Abstract: An endoscope and stroboscope comprising an elongated rigid tube that includes an inner tube providing an optical path for viewing through said tube by a human being, an LED light source connected to said tube and a fiber optic bundle providing light transmission from said LED through and within said endoscopic and stroboscopic tube providing optical illumination from the distal end of said tube without interfering with the optical view for the user. The LED light source can be varied in intensity. A first end of the fiber optic bundle is a hemispherical concave shape abuts the LED light source.

Abstract: A photothermal actuator comprises an optical fiber bundle, a light inputting apparatus, and a thermal receiving element. The optical fiber bundle is inserted in a tube of a catheter etc. The light inputting apparatus inputs light into the optical fiber bundle. The thermal receiving element is provided on a part of an outer surface of the optical fiber bundle. The thermal receiving element is heated by the light so that the thermal receiving element and a part of the optical fiber bundle are stretched, whereby the optical fiber bundle and the tube are bent.

Abstract: An endoscope assembly consisting of an endoscope 622, a light source, 626 and a camera 552 with display 558. The endoscope contains a memory 670 with data that describes the endoscope and its operating characteristics. When the light source is connected to the endoscope with a fiber optic cable 628, the data in the memory are read into a control processor 538a internal to the light source. The control processor, based on the endoscope data configures the light source so that it emits an appropriate amount of light for that endoscope. The light source also sends a control unit 556 of the camera data indicating the type of endoscope to which the camera is attached. Based on this endoscope type data, the control unit processes the image signals generated by the camera head in an appropriate form for the attached endoscope so as to produce appropriate signals for presenting an image on the display.

Abstract: An apparatus and method embodying the invention including utilizing a device with a limited number of interrogation devices to accomplish a large number of measurements on a target tissue. An instrument embodying the invention includes a plurality of detection devices that are arranged in a predetermined pattern on a tissue contacting face of the instrument. The face of the instrument is located adjacent the target tissue, and a plurality of tissue characteristic measurement are simultaneously conducted. The detection devices are moved to a new position, preferably without moving the tissue contacting face, and a second plurality of tissue characteristic measurements are simultaneously conducted. By conducting a series of measurement cycles in this manner, the ultimate resolution of the device is increased, while still obtaining a given resolution, which reduces potential cross-talk errors.

Abstract: A space through which a cooling fluid flows is provided in the inside of a connection portion between an endoscope and a light source device in order to cool heat generated in the connection portion. For example, a device for performing air supply or air suction (at least either one of air supply and air suction) in the endoscope communicates with the space, and cooling is effected by the flow of air formed by the device. In a preferred example of a cooling method, when neither air supply nor air suction is needed during manipulation of the endoscope, the device and the space are connected to each other to effect cooling, and when air supply or air suction is needed, the flow of air used for cooling is intercepted, and is exclusively directed to an air channel in the endoscope.

Abstract: A connector assembly for an endoscope apparatus, which includes a plug removably insertable in a receptacle, is disclosed. The plug has a molded body incorporating a light cable and an electrical connector in a fixed spatial relationship within the molded body.

Abstract: In a method for in vivo diagnostics of a biological tissue covered with epithelium an image of the biological tissue is acquired with the aid of a beam in the visible or near IR range directed towards a biological tissue by visualizing the intensity of optical radiation backscattered by the biological tissue. The basal membrane of said biological tissue, which separates the epithelium from an underlying stroma, is identified in the acquired image and diagnostics is performed on basis of the form of the basal membrane. For diagnostics of biological tissue lining the surface of cavities and internal organs of a patient a miniature optical fiber probe is inserted into the patient's cavity. The probe may be placed at a distal end of an endoscope instrumental channel.

Abstract: A probe, which includes a plurality of first optical fibers and a plurality of second optical fibers that are tied as a composite bundle at a distal end side with forming a center channel through which a treatment instrument can be drawn. The first optical fibers are tied as a first branch bundle at a proximal end side and the second optical fibers are tied as a second branch bundle that is separated form the first branch bundle at the proximal end side. With this construction, a treatment instrument is available even if the probe is drawn through a forceps channel of an endoscope because the treatment instrument can be drawn through the center channel formed in the composite bundle.

