Patent ID: 7869016
Filing Date: 2011-01-11
Classification: A61B,G01M

Abstract:
1. A method for determining imminent failure of a fiber cap on an optical fiber used for medical laser treatment comprising: providing an optical fiber having a distal tip with an attached fiber cap and a proximal end coupled to a medical laser unit; capturing light returning from the fiber cap at the proximal end of the optical fiber, wherein capturing light returning from the fiber cap at the proximal end comprises capturing an auxiliary wavelength of the medical laser unit; filtering the returned light to isolate the captured auxiliary wavelength; converting the captured auxiliary wavelength to an electronic signal; comparing the electronic signal to a trigger threshold value associated with imminent failure of the fiber cap; and adjusting an output of a main treatment wavelength of the medical laser unit upon the electronic signal meeting or exceeding the trigger threshold value prior to actual failure of the fiber cap to prolong the life of the fiber cap.