@inproceedings{1443f2b47a754c399485ce148cd25369,
title = "Fluid-core optical transmission for laser angioplasty",
abstract = "Optically transparent fluids were investigated as a means of transmitting laser energy (LE) in laser angioplasty catheters as an alternative to fused silica fibers. A catheter was constructed which transmits LE through a flowing stream of iodinated contrast media. LE is launched into a stream of contrast media and is internally reflected by a lower index of refraction cladding-providing transmission efficiency of 75%. As the stream exits the catheter, blood acts as an optical cladding and allows transmission 1 cm distal to the catheter tip. The low pressure stream removes intervening blood and provides an atraumatic surface for light interaction with target tissues. Fluoroscopy of the contrast stream allows real-time visualization of the catheter, the site of LE delivery and distal vasculature. We conclude that a fluid-core laser angioplasty catheter can transmit high peak-power laser energy and offers simplicity, blood removal, improved flexibility and real-time imaging during intravascular LE delivery.",
author = "Gregory, {Kenton W.} and Anderson, {R. Rox}",
year = "1990",
doi = "10.1117/12.17531",
language = "English (US)",
isbn = "0819402427",
series = "Proceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering",
publisher = "Publ by Int Soc for Optical Engineering",
pages = "156--161",
booktitle = "Proceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering",
note = "Proceedings of Optical Fibers in Medicine V ; Conference date: 14-01-1990 Through 19-01-1990",
}