Optical analyzer assembly and method for intravascular lithotripsy device - Patents.com

Abstract

A catheter system (100) for treating a treatment site (106) within or adjacent to a blood vessel wall (108) or a heart valve includes an optical source (124), an inflatable balloon (104), an optical guide (122A), and an optical analyzer assembly (142). The optical source (124) generates optical energy. The inflatable balloon (104) is positionable substantially adjacent to the treatment site (106). The inflatable balloon (104) has a balloon wall (130) defining a balloon interior (146), which receives a balloon fluid (132). The optical guide (122A) receives optical energy from the optical source (124) at a guide proximal end (122P) and guides the optical energy in a first direction (121F) into the balloon interior (146) toward a guide distal end (122D). The optical analyzer assembly (142) is configured to optically analyze light energy emitted from the light guide (122A) in a second direction (121S) from the guide distal end (122D) toward the guide proximal end (122P) of the light guide (122A).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Related Applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 991,394, filed March 18, 2020, and U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 172,980, filed February 10, 2021. To the extent permitted, the contents of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 991,394 and U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 172,980 are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. [Background technology]

[0002] Vascular lesions in the body's blood vessels can be associated with an increased risk for major adverse events, such as myocardial infarction, embolism, deep vein thrombosis, and stroke. Severe vascular lesions can be difficult for physicians to treat and achieve patency in a clinical setting.

[0003] Vascular lesions may be treated using interventions such as, for example, medical therapy, balloon angioplasty, atherectomy, stent placement, vascular graft bypass, to name a few, but such interventions may not always be ideal or may require subsequent treatment to address the lesion. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] The present invention relates to a catheter system for treating a treatment site in or adjacent to a blood vessel wall or heart valve. In various embodiments, the catheter system includes an optical source, a balloon, an optical guide, and an optical analyzer assembly. The optical source generates optical energy. The balloon is positionable substantially adjacent to the treatment site. The balloon has a balloon wall defining a balloon interior, the balloon interior receiving a balloon fluid. The optical guide is configured to receive optical energy at a guide proximal end and is configured to guide the optical energy in a first direction from the guide proximal end to a guide distal end positioned within the balloon interior. The optical analyzer assembly is configured to optically analyze optical energy from the optical guide traveling in a second direction opposite the first direction.

[0005] In some embodiments, a balloon fluid is provided inside the balloon to cause the balloon to expand from the collapsed configuration to the expanded configuration.

[0006] Additionally, in certain embodiments, the light source generates pulses of light energy that are guided along the light guide into the balloon interior to induce plasma generation in the balloon fluid within the balloon interior. In some such embodiments, the catheter system further includes a plasma generator, the plasma generator positioned at the guide distal end of the light guide, the plasma generator configured to generate plasma in the balloon fluid within the balloon interior. Further, in such embodiments, the plasma generation can cause rapid bubble formation and impart a pressure wave on the balloon wall adjacent the vascular lesion.

[0007] In such embodiments, the optical analyzer assembly may be configured to optically detect whether plasma generation has occurred in the balloon fluid within the balloon interior. Additionally, the optical analyzer assembly may be further configured to optically detect whether a lack of plasma generation has occurred in the balloon fluid within the balloon interior. Furthermore, the optical analyzer assembly may also be configured to optically detect a failure of the light guide at any point along the length of the light guide from the guide proximal end to the guide distal end. In certain such embodiments, the optical analyzer assembly may also be configured to optically detect potential damage to the light guide at any point along the length of the light guide from the guide proximal end to the guide distal end. Moreover, in some such embodiments, the optical analyzer assembly is configured to automatically shut down operation of the catheter system when optically detecting potential damage to the light guide.

[0008] In some embodiments, the guide distal end includes a distal optical receiver that accepts optical energy passing through the light guide from the guide distal end to the guide proximal end as a return energy beam. In certain such embodiments, the optical energy accepted by the light guide from the guide distal end to the guide proximal end is emitted from a plasma generated in the balloon fluid within the balloon interior. Further, in some such embodiments, the optical energy accepted by the light guide from the guide distal end to the guide proximal end via the distal optical receiver is optically analyzed by the optical analyzer assembly.

[0009] In certain embodiments, the catheter system further includes a pulse generator coupled to the light source. The pulse generator is configured to trigger the light source to emit a pulse of light energy that is guided along the light guide from the guide proximal end to the guide distal end. In such embodiments, the pulse of light energy can excite a plasma generator positioned at the guide distal end of the light guide, the plasma generator configured to generate plasma in the balloon fluid within the balloon interior. Additionally, in certain such embodiments, the light energy is guided back through the light guide to the guide proximal end as a return energy beam. In such embodiments, the optical analyzer assembly is configured to optically analyze the return energy beam to determine whether plasma generation has occurred in the balloon fluid within the balloon interior.

[0010] In some embodiments, the optical analyzer assembly includes a beam splitter and a photodetector. The beam splitter is configured to receive the return energy beam and direct at least a portion of the return energy beam onto the photodetector. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the catheter system further includes an optical element positioned along the beam path between the beam splitter and the photodetector, the optical element configured to couple at least a portion of the return energy beam onto the photodetector. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the photodetector generates a signal based at least in part on the visible light included in at least a portion of the return energy beam. Additionally, the signal from the photodetector can be amplified by an amplifier to provide an amplified signal, which can be directed to the control electronics to determine the intensity of plasma generation in the balloon fluid within the balloon interior. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the amplified signal is gated using a discriminator circuit. In such embodiments, the control electronics compares the timing of the pulse of energy from the light source, as triggered by the pulse generator, to the timing of the amplified signal from the photodetector to determine when plasma generation has occurred in the balloon fluid within the balloon interior.

[0011] Additionally, in other embodiments, the catheter system further includes a second light source that generates light energy as an interrogation beam. In such embodiments, the light guide is configured to receive the interrogation beam from the second light source at the guide proximal end and guide the interrogation beam from the second light source toward the guide distal end. In some such embodiments, the catheter system further includes a pulse generator coupled to the second light source, the pulse generator configured to trigger the second light source to emit a pulse of light energy as the interrogation beam, the interrogation beam being guided along the light guide from the guide proximal end to the guide distal end. Additionally, in certain such embodiments, the second light source is a visible light source.

[0012] Moreover, in certain embodiments, the catheter system further includes a plasma generator positioned at the guide distal end of the optical guide. In such embodiments, the interrogation beam is one of scattered by the plasma generator and reflected by the plasma generator and directed along the optical guide from the guide distal end to the guide proximal end as a returned interrogation beam. In certain embodiments, the returned interrogation beam is optically analyzed by the optical analyzer assembly as it exits the guide proximal end of the optical guide. Additionally, in some embodiments, the optical analyzer assembly includes a beam splitter and a photodetector, the beam splitter configured to receive the returned interrogation beam and direct at least a portion of the returned interrogation beam onto the photodetector. Furthermore, in certain such embodiments, the photodetector generates a signal based at least in part on at least a portion of the returned interrogation beam. Additionally, the signal from the photodetector can be amplified by an amplifier to provide an amplified signal, and the amplified signal can be directed to the control electronics to determine when plasma generation has occurred within the balloon fluid within the balloon interior. Additionally, the amplified signal may be gated using a discriminator circuit. In such an embodiment, the control electronics can compare the timing of a pulse of light energy from the second light source, as triggered by the pulse generator, to the timing of the amplified signal from the photodetector to determine when plasma generation has occurred in the balloon fluid within the balloon interior.

[0013] In some embodiments, the light source comprises a laser.

[0014] Additionally, in certain embodiments, the light source includes an infrared laser that emits light energy in the form of pulses of infrared light.

[0015] Additionally, in some embodiments, the light guide comprises an optical fiber.

[0016] The present invention also relates to a method for treating a treatment site in or adjacent to a blood vessel wall or heart valve, in certain embodiments, the method includes the steps of: generating light energy with a light source; positioning a balloon substantially adjacent to the treatment site, the balloon having a balloon wall defining a balloon interior, the balloon interior receiving a balloon fluid; receiving light energy from the light source with a light guide at a guide proximal end; guiding light energy with the light guide in a first direction from the guide proximal end to a guide distal end positioned within the balloon interior; and optically analyzing the light energy from the light guide with an optical analyzer assembly, the analyzed light energy traveling in an opposite second direction opposite the first direction.

