Abstract: A medical device comprising a least one photocatalytic layer or superhydrophilic layer. In some embodiments, the medical device comprises a waveguide. In some embodiments, the medical device comprises an electrode comprising an optically transparent conductive oxide. In some embodiments, the medical device comprises a electroluminescent layer. In some embodiments, the medical device comprises a photovoltaic cell. According to some embodiments, the medical device comprises a doped semiconductor oxide. A method for increasing the energy efficiency of a photocatalytic surface comprises electrically biasing a transparent conductive oxide layer. A method for illuminating a complex three-dimensional surface comprises illuminating a photocatalytic layer with electromagnetic radiation from an electroluminescent layer. A method for removing or preventing the formation of organic matter on a sensor window.

Abstract: A miniature light device delivers high energy modular photonic energy to an internal tissue region for diagnostic and/or therapeutic purposes. The miniature light device is a light source that can be placed at or near a distal end of an interventional device, providing localized application of energy in an efficient and cost effective manner.

Abstract: Optical ear infection treatment device and methods are described where an LED and optical light pipe are used to deliver the light from the LED to the middle ear of a patient to reduce bacterial growth and/or eliminate bacteria. Typically, the device is placed in the ear and then activated by the user by pressing an activation button. Once activated the control electronics will turn on the LED and perform a treatment. The most basic treatment mode comprises turning on the LED at maximum power for a predetermined period, e.g. 30 minutes, 60 minutes. When the preset duration is completed, the device will notify the user by an audible beep or vibration that the treatment is complete. Once completed, the user can remove the device, the treatment could be repeated once a day or for extreme cases multiple times during the day.

Abstract: A laser energy delivery device is provided that is suitable for irradiating a body tissue with relatively long wavelength laser energy in the presence of an aqueous liquid without significant absorption of the laser energy by the liquid. The device includes an elongate hollow sheath that has an open aperture at its distal end portion and closed at its proximal end, a laser energy conduit such as an optical fiber or hollow wave guide, within the sheath, the distal end of the conduit being disposed near the open aperture at the distal end portion of the sheath, and the proximal end of the conduit being adapted for connection to a source of long wavelength laser energy. The sheath also includes an inlet port, spaced from the proximal end of the sheath, and adapted to receive and deliver a biologically compatible gas through the sheath to a body tissue site in contact with the open distal end of the sheath.

Abstract: A light therapy device for rhinitis treatment. The light therapy device includes a hollow tube body with a longitudinal axis, being dimensioned and configured to permit insertion into a nostril of a treatment subject. A light emitting diode package disposed within the hollow tube body includes a first LED chip as a red light source and a second LED chip as an infrared light source. The first LED chip and the second LED chip are at different plane substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A resection device includes an elongated probe shaft and a tissue resection member disposed at a distal end of the elongated probe shaft. The tissue resection member has a cutting surface configured for being placed in contact with tissue. In one aspect of the invention, at least one ejection port is located adjacent to the cutting surface of the tissue resection member, wherein the at least one ejection port is coupled to a source of a polymerizable hemostasis-promoting material that is delivered to the resection site of interest. In certain embodiments, polymerization of the hemostasis-promoting material may be accelerated by application of heat, radiofrequency energy, or ultra violet light.

Abstract: This invention relates to an implantable device that delivers an effective amounts of red light to the substantia nigra as a treatment for Parkinson's Disease (PD).

Abstract: Physically flexible radiation-emitting probes and associated illumination methods and systems for delivering radiation or light to the interior of a lumen or cavity. Light-emitting devices are immersed in a flowing liquid coolant within a probe to provide high light output power, and convoluted electrical power buss structures provide physical flexibility of a probe about a longitudinal axis. The probes can be configured for delivering light to the interior of any lumen including for performing therapeutic medical procedures at locations in body lumens including the interior of the human gastrointestinal tract.

Abstract: A phototherapeutical apparatus and method are described. The apparatus includes an ultraviolet light source, an optical guidance system, and a patient interface. The patient interface is insertable at least partially into a body cavity and is operable to apply the guided ultraviolet light to a tissue surface of a body cavity. The method includes providing the phototherapeutical apparatus, preparing for the application of the phototherapeutical apparatus, inserting the patient interface at least partially into a body cavity, and applying the ultraviolet light by the patient interface to a tissue surface of a body cavity, wherein the tissue of the body cavity has an inflammatory or a hyperproliferative disease. The inflammatory diseases include rhinitis, sinusitis and rhinosinusitis. A photochemotherapeutical method is also described, using photosensitizing substances, such as psoralen before treatment with ultraviolet light.

