Endoluminal radiofrequency cauterization system

US6676657B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• The United States of America, as represented by the Department of Health and Human Services · US

Inventor

• Bradford Johns Wood · Potomac, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 6, 2001
• Grant date: Jan 13, 2004
• Expiry date: Dec 6, 2021

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2018/1435
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Disclosed are methods and devices for occluding the lumen of a hollow organ by delivering radiofrequency energy to the inner wall of a hollow organ. The disclosure includes radiofrequency electrodes that expand, in a deployed condition, to contact the walls of the organ. In some embodiments, the electrodes substantially conform to the inner wall to enhance therapeutic contact. Methods are also disclosed for using these electrodes to totally or partially occlude a lumen, or remove or reduce a total or partial occlusion of a lumen.