Abstract: The effect of noise light originating in a light guide portion is removed by simple calculations, and a clear fluorescence image that facilitates distinction between lesion tissue and normal tissue is acquired.

Abstract: A spectroscope for detecting vulnerable plaque within a lumen defined by an intraluminal wall includes a probe through which an optical fiber extends. An coupler in optical communication with the fiber is configured to atraumatically contact the intraluminal wall. A light source provides light to the fiber for illuminating the wall and a detector coupled to the fiber receives light from within the wall.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to instruments and instrumental techniques for locating cancer cells in lymph nodes which utilize a radiation detector operatively connected to an ultrasound probe for locating the exact position of radiation tagged tissue, particularly in sentinel lymph nodes followed by placement of a biopsy device. Also described are unique new interoperative radiation detection probes for use in these techniques which include structure for placement of a biopsy device or biopsy needle into the located lymph node and procedures for removal of small portions of detected radiation emitting sentinel lymph nodes for evaluation in a pathology laboratory by measurement of expressed genes located in the removed tissue. The instruments and instrumental techniques also facilitate the subsequent delivery of materials to reverse the unfavorable immune response or environment conducive for metastasis in the sentinel lymph node once cancer cells are located therein.

Abstract: Described herein is a phantom device that simplifies usage, testing, and development of light imaging systems. The phantom device includes a body and a fluorescent light source internal to the body. The body comprises an optical material designed to at least partially resemble the optical behavior of mammalian tissue. The phantom device has many uses. One use of the phantom device permits testing of tomography software in the imaging system, such as software configured for 3D reconstruction of the fluorescent light source. Another use tests spectral unmixing software in the imaging system. The phantom device also allows a user to compare trans- and epi-fluorescent illumination imaging results.

Abstract: The system and method of the present invention relates to using spectroscopy, for example, Raman spectroscopic methods for diagnosis of tissue conditions such as vascular disease or cancer. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a system for measuring tissue includes a fiber optic probe having a proximal end, a distal end, and a diameter of 2 mm or less. This small diameter allows the system to be used for the diagnosis of coronary artery disease or other small lumens or soft tissue with minimal trauma. A delivery optical fiber is included in the probe coupled at the proximal end to a light source. A filter for the delivery fibers is included at the distal end. The system includes a collection optical fiber (or fibers) in the probe that collects Raman scattered radiation from tissue, the collection optical fiber is coupled at the proximal end to a detector. A second filter is disposed at the distal end of the collection fibers.

Abstract: This application describes a medical device (230) for obtaining optical tissue properties of a target material. The medical device (230) comprises an elongated body (231) having a longitudinal axis (232) and an optical fiber being integrated within the elongated body (231). The optical fiber has a second fiber end (242, 242a, 242b), which is arranged at a side wall (233) of the elongated body (231) and which provides a lateral field of view with respect to the longitudinal axis (232). According to an embodiment many optical fibers are integrated each having an optical outlet (242, 242a, 242b) around the elongated body (231). Using the outlets (242, 242a, 242b) to do diffuse optical tomography and also use optical fibers to do an optical inspection, one can get information on the presence of tumors in a volume around the medical device (230) and a tissue characterization in the vicinity of the medical device (230). Thereby, an optical biopsy may be carried out, wherein no real tissue is removed.

Abstract: A catheter with a tissue property sensor provides for localization of myocardial infarction (MI) by utilizing one or more differences between properties of infarcted myocardial tissue and properties of normal myocardial tissue. The tissue property sensor is to be placed on endocardial wall or epicardial wall during catheterization to sense at least one tissue property allowing for detection of MI. Examples of the tissue property sensor include, but are not limited to, an optical sensor, an acoustic sensor, a contractility sensor, a temperature sensor, and a drug response sensor. In one embodiment, the tissue property sensor senses a tissue property in various locations on endocardial wall or epicardial wall and detects substantial changes in the tissue property that indicate a boundary between infarcted tissue and normal tissue.

Abstract: A system for the illumination of tissue structures including tubular structures within the body and a method for the use of the system. The system includes a transparent, biocompatible catheter and a light source.

