US20200018914A1 - Sheathed optical fiber - Google Patents
Sheathed optical fiber Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20200018914A1 US20200018914A1 US16/371,299 US201916371299A US2020018914A1 US 20200018914 A1 US20200018914 A1 US 20200018914A1 US 201916371299 A US201916371299 A US 201916371299A US 2020018914 A1 US2020018914 A1 US 2020018914A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- optical fiber
- sheath
- fixative
- sheathed
- lumen
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 239000013307 optical fiber Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 124
- 230000003287 optical effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 61
- 210000005166 vasculature Anatomy 0.000 claims abstract description 16
- 230000002792 vascular Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 239000000834 fixative Substances 0.000 claims description 55
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 23
- VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silicium dioxide Chemical compound O=[Si]=O VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 18
- 238000005253 cladding Methods 0.000 claims description 13
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 claims description 13
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000000377 silicon dioxide Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 238000001990 intravenous administration Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 230000003746 surface roughness Effects 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000012634 fragment Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000003822 epoxy resin Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920000647 polyepoxide Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000000560 biocompatible material Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000005498 polishing Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 241000124008 Mammalia Species 0.000 abstract description 4
- 210000004369 blood Anatomy 0.000 description 21
- 239000008280 blood Substances 0.000 description 21
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 13
- 210000003462 vein Anatomy 0.000 description 7
- 238000013459 approach Methods 0.000 description 5
- 238000005286 illumination Methods 0.000 description 5
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 5
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 5
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 5
- FAPWRFPIFSIZLT-UHFFFAOYSA-M Sodium chloride Chemical compound [Na+].[Cl-] FAPWRFPIFSIZLT-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 4
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000009969 flowable effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000001727 in vivo Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000002428 photodynamic therapy Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000004642 Polyimide Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 3
- 244000052769 pathogen Species 0.000 description 3
- 229920001721 polyimide Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 239000002243 precursor Substances 0.000 description 3
- PPBRXRYQALVLMV-UHFFFAOYSA-N Styrene Chemical compound C=CC1=CC=CC=C1 PPBRXRYQALVLMV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229910001069 Ti alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- RTAQQCXQSZGOHL-UHFFFAOYSA-N Titanium Chemical compound [Ti] RTAQQCXQSZGOHL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 241000251539 Vertebrata <Metazoa> Species 0.000 description 2
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000005520 cutting process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000007547 defect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000005670 electromagnetic radiation Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000001125 extrusion Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 2
- 210000005259 peripheral blood Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 239000011886 peripheral blood Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 2
- -1 poly(perfluoro-butenylvinyl ether) Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004417 polycarbonate Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920000515 polycarbonate Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920002635 polyurethane Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004814 polyurethane Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000010453 quartz Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000011780 sodium chloride Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000010936 titanium Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000011282 treatment Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000011277 treatment modality Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000009966 trimming Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000010963 304 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-M Acrylate Chemical compound [O-]C(=O)C=C NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 1
- NLHHRLWOUZZQLW-UHFFFAOYSA-N Acrylonitrile Chemical compound C=CC#N NLHHRLWOUZZQLW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910000838 Al alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 208000037260 Atherosclerotic Plaque Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000035143 Bacterial infection Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 241001631457 Cannula Species 0.000 description 1
- VYZAMTAEIAYCRO-UHFFFAOYSA-N Chromium Chemical compound [Cr] VYZAMTAEIAYCRO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910000599 Cr alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 206010011971 Decreased interest Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 244000043261 Hevea brasiliensis Species 0.000 description 1
- 229910001182 Mo alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004793 Polystyrene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 108091093078 Pyrimidine dimer Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 229910000589 SAE 304 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 208000007536 Thrombosis Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000036142 Viral infection Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013019 agitation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003242 anti bacterial agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229940088710 antibiotic agent Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 230000001580 bacterial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 208000022362 bacterial infectious disease Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003115 biocidal effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000000601 blood cell Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 210000001772 blood platelet Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 210000004204 blood vessel Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 210000001124 body fluid Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000010839 body fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000015556 catabolic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000005387 chalcogenide glass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011651 chromium Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000010941 cobalt Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910017052 cobalt Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- GUTLYIVDDKVIGB-UHFFFAOYSA-N cobalt atom Chemical compound [Co] GUTLYIVDDKVIGB-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006731 degradation reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000011161 development Methods 0.000 description 1
- 201000010099 disease Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000037265 diseases, disorders, signs and symptoms Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000006185 dispersion Substances 0.000 description 1
- 210000000887 face Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000004811 fluoropolymer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920002313 fluoropolymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000013467 fragmentation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000006062 fragmentation reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000028993 immune response Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000415 inactivating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000004615 ingredient Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001678 irradiating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012705 liquid precursor Substances 0.000 description 1
- 210000004379 membrane Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 210000002850 nasal mucosa Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 229920003052 natural elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001194 natural rubber Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000010943 off-gassing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007517 polishing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920001084 poly(chloroprene) Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920003229 poly(methyl methacrylate) Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004926 polymethyl methacrylate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001296 polysiloxane Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920002223 polystyrene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004800 polyvinyl chloride Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000915 polyvinyl chloride Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000002360 preparation method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000541 pulsatile effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011347 resin Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920005989 resin Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229910052594 sapphire Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010980 sapphire Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920002379 silicone rubber Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004945 silicone rubber Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003068 static effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001225 therapeutic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- RWQNBRDOKXIBIV-UHFFFAOYSA-N thymine Chemical class CC1=CNC(=O)NC1=O RWQNBRDOKXIBIV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 210000001519 tissue Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009385 viral infection Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/44—Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
- G02B6/4401—Optical cables
- G02B6/4429—Means specially adapted for strengthening or protecting the cables
- G02B6/443—Protective covering
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B18/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body
- A61B18/18—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body by applying electromagnetic radiation, e.g. microwaves
- A61B18/20—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body by applying electromagnetic radiation, e.g. microwaves using laser
- A61B18/22—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body by applying electromagnetic radiation, e.g. microwaves using laser the beam being directed along or through a flexible conduit, e.g. an optical fibre; Couplings or hand-pieces therefor
- A61B18/24—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body by applying electromagnetic radiation, e.g. microwaves using laser the beam being directed along or through a flexible conduit, e.g. an optical fibre; Couplings or hand-pieces therefor with a catheter
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
- A61N5/06—Radiation therapy using light
- A61N5/0601—Apparatus for use inside the body
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/0001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
- G02B6/0005—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems the light guides being of the fibre type
- G02B6/0008—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems the light guides being of the fibre type the light being emitted at the end of the fibre
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
- A61N5/06—Radiation therapy using light
- A61N2005/063—Radiation therapy using light comprising light transmitting means, e.g. optical fibres
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/0001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
- G02B6/0005—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems the light guides being of the fibre type
- G02B6/0006—Coupling light into the fibre
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
- G02B6/26—Optical coupling means
- G02B6/262—Optical details of coupling light into, or out of, or between fibre ends, e.g. special fibre end shapes or associated optical elements
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to devices and methods for treatment of human blood. More particularly, the present invention relates to devices and methods for irradiating human blood in vivo.
- European Patent Application No. 2,179,767 A1 discloses a device for irradiation of blood through the membranes of the patient's nasal mucosa.
- Various devices have also been developed that permit direct irradiation of blood or tissue within the vasculature or body cavity of a patient.
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,693,556 describes placing an optical fiber equipped with an optical radiator into a body cavity.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,505,725 (to Samson) describes instilling an optical fiber directly into a vein by insertion through a hypodermic needle.
- 7,811,281 (to Rentrop) describe the use of plastic catheters with imbedded optical fiber for delivering light energy to the site of atherosclerotic plaques. These, however, lack features that prevent the fiber optic from bending to the point of fragmentation and may not be compatible with smaller peripheral blood vessels.
