Ceramoptec Industries, Inc.

Biolitec Pharma Marketing Ltd

Brian Foley

Wolfgang Neuberger

Stefan Spaniol

Heinrich Kudla

William LeBlanc

An adapter for endoscopic treatments has a fiber constraint device that is set at a desired maximum fiber retraction distance, and provides a physical barrier to prevent excessive fiber retraction into the endoscope. The restricted retraction prevents the fiber from firing within the endoscope, thus avoiding expensive damage to both the endoscope and fiber. This benefits the patient with potentially shorter treatment time and less exposure to anesthesia. The adapter also limits maximum extension of fibers. Limiting maximum extension protects the fiber tip and avoids patient complications. The adapter is securely attached to the optical fiber with a connecting means. When using directionally radiating fiber tips, fiber orientation can be defined and the fiber can be rotated relative to the initial angular position of the fiber tip.

Adapter for endoscopes and related method

A safe connection system for coupling radiation from radiation sources, such as lasers, into optical fibers is provided. The system prevents the accidental use of standard optical fibers with radiation sources that require fibers capable of transmitting high power or other radiation with unique characteristics. Because often the fibers for use with high power lasers, for example, may also be used with standard lasers, the system preserves the interchangeability of standard connection systems such as SMA by providing connectors that can properly fit both in standard receptacles and in the receptacles of the present invention. Thus, this connection system preserves the advantages of a standard laser-fiber connection system while increasing the safety of such systems, where it is necessary.

SMA compatible, safe laser connector system

The present invention describes a multi-component handpiece that is both economical and practical for surgical laser treatment. A disposable optical fiber is inserted into a reusable handpiece. The distal end of the optical fiber is protected by a micro-walled protective tube to prevent the disposable fiber from chipping before and during insertion into the handpiece. Once the optical fiber is protected, it is inserted into the handpiece by threading the optical fiber through the cap, body, and cannula of the handpiece until the fiber extends slightly beyond the distal end of the needle. The micro-walled protective tube is removed from the end of the optical fiber, the optical fiber is positioned, and the cap is tightened. The cap and body of the handpiece cooperate to produce a tight friction fit that prevents longitudinal movement of the optical fiber during laser therapy. The tight friction fit holds the optical fiber in place without the use of adhesives, which allows for facilitated removal of the disposable fiber after use. Furthermore, a disposable fiber allows for convenient resterilization of the handpiece to eliminate the transmission of disease from one patient to the next without having to dispose of the entire handpiece following every laser procedure.

Growing community of inventors

Wilbraham, MA, United States of America

Brian Foley