Abstract: A method for using optical parameters to monitor for a physiological event and/or a state prior to the physiological event includes the steps of: illuminating neural tissue with diagnostic light of a predetermined frequency at a predetermined location; detecting magnitude of optical scattering by neural tissue of the diagnostic light as a function of time; and determining a signature signal of the optical scattering of the diagnostic light before the physiological event in the neural tissue becomes clinically manifested. An apparatus includes a source of diagnostic light of a predetermined frequency for illuminating neural tissue at a predetermined location, a detector of optical scattering and/or optical absorption by neural tissue of the diagnostic light as a function of time, and a signal processor for determining a signature signal of the optical scattering and/or optical absorption of the diagnostic light before the physiological event becomes clinically manifested.

Abstract: A device, system and method for capturing in-vivo images allows for size or distance estimations for objects within the images. A scale may be overlayed on or otherwise added to the images and, based on a comparison between the scale and an image of an object, the size of the object and/or the distance of the object from an imaging device may be estimated or calculated.

Abstract: Light scattering and absorption techniques for the detection of possible abnormal living tissue. Apparatus and methods for utilizing multiple blood content detection sensors and/or contact sensors for beneficially providing data to better guide an endoscope or colonoscope to locate abnormal tissue, tumors, or tissues that precede the development of such lesions or tumors.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a phantom device that simplifies usage and testing of a low intensity light imaging system. The phantom device includes a body and a light source internal to the body. The body comprises an optically selective material designed to at least partially resemble the optical behavior of mammalian tissue. Imaging the light source or phantom device may incorporate known properties of the optically selective material. Testing methods described herein assess the performance of a low-level light imaging system (such as the software) by processing light output by the phantom device and comparing the output against known results. The assessment builds a digital representation of the light source or test device and compares one or more components of the digital representation against one or more known properties for the light source or the test device.

Abstract: A method and system for medical imaging employs an excitation source configured to cause an object having a plurality of cells to at least one of emit, reflect, and fluoresce light. An optical receptor is employed that is configured to receive the light from the object. A filter assembly receives the light from the optical receptor and filters the light. An image processor having a field of view (FOV) substantially greater than a diameter of a cell of the object and an analysis resolution substantially matched to the diameter of a cell of the object that receives the filtered light from the filter and analyzes the filtered light corresponding to each cell in the FOV. A feedback system is provided that is configured to provide an indication of a state of each cell in the FOV and a location of a cell in the FOV meeting a predetermined condition.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and systems for intravascular analysis combine at least three analytical modalities. In one implementation, intravascular ultrasound, optical coherence tomography, and near infrared spectroscopy are combined to enable detection of multiple, different abnormalities in the arterial morphology during a single intravascular procedure.

Abstract: A flush catheter is provided which is configured to be introduced into an orifice to create a flush zone therein. The flush catheter includes a catheter body having an inner cavity, the inner cavity being configured to communicate with a source of flush solution, one or more openings configured to expel therethrough flush solution, and a sheath at least partially covering the one or more openings, wherein when flush solution is expelled through the one or more openings, the flush solution is directed by the sheath to flow along an outer surface of the catheter body, thereby creating a flush zone along a length of the outer surface of the catheter body. The flush catheter may be used in combination with an image catheter/probe such as an image catheter/probe utilized in OCT imaging systems.

Abstract: An endoscope apparatus and method are disclosed wherein first and second light beams, each having different center wavelengths, illuminate an object. A detector and a light receiver optical system are provided that receive back-scattered light from first and second illumination devices. A processor is provided that calculates a value corresponding to the size of particles that back-scatter light of the first and second light beams that are incident onto the object, with the calculated value being independent of the concentration of the particles. The first illumination device and the second illumination device are arranged in a specified manner so that a specified condition is satisfied.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for generating a high resolution image of a human body using a terahertz electromagnetic wave and an endoscope using the same are disclosed. In accordance with the present invention, a third laser beam and a terahertz electromagnetic wave excited by a first laser beam are radiated on a portion of a human body having a contrast agent adhered thereto to generate a high resolution image based on the terahertz electromagnetic wave reflected from the portion of the human body and a second laser beam.

Abstract: An optical coupler for coupling to a rotating catheter has a housing with a rotatable distal face and a stationary proximal face. The distal face has an eccentric port and a central port. A lens is disposed inside the housing to intercept a rotating collection beam emerging from the eccentric port and to re-direct the collection beam to a focus proximal to the lens as the collection beam rotates. A beam re-director disposed between the lens and the distal face is oriented to direct a delivery beam toward the central port.

