Patent ID: 6168591
Filing Date: 2001-01-02
Classification: A61B,A61L,A61N

Abstract:
A phototherapeutic apparatus comprising a light transmitting fiber element having a proximal end and a distal end, the fiber element including a fiber core, the proximal end being adapted for coupling to a source of phototherapeutic radiation, the distal being adapted for penetrating tissue, the fiber element including a first portion including a relatively stiff tubular member, the first portion having a first stiffness; a second portion distal to the first portion, the second portion having a second stiffness less than the first stiffness; and a third portion distal to the second portion, the third portion having a third stiffness greater then the second stiffness, the third portion being adapted for emitting radiation from the fiber core to treat tissue; and a support sheath mounted about the fiber element such that the third portion of the fiber element is extendable from the support sheath by applying an axially compressive force to the fiber element, wherein the first, second and third stiffnesses of the fiber element provide a stiffness differential for facilitating passage of the fiber element through a tortuous lumen in a patient, and the support sheath minimizes flexing of the second portion of the fiber element as the third portion is extended from the support sheath.