Abstract: An endoscope which has small bending resistance and is hard to be damaged or broken even when it is repeatedly used is disclosed. The endoscope includes a flexible insertion section 2 and an operation section 7 provided on the proximal end of the insertion section 2. The insertion section 2 has a sheath constructed from an outer layer 382 and the like, and elongated members such as an image guide 31 and light guides 32, 32 and the like are housed in lumens in the sheath. Further, each light guide 32 has an optical fiber bundle and a protective sheath 321 for protecting the optical fiber bundle. In the interior space of the protective sheath 321, a lubricant 5 containing a silicone oil and a solid lubricant is provided. The solid lubricant contains at least one of boron nitride, poly tetrafluoroethylene, and molybdenum disulfide. The solid lubricant is preferably formed into powder having an average grain size of 0.1 to 15 ?m.

Abstract: A solid-state light source includes a semiconductor light source for emitting light and an optical system having a fiber optic element. The fiber optic element has an input for receiving emitted light from the semiconductor light source. The fiber optic element also has an output for emitting light received from the solid-state light source. The semiconductor light source and the fiber optic element in aggregate form an illumination path.

Abstract: An omnidirectional endoscope device 1 is provided at a distal end part of an insertion section 12 of an endoscope 10 with an omnidirectional light receiving unit 20 for receiving an incident light from all around the periphery in the peripheral direction and reflecting the light toward a relay lens optical system 13. The insertion section 12 slidably pierces through a retaining cylinder 33. A light guide 35 (illumination light transmitting means) is embedded in the retaining cylinder 33, and an outgoing surface at the distal end of this light guide 35 is faced with a distal end face of the retaining cylinder 33. The retaining cylinder 33 can be operated in a sliding manner by a grip 31 disposed at the basal end. By this, the illumination light can strike upon the view field of the omnidirectional light receiving mechanism regardless whether the inside space of an image to be observed is large or small.

Abstract: An endoscope has a removable suction tube to facilitate cleaning and reduce the risk of patient infection. The endoscope includes an elongated flexible probe with a housing at its proximal end to control the direction and operation of the probe and for viewing images carried by optical fibers from the distal end of the probe. A recess or slot extending along either the suction tube or probe enables the suction tube to be removably secured to the probe. A suction tube connector at the proximal end of the suction tube allows the suction tube to be removably secured to the housing and also provides a connector for removable attachment to an external suction line. In the preferred embodiment, the suction tube connector includes means for regulating suction through the suction tube, such as a vent opening that can be manually sealed by a healthcare provider.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus (24) for use as a borescope or endoscope for viewing an object at a remote or inaccessible location. The apparatus (24) comprises a tube (22) having a proximal end and a distal end and means in the tube for obtaining an image of an object and transmitting it to a viewing device. The apparatus (24) also comprises illumination means comprising an array (20) of light emitting diodes (10) mounted on a substrate (12) and covered by a common protective shield (18) of optically clear material. The array (20) may be mounted at the distal end of the tube (22) adjacent a viewing port (26). Alternatively, the array (20) may be mounted at the proximal end of the tube, adjacent the end face (38) of a bundle of optical fibers which transmit light to the distal end of the tube (22). The arrangement eliminates the need for an external light source ande light guide, thereby reducing light losses and making the apparatus more compact.

Abstract: Disclosed is an intubation imaging stylet for intubating a patient by use in a tube/imaging stylet combination, said imaging stylet comprising: a malleable stylet having a longitudinal axis and a proximal end and a distal end; a flexible image guide having a longitudinal axis and a proximal end and a distal end, said image guide being connected to said stylet such that a portion of said image guide runs parallel to a portion of said stylet along the longitudinal axis of said stylet and such that the distal end of said image guide is co-extensive with the distal end of said stylet; and at least one flexible illumination fiber having a proximal end and a distal end, said illumination fiber being connected to said stylet such that a portion of said illumination fiber runs parallel to a portion of said stylet along the longitudinal axis of said stylet and such that the distal end of said illumination fiber is co-extensive with the distal end of said stylet; such that in use, said imaging stylet is disposed within

Abstract: Balloon probes, adapted for use in endoscopy and other medical procedures, are useful to obtain spectroscopic information reflected or emitted from a tissue of interest in the infrared spectral region. The information collected by the probe is useful in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. The invention also relates to methods utilizing these probes to analyze a surface of interest, in a minimally invasive manner, in connection with the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

Abstract: A probe of an endoscope comprises a light guide fiber bundle and an image guide fiber bundle. The light guide fiber bundle supplies illumination light to the distal end of the probe, to illuminate the observed object. The illumination light is reflected by the observed object, and enters the end surface of the image guide fiber bundle. A ratio of an illumination sectional area of the light guide fiber bundle to a light receiving sectional area of the image guide fiber bundle is made equal.