Abstract: Systems for the stabilization of visualization catheters are described herein which facilitate the deployment and retraction of an imaging hood from a catheter. Such systems may include a deployment catheter and an imaging hood having one or more structural elements which may be integrated or advanced into the hood independently of the hood itself. Moreover, additional features such as rapid exchange ports may be integrated along the hood or along the catheter proximal to the hood to facilitate intravascular procedures and treatments.

Abstract: An automatic pullback catheter system (2) includes a disposable catheter assembly (6) mountable to a drive assembly (4). The drive assembly includes a body (8) to which a drive. chassis (14) is mounted for movement along a longitudinal path (16) by a motor (20) which rotates a longitudinal drive screw (22) selectively coupled to the drive chassis by a threaded clamp (24). A rotary drive motor (30), mounted to the drive chassis, rotates a first combined connector (34). The catheter assembly includes a hollow sheath (38) housing a rotatable and axially movable cable assembly (44). The sheath includes a proximal hub (42) mountable to the body. The cable assembly includes an elongate imaging cable (46) with a second combined connector (36) at its proximal end. The first and second combined connectors are blind matable connectors and provide for the longitudinal movement coupling, the rotary movement coupling and the data/information connection of the two connectors.

Abstract: Methods of moving or vibrating cantilevered optical fibers of scanning fiber devices are disclosed. In one aspect, a method may include vibrating the cantilevered optical fiber at an initial frequency that is substantially displaced from a resonant frequency of the cantilevered optical fiber. Then, the frequency of vibration of the cantilevered optical fiber may be changed over a period of time toward the resonant frequency. Light may be directed through an end of the cantilevered optical fiber while the cantilevered optical fiber is vibrated.

Abstract: The present invention provides scanning mechanisms for imaging probes using for imaging mammalian tissues and structures using high resolution imaging, including high frequency ultrasound and/or optical coherence tomography. The imaging probes include adjustable rotational drive mechanism for imparting rotational motion to an imaging assembly containing either optical or ultrasound transducers which emit energy into the surrounding area. The imaging assembly includes a scanning mechanism having including a movable member configured to deliver the energy beam along a path out of said elongate hollow shaft at a variable angle with respect to said longitudinal axis to give forward and side viewing capability of the imaging assembly. The movable member is mounted in such a way that the variable angle is a function of the angular velocity of the imaging assembly.

Abstract: In a catheter device and a method for in vivo activation of a photosensitizing drug in a vessel, endovascular tissue, and/or intraluminal tissue, a catheter carrying both an optical coherence tomography (OCT) lens, from which OCT imaging light is emitted, and a photodynamic therapy (PDT) lens from which photosensitizing drug-activating light is emitted, is inserted into a vessel containing a lesion to be treated. A photosensitizing drug is caused to be placed in the vessel as well, such as in the form of a coating on a stent or a coating on an exterior of a balloon carried by the catheter. Light is emitted from the PDT lens to activate the photosensitizing drug while light is simultaneously emitted from the OCT lens to obtain an OCT image to monitor the drug activation.

Abstract: An optical probe has multiple side-firing optical fibers which terminate in a linearly staggered fashion. A central fiber can be used as well. In diagnostic techniques, one fiber can be used as an emitter, while the others are used as receivers, or various fibers can be used as emitters and receivers at different times to form a map of the area. In therapeutic techniques, the treatment light can be emitted from the fibers in parallel or in sequence, and the fluence can be independently adjusted for each of the fibers.

Abstract: The “Smart Tool” includes a “Smart Tool Probe” and two processing modules. The Smart Tool Probe is a hand held, wired or wireless, device that a surgeon utilizes for interrogating and identifying a tissue site, such as the entrance to a pedicle. The processing units, an Electro-Optical Control (EOC) Module and a CDS Module, provide control and display capabilities enabling real-time tissue site (such as vertebra bone) interrogation. The Smart Tool Probe utilizes a system of optical fibers that carry the interrogating optical signal sent by the light source(s) and the reflected optical signal back to the optical receivers. The light source(s) and light receivers are located in the EOC Module. The data received from the EOC Module are processed and converted into an image which is displayed on the screen in real-time. The software installed on the machine allows the surgeon to adjust/enhance the image properties to suit the selected requirements.