- the inventive subject matter provides a sheathed optical fiber useful in illuminating the vasculature of a vertebrate and methods for manufacturing and using such a sheathed optical fiber.
- the sheathed optical fiber includes an optical fiber that lies within the lumen of a hollow sheath, with at least a portion of the space remaining within the lumen of the sheath occupied by a fixative.
- the sheath is dimensioned to facilitate placement within a vascular space, and the exposed faces of the optical fiber are machined and polished to provide efficient optical coupling without the need for active optics.
- a sheathed optical fiber includes a sheath with a lumen and an optical fiber.
- the optical fiber includes a core, a cladding, and a jacket, and the core is composed of a material that is substantially transparent to ultraviolet, visible, and/or infrared wavelengths of light (for example, silica).
- the sheath is composed of a biologically compatible material, such as passivated stainless steel.
- the sheath can be pliant, permitting a degree of flexion, and can also be resilient.
- the entirety of the optical fiber lies within the lumen of the sheath and has the same length as the sheath, such that the ends of the optical fiber and the ends of the sheath coincide.
- the diameter of the optical fiber is less than the diameter of the sheath's lumen, and at least part (for example, at least 95%) of the volume within the sheath that is not occupied by the optical fiber is occupied by a fixative.
- the fixative is distributed throughout this volume so as to contain fragments of the optical fiber (should the optical fiber be damaged or broken), and can be transparent to ultraviolet and/or visible light.
- the fixative is resistant to degradation when exposed to pharmaceutically acceptable solutions, and can be an epoxy resin.
- the ends of the optical fiber are substantially perpendicular to the major axis of the sheathed optical fiber and are polished to a surface roughness of 0.3 microns or less.
- the diameter of the sheathed optical fiber permits it to lie within a lumen of an intravenous catheter, leaving an average distance of about 0.04 mm or more between the surface of the sheathed optical fiber and the wall of the lumen of the catheter, assuming a typical sheathed outer diameter of 0.75 mm or less.
- Another embodiment of the inventive concept is a method of illuminating a vasculature using a sheathed optical fiber.
- a sheathed optical fiber having a sheath, an optical fiber, and a fixative is placed within a vascular space, and electromagnetic energy is applied to the sheathed optical fiber.
- the optical fiber is the same length as the sheath and lies entirely within a lumen of the sheath, with a fixative occupying some or all of the space within the lumen that is not occupied by the optical fiber.
- Still another embodiment of the inventive concept is a method for manufacturing a sheathed optical fiber.
- a volume of uncured fixative is placed within the lumen of a sheath.
- An optical fiber having a core, cladding, and a jacket is then advanced through the lumen, beginning at the end of the sheath through which the uncured fixative was introduced.
- excess uncured fixative is removed, and the remaining fixative is cured.
- the exposed ends of the optical fiber are then polished to a roughness of 0.3 microns or less.
- the length of the optical fiber and the sheath are essentially identical.
- FIG. 1A depicts a cross section of a prior art optical fiber.
- FIG. 1B depicts a cross section of a sheathed optical fiber of the inventive concept.
- FIG. 2 depicts a longitudinal section of a sheathed optical fiber of the inventive concept.
- FIG. 3 schematically depicts a flow chart of a method of manufacturing a sheathed optical fiber of the inventive concept.
- FIG. 4 provides examples of calculations that can be used to determine acceptable optical device and optical fiber dimensions.
- An optical appliance for the safe, efficient, and convenient illumination of the vasculature of a mammal is provided herein.
- illumination can, for example, be provided for the purposes of photodynamic therapy.
- photodynamic therapy can be provided to flowing blood that is proximal to the fiber optic appliance when it is in use, and the fiber optic appliance can be configured to optimize the delivery of electromagnetic energy towards that end.
- a terminus of the fiber optic appliance is configured to optimize delivery of electromagnetic energy from a source of such energy to an optical fiber component without the use of bulky and difficult to align active optics (for example, a lens), which decreases the utility of such a device in a photodynamic therapy setting.
- a terminus of the fiber optic appliance is configured to deliver electromagnetic energy at high intensity over a volume that is appropriate to provide adequate coverage of a segment of a peripheral blood vessel (such as a blood vessel that is conveniently located for safe and relatively painless application of photodynamic therapy).
- the fiber optic based appliance also includes a biocompatible sheath that provides a degree of stiffness and resilience to an optical fiber that aids proper placement, while containing fragments of such an optical fiber thereby preventing such fragments from entering the circulatory system should breakage occur.
- inventive subject matter is considered to include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements.
- inventive subject matter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.
- FIG. 1A A cross section of an optical fiber of the prior art is shown in FIG. 1A .
- Such an optical fiber includes a core 100 , a cladding 110 , and a jacket 120 .
- the core 100 is made from a light-transmitting plastic, quartz, silica, or similar transmissive material.
- the cladding 110 has a refractive index that differs from that of the core, and results in total internal reflectance of light through the core and efficient transfer of light through the optical fiber.
- the jacket 120 provides a degree of mechanical support for the core 100 and the cladding 110 , and is typically made from polyimide.
- the numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, properties such as concentration, reaction conditions, and so forth, used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention are to be understood as being modified in some instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable.
- FIG. 1B A cross section of an optical device of the inventive concept is shown in FIG. 1B .
- An optical fiber suitable for use in embodiments of the inventive concept can be single-mode fiber or a multi-mode fiber.
- a core 100 of material that transmits electromagnetic radiation is provided.
- the core 100 efficiently transmits both ultraviolet (i.e. UVA, UVB, and/or UVC) and visible wavelengths of light.
- Suitable optical fibers have an attenuation of less than 2 dB/m at wavelengths ranging from about 200 nm to about 400 nm, and less than 200 dB/km at wavelengths ranging from about 400 nm to about 900 nm.
- Suitable materials for the core 100 include silica, fluorozirconate, fluoroaluminate, chalcogenide glass, and/or sapphire. Polymers, such as polymethylmethacrylate, polystyrene, polycarbonate, and/or perfluorinated polymers (for example poly(perfluoro-butenylvinyl ether)) can also be used.
- the core 100 is at least partially composed of silica. This is counterintuitive, as silica is relatively fragile and would not generally be considered a suitable material for placement in the vasculature.
- the core 100 is surrounded by a cladding 110 , for example a doped silica, that has an index of refraction that supports internal reflectance along the core of ultraviolet, visible, and/or infrared light and enables efficient transmission.
- the cladding 110 is surrounded by a jacket 120 .
- Suitable materials for the jacket 120 include acrylate, silicone, polyimide, polyurethane, and/or polyvinylchloride.
- the jacket 120 is at least partially made of polyimide.
- the jacket 120 can be removed from the optical fiber prior to assembly of the sheathed optical fiber or, alternatively, an optical fiber can be used that was manufactured without a jacket 120 .
- a terminus of the optical fiber can be modified to incorporate an active optical element, such as a lens or prism, that serves to redistribute light exiting the optical fiber.
- an active optical element such as a lens or prism
- a terminus of an optical fiber could be ground or otherwise sculpted such that the core 100 or the core 100 and cladding 110 provide a partially spherical (for example hemispherical) lens, a plano-concave lens, or a plano-convex lens.
- a terminus of an optical fiber could be ground or otherwise sculpted to a predetermined angle to form a prism.
- a lens, prism, or other device is affixed to a terminus of the optical fiber (for example, using heat, friction, and/or a suitable adhesive) to receive electromagnetic energy that exits the optical fiber.
- the lens or prism can serve to redirect, collimate, focus, and/or disperse electromagnetic energy as it exits the fiber optic component of the sheathed optical fiber, thereby providing a more desirable dispersion of the electromagnetic energy.
