Lightstix and laser activated sutures

We describe the current status of the development of extremely small, flexible diffusing tips for delivery of light for photochemical therapies as well as the status of the power delivering capabilities of our designs for delivery of Nd:YAG laser energy for photothermal therapies. We also describe variations of the tip design that use a laminated reflector to direct the light while maintaining the uniformity of the light distributed along the tip. Some of the other important features of these Lightstix diffusers are: a no stick outer surface that prevents sticking of the tip to carbonized tissues; uniformity in illumination independent of the bend radius experienced by the tip; high transmission efficiency; ability to design the length of the diffuser from 2 mm to 35 mm; flexibility; and small increase in the outer diameter of the fiber. We review the design principles involved in adjusting the tips parameters and update as to the current clinical status of Lightstix used in medicine