Abstract: The apparatus and methods described herein enable an operator to simultaneously collect images and spectroscopic information from a region(s) of interest using a multiple modality imaging and/or spectroscopic probe, configured as a catheter, endoscope, microscope, or hand held probe. The device may incorporate, for example, an ultrasonic transducer and a fiber optic probe to translate images and spectra. The apparatus and methods may be used in any suitable cavity, for example, the vascular system of a mammal.

Abstract: An optoelectronic probe system with all-optical coupling includes an optoelectronic measuring console coupled with an optoelectronic probe via an optical connector. A supplemental optical signal having an operative wavelength other than an operative wavelength of the regular optical part of the optoelectronic measuring console is communicated to the optoelectronic probe along with the output signal from the optoelectronic measuring console. The supplemental optical signal is then selected by a wavelength-division multiplexer, converted to an electrical signal and used for powering respective components of the optoelectronic probe. Auxiliary signals are also used for identification and storing calibration parameters of the optoelectronic probe, counting events, such as number of sessions used, time in use, and the like.

Abstract: An OCT optical probe to be inserted into a subject includes: a cylindrical sheath to be inserted into a subject; an optical fiber disposed in the internal space of the sheath; a rotatably-supporting portion fixed to the optical fiber in the vicinity of a distal end of the optical fiber; a distal optical system to deflect light emitted from the distal end of the optical fiber toward the subject; a holding portion to hold the distal optical system such that the optical system is rotatably supported by the rotatably-supporting portion; and a flexible shaft covering the optical fiber in the internal space, wherein the holding portion is fixed to a distal end of the flexible shaft. Using the OCT optical probe of the invention, the problem of degradation of measurement accuracy due to optical insertion loss and optical reflection loss at a rotary joint can be eliminated inexpensively and safely.

Abstract: In a method to support the diagnosis and/or therapy of a pathological change of a blood vessel of a patient, in particular in the context of coronary heart disease at a first point in time of a pixel-based or voxel-based first image is acquired with the blood vessel of interest by an imaging method, a determination is made from the first image of a quantity of existing non-calcified plaque and a quantity of existing calcium-rich plaque, a determination of a first indicator value is made from the quantities of the different plaque types that represents a measurement of the quantity and the composition of plaque present in the blood vessel at the first point in time, a comparison of the first indicator value is made with at least one limit value stored in a storage of a data processing device, and dependent on the comparison, a presentation is made on an output unit associated with the electronic data processing device of either a proposal for a measure to be undertaken on the patient, or a proposal for no meas

Abstract: A fiber optic force sensing assembly for detecting forces imparted at a distal end of a catheter assembly. The structural member may include segments adjacent each other in a serial arrangement, with gaps located between adjacent segments that are bridged by flexures. Fiber optics are coupled to the structural member. In one embodiment, each fiber optic has a distal end disposed adjacent one of the gaps and oriented for emission of light onto and for collection of light reflected from a segment adjacent the gap. The optical fibers cooperate with the deformable structure to provide a change in the intensity of the reflected light, or alternatively to provide a variable gap interferometer for sensing deformation of the structural member. In another embodiment, the gaps are bridged by fiber Bragg gratings that reflect light back through the fiber optic at central wavelengths that vary with the strain imposed on the grating.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and devices for detection of hospital acquired infections. Disclosed methods may be utilized for continuous in vivo monitoring of a potential infection site or for periodic in vitro monitoring of tissue or fluid from a patient and may be utilized to alert patients and/or health care providers to the presence of a pathogen at an early stage of infection. Disclosed methods utilize fluorophore pairs that optically interact with one another according to Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET) or bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) mechanism. One member of the pair or a cofactor that interacts with an enzyme to form a member of the pair may be tethered to a device by a substrate that is specific for an enzyme expressed by a targeted pathogen. Upon interaction of the enzyme with the substrate, an optically detectable signal may be altered or initiated, detection of which may then provide information as to the existence of the pathogen at the site.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and devices for continuous in vivo monitoring of a potential bacterial infection site. Disclosed devices may be utilized to alert patients and/or health care providers to the presence of pathogenic bacteria at an early stage of a hospital acquired infection, thereby providing for earlier intervention and improved recovery rates from bacterial infection. Disclosed methods utilize optical fibers to deliver an excitation signal to an area in which pathogenic bacteria may exist. In the presence of the excitation signal, bacterial pathogens may autofluoresce with a unique spectral signature. Upon generation of a fluorescent emission, an optically detectable emission signal may be transmitted to a detection/analysis device.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention provides a patient tissue state monitoring system with a light source; a light detector; a probe adapted to be inserted into a patient to transmit light from the light source to an organ tissue site and to direct light from the organ tissue site to the detector; and a processor programmed to determine tissue state with respect to a tissue site pre-dysoxia point from a fluorescence emission detected by the detector (such as by determining tissue NADH concentration) and to provide an indication of tissue state through an output device (such as by displaying a numerical value corresponding to the fluorescence emission).

