Multi-electrode catheter, system and method
US6546270B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 7, 2000 |
| Grant date | Apr 8, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 7, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2034/2051
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system for detecting electrode-tissue contact comprises a multi-electrode catheter having a location sensor and a plurality of contact electrodes. The catheter preferably further comprises a reference electrode that is preferably protected from making contact with tissue. The system further comprises a signal generator to transmit test signals to each of the contact electrodes and to the reference electrode. Tissue contact is detected by comparing the signals across the tip electrode to a return electrode versus the signal across the reference electrode to a return electrode. Ablation energy may be delivered to the contact electrodes if contact of the electrode with tissue is detected.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.