Optical waveguides – Directional optical modulation within an optical waveguide – Acousto-optic
Reexamination Certificate
2008-11-03
2010-02-09
Rahll, Jerry T (Department: 2874)
Optical waveguides
Directional optical modulation within an optical waveguide
Acousto-optic
C367S189000
Reexamination Certificate
active
07660492
ABSTRACT:
An imaging guidewire can include one or more optical fibers communicating light along the guidewire. At or near its distal end, one or more blazed or other fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) directs light to a photoacoustic transducer material that provides ultrasonic imaging energy. Returned ultrasound is sensed by an FBG sensor. A responsive signal is optically communicated to the proximal end of the guidewire, and processed to develop a 2D or 3D image. In one example, the guidewire outer diameter is small enough such that an intravascular catheter can be passed over the guidewire. Techniques for improving ultrasound reception include using a high compliance material, resonating the ultrasound sensing transducer, using an attenuation-reducing coating and/or thickness, and/or using optical wavelength discrimination. Techniques for improving the ultrasound generating transducer include using a blazed FBG, designing the photoacoustic material thickness to enhance optical absorption. Techniques for distinguishing plaque or vulnerable plaque may be used to enhance the displayed image.
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Bates Kenneth N.
Vardi Gil M.
Rahll Jerry T
Schwegman Lundberg & Woessner, P.A.
Vascular Imaging Corporation
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