Patent ID: 7333700
Filing Date: 2008-02-19
Classification: A61B,G02B,H04N

Abstract:
1. A scanning fiber endoscope, comprising: an optical waveguide having a generally cylindrical shape and located at a distal end of the endoscope, said optical waveguide having a generally annular front-end surface and a generally annular rear-end surface; a fiber scanner having an optical fiber positioned on or adjacent to a center axis of said optical waveguide, and configured to vibrate in resonance for scanning a focused laser spot over a subject, so that light reflected from the subject enters the annular front-end surface of said optical waveguide; a photodiode having a generally annular shape, said photodiode located adjacent to and facing the annular rear-end surface of said optical waveguide, said photodiode being configured to receive light reflected from the subject through said optical waveguide; and a covering tube that covers said optical waveguide and said photodiode.