[0017] This Summary is an overview of some of the teachings of the present application and is not intended to be an exclusive or exhaustive treatment of the subject matter. Further details are found in the detailed description and the appended claims. Other aspects will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the following detailed description and viewing the drawings that form a part thereof, each of which should not be taken in a limiting sense. The scope herein is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

[0018] The novel features of the present invention, and the invention itself, both as to its structure and its operation, will best be understood from the accompanying drawings when taken in conjunction with the accompanying description, in which like reference characters refer to like parts, and in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a catheter system according to various embodiments herein, the catheter system including an optical analyzer assembly having features of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is a simplified diagram of a portion of an embodiment of a catheter system including an embodiment of an optical analyzer assembly. [Diagram 3] 1 is a simplified diagram of a portion of another embodiment of a catheter system including another embodiment of an optical analyzer assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] While embodiments of the present invention are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, details thereof have been shown by way of example and drawings and are described in detail herein. It is understood, however, that the scope of the present specification is not limited to the specific embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the spirit and scope of the present specification.

[0021] Treatment of vascular lesions (sometimes referred to herein as "treatment sites") can reduce major adverse events or deaths in affected subjects. As referred to herein, major adverse events can occur anywhere in the body due to the presence of vascular lesions. Major adverse events can include, but are not limited to, cardiac major adverse events, peripheral or central vascular major adverse events, brain major adverse events, musculoskeletal major adverse events, or any of the visceral major adverse events.

[0022] The catheter system and related methods disclosed herein are configured to monitor the performance, reliability and safety of intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) catheters. In various embodiments, the catheter system of the present invention utilizes an energy source (e.g., an optical source such as a laser source or another suitable energy source) that provides energy guided by an energy guide (e.g., an optical guide) to generate localized plasma in a balloon fluid within a balloon interior of an inflatable balloon of the catheter. As such, the energy guide may be referred to or may be said to incorporate a "plasma generator" at or near the guide distal end of the energy guide that is positioned within the balloon interior. This localized plasma induces pressure waves that exert pressure on a treatment site within or adjacent to a vascular wall within the patient's body, inducing spallation within the treatment site. As used herein, a treatment site may include vascular lesions (e.g., calcified vascular lesions or fibrous vascular lesions, etc.) typically found within blood vessels and / or heart valves.

[0023] Among other things, in various embodiments, the catheter system can include a catheter configured to be advanced to a treatment site in or adjacent to a blood vessel or heart valve in a patient's body. The catheter includes a catheter shaft and a balloon coupled and / or secured to the catheter shaft. The balloon herein can include a balloon wall defining a balloon interior and can be configured to receive balloon fluid within the balloon interior and expand from a folded configuration suitable for advancing the catheter through the patient's vasculature to an expanded configuration suitable for anchoring the catheter in an appropriate location relative to the treatment site. The catheter system also includes one or more energy guides (e.g., optical guides) disposed within the balloon along the catheter shaft. Each energy guide can be configured to generate pressure waves within the balloon to destroy vascular lesions. The catheter system utilizes energy from an energy source (e.g., optical energy from an optical source) to generate plasma (i.e., via a plasma generator) within the balloon fluid at or near a guide distal end of the energy guide disposed within the balloon positioned at the treatment site. The plasma formation can initiate one or more pressure waves, which can initiate the rapid formation of one or more bubbles, which can rapidly expand to a maximum size and then dissipate through a cavitation event that can emit a pressure wave as it collapses. The rapid expansion of the plasma-induced bubbles can generate one or more pressure waves in the balloon fluid held within the balloon, thereby imparting pressure waves to the treatment site. In some embodiments, the energy source can be configured to provide a sub-millisecond pulse of energy (e.g., light energy) from the energy source to initiate plasma formation in the balloon fluid within the balloon, causing rapid bubble formation and imparting pressure waves to the balloon wall at the treatment site.Thus, the pressure waves can transfer mechanical energy through the incompressible balloon fluid to the treatment site, exerting a disruptive force on the treatment site.

[0024] Importantly, as described in detail herein, the catheter system of the present invention includes an optical analyzer assembly configured to provide real-time continuous monitoring of the light emitted from the light guide into the balloon interior, which can be used to detect when a plasma event has occurred and can also be used as a monitor for the nominal operation of the catheter system. Additionally, the optical analyzer assembly can also be utilized to measure the intensity of the light energy emitted from the light guide to provide an accurate measurement of the energy output of a plasma generator incorporated as part of the light guide. More specifically, the measurement of the energy output of the plasma generator can be used in conjunction with a known energy input from an energy source to determine the conversion efficiency. Such metrics can also be used to assess the condition of the plasma generator and light guide and determine whether the catheter system is functioning properly and the number of operating cycles remaining.

[0025] More specifically, in various embodiments, as described in detail herein, the present invention includes a means for sampling light returned from the plasma generator and / or from inside the balloon through the light guide. It is recognized that light energy can travel in both directions (opposite directions) along the length of the light guide. Thus, light originating at the guide distal end of the light guide or at any other location along the length of the light guide can be detected at the guide proximal end of the light guide. Thus, such light energy transmitted back through the light guide can be separated and detected and / or analyzed via the optical analyzer assembly, effectively monitoring the performance, reliability, and safety of the catheter system, as described in detail herein.

[0026] As described in detail herein, it is recognized that through the use of the present invention, continuous monitoring of the light energy emitted from a plasma generator and measuring the intensity of the emitted light energy addresses several potential problems with the performance, reliability, and safety of IVL catheters, particularly those that utilize an energy source to generate a localized plasma, which creates a high energy gas bubble inside the balloon catheter. The specific problems that the present invention addresses include: 1) optical detection of successful firing of an energy source (e.g., a laser source) to generate a plasma within the balloon interior; 2) accurate determination of the energy output of the plasma generator; 3) optical detection of failure of the catheter system to generate a desired plasma within the balloon interior; and 4) optical detection of failure of the light guide at any point along the length of the light guide.

[0027] As used herein, the terms "intravascular lesion," "vascular lesion," and "treatment site" are used interchangeably unless otherwise noted. As such, an intravascular lesion and / or a vascular lesion may be referred to herein simply as a "lesion."

[0028] Those of ordinary skill in the art will realize that the following detailed description of the present invention is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other embodiments of the invention will readily suggest themselves to such skilled persons having the benefit of this disclosure.Reference will now be made in detail to implementations of the invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0029] For clarity, not all of the routine features of the implementations described herein are shown and described. Of course, it will be recognized that in the development of any such actual implementation, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the particular goals of the developer (e.g., compliance with application-related and business-related constraints, etc.), and that these particular goals will vary from implementation to implementation and from developer to developer. Moreover, it will be recognized that such a development effort may be complex and time-consuming, but will nevertheless be a routine undertaking of engineering for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0030] It is recognized that the catheter system disclosed herein can include many different configurations. Referring now to FIG. 1, a schematic cross-sectional view of a catheter system 100 according to various embodiments herein is shown. As described herein, the catheter system 100 is suitable for applying pressure to induce fracture in one or more vascular lesions in or adjacent to a vascular wall of a blood vessel or on or adjacent to a heart valve in a patient's body. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the catheter system 100 can include one or more of a catheter 102, a light guide bundle 122 including one or more light guides 122A, a source manifold 136, a fluid pump 138, a system console 123, a handle assembly 128, and an optical analyzer assembly 142, with the system console 123 including one or more of a light source 124, a power source 125, a system controller 126, and a graphic user interface 127 ("GUI").

[0031] The catheter 102 is configured to travel to a treatment site 106 within or adjacent to a blood vessel 108 in a body 107 of a patient 109. The treatment site 106 may include one or more vascular lesions (e.g., a calcified vascular lesion, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the treatment site 106 may include a vascular lesion (e.g., a fibrous vascular lesion, etc.).

[0032] The catheter 102 may include an inflatable balloon 104 (sometimes referred to herein simply as a "balloon"), a catheter shaft 110, and a guidewire 112. The balloon 104 may be coupled to the catheter shaft 110. The balloon 104 may include a balloon proximal end 104P and a balloon distal end 104D. The catheter shaft 110 may extend from a proximal portion 114 of the catheter system 100 to a distal portion 116 of the catheter system 100. The catheter shaft 110 may include a longitudinal axis 144. The catheter shaft 110 may also include a guidewire lumen 118, which is configured to travel over the guidewire 112. The catheter shaft 110 may further include an inflation lumen (not shown). In some embodiments, the catheter 102 can have a distal end opening 120 and can accommodate and track over the guidewire 112 as the catheter 102 is moved and positioned at or near the treatment site 106.

