초록 ▼

Apparatus for use in photodynamic therapy (PDT) is provided having a substantially cylindrical support to which is attached a removable, multi-sided head. Each side of the head has an array of light-emitting diodes that provide monochromatic light to activate a photosensitive dye. The apparatus may

Apparatus for use in photodynamic therapy (PDT) is provided having a substantially cylindrical support to which is attached a removable, multi-sided head. Each side of the head has an array of light-emitting diodes that provide monochromatic light to activate a photosensitive dye. The apparatus may be used in invasive surgery to treat brain tumors and the like. The apparatus may be used for topical treatments by providing a removable reflector over the light-emitting head. The temperature of the head is controlled, and the head is cooled by circulating cooling fluid through the head. The use of the cooling fluid allows the LEDs to be driven beyond their rated capacity. The catheter may also include an expandable light diffuser that is affixed over the light-emitting head and that is filled with a diffuser fluid such as a lipid solution. The apparatus may also be used to provide radiant energy to plants or to patients in non-PDT applications.

대표청구항 ▼

[ We claim:] [1.] Apparatus used in photodynamic therapy to provide radiant energy to living cells, comprising:a thermally-conductive support member having a proximal end;a radiation transmitting head interconnected with said proximal end, said head including:at least three side faces arranged to en

[ We claim:] [1.] Apparatus used in photodynamic therapy to provide radiant energy to living cells, comprising:a thermally-conductive support member having a proximal end;a radiation transmitting head interconnected with said proximal end, said head including:at least three side faces arranged to encircle said proximal end;a substantially non-electrically conductive layer disposed on each of said faces;a plurality of optoelectronic devices on each of said layers such that radiant energy may be provided by said devices in a 360 degree arc around said head;means for limiting the surface temperature of said head, includinga first passageway in said support member that receives and carries a cooling fluid to said head; anda second passageway in said support member that carries said cooling fluid away from said head.