Patent ID: 7169142
Filing Date: 2007-01-30
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for treating an atrial tissue of a patient in situ, comprising: a. an optical fiber for guiding a coherent waveform of a selected wavelength to a fiber tip for discharge of light energy from said fiber tip in a direction of energy discharge, said wavelength selected to have a low absorption in water; b. said fiber tip contained within a guide member having a discharge bore for said direction of energy discharge to define an unobstructed light pathway from the fiber tip through a discharge end of said discharge bore, said guide member having a smooth, curved surface adapted to be placed against a surface of said tissue and to be slidable along said surface of said atrial tissue; and in atraumatic sliding engagement and with said discharge bore opposing said atrial tissue said fiber tip spaced from said discharge end in a substantially fixed spacing; c. said guide member carried on an elongated flexible member.