Abstract: Disclosed is a diagnosis supporting device that acquires a reference image signal of a subject that is illuminated with reference light and a fluorescent image signal of the subject that is excited by irradiation with excitation light, calculates a first intensity coefficient based on the maximum brightness level of the fluorescent image data and calculates a second intensity coefficient corresponding to the maximum brightness level of the reference image data, and controls the intensities of the excitation light and the reference light according to the first and second intensity coefficients. The coefficients are determined such that the intensities of the excitation light and the reference light increase as the maximum brightness levels of the fluorescent image data and the reference image data decrease.

Abstract: Endoscopes and other viewing devices that control the light that contacts a sample and/or that is detected emanating from a sample. The viewing devices are particularly well suited for in vivo imaging, although other uses are also included. The viewing devices, and methods related thereto, comprise a spatial light modulator in the illumination and/or detection light path so that light transmitted to the target via a bundle of light guides or optical system is transmitted substantially only into the cores of the light guide bundle and not into the cladding surrounding the light guides, filler between the light guides in the bundle, or undesired light guides. Also, methods and apparatus for mapping the pixels of the spatial light modulator to the cores of the light guides in the bundle (preferably at least 3 pixels (e.g., at least 3 mirrors for a digital micromirror device) for each core), as well as for mapping the light guides of one light guide bundle to another.

Abstract: A confocal microscope system that is inherently fiberoptic compatible is described which has line scanning aided image formation. An incoherent fiberoptic bundle maps a line illumination pattern into a dispersible group of separate sources, and then remaps this confocally selected remitted light to the original line. Fibers, not confocal with the illumination, carry light to be rejected from the image back on itself upon double passing, while separate fibers carry light from non-confocal sample planes. The transformation allows efficient rejection of unwanted photons at a slit aperture. The fiber bundle and an objective lens provide a flexible probe for imaging internal tissue for pathological examination on a cellular level.

Abstract: Balloon probes, adapted for use in endoscopy and other medical procedures, are useful to obtain spectroscopic information reflected or emitted from a tissue of interest in the infrared spectral region. The information collected by the probe is useful in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. The invention also relates to methods utilizing these probes to analyze a surface of interest, in a minimally invasive manner, in connection with the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

Abstract: An endoscope comprising a shaft comprises an imaging system arranged in the shaft and an illuminating system which allows light emitted by a light source to emerge at the distal end of shaft, wherein the light source comprises at least one light emitting diode. The light source comprises at least two light emitting diodes which emit light in different spectral ranges, and the light of the at least two light emitting diodes emerges spectrally additively mixed from the illuminating system.

Abstract: An optic for the imaging optics on the distal end of a flexible fiberoptic endoscope or rigid borescope inspection tool. The image coverage is over a narrow (<20 degrees) field of view with very low optical distortion (<5% pin cushion or barrel distortion), compared to the typical <20% distortion. The optic will permit non-contact surface roughness measurements using optical techniques. This optic will permit simultaneous collection of selected image plane data, which data can then be subsequently optically processed. The image analysis will yield non-contact surface topology data for inspection where access to the surface does not permit a mechanical styles profilometer verification of surface topology. The optic allows a very broad spectral band or range of optical inspection. It is capable of spectroscopic imaging and fluorescence induced imaging when a scanning illumination source is used.

Abstract: A portable, hand-held endoscopic camera having all of the necessary components for performing endoscopic procedures comprises power source means, lens means, light source means, and video camera means. The portable endoscopic camera is adaptable to a wide variety of systems and includes a low wattage light source means. The camera is self-contained. A kit is also provided, the kit having all of the components necessary for performing endoscopic procedures.

Abstract: An endoscopic system for internal inspection of an object includes an endoscope extending along a longitudinal axis between a distal end to be inserted into the object and a proximal end and an illumination assembly attached to the proximal end of the endoscope. The illumination assembly includes a solid-state light source. The endoscopic system also includes an optical system positioned distally from the solid-state light source to receive and convey light to the distal end.

