Light therapy devices for urethral health

Abstract

A urethral light therapy device includes a probe sized and configured for insertion into the urethral opening. The probe has a probe proximal end, a probe distal end and a probe longitudinal length therebetween. The device includes at least one light source associated with the probe and extending at least partially along the longitudinal length of the probe. The light source emits light at a wavelength that inhibits microbes and / or promotes urethral tissue health.

Description

LIGHT THERAPY DEVICES FOR URETHRAL HEALTHThe present application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S.Provisional Application No. 63 / 603,572, filed November 28, 2023, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF DISCLOSURE

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to light therapy devices for urethral health. More particularly, the present disclosure generally relates to devices that are sized and configured to be inserted into the urethra and emit light that inhibits potentially harmful microbes (bacteria, yeast, and viruses) and promotes healing, repair, and urethral tissue health.BACKGROUND

[0002] Intermittent catheterization is a good option for many users who suffer from various urinary system abnormalities. With the advent of intermittent urinary catheters, individuals with problems associated with the urinary system can conveniently self-catheterize to drain the individual's bladder. Individuals who suffer from urinary incontinence will self-catheterize several times a day.

[0003] Although catheters are typically prepared in sterile environments and provided with safe handling instructions, catheter users risk contracting a urinary tract infection due to several factors. For example, the catheters may become contaminated during use and introduce potentially harmful microbes (bacteria / viruses / yeast) into the urethra and the bladder. The catheter also may pick up and carry potentially harmful microbes (bacteria / viruses / yeast) from one section of the urinary tract to another section of the urinary tract or bladder, thereby increasing the risk of urinary tract infections.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for methods and devices that allow catheter users to prevent urinary tract infections.SUMMARY

[0005] In one aspect, a urethral light therapy device includes a probe sized and configured for insertion into the urethral opening. The probe has a probe proximal end, a probe distal end and a probe longitudinal length therebetween. The device includes at least one light source associated with the probe and extending at leastpartially along the longitudinal length of the probe. The light source emits light at a wavelength that inhibits microbes and / or promotes urethral tissue health.

[0006] In another aspect, a urethral light therapy device and urinary catheter product includes an intermittent urinary catheter having a catheter tube. The device also includes a probe being sized and configured to be inserted into a urethra opening. The probe has a lumen therethrough that is sized and configured to receive the catheter tube therethrough. The probe has a probe longitudinal length. The device includes at least one light source associated with the probe and extending at least partially along the probe longitudinal length. The light source emits light at a wavelength that inhibits microbes and / or promotes urethral tissue health.

[0007] In yet another aspect, a urethral light therapy device and urinary catheter product includes a probe defining a urinary catheter with a probe proximal end, a probe distal end and a drainage lumen. A drainage opening associated with the probe proximal end, wherein the drainage opening is in communication with the drainage lumen and is configured to drain urine from the bladder. The device includes at least one light source associated with the probe and extending at least partially along the longitudinal length of the probe. The light source emits light at a wavelength that inhibits microbes and / or promotes urethral tissue health.

[0008] In one alternative of any of the devices, products, and embodiments disclosed herein, the light source emits light from 305 nm to 400 nm, preferably 305 nm to 334 nm and / or 350 nm to 400 nm. In another alternative, the probe / light source emits light for photobiomodulation. For instance, the light source deploys red and / or near infrared light to the urethral tissue to promote the health of urinary tract tissue. In one example, the light source emits light having wavelengths from 632 nm to 1064 nm. In yet another alternative, the light source emits red / near infrared light and blue light in tandem and / or in conjunction. The red / near infrared and blue lights may be emitted together or one after another. The blue light may have wavelengths from 450 nm to 495 nm. In this alternative, the red / near infrared light promotes tissue health, and the blue light provides antimicrobial effects.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0009] Fig. 1 is a top view of a light therapy device in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0010] Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the light therapy device of Fig 1 .

[0011] Fig. 3 is a schematic illustration of the light therapy device of Fig. 1 being inserted into a urethra.