- the outer diameter of the jacket 120 is selected to fit within a sheath 140 as described below. Suitable diameters for the jacket 120 range from about 60 ⁇ m to about 1400 ⁇ m. In other embodiments of the inventive concept the diameter of the jacket 120 ranges from about 450 ⁇ m to about 1300 ⁇ m. In a preferred embodiment of the inventive concept the diameter of the jacket 120 , and hence the optical fiber, is 480 ⁇ m ( ⁇ 7 ⁇ m) or smaller.
- the optical device of the inventive concept shown in FIG. 1B additionally includes a sheath 140 .
- the sheath 140 is made of a biocompatible material, for example nylon, polycarbonate, fluoropolymers, titanium, titanium/aluminum alloys, stainless steels (for example, 304 stainless steel), and/or cobalt/chromium/molybdenum alloys.
- the material of the sheath 140 is selected to provide a degree of stiffness that permits accurate placement of the optical device within the vasculature, for example holding it in a suitable central location within a peripheral vein.
- the material of the sheath 140 is also selected to provide a degree of resilience, such that the optical device can be bent or angled slightly, for example during the process of insertion into the vasculature, and maintain an essentially straight or slightly curved configuration.
- the sheath 140 is at least partially composed a passivated stainless steel.
- the sheath 140 can be constructed from hollow tubing, such as that utilized in the production of hypodermic needles used for access to the peripheral vasculature.
- the size of such tubing is frequently expressed as a gauge; tubing ranging from 27 gauge to 6 gauge is considered suitable for use as a sheath. This corresponds to an outer diameter ranging from about 0.4 mm to about 5.2 mm.
- tubing ranging from 23 gauge (an outer diameter of about 0.64 mm) to 16 gauge (an outer diameter of about 1.5 mm) is utilized as a sheath.
- 23 gauge tubing with an outer diameter of about 0.64 mm is used.
- the diameter of the jacket 120 is selected to be smaller than that of the internal diameter of the sheath 140 .
- 21 gauge tubing (with an outer diameter of about 0.81 mm and an inner diameter of about 0.64 mm) is used in conjunction with an optical fiber having an outer diameter of about 0.63 mm.
- 26 gauge tubing (with an outer diameter of about 0.46 mm and an inner diameter of about 0.36 mm) is used in conjunction with an optical fiber having an outer diameter of about 0.35 mm.
- 23 gauge tubing with an outer diameter of about 0.64 mm and an inner diameter of about 0.485 mm is used in conjunction with an optical fiber having an outer diameter of about 0.482 mm.
- optical fibers that lack a jacket 120 are contemplated, and it should be appreciated that such embodiments permit the use of optical fibers with cores 100 of larger diameter than when optical fibers with jackets are used. As a result, use of unjacketed optical fibers can provide more effective transmission of light.
- the average span of this gap 130 can range from 0.1 ⁇ m to 60 ⁇ m. In other embodiments the average span of this gap 130 can range from about 0.2 ⁇ m to about 20 ⁇ m. In a preferred embodiment the average width of this gap 130 is about 1.3 ⁇ m.
- this gap 130 is occupied by a fixative.
- This fixative is distributed so as to effectively contain fragments of the core 100 , cladding 110 , and/or jacket 120 within the sheath 140 in the event of breakage.
- the fixative can be distributed across essentially the entirety (i.e. greater than 95%) of the length of the gap 130 .
- the fixative can be distributed such that it occupies at least portions of the gap 130 at or near the termini of the optical device.
- the fixative can occupy at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or more of the gap 130 .
- the fixative fills essentially the entire (i.e. greater than 95%) volume of the gap 130 .
- Suitable fixatives are available as flowable or liquid precursors that cure (i.e. react, set, cool, or otherwise solidify) to form a solid or semisolid fixative, and are compatible with body fluids and/or pharmaceutically acceptable liquid vehicles (for example, physiological or 0.9% sodium chloride saline solution).
- Suitable fixatives include styrene, acrylonitrile, natural rubber, neoprene polyurethane, silicone rubber, and/or epoxy resin.
- the fixative should be selected to minimize impact on the optical fiber during the curing process. For example, outgassing during curing can result in the formation of deposits on the optical surfaces of the optical fiber that can require extensive post-production processing to remove.
- the fixative is an epoxy resin, for example the product currently known as ANGSTROM BOND® 9112. It should be appreciated that when an optical fiber with a jacket 120 is utilized the fixative contacts the jacket 120 , whereas if an optical fiber without a jacket is utilized the fixative contacts the cladding 110 .
- the fixative can be selected to be transparent or at least partially transmissive to light.
- the amount and/or distribution of fixative can be characterized by monitoring light transmitted through the fixative of the sheathed optical fiber (for example, by illuminating an end of the sheathed optical fiber and characterizing light emitted from the fixative-occupied gap 130 ).
- FIG. 2 shows a longitudinal section of a terminus of an optical device of the inventive concept.
- the device includes a core 200 , a cladding 210 , a jacket 220 , and a sheath 240 .
- the gap or intraluminal space 230 between the inner wall of the sheath 240 and the surface of the jacket 220 is occupied by a fixative.
- the terminus of the optical appliance includes a face 250 .
- the face 250 can be configured to optimize optical coupling with a source of electromagnetic energy. In prior art devices such optical coupling is often provided using active optics, for example a lens, that focus or otherwise direct light into the core of an optical fiber.
- a face 250 of the optical device can be configured to provide an essentially planar presentation, wherein the plane of the face 250 is within 3° of normal to the major axis of the sheath 240 . In a preferred embodiment the plane of the face 250 is within 1° of normal to the major axis of the sheath 240 .
- This feature permits accurate, head-on alignment with a suitable source of electromagnetic energy when the optical device is utilized with a fitting that aligns with the major axis of the sheath 240 .
- the face 250 can also have a surface finish that reduces loss of light due to reflection and diffraction.
- the face 250 can have a surface roughness of less than 50 ⁇ m, less than 25 ⁇ m, less than 5 ⁇ m, less than 3 ⁇ m, or less than 1 ⁇ m.
- the face 250 has a surface roughness of less than 3 ⁇ m.
- Surface roughness can also be expressed in terms of a scratch and dig surface defect standard. Using such a standard, the face 250 can have a scratch/dig rating of 40/20 or less. In a preferred embodiment of the inventive concept the surface roughness of the face 250 is about 10/5 or better when compared against a scratch and dig surface defect standard.
- an optical device of the inventive concept can be utilized by inserting it within an intravenous catheter or cannula.
- the outer diameter of the sheath of the optical device can be selected to be less than that of an inner diameter of such an intravenous catheter or cannula.
- the resulting gap between the sheath and the inner wall of the cannula can, if desired, support the flow of a pharmacologically acceptable fluid (for example, 0.9% sterile saline) around and past the optical device when in use.
- the length of the optical device can be selected such that a terminus remains within an intravenous catheter when in use.
- the length of the optical device is selected so that the optical device lies entirely inside of a catheter or cannula when in use, with a terminus of the optical device positioned between about 1 mm and about 8 mm from an opening of the catheter or cannula that is exposed to the interior of a vasculature. In other embodiments the length of the optical device is selected so that the optical device lies entirely inside of a catheter or cannula when in use, with a terminus of the optical device positioned between about 2 mm and about 6.5 mm from an opening of the catheter or cannula that is exposed to the interior of a vasculature.
- an optical device of the inventive concept can be used in conjunction with a suitable positioning device that includes a fitting or similar device which permits coupling to an intravenous catheter or cannula, and that the length of the optical device can be selected to accommodate such a device and catheter or cannula.
- Suitable lengths for the optical device can range from about 38 mm to about 89 mm. In a preferred embodiment the length of the optical device is about 70 mm.
- FIG. 3 schematically depicts such a method.