Abstract: A micro-endoscopic system employs a pulsed xenon light source and novel image collection optics with a fine diameter optical probe for an endoscope. Very bright pulses of light emitted by a xenon flash tube increase the intensity of light incident on the light transmitting optics, allowing a reduction in size of the optical components, resulting in a corresponding reduction in the size of the optical probe. A novel segmented glass image guide directs the reflected light to a sensor array. Segmentation of the image guide avoids the birefringence problems associated with fine diameter glass optical structures. Conventional optical fiber imaging and light delivery apparatus may also be used in conjunction with the pulsed xenon light source.

Abstract: Endoscopes and other viewing devices that control the light that contacts a sample and/or that is detected emanating from a sample. The viewing devices are particularly well suited for in vivo imaging, although other uses are also included. The viewing devices, and methods related thereto, comprise a spatial light modulator in the illumination and/or detection light path so that light transmitted to the target via a bundle of light guides or optical system is transmitted substantially only into the cores of the light guide bundle and not into the cladding surrounding the light guides, filler between the light guides in the bundle, or undesired light guides. Also, methods and apparatus for mapping the pixels of the spatial light modulator to the cores of the light guides in the bundle (preferably at least 3 pixels (e.g., at least 3 mirrors for a digital micromirror device) for each core), as well as for mapping the light guides of one light guide bundle to another.

Abstract: An introperative surgical probe incorporating both a fiber optic imaging system and multi-element beta/gamma radiation directional indicating system is described.

Abstract: An endoscope includes a body defining a bore that extends therethrough. A number of fiber optic cables extend at least partially through the body and terminate adjacent one end of the bore. The number of fiber optic cables includes a first subset having their ends opposite the body coupled to a light source. The number of fiber optic cables can also include one or more additional subsets having their ends opposite the body coupled to a viewer.

Abstract: An apparatus and method embodying the invention include utilizing a device with a limited number of interrogation devices to accomplish a large number of measurements on a target tissue (50). An instrument embodying the invention includes a plurality of detection devices (54) that are arranged in a predetermined pattern on a tissue contacting face of the instrument. The face of the instrument is located adjacent the target tissue (50), and a plurality of tissue characteristic measurement are simultaneously conducted. The detection devices (54) are moved to a new position, preferably without moving the tissue contacting face, and a second plurality of tissue characteristic measurements are simultaneously conducted. By conducting a series of measurements cycles in this manner, the ultimate resolution of the device is increased, while still obtaining a given resolution, which reduces potential cross-talk errors.

Abstract: An endoscope has a removable suction tube to facilitate cleaning and reduce the risk of patient infection. The endoscope includes an elongated flexible probe with a housing at its proximal end to control the direction and operation of the probe and for viewing images carried by optical fibers from the distal end of the probe. A recess or slot extending along either the suction tube or probe enables the suction tube to be removably secured to the probe. A suction tube connector at the proximal end of the suction tube allows the suction tube to be removably secured to the housing and also provides a connector for removable attachment to an external suction line. In the preferred embodiment, the suction tube connector includes means for regulating suction through the suction tube, such as a vent opening that can be manually sealed by a healthcare provider.

Abstract: An autoclavable flexible fiberscope for remote visualization. A flexible fiberscope shaft including a number of flexible fiberoptic image-transmitting fibers is attached to a video coupler for connection to a video camera or other external video device. High-temperature materials of fabrication and high-temperature seals are provided to resist damage during autoclave sterilization.

Abstract: An endoscope apparatus for reducing a halation for a large observation area without an illumination nonuniformity includes an insertion part which has an end having a wide-angle object optical system with two or more types of illumination optical systems having different illumination strength or light distribution. An illumination optical system having a greater illumination strength or wider light distribution is arranged on both sides of the end in a direction of a long side of a screen of the wide-angle object optical system. An illumination optical system having a lesser illumination strength or narrower light distribution is arranged on both sides of the end in a direction of a short side of the screen of the wide-angle object optical system.

