초록 ▼

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

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.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A system for detecting features of a tissue sample, comprising:an optical probe; and an accessory device for attachment to the optical probe, wherein at least one of the probe and the accessory device includes an element for providing encoded information relating to at least one of the probe and

1. A system for detecting features of a tissue sample, comprising:an optical probe; and an accessory device for attachment to the optical probe, wherein at least one of the probe and the accessory device includes an element for providing encoded information relating to at least one of the probe and the accessory device, wherein the element comprises a bar code for storing the encoded information. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the element further comprises an electrical element and the encoded information is stored therein.3. The system of claim 1, further comprising an element reader for accessing the encoded information in the element.4. The system of claim 1, wherein the encoded information includes identification information.5. The system of claim 1, wherein the encoded information enables particular operating modes of the device.6. The system of claim 2, wherein the electrical element is remotely programmable.7. The system of claim 2, wherein the electrical element includes an RFID chip.8. The system of claim 3, wherein the element reader further comprises a processor including a memory, and wherein the processor compares identification information encoded in the element to identification information located within the memory.9. The system of claim 8, wherein the processor transmits instructions based on whether a match is found between the identification information encoded in the element and the identification information encoded in the memory.10. The system of claim 9, wherein if no match is found, the identification information encoded in the element is added to the memory.11. The system of claim 9, wherein the instructions include an instruction that permits the optical probe to function if no match is found.12. The system of claim 9, wherein the instructions include an instruction that prevents the optical probe from functioning if no match is found.13. The system of claim 8, wherein the processor controls transmission of light by the probe.14. The system of claim 3, wherein the element reader is attached to the probe.15. The system of claim 3, wherein the element reader is separate from the accessory device.16. The system of claim 3, wherein the element reader is removably attached to the probe.17. The system of claim 1, wherein the accessory device includes a flexible portion for conforming to a body space.18. The system of claim 1 wherein the accessory device includes an integral lens.19. The system of claim 1 wherein the accessory device includes a body and an attachment element for attaching the accessory device to the probe, the attachment element detaching from the body of the accessory device when the accessory device is removed from the probe, thereby preventing re-use of the accessory device.20. A system for detecting features of a tissue sample, comprising:an optical probe; and an accessory device for attachment to the optical probe, wherein at least one of the probe and the accessory device includes an element for providing encoded information relating to at least one of the probe and the accessory device, wherein the element comprises an RFID chip for storing the encoded information. 21. The system of claim 20, wherein the element is an electrical element.22. The system of claim 20, wherein the element is remotely programmable.23. The system of claim 20, wherein the encoded information includes identification information.24. The system of claim 20, further comprising an element reader for accessing the encoded information in the element.25. The system of claim 20, wherein the encoded information enables particular operating modes of the device.26. The system of claim 20, wherein the accessory device includes a flexible portion for conforming to a body space.27. The system of claim 20 wherein the accessory device includes an integral lens.28. The system of claim 20, wherein the element further comprises a bar code.29. The system of claim 20 wherein the accessory device includes a body and an attachment element for attaching the accessory device to the probe, the attachment element detaching from the body of the accessory device when the accessory device is removed from the probe, thereby preventing re-use of the accessory device.30. The system of claim 24, wherein the element reader is attached to the probe.31. The system of claim 24, wherein the element reader is separate from the accessory device.32. The system of claim 24, wherein the element reader is removably attached to the probe.33. The system of claim 24, wherein the element reader further comprises a processor including a memory, and wherein the processor compares identification information encoded in the element to identification information encoded in the memory.34. The system of claim 33, wherein the processor transmits instructions based on whether a match is found between the identification information encoded in the element and the identification information encoded in the memory.35. The system of claim 34, wherein if no match is found, the identification information encoded in the element is added to the memory.36. The system of claim 33, wherein the processor controls transmission of light by the probe.37. The system of claim 34, wherein the instructions include an instruction that permits the optical probe to function if no match is found.38. The system of claim 34, wherein the instructions include an instruction that prevents the optical probe from functioning if no match is found.