- a sheath is secured 300 , for example in a vertical orientation relative to a major axis of the sheath.
- a flowable fixative or fixative precursor (for example, a resin-based fixative prior to curing) is then introduced to the interior of the sheath 310 . This can, for example, be accomplished by injecting the flowable fixative or fixative precursor into the opening at the upper terminus of the sheath.
- An optical fiber is then introduced into the interior of the sheath 320 .
- the fixative is then cured 340 , for example by heating in an oven or similar device, affixing the optical fiber to the interior of the sheath.
- the ends of the sheath and the optical fiber are then processed 350 , for example by polishing to produce the required surface finish and planar orientation of the face of the optical device relative to a major axis of the sheath.
- the sheath can be trimmed to the desired length prior to processing to provide the desired orientation and surface roughness of a face of the optical device.
- the optical fiber is produced by an extrusion process that includes application of a fixative to the surface of the optical fiber.
- the optical fiber can be produced with or without a jacket.
- the extruded optical fiber with fixative applied to its surface can then be introduced into a sheath and the fixative cured, as described above.
- a length of such extruded optical fiber is placed within a length of sheath material or tubing, where the length exceeds that of the optical device.
- the optical fiber and sheath combination can then be trimmed or cut to a length or lengths approximating that of the final optical device to provide one or more intermediate pieces.
- Such trimming or cutting can occur either before or after curing of the fixative.
- the intermediate pieces can then be finished by appropriate cutting, trimming, and/or polishing processes in order to provide one or more finished optical device(s).
- the dimensions of the lumen of the cannula within which the optical device lies drive the selection of the sheath and hence the optical fiber components of the optical device.
- the dimensions of such catheters and cannulas is dependent on their intended use and the dimensions of the vascular space into which they are inserted.
- a catheter intended for pediatric use in a peripheral vein can be a 22 gauge catheter, wherein a catheter used in veterinary practice or in emergency situations can be as large as 18 gauge.
- Optical devices of the inventive concept for use in such catheters can be selected so as to permit sufficient residual volume between the sheath of the optical device and the inner wall of the lumen of the catheter or cannula to permit fluid flow.
- the minimum flow rate through a 24 gauge catheter can be selected as a minimum desirable flow rate through a catheter or cannula with a lumen occupied by an optical device of the inventive concept.
- This flow rate can be used in combination with the size of the catheter or cannula to be used to determine the maximum acceptable diameter of the optical device (and hence the sheath), which in turn can be used to determine the maximum acceptable diameter of the optical fiber. Examples of such calculations performed for optical devices for use in 18, 20, and 22 gauge intravenous catheters are provided in FIG. 4 .
- optical devices of the inventive concept are suitable for illumination of the vasculature of a vertebrate.
- an optical device that includes a sheathed optical fiber wherein an optical fiber lies entirely within a sheath is introduced into the vasculature of a mammal (for example, a human).
- a fixative occupies space between the optical fiber and the sheath.
- the optical device is placed essentially centrally within a peripheral vein. Illumination is provided by introducing electromagnetic energy (for example, by providing optical communication with a source of electromagnetic energy) to the terminus of the optical device that lies outside of the vascular space, such that electromagnetic energy exits a terminus of the optical device that lies within the vascular space.
- the optical device within the vascular space lies within an intravascular catheter or cannula, such that the optical device itself is not directly exposed to the intravascular space.
Abstract
Description
- This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/957,464 filed on Jul. 3, 2013, U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/957,465 filed on Jul. 3, 2013, U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/887,670 filed on Oct. 7, 2013 and U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 14/323,180 filed on Jul. 3, 2014. These and all other referenced extrinsic materials are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Where a definition or use of a term in a reference that is incorporated by reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein is deemed to be controlling.
- This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/323,217, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,827,438, titled “Vascular Access Device with Integrated Light Guide”, international patent application Ser. No. PCT/US2014/045460, titled “Vascular Access Device with Integrated Light Guide”, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/323,244, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,814,899, titled “Systems and Methods for In Vivo Irradiation of Blood”, and international patent application Ser. No. PCT/US2014/045465, titled “Systems and Methods for In Vivo Irradiation of Blood”. All of these U.S. and international patent applications are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
- The present invention generally relates to devices and methods for treatment of human blood. More particularly, the present invention relates to devices and methods for irradiating human blood in vivo.
- It has long been accepted that certain wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation, such as ultraviolet light, have the ability to affect biological and chemical structures. For example, the formation of thymine dimers under the influence of ultraviolet light is well known and has been utilized to sterilize surfaces by killing or inactivating a variety of pathogens. In the early 1900's efforts were made to incorporate exposure to ultraviolet light as a treatment modality for various diseases, including bacterial and viral infections. Procedures were typically extracorporeal; a volume of blood would be removed from a patient, irradiated to modify a patient's immune response and/or inactivate pathogens, and returned to the patient. Such efforts were hindered, however, by the sources of ultraviolet light available at the time. UV lamps of the time period did not operate reliably, produced inconsistent illumination, and generated large amounts of heat. The development of effective and reliable antibiotics that were easily administered resulted in a loss of interest in this therapeutic approach.
- The increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens and the recognition of potential effectiveness for the treatment of noninfectious medical conditions has led to an increasing interest in the use of blood irradiation as a treatment modality. A variety of devices for improved extracorporeal irradiation of blood have been proposed. For example, International Patent Application No. WO2006128047 (to W. F. Harding et al) and United States Patent Application No. 2006/157,426 (to T. R. Petrie) disclose devices for the irradiation of volumes of blood taken from a patient using devices that incorporate shutters or similar mechanisms that allow finer control of the degree of irradiation. Other extracorporeal devices have included mechanisms for mixing the volume of blood taken from the patient in order to improve exposure during the irradiation process. Both active agitation of blood (European Patent No. EP0951305B1, to L. B. Morris) and use of static mixers with plasma preparations (United States Patent Application No. 2003/127,603, to B. Horowits, X. Wang, and L. D. Barr) have been disclosed. Approaches involving the removal and reinfusion of a specific volume of blood are, however, necessarily limited in their ability to irradiate large blood volumes from an individual. In addition, they expose the patient to the risk of reinfusion with treated blood from a different individual, through either mislabeling or human error. Approaches in which blood is removed, irradiated, and returned to the patient in a continuous fashion have been described (United States Patent Application No. 2013/0,101,464 to M. S. Smyczynski), however such extracorporeal approaches necessarily involve the use of complex equipment, damage to blood cells and platelets through exposure to equipment surfaces, and formation of blood clots.
- Alternative methods for the irradiation of blood have been proposed. For example, European Patent Application No. 2,179,767 A1, to F. Kokos and L. Jurinyi, discloses a device for irradiation of blood through the membranes of the patient's nasal mucosa. Various devices have also been developed that permit direct irradiation of blood or tissue within the vasculature or body cavity of a patient. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,693,556 (to McCaughan) describes placing an optical fiber equipped with an optical radiator into a body cavity. U.S. Pat. No. 5,505,725 (to Samson) describes instilling an optical fiber directly into a vein by insertion through a hypodermic needle. Such approaches, however, fail to provide for the accidental breakage of the inserted optical fiber and the subsequent loss of efficient irradiation and release of the resulting fragments into circulation. Such breakage is a known issue with quartz or silica materials that are typically utilized in optical fibers transmitting, particularly when subjected to relatively sharp bends such as upon insertion into a vein. In addition, such optical fibers lack sufficient rigidity to remain in one position within a vein when subjected to the pulsatile flow of blood, and may collide with and damage the interior of the vein. U.S. Pat. No. 5,053,033 (to Clarke) and U.S. Pat. No. 7,811,281 (to Rentrop) describe the use of plastic catheters with imbedded optical fiber for delivering light energy to the site of atherosclerotic plaques. These, however, lack features that prevent the fiber optic from bending to the point of fragmentation and may not be compatible with smaller peripheral blood vessels.