Abstract: A micro-endoscopic system employs a pulsed xenon light source and image collection optics with a fine diameter optical probe for an endoscope. Very bright pulses of light emitted by a xenon flash tube increase the intensity of light incident on the light transmitting optics, allowing a reduction in size of the optical components, resulting in a corresponding reduction in the size of the optical probe. A segmented glass image guide directs the reflected light to a sensor array. Segmentation of the image guide avoids the stress related problems associated with fine diameter glass optical structures.

Abstract: An endoscope has a fiber optic waveguide that transmits an image from a distal end to a proximal end, the waveguide having an outer diameter of less than 3 mm. A lens system is positioned at the distal end of the fiber optic waveguide. An imaging device is optically coupled to the proximal end of fiber optic waveguide. A disposable sheath extends about the fiber optic waveguide to provide a sterile barrier, and in a preferred embodiment the sheath includes an illumination channel. In a preferred embodiment, the lens system has a first lens element, a second lens element and an aperture stop.

Abstract: Disclosed is a probe, which includes a plurality of first optical fibers and a plurality of second optical fibers that are tied as a composite bundle at a distal end side with forming a center channel through which a treatment instrument can be drawn. The first optical fibers are tied as a first branch bundle at a proximal end side and the second optical fibers are tied as a second branch bundle that is separated form the first branch bundle at the proximal end side. With this construction, a treatment instrument is available even if the probe is drawn through a forceps channel of an endoscope because the treatment instrument can be drawn through the center channel formed in the composite bundle.

Abstract: Using a non-coherent optical bundle having a plurality of fibers for image transmission. The fibers of the non-coherent optical bundle may be calibrated to generate a mapping function. Image data at a sending end of the non-coherent optical bundle may be obtained and transmitted over the non-coherent optical bundle, the image data being scrambled during transmission to produce scrambled image data at a receiving end of the non-coherent optical bundle. The mapping function may be applied to the scrambled image data to reproduce the image data for use in an imaging system.

Abstract: An endoscope optics is fitted with a rigid stem and an objective lens is received in a distal end of the stem. The stem also receives an image transmission device for transmitting images away from the objective lens toward a proximal end of the stem. The image transmission device consists of a plurality of spaced apart optical lenses. At least one ofthe plurality of spaced apart lenses is made of sapphire.

Abstract: A probe of an endoscope comprises a light guide fiber bundle and an image guide fiber bundle. The light guide fiber bundle supplies illumination light to the distal end of the probe, to illuminate the observed object. The illumination light is reflected by the observed object, and enters the end surface of the image guide fiber bundle. When the radius of the image guide fiber bundle is a, the radius of the light guide fiber bundle is b, and the inner radius of the probe is 1, a and b satisfy the following conditions. 0.545≦a≦0.581 0.419≦b≦0.

Abstract: A catheter based optical system for generating data as to the condition of a tissue sample of a mammalian vessel. The system includes an elongated catheter shaft having a tissue engaging distal end and a coupled proximal end and an elongated optical delivery fiber arrangement disposed through a lumen of said catheter, said optical delivery fiber arrangement having a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end of the delivery fiber arrangement has a re-director light emitter thereon for directing light against mammalian tissues. An elongated optical collection fiber arrangement is disposed through a lumen of the catheter, the optical collection fiber arrangement having a distal end and a proximal most end. The distal end of the collection fiber arrangement has a re-director light receiver thereon for receiving light reflected from the mammalian tissue by the light emitter. The light emitter and the light receiver are longitudinally spaced apart from one another in the distal end of the catheter.

Abstract: A color video diagnostic system for mini-endoscopes for viewing features of objects where access to the object is limited or where minimally invasive techniques are preferable, such as in medical or industrial applications. A black-and-white video chip mounted at the distal end of an endoscope body images an object sequentially illuminated by laser diode light sources having different wavelengths. More than one laser diode may be used within a color region to provide truer color representations. A controller controls the laser diode light sources for sequentially illuminating the object by color, and a video processor responsive to the controller receives signals from the black-and-white video chip for producing a color data signal. A display displays a color image of the object. At least one diagnostic laser diode light source, which can be tunable, may be included for enhancing selected features of the object being viewed, and it may emit in the visible, near infrared, or infrared wavelength regions.