[0033] The catheter shaft 110 of the catheter 102 may be coupled to one or more light guides 122A of a light guide bundle 122 in optical communication with a light source 124. The light guides 122A may be disposed within the balloon 104 along the catheter shaft 110. In some embodiments, each light guide 122A may be an optical fiber and the light source 124 may be a laser. The light source 124 may be in optical communication with the light guides 122A at the proximal portion 114 of the catheter system 100.

[0034] In some embodiments, the catheter shaft 110 may be coupled to multiple light guides 122A (e.g., a first light guide, a second light guide, a third light guide, etc.), which may be disposed at any suitable locations about the guidewire lumen 118 and / or the catheter shaft 110. For example, in certain non-exclusive embodiments, two light guides 122A may be spaced approximately 180 degrees apart about the circumference of the guidewire lumen 118 and / or the catheter shaft 110; three light guides 122A may be spaced approximately 120 degrees apart about the circumference of the guidewire lumen 118 and / or the catheter shaft 110; or four light guides 122A may be spaced approximately 90 degrees apart about the circumference of the guidewire lumen 118 and / or the catheter shaft 110. Alternatively, the multiple light guides 122A need not be uniformly spaced apart from one another around the circumference of the guidewire lumen 118 and / or catheter shaft 110. More specifically, it is further recognized that the light guides 122A described herein may be uniformly or non-uniformly disposed around the guidewire lumen 118 and / or catheter shaft 110 to achieve a desired effect at a desired location.

[0035] The balloon 104 can include a balloon wall 130 that defines a balloon interior 146 and can be inflated with a balloon fluid 132 to expand from a folded configuration suitable for advancing the catheter 102 through the patient's vasculature to an expanded configuration suitable for anchoring the catheter 102 in an appropriate location relative to the treatment site 106. Stated another way, when the balloon 104 is in the expanded configuration, the balloon wall 130 of the balloon 104 is configured to be positioned substantially adjacent to the treatment site 106 (i.e., the vascular lesion). In some embodiments, the light source 124 of the catheter system 100 can be configured to provide sub-millisecond pulses of light from the light source 124 along the light guide 122A to a location within the balloon interior 146 of the balloon 104, thereby inducing plasma formation in the balloon fluid 132 within the balloon interior 146 of the balloon 104. The plasma formation causes rapid bubble formation and imparts a pressure wave above the treatment site 106. An exemplary plasma-induced bubble is shown in FIG.

[0036] Although the catheter system 100 illustrated herein is generally described as including a light source 124 and one or more light guides 122A, it will be appreciated that the catheter system 100 may alternatively include any suitable energy source and energy guides for purposes of generating the desired plasma in the balloon fluid 132 within the balloon interior 146.

[0037] Suitable balloons 104 for use in the catheter system 100 described in detail herein include those that can be passed through a patient's vasculature when in a collapsed configuration. In some embodiments, the balloons 104 herein are made from silicone. In other embodiments, the balloons 104 herein are made from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polyurethane, polymers (such as PEBAX™ material available from Arkema, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, USA), nylon, and the like. In some embodiments, the balloons 104 can include those having a diameter in the range of 1 millimeter (mm) to 25 mm. In some embodiments, the balloons 104 can include those having a diameter in the range of at least 1.5 mm to 12 mm. In some embodiments, the balloons 104 can include those having a diameter in the range of at least 1 mm to 5 mm.

[0038] Additionally, in some embodiments, the balloons 104 herein can include those having lengths ranging from at least 5 mm to 300 mm. More specifically, in some embodiments, the balloons 104 herein can include those having lengths ranging from at least 8 mm to 200 mm. It is recognized that a balloon 104 of greater length can be positioned adjacent a larger treatment site 106 and thus can be used to apply pressure on and induce fracture within a larger vascular lesion or multiple vascular lesions at a precise location within the treatment site 106.

[0039] Additionally, the balloon 104 herein may be inflated to an inflation pressure of approximately between 1 atmosphere (atm) and 70 atm. In some embodiments, the balloon 104 herein may be inflated to an inflation pressure of at least 20 atm and 70 atm. In other embodiments, the balloon 104 herein may be inflated to an inflation pressure of at least 6 atm and 20 atm. In yet other embodiments, the balloon 104 herein may be inflated to an inflation pressure of at least 3 atm and 20 atm. In yet other embodiments, the balloon 104 herein may be inflated to an inflation pressure of at least 2 atm and 10 atm.

[0040] Additionally, the balloon 104 herein may include a variety of shapes, including, but not limited to, a conical shape, a square shape, a rectangular shape, a spherical shape, a conical / square shape, a conical / spherical shape, an elongated spherical shape, an elliptical shape, a tapered shape, a bone shape, a stepped diameter shape, an offset shape, or a conical offset shape. In some embodiments, the balloon 104 herein may include a drug eluting coating or a drug eluting stent structure. The drug eluting coating or drug eluting stent may include one or more therapeutic agents, including anti-inflammatory agents, anti-tumor agents, and anti-angiogenic agents.

[0041] The balloon fluid 132 can be a liquid or a gas. Exemplary balloon fluids 132 suitable for use herein can include, but are not limited to, one or more of water, saline, contrast medium, fluorocarbon, perfluorocarbon, and gas (e.g., carbon dioxide, etc.). In some embodiments, the described balloon fluid 132 can be used as a base inflation fluid. In some embodiments, the balloon fluid 132 includes a mixture of saline and contrast medium in a 50:50 volume ratio. In other embodiments, the balloon fluid 132 includes a mixture of saline and contrast medium in a 25:75 volume ratio. In yet other embodiments, the balloon fluid 132 includes a mixture of saline and contrast medium in a 75:25 volume ratio. Additionally, the balloon fluid 132 suitable for use herein can be tailored based on composition, viscosity, etc., to manipulate the rate of travel of pressure waves therein. In certain embodiments, the balloon fluid 132 suitable for use herein is biocompatible. The volume of the balloon fluid 132 can be adjusted depending on the light source 124 selected and the type of balloon fluid 132 used.

[0042] In some embodiments, the contrast agents used in the contrast media herein may include, but are not limited to, iodine-based contrast agents (e.g., ionic or non-ionic iodine-based contrast agents, etc.). Some non-limiting examples of ionic iodine-based contrast agents include diatrizoate, metrizoate, iothalamate, and ioxaglate. Some non-limiting examples of non-ionic iodine-based contrast agents include iopamidol, iohexol, ioxilan, iopromide, iodixanol, and ioversol. In other embodiments, non-iodine-based contrast agents may be used. Suitable non-iodine-containing contrast agents may include gadolinium (III)-based contrast agents. Suitable fluorocarbon and perfluorocarbon agents may include, but are not limited to, agents such as perfluorocarbon dodecafluoropentane (DDFP, C5F12), etc.

[0043] Additionally, the balloon fluid 132 herein can include those that include absorbers that can selectively absorb light in the ultraviolet (e.g., at least 10 nanometers (nm) to 400 nm), visible (e.g., at least 400 nm to 780 nm), or near infrared (e.g., at least 780 nm to 2.5 μm) regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Suitable absorbers can include those that have an absorption maximum along a spectrum of at least 10 nm to 2.5 μm. Alternatively, the balloon fluid 132 can include those that include absorbers that can selectively absorb light in the mid-infrared (e.g., at least 2.5 μm to 15 μm) or far-infrared (e.g., at least 15 μm to 1 mm) regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. In various embodiments, the absorbers can be those that have an absorption maximum that is matched to the emission maximum of the laser used in the catheter system. As non-limiting examples, the various lasers described herein may include a neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG - emission maximum = 1064 nm) laser, a holmium:YAG (Ho:YAG - emission maximum = 2.1 μm) laser, or an erbium:YAG (Er:YAG - emission maximum = 2.94 μm) laser. In some embodiments, the absorbers used herein may be water soluble. In other embodiments, the absorbers used herein are not water soluble. In some embodiments, the absorbers used in the balloon fluid 132 herein may be tailored to match the peak emission of the light source 124. Various light sources 124 having emission wavelengths of at least 10 nanometers to 1 millimeter are discussed elsewhere herein.

[0044] It is recognized that the catheter system 100 and / or light guide bundle 122 disclosed herein can include any number of light guides 122A in optical communication with the light source 124 at the proximal portion 114 and in optical communication with the balloon fluid 132 in the balloon interior 146 of the balloon 104 at the distal portion 116. For example, in some embodiments, the catheter system 100 and / or light guide bundle 122 can include one light guide 122A to five light guides 122A. In other embodiments, the catheter system 100 and / or light guide bundle 122 can include five light guides 122A to fifteen light guides 122A. In yet other embodiments, the catheter system 100 and / or light guide bundle 122 can include ten light guides 122A to thirty light guides 122A. Alternatively, in yet other embodiments, the catheter system 100 and / or the light guide bundle 122 can include more than 30 light guides 122A.

