Method for controlled contraction of collagen tissue via non-continuous energy delivery
US5948011A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 28, 1997 |
| Grant date | Sep 7, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 28, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2205/073
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method for applying radiant energy through the skin to underlying collagen tissue without substantially modifying melanocytes and other epithelial cells in the epidermis by delivering non-continuous energy. A porous membrane is adapted to receive an electrolytic solution and become inflated to substantially conform a contacting exterior surface of the membrane to a skin layer. The membrane includes a cooling lumen for receiving cooling fluid. One or more thermal electrodes positioned in the membrane and transfers thermal energy to the electrolytic solution. The electrolytic solution and cooling fluid creates a reverse thermal gradient from the skin surface to the underlying collagen tissue. A thermal power source is coupled to the thermal electrodes, and a source of electrolytic solution is coupled to the membrane.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.