Optical imaging of deep anatomic structures
First Claim
Patent Images
1. A method for imaging hemoglobin- or myoglobin-containing anatomical structures, comprising the steps of:
- producing a source of radiant energy selected from the group consisting of an incandescent light source, an infrared light source, a LED, and a quartz-halogen lamp;
emitting said radiant energy to the surface of said hemoglobin- or myoglobin-containing anatomical structure;
detecting reflected radiant energy from said hemoglobin- or myoglobin-containing anatomical structure; and
enhancing contrast of said radiant energy, wherein said reflected radiant energy provides imaging information of said hemoglobin- or myoglobin-containing anatomical structure.
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Abstract
The present invention provides apparatus and means for visualizing blood vessels and subsurface anatomic structures during surgery and in real time with improved optical imaging and minimized trauma to the patient. More specifically, the present invention provides a method for imaging a deep anatomic tissue of interest, comprising the steps of: emitting radiant energy to the surface of said tissue; enhancing contrast of said radiant energy; and detecting reflected radiant energy from said tissue surface, wherein said reflected radiant energy provides imaging information of said tissue.
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Citations
30 Claims
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1. A method for imaging hemoglobin- or myoglobin-containing anatomical structures, comprising the steps of:
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producing a source of radiant energy selected from the group consisting of an incandescent light source, an infrared light source, a LED, and a quartz-halogen lamp;
emitting said radiant energy to the surface of said hemoglobin- or myoglobin-containing anatomical structure;
detecting reflected radiant energy from said hemoglobin- or myoglobin-containing anatomical structure; and
enhancing contrast of said radiant energy, wherein said reflected radiant energy provides imaging information of said hemoglobin- or myoglobin-containing anatomical structure. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
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10. An apparatus for imaging hemoglobin- or myoglobin-containing anatomical structures, comprising:
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a source for producing radiant energy selected from the group consisting of an incandescent light source, an infrared light source, a LED, and a quartz-halogen lamp;
at least one contrast enhancing element; and
a charge-coupled device video camera(s) with a means of focusing. - View Dependent Claims (11, 12, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30)
a charge-coupled device video camera(s) with a means of focusing; and
at least one contrast enhancing element.
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19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein said contrast enhancing element is a black level control that is adjustable to greater than 150 mV.
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20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein said contrast enhancing element is an illumination device that emits two or more wavelengths.
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21. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein said contrast enhancing element is an illumination device that transmits radiant energy with a wavelength greater than 700 to 1000 nm.
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22. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein said contrast enhancing element is a bandpass filter with a center wavelength at or about 760, 880, 925 or 1000 nm.
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23. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein said charge coupled device video camera has an enhanced spectral responsivity at wavelengths beyond 750 nm.
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24. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein said contrast enhancing element uses a digitizer or other means of image subtraction to remove background noise.
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26. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein said contrast enhancing element is capable of measuring two or more wavelengths simultaneously.
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27. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein said means of focusing includes a magnification lens.
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28. An apparatus of claim 18, wherein said apparatus distinguishes between hemoglobin and myoglobin in said anatomical structure.
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29. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein said apparatus is positioned at an angle from radiant energy used to illuminate said anatomical target.
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30. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein said apparatus transmits a signal to a remote monitor.
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13. A method for imaging hemoglobin or myoglobin-containing anatomical structures, comprising the steps of:
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detecting reflected or transmitted radiant energy from said hemoglobin- or myoglobin-containing anatomical structures using a charge coupled device; and
enhancing contrast of said radiant energy, wherein said radiant energy provides imaging information of said anatomical structures. - View Dependent Claims (14, 15, 16, 17, 25)
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Specification