[0045] The light guide 122A herein may include optical fibers or flexible light pipes. The light guide 122A herein may be thin and flexible, allowing optical signals to be transmitted with little loss of strength. The light guide 122A herein may include a core surrounded by a cladding around its periphery. In some embodiments, the core may be a cylindrical core or a partially cylindrical core. The core and cladding of the light guide 122A may be formed from one or more materials, including, but not limited to, one or more types of glass, silica, or one or more polymers. The light guide 122A may also include a protective coating (e.g., polymer, etc.). It is recognized that the refractive index of the core will be greater than the refractive index of the cladding.

[0046] Each light guide 122A can guide light along its length from a proximal portion (i.e., guide proximal end 122P) to a distal portion (i.e., guide distal end 122D), the distal portion having at least one optical window (not shown) positioned within the balloon interior 146. The light guides 122A can generate light paths as part of an optical network that includes the light source 124. Light paths within an optical network allow light to travel from one part of the network to another. Both optical fibers and flexible light pipes can provide light paths within the optical networks herein.

[0047] As provided herein, the guide distal end 122D can further include and / or incorporate a distal optical receiver 122R, which allows optical energy to be transferred into and through the light guide 122A from the guide distal end 122D to the guide proximal end 122P and back. In other words, the optical energy can travel along the light guide 122A in a first direction 121F, which is generally a direction from the guide proximal end 122P to the guide distal end 122D of the light guide 122A. Also, at least a portion of the optical energy can travel along the light guide 122A in a second direction 121S, which is substantially opposite to the first direction 121F, i.e., a direction from the guide distal end 122D to the guide proximal end 122P of the light guide 122A. Moreover, as described in more detail herein below, the light energy emitted from the guide proximal end 122P after being moved (in the second direction 121S) back through the light guide 122A can be separated and then optically detected, interrogated, and / or analyzed through the use of the optical analyzer assembly 142.

[0048] Additionally, the light guide 122A herein can take on many configurations around and / or relative to the catheter shaft 110 of the catheter 102 described herein. In some embodiments, the light guide 122A can run parallel to the longitudinal axis 144 of the catheter shaft 110. In some embodiments, the light guide 122A can be physically coupled to the catheter shaft 110. In other embodiments, the light guide 122A can be disposed along the length of the outer diameter of the catheter shaft 110. In yet other embodiments, the light guide 122A herein can be disposed within one or more light guide lumens in the catheter shaft 110.

[0049] Additionally, it is further recognized that the light guides 122A may be disposed at any suitable location around the circumference of the guidewire lumen 118 and / or catheter shaft 110, and that the guide distal ends 122D of each of the light guides 122A may be disposed at any suitable longitudinal location relative to the length of the balloon 104 and / or relative to the length of the guidewire lumen 118.

[0050] Further, the light guide 122A herein can include one or more optoacoustic transducers 154, where each optoacoustic transducer 154 can be in optical communication with the light guide 122A within which each optoacoustic transducer 154 is disposed. In some embodiments, the optoacoustic transducer 154 can be in optical communication with the guide distal end 122D of the light guide 122A. Additionally, in such embodiments, the optoacoustic transducer 154 can have a shape that corresponds to and / or matches the guide distal end 122D of the light guide 122A.

[0051] Optoacoustic transducer 154 is configured to convert light energy into acoustic waves at or near distal guide end 122D of light guide 122A. It is recognized that the direction of the acoustic waves may be adjusted by changing the angle of distal guide end 122D of light guide 122A.

[0052] It is further recognized that the optoacoustic transducer 154 disposed at the guide distal end 122D of the light guide 122A herein can have the same shape as the guide distal end 122D of the light guide 122A. For example, in certain non-exclusive embodiments, the optoacoustic transducer 154 and / or the guide distal end 122D can have a conical shape, a convex shape, a concave shape, a bulbous shape, a square shape, a stepped shape, a semicircular shape, an oval shape, and the like. It is also recognized that the light guide 122A can further include additional optoacoustic transducers 154 disposed along one or more side surfaces of the length of the light guide 122A.

[0053] The light guides 122A described herein may further include one or more turning features or "diverters" (not shown in FIG. 1) therein that are configured to direct light to exit the light guide 122A, for example, toward a side surface at or near the guide distal end 122D of the light guide 122A and toward the balloon wall 130. The turning features may include any feature of the systems herein that redirects light away from its axial path from the light guide 122A toward a side surface of the light guide 122A. Additionally, the light guides 122A may each include one or more optical windows disposed along a longitudinal or axial surface of the respective light guide 122A and in optical communication with the turning features. Stated another way, turning features herein can be configured to direct light within the light guide 122A toward a side surface, for example at or near the guide distal end 122D, where the side surface is in optical communication with an optical window. The optical window can include a portion of the light guide 122A that allows light to exit the light guide 122A from within the light guide 122A (such as, for example, a portion of the light guide 122A that lacks cladding material on or around the light guide 122A).

[0054] Examples of turning features suitable for use herein include reflective elements, refractive elements, and fiber diffusers. Additionally, turning features suitable for focusing light away from the tip of the light guide 122A herein may include, but should not be limited to, those with convex surfaces, gradient index (GRIN) lenses, and mirror focus lenses. Upon contact with the turning feature, the light is turned within the light guide 122A to the optoacoustic transducer 154, which is in optical communication with the side surface of the light guide 122A. As stated, the optoacoustic transducer 154 then converts the light energy into sound waves, which extend away from the side surface of the light guide 122A.

[0055] The source manifold 136 may be positioned at or near the proximal portion 114 of the catheter system 100. The source manifold 136 may include one or more proximal end openings that may receive the multiple light guides 122A of the light guide bundle 122, the guidewire 112, and / or the inflation conduit 140 that is coupled in fluid communication with a fluid pump 138. The catheter system 100 may also include a fluid pump 138 that is configured to inflate the balloon 104 with the balloon fluid 132 as needed.

[0056] As previously mentioned, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the system console 123 includes one or more of the light source 124, the power supply 125, the system controller 126, and the GUI 127. Alternatively, the system console 123 can include more or fewer components than those specifically illustrated in FIG. 1. For example, in certain non-exclusive alternative embodiments, the system console 123 can be designed without the GUI 127. Further alternatively, one or more of the light source 124, the power supply 125, the system controller 126, and the GUI 127 can be provided in the catheter system 100 without a specific need for a system console 123.

[0057] 1, in certain embodiments, at least a portion of the optical analyzer assembly 142 may also be positioned substantially within the system console 123. Alternatively, the components of the optical analyzer assembly 142 may be positioned in a manner different than what is specifically shown in FIG.

[0058] Additionally, as shown, the system console 123 and components included therein are operatively coupled to the catheter 102, the light guide bundle 122, and the remainder of the catheter system 100. For example, in some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the system console 123 can include a console connection aperture 148 (sometimes referred to generally as a "socket"), and the light guide bundle 122 is mechanically coupled to the system console 123 by the console connection aperture 148. In such embodiments, the light guide bundle 122 can include a guide coupling housing 150 (sometimes referred to generally as a "ferrule"), which houses a portion of each of the light guides 122A (e.g., the guide proximal end 122P). The guide coupling housing 150 is configured to fit into and be selectively retained within the console connection aperture 148 to provide a desired mechanical coupling between the light guide bundle 122 and the system console 123.

[0059] Additionally, the light guide bundle 122 may include a guide bundler 152 (or “shell”) that brings each of the individual light guides 122A closer together, allowing the light guides 122A and / or the light guide bundle 122 to assume a more compact configuration when extended into the blood vessel 108 with the catheter 102 during use of the catheter system 100.

[0060] As provided herein, the light source 124 may be selectively and / or alternatively coupled to each of the light guides 122A in the light guide bundle 122 in optical communication, i.e., to the guide proximal end 122P of each of the light guides 122A. In particular, the light source 124 is configured to generate light energy in the form of a source beam 124A (e.g., a pulsed source beam), which may be selectively and / or alternatively directed to and received by each of the light guides 122A in the light guide bundle 122 as individual guide beams 124B. Alternatively, the catheter system 100 may include two or more light sources 124. For example, in one non-exclusive alternative embodiment, the catheter system 100 may include a separate light source 124 for each of the light guides 122A in the light guide bundle 122.