[0012] Fig. 4 is a top view of another embodiment of a light therapy device in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0013] Fig. 5 is a top view of one embodiment of a light source that can be employed with the light therapy devices disclosed herein.

[0014] Fig. 6 is a schematic illustration of the light therapy device of Fig. 4 being inserted into a urethra.

[0015] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a probe that can be employed with the light therapy devices disclosed herein.

[0016] Fig. 8 is a perspective, cut-away view of the probe of Fig. 7.

[0017] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the core of the probe of Fig 7.

[0018] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the lighting unit of the probe of Fig. 7.

[0019] Fig .11 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a probe that can be employed with the light therapy devices disclosed herein.

[0020] Fig. 12 is a perspective, cut-away view of the probe of Fig. 11 .

[0021] Fig . 13 is a perspective view of the core of the probe of Fig 11 .

[0022] Fig. 14 is a perspective view of a lighting unit of the probe of Fig. 11 .

[0023] Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a urethral light therapy device in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0024] Fig. 16 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the probe of the light therapy device of Fig 15.

[0025] Fig. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the probe of the light therapy device of Fig 15.

[0026] Fig. 18 is a partial cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the probe of the light therapy device of Fig 15.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] While the subject matter of the present disclosure is susceptible to embodiments in various forms, there will hereinafter be described presently preferred embodiments with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification and is not intended to limit the disclosure to the specific embodiments illustrated. The words "a" or "an" are to be taken to include both the singular and the plural. Conversely, any reference to plural items shall, where appropriate, include the singular.

[0028] Turning to Figs. 1 and 2, these figures illustrate an embodiment of a urethral light therapy device 10 in accordance with the present disclosure.Urethral light therapy device 10 includes a device proximal end portion 12 and a device distal end portion 14. Device proximal end portion 12 includes or defines a probe 16 having a probe proximal end 18 and a probe distal end 20. Optionally, device distal end portion 14 may include or define a handle or gripping member 22. A shoulder 24 may be positioned between probe 16 and gripping member 22.

[0029] Probe 16 is sized and configured to be inserted in the urethral opening of a user. In some embodiments, probe 16 may have a rounded cone shape, wherein probe proximal end 18 is curved or round. In some embodiments, the probe longitudinal length L between probe proximal end 18 and probe distal end 20 may be between 12 mm and 460 mm. Probe longitudinal length L may vary depending on the application and desired location of light therapy along the urethra and bladder. The cross-sectional width of probe 16 is sized for insertion into the urethra and may vary based on the application and user. In some embodiments, the cross-section width may be between 1.67 mm and 8 mm. In some embodiments, probe 16 may have a French size between 5 Fr and 24 Fr.

[0030] At least one light source 26 is associated with probe 16. Light source 26 extends at least partially along the longitudinal length of probe 16. In some embodiments, light source 26 has a longitudinal length between 15 mm and 50 mm. Light source(s) 26 may include one lighting unit 28 or a plurality of lighting units 28, as shown in Fig. 2. Lighting units 28 may be light emitting diodes (LEDs) or any other suitable lighting unit. For example, lighting units also may be a fiber optic mesh, nano-printed fiber optic wavelength guide, laser diodes, etc. Lightsource(s) 26 may be associated with probe 16 in any number of configurations. In the illustrated embodiment, light source(s) 26 is located within probe 16. For example, light source(s) 26 may be attached to an inner surface 30 of probe 16 (similar to that shown and described relative to Fig. 16). In other alternatives, light source(s) 26 may be embedded in the wall or material of probe 16 (similar to that shown and described relative to Fig. 17). For example, probe 16 may be formed by over-molding material around light source(s) 26. In other alternatives, probe 16 may be formed, the material of the probe may be melted or softened, and light source(s) 26 may be pressed into the material. In yet another alternative, light source(s) 26 may be placed into a lumen of probe 16 (similar to that shown and described relative to Fig. 18). The lumen may be close fitting and / or have tolerances that hold light source(s) 26 in place.

