Integrated Endoscopic Diode Laser for PDD and PDT
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for photodynamic diagnosis and treatment are complex, cumbersome, and require frequent maintenance, with limited functionality and inefficiency due to the use of discrete component light sources and limited application of diode lasers in endoscopic systems.
Innovation Solution
An endoscopy system incorporating a light source with laser diodes integrated into the proximal end of the endoscope, capable of emitting multiple wavelengths for both diagnostic and therapeutic applications, with synchronous video and diode pulsing for simultaneous readout of multiple modes, improving ergonomics and efficiency by reducing size and bulk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If discrete component light sources (xenon arc lamps) are used in external light towers, then diagnostic light can be generated for PDD/PDT applications, but the system becomes cumbersome, requires frequent maintenance, and has limited functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate components (light source, endoscope, video system, PDT/PDD functionality) into a single integrated endoscopic system. The light-emitting diodes are incorporated directly into the endoscope assembly, eliminating the need for external light towers and separate light guides, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining diagnostic light output capability
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscopic system is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously or sequentially: white light imaging for general diagnosis, blue light excitation for autofluorescence imaging, and photodynamic therapy. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single integrated device with multiple light-emitting diodes of different wavelengths, eliminating the need for separate discrete component systems
2Illumination intensity
If external light towers with large lamp assemblies are used, then sufficient diagnostic light can be provided, but the system size and bulk increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical lamp-based light generation system (xenon arc lamps requiring heavy cooling and power supply infrastructure) with solid-state light-emitting diodes. This substitution dramatically reduces the weight and size of the light source while maintaining sufficient diagnostic light output for both white light imaging and blue light excitation applications
3Illumination intensity
If xenon arc lamps are used as light source, then broad spectrum diagnostic light is available, but the lamps require replacement after limited operating time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs light-emitting diodes that have significantly longer operational lifetimes compared to xenon arc lamps. While individual LEDs may have limited lifetimes, the system uses multiple LEDs that can be selectively replaced, and the overall system maintenance interval is dramatically extended compared to lamp-based systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from thermal radiation-based light generation (xenon lamps) to electroluminescence-based generation (LEDs). This parameter change in the light generation mechanism provides comparable or superior spectral output for diagnostic purposes while eliminating the short operational lifetime inherent to arc lamp systems
4Productivity
If diode lasers are placed at the distal end of the endoscope, then local light delivery is achieved, but additional functionality is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the light delivery function by incorporating multiple separate light-emitting diodes (white light LEDs and blue light LEDs) within the endoscope assembly. This segmentation allows independent control and optimization of each light source for its specific function while maintaining overall system versatility and productivity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system simplifies and enhances the functionality of photodynamic diagnosis and treatment by integrating laser diodes into the endoscope, enabling efficient energy delivery, reducing maintenance needs, and allowing simultaneous diagnostic and therapeutic procedures with improved tissue differentiation.
Implementation Method 1
systems incorporating diode lasers for use in PDD, PDT and AF applications
Implementation Method 2
malignant tissue can be differentiated from benign tissue by administering a suitable fluorescence marker. Under appropriate diagnostic lighting, the marker can be made to fluoresce
Implementation Method 3
The wavelength of the light source is tuned to excite the photosensitizer in order to produce reactive oxygen species. The combination of these elements leads to the destruction of any tissues which have selectively taken up the photosensitizer
Implementation Method 4
Diagnostic light is supplied to the endoscope from a separate and remote external light source using a light guide, which may be a quartz light guide or a fluid light cable
Data Source
AI summary
Endoscopic device incorporating diode lasers for use in PDD, PDT and AF applications. Devices according to the invention do not require an external light source, bulb lamp, or light delivery cables. Multiple laser diodes and multiple wavelengths can be employed in continuous or pulsed applications for simultaneous multi-mode diagnostic readout or simultaneous diagnostic readout and treatment.