Laser probe temperature control by measuring the returning infra-red radiation.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Devices
• Laser Technology

Background:

• Angioplasty often utilizes laser probes for tissue vaporization.
• Precise temperature control is crucial for effective and safe laser-assisted angioplasty.
• Existing methods for monitoring laser probe temperature can be limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the feasibility of a non-contact feedback control system for laser probes.
• To measure laser probe temperature by detecting infrared radiation transmitted through the optical fiber.
• To assess the accuracy and resolution of this temperature monitoring method.

Main Methods:

• A metallic probe attached to an optical fiber was heated using an argon laser.
• Infrared (IR) radiation emitted by the heated probe was detected using a lead sulfide detector.
• Simultaneous temperature measurements were taken using a thermocouple for validation.
• The IR signal transmitted back through the fiber was analyzed to correlate with probe temperature.

Main Results:

• Infrared radiation emitted by the probe was successfully detected through a 5-meter optical fiber.
• A direct correlation was observed between probe temperature and the detected IR signal, showing an exponential increase.
• A temperature resolution of 1 degree Celsius was achieved at 400 degrees Celsius.
• Temperatures as low as 200 degrees Celsius were measurable.

Conclusions:

• A feedback control system for laser probes is feasible using infrared radiation detection.
• This method allows for real-time, non-contact temperature monitoring during laser-assisted angioplasty.
• The developed system offers high resolution and accuracy for precise temperature control.