Patent US5848209A successfully refreshed from Google Patents.
US5848209A
Expired / Lapsed
US
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Connection apparatus with optical fiber coding and detection means or with radiation emitter
Assignee: Indigo Medical Inc
•
Filing: 1997-11-26
•
Granted: 1998-12-08
•
Expires: 2017-11-26
Abstract
Abstract A fiber optic radiation transmission system is provided in which an optical fiber and a radiation source are connected to establish optical communication therebetween. Additionally, a connecting system is provided for connecting an optical fiber and a radiation source such that optical communication is established therebetween. The systems include a connector which carries the optical fiber therein. The connector is extendable within the system toward the radiation source to bring the optical fiber into optical communication with the radiation source. More particularly, the systems are configured in such a way that when the connector is extended sufficiently within the system, it seats the optical fiber relative to the radiation source under bias, thereby establishing a reliable optical connection. Once the optical connection is thus established, the connector engages a connection port associated with the radiation source to secure the system in a fully connected configuration appropriate for use. Thus, in a method of using such a system, the user simply extends the connector until the connector engages the connection port. The present invention thus provides efficient and reliable systems in which optical communication is established between an optical fiber and a radiation source.
Inventors
- 👤 William James Evans
- 👤 Thomas Henning
- 👤 Kelly Cox
- 👤 Victor C. Esch
- 👤 Yefim Gelfond
- 👤 Stephanos Papademetriou
- 👤 Daren L. Stewart
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-23 21:24
CPC Classifications
G; G02; G02B; G02B6/00; G02B6/24; G02B6/42; G02B6/4292; G02B6/36; G02B6/38; G02B6/3807; G02B6/3869; G02B6/4296; G02B2006/4297
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 220
Claim 1
Independent Claim
128 words
A fiber optic system for transmitting radiation from a radiation source, comprising: a radiation source associated with a connection port; an optical fiber having a radiation-transmitting end and a connection end; a ferrule surrounding said optical fiber, said ferrule having a shoulder, the connection end in optical communication with said radiation source when the shoulder is seated relative to said radiation source; and a connector carrying said ferrule therein such that the shoulder is accessible through a distal end of said connector, said connector including a biasing component of a construction sufficient to provide biasing force sufficient to seat the shoulder relative to said radiation source and a connecting portion of a construction sufficient to engage the connection port, said connector carrying information which identifies said optical fiber.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
128 words
A fiber optic system for transmitting radiation from a radiation source, comprising: a radiation source associated with a connection port; an optical fiber having a radiation-transmitting end and a connection end; a ferrule surrounding said optical fiber, said ferrule having a shoulder, the connection end in optical communication with said radiation source when the shoulder is seated relative to said radiation source; and a connector carrying said ferrule therein such that the shoulder is accessible through a distal end of said connector, said connector including a biasing component of a construction sufficient to provide biasing force sufficient to seat the shoulder relative to said radiation source and a connecting portion of a construction sufficient to engage the connection port, said connector carrying information which identifies said optical fiber.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
12 words
The system of claim 1 wherein the information includes a digital code.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 2 wherein the code is in the form of at least one band circumferentially surrounding said connector.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 1, further comprising at least one detector for detecting the information.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 4 wherein the detector is characterized by providing the system with irradiation parameters upon detection of the information.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
26 words
The system of claim 1, further comprising an emitter at the radiation-transmitting end, said emitter characterized by emitting light from a surface along a length thereof.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
18 words
The system of claim 6, further comprising a temperature sensor at a distal end portion of said emitter.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
16 words
The system of claim 6, further comprising a temperature sensor along a length of said emitter.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
18 words
The system of claim 6 wherein said emitter is adapted for insertion into a material to be treated.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 9 wherein the material is bodily tissue.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 10 wherein the tissue is prostatic tissue.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
14 words
The system of claim 11 wherein the tissue is affected by benign prostatic hypertrophy.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 10 wherein said emitter is adapted to irradiate the tissue sufficiently to necrose a volume thereof.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
147 words
A fiber optic system for transmitting radiation from a radiation source, comprising: a radiation source associated with a connection port; means for optically transmitting radiation, said transmitting means having a radiation-transmitting end and a connection end; means for positioning said transmitting means relative to said radiation source, said positioning means surrounding said transmitting means and having a shoulder, the connection end in optical communication with said radiation source when the shoulder is seated relative to said radiation source; and means for connecting said transmitting means to said radiation source, said connecting means carrying said positioning means therein such that the shoulder is accessible through a distal end of said connecting means, said connecting means including means for providing biasing force sufficient to seat the shoulder relative to said radiation source and means for engaging the connection port, said connecting means carrying means for identifying said transmitting means.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
