Fiber Optic Angioscopes

Abstract

A new product for the direct visualization of cardiovascular and peripherial arterial systems has been investigated and developed using a miniature 1.0 mm diameter fiber optic system.The article presents documentation of the major design parameters that should be considered in angioscope instrument development.The instrument described incorporates a concentric image system /outer shaft design for truer imaging, a working diameter of 1.5 mm, affording visualization to approximately 80% of the coronary arteries, a depth of field experimentally honed to 2mm -25mm, and a system resolution of over 60 L /mm within the typical inspection range. Abst ractA new product for the direct visualization of cardiovascular and peripherial arterial systems has been investigated and developed using a miniature 1.0 mm diameter fiber optic system. The article presents documentation of the major design parameters that should be considered in angioscope instrument development. The instrument described incorporates a concentric image system/outer shaft design for truer imaging, a working diameter of 1.5 mm, affording visualization to approximately 80% of the coronary arteries, a depth of field experimentally honed to 2mm -25mm, and a system resolution of over 60 L/mm within the typical inspection range.