Abstract: This surgical device uses a laser beam to coagulate tissue. The elongate device carries the beam through an optical fiber that has a chamfered end for deflecting the beam out of a distal end of the device at an angle. Tissue coagulation is monitored using a magnetic resonance imaging system that provides periodic tissue temperature data. A small fluid supply duct provides cooling fluid that expands to a gas near the distal end of the device, thereby cooling the tip.

Abstract: Methods for delivering light to a treatment site of a patient to administer a light therapy thereto are provided. A method includes steps of providing a portable power source, and a light source configured to provide light suitable for the light therapy for a period of at least two hours, and an optical fiber; positioning a distal portion of the optical fiber that is adapted to be disposed at the treatment site within a patient's body, where the light generated by the light source and conveyed by the optical fiber exits from the distal portion of the optical fiber; energizing the light source with the portable power supply; and administering the light treatment to the treatment site with the light source, wherein the patient is ambulatory without interruption of the light therapy during the treatment.

Abstract: A laser energy delivery device and method are provided for irradiating a body tissue with relatively long wavelength laser energy in the presence of an aqueous liquid without significant absorption of the laser energy by the liquid. The device includes an elongate hollow sheath that is open at its distal end and closed at its proximal end, a laser energy conduit such as an optical fiber or hollow waveguide, within the sheath, the distal end of the conduit being disposed near the open distal end of the sheath, and the proximal end of the conduit being adapted for connection to a source of long wavelength laser energy. The sheath also includes an inlet port, spaced from the proximal end of the sheath, and adapted to receive and deliver a biologically compatible gas through the sheath to a body tissue site in contact with the open distal end of the sheath.

Abstract: A scanning optical system for delivering electromagnetic radiation onto tissue to be treated is cooperative with a lightguide or optical fiber. Radiation to be delivered is provided by a source thereof via the optical fiber. The optical system includes an optical projection arrangement comprising a plurality of lenses cooperatively arranged with the lightguide. A first of the lenses is arranged to receive radiation emerging from the lightguide. The beam of radiation is passed through the projection arrangement to form a treatment spot the radiation on the tissue. Scanning is effected by causing relative motion between the exit-end of said lightguide and at least the first lens, transverse to the optical axis of the projection arrangement. The treatment spot undergoes a related transverse motion over the tissue. In one example scanning is effected by moving the first lens with the lightguide fixed. The first lens is moved using an arrangement of piezo-electric actuators.

Abstract: A system and method for treating cells of a site in the body, such as at a lens capsule or choroid of an eye. The system and method employs an energy emitting device, and a positioning device, adapted to position the energy emitting device at a position in relation to the cells at the site in the body, such as the cells of the choroid or the lens capsule, so that energy emitted from the energy emitting device heats the cells to a temperature which is above body temperature and below a temperature at which protein denaturation occurs in the cells, to kill the cells or impede multiplication of the cells. The energy emitting device can also include a container containing a heated fluid that can include indocyanine green, which heats the cells to the desired temperature. Alternatively, the energy emitting device can include a laser diode, or a probe that emits radiation, such as infrared or ultraviolet radiation, laser light, microwave energy or ultrasonic energy.

Abstract: A fiber optic endoilluminator surgical instrument for projecting illuminating light into an interior of an eyeball includes a finger grip member and an elongated passageway through the finger grip member. A hollow rigid needle, adapted to penetrate into the interior of the eyeball, slidably extends from one end of the grip member. An optical fiber extends through the needle and the grip member, and a lever is connected to the needle for allowing the needle to be moved to and fro with respect to the grip member for varying the amount of optical fiber exposed at an illumination end portion of the fiber. By covering the illumination end portion with the needle, a spot of illumination is provided for viewing a comparatively smaller portion of the interior of the eyeball. By uncovering the illumination end portion, a flood of illumination is provided for viewing a comparatively larger portion of the interior of the eyeball.