147 words
A fiber optic system for transmitting radiation from a radiation source, comprising: a radiation source associated with a connection port; means for optically transmitting radiation, said transmitting means having a radiation-transmitting end and a connection end; means for positioning said transmitting means relative to said radiation source, said positioning means surrounding said transmitting means and having a shoulder, the connection end in optical communication with said radiation source when the shoulder is seated relative to said radiation source; and means for connecting said transmitting means to said radiation source, said connecting means carrying said positioning means therein such that the shoulder is accessible through a distal end of said connecting means, said connecting means including means for providing biasing force sufficient to seat the shoulder relative to said radiation source and means for engaging the connection port, said connecting means carrying means for identifying said transmitting means.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
13 words
The system of claim 14 wherein the identifying means includes a digital code.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 15 wherein the code is in the form of at least one band circumferentially surrounding said connecting means.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
13 words
The system of claim 14, further comprising means for detecting the identifying means.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 17 wherein said detecting means is characterized by providing the system with irradiation parameters upon detection of the identifying means.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
23 words
The system of claim 14, further comprising means for emitting light from a surface thereof, said emitting means disposed at the radiation-transmitting end.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 19, further comprising means for sensing temperature, said sensing means disposed at a distal end portion of said emitting means.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system of claim 19, further comprising means for sensing temperature disposed along a length of said emitting means.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system of claim 19 wherein said emitting means is adapted for insertion into a material to be treated.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 22 wherein the material is bodily tissue.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 23 wherein the tissue is prostatic tissue.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
14 words
The system of claim 24 wherein the tissue is affected by benign prostatic hypertrophy.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 23 wherein said emitting means is adapted to irradiate the tissue sufficiently to necrose a volume thereof.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
108 words
A fiber optic radiation delivery system, comprising: an optical fiber having first and second ends; a radiation emitter attached to the first end; and a connector carrying said optical fiber therein such that the second end is accessible through a distal end of said connector, said connector including a connecting portion, a biasing component and a seating surface, said connector adapted to seat said optical fiber via the seating surface under a biasing force provided by the biasing component and to connect said optical fiber via the connecting portion thereby to provide radiation between the first and second ends, said connector carrying information which identifies the optical fiber.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
108 words
A fiber optic radiation delivery system, comprising: an optical fiber having first and second ends; a radiation emitter attached to the first end; and a connector carrying said optical fiber therein such that the second end is accessible through a distal end of said connector, said connector including a connecting portion, a biasing component and a seating surface, said connector adapted to seat said optical fiber via the seating surface under a biasing force provided by the biasing component and to connect said optical fiber via the connecting portion thereby to provide radiation between the first and second ends, said connector carrying information which identifies the optical fiber.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
12 words
The system of claim 27 wherein the information includes a digital code.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 27 wherein the code is in the form of at least one band circumferentially surrounding said connector.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 27, further comprising at least one detector for detecting the information.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 30 wherein the detector is characterized by providing the system with irradiation parameters upon detection of the information.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 27 wherein said radiation emitter is adapted to emit radiation according to parameters determined by the information.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 27 wherein said radiation emitter is characterized by emitting light from a surface along a length thereof.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system of claim 27, further comprising a temperature sensor at a distal end portion of said radiation emitter.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
17 words
The system of claim 27, further comprising a temperature sensor along a length of said radiation emitter.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system of claim 27 wherein said radiation emitter is adapted for insertion into a material to be treated.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 36 wherein the material is bodily tissue.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 37 wherein the tissue is prostatic tissue.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
14 words
The system of claim 38 wherein the tissue is affected by benign prostatic hypertrophy.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 37 wherein said radiation emitter is adapted to irradiate the tissue sufficiently to necrose a volume thereof.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
123 words