- These and all other extrinsic materials discussed herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.
- While certain devices and methods are known in the art to irradiate blood, all or almost all of them suffer from one or more disadvantages. Thus, there is still a need for simple device for the effective in vivo irradiation of blood.
- The inventive subject matter provides a sheathed optical fiber useful in illuminating the vasculature of a vertebrate and methods for manufacturing and using such a sheathed optical fiber. The sheathed optical fiber includes an optical fiber that lies within the lumen of a hollow sheath, with at least a portion of the space remaining within the lumen of the sheath occupied by a fixative. The sheath is dimensioned to facilitate placement within a vascular space, and the exposed faces of the optical fiber are machined and polished to provide efficient optical coupling without the need for active optics.
- In one embodiment of the inventive concept, a sheathed optical fiber includes a sheath with a lumen and an optical fiber. The optical fiber includes a core, a cladding, and a jacket, and the core is composed of a material that is substantially transparent to ultraviolet, visible, and/or infrared wavelengths of light (for example, silica). The sheath is composed of a biologically compatible material, such as passivated stainless steel. The sheath can be pliant, permitting a degree of flexion, and can also be resilient. The entirety of the optical fiber lies within the lumen of the sheath and has the same length as the sheath, such that the ends of the optical fiber and the ends of the sheath coincide. The diameter of the optical fiber is less than the diameter of the sheath's lumen, and at least part (for example, at least 95%) of the volume within the sheath that is not occupied by the optical fiber is occupied by a fixative. The fixative is distributed throughout this volume so as to contain fragments of the optical fiber (should the optical fiber be damaged or broken), and can be transparent to ultraviolet and/or visible light. In some embodiments the fixative is resistant to degradation when exposed to pharmaceutically acceptable solutions, and can be an epoxy resin. The ends of the optical fiber are substantially perpendicular to the major axis of the sheathed optical fiber and are polished to a surface roughness of 0.3 microns or less. The diameter of the sheathed optical fiber permits it to lie within a lumen of an intravenous catheter, leaving an average distance of about 0.04 mm or more between the surface of the sheathed optical fiber and the wall of the lumen of the catheter, assuming a typical sheathed outer diameter of 0.75 mm or less.
- Another embodiment of the inventive concept is a method of illuminating a vasculature using a sheathed optical fiber. In such an embodiment a sheathed optical fiber having a sheath, an optical fiber, and a fixative is placed within a vascular space, and electromagnetic energy is applied to the sheathed optical fiber. The optical fiber is the same length as the sheath and lies entirely within a lumen of the sheath, with a fixative occupying some or all of the space within the lumen that is not occupied by the optical fiber.
- Still another embodiment of the inventive concept is a method for manufacturing a sheathed optical fiber. In this method a volume of uncured fixative is placed within the lumen of a sheath. An optical fiber having a core, cladding, and a jacket is then advanced through the lumen, beginning at the end of the sheath through which the uncured fixative was introduced. After the desired length of optical fiber has been placed in the lumen excess uncured fixative is removed, and the remaining fixative is cured. The exposed ends of the optical fiber are then polished to a roughness of 0.3 microns or less. In some embodiments the length of the optical fiber and the sheath are essentially identical.
- Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.
-
FIG. 1A depicts a cross section of a prior art optical fiber.FIG. 1B depicts a cross section of a sheathed optical fiber of the inventive concept. -
FIG. 2 depicts a longitudinal section of a sheathed optical fiber of the inventive concept. -
FIG. 3 schematically depicts a flow chart of a method of manufacturing a sheathed optical fiber of the inventive concept. -
FIG. 4 provides examples of calculations that can be used to determine acceptable optical device and optical fiber dimensions. - An optical appliance for the safe, efficient, and convenient illumination of the vasculature of a mammal is provided herein. Such illumination can, for example, be provided for the purposes of photodynamic therapy. Such photodynamic therapy can be provided to flowing blood that is proximal to the fiber optic appliance when it is in use, and the fiber optic appliance can be configured to optimize the delivery of electromagnetic energy towards that end. For example, a terminus of the fiber optic appliance is configured to optimize delivery of electromagnetic energy from a source of such energy to an optical fiber component without the use of bulky and difficult to align active optics (for example, a lens), which decreases the utility of such a device in a photodynamic therapy setting. Similarly, a terminus of the fiber optic appliance is configured to deliver electromagnetic energy at high intensity over a volume that is appropriate to provide adequate coverage of a segment of a peripheral blood vessel (such as a blood vessel that is conveniently located for safe and relatively painless application of photodynamic therapy). The fiber optic based appliance also includes a biocompatible sheath that provides a degree of stiffness and resilience to an optical fiber that aids proper placement, while containing fragments of such an optical fiber thereby preventing such fragments from entering the circulatory system should breakage occur.
- The following discussion provides many example embodiments of the inventive subject matter. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, the inventive subject matter is considered to include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the inventive subject matter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.
- A cross section of an optical fiber of the prior art is shown in
FIG. 1A . Such an optical fiber includes acore 100, acladding 110, and ajacket 120. Thecore 100 is made from a light-transmitting plastic, quartz, silica, or similar transmissive material. Thecladding 110 has a refractive index that differs from that of the core, and results in total internal reflectance of light through the core and efficient transfer of light through the optical fiber. Thejacket 120 provides a degree of mechanical support for thecore 100 and thecladding 110, and is typically made from polyimide. - In some embodiments, the numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, properties such as concentration, reaction conditions, and so forth, used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention are to be understood as being modified in some instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable. Similarly, all ranges set forth herein should be interpreted as being inclusive of their endpoints, and open-ended ranges should be interpreted to include only commercially practical values. Similarly, all lists of values should be considered as inclusive of intermediate values unless the context indicates the contrary.
