Diomed Inc.

Biolitec Pharma Marketing Ltd

Tiziano Caldera

Robert Min

Peter Klein

Fabio Coluccia

Franco Maglione

Paolo Tamplenizza

Walter Fontanella

A minimally invasive method for treating varices including pelvic varices in females, varicoceles, and also oesophageal varices is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of inserting a catheter device into the blood vessels of a patient and advancing the distal end of the catheter to reach the varix or varices. The insertion may be made in the femoral vein or in other vessels as appropriate. Preferably, x-ray, angiography, or other imaging techniques are used to visualize and position the catheter. An optical fiber or optical fiber bundle is then inserted into the catheter and the distal end is advanced to a predetermined point near the varix or varices. Laser energy of preferably 980 nm is then transmitted to the varix to close the blood vessel. Imaging techniques such as angiographies may again be performed to confirm closure of the vein. The method is an out-patient procedure that requires no incision or general anesthesia, requires no recovery time, and does not require that any foreign objects be left in the body. This method has been shown to have a higher success rate than previous embolization and surgical procedures.

Method for treatment of varices

A method of endovenous laser treatment in disclosed. An introducer sheathis introduced into a vein and an optical fiberis introduced through the introducer sheath until a first markingon the optical fiberindicates that the distal end of the optical fiberis substantially in alignment with the distal end of the introducer sheath. The introducer sheathis then withdrawn relative to the optical fiberuntil a second markingon the optical fiberindicates that the distal end of the optical fiberextends a predetermined distance beyond the distal end of said introducer sheath. Laser radiation is passed down the optical fiberso that laser radiation is delivered to the inner wall of the vein and the introducer sheathtogether with the optical fiberare withdrawn a certain distance along the vein.

Method of endovenous laser treatment

A medical laser device is disclosed comprising an optical fiberhaving markingswhich enable the optical fiberto be accurately positioned relative to an introducer sheathThe introducer sheathmay also have graduated markings to enable the sheathto be withdrawn at a controlled rate. A pulsed or continuous laser source may be provided.

Medical laser device

Growing community of inventors

Cambs, United Kingdom

Tiziano Caldera