Abstract: A method for inhibiting or suppressing stenosis associated with an arteriovenous access. A dosage of photosensitive compound is introduced into the artery or vein. An anastomotic area of the artery or vein is then exposed to a source of light having a wavelength suitable for photoactivating the photosensitive compound for a period of time sufficient to provide a therapeutic effect. A method is also described for the delivery of drugs into the anastomotic site of an AV access to inhibit the formation of stenotic lesions at those sites.

Abstract: Atherosclerotic vascular disease is treated by exposing the interior of an artery or vein to visible or ultraviolet light of a selected spectrum to thereby sterilize the artery, eradicating infectious pathogens and reverse the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic artery disease. A fiber optic bundle positioned via an intra-arterial catheter is connected to an appropriate light radiation source located outside of the body during treatment. In another form, the light energy is produced by means of a light energy source located at the distal tip of the instrument shaft positioned centrally within the atherosclerotic plaque formation. In this case, the power source at the distal tip of the instrument can be a light emitting diode (LED) or a transparent tube containing a chemilumlumenescent substance for producing cool light energy within the vessel to destroy the pathogenic microorganisms in the surrounding plaque or vessel without damage to the body tissue of the patient.

Abstract: A catheter device suitable for shrinking chordae tendineae of the human heart is provided having an energy conduit and a positioning device that facilitates the delivery of thermal energy, including coherent (laser) or non-coherent light, RF, microwave or ultrasound energy, to a predetermined region of the chordae tendineae or other collagen-containing tissue, such as the female urethra or the esophagus near the sphincter. The device comprises a tubular catheter containing an energy conduit, such as a fiber optic cable, adapted for delivering thermal energy to the tissue. The tubular catheter also contain a stabilizing device, disposed at its distal end, such as an asymmetrically shaped balloon or a retractable flexible metal hook. With the distal end of the catheter device positioned within a human heart, application of thermal energy to the chordae tendineae results in a shrinkage of the chordae, providing a treatment for primary mitral valve regurgitation.

Abstract: Fibrosis, in at least one layer of a vessel wall, can be used to strengthen a vessel wall. Fibrosis can be induced by irradiating a vessel wall with an energy source, or by inducing injury to the vessel wall. In addition to an energy source, photoactivatable agents can also be used such that the energy activates the photoactivatable agent to cause a thickening of the vessel wall. For example, ultra-violet radiation can be used alone or in conjunction with a photoactivatable agent, such as a psoralen compound, to increase the adventitial volume of a blood vessel. Upon exposure to radiation, preferably ultra-violet A radiation, the photoactivatable agent becomes activated and causes compositional and/or structural changes in the adventitia. The invention provides a method of treating aneurysms by thickening the adventitial layer of the vessel wall at the site of the aneurysm.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of use are disclosed to treat and/or diagnose urological disorders. The non-implantable device includes a light source housed within a light source segment. The light source segment is of a sufficiently small size and configuration so that it can be inserted through the urethra and positioned adjacent the target site in the patient. Different types of light sources can be used to achieve a variety of energy levels and distributions useful in treating incontinence disorders. Both incoherent and coherent light sources may be used with the present invention. In addition, the light from the light source can be designed to be pulsed or continuous wave and may be in any suitable spectrum, including visible (such as white light) and infrared. The particular characteristics of the light emitted from the light source, such as wavelength, frequency, amplitude, etc., depend upon the particular treatment and procedure.

Abstract: A laser irradiation apparatus comprising: a long and slender main body 101; an optical fiber 107, which is placed inside the main body 101 and which is equipped with a proximal end through which a laser ray is introduced and an emitting part from which the laser ray is emitted sideways or diagonally; and a reflecting member 151, which is affixed inside said main body 101 and reflects laser ray emitted from the optical fiber 107. The emitting part of the optical fiber 107 is capable of making a reciprocating motion in the lengthwise direction inside the main body 101 within the specified range. The reflecting member 151 has a reflecting surface 152 that changes its reflecting angle as the emitting part of the optical fiber 107 moves along its reciprocating movement range.

Abstract: An energy irradiation apparatus for medical treatment of tissues through irradiation of energy including a long main unit, an emitting part, a power transmission member, a drive mechanism, a first engaging member, and a second engaging is disclosed. The emitting part is disposed moveably inside a distal end of the main unit for emitting energy transmitted to a distal side from a proximal side. The power transmission member is disposed moveable inside the main unit. The emitting part is mounted to a distal end of the power transmission member. The drive mechanism reciprocates the power transmission member in a longitudinal direction of the main unit. The first engaging member is provided inside the power transmission member for receiving a drive force from the drive mechanism. The second engaging member is provided in the drive mechanism for engaging removably with the first engaging member.

Abstract: Transurethral catheter (10) for the heat treatment of body tissue surrounding the catheter, including an elongated light carrier (11). A light receiving and light distributing elongated light probe (12) is operatively connected to said light carrier (11), and the light probe (12) comprises light reflecting surfaces (13) for preventing received light from escaping from the probe (12). At least one light emitting section (14) is formed in the probe (12) for emitting light into said body tissue.

Abstract: Disclosed herein catheters, assemblies comprising a single-lumen catheter having one or more sources of electro-magnetic radiation disposed within the wall of said catheter. Methods of using these catheters and assemblies are also provided.

Abstract: Photodynamic therapy (PDT), the light activation of methylene blue or benzoporphyrin derivatives to produce free-radicals, was shown in vivo to inhibit intimal hyperplasia (IH) and restenosis. The present invention provides an effective clinical approach for PDT treatment which modulates the vascular intervention injury healing response.

Abstract: A laser surgical device for removal of intraocular tissue including a handpiece and a tip. The handpiece has a sleeve that creates a passage way for irrigation fluid. An optic fiber or similar light conveying means is contained within the handpiece. A passageway for aspiration is included in the handpiece and continues into the tip. The tip is configured with a photon trap that captures stray laser light and prevents it from continuing into the eye.

Abstract: Disclosed herein catheters, assemblies comprising a single-lumen catheter having one or more sources of electromagnetic radiation disposed within the wall of said catheter. Methods of using these catheters and assemblies are also provided.

Abstract: A light stint implant device adapted to be surgically implanted in a major blood vessel for assisting in the treatment of long term viral infection, alone or in combination with anti-viral drugs, is disclosed. The implant device is programmed for set periods of illumination and set periods of dormancy through a remote power supply and timing device accessible through a sub-dermal implant adapted to be surgically placed in a location under the skin. The device, after being implanted within such blood vessel will eliminate viruses located within the blood through exposure to light given off by the light stint implant device during the periods of illumination.

Abstract: The present invention provides an optical device/method for enhancing local administration of pharmaceutical compounds and/or collection of biomaterials. Such device/method is used for various situations which require high concentrations of drugs that are delivered locally.

Abstract: Generally, the present invention provides a device for insertion into a body of a subject being treated to deliver localized x-ray radiation, and a method for fabricating such a device. The device includes a cathode structure that has a thin, diamond film as a cathode. The device further comprises a vacuum housing and an anode. A method for fabricating a device for localized x-ray radiation is described which includes the formation of a thin diamond film on a getter at temperatures below an activation temperature of the getter.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of use are disclosed to treat and/or diagnose urological disorders. The non-implantable device includes a light source housed within a light source segment. The light source segment is of a sufficiently small size and configuration so that it can be inserted through the urethra and positioned adjacent the target site in the patient. Different types of light sources can be used to achieve a variety of energy levels and distributions useful in treating incontinence disorders. Both incoherent and coherent light sources may be used with the present invention. In addition, the light from the light source can be designed to be pulsed or continuous wave and may be in any suitable spectrum, including visible (such as white light) and infrared. The particular characteristics of the light emitted from the light source, such as wavelength, frequency, amplitude, etc., depend upon the particular treatment and procedure.

Abstract: A device for the irradiation of internal cavities of the body includes a flexible catheter, made of a transparent material, containing a fiber optic of which the section at one end is designed to radially diffuse light coming from a source arranged at the other end. An inflatable balloon fixed to one end of the catheter surrounds the diffusing section of the fiber optic. The balloon is made of an elastomeric material that diffuses the light and is prefabricated by molding based on the shape of the cavity to be treated. The balloon presses against the cavity wall and, with the thickness of its surfaces remaining constant after inflation, the pressure needed for inflation is low and cannot damage the cavity tissues.

Abstract: A method of modifying the force of contraction of at least a portion of a heart chamber, including providing a subject having a heart, comprising at least a portion having an activation, and applying a non-excitatory electric field having a given duration, at a delay after the activation, to the portion, which causes the force of contraction to be increased by at least 5%.

Abstract: A localized heat applying medical device is provided for applying heat to tissue adjacent a patient's tubal ostia in order to close the patient's fallopian tubes and sterilize the patient. Procedures of performing sterilizations are also disclosed.