[0061] The light source 124 can have any suitable design. In certain embodiments, as discussed above, the light source 124 can be configured to provide sub-millisecond pulses of light from the light source 124 that are focused onto a small spot and coupled into the guide proximal end 122P of the light guide 122A. Such pulses of light energy are then directed along the light guide 122A to a location within the balloon 104, thereby inducing plasma formation within the balloon fluid 132 within the balloon interior 146 of the balloon 104. In particular, the light energy emitted at the guide distal end 122D of the light guide 122A excites a plasma generator, forming plasma within the balloon fluid 132 within the balloon interior 146. The plasma formation causes rapid bubble formation and imparts a pressure wave above the treatment site 106. In such embodiments, the sub-millisecond pulses of light from the light source 124 can be delivered to the treatment site 106 at frequencies between approximately 1 Hertz (Hz) and 5000 Hz. In some embodiments, the sub-millisecond pulses of light from the light source 124 may be delivered to the treatment site 106 at a frequency between approximately 30 Hz and 1000 Hz. In other embodiments, the sub-millisecond pulses of light from the light source 124 may be delivered to the treatment site 106 at a frequency between approximately 10 Hz and 100 Hz. In yet other embodiments, the sub-millisecond pulses of light from the light source 124 may be delivered to the treatment site 106 at a frequency between approximately 1 Hz and 30 Hz. Alternatively, the sub-millisecond pulses of light may be delivered to the treatment site 106 at a frequency that may be greater than 5000 Hz.

[0062] It will be appreciated that although the optical source 124 is typically utilized to provide pulses of optical energy, the optical source 124 may still be described as providing a single source beam 124A (i.e., a single pulsed source beam).

[0063] Light sources 124 suitable for use herein can include various types of light sources, including lasers and lamps. For example, in certain non-exclusive embodiments, light source 124 can be an infrared laser that emits light energy in the form of pulses of infrared light. Alternatively, as previously mentioned, light source 124 can include any suitable type of energy source, as referred to herein.

[0064] Suitable lasers can include short pulse lasers on the sub-millisecond timescale. In some embodiments, the light source 124 can include lasers on the nanosecond (ns) timescale. Lasers can also include short pulse lasers on the picosecond (ps), femtosecond (fs), and microsecond (us) timescales. It is recognized that there are many combinations of laser wavelengths, pulse widths, and energy levels that can be used to achieve plasma in the balloon fluid 132 of the catheter 102 described herein. In various embodiments, the pulse width can include at least in the range of 10 ns to 200 ns inclusive. In some embodiments, the pulse width can include at least in the range of 20 ns to 100 ns inclusive. In other embodiments, the pulse width can include at least in the range of 1 ns to 500 ns inclusive.

[0065] Additionally, exemplary nanosecond lasers can include those in the UV to IR spectrum, spanning wavelengths of approximately 10 nanometers (nm) to 1 millimeter (mm). In some embodiments, the light source 124 suitable for use in the catheter system 100 herein can include those capable of producing light at wavelengths of at least 750 nm to 2000 nm. In other embodiments, the light source 124 can include those capable of producing light at wavelengths of at least 700 nm to 3000 nm. In yet other embodiments, the light source 124 can include those capable of producing light at wavelengths of at least 100 nm to 10 micrometers (μm). The nanosecond laser can include those having a repetition rate of up to 200 kHz. In some embodiments, the laser can include a Q-switched Thulium:Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet (Tm:YAG) laser. In other embodiments, the lasers may include neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) lasers, holmium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Ho:YAG) lasers, erbium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Er:YAG) lasers, excimer lasers, helium-neon lasers, carbon dioxide lasers, and doped pulsed fiber lasers.

[0066] The catheter system 100 disclosed herein is capable of generating pressure waves having a maximum pressure in the range of at least 1 megapascal (MPa) to 100 MPa. The maximum pressure generated by a particular catheter system 100 will depend on the light source 124, the absorbent material, the expansion of the bubble, the propagation medium, the balloon material, and other factors. In some embodiments, the catheter system 100 disclosed herein is capable of generating pressure waves having a maximum pressure in the range of at least 2 MPa to 50 MPa. In other embodiments, the catheter system 100 disclosed herein is capable of generating pressure waves having a maximum pressure in the range of at least 2 MPa to 30 MPa. In yet other embodiments, the catheter system 100 disclosed herein is capable of generating pressure waves having a maximum pressure in the range of at least 15 MPa to 25 MPa.

[0067] The pressure waves described herein may be applied above the treatment site 106 from a distance in the range of at least 0.1 millimeters (mm) to 25 mm extending radially from the light guide 122A when the catheter 102 is placed at the treatment site 106. In some embodiments, the pressure waves may be applied above the treatment site 106 from a distance in the range of at least 10 mm to 20 mm extending radially from the light guide 122A when the catheter 102 is placed at the treatment site 106. In other embodiments, the pressure waves may be applied above the treatment site 106 from a distance in the range of at least 1 mm to 10 mm extending radially from the light guide 122A when the catheter 102 is placed at the treatment site 106. In yet other embodiments, the pressure waves may be applied above the treatment site 106 from a distance in the range of at least 1.5 mm to 4 mm extending radially from the light guide 122A when the catheter 102 is placed at the treatment site 106. In some embodiments, pressure waves may be applied above the treatment site 106 from a range of at least 2 MPa to 30 MPa at a distance of 0.1 mm to 10 mm. In some embodiments, pressure waves may be applied above the treatment site 106 from a range of at least 2 MPa to 25 MPa at a distance of 0.1 mm to 10 mm.

[0068] The power supply 125 is electrically coupled to each of the light source 124, the system controller 126, the GUI 127, the handle assembly 128, and the optical analyzer assembly 142 and is configured to provide the necessary power. The power supply 125 may have any suitable design for such purpose.

[0069] As stated, the system controller 126 is electrically coupled to and receives power from the power supply 125. Additionally, the system controller 126 is coupled to each of the light source 124, the GUI 127, and the optical analyzer assembly 142 and configured to control the operation thereof. The system controller 126 can include one or more processors or circuitry for the purpose of controlling the operation of at least the light source 124, the GUI 127, and the optical analyzer assembly 142. For example, the system controller 126 can control the light source 124 to generate pulses of light energy as desired, for example, at any desired firing rate. Additionally, the system controller 126 can control and / or operate in conjunction with the optical analyzer assembly 142 to effectively provide real-time continuous monitoring of the performance, reliability, and safety of the catheter system 100.

[0070] Additionally, the system controller 126 may be further configured to control the operation of other components of the catheter system 100 (e.g., positioning the catheter 102 adjacent to the treatment site 106, inflation of the balloon 104 in the balloon fluid 132, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the catheter system 100 can include one or more additional controllers, which may be positioned in any suitable manner for purposes of controlling various operations of the catheter system 100. For example, in certain embodiments, the additional controllers and / or portions of the system controller 126 may be positioned and / or incorporated within the handle assembly 128.

[0071] The GUI 127 is accessible by a user or operator of the catheter system 100. Additionally, the GUI 127 is electrically connected to the system controller 126. With such a design, the GUI 127 can be used by the user or operator to ensure that the catheter system 100 is used as desired to apply pressure onto and induce fracturing into the vascular lesion at the treatment site 106. Additionally, the GUI 127 can provide information to the user or operator that can be used before, during, and after use of the catheter system 100. In one embodiment, the GUI 127 can provide static visual data and / or information to the user or operator. Additionally or alternatively, the GUI 127 can provide dynamic visual data and / or information to the user or operator (e.g., video data or any other data that changes over time during use of the catheter system 100). Furthermore, in various embodiments, the GUI 127 can include one or more colors, different sizes, varying brightness, etc., which can act as a warning to the user or operator. Additionally or alternatively, the GUI 127 may provide audio data or information to the user or operator. It is recognized that the specifications of the GUI 127 may vary depending on the design requirements of the catheter system 100 or the particular needs, specifications, and / or desires of the user or operator.

[0072] 1, the handle assembly 128 may be positioned at or near the proximal portion 114 of the catheter system 100 and / or near the source manifold 136. Additionally, in this embodiment, the handle assembly 128 is coupled to and positioned spaced apart from the balloon 104. Alternatively, the handle assembly 128 may be positioned in another suitable location.

