Abstract:
Methods and apparatus are provided for determining a characteristic of a sample of a material by the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with th e sample. The apparatus includes an optical assembly and a protective barrier. The optical assembly sequentially illuminates a plurality of volume elements in the sample with an intensity distribution in the sample that drops off substantially monotonically from a first region in a first optical path and collects electromagnetic radiation emanating from each of the volume element s. The optical assembly collects the electromagnetic radiation emanating from each of the volume elements with a collected distribution that drops off substantially monotonically from a second region in a second optical path. T he first and second regions at least partially overlap in each of the volume elements. The optical assembly can be configured as a probe, to be directed to the evaluation of a sample of a biological material. A protective barrier ca n be disposed between the optical assembly and a body tissue, to prevent contamination of the optical assembly by said body tissue.
Abstract:
The present invention recognizes that optical probes function both as medical access devices and as instruments which collect complex optical data. The invention provides an optical probe accessory device which can access luminal spaces within the body of a patient without sacrificing the quality of optical data obtained. The accessory device further comprises either, singly, or in combination, selectable features or options which optimize light transmission, maximize patient comfort, and provide single-use capabilities.
Abstract:
The present invention recognizes that optical probes function both as medica l access devices and as instruments which collect complex optical data. The invention provides an optical probe accessory device which can access lumina l spaces within the body of a patient without sacrificing the quality of optic al data obtained. The accessory device further comprises either, singly, or in combination, selectable features or options which optimize light transmissio n, maximize patient comfort, and provide single-use capabilities.