Abstract: An improved endoscopic device which is introduced into the intestinal tract of a living organism and which operates autonomously therein, adapted to obtain and store or transmit one or more types of data such as visual image data, laser autofluorescensce data, or ultrasonic waveform data. In another aspect of the invention, an improved endoscopic device useful for implanting the aforementioned endoscopic smart probe is disclosed. In another aspect of the invention, apparatus for delivering agents including nanostructures, radionuclides, medication, and ligands is disclosed. In another aspect of the invention, apparatus for obtaining a biopsy of intestinal tissue is disclosed. In another aspect of the invention, apparatus for detecting the presence of one or more molecular species within the intestine is disclosed. Methods for inspecting and/or treating the interior regions of the intestinal tract using the aforementioned apparatus is also disclosed.

Abstract: A holistic method of therapeutic laser treatment for body tissues in a problematic area, comprising the following steps: using a laser discharge probe to irradiate the tissues in the problematic area and additionally treating a body energy path through the problematic area by irradiating the body tissues along an energy path, as defined in Eastern medicine, through the problematic area so that energy flow is normalized in the problematic area. One aspect of this provides for a method as above wherein the energy flow path comprises meridians of energy flow as defined in acupuncture and wherein treatment points along the energy flow path comprise acupuncture points. In yet another preferred aspect, the energy flow path comprises Jin Shin Jyutsu energy flow paths and the treatment points along the energy flow paths comprise energy spheres. Stimulating tissue along an energy path in the body rectifies energy flow through the specific body area and thereby alleviate problems in that area of concern.

Abstract: Several different embodiments of a flexible polymer battery are disclosed in connection with providing a medical therapy. For example, the electrical current from the polymer battery may be used to energize light sources for administering light therapy. In one embodiment, the polymer battery is formed as a substantially elongate structure having one end attached to an internal receiver coil, and the other end attached to a medical device such as a light probe that is adapted to be implanted within a patient's body. The polymer battery thus provides a conductive link between the internal receiver coil, which is electromagnetically coupled to an external transmitter coil for recharging the battery, and the light probe which is energized with current supplied by the flexible polymer battery. In another embodiment, the polymer battery is used to support a substrate on which a plurality of light sources are mounted in spaced-apart array.

Abstract: An acoustic therapy apparatus has a source of therapeutic acoustic waves and an ultrasound locating means with an ultrasound transducer, wherein the source and the ultrasound transducer are combined to form an oblong applicator with a longitudinal axis provided for introduction into the body interior of a patient, the ultrasound locating system generating ultrasound images with respect to a plane that contains the longitudinal axis of the applicator. The source and the ultrasound transducer are disposed relative to each other in the applicator so that the source and the ultrasound transducer are successively arranged in the direction of the longitudinal axis, with the ultrasound transducer being arranged preceding the source the in introduction direction, and the center axis of the plane describing an angle of less than 90° with that section of the longitudinal axis of the applicator located in the region of the source so that the center axis is inclined toward the source.

Abstract: Progress of photodynamic therapy (PDT) administered over an extended period of time is monitored using an ultrasonic probe, which produces ultrasound images of an internal treatment site in real time. The ultrasound images indicate the extent and volume of an infarction zone within a tumor or other diseased tissue at the internal treatment site within a patient's body. Light is administered to the internal treatment site from either an internal or external light source that produces light in a waveband corresponding to the characteristic absorption waveband a photoreactive agent that is administered to a patient. Prior to or shortly after initiating administration of the light therapy, a baseline ultrasound image is produced for comparison to subsequent ultrasound images made after the effects of the PDT on the diseased tissue have occurred.

Abstract: Systems and methods for determining an effective amount of light energy to deliver to fluids, particularly fluids having target and non-target materials. The systems and methods specifically relate to phototherapy and photopheresis systems where an effective amount of light energy is desired to be delivered to targets in biological fluids.