- All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
- A cross section of an optical device of the inventive concept is shown in
FIG. 1B . An optical fiber suitable for use in embodiments of the inventive concept can be single-mode fiber or a multi-mode fiber. Acore 100 of material that transmits electromagnetic radiation is provided. In a preferred embodiment thecore 100 efficiently transmits both ultraviolet (i.e. UVA, UVB, and/or UVC) and visible wavelengths of light. Suitable optical fibers have an attenuation of less than 2 dB/m at wavelengths ranging from about 200 nm to about 400 nm, and less than 200 dB/km at wavelengths ranging from about 400 nm to about 900 nm. Suitable materials for the core 100 include silica, fluorozirconate, fluoroaluminate, chalcogenide glass, and/or sapphire. Polymers, such as polymethylmethacrylate, polystyrene, polycarbonate, and/or perfluorinated polymers (for example poly(perfluoro-butenylvinyl ether)) can also be used. In a preferred embodiment of the inventive concept thecore 100 is at least partially composed of silica. This is counterintuitive, as silica is relatively fragile and would not generally be considered a suitable material for placement in the vasculature. Thecore 100 is surrounded by acladding 110, for example a doped silica, that has an index of refraction that supports internal reflectance along the core of ultraviolet, visible, and/or infrared light and enables efficient transmission. Thecladding 110 is surrounded by ajacket 120. Suitable materials for thejacket 120 include acrylate, silicone, polyimide, polyurethane, and/or polyvinylchloride. In a preferred embodiment of the inventive concept thejacket 120 is at least partially made of polyimide. In some embodiments thejacket 120 can be removed from the optical fiber prior to assembly of the sheathed optical fiber or, alternatively, an optical fiber can be used that was manufactured without ajacket 120. - In some embodiments of the inventive concept a terminus of the optical fiber can be modified to incorporate an active optical element, such as a lens or prism, that serves to redistribute light exiting the optical fiber. For example, a terminus of an optical fiber could be ground or otherwise sculpted such that the
core 100 or thecore 100 andcladding 110 provide a partially spherical (for example hemispherical) lens, a plano-concave lens, or a plano-convex lens. Alternatively, a terminus of an optical fiber could be ground or otherwise sculpted to a predetermined angle to form a prism. In another embodiment of the inventive concept, a lens, prism, or other device is affixed to a terminus of the optical fiber (for example, using heat, friction, and/or a suitable adhesive) to receive electromagnetic energy that exits the optical fiber. In such embodiments the lens or prism can serve to redirect, collimate, focus, and/or disperse electromagnetic energy as it exits the fiber optic component of the sheathed optical fiber, thereby providing a more desirable dispersion of the electromagnetic energy. - The outer diameter of the
jacket 120 is selected to fit within asheath 140 as described below. Suitable diameters for thejacket 120 range from about 60 μm to about 1400 μm. In other embodiments of the inventive concept the diameter of thejacket 120 ranges from about 450 μm to about 1300 μm. In a preferred embodiment of the inventive concept the diameter of thejacket 120, and hence the optical fiber, is 480 μm (±7 μm) or smaller. - The optical device of the inventive concept shown in
FIG. 1B additionally includes asheath 140. Thesheath 140 is made of a biocompatible material, for example nylon, polycarbonate, fluoropolymers, titanium, titanium/aluminum alloys, stainless steels (for example, 304 stainless steel), and/or cobalt/chromium/molybdenum alloys. The material of thesheath 140 is selected to provide a degree of stiffness that permits accurate placement of the optical device within the vasculature, for example holding it in a suitable central location within a peripheral vein. The material of thesheath 140 is also selected to provide a degree of resilience, such that the optical device can be bent or angled slightly, for example during the process of insertion into the vasculature, and maintain an essentially straight or slightly curved configuration. In a preferred embodiment thesheath 140 is at least partially composed a passivated stainless steel. - In a preferred embodiment the
sheath 140 can be constructed from hollow tubing, such as that utilized in the production of hypodermic needles used for access to the peripheral vasculature. The size of such tubing is frequently expressed as a gauge; tubing ranging from 27 gauge to 6 gauge is considered suitable for use as a sheath. This corresponds to an outer diameter ranging from about 0.4 mm to about 5.2 mm. In some embodiments tubing ranging from 23 gauge (an outer diameter of about 0.64 mm) to 16 gauge (an outer diameter of about 1.5 mm) is utilized as a sheath. In a preferred embodiment, 23 gauge tubing with an outer diameter of about 0.64 mm is used. In such embodiments the diameter of thejacket 120 is selected to be smaller than that of the internal diameter of thesheath 140. In some embodiments, 21 gauge tubing (with an outer diameter of about 0.81 mm and an inner diameter of about 0.64 mm) is used in conjunction with an optical fiber having an outer diameter of about 0.63 mm. In still another embodiment of the inventive concept, 26 gauge tubing (with an outer diameter of about 0.46 mm and an inner diameter of about 0.36 mm) is used in conjunction with an optical fiber having an outer diameter of about 0.35 mm. In a preferred embodiment, 23 gauge tubing with an outer diameter of about 0.64 mm and an inner diameter of about 0.485 mm is used in conjunction with an optical fiber having an outer diameter of about 0.482 mm. The use of optical fibers that lack ajacket 120 is contemplated, and it should be appreciated that such embodiments permit the use of optical fibers withcores 100 of larger diameter than when optical fibers with jackets are used. As a result, use of unjacketed optical fibers can provide more effective transmission of light. - Use of a
jacket 120 with a diameter less than that of the internal diameter of thesheath 140 necessarily leaves a gap orintraluminal space 130 between the inner wall of thesheath 140 and the surface of thejacket 120. In some embodiments the average span of thisgap 130 can range from 0.1 μm to 60 μm. In other embodiments the average span of thisgap 130 can range from about 0.2 μm to about 20 μm. In a preferred embodiment the average width of thisgap 130 is about 1.3 μm. - In an optical device of the inventive concept at least a portion of this
gap 130 is occupied by a fixative. This fixative is distributed so as to effectively contain fragments of thecore 100, cladding 110, and/orjacket 120 within thesheath 140 in the event of breakage. For example, the fixative can be distributed across essentially the entirety (i.e. greater than 95%) of the length of thegap 130. Alternatively, the fixative can be distributed such that it occupies at least portions of thegap 130 at or near the termini of the optical device. The fixative can occupy at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or more of thegap 130. In a preferred embodiment of the inventive concept the fixative fills essentially the entire (i.e. greater than 95%) volume of thegap 130. - Suitable fixatives are available as flowable or liquid precursors that cure (i.e. react, set, cool, or otherwise solidify) to form a solid or semisolid fixative, and are compatible with body fluids and/or pharmaceutically acceptable liquid vehicles (for example, physiological or 0.9% sodium chloride saline solution). Suitable fixatives include styrene, acrylonitrile, natural rubber, neoprene polyurethane, silicone rubber, and/or epoxy resin. The fixative should be selected to minimize impact on the optical fiber during the curing process. For example, outgassing during curing can result in the formation of deposits on the optical surfaces of the optical fiber that can require extensive post-production processing to remove. In a preferred embodiment the fixative is an epoxy resin, for example the product currently known as ANGSTROM BOND® 9112. It should be appreciated that when an optical fiber with a
jacket 120 is utilized the fixative contacts thejacket 120, whereas if an optical fiber without a jacket is utilized the fixative contacts thecladding 110. - In some embodiments of the inventive concept, the fixative can be selected to be transparent or at least partially transmissive to light. In such embodiments, the amount and/or distribution of fixative can be characterized by monitoring light transmitted through the fixative of the sheathed optical fiber (for example, by illuminating an end of the sheathed optical fiber and characterizing light emitted from the fixative-occupied gap 130).
-
FIG. 2 shows a longitudinal section of a terminus of an optical device of the inventive concept. As inFIG. 1B , the device includes acore 200, acladding 210, ajacket 220, and asheath 240. In this instance the gap orintraluminal space 230 between the inner wall of thesheath 240 and the surface of thejacket 220 is occupied by a fixative. The terminus of the optical appliance includes aface 250. Theface 250 can be configured to optimize optical coupling with a source of electromagnetic energy. In prior art devices such optical coupling is often provided using active optics, for example a lens, that focus or otherwise direct light into the core of an optical fiber. Such active optics, however, add weight and bulk that is highly undesirable in an optical device configured for insertion into the peripheral vasculature. Towards this end, aface 250 of the optical device can be configured to provide an essentially planar presentation, wherein the plane of theface 250 is within 3° of normal to the major axis of thesheath 240. In a preferred embodiment the plane of theface 250 is within 1° of normal to the major axis of thesheath 240. This feature permits accurate, head-on alignment with a suitable source of electromagnetic energy when the optical device is utilized with a fitting that aligns with the major axis of thesheath 240. - The
face 250 can also have a surface finish that reduces loss of light due to reflection and diffraction. For example, theface 250 can have a surface roughness of less than 50 μm, less than 25 μm, less than 5 μm, less than 3 μm, or less than 1 μm. In a preferred embodiment of the inventive concept, theface 250 has a surface roughness of less than 3 μm. Surface roughness can also be expressed in terms of a scratch and dig surface defect standard. Using such a standard, theface 250 can have a scratch/dig rating of 40/20 or less. In a preferred embodiment of the inventive concept the surface roughness of theface 250 is about 10/5 or better when compared against a scratch and dig surface defect standard. - It is contemplated that in use, an optical device of the inventive concept can be utilized by inserting it within an intravenous catheter or cannula. In such an embodiment, the outer diameter of the sheath of the optical device can be selected to be less than that of an inner diameter of such an intravenous catheter or cannula. The resulting gap between the sheath and the inner wall of the cannula can, if desired, support the flow of a pharmacologically acceptable fluid (for example, 0.9% sterile saline) around and past the optical device when in use. Similarly, the length of the optical device can be selected such that a terminus remains within an intravenous catheter when in use. In some embodiments of the inventive concept, the length of the optical device is selected so that the optical device lies entirely inside of a catheter or cannula when in use, with a terminus of the optical device positioned between about 1 mm and about 8 mm from an opening of the catheter or cannula that is exposed to the interior of a vasculature. In other embodiments the length of the optical device is selected so that the optical device lies entirely inside of a catheter or cannula when in use, with a terminus of the optical device positioned between about 2 mm and about 6.5 mm from an opening of the catheter or cannula that is exposed to the interior of a vasculature. It is contemplated that an optical device of the inventive concept can be used in conjunction with a suitable positioning device that includes a fitting or similar device which permits coupling to an intravenous catheter or cannula, and that the length of the optical device can be selected to accommodate such a device and catheter or cannula. Suitable lengths for the optical device can range from about 38 mm to about 89 mm. In a preferred embodiment the length of the optical device is about 70 mm.
