System and method for detecting electrode-tissue contact
US6569160B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 7, 2000 |
| Grant date | May 27, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 25, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2090/3958
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system for detecting electrode-tissue contact comprises a catheter having a location sensor and a distal tip electrode. 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 the distal tip and reference electrodes. 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 distal tip electrode if contact of the electrode with tissue is detected.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.