[0073] The handle assembly 128 is handled and used by a user or operator to operate, position, and control the catheter 102. The design and specific features of the handle assembly 128 can be varied to suit the design requirements of the catheter system 100. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the handle assembly 128 is separate from, but in electrical and / or fluid communication with, one or more of the system controller 126, the light source 124, the fluid pump 138, the GUI 127, and the optical analyzer assembly 142. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 128 can integrate and / or include at least a portion of the system controller 126 within the handle assembly 128. For example, as shown, in certain such embodiments, the handle assembly 128 can include a circuit 156, which can form at least a portion of the system controller 126. Additionally, in some embodiments, the circuitry 156 can receive electrical signals or data from the optical analyzer assembly 142. Additionally or alternatively, the circuitry 156 can transmit such electrical signals or otherwise provide data to the system controller 126.

[0074] In one embodiment, the circuitry 156 may include one or more integrated circuits or a printed circuit board having any other suitable circuitry. In alternative embodiments, the circuitry 156 may be omitted or may be included in the system controller 126, which in various embodiments may be located outside the handle assembly 128 (e.g., in the system console 123). It is understood that the handle assembly 128 may include fewer or additional components than those specifically illustrated and described herein.

[0075] As an overview and as provided in more detail herein, the optical analyzer assembly 142 is configured to effectively monitor the performance, reliability, and safety of the catheter system 100. During use of the catheter system 100, when plasma first forms in the balloon fluid 132 within the balloon interior, the plasma emits broad spectrum electromagnetic radiation. Additionally, as described above, at least a portion of the emitted light energy can be reflected from or otherwise received by the distal light receiver 122R near the guide distal end 122D of the light guide 122A. Thus, such portion of the light energy can travel back through the light guide 122A in the second direction 121S to the guide proximal end 122P, where it can be separated and detected. The intensity and timing of the visible light pulse relative to the plasma generating pulse from the light source 124 provides an indication that the plasma generator has functioned, its energy output, and its functional condition. It is recognized that if light guide 122A is damaged or destroyed, visible light flashes may occur at other locations along the length of light guide 122A, and such additional light flashes will be coupled into light guide 122A and carried back in the second direction 121S to guide proximal end 122P. The intensity and timing of these additional light pulses can be indicative of a damaged light guide 122A or plasma generator.

[0076] It is recognized that failure of the energy-driven plasma generator or associated light guide 122A (e.g., if the light guide 122A breaks or is damaged during use of the catheter system 100) may lead to injury to the patient or operator resulting from leaked energy. Potential injury includes tissue burns and retinal damage. As previously mentioned, in some embodiments, the energy source 124 is a laser that emits invisible infrared light, precluding visual detection by the operator. Thus, if the optical analyzer assembly 142 indicates that any such failure has occurred, the treatment and energy delivery (e.g., laser energy delivery) must be immediately stopped to mitigate the associated risks to the patient and operator. Stated another way, with the design of the optical analyzer assembly 142 described herein, the present invention detects any of the above-mentioned failures in the catheter system 100 (e.g., breakage (damage) of the plasma generator to the light guide 122A and / or failure of the light guide 122A and / or the plasma generator) and provides an indicator or signal that the system controller 126 can use to lock out the energy source 124. This provides a necessary safety interlock against a potentially dangerous condition in which the energy source 124 may leak in an undesirable manner. Moreover, the system controller 126 can be used to instruct the surgeon (e.g., via the GUI 127) to stop the procedure and remove the catheter 102 from the patient 109 being treated.

[0077] Additionally, it is further recognized that the optical analyzer assembly 142 can have any suitable design for purposes of effectively monitoring the performance, reliability, and safety of the catheter system 100. Specific, non-exclusive examples of potential designs for the optical analyzer assembly 142 are described in detail herein below.

[0078] 2 is a simplified diagram of a portion of an embodiment of a catheter system 200 including an embodiment of an optical analyzer assembly 242. The design of the catheter system 200 is substantially similar to the embodiments shown and described herein above. It is recognized that various components of the catheter system 200 (such as those shown in FIG. 1) are not shown in FIG. 2 for purposes of clarity and ease of illustration. However, it is recognized that the catheter system 200 will likely include most (if not all) of such components.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 2, the catheter system 200 again includes an energy source 224 configured to generate light energy in the form of a source beam 224A (e.g., a pulsed source beam) that can be selectively and / or alternatively directed to and received by each light guide 222A (only one light guide is shown in FIG. 2) as an individual guide beam 224B. In one non-exclusive embodiment, the energy source 224 is an infrared laser source and the light guide 222A is a small diameter multimode optical fiber. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, a pulse generator 260 is coupled to the energy source 224. The pulse generator 260 is configured to trigger the energy source 224, which thus emits an energy pulse as the source beam 224A. In certain embodiments, source beam 224A from energy source 224 passes through optical element 262 (e.g., a focusing lens) that is configured to focus source beam 224A as individual guide beams 224B onto proximal guide end 222P of light guide 222A, thereby coupling pulses of infrared energy (i.e., individual guide beams 224B) into light guide 222A.

[0080] The pulse of infrared energy (i.e., individual guide beams 224B) then travels along and / or through light guide 222A and excites plasma generator 264, which is positioned at or near and / or incorporated into distal guide end 222D of light guide 222A. Plasma generator 264 utilizes the pulse of infrared energy to generate a localized plasma in balloon fluid 132 (shown in FIG. 1) within balloon interior 146 (shown in FIG. 1) of balloon 104 (shown in FIG. 1).

[0081] In various embodiments, upon generating a plasma in the balloon fluid 132 within the balloon interior 146, a pulse of broad-spectrum light energy emitted from the plasma is coupled back into the distal guide end 222D of the light guide 222A. Such pulse of broad-spectrum light energy then travels back along and / or through the light guide 222A where it is emitted from the proximal guide end 222P of the light guide 222A (i.e., as a return energy beam 224C).

[0082] As described in detail herein, the optical analyzer assembly 242 is configured to effectively monitor the performance, reliability, and safety of the catheter system 200 by optically analyzing the optical energy (e.g., return energy beam 224C) emitted from the guide proximal end 222P of the light guide 222A. The design of the optical analyzer assembly 242 may be varied to suit the particular requirements of the catheter system 200. In particular, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the optical analyzer assembly 242 includes one or more of a beam splitter 266, an optical element 268 (e.g., a coupling lens), a photodetector 270, and a signal conditioning and processing system 272. Additionally, as shown, the signal conditioning and processing system 272 may include one or more of an amplifier 274, a discriminator 276, and control electronics 278, which may include one or more processors or circuits. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the optical analyzer assembly 242 and / or the signal conditioning and processing system 272 may include more or fewer components than specifically shown and described herein.

[0083] As shown, a beam splitter 266 (e.g., a dichroic beam splitter) is positioned in the optical path of the energy source 224 and the guide proximal end 222P of the light guide 222A. In certain embodiments, the beam splitter 266 is configured to pass light for wavelengths longer than those visible to the photodetector 270. This may be referred to as a cutoff wavelength. The beam splitter 266 is further configured to reflect all light having a wavelength shorter than the cutoff wavelength. As shown in FIG. 2, the return energy beam 224C emitted from the guide proximal end 222P of the light guide 222A is reflected from the beam splitter 266 and coupled into the photodetector 270 using optical element 268. More specifically, optical element 268 (e.g., a coupling lens) is positioned in the optical path of returning energy beam 224C between beam splitter 266 and photodetector 270 after returning energy beam 224C is reflected from beam splitter 266. Optical element 268 effectively images guide proximal end 222P of light guide onto photodetector 270, thereby coupling optical energy emitted from guide proximal end 222P of light guide 222A (i.e., in the form of returning energy beam 224C) onto photodetector 270. With such a design, visible light emitted from a plasma formed at guide distal end 222D of light guide 222A is collected by photodetector 270.

[0084] Additionally, in some embodiments, the photodetector 270 generates a signal, which is based on visible light emitted from the plasma formed at the guide distal end 222D of the light guide 222A, collected by the photodetector 270. As shown in FIG. 2, the signal from the photodetector 270 is then directed to a signal conditioning and processing system 272, where detection and intensity assessment of the plasma event is determined. Notably, in certain embodiments, the signal from the photodetector 270 is directed to an amplifier 274, where the signal from the photodetector 270 is amplified. The amplified signal is then utilized (e.g., in the control electronics 278) to determine the intensity of the plasma event that occurred within the balloon fluid 132 within the balloon interior 146.

[0085] Further, in certain embodiments, the pulse from the amplified photodetector signal is gated using a discriminator 276 (e.g., a discriminator circuit), which is triggered by a pulse from the pulse generator 260. This information can then be used (e.g., in the control electronics 278) to determine when a plasma event occurred within the balloon fluid 132 in the balloon interior 146. More specifically, the control electronics 278 can compare the timing of the original pulse of energy from the energy source 224 (as triggered by the pulse generator 260) with the timing of the amplified photodetector signal (as gated using the discriminator 276) to determine when a plasma event occurred within the balloon fluid 132 in the balloon interior 146.

