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Abstract

An apparatus and method for treating Barrett's tissue by removal of the mucosa through PhotoDynamic Therapy(PDT) is provided. A viscous gel is the medium used to carry the photosensitizer to the treatment site and allow sufficient time to transfer to the tissue. The gel's viscosity will allow it to adhere to the tissue for a sufficient amount of time to transfer the photosensitizer or sufficient time for a mechanical device such as an expanding balloon to press the gel into the tissue. The photosensitizer within the gel is activated by the corresponding wavelength of radiation. An extended multi-balloon system limits the area of treatment and localizes the spread of the gel. An endoscope with fiber optics may be used to view the operation. A preferred embodiment of the apparatus contains a catheter with at least two balloons, one to block drainage of the photosensitizer into the stomach and one to limit the height of the treatment area and to press the gel into the tissue. Included in this embodiment is a tube for the delivery of the gel, a tube for cooling purposes or aspiration, an image bundle and a diffuse light source. The apparatus and method may be used to treat various other diseases involving the gastrointestinal diseases of the mucosa. The most salient feature of this invention is the multi-balloon system used to limit the area of treatment, but effect the entire desired area at one time.

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First Claim