- Another embodiment of the inventive concept is a method for producing an optical device suitable for illuminating the vasculature of a mammal.
FIG. 3 schematically depicts such a method. Initially a sheath is secured 300, for example in a vertical orientation relative to a major axis of the sheath. A flowable fixative or fixative precursor (for example, a resin-based fixative prior to curing) is then introduced to the interior of thesheath 310. This can, for example, be accomplished by injecting the flowable fixative or fixative precursor into the opening at the upper terminus of the sheath. An optical fiber is then introduced into the interior of thesheath 320. This can displace excess flowable fixative or fixative precursor within the sheath; this excess fixative is subsequently removed 330. The fixative is then cured 340, for example by heating in an oven or similar device, affixing the optical fiber to the interior of the sheath. The ends of the sheath and the optical fiber are then processed 350, for example by polishing to produce the required surface finish and planar orientation of the face of the optical device relative to a major axis of the sheath. Optionally, the sheath can be trimmed to the desired length prior to processing to provide the desired orientation and surface roughness of a face of the optical device. - In an alternative embodiment of a method for producing an optical device of the inventive concept, the optical fiber is produced by an extrusion process that includes application of a fixative to the surface of the optical fiber. In such an extrusion process the optical fiber can be produced with or without a jacket. The extruded optical fiber with fixative applied to its surface can then be introduced into a sheath and the fixative cured, as described above. In some embodiments, a length of such extruded optical fiber is placed within a length of sheath material or tubing, where the length exceeds that of the optical device. The optical fiber and sheath combination can then be trimmed or cut to a length or lengths approximating that of the final optical device to provide one or more intermediate pieces. Such trimming or cutting can occur either before or after curing of the fixative. Following curing of the fixative, the intermediate pieces can then be finished by appropriate cutting, trimming, and/or polishing processes in order to provide one or more finished optical device(s).
- It should be appreciated that, when intended for use in applications involving insertion into a catheter or cannula, the dimensions of the lumen of the cannula within which the optical device lies drive the selection of the sheath and hence the optical fiber components of the optical device. As noted above, in some applications it can be desirable to provide a flow of a pharmacologically acceptable fluid through a lumen of a catheter or cannula that is also occupied by an optical device of the inventive concept. The dimensions of such catheters and cannulas is dependent on their intended use and the dimensions of the vascular space into which they are inserted. For example, a catheter intended for pediatric use in a peripheral vein can be a 22 gauge catheter, wherein a catheter used in veterinary practice or in emergency situations can be as large as 18 gauge. Optical devices of the inventive concept for use in such catheters can be selected so as to permit sufficient residual volume between the sheath of the optical device and the inner wall of the lumen of the catheter or cannula to permit fluid flow. For example, the minimum flow rate through a 24 gauge catheter can be selected as a minimum desirable flow rate through a catheter or cannula with a lumen occupied by an optical device of the inventive concept. This flow rate can be used in combination with the size of the catheter or cannula to be used to determine the maximum acceptable diameter of the optical device (and hence the sheath), which in turn can be used to determine the maximum acceptable diameter of the optical fiber. Examples of such calculations performed for optical devices for use in 18, 20, and 22 gauge intravenous catheters are provided in
FIG. 4 . - As noted above, optical devices of the inventive concept are suitable for illumination of the vasculature of a vertebrate. In a method of the inventive concept, an optical device that includes a sheathed optical fiber wherein an optical fiber lies entirely within a sheath is introduced into the vasculature of a mammal (for example, a human). In such an embodiment a fixative occupies space between the optical fiber and the sheath. In a preferred embodiment the optical device is placed essentially centrally within a peripheral vein. Illumination is provided by introducing electromagnetic energy (for example, by providing optical communication with a source of electromagnetic energy) to the terminus of the optical device that lies outside of the vascular space, such that electromagnetic energy exits a terminus of the optical device that lies within the vascular space. In some embodiments of the inventive concept the optical device within the vascular space lies within an intravascular catheter or cannula, such that the optical device itself is not directly exposed to the intravascular space.
- It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refers to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C . . . and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.
Claims (21)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US16/371,299 US20200018914A1 (en) | 2013-07-03 | 2019-04-01 | Sheathed optical fiber |
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201361957465P | 2013-07-03 | 2013-07-03 | |
US201361957464P | 2013-07-03 | 2013-07-03 | |
US201361887670P | 2013-10-07 | 2013-10-07 | |
US14/323,180 US10261277B2 (en) | 2013-07-03 | 2014-07-03 | Sheathed optical fiber |
US16/371,299 US20200018914A1 (en) | 2013-07-03 | 2019-04-01 | Sheathed optical fiber |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/323,180 Continuation US10261277B2 (en) | 2013-07-03 | 2014-07-03 | Sheathed optical fiber |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20200018914A1 true US20200018914A1 (en) | 2020-01-16 |
Family
ID=52133262
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/323,180 Expired - Fee Related US10261277B2 (en) | 2013-07-03 | 2014-07-03 | Sheathed optical fiber |
US16/371,299 Abandoned US20200018914A1 (en) | 2013-07-03 | 2019-04-01 | Sheathed optical fiber |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/323,180 Expired - Fee Related US10261277B2 (en) | 2013-07-03 | 2014-07-03 | Sheathed optical fiber |
Country Status (7)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US10261277B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3017329A4 (en) |
AU (3) | AU2014285081A1 (en) |
MX (1) | MX2016000024A (en) |
PH (1) | PH12016500016A1 (en) |
SG (2) | SG10201902881WA (en) |
WO (1) | WO2015003151A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8292805B2 (en) * | 2009-11-10 | 2012-10-23 | Invuity, Inc. | Illuminated suction apparatus |
EP3685734B1 (en) * | 2014-05-22 | 2022-03-09 | Invuity, Inc. | Medical device featuring cladded waveguide |
CN105833430B (en) * | 2015-03-12 | 2018-01-12 | 武汉木兰金桥科技有限公司 | Brachytherapy device and its control system based on endoscopic images precision navigation |