[0031] In some embodiments, the material of probe 16 is a polymer. The polymer may be a thermoplastic, thermoplastic elastomer, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyolefin, styrenic TPEs, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyacrylate, silicone etc. or a thermoset material such as epoxy resin, polyurethane, polyacrylate, silicone etc. Alternatively, the material may be glass or glass with a polymer coating. The material of the probe allows the passage of light therethrough. The material is translucent and / or transparent so that the light 27 emitted from light source(s) 26 / lighting units 28 passes through the material. Light 27 passing through the material of probe 16 is applied to the tissue of the urethra. Light 27 emitted from light source(s) 26 / lighting units 26 and emanating or exiting the probe material has a wavelength that inhibits potentially harmful microbes (bacteria and / or yeast / viruses) and / or promotes urethral tissue health. For example, light 27 may inhibit microbes by killing and / or preventing the proliferation of the microbes. Light 27 may promote urethral health by promoting urethral tissue healing and repair.

[0032] In one alternative, light 27 emanating from probe 16 is ultraviolet light. In some embodiments, light 27 is ultraviolet light having a wavelength between 305 nm and 400 nm, which may be ultraviolet-A light. In some embodiments, ultraviolet light 27 emanating from probe 16 may have a wavelength from 305 nm to 334 nm and / or 350 nm to 400 nm. In some embodiments, light source(s) 26and lighting units 28 may emit ultraviolet light. In some embodiments, the light may be ultraviolet light having a wavelength between 305 nm and 400 nm, which may be ultraviolet-A light. In some embodiments, the ultraviolet light emitted from light source(s) 26 and lighting units 28 may be 305 nm to 334 nm and / or 350 nm to 400 nm. The intensity of the light emitted from light source(s) 26 / lighting units (28) and probe 16 may be 0.05 - 10mW / cm2.

[0033] In another alternative, the probe / light source emits light for photobiomodulation. For instance, the light source deploys red and / or near infrared light to the urethral tissue to promote the health of urinary tract tissue. In one example, the light source emits light having wavelengths from 632 nm to 1064 nm. Photobiomodulation therapy, exposing urethral tissue to red / near infrared light, may enhance mitochondrial function / increased ATP production of the urethra / bladder tissue, which can boost cellular processes, mitigate inflammation, and promote tissue healing. This can lead to stronger and healthier cell turnover.

[0034] In yet another alternative, the light source emits red / near infrared light and blue light in tandem and / or in conjunction. The red / near infrared and blue lights may be emitted together or one after another. The blue light may have wavelengths from 450 nm to 495 nm. In this alternative, the red / near infrared light promotes tissue health (as described above), and the blue light provides antimicrobial effects. For example, the blue light may react with bacterial cells by forming oxygen species that attack components of the bacterial cells.

[0035] The wavelength of light emitted from light source(s) 26 / lighting units 28 and the transparency / translucency of the material of probe 16 may be adjusted to result in a selected wavelength of light emanating from probe 16. For example, the type of material, transparency / translucency of the material, the material thickness, light wavelength, light intensity, etc., can be adjusted to result in a selected wavelength or range of wavelengths of light being emanated from probe 16. The light source(s) 26 and material of probe 16 may be selected so that the temperature produced by light source(s) 26 does not affect the integrity of the material of probe 16. For example, the light source(s) 26 and the material of probe 16 may be selected so that the temperature produced by light source(s) 26 does not melt the material of probe 16.

[0036] The light source(s) 26 may also include a power source 32 that provides power to the light source(s) 26. Power source 32 may include batteries (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, power source 32 is operatively connected to light source(s) 26 by a wire 34. Wire 34 may be loose, embedded, or attached to the material of therapy device 10. Therapy device 10 may be reusable or disposable. If therapy device 10 is disposable, power source 32 may be disconnected from a used therapy device and connected to a new therapy device 10. Additionally, therapy device 10 may include a timer that keeps the light source(s) 26 on or powered for a selected period of time and then turns light source(s) 26 off. The timer may be associated with power source 32 or light source(s) 26.