Abstract: Catheter device for insertion into a vessel of a human or animal body, comprising a guide catheter and, incorporated in same, an OCT catheter with an OCT imaging device, the guide catheter having a balloon inflatable via a supply line for occluding the vessel, as well as a device for delivering a liquid or gas to the vascular region to be recorded by means of the OCT imaging device, in particular the vascular region located distally to the balloon, wherein there is provided on the guide catheter a second inflatable balloon spaced apart from the first balloon for occluding the vessel, wherein the section of the guide catheter between the two balloons is transparent, at least in sections, to the OCT radiation emittable by the OCT imaging device disposed inside the guide catheter.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of an apparatus for obtaining data for at least one portion within at least one luminal or hollow sample can be provided. For example, the exemplary apparatus can include a first optical arrangement configured to transceive at least one electromagnetic radiation to and from the portion. A second arrangement may be provided that can at least partially enclose the first arrangement. At least one third arrangement may be provided which is configured to be actuated so as to expand, at least in part, beyond a periphery of the second arrangement. Such exemplary third arrangement can be structured to facilitate a fluid flow and/or a gas flow therethrough. Further, a fourth arrangement may be provided which can be structured to (i) actuate a particular number of the third arrangement and/or (ii) adjust a distance between at least two outer portions of the third arrangement. According to one exemplary embodiment, the third arrangement can be a plurality of the third arrangements.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an optical contact sensor for a spectroscopic probe. The sensor detects contact of the distal end of a fiber optic probe to a surface being measured. The system can be used to correct Raman spectral measurements of tissue.

Abstract: A laser system for a spectroscopic catheter system uses multiple semiconductor gain media having gain peaks at different wavelengths. The output from the gain media is preferably coupled into single-mode fiber using conventional opto-electronic packaging techniques. As a result, the laser oscillator source has a spectral output that is wider than the gain bandwidth of a single medium to enable it to access the entire spectrum of interest, which is presently in the near infrared. Moreover, the semiconductor gain media can be packaged in a stable and controlled environment for long-term performance.

Abstract: Apparatus and method to perform therapeutic treatment and diagnosis of a patient's vasculature through the use of an intravascular device having an optical fiber disposed therein. In an embodiment of this invention, the apparatus includes a therapeutic guidewire and at least one optical fiber disposed through the therapeutic guidewire, the optical fiber capable of providing diagnostic information before, during, and after the therapeutic treatment. In an embodiment, diagnostic information includes vessel and blood characteristics such as hemodynamic characteristics, hematological parameters related to blood and blood components, and thermal parameters of the vasculature.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method for locating foreign objects on the internal surface of ear and ear canal whereby a probe having a light emitting distal portion is inserted into the ear canal, the method further comprising the steps of:—directing light from the distal portion of the probe to illuminate at least one point or the internal circumferential surface of the ear and/or ear canal,—receiving the light reflected from the illuminated surface, and directing the received light to at least one light sensitive element to generate an output,—analyzing the output with respect to spectral composition in order to identify foreign objects. The invention also relates to an apparatus for locating foreign objects on the internal surface of ear and ear canal.

Abstract: A device and method for determining the effect of therapy in a tumour tissue of a human or a mammal under interstitial photodynamic or photothermal therapy by analyzing a liquid flow in a tissue of a human or a mammal. A first fibre is interstitially inserted in a first position of said tissue and connected to a light source, and a second fibre is interstitially inserted in a second position of said tissue for receiving light emitted from the first fibre. A detector is arranged for receiving the light from said second fibre for producing an output signal. An analysator receives the output signal from the detector and determines if there is a frequency component in the frequency area below about 1 MHz in the output signal, which is indicative of blood cell movement in the tissue. If the frequency component is below a threshold value, it is determined that there is no blood flow. In photothermal therapy, no blood flow is interpreted as the fact that the blood has coagulated and the therapy may be finalized.

