of the elongate tube. The detection system includes a transmitting element and a receiving element.

Abstract: Many embodiments of an airway assembly and methods of using an airway assembly are disclosed. In one embodiment, an airway assembly includes an outer tube, an inner tube disposed coaxially with the outer tube, and a seal disposed on the inner tube. The seal is movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position where the seal engages an airway. Another embodiment is an airway assembly that includes an outer tube having a proximal portion and a distal portion, and an inner tube disposed coaxially with the outer tube. The inner tube has a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal portion of the outer tube has an outer diameter that is larger than an outer diameter of the distal portion of the outer tube.

Abstract: An optical coherence tomography probe and laser combination device configured for real-time z-directional guidance of the incisional depth of a surgical procedure. It can be used alone or placed within the working channel of an endoscope. The device includes an OCT single mode fiber, and a laser fiber or laser hollow waveguide or electrical surgical wire positioned adjacent to the OCT single mode fiber. The single mode fiber is configured to move laterally when activated by an actuator to scan light data reflected from a sample that is positioned in front of a distal end of the device. The light data can be processed to generate a B-scan image. The device can collect data in real-time during lasing, or immediately prior to and following the cutting. The surgical tool, when coupled to a processor, can deactivate when the B-scan image identifies that the incision is within a predefined tolerance.

Abstract: Endoscope and method comprise a micro endoscope with insertion end that is about 1-2 millimeters in outer diameter and includes an optical fiber image bundle, two optical laser fibers, two illumination source optical fiber bundles, along with three focusing lenses for image bundle and laser fibers. Insertion end may be inserted in a female milk duct, other body cavity, or internal organ to inspect for cells and lesions. Visual inspection is aided by the use of special mixtures of light sources to observe the distinction between normal and abnormal cells. If abnormal cells or lesions are detected and the surgeon decides cells or lesions are non-cancerous, the surgeon may then use endoscope to precisely burn, ablate, or otherwise kill abnormal cells at their point of origin on the milk duct, other body cavity, or internal organ. The procedure is minimally invasive and much less costly than many other similarly functioning medical procedures.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of apparatus, system, computer-accessible medium, procedure and method are provided which can be used for providing laser steering and focusing for, e.g., incision, excision and/or ablation of tissue in minimally-invasive surgery. For example, the exemplary apparatus can include at least one optical element which can be configured to refract and/or diffract light provided in a structure which can be configured to be inserted into a body, where at least one of the optical element(s) is structured to receive the light at a first angle and generate a refracted and/or diffracted light at a second angle which can be different from the first angle relative to an optical axis. For example, an actuating arrangement can be provided, which can be configured to control the optical element(s), can be provided and situated at least partially within the at least one structure.

Abstract: In general, in one aspect, the disclosure features a system that includes a flexible waveguide having a hollow core extending along a waveguide axis and a region surrounding the core, the region being configured to guide radiation from the CO2 laser along the waveguide axis from an input end to an output end of the waveguide. The system also includes a handpiece attached to the waveguide, wherein the handpiece allows an operator to control the orientation of the output end to direct the radiation to a target location of a patient and the handpiece includes a tip extending past the output end that provides a minimum standoff distance between the output end and the target location.

Abstract: A laser video endoscope provides a small diameter (25 mils) probe. This size probe requires a minimum access lesion. The tradeoff that produces such a probe includes reducing the laser guide fiber to 100 microns in diameter, employing an image bundle having approximately 6,000 optical fibers and an illumination bundle having only about 210 optical fibers. The probe where it extends into the handle has a 45 mil outer diameter and a 5 mil thick sidewall to provide resistance to breaking at the juncture with the handle. The probe is rigid, preferably metal. The probe has a larger diameter proximal portion and a smaller diameter distal portion. The distal portion of the probe has a length limited to about 710 mils. A green laser of 532 nanometers wavelength provides a collimated laser beam that causes minimal loss in the 100 micron laser optical fiber.

Abstract: A hand manipulated endoscopic medical device is disclosed. The medical device includes a body having a proximal end, which is hand manipulated, and a distal end which includes a manipulator. A light emitting device is centrally disposed at the distal end. An imaging device is centrally disposed at the distal end for imaging at least a portion of the region illuminated by the light emitting device. Also disclosed is a tool for extracting an artificial lumbar disc from between a pair of vertebral plates. The extraction tool includes a handle, a member for transmitting force, and a sharpened end, specially configured to be placed between the artificial disc and the vertebral plate. Further disclosed is a tool for implanting or explanting a ball to or from an artificial lumbar disc. The implanter/explanter includes a pinion shaft and a pinion shaft enclosure. A tightening knob is disposed at the proximal end of the shaft enclosure and coupled to the pinion shaft.