[0037] In some embodiments, urethral light therapy device 10 defines or serves as a catheter introduction aid. In some catheterization patients, there can be a section of the urethra adjacent to the urethral opening that contains potentially harmful microbes. In such embodiments, the longitudinal length L of probe 15 may be sufficient to extend past this section. For example, longitudinal length L may be between 10 mm and 25 mm. Additionally, light therapy device 10 includes a device lumen 36 for passage of a urinary catheter 38 therethrough. In the illustrated embodiment, device distal end portion 14 includes an opening 40 in communication with lumen 36 and for receiving urinary catheter 38. The terminal end of device proximal end portion 12 includes an opening 41 in communication with lumen 36 for the passage of urinary catheter 38 therethrough. Opening 41 may include petals that flex to open and close the opening. As mentioned above, light source(s) 26 are attached to inner surface 30 and located in device lumen 36. Light source(s) 26 is positioned so urinary catheter 38 may pass through device lumen 36.

[0038] Turning to Fig. 3, during catheterization, a user grasps urethral light therapy device 10 by the gripping member 22 and inserts probe 16 into the urethral opening 42. Light source(s) 26 is activated to emit light that passes through the material of probe 16 and is applied to the urethral tissue 46. The light emanates from probe 16, inhibits potentially harmful microbes, and / or promotes urethral health. After the light has been applied for a selected period of time,urinary catheter 38 is advanced through device lumen 36 and the urethra into the bladder 44. When a timer is present, the timer shuts off light source(s) 26 after a selected time period.

[0039] In an alternative embodiment, urethral light therapy device 10 does not serve as an introduction aid. In such an embodiment, probe 16 may be a solid component with light source(s) 26 therein. Before catheterization, probe 16 is inserted into urethral opening 42, and light source(s) 26 is activated to apply light from probe 16 to the urethral tissue 46. After a selected amount of time, light source(s) 26 is shut off, and probe 16 is removed. The user then proceeds with performing intermittent catheterization.

[0040] Fig. 4 illustrates another embodiment of a urethral light therapy device 1 10 in accordance with the present disclosure. Light therapy device 1 10 includes a device proximal end portion 1 12 and a device distal end portion 114. Device proximal end portion 112 includes or defines a probe 116 having a probe proximal end 118 and a probe distal end 120. Optionally, device distal end portion 1 14 may include or define a handle or gripping member 122. A shoulder 124 may be located at the proximal end of gripping member 122.

[0041] Probe 116 is sized and configured to be inserted in the urethral opening of a user. In some embodiments, the probe longitudinal length L' between probe proximal end 118 and probe distal end 120 may be between 12 mm and 460 mm. The probe longitudinal length L' may vary depending on the application and desired location of light therapy. The cross-sectional width of probe 116 is sized for insertion in the urethra and may vary depending on the user. In some embodiments, the cross-section width may be between 1 .67 mm and 8 mm. In some embodiments, probe 116 may have a French size between 5 Fr and 24 Fr.

[0042] At least one light source 126 is associated with probe 116. Light source(s) 126 may include one lighting unit 128 or a plurality of lighting unit 128. Lighting units 128 may be any of the lighting units disclosed herein. Light source(s) 126 may be associated with probe 116 in various configurations. In the illustrated embodiment, light source(s) 126 is located within probe 116. For example, light source(s) 126 may be attached to an inner surface 130 of probe 1 16. In other alternatives, light source(s) 126 may be embedded in the wall or thematerial of probe 116 (similar to that shown and described relative to Fig. 17). For example, probe 116 may be formed by over-molding material around light source(s) 126. In other alternatives, probe 116 may be formed, the material of probe 116 may be melted or softened, and light sources(s) 126 may be pressed into the material. In yet another alternative, light source(s) 126 may be placed into a lumen of probe 116 (similar to that shown and described relative to Fig. 18). The lumen may be close fitting and / or have tolerances that hold light source(s) 128 in place. Light therapy device 110 may include a power source 132 operatively connected to light source(s) 126.

