Method for ablating and/or coagulating tissue using moisture transport
US6813520B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 23, 1998 |
| Grant date | Nov 2, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 23, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2090/065
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus and method for use in performing ablation or coagulation of organs and other tissue includes a metallized fabric electrode array which is substantially absorbent and/or permeable to moisture and gases such as steam and conformable to the body cavity. The array includes conductive regions separated by insulated regions arranged to produce ablation to a predetermined depth. Following placement of the ablation device into contact with the tissue to be ablated, an RF generator is used to deliver RF energy to the conductive regions and to thereby induce current flow from the electrodes to tissue to be ablated. As the current heats the tissue, moisture (such as steam or liquid) leaves the tissue causing the tissue to dehydrate. Suction may be applied to facilitate moisture removal. The moisture permeability and/or absorbency of the electrode carrying member allows the moisture to leave the ablation site so as to prevent the moisture from providing a path of conductivity for the current.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.