Abstract: A device and method for underskin laser treatment that is minimally invasive, versatile and precise, that allows for underskin laser treatment with only minimal insertions into the area of treatment. For example, an entire area may be treated with one insertion. The device and method incorporates a standard insertion component making the system inexpensive and easy for doctors to use. In addition, the the invention allows users to get in direct contact with the treatment site, eliminating deleterious side effects encountered when treatment is administered to the skin surface. The device and method has applications in several areas of treatment. First, underskin treatment of aesthetic skin blemishes such as sagging and wrinkles can be performed with minimal external effects. Laser power is delivered directly beneath the skin, bypassing harmful exposure of the skin surface to the radiation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a medical device including a tube and expandable member and one or more light sources disposed in an elongated member disposed in the tube. The light sources emit energy for photodynamic therapy through a window to the treatment area. The treatment device may further include a heat and/or light dissipating layer, such as a layer of gold alloy paint, or other light blocking material.

Abstract: A laser insole having one or many vertical cavity surface emitting lasers embedded therein may be worn by a patient and applied to an area of the foot. The device supplies the patient with a preprogrammed laser therapy regimen. A physician programs the device and inserts the device in a patient's shoe. The device is small enough to allow the patient's normal activities. The laser therapy regimen promotes healing of a wound on the foot. Alternatively, the device may adapted as a flexible device applied to the skin, or implanted into the body, or provided in a catheter that is inserted into a body region.

Abstract: There is provided a method of treating cancer. According to such a method, the affected tissue is irradiated effectively with activation light thereby obtaining an effect of the light treatment. The cancer therapeutic instrument used in the treatment method is equipped with a tube of which a tip is closed, a tip end of the tube being adapted to be inserted into a subject to be treated, and an optical fiber of which a tip end is adapted to be disposed slidably inside the tube.

Abstract: A method for treating a neoplasm, such as a malignant tumor, in humans and other animals, is disclosed. A chromophore and an immunoadjuvant are introduced into the neoplasm. The neoplasm is then lased at an irradiance sufficient to induce neoplastic cellular destruction and to stimulate the self-immunological defense system against neoplastic cellular multiplication.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for thermally obliterating biological tissues by laser radiation introduced into the tissue by means of an optical waveguide. The laser radiation is scattered by means associated with the radiation output surface of the optical waveguide. A biocompatible, medium to highly visquous liquid which does not substantially absorb the laser radiation but scatters it, is injected into the tissue, forming a scattering fluid deposit around the radiation output surface which is not separated from the tissue and which allows the tissue to be heated in a controlled manner.

Abstract: Ultraviolet (UV) blood irradiation apparatus for the in vitro irradiation of blood wherein an irradiation station receives blood and irradiates blood passing through the station and a substantially planar, tube-like, elliptically-shaped body made of a material that transmits UV wavelengths in the range of 2,000 and 12,000 angstroms and an input and an output port at opposite ends thereof for respectively inputing and outputing blood, respectively; a UV source generating a low heat output whereby the irradiation station does not require cooling; a peristaltic pump receiving blood from an animal or human and pumping it through the irradiation station and returning the blood to the animal or human after passage through the irradiation station; power control switches for respectively turning power on/off from a source of electric power, and electrically connected to the pump and the source for activating/deactivating the pump and the UV source, respectively; a housing in which the irradiation station, pump and po

Abstract: A light delivery catheter (2), for use in PDT treatments, includes a hollow sheath (4) with a balloon (24) at its distal end. Target tissue (33) at a target site on a hollow body organ, such as a blood vessel, is inoculated with an appropriate photosensitizing agent. A light guide (14) extends along the sheath and has a light-radiating portion or light source (20) at its end within the balloon. The balloon is positioned at the target site and target tissue is irradiated causing destruction of the target tissue. The balloon defines perfusion channels (30) when the balloon is inflated so that during use fluid can continue passing through the blood vessel. The light irradiating the vessel wall is preferably of generally equal intensity. This can be achieved in whole or in part in several different ways.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved balloon catheter apparatuses for use in therapies requiring delivery of uniform light to a treatment area. The improved apparatus comprises a balloon having a defined treatment window where the window is delineated using a reflective material. The apparatus may further comprise a fiber optic cable that terminates in a diffusion tip where the diffusion tip is longer than the treatment window. The present invention further provides improved therapeutic methods that use the improved balloon catheters of the present invention.

Abstract: A medical apparatus including implantable elongate probes for emitting diffused light energy within the interior of a tissue body to provide a uniform light dosage to the tissue body. In one particular embodiment, the probes may include a plurality of LEDs or VSCEL devices interspaced along the probe shaft. The invention further provides an planar or shaped alignment grid for aligning one or more probes within the tissue body.