[0043] Fig. 5 illustrates one embodiment of a light source 126. In this embodiment, light source 126 includes a plurality of lighting units 128, which may be LEDs. The lighting units 128 are longitudinally arranged relative to one another and are connected sequentially connected to each other by wires 134 and 136. Leads 138 and 140 of light source 126 are connected to power source 132, which may be the same or similar to power source 32.

[0044] Turning to Fig. 6, before catheterization, a user grasps light therapy device 110 by gripping member 122 and inserts probe 116 into the urethral opening 42. Light source(s) 126 is activated to apply light from probe 116 to the urethral tissue 46. After a selected amount of time, light source(s) 126 is shut off, and probe 116 is removed. The user then proceeds with performing intermittent catheterization to drain bladder 44.

[0045] Figs. 7-10 illustrate an alternative embodiment of a probe 216. Probe 216 includes tube 218 having a lumen 220. Tube 218 may be made of any polymer materials disclosed herein, and probe 216 may have any of the sizes disclosed herein.

[0046] Light source 222 is located within tube 218. Light source 222 includes a core 224 with lighting units 226 associated therewith. Lighting units 226 may be any of the lighting units disclosed herein. Core 224 includes a framework having a plurality of platforms 228 for supporting lighting units 226. In some embodiments, each platform 228 may support two lighting units 226. Platforms 228 may have a seat or surface 230a on one side of platform 228 that supports a first lighting unit and another seat or surface 230b on the opposite side of platform228 for supporting a second lighting unit 226. In some embodiments, lighting units 226 are attached to the seats or surfaces 230a, 230b of platforms 228 by, for example, an adhesive. In another embodiment, lighting units 226 sit on the seats or surfaces 230a, 230b of platforms 228 without being attached.

[0047] In the illustrated embodiments, platforms 228 have a generally cubical shape, such as a rectangular cube. However, platforms 228 could also be any other regular or irregular shapes. The seats 230a, 230b are defined on the opposed larger faces of the platform's rectangular cube. Platforms 228 are arranged sequentially in an alternating pattern wherein each platform 228 is rotated at a 90-degree angle from an immediately adjacent platform 228. In other words, the plane of a seat 230a, 230b of a platform is perpendicular to the plane of a seat 230a, 230b of an immediately adjacent platform. It will be understood that the platforms could be arranged in various orientations or various degrees relative to adjacent platforms. Furthermore, shorter faces 232a, 232b of the immediately adjacent platforms 228 extend perpendicularly on each side of the adjacent platform, which may assist in aligning the lighting units in seats 230a, 230b.

[0048] The light source 222 is assembled by associating lighting units 226 with seats 230a and 230b of core 224. Lighting units 226 may be attached by wires and powered by a power source as previously described herein. Core 224 is then inserted into tube 218 of probe 216. Fig. 10 shows a schematic illustration of light 234 emitted from light source 226. Fig. 8 shows a schematic representation of light 234a and light pattern 234b that emanates from probe 216 when light source 222 is activated.

[0049] Figs. 11-14 illustrate an alternative embodiment of a probe 316. Probe 316 includes tube 318 with lumen 320. Tube 318 may be made of any polymer materials disclosed herein, and probe 316 may have any of the sizes disclosed herein.

[0050] A light source 322 is located within tube 318. Light source 322 includes a core 324 with lighting units 326 associated therewith. Lighting units 326 may be any of the lighting units disclosed herein. Like core 224, core 324 includes aframework with a plurality of platforms 328 for supporting lighting units 326, and platforms 328 may have the same shape as platforms 228.

