Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

Light developed by an implantable probe is used to illuminate a treatment site that has been perfused with a photoreactive agent. A number of different embodiments of implantable probes are disclosed. Preferably, an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) or solid-state laser diodes (LDs) are mounted on a light bar inside the implantable probe and are energized either using a storage battery power source, an inductively coupled external transformer, or with current provided in leads running through a flexible catheter that extends outside the patient's body to an external source. The implantable probe is normally intended to be disposed inside a patient's body during a surgical procedure, at a treatment site, and left in place for several days (or longer) after an incision is closed, while light produced by the array of LEDs or solid-state LDs irradiates the treatment site. Alternatively, light from an external light source can be conveyed over one or more optical fibers to an implantable probe that is disposed inside the patient's body to irradiate the treatment site. Waste heat produced by the array of LEDs or LDs disposed on the implantable probe can be employed to augment the PDT by increasing the temperature of the tissue at the treatment site.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim