William A Leblanc

US Patent:

20090030271, Jan 29, 2009

Filed:

Jul 28, 2008

Appl. No.:

12/181248

Inventors:

Brian Foley - Wilbraham MA, US
William LeBlanc - Indian Orchard MA, US

International Classification:

A61B 1/018

US Classification:

600104, 600118

Abstract:

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.