[0051] Seats or surfaces 330a, 330b for supporting lighting units 326 are defined on the opposed larger faces of the platform's rectangular cube. Platforms 328 are arranged sequentially in an alternating pattern wherein each platform 328 is rotated at a 120-degree angle from an immediately adjacent platform 328. In other words, the plane of a seat 330a, 330b of a platform 328 is at a 120 degrees angle relative to the plane of a seat 330a, 330b of an immediately adjacent platform 328. It will be understood that the platforms could be arranged in various orientations or various degrees relative to adjacent platforms. Furthermore, shorter faces 332a, 332b of the immediately adjacent platforms 328 extend perpendicularly from each side of adjacent platforms, which may assist in aligning the lighting units 326 in seats 330a, 330b.

[0052] The light source 322 is assembled by associating lighting units 326 with seats 330a and 330b of core 324. Lighting units 326 may be attached by wires and powered by a power source as previously described herein. Core 324 is then inserted into tube 318 of probe 316. Fig. 14 shows a schematic illustration of light 334 emitted from light source 326. Fig. 12 shows a schematic representation of light 334a and light pattern 334b that emanates from probe 316 when light source 322 is activated.

[0053] Fig. 15 illustrates an alternative urethral light therapy device 410 that defines, serves as, or is also a urinary catheter. Alternatively, device 410 can be a considered urinary catheter with light therapy features. The illustrated light therapy device 410 includes a probe 412 that defines or serves as a generally flexible catheter tube 415, which may be made from any polymer materials disclosed herein. Probe 412 extends between a probe proximal end portion 414 and probe distal end portion 416. Probe 412 has one or more openings or eyelets 418 associated with the probe proximal end portion 414 for flowing urine from the bladder into a drainage lumen 422 (Figs. 16-18) of probe 412. Probe distal end portion 416 is illustrated with an associated drainage member, such as a funnel 420, which may be a generally rigid component that is secured to the probe distal end portion 416. Drainage funnel 420 may be configured to direct fluid from out ofdrainage lumen 422 of probe 412 to a collection container or disposal device, such as a toilet.

[0054] Probe 412 may be provided as a hydrophilic tube, in which case it may include a hydrophilic outer surface along at least a portion of the probe's length. If provided, the hydrophilic portion of the probe becomes lubricious when wetted or hydrated with a hydration fluid, such as liquid water or saline, or water vapor. The hydrophilic outer surface is sufficiently translucent and / or transparent to allow light to pass therethrough. Alternatively, catheter tube 415 may be lubricated with a gel lubricant.

[0055] Probe 412 includes at least one light source 426 associated therewith. Light source(s) 426 may extend along substantially the entire longitudinal length of probe 412. Alternatively, light source(s) 426 may extend at least along a portion of the longitudinal length of probe 412. Furthermore, a plurality of light sources 426 may be spaced apart along the longitudinal length of probe 412 and / or spaced apart around the circumference of probe 412. Similar to the above, light source(s) 426 may include at least one lighting unit 428 or a plurality of lighting units 428 (Figs. 16-18). Light source(s) 426 and lighting units 428 may be any of those disclosed herein. Furthermore, a power source may be connected to light source(s) 426. Probe 412 may be reusable or may be disposable. When probe 412 is disposable, after use, the power source is disconnected from probe 412, and the probe is disposed of. The power source is connected to a new probe 412.

[0056] Figs. 16-18 illustrate different configurations for associating light source(s) 426 with probe 412. These configurations may also be employed with any probe embodiments disclosed herein. Turning to Fig. 16, light source(s) 426 includes a plurality of lighting units 428. Light source(s) 426 are positioned in drainage lumen 422 and against an inner surface of probe 412. Light source(s) 426 may be held in place by friction fit, adhesive, or a suitable bonding. Referring to Fig. 17, in some embodiments, light source(s) 426 are embedded in the wall or the material of probe 412. Referring to Fig. 18, probe 412 may include dual lumens. Drainage lumen 422 allows urine flow, and another lumen 430 contains light source(s) 426. The dual lumens may be parallel or coaxial.

[0057] During intermittent catheterization, probe 412 is inserted at least partially into the urethra of a user. For example, probe 412 or probe tube 415 may be inserted a selected distance into the urethra short of the bladder. Alternatively, probe 412 could be advanced through the urethra until probe proximal end portion 414 enters the bladder. Light source(s) 426 is activated to emit light. The emitted light travels through the material of probe 412, where it is applied to urethral tissue. In some embodiments, light source(s) 426 emit light for a selected time. In such embodiments, if a timer is used, the timer shuts off light source(s) 426 after a set time. In other embodiments, light source(s) 426 remain on during the entire catheterization process. If probe 412 was inserted short of the bladder, after a selected period of time, probe 412 is further inserted until probe proximal end 414 enters the bladder. Urine drains from the bladder through eyelets 418 and drainage lumen 422. After urine drainage, probe 412 is withdrawn from the urethra.

[0058] It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention disclosed herein.

Claims

Claims1 . A urethral light therapy device, comprising: a probe sized and configured for insertion into the urethral opening, the probe having a probe proximal end, a probe distal end and a probe longitudinal length therebetween; at least one light source associated with the probe and extending at least partially along the longitudinal length of the probe, the light source emitting light at a wavelength that inhibits microbes and / or promotes urethral tissue health.

2. The urethral light therapy device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one light source comprises one or more lighting units.

3. The urethral light therapy device of claim 2, wherein the lighting units comprise light emitting diodes.

4. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 1 -3, wherein the light emitted from the light source has a wavelength of between 305 nm and 400 nm, preferably 305 nm to 334 nm and / or 350 nm to 400 nm.

5. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 1 -4, wherein the light emitted from the light source has a wavelength 632 nm to 1064 nm.

6. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 1 -5, wherein the light emitted from the light source has a wavelength 450 nm to 495 nm.

7. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 1 -3, wherein the light source emits a first light being red and / or near infrared and a second light being a blue.

8. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 1 -3, wherein the light source emits a first light at a first wavelength to promote urethral tissue health and a second light at a second wavelength to inhibit microbial activity.

9. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 7 and 8, wherein the first and second lights are emitted at simultaneously or one after the other.

10. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 1 -9, wherein the probe longitudinal length is between 12 mm and 460 mm.11 . The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 1-10, wherein the light source has a longitudinal length between 15 mm and 50 mm.

12. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 1 -11 , where the at least one light source comprises two or more light sources.

13. The urethral light therapy device of claim 12, wherein the two or more light sources are longitudinally spaced apart along the probe longitudinal length.

14. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 1 -13, wherein the probe comprises a wall and the at least one light source is embedded in the wall.

15. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 1 -14, wherein the probe includes a probe lumen therethrough.

16. The urethral light therapy device of claim 15, wherein the at least one light source is located in the probe lumen.

17. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 15 and 16, wherein the probe lumen is configured for the passage of a urinary catheter therethrough.

18. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 15 and 16, wherein the probe lumen is configured for the passage of urine therethrough.

19. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 1 -18, further including a timer operatively connected to the at least one light source, wherein the timer turns off the at least one light source after a selected time period.

20. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 1 -19, further including a handle associated with the probe distal end.21 . The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 2-20, wherein the at least one light source comprises a core having platforms supporting the lighting units.

22. The urethral light therapy device of claim 21 , wherein the platforms are angled relative to immediately adjacent platforms.

23. A urethral light therapy device and urinary catheter product, comprising: an intermittent urinary catheter having a catheter tube; a probe being sized and configured to be inserted into a urethra opening, the probe having a lumen therethrough that is sized and configured to receive the catheter tube therethrough, the probe having a probe longitudinal length; at least one light source associated with the probe and extending at least partially along the probe longitudinal length, the light source emitting light at a wavelength that inhibits microbes and / or promotes urethral tissue health.

24. The product of claim 23, wherein the at least one light source comprises one or more lighting units.

25. The product of claim 24, wherein the lighting units comprise light emitting diodes.

26. The product of any one of claims 23-25, wherein the light emitted from the light source has a wavelength of between 305 nm and 400 nm, preferably 305 nm to 334 nm and / or 350 nm to 400 nm.

27. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 23-26, wherein the light emitted from the light source has a wavelength 632 nm to 1064 nm.

28. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 23-27, wherein the light emitted from the light source has a wavelength 450 nm to 495 nm.

29. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 23-25, wherein the light source emits a first light being red and / or near infrared and a second light being a blue.

30. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 23-25, wherein the light source emits a first light at a first wavelength to promote urethral tissue health and a second light at a second wavelength to inhibit microbial activity.31 . The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 29 and 30, wherein the first and second lights are emitted at simultaneously or one after the other.

32. The product of any one of claims 23-31 , wherein the probe longitudinal length is between 12 mm and 460 mm.

33. The product of any one of claims 23-32, wherein the light source has a longitudinal length between 15 mm and 50 mm.

34. The product of any one of claims 23-33, where the at least one light source comprises two or more light sources.

35. The product of claim 34, wherein the two or more light sources are longitudinally spaced apart along the probe longitudinal length.

36. The product of any one of claims 23-35, wherein the probe comprises a wall and the at least one light source is embedded in the wall.

37. The product of any one of claims 23-36, further including a timer operatively connected to the at least one light source, wherein the timer turns off the at least one light source after a selected time period.

38. The product of any one of claims 23-37, further including a handle associated with a distal end of the probe.

39. The product of any one of claims 24-38, wherein the at least one light source comprises a core having platforms supporting the lighting units.

40. The product of claim 39, wherein the platforms are angled relative to immediately adjacent platforms.41 . A urethral light therapy device and urinary catheter product, comprising: a probe defining a urinary catheter with a probe proximal end, a probe distal end and a drainage lumen; a drainage opening associated with the probe proximal end, wherein the drainage opening is in communication with the drainage lumen and is configured to drain urine from the bladder; at least one light source associated with the probe and extending at least partially along the longitudinal length of the probe, the light source emitting light at a wavelength that inhibits microbes and / or promotes urethral tissue health.

42. The product of claim 41 , wherein the at least one light source comprises one or more lighting units.

43. The product of claim 42, wherein the lighting units comprise light emitting diodes.

44. The product of any one of claims 41-43, wherein the light emitted from the light source has a wavelength of between 305 nm and 400 nm, preferably 305 nm to 334 nm and / or 350 nm to 400 nm.

45. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 41 -44, wherein the light emitted from the light source has a wavelength 632 nm to 1064 nm.

46. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 41 -45, wherein the light emitted from the light source has a wavelength 450 nm to 495 nm.

47. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 41 -43, wherein the light source emits a first light being red and / or near infrared and a second light being a blue.

48. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 41 -43, wherein the light source emits a first light at a first wavelength to promote urethral tissue health and a second light at a second wavelength to inhibit microbial activity.

49. The urethral light therapy device of any one of claims 47 and 48, wherein the first and second lights are emitted at simultaneously or one after the other.

50. The product of any one of claims 41-49, wherein the probe longitudinal length is between 12 mm and 460 mm.51 . The product of any one of claims 41 -50, wherein the light source has a longitudinal length between 15 mm and 50 mm.

52. The product of any one of claims 41-51 , where the at least one light source comprises two or more light sources.

53. The product of claim 52, wherein the two or more light sources are longitudinally spaced apart along the probe longitudinal length.

54. The product of any one of claims 41-53, wherein the probe comprises a wall and the at least one light source is embedded in the wall.

55. The product of any one of claims 41-53, wherein the probe includes another lumen.

56. The product of claim 55, wherein the at least one light source is located in the another lumen.

57. The product of any one of claims 41-56, further including a timer operatively connected to the at least one light source, wherein the timer turns off the at least one light source after a selected time period.

58. The product of any one of claims 41-57, further including a handle associated with the probe distal end.

59. The product of any one of claims 32-58, wherein the at least one light source comprises a core having platforms supporting the lighting units.

60. The product of claim 59, wherein the platforms are angled relative to immediately adjacent platforms.

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