Abstract: A zoom laparoscope having a laparoscope base unit with a proximal end and a distal end and having a sheath with a zoom assembly. In one embodiment, the laparoscope comprises a two dimensional solid state imaging sensor. The laparoscope can contain a sheath locking mechanism located at both its proximal and distal ends. The sheath can comprise a light transmitting material for illumination of a region of interest. In an alternate embodiment, the sheath comprises an attachment for changing the angle of view of the laparoscope. The laparoscope can also contain a handle at its proximal end.

Abstract: An endoscope system is provided with first and second light guides, which are optically coupled by an optical coupler. A low-coherent light source is provided, and the light emitted therefrom is incident on the first or second light guide. Further provided is a scanning unit that causes the light beam emerged from the first light guide to scan on a predetermined surface of the object. The light beam reflected by the object is directed, by the scanning unit, to the first light guide as a detection light beam. A light beam emerged from the second light guide is reflected by a reflector and returned to the second light guide as a reference beam. By varying the optical path length of the reference beam relative to that of the detection beam, two beams interfere. A signal processing system generates OCT image based on the signal detected by a light detecting device which receives the interfering beams.

Abstract: An illuminating device for an endoscope system emits light toward a light receiving surface of an optical fiber bundle. Light incident on the light receiving surface of said optical fiber bundle is emitted from a light emitting surface of the optical fiber bundle for illuminating an object. The illuminating device is provided with a plurality of light emitting elements, each of which emits a directive monochromatic light beam. The light beams emitted by the plurality of light emitting elements are incident on the light receiving surface of the optical fiber bundle within an angular aperture of the light receiving surface thereof.

Abstract: A method of conducting endoscopic surgeries places the camera outside the sterile field, freeing the physicians hands and eliminating costs and inconveniences associated with sterilizing the camera between surgeries. Images may be relayed to the camera by means of a fiber optic cable. Cost issues associated with the long fiber optic cable are avoided by breaking it into two segments, only one of which is likely to be damaged during use. An image preserving connection is formed between the cable segments by a connector that fixes the ends of the cables in close proximity to one another, but a certain fixed distance apart. An image preserving connection is made between two fiber optic cables without the aide of a lens.

Abstract: A portable, hand-held endoscopic camera having all of the necessary components for performing endoscopic procedures comprises power source means, lens means, light source means, and video camera means. The portable endoscopic camera is adaptable to a wide variety of systems and includes a low wattage light source means. The camera is self-contained. A kit is also provided, the kit having all of the components necessary for performing endoscopic procedures.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a small diameter imaging probe or endoscope, a solid state imaging device, and a light transmitting path that collects light at a distal end of the probe and directs the light along the length of the probe to the imaging device. The invention also relates to a small diameter endoscope having a light transmitting path with a light absorbing layer and a super clad layer defining the image aperture.

Abstract: An apparatus and methods for fiber optic confocal imaging systems. A plurality of fibers are in communication with a scan system that controllably deflects incident radiation into the fibers in a raster pattern. An index matching agent reduces specular reflections from the fibers.

Abstract: A probe of an endoscope comprises a light guide fiber bundle and an image guide fiber bundle. The light guide fiber bundle supplies illumination light to the distal end of the probe, to illuminate the observed object. The illumination light is reflected by the observed object, and enters the end surface of the image guide fiber bundle. When the radius of the image guide fiber bundle is a, the radius of the light guide fiber bundle is b, and the inner radius of the probe is 1, a and b satisfy the following conditions.

Abstract: A probe of an endoscope comprises a light guide fiber bundle and an image guide fiber bundle. The light guide fiber bundle supplies illumination light to the distal end of the probe, to illuminate the observed object. The illumination light is reflected by the observed object, and enters the end surface of the image guide fiber bundle. A ratio of an illumination sectional area of the light guide fiber bundle to a light receiving sectional area of the image guide fiber bundle is made equal.

Abstract: A micro-endoscopic system employs a pulsed xenon light source and novel image collection optics with a fine diameter optical probe for an endoscope. Very bright pulses of light emitted by a xenon flash tube increase the intensity of light incident on the light transmitting optics, allowing a reduction in size of the optical components, resulting in a corresponding reduction in the size of the optical probe. A novel segmented glass image guide directs the reflected light to a sensor array. Segmentation of the image guide avoids the birefringence problems associated with fine diameter glass optical structures. Conventional optical fiber imaging and light delivery apparatus may also be used in conjunction with the pulsed xenon light source.