A fiber optic radiation delivery system, comprising: means for optically transmitting radiation, said transmitting means having first and second ends; means for emitting radiation attached to the first end; and means for connecting said transmitting means, said connecting means carrying said transmitting means therein such that the second end is accessible through a distal end of said connecting means, said connecting means including a connecting portion, biasing means and seating means, said connecting means adapted to seat said transmitting means via the seating means under a biasing force provided by the biasing means and to connect said transmitting means via the connecting portion thereby to provide radiation between the first and second ends, said connecting means carrying means for identifying said transmitting means.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
123 words
A fiber optic radiation delivery system, comprising: means for optically transmitting radiation, said transmitting means having first and second ends; means for emitting radiation attached to the first end; and means for connecting said transmitting means, said connecting means carrying said transmitting means therein such that the second end is accessible through a distal end of said connecting means, said connecting means including a connecting portion, biasing means and seating means, said connecting means adapted to seat said transmitting means via the seating means under a biasing force provided by the biasing means and to connect said transmitting means via the connecting portion thereby to provide radiation between the first and second ends, said connecting means carrying means for identifying said transmitting means.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
13 words
The system of claim 41 wherein the identifying means includes a digital code.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 41 wherein the code is in the form of at least one band circumferentially surrounding said connecting means.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
12 words
The system of claim 41, further comprising means for detecting the information.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 44 wherein said detecting means is characterized by providing the system with irradiation parameters upon detection of the identifying means.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 41 wherein said emitting means is adapted to emit radiation according to parameters determined by the identifying means.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 41 wherein said emitting means is characterized by emitting light from a surface along a length thereof.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 41, further comprising means for sensing temperature, said sensing means disposed at a distal end portion of said emitting means.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 41, further comprising means for sensing temperature, said sensing means disposed along a length of said emitting means.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system of claim 41 wherein said emitting means is adapted for insertion into a material to be treated.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 50 wherein the material is bodily tissue.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 51 wherein the tissue is prostatic tissue.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
14 words
The system of claim 52 wherein the tissue is affected by benign prostatic hypertrophy.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 51 wherein said emitting means is adapted to irradiate the tissue sufficiently to necrose a volume thereof.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
141 words
A fiber optic system for emitting light from a source of light energy, comprising: a source of light energy associated with a connection port; an optical fiber having a light-transmitting end and a connection end; an emitter disposed at the light-transmitting end, said emitter characterized by emitting light from a surface along a length thereof; a ferrule surrounding said optical fiber, said ferrule having a shoulder, the connection end in optical communication with said source when the shoulder is seated relative to said radiation source; and a connector carrying said ferrule therein such that the shoulder is accessible through a distal end of said connector, said connector including a biasing component of a construction sufficient to provide biasing force sufficient to seat the shoulder relative to said source and a connecting portion of a construction sufficient to engage the connection port.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
141 words
A fiber optic system for emitting light from a source of light energy, comprising: a source of light energy associated with a connection port; an optical fiber having a light-transmitting end and a connection end; an emitter disposed at the light-transmitting end, said emitter characterized by emitting light from a surface along a length thereof; a ferrule surrounding said optical fiber, said ferrule having a shoulder, the connection end in optical communication with said source when the shoulder is seated relative to said radiation source; and a connector carrying said ferrule therein such that the shoulder is accessible through a distal end of said connector, said connector including a biasing component of a construction sufficient to provide biasing force sufficient to seat the shoulder relative to said source and a connecting portion of a construction sufficient to engage the connection port.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
77 words
The system of claim 55, said emitter comprising: a light-transmissive first material surrounding the light-transmitting end; and a light-transmissive second material surrounding said first material, said first and second materials defining a light guide when light is transmitted from the end of said optical fiber to said first material, said second material having an internal surface modified sufficiently to transmit light travelling along the light guide to an outside surface along a length of said second material.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
30 words
The system of claim 56 wherein along a length of said first material, said first material has an index of refraction that is greater than that of said second material.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 57 wherein said first material has an index of refraction from about 1.4 to about 1.8.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 57 wherein said second material has an index of refraction from about 1.3 to about 1.4.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 57 wherein said first material is silicone.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
12 words
The system of claim 57 wherein said second material is a fluoropolymer.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 57 wherein said second material is impregnated with BaSO 4 .