Abstract: A medical examination device used for the detection of pre-cancerous and cancerous tissue has an illumination source, a visualization unit, a contacting optical probe, a detector and a process unit. One embodiment of the apparatus includes both a non-contacting macroscopic viewing device (the visualization unit) for visualizing an interior surface of the cervix, as well as a fiber optic wand (contacting optical probe) for spectrally analyzing a microscopic view of the tissue.

Abstract: A method elucidates reaction dynamics of photoreactive compounds from time-resolved optical signals affected by an external magnetic field. A coil or magnet applies a magnetic field at a region of interest (ROI). A light or laser illuminates the ROI with a probe beam. An optical fiber collects light emitted by the probe beam; and a computer analyses the collected light.

Abstract: A medical examination device used for the detection of pre-cancerous and cancerous tissue has an illumination source, a visualization unit, a contacting optical probe, a detector and a process unit. One embodiment of the apparatus includes both a non-contacting macroscopic viewing device (the visualization unit) for visualizing an interior surface of the cervix, as well as a fiber optic wand (contacting optical probe) for spectrally analyzing a microscopic view of the tissue.

Abstract: A scanned beam imaging system including a radiation source configured to provide a beam of radiation, a movable element configured to direct the beam of radiation onto a scanned area, and a collector configured to receive radiation returned from the scanned area. The imaging system further includes a housing that houses the movable element therein and a reference mark coupled to or received in the housing. The reference mark is positioned such that at least part of the radiation from the radiation source is directable at the reference mark.

Abstract: Micro-optical imaging is facilitated. According to an example embodiment, a micro-optical probe arrangement includes a GRIN-type lens probe to direct light to and from a specimen. Compensation optics tailored to the probe and aberrations introduced by the lens are located in a light path through the lens, and compensate for the introduced aberrations. A light detector detects light from the specimen, as facilitated by the compensation optics, and generates data characterizing an image of the specimen.

Abstract: A micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) probe package is provided including a first reflective element receiving a light beam directed into to the probe package and a second reflective element receiving light directed from the first reflective element. The second reflective element directs light in an optical path extending from the probe package. At least one of the reflective elements includes a MEMS mirror. An embodiment of the package is made with a monolithic housing having mounting surfaces formed therein for aligning the first reflective element with the second reflective element. The monolithic housing also includes a mounting surface for aligning at least one lens with at least one of the reflective elements.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods and devices for characterizing tissue in vivo, e.g., in walls of blood vessels, to determine whether the tissue is healthy or diseased.

Abstract: A multi-cladding optical fiber includes a core that conveys visible light used by a scanner for imaging a site within a patient's body, and an inner cladding that conveys high-power light, such as infrared light, used for providing therapy to site. The distal end of multi-cladding optical fiber is driven to scan the site when imaging or rendering therapy using an actuator. High-power light is coupled into inner cladding at proximal end of optical fiber using several different techniques. Some techniques use an axicon to direct the high-power light into the inner cladding, while visible light is coupled directly into the core. Another technique uses a multimode optical fiber in a coupling relationship with the multi-cladding optical fiber, to transfer high-power light from a core of the multimode fiber into the inner cladding of the multi-cladding optical fiber.

Abstract: An erythema meter includes a probe, a light source of one or more specific probing and reference wavelengths, and an acoustic detector which determines the level of erythema present in the dental pulp chamber of a tooth. The probing and reference wavelengths are delivered in pulsed or amplitude modulated fashion through the probe, thereby permitting electronic identification and filtering of the received data. The absorption of the light wave raises the temperature of the material in the tooth and causes it to expand, thus creating tiny shockwaves which are picked up with the acoustic detector, revealing information on the location of blood and the quantity of blood inside the tooth. The erythema meter accurately measures the erythema, or inflammation, within the tooth in a qualitative and quantitative manner.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for scanned beam imagers and scanned beam endoscopes that utilize multiple light collectors are disclosed. In one aspect, a scanned beam imager is disclosed. The scanned beam imager includes a scanned beam source operable to scan a beam onto a region of interest of an object. The scanned beam imager further includes a first light collector structured to collect light reflected from the region of interest and a second light collector positionable relative to the scanning tip. The second light collector structured to collect light transmitted through the region of interest.