EXPENDABLE OPTICAL WAVEGUIDE WITH USE-TRACKING FEATURE

摘要

An expendable optical fiber suitable for use in endoscopic medical treatments with a variety of light sources is described. The inventive fiber has means for determining the fiber's cumulative use history and means for enhancing visualization at the treatment site. The means for determining the fiber's cumulative use history and the means for enhancing visualization are located along predetermined portions of the fiber's surface. The inventive fiber provides for optimal color contrast and background for performing medical procedures and allows for the rapid determination of a fiber's cumulative use history by visual inspection.