An active endoscopic system is disclosed containing an electromagnetic
radiation system located at the distal end of the endoscopic device
allowing for variable intensity application of desired wavelengths in the
application of PhotoDynamic Therapy (PDT) over a broad area. The power
sources are varied according to the needs of a specific application.
Various attachments and configurations may be used to enhance performance
of a desired application, including but not limited to multi-balloon
systems for centering the apparatus or limiting the treatment area, fiber
optics for directly viewing the treatment area, vacuum systems for waste
removal, tubes for delivering aminolevulinic acid (ALA) or other
photosensitizers, and other fiber optics for illumination of treatment
area. A preferred embodiment for PDT employs a multitude of low wattage
diodes at the distal end of the endoscope, a scattering glass, cooling
channel, external cooling unit, an inflatable balloon with a reflective
surface and a tube connected to an external pump for the delivery and
removal of photosensitizers. Each diode is selected to emit the
respective frequency needed to activate the selected photosensitizer.
Alternatively, a range of diodes may be selected to maximize the
activation of the photosensitizer. Other embodiments include a
chemiluminescent light source at the distal end of the endoscope. Other
electromagnetic sources include microwave or radio frequency devices. The
prime benefit of this system is the placement of the radiation source at
the distal end of the device to bring the light source directly to the
desired site.