Patent ID: 8690762
Filing Date: 2014-04-08
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A catheter configured for imaging objects substantially in focus, comprising: an imaging device disposed on a distal end of the catheter, the imaging device having an effective focal plane located in front of the imaging device; a transparent focal instrument coupled to the imaging device, wherein the length of the transparent focal instrument is configured such that a distal end of the transparent focal instrument is positioned at the effective focal plane of the imaging device to enable a target object in contact with the outer periphery of the transparent focal instrument to be imaged substantially in focus; and a positioning device disposed near a distal end of the catheter and configured to selectively position the transparent focal instrument in contact with the target object, wherein a distal end of the transparent focal instrument comprises a substantially planar surface substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the catheter and a side surface substantially parallel to a front surface of the catheter.