[0086] In some embodiments, the control electronics 278 of the signal conditioning and processing system 272 may be included as part of the system controller 126 (shown in FIG. 1 ). Alternatively, the control electronics 278 of the signal conditioning and processing system 272 may be provided separate from the system controller 126 and in electrical communication with the system controller 126.

[0087] It is recognized that there are numerous other configurations for the photodetector 270 and signal conditioning and processing system 272 required to detect and analyze the light pulses returning from the light guide 222A (i.e., the return energy beam 224C). For example, in another embodiment, the photodetector 270 can be a spectrometer that provides intensity and wavelength information about the return energy beam 224C. In such an embodiment, this information can be used to generate a spectral signature to further identify specific conditions or events within the light guide 222A and / or the plasma generator 264. More specifically, small amounts of material that make up the plasma generator 264 will be vaporized during its normal operation. These will create spectral lines, which will be distinct. It is further recognized that this approach can be further used to distinguish between a functioning plasma generator 264 and a broken or damaged light guide 222A.

[0088] As described in detail herein, the primary mechanism for the present invention is the direct detection of a light pulse generated by a plasma event in the balloon fluid 132 in the balloon interior 146. A signal conditioning and processing system 278 can be utilized to indicate the intensity of the light pulse, its spectrum, and when it occurs relative to the input pulse from the energy source 224. This can be interpreted as follows. 1) The light pulse must occur after a time interval determined by the length of the light guide 222A and the duration of the input energy pulse from the energy source 224. If the detected light pulse has the correct intensity and occurs within a particular time window, it is an indication that the plasma generator 264 has functioned properly. 2) If no light pulse is detected, it is an indication of device failure. 3) If a smaller light pulse is detected that occurs too early relative to the energy pulse from energy source 224, this is an indication of a failure of light guide 222A. 4) If the light pulse is detected as having a different spectrum or as lacking a spectral line or signature, this can be used to indicate a device failure.

[0089] 3 is a simplified diagram of a portion of another embodiment of a catheter system 300 including another embodiment of an optical analyzer assembly 342. The design of the catheter system 300 is substantially similar to the embodiment shown and described herein above. It is recognized that various components of the catheter system 300 (such as those shown in FIG. 1 ) are not shown in FIG. 3 for purposes of clarity and ease of illustration. However, it is recognized that the catheter system 300 will likely include most, if not all, such components.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 3, the catheter system 300 again includes an energy source 324 configured to generate light energy in the form of a source beam 324A (e.g., a pulsed source beam) that can be selectively and / or alternatively directed to and received by each light guide 322A (only one light guide is shown in FIG. 3) as an individual guide beam 324B. In one non-exclusive embodiment, the energy source 324 is an infrared laser source, and the light guide 322A is a small diameter multimode optical fiber. In certain embodiments, the energy source 324 again can be configured to provide sub-millisecond pulses of energy as the source beam 324A, which are then focused, for example, by the optical element 362 onto a small spot and coupled into the guide proximal end 322P of the light guide 322A as an individual guide beam 324B.

[0091] Each guide beam 324B then travels along and / or through light guide 322A and excites a plasma generator 364, which is positioned at or near and / or incorporated into distal guide end 322D of light guide 322A. Plasma generator 364 utilizes pulses of infrared energy to generate a localized plasma in balloon fluid 132 (shown in FIG. 1) within balloon interior 146 (shown in FIG. 1) of balloon 104 (shown in FIG. 1).

[0092] As described in detail herein, the optical analyzer assembly 342 is configured to effectively monitor the performance, reliability, and safety of the catheter system 300 (e.g., the light guide 322A and the plasma generator 364) through optical analysis of the light energy emitted from the guide proximal end 322P of the light guide 322A. However, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the optical analyzer assembly 342 has a different design than in the previous embodiment. More specifically, in this embodiment, rather than detecting and analyzing the light pulses emitted from the plasma or broken section of the light guide as the return energy beam 224C (illustrated in FIG. 2), a separate second energy source 380 (e.g., a second light source) is used to interrogate the light guide 322A. This approach has similarities to Optical Time Domain Reflectometry (OTDR), which is used to detect faults in long optical fiber transmission lines.

[0093] 3, the optical analyzer assembly 342 includes one or more of a second energy source 380, a pulse generator 382, ​​a beam splitter 366, an optical element 368 (e.g., a coupling lens), a second beam splitter 384, a photodetector 370, and a signal conditioning and processing system 372. Additionally, as shown, the signal conditioning and processing system 372 can include one or more of an amplifier 374, a discriminator 376, and control electronics 378, which can include one or more processors or circuits. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the optical analyzer assembly 342 and / or the signal conditioning and processing system 372 can include more or fewer components than specifically shown and described herein.

[0094] As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, a pulse generator 382 is coupled to the second energy source 380 and configured to trigger the second energy source 380 so that it emits an energy pulse as an interrogation beam 380A. In one non-exclusive embodiment, the second energy source 380 is a high-intensity visible wavelength laser and the pulse generator 382 is used to generate short, high-intensity pulses from the second energy source 380. The interrogation beam 380A is first directed toward a second beam splitter 384, which may be used to generate a separate source and return path for the second energy source 380 as described herein. In one embodiment, the second beam splitter 384 is a regular beam splitter with a high reflection-to-transmission ratio. This allows a small but sufficient amount of light energy to be coupled into the light guide 322A.

[0095] Additionally, in certain embodiments, the interrogation beam 380A from the second energy source 380 then passes through the optical element 368 and is redirected by the beam splitter 366 (e.g., a dichroic beam splitter) onto the guide proximal end 322P of the light guide 322A. The interrogation beam 380A then travels along and / or through the length of the light guide 322A. The interrogation beam 380A is scattered or reflected by the plasma generator 364 at or near the guide distal end 322D of the light guide 322A and returns to the guide proximal end 322P. The same optical path is then used to collect and detect the returned light pulse (i.e., the returned interrogation beam 380B).

[0096] As shown in FIG. 3, the returned interrogation beam 380B is optically analyzed using the optical analyzer assembly 342. More specifically, as shown, the beam splitter 366 and optical element 368 are used to separate the optical energy returning through the light guide 322A (i.e., the returned interrogation beam 380B), which again will be emitted from the guide proximal end 322P of the light guide 322A. The returned interrogation beam 380B is then directed towards the second beam splitter 384. As previously mentioned, the second beam splitter 384 can have a high reflection to transmission ratio, which allows for the collection and detection of a weak reflected pulse from the light guide 322A in the form of the returned interrogation beam 380B. Thus, the portion of the returned interrogation beam 380B that is reflected by the second beam splitter 384 can be collected and coupled into the photodetector 370. With such a design, the optical element 368 effectively images the guide proximal end 322P of the light guide onto the light detector 370, thereby coupling the optical energy emitted from the guide proximal end 322P of the light guide 322A (i.e., in the form of the returned interrogation beam 380B) onto the light detector 370.

[0097] Additionally, in some embodiments, the photodetector 370 generates a signal, which is based on the portion of the returned interrogation beam 380B collected by the photodetector 370. As shown in FIG. 3, the signal from the photodetector 370 is then directed to a signal conditioning and processing system 372, where detection of a plasma event is determined. In certain embodiments, the signal from the photodetector 370 is directed to an amplifier 374, where the signal from the photodetector 370 is amplified. Further, in some embodiments, a pulse from the amplified photodetector signal is gated using a discriminator 276 (e.g., a discriminator circuit), which is triggered by a pulse from a pulse generator 382. This information can then be used (e.g., in the control electronics 378) to determine when and if a plasma event occurred within the balloon fluid 132 in the balloon interior 146. More specifically, the control electronics 378 can compare the timing of the original pulse of energy from the second energy source 380 (as triggered by the pulse generator 382) with the timing of the amplified photodetector signal (as gated using the discriminator 376) to indicate where along the light guide 322A the interrogation pulse was returned (i.e., as a returned interrogation beam 380B). This can be conditioned to determine if the returned interrogation beam 380B is from the plasma generator 364, which would be the maximum time difference between the trigger pulse and the return pulse. Conversely, a shorter time interval between the trigger pulse and the return pulse would indicate that the return was closer to the guide proximal end 322P of the light guide 322A, which would indicate a failure or breakage of the light guide.

