DEVICES AND METHODS FOR PERFORMING TRANSMYOCARDIAL REVASCULARIZATION

摘要

Controlled advancement laser ablation devices, and methods are provided for precise ablation of body matter. The laser ablation devices can include a laser energy transmission mechanism such as, for example, an optical fiber (24) mounted for controlled translational longitudinal movement relative to a housing structure (16). A fiber optics coupler (10) is optically coupled to a laser energy generator (60) for transmitting of laser energy via the optical fiber. Controlled advancement mechanisms are provided in engagement with the optical fiber for advancing the fiber at a controlled rate coordinated with the laser energy generator output to ablate body tissue. Various tools for directing the optical fibers are also described. The optical fiber couplers (10), and tools are particularly suitable for use in transmyocardial revascularization (TMR), and angio plasty procedures.