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 56 wherein the internal surface of said second material is abraded.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
25 words
The system of claim 63 wherein the internal surface of said second material is increasingly abraded along a length thereof towards a distal end thereof.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 56 wherein light is transmitted in a preselected direction relative to the outside surface of said second material.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 65 wherein the preselected direction is azimuthal with respect to the outside surface of said second material.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 65 wherein the preselected direction is along a length of the outside surface of said second material.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
26 words
The system of claim 56 wherein light is transmitted in a substantially uniform intensity profile along a length of the outside surface of said second material.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
33 words
The system of claim 56 wherein said second material forms a tip at a distal end thereof, said tip facilitating placement of said second material into a material selected for receiving light therefrom.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
35 words
The system of claim 56, further comprising a tip attached to said second material at a distal end thereof, said tip facilitating placement of said second material into a material selected for receiving light therefrom.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
17 words
The system of claim 69 or 70 wherein said tip is adapted for puncturing the selected material.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
59 words
The system of claim 56 wherein an exposed core of said optical fiber extends a distance into said first material and said first material and the core are selected such that when light is transmitted from the end of said optical fiber to said first material, light is transmissible from the core to said first material along that distance.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
28 words
The system of claim 72 wherein said first material has an index of refraction that is equal to or greater than that of the core along the distance.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system of claim 73 wherein said first material has an index of refraction from about 1.4 to 1.8.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system of claim 73 wherein the core has an index of refraction from about 1.4 to about 1.7.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 73 wherein said first material is silicone.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
10 words
The system of claim 73 wherein the core is glass.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 56 wherein said first material has a light scatterer disposed in a distal end portion thereof.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
23 words
The system of claim 78 wherein the light scatterer is selected from a group consisting of aluminum oxide, titanium dioxide and diamond powder.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 56 wherein said first material has a temperature sensor disposed in a distal end portion thereof.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
27 words
The system of claim 56 wherein said first material has a temperature sensor disposed along a length thereof adjacent to the internal surface of said second material.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
16 words
The system of claim 80 or 81 wherein the temperature sensor is an optical temperature sensor.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
33 words
The system of claim 56, further comprising a tip at a distal end of the light-transmissive material, said tip composed a material characterized by low light absorption to avoid producing a hot tip.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 83 wherein the tip material is gold.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
13 words
The system of claim 84 wherein the tip material is 24 karat gold.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 83 wherein said tip is adapted to facilitate placement of the light-transmissive material into a material selected for receiving light.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
18 words
The system of claim 86 wherein said tip is sharp, pointed, or adapted for puncturing the selected material.
Claim 93
Independent Claim
19 words
The system of any one of claims 55 and 56 wherein said source of light energy is a laser.
Claim 94
Independent Claim
20 words
The system of any one of claims 55 and 56 wherein said connector carries information which identifies said optical fiber.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
12 words
The system of claim 89 wherein the information includes a digital code.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 89 wherein the code is in the form of at least one band circumferentially surrounding said connector.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 89 wherein said emitter is adapted to emit light according to parameters determined by the information.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 89, further comprising at least one detector for detecting the information.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 93 wherein said detector is characterized by providing the system with light-irradiation parameters upon detection of the information.