[0098] In some embodiments, the control electronics 378 of the signal conditioning and processing system 372 may be included as part of the system controller 126 (shown in FIG. 1 ). Alternatively, the control electronics 378 of the signal conditioning and processing system 372 may be provided separate from the system controller 126 and in electrical communication with the system controller 126.

[0099] As discussed above, the optical analyzer assembly of the present invention addresses several potential problems with the performance, reliability, and safety of IVL catheters, particularly those that utilize an energy source (e.g., an optical source such as a laser source) to generate a localized plasma (which induces high energy bubbles in the balloon fluid within the balloon interior of the balloon). For example, as discussed above, problems addressed by the present invention include, but are not limited to, (1) optical detection of successful firing of an energy source and / or plasma generator to generate plasma within the balloon interior, (2) accurate determination of the energy output of the plasma generator, (3) optical detection of failure of the catheter system (e.g., plasma generator) to generate a desired plasma within the balloon interior, and (4) optical detection of failure of the light guide within the plasma generator, within the balloon, or along any section of the catheter shaft.

[0100] It should be noted that as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the content and / or context clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term "or" is generally used in its sense including "and / or" unless the content or context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0101] It should also be noted that, as used herein and in the appended claims, the phrase "configured to" describes a system, apparatus, or other structure that is constructed or configured to perform a particular task or adopt a particular configuration. The phrase "configured to" may be used interchangeably with other similar phrases, such as "arranged and configured," "constructed and arranged," "constructed," "manufactured," and "disposed," etc.

[0102] The headings used herein are provided for consistency with suggestions under 37 CFR 1.77 or to otherwise provide an organizational cue. These headings should not be viewed as limiting or characterizing the invention as set forth in any claim that may result from this disclosure. By way of example, a description of a technology in the "Background" is not an admission that the technology is prior art to any invention in this disclosure. Neither the "Summary" nor the "Abstract" should be considered as a characterization of the invention as set forth in the issued claims.

[0103] The embodiments described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the detailed description provided herein. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that those skilled in the art can appreciate and understand the principles and practices. As such, aspects have been described with reference to various specific and preferred embodiments and techniques. However, it should be understood that many variations and modifications may be made while remaining within the spirit and scope of the present specification.

[0104] Although several different embodiments of the catheter system have been illustrated and described herein, it will be understood that one or more features of any one embodiment may be combined with one or more features of one or more of the other embodiments, provided that such combination meets the intent of the present invention.

[0105] While several exemplary aspects and embodiments of the catheter system have been discussed above, those skilled in the art will recognize certain modifications, permutations, additions, and subcombinations thereof, and it is therefore intended that the following appended claims and any claims hereafter introduced be construed to include all such modifications, permutations, additions, and subcombinations as fall within their true spirit and scope, and no limitations to the details of construction or design shown herein are intended.

Claims

1. 1. A catheter system for treating a treatment site in or adjacent to a blood vessel wall or a heart valve, the catheter system comprising: A light source generating light energy; a balloon positionable substantially adjacent the treatment site, the balloon having a balloon wall defining a balloon interior, the balloon interior receiving a balloon fluid; a light guide configured to receive the light energy from the light source at a guide proximal end and configured to guide the light energy in a first direction from the guide proximal end to a guide distal end positioned within an interior of the balloon such that the light energy from the light source travels through the light guide, the light energy traveling through the light guide in the first direction is configured to generate a plasma in the balloon fluid within the interior of the balloon, the guide distal end of the light guide being in fluid communication with the balloon fluid configured to generate the plasma, the plasma generated in the balloon fluid within the balloon emits a pulse of light energy as a return energy beam incorporating a portion of the light energy from the light source guided by the light guide in the first direction, and the light guide configured to further guide the return energy beam back through the light guide from the guide distal end to the guide proximal end in a second direction opposite the first direction; an optical analyzer assembly configured to optically analyze the return energy beam emitted from the guide proximal end of the light guide that is moved back through the light guide in the second direction; and A catheter system comprising:

2. 10. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein the balloon fluid is provided inside the balloon to expand the balloon to an expanded configuration, and the plasma is generated in the balloon fluid used to expand the balloon to the expanded configuration.

3. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein optical analysis of the returning energy beam with the optical analyzer assembly enables the optical analyzer assembly to optically detect when plasma generation occurs in the balloon fluid within the balloon.

4. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein optical analysis of the return energy beam with the optical analyzer assembly enables the optical analyzer assembly to optically detect a fault in the optical guide at any point along the length of the optical guide from the proximal guide end to the distal guide end.

5. A catheter system as described in claim 1, wherein optical analysis of the returning energy beam with the optical analyzer assembly enables the optical analyzer assembly to optically detect damage to the optical guide at any point along the length of the optical guide from the proximal guide end to the distal guide end.

6. The catheter system of claim 5 , wherein the optical analyzer assembly automatically shuts down operation of the catheter system upon optically detecting damage to the light guide.

7. 10. The catheter system of claim 1, further comprising a pulse generator coupled to the optical source, the pulse generator configured to trigger the optical source to emit a pulse of optical energy, the pulse of optical energy being guided along the optical guide from the proximal guide end to the distal guide end.

8. 8. The catheter system of claim 7, wherein the pulse of optical energy excites a plasma generator positioned near the guide distal end of the optical guide, the plasma generator configured to generate the plasma in the balloon fluid within the balloon interior, the plasma generation causing rapid bubble formation and imparting a pressure wave on the balloon wall adjacent the treatment site.

9. 8. The catheter system of claim 7, wherein the optical analyzer assembly includes a beam splitter and a photodetector, the beam splitter configured to receive the returning energy beam and direct at least a portion of the returning energy beam onto the photodetector.

10. 10. The catheter system of claim 9, further comprising an optical element positioned along the beam path between the beam splitter and the photodetector, the optical element configured to couple the at least a portion of the returning energy beam onto the photodetector.

11. 10. The catheter system of claim 9, wherein the photodetector generates a signal based at least in part on any visible light detected by the photodetector in at least the portion of the return energy beam, the signal from the photodetector being amplified by an amplifier to provide an amplified signal, and the amplified signal is directed to control electronics that analyzes the amplified signal to determine an intensity of the plasma generation in the balloon fluid within the balloon interior.

12. 12. The catheter system of claim 11, wherein the amplified signal is gated using a discriminator circuit and the control electronics compares when a pulse of light energy from the light source occurs as triggered by the pulse generator with when the amplified signal from the light detector is received by the control electronics to determine when the plasma generation occurs in the balloon fluid within the balloon interior.

13. The catheter system includes a second optical source for generating optical energy as an interrogation beam.

10. The catheter system of claim 1, further comprising a second light source, the light guide configured to receive an interrogation beam from the second light source at the guide proximal end and to guide the interrogation beam from the second light source towards the guide distal end.

14. The catheter system of claim 13, further comprising a pulse generator coupled to the second light source, the pulse generator configured to trigger the second light source to emit a pulse of light energy as an interrogation beam, the interrogation beam being guided along the light guide from the proximal end to the distal end of the guide.

15. The catheter system of claim 14 , wherein the second light source is a visible light source.

16. 15. The catheter system of claim 14, further comprising a plasma generator positioned near the guide distal end of the optical guide, wherein at least a portion of the optical energy of the interrogation beam is reflected by the plasma generator back to the guide distal end of the optical guide so as to be directed in the second direction along the optical guide from the guide distal end to the guide proximal end as a returned interrogation beam, the returned interrogation beam being optically analyzed by the optical analyzer assembly as it emerges from the guide proximal end of the optical guide.

17. 17. The catheter system of claim 16, wherein the optical analyzer assembly includes a beam splitter and a photodetector, the beam splitter configured to receive the returned interrogation beam and direct at least a portion of the returned interrogation beam onto the photodetector, the photodetector generating a signal based at least in part on optical energy detected by the photodetector in the at least a portion of the returned interrogation beam, the signal from the photodetector being amplified by an amplifier to provide an amplified signal, the amplified signal being directed to control electronics that analyzes the amplified signal to determine when plasma generation has occurred in the balloon fluid within the interior of the balloon.

18. 18. The catheter system of claim 17, wherein the amplified signal is gated using a discriminator circuit and the control electronics compares when a pulse of light energy from the second light source occurs as triggered by the pulse generator with when the amplified signal from the light detector is received by the control electronics to determine when the plasma generation occurs in the balloon fluid within the balloon interior.

19. The catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the light source comprises a laser and the light guide comprises an optical fiber.

20. The catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the light source includes an infrared laser that emits light energy in the form of pulses of infrared light.

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