| abstract |
An apparatus for stimulating revascularization of myocardium tissue in the ventricular wall of a human heart is disclosed. The apparatus includes means for moving the distal end of an optical fiber element forwardly through the epicardium of the heart and into the myocardium and emitting relatively low power bursts of laser energy from the distal end to form stimulus injury zones that promote capillary growth and tissue revascularization. Each penetration of the optical fiber element may produce multiple stimulus zones spaced radially from or in line with the axis of the optical fiber element. Apparatus for moving the optical fiber element and controlling the laser emissions in a predetermined manner is also disclosed. |