Abstract: Endoscope and method comprise a micro endoscope with insertion end that is about 1-2 millimeters in outer diameter and includes an optical fiber image bundle, two optical laser fibers, two illumination source optical fiber bundles, along with three focusing lenses for image bundle and laser fibers. Insertion end may be inserted in a female milk duct, other body cavity, or internal organ to inspect for cells and lesions. Visual inspection is aided by the use of special mixtures of light sources to observe the distinction between normal and abnormal cells. If abnormal cells or lesions are detected and the surgeon decides cells or lesions are non-cancerous, the surgeon may then use endoscope to precisely burn, ablate, or otherwise kill abnormal cells at their point of origin on the milk duct, other body cavity, or internal organ. The procedure is minimally invasive and much less costly than many other similarly functioning medical procedures.

Abstract: A laser video endoscope has a laser guide, an illumination guide and an image guide. These are fiber optical guides which extend through the optical probe and through a hand piece that supports the probe. The hand piece is connected by a first relatively long flexible optical fiber cable to a laser energy source and a source of illumination. By contrast, the image is transmitted from the hand piece to an image presentation site by a camera assembly that is mounted to the hand piece and a relatively long electrical cable. The camera and its electrical cable can be uncoupled from the hand piece and used in a plurality of endoscopic routines. The rest of the product, including the probe and the hand piece, can be disposed of after each medical routine thereby providing assurance of an antiseptic procedure.

Abstract: The apparatus of one embodiment of the present invention is comprised of a flexible sheath instrument, a flexible guide instrument, and a tool. The flexible sheath instrument comprises a first instrument base removably coupleable to an instrument driver and defines a sheath instrument working lumen. The flexible guide instrument comprises a second instrument base removably coupleable to the instrument driver and is threaded through the sheath instrument working lumen. The guide instrument also defines a guide instrument working lumen. The tool is threaded through the guide instrument working lumen. For this embodiment of the apparatus, the sheath instrument and guide instrument are independently controllable relative to each other.

Abstract: A technique for treating obesity, diabetes, and other endocrinological disorders by removal of the omentum by endoscopic and oral approaches is described herein. The removal of the omentum interferes with the glucose absorption or ghrelin production thereby improving and correcting the obesity and diabetes.

Abstract: The present invention provides a confocal endoscope, microscope or endomicroscope including a light source of coherent light for illuminating a sample, a beam splitter and light receiving means, wherein an incident beam of light from the light source is directed onto the beam splitter and hence onto the sample, and light returning from the sample and incident on the beam splitter is deviated or displaced by the beam splitter by a small angle or distance relative to the incident beam, and received by the light receiving means located to receive the returning light and near the light source. The invention also a method for performing confocal endoscopy or microscopy including illuminating a sample by means of an incident or excitatory beam of coherent light, and deviating or displacing light returning from the sample by a small angle or distance relative to the incident beam.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for a laser sighting endoscopic instrument incorporating a laser unit for attachment to an endoscopic instrument in alignment with an axis of a lumen within a cannula portion of the instrument for visualizing a field of surgical access.

Abstract: A surgical instrument that includes a probe that is extended into a body cavity made in, for example, the wrist of a subject and a handle held by a surgeon outside the body cavity, where the surgical instrument includes both an optical system and surgical tool operable by the surgeon that passes through the probe includes a laser beam emitter to assist a surgeon in aligning the probe with, for example, the ring finger of the patient after the probe is inserted. The laser beam emitter is preferably mounted on the probe and directs a beam generally parallel to the probe which is aligned with the deployable cutting blade.

Abstract: In general, in one aspect, the disclosure features a system that includes a flexible waveguide having a hollow core extending along a waveguide axis and a region surrounding the core, the region being configured to, guide radiation from the CO2 laser along the waveguide axis from an input end to an output end of the waveguide. The system also includes a handpiece attached to the waveguide, wherein the handpiece allows an operator to control the orientation of the output end to direct the radiation to a target location of a patient and the handpiece includes a tip extending past the output end that provides a minimum standoff distance between the output end and the target location.

Abstract: An endoscope apparatus includes first and second light sources, an endoscope leading end portion, an irradiation window, an observation window, a light irradiation unit and an emission angle changing unit. The first light source outputs laser light for diagnosis. The second light source outputs laser light for therapy. The laser light for therapy is different in spectrum from the laser for diagnosis. The irradiation window and the observation window are provided in the endoscope leading end portion. The light irradiation unit emits the laser light for diagnosis and the laser light for therapy to the object through the irradiation window. The emission angle changing unit changes an emission angle at which the laser light for therapy is emitted through the irradiation window to be smaller than an emission angle at which the laser light for diagnosis is emitted. The object to be examined is observed through the observation window.

Abstract: Techniques, apparatus and systems that use an optical probe head to deliver light to a target and to collect light from the target for imaging and monitoring a target while a separate radiation is applied to treat the target.