Neodymium:YAG fiber delivery system for interstitial photothermal therapy

摘要

We describe here a highly durable 600 $mu optical fiber with a 20 mm frosted distal tip protected by a smooth transparent cover that is capable of remaining in contact with tissue for prolonged periods. When used with a Neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser, the active fiber surface diffuses optical radiation in a radial pattern, delivering up to 40 W power, and thus providing consistent and uniform interstitial photothermal therapy. Animal studies in the United States and clinical studies in Europe have demonstrated the feasibility of using these fibers to treat a variety of soft-tissue pathologies, including benign prostatic hyperplasia.