Claim 100
Independent Claim
24 words
The system of any one of claims 55 and 56 wherein said second material is adapted for insertion into a material to be treated.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 95 wherein the material is bodily tissue.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 96 wherein the tissue is prostatic tissue.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
14 words
The system of claim 97 wherein the tissue is affected by benign prostatic hypertrophy.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 96 wherein said emitter is adapted to irradiate the tissue sufficiently to necrose a volume thereof.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
159 words
A fiber optic system for emitting light from a source of light energy, comprising: a source of light energy associated with a connection port; means for optically transmitting light energy, said transmitting means having a light-transmitting end and a connection end; means for emitting light from a surface along a length thereof, said emitting means disposed at the light-transmitting end; means for positioning said transmitting means relative to said source, said positioning means surrounding said transmitting means and having a shoulder, the connection end in optical communication with said source when the shoulder is seated relative to said radiation source; and means for connecting said transmitting means to said radiation source, said connecting means carrying said positioning means therein such that the shoulder is accessible through a distal end of said connecting means, said connecting means including means for providing a biasing force sufficient to seat the shoulder relative to said source and means for engaging the connection port.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
159 words
A fiber optic system for emitting light from a source of light energy, comprising: a source of light energy associated with a connection port; means for optically transmitting light energy, said transmitting means having a light-transmitting end and a connection end; means for emitting light from a surface along a length thereof, said emitting means disposed at the light-transmitting end; means for positioning said transmitting means relative to said source, said positioning means surrounding said transmitting means and having a shoulder, the connection end in optical communication with said source when the shoulder is seated relative to said radiation source; and means for connecting said transmitting means to said radiation source, said connecting means carrying said positioning means therein such that the shoulder is accessible through a distal end of said connecting means, said connecting means including means for providing a biasing force sufficient to seat the shoulder relative to said source and means for engaging the connection port.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
78 words
The system of claim 100, said emitting means comprising: a light-transmissive first material surrounding the light-transmitting end; and a light-transmissive second material surrounding said first material, said first and second materials defining a light guide when light is transmitted from the end of said optical fiber to said first material, said second material having an internal surface modified sufficiently to transmit light travelling along the light guide to an outside surface along a length of said second material.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
30 words
The system of claim 101 wherein along a length of said first material, said first material has an index of refraction that is greater than that of said second material.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 102 wherein said first material has an index of refraction from about 1.4 to about 1.8.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 102 wherein said second material has an index of refraction from about 1.3 to about 1.4.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 102 wherein said first material is silicone.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
12 words
The system of claim 102 wherein said second material is a fluoropolymer.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 102 wherein said second material is impregnated with BaSO 4 .
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 101 wherein the internal surface of said second material is abraded.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
25 words
The system of claim 108 wherein the internal surface of said second material is increasingly abraded along a length thereof towards a distal end thereof.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 101 wherein light is transmitted in a preselected direction relative to the outside surface of said second material.
Claim 117
Dependent Claim
26 words
The system of claim 101 wherein light is transmitted in a substantially uniform intensity profile along a length of the outside surface of said second material.
Claim 118
Dependent Claim
35 words
The system of claim 101, further comprising means for facilitating placement of the second material into a material selected for receiving light therefrom, said facilitating means disposed at a distal end of said second material.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim
16 words
The system of claim 112 wherein said facilitating means is adapted for puncturing the selected material.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
59 words
The system of claim 101 wherein an exposed core of said transmitting means extends a distance into said first material and said first material and the core are selected such that when light is transmitted from the end of said transmitting means to the first material, light is transmissible from the core to said first material along that distance.
Claim 121
Dependent Claim
28 words
The system of claim 114 wherein said first material has an index of refraction that is equal to or greater than that of the core along the distance.
Claim 122
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system of claim 115 wherein said first material has an index of refraction from about 1.4 to 1.8.
Claim 123
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system of claim 115 wherein the core has an index of refraction from about 1.4 to about 1.7.
Claim 124
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 101 wherein said first material has means for scattering light disposed in a distal end portion thereof.
Claim 125
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 101 wherein said first material has means for sensing temperature disposed in a distal end portion thereof.
Claim 126
Dependent Claim
28 words
The system of claim 101 wherein said first material has means for sensing temperature disposed along a length thereof adjacent to the internal surface of said second material.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim
16 words
The system of claim 119 or 120 wherein the sensing means is an optical temperature sensor.
Claim 128
Dependent Claim
33 words
The system of claim 101, further comprising a tip at a distal end of the light-transmissive material, said tip composed a material characterized by low light absorption to avoid producing a hot tip.
Claim 129
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 122 wherein said tip is adapted to facilitate placement of the light-transmissive material into a material selected for receiving light.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
18 words
The system of claim 123 wherein said tip is sharp, pointed, or adapted for puncturing the selected material.
Claim 131
Independent Claim
19 words
The system of any one of claims 100 and 101 wherein said source of light energy is a laser.
Claim 132
Independent Claim
21 words
The system of any one of claims 100 and 101 wherein said connecting means carries means for identifying said transmitting means.
Claim 133
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 126 wherein said emitting means is adapted to emit light according to parameters determined by the identifying means.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim
13 words
The system of claim 126, further comprising means for detecting the identifying means.
Claim 135
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 128 wherein said detecting means is characterized by providing the system with light-irradiation parameters upon detection of the identifying means.
Claim 136
Independent Claim
24 words
The system of any one of claims 100 and 101 wherein said second material is adapted for insertion into a material to be treated.
Claim 137
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 130 wherein the material is bodily tissue.
Claim 138
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 131 wherein the tissue is prostatic tissue.
Claim 139
Dependent Claim
14 words
The system of claim 132 wherein the tissue is affected by benign prostatic hypertrophy.
Claim 140
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 131 wherein said emitter is adapted to irradiate the tissue sufficiently to necrose a volume thereof.
Claim 141
Dependent Claim
156 words
A fiber optic light delivery system, comprising: an optical fiber having first and second ends; a light-transmissive first material surrounding the first end and a light-transmissive second material surrounding said first material, said first and second materials defining a light guide when light is transmitted from the end of said optical fiber to said first material, said second material having an internal surface modified sufficiently to transmit light travelling along the light guide to an outside surface along a length of said second material; and a connector carrying said optical fiber therein such that the second end is accessible through a distal end of said connector, said connector including a connecting portion, a biasing component and a seating surface, said connector adapted to seat said optical fiber via the seating surface under a biasing force provided by the biasing component and to connect said optical fiber via the connecting portion thereby to provide for light delivery.
Claim 142
Dependent Claim
156 words
A fiber optic light delivery system, comprising: an optical fiber having first and second ends; a light-transmissive first material surrounding the first end and a light-transmissive second material surrounding said first material, said first and second materials defining a light guide when light is transmitted from the end of said optical fiber to said first material, said second material having an internal surface modified sufficiently to transmit light travelling along the light guide to an outside surface along a length of said second material; and a connector carrying said optical fiber therein such that the second end is accessible through a distal end of said connector, said connector including a connecting portion, a biasing component and a seating surface, said connector adapted to seat said optical fiber via the seating surface under a biasing force provided by the biasing component and to connect said optical fiber via the connecting portion thereby to provide for light delivery.
Claim 143
Dependent Claim
30 words
The system of claim 135 wherein along a length of said first material, said first material has an index of refraction that is greater than that of said second material.
Claim 144
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 136 wherein said first material has an index of refraction from about 1.4 to about 1.8.
Claim 145
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 136 wherein said second material has an index of refraction from about 1.3 to about 1.4.
Claim 146
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 136 wherein said first material is silicone.
Claim 147
Dependent Claim
12 words
The system of claim 136 wherein said second material is a fluoropolymer.
Claim 148
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 136 wherein said second material is impregnated with BaSO 4 .
Claim 149
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 135 wherein the internal surface of said second material is abraded.
Claim 150
Dependent Claim
25 words
The system of claim 142 wherein the internal surface of said second material is increasingly abraded along a length thereof towards a distal end thereof.
Claim 151
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 135 wherein light is transmitted in a preselected direction relative to the outside surface of said second material.
Claim 152
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 143 wherein the preselected direction is azimuthal with respect to the outside surface of said second material.
Claim 153
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 144 wherein the preselected direction is along a length of the outside surface of said second material.
Claim 154
Dependent Claim
26 words
The system of claim 143 wherein light is transmitted in a substantially uniform intensity profile along a length of the outside surface of said second material.
Claim 155
Dependent Claim
33 words
The system of claim 135 wherein said second material forms a tip at a distal end thereof, said tip facilitating placement of the second material into a material selected for receiving light therefrom.
Claim 156
Dependent Claim
35 words
The system of claim 135 further comprising a tip attached to said second material at a distal end thereof, said tip facilitating placement of the second material into a material selected for receiving light therefrom.
Claim 157
Dependent Claim
17 words
The system of claim 148 or 149 wherein said tip is adapted for puncturing the selected material.
Claim 158
Dependent Claim
59 words
The system of claim 135 wherein an exposed core of said optical fiber extends a distance into said first material and said first material and the core are selected such that when light is transmitted from the end of the optical fiber to the first material, light is transmissible from the core to the first material along that distance.
Claim 159
Dependent Claim
28 words
The system of claim 151 wherein said first material has an index of refraction that is equal to or greater than that of the core along the distance.
Claim 160
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system of claim 152 wherein said first material has an index of refraction from about 1.4 to 1.8.
Claim 161
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system of claim 152 wherein the core has an index of refraction from about 1.4 to about 1.7.
Claim 162
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 152 wherein said first material is silicone.
Claim 163
Dependent Claim
10 words
The system of claim 152 wherein the core is glass.
Claim 164
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 135 wherein said first material has a light scatterer disposed in a distal end portion thereof.
Claim 165
Dependent Claim
23 words
The system of claim 151 wherein the light scatterer is selected from a group consisting of aluminum oxide, titanium dioxide and diamond powder.
Claim 166
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 135 wherein said first material has a temperature sensor disposed in a distal end portion thereof.
Claim 167
Dependent Claim
27 words
The system of claim 135 wherein said first material has a temperature sensor disposed along a length thereof adjacent to the internal surface of said second material.
Claim 168
Dependent Claim
16 words
The system of claim 159 or 160 wherein the temperature sensor is an optical temperature sensor.
Claim 169
Dependent Claim
33 words
The system of claim 135, further comprising a tip at a distal end of the light-transmissive material, said tip composed a material characterized by low light absorption to avoid producing a hot tip.
Claim 170
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 162 wherein the tip material is gold.
Claim 171
Dependent Claim
13 words
The system of claim 163 wherein the tip material is 24 karat gold.
Claim 172
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 162 wherein said tip is adapted to facilitate placement of the light-transmissive material into a material selected for receiving light.
Claim 173
Dependent Claim
18 words
The system of claim 165 wherein said tip is sharp, pointed, or adapted for puncturing the selected material.
Claim 174
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 135 further comprising a source of light energy including a laser.
Claim 175
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 135 wherein said connector carries information which identifies said optical fiber.
Claim 176
Dependent Claim
12 words
The system of claim 168 wherein the information includes a digital code.
Claim 177
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 169 wherein the code is in the form of at least one band circumferentially surrounding said connector.
Claim 178
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 168 wherein said emitter is adapted to emit light according to parameters determined by the information.
Claim 179
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 168, further comprising at least one detector for detecting the information.
Claim 180
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 172 wherein the detector is characterized by providing the system with light-irradiation parameters upon detection of the information.
Claim 181
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system of claim 135 wherein said second material is adapted for insertion into a material to be treated.
Claim 182
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 174 wherein the material is bodily tissue.
Claim 183
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 175 wherein the tissue is prostatic tissue.
Claim 184
Dependent Claim
14 words
The system of claim 176 wherein the tissue is affected by benign prostatic hypertrophy.
Claim 185
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 175 wherein said emitter is adapted to irradiate the tissue sufficiently to necrose a volume thereof.
Claim 186
Dependent Claim
169 words
A fiber optic light delivery system, comprising: means for optically transmitting light, said transmitting means having first and second ends; a light-transmissive first material surrounding the first end and a light-transmissive second material surrounding said first material, said first and second materials defining a light guide when light is transmitted from the end of said transmitting means to the first material, said second material having an internal surface modified sufficiently to transmit light travelling along the light guide to an outside surface along a length of said second material; and means for connecting said transmitting means, said connecting means carrying said transmitting means therein such that the second end is accessible through a distal end of said connecting means, said connecting means including a connecting portion, biasing means and seating means, said connecting means adapted to seat said transmitting means via the seating means under a biasing force provided by the biasing means and to connect said transmitting means via the connecting portion thereby to provide for light delivery.
Claim 187
Dependent Claim
169 words
A fiber optic light delivery system, comprising: means for optically transmitting light, said transmitting means having first and second ends; a light-transmissive first material surrounding the first end and a light-transmissive second material surrounding said first material, said first and second materials defining a light guide when light is transmitted from the end of said transmitting means to the first material, said second material having an internal surface modified sufficiently to transmit light travelling along the light guide to an outside surface along a length of said second material; and means for connecting said transmitting means, said connecting means carrying said transmitting means therein such that the second end is accessible through a distal end of said connecting means, said connecting means including a connecting portion, biasing means and seating means, said connecting means adapted to seat said transmitting means via the seating means under a biasing force provided by the biasing means and to connect said transmitting means via the connecting portion thereby to provide for light delivery.
Claim 188
Dependent Claim
30 words
The system of claim 179 wherein along a length of said first material, said first material has an index of refraction that is greater than that of said second material.
Claim 189
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 180 wherein said first material has an index of refraction from about 1.4 to about 1.8.
Claim 190
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 180 wherein said second material has an index of refraction from about 1.3 to about 1.4.
Claim 191
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 180 wherein said first material is silicone.
Claim 192
Dependent Claim
12 words
The system of claim 180 wherein said second material is a fluoropolymer.
Claim 193
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 180 wherein said second material is impregnated with BaSO 4 .
Claim 194
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 179 wherein the internal surface of said second material is abraded.
Claim 195
Dependent Claim
25 words
The system of claim 186 wherein the internal surface of said second material is increasingly abraded along a length thereof towards a distal end thereof.
Claim 196
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 179 wherein light is transmitted in a preselected direction relative to the outside surface of said second material.
Claim 197
Dependent Claim
26 words
The system of claim 179 wherein light is transmitted in a substantially uniform intensity profile along a length of the outside surface of said second material.
Claim 198
Dependent Claim
35 words
The system of claim 181, further comprising means for facilitating placement of said second material into a material selected for receiving light therefrom, said facilitating means disposed at a distal end of said second material.
Claim 199
Dependent Claim
16 words
The system of claim 190 wherein said facilitating means is adapted for puncturing the selected material.
Claim 200
Dependent Claim
59 words
The system of claim 179 wherein an exposed core of said transmitting means extends a distance into said first material and said first material and the core are selected such that when light is transmitted from the end of said transmitting means to said first material, light is transmissible from the core to said first material along that distance.
Claim 201
Dependent Claim
28 words
The system of claim 192 wherein said first material has an index of refraction that is equal to or greater than that of the core along the distance.
Claim 202
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system of claim 193 wherein said first material has an index of refraction from about 1.4 to 1.8.
Claim 203
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system of claim 193 wherein the core has an index of refraction from about 1.4 to about 1.7.
Claim 204
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 179 wherein said first material has means for scattering light disposed in a distal end portion thereof.
Claim 205
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 179 wherein said first material has means for sensing temperature disposed in a distal end portion thereof.
Claim 206
Dependent Claim
28 words
The system of claim 179 wherein said first material has means for sensing temperature disposed along a length thereof adjacent to the internal surface of said second material.
Claim 207
Dependent Claim
16 words
The system of claim 197 or 198 wherein the sensing means is an optical temperature sensor.
Claim 208
Dependent Claim
33 words
The system of claim 179, further comprising a tip at a distal end of the light-transmissive material, said tip composed a material characterized by low light absorption to avoid producing a hot tip.
Claim 209
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 200 wherein said tip is adapted to facilitate placement of the light-transmissive material into a material selected for receiving light.
Claim 210
Dependent Claim
18 words
The system of claim 201 wherein said tip is sharp, pointed, or adapted for puncturing the selected material.
Claim 211
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 179 further comprising a source of light energy including a laser.
Claim 212
Dependent Claim
16 words
The system of claim 179 wherein said connecting means carries means for identifying said transmitting means.
Claim 213
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 204 wherein said emitting means is adapted to emit light according to parameters determined by the identifying means.
Claim 214
Dependent Claim
13 words
The system of claim 204, further comprising means for detecting the identifying means.
Claim 215
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 206 wherein said detecting means is characterized by providing the system with light-irradiation parameters upon detection of the identifying means.
Claim 216
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system of claim 179 wherein said second material is adapted for insertion into a material to be treated.
Claim 217
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 208 wherein the material is bodily tissue.
Claim 218
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 209 wherein the tissue is prostatic tissue.
Claim 219
Dependent Claim
14 words
The system of claim 210 wherein the tissue is affected by benign prostatic hypertrophy.
Claim 220
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 209 wherein said emitter is adapted to irradiate the tissue sufficiently to necrose a volume thereof.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2001-12-07 | 2002-06-08 | 2002-12-08 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2005-12-07 | 2006-06-08 | 2006-12-08 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2009-12-07 | 2010-06-08 | 2010-12-08 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |