Method and apparatus for treating esophageal varices
US6033397A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 26, 1996 |
| Grant date | Mar 7, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 26, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2018/1497
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A catheter delivers an electrode within a vein for a minimally invasive treatment of esophageal varices using RF energy. The catheter is introduced into and positioned within the section of the vein to be treated. The electrode radiates high frequency energy towards the vein, and the surrounding venous tissue becomes heated and begins to shrink. The extent of shrinkage of the vein is detected by fluoroscopy. The electrode remains active until there has been sufficient shrinkage of the vein. The electrode may remain active for an extended period of time so as to promote a thickening of the immediately surrounding esophageal tissue. The catheter includes a controllable member for limiting the amount of shrinkage of the vein to the diameter of the member. After treating one section of the vein, the catheter and the electrode are repositioned within the venous system to treat different sections until all desired venous sections are rendered functionally competent.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.