Patent ID: 6035229
Filing Date: 2000-03-07
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A system for use in detecting Barrett's metaplasia of the esophagus, comprising:a flexible catheter;a probe mounted at a distal end of said flexible catheter, said probe having an illuminator and a light receiving device each of which are directed radially outwardly to illuminate the wall of an esophagus into which said probe has been inserted and receive light from the esophageal wall;a position measuring device measuring the position of said probe along the length of said esophagus; anda light sensing device coupled to said light receiving device, said light sensing device providing an indication of the color of the esophageal wall whereby Barrett's metaplasia of the esophagus can be detected based on a colorimetric change in the esophagus as sensed through said sensing device at a location along the length of the esophageal wall indicated by said position measuring device.