摘要 |
An apparatus for delivery of high intensity laser radiation of large spot size into arteries and a method for making same are disclosed. An optical radiating apparatus is formed on one end of a light-conducting optical fiber such that high intensity laser radiation leaves the optical radiation apparatus with a spot size that is expanded to a diameter significantly larger than the optical fiber diameter. The apparatus comprises a small diameter, flexible fiber which tapers to a large diameter, smooth, rounded ball tip. The taper allows the beam to expand to several millimeters in diameter and thereby ablate a large channel through an occluded artery. The smooth ball tip minimizes the chance of mechanical dissection or perforation. The fiber material is continuous such that there are no optical interfaces. The light radiation apparatus is manufactured to ensure uniformity of light intensity and the ability to transmit intense light without developing regions of mechanical, thermal or optical damage to the apparatus.
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