WO2017136891A1 (en) * | 2016-02-10 | 2017-08-17 | Helium 3 Resources Pty Ltd | A therapeutic method and device therefor |
US11890427B2 (en) | 2017-01-03 | 2024-02-06 | St. Jude Medical, Cardiology Division, Inc. | Medical device with non-metallic reinforcing layer |
FR3085213B1 (en) * | 2018-08-24 | 2020-12-04 | Commissariat Energie Atomique | OPTICAL SYSTEM |
US11154722B1 (en) * | 2020-05-19 | 2021-10-26 | Biothread Llc | Light therapy wearable |
Family Cites Families (25)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4718417A (en) * | 1985-03-22 | 1988-01-12 | Massachusetts Institute Of Technology | Visible fluorescence spectral diagnostic for laser angiosurgery |
US4693556A (en) | 1985-06-04 | 1987-09-15 | Laser Therapeutics, Inc. | Apparatus for producing a spherical pattern of light and method of manufacture |
US5242437A (en) | 1988-06-10 | 1993-09-07 | Trimedyne Laser Systems, Inc. | Medical device applying localized high intensity light and heat, particularly for destruction of the endometrium |
US5053033A (en) | 1990-10-10 | 1991-10-01 | Boston Advanced Technologies, Inc. | Inhibition of restenosis by ultraviolet radiation |
US5505725A (en) | 1990-10-30 | 1996-04-09 | Cardiogenesis Corporation | Shapeable optical fiber apparatus |
GB9115888D0 (en) * | 1991-07-23 | 1991-09-04 | Bicc Plc | Electric & communications cables |
US5349590A (en) * | 1992-04-10 | 1994-09-20 | Premier Laser Systems, Inc. | Medical laser apparatus for delivering high power infrared light |
ATE182273T1 (en) * | 1992-08-18 | 1999-08-15 | Spectranetics Corp | GUIDE WIRE WITH FIBER OPTICS |
US5249590A (en) | 1992-08-18 | 1993-10-05 | General Electric Company | Article retaining mechanism |
US5637877A (en) | 1995-06-06 | 1997-06-10 | Rare Earth Medical, Inc. | Ultraviolet sterilization of instrument lumens |
WO1996029943A1 (en) * | 1995-03-28 | 1996-10-03 | Eli Lilly And Company | Photodynamic therapy system and method |
IL129958A (en) | 1996-11-22 | 2004-05-12 | Therakos Inc | Blood product irradiation device incorporating agitation |
FR2767703A1 (en) * | 1997-09-04 | 1999-03-05 | Medlight Sa | DEVICE FOR THE IRRADIATION OF INTERNAL CAVITIES OF THE ORGANISM |
US6312593B1 (en) | 1999-04-23 | 2001-11-06 | Thomas R. Petrie | Ultraviolet blood irradiation chamber |
US6440125B1 (en) | 2000-01-04 | 2002-08-27 | Peter Rentrop | Excimer laser catheter |
US20030127603A1 (en) | 2001-05-15 | 2003-07-10 | Bernard Horowitz | Apparatus for the inactivation of pathogens in protein-containing fluids and uses thereof |
US6908460B2 (en) | 2001-08-28 | 2005-06-21 | Joseph Distefano | Apparatus for conveying a light source to an intravenous needle to kill blood pathogens |
WO2003020103A2 (en) | 2001-09-04 | 2003-03-13 | Amit Technology Science & Medicine Ltd. | Method of and device for therapeutic illumination of internal organs and tissues |
US20030086817A1 (en) * | 2001-11-06 | 2003-05-08 | Horton Isaac B. | Blood purification system |
US20040186407A1 (en) | 2003-03-17 | 2004-09-23 | Kimberly Walker | Concentrator and filter apparatus for treatment of blood |
WO2006128047A2 (en) | 2005-05-27 | 2006-11-30 | Energex Systems, Inc. | Blood irradiation system device |
US8460229B2 (en) | 2007-08-17 | 2013-06-11 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Systems, devices, and methods including catheters having components that are actively controllable between transmissive and reflective states |
SK5457Y1 (en) | 2008-10-21 | 2010-06-07 | Yalong Trade S R O | Nasal applicator for intranasal laser irradiation of blood |
US8858880B2 (en) | 2011-02-12 | 2014-10-14 | Mark S. Smyczynski | Extracorporeal photodynamic blood illumination (irradiation) for the treatment of carbon monoxide poisoning |
JP5647942B2 (en) | 2011-04-27 | 2015-01-07 | 富士フイルム株式会社 | Photoacoustic imaging apparatus, probe unit used therefor, and endoscope |
-
2014
- 2014-07-03 AU AU2014285081A patent/AU2014285081A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2014-07-03 WO PCT/US2014/045449 patent/WO2015003151A1/en active Application Filing
- 2014-07-03 MX MX2016000024A patent/MX2016000024A/en unknown
- 2014-07-03 SG SG10201902881WA patent/SG10201902881WA/en unknown
- 2014-07-03 EP EP14819824.5A patent/EP3017329A4/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2014-07-03 US US14/323,180 patent/US10261277B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2014-07-03 SG SG11201600014UA patent/SG11201600014UA/en unknown
-
2016
- 2016-01-04 PH PH12016500016A patent/PH12016500016A1/en unknown
-
2017
- 2017-08-18 AU AU2017216559A patent/AU2017216559B2/en not_active Ceased
-
2019
- 2019-04-01 US US16/371,299 patent/US20200018914A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2019-05-02 AU AU2019203117A patent/AU2019203117A1/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
AU2017216559A1 (en) | 2017-09-07 |
US20150011837A1 (en) | 2015-01-08 |
PH12016500016B1 (en) | 2016-04-18 |
AU2017216559B2 (en) | 2019-02-28 |
PH12016500016A1 (en) | 2016-04-18 |
AU2014285081A1 (en) | 2016-02-25 |
EP3017329A1 (en) | 2016-05-11 |
EP3017329A4 (en) | 2017-02-22 |
WO2015003151A1 (en) | 2015-01-08 |
AU2019203117A1 (en) | 2019-05-23 |
MX2016000024A (en) | 2016-07-18 |
US10261277B2 (en) | 2019-04-16 |
SG11201600014UA (en) | 2016-02-26 |
SG10201902881WA (en) | 2019-05-30 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
AU2017216559B2 (en) | Sheathed optical fiber | |
US11696961B2 (en) | Apparatus for directing light through an inner lumen of a body | |
US10512788B2 (en) | Vascular access device with integrated light guide | |
CA3071998C (en) | Methods and apparatus to deliver therapeutic, non-ultra violet electromagnetic radiation to inactivate infectious agents | |
US10307612B2 (en) | Methods and apparatus to deliver therapeutic, non-ultraviolet electromagnetic radiation to inactivate infectious agents and/or to enhance healthy cell growth via a catheter residing in a body cavity | |
US6168591B1 (en) | Guide for penetrating phototherapy | |
US11229808B2 (en) | Methods and apparatus to deliver therapeutic, non-ultraviolet electromagnetic radiation versatilely via a catheter residing in a body cavity | |
EP3411117B1 (en) | Apparatus for removable catheter visual light therapeutic system | |
US10894173B2 (en) | Methods and apparatus to deliver therapeutic, non-ultraviolet electromagnetic radiation to inactivate infectious agents and/or to enhance healthy cell growth via a catheter residing in a body cavity | |
CA1274881A (en) | Laser catheter | |
US20230077399A1 (en) | Anti-microbial blue light systems and methods | |
JP2023118714A (en) | Methods and apparatuses for delivering therapeutic, non-ultraviolet electromagnetic radiation versatilely via catheter residing in body cavity |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: UVLRX THERAPEUTICS, INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:JOHNSON, SCOT;HARTER, MICHAEL;SIGNING DATES FROM 20170914 TO 20171020;REEL/FRAME:050507/0328 |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: DOCKETED NEW CASE - READY FOR EXAMINATION |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: PBMSG, LLC, FLORIDA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:PHOTONX HOLDINGS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:057271/0475 Effective date: 20210609 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: FINAL REJECTION MAILED |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |