Patent ID: 6659957
Filing Date: 2003-12-09
Classification: A61B,G01H

Abstract:
A device for imaging of an object, primarily for vascular imaging, the device comprising:an optical fiber provided with a core, the core having an intracore written Bragg grating, the fiber being capable of reflecting light after illuminating thereof by a turnable laser beam, the reflected light is defined by a wavelength having a period corresponding to that of the Bragg grating; a jacket at least partly surrounding the optical fiber, the jacket comprising a piezoelectric transducer for emanating omnidirectionally ultrasonic waves in response to an alternating voltage applied thereto, the ultrasonic waves after being reflected by the object being capable of inducing deformations within the core accompanied by modulation of the reflected light which can be detected and used for creation an image, and a tubular strengthening member surrounding the jacket, the member being provided with at least one aperture located in a relationship with respect to the Bragg grating so as to pass the ultrasonic waves reflected by the ultrasonic waves therethrough.