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Laser pulmonary vein isolation

  • US 6,997,924 B2
  • Filed: 09/17/2002
  • Issued: 02/14/2006
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/17/2002
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. An apparatus for electrically isolating a cardiac chamber, comprising:

  • a laser;

    an intravascular catheter for introduction into a pulmonary vein proximate an ostium thereof;

    an anchor disposed at a distal end of said catheter for fixation thereof at said pulmonary vein; and

    an optical assembly for conducting laser light energy from said laser in a path extending to a circumferential ablation region within or adjacent an inner lining of said pulmonary vein, said optical assembly being substantially in a non-contacting relationship with said anchor, said path for laser light energy avoiding said anchor;

    wherein said optical assembly comprises;

    an optical fiber for conducting said laser light energy from said laser;

    a lens disposed at a distal end of said optical fiber; and

    a reflector disposed in said path between said lens and said anchor, said reflector being external to an outer surface of said anchor for directing said laser light energy in a circumferential line.

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