Patent · US Expired

Method and apparatus for controlled contraction of soft tissue

US5569242A · kind A · utility

727Cited by
17References
15Claims
0Family size

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateFeb 16, 1995
Grant dateOct 29, 1996
Priority date
Expiry dateFeb 16, 2015

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
  • CPC primaryA61B2018/1861
  • WIPO fieldMedical technology
  • WIPO sectorInstruments

Abstract

An apparatus and method are provided for control contraction of tissue that includes collagen fibers. The apparatus includes a handpiece, and an electrode with an electrode proximal end associated with the handpiece. A distal end of the electrode has a geometry that delivers a controlled amount of energy to the tissue for a desired contraction of the collagen fibers. This is achieved while dissociation and breakdown of the collagen fibers is minimized. The handpiece, with electrode, is adapted to be introduced through an operating cannula in percutaneous applications. Additionally, an operating cannula may be included in the apparatus and be attached to the handpiece. The apparatus and method provides for a desired level of contraction of collagen soft tissue without dissociation or breakdown of collagen fibers.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.