Multipolar, multi-lumen, virtual-electrode catheter with at least one surface electrode and method for ablation
US7416552B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 22, 2005 |
| Grant date | Aug 26, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 2, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2218/002
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Multipolar, multi-lumen, virtual-electrode catheters having at least one surface electrode, and methods for treatment (e.g., treatment of cardiac arrhythmias) with such catheters are disclosed. The catheters have at least two internal lumens, and at least one internal, flexible electrode rides in each internal lumen. The flexible electrodes carry treatment energy (e.g., radiofrequency energy). The energy exits the catheters via at least one exit feature (e.g., slots, portholes, or micro-pores). The methods for treatment include operating the catheters in different modes depending upon location and type of treatment to be performed. The treatment energy delivered by one of the internal, flexible electrodes may be directed to the other internal, flexible electrode; or the energy delivered by one or both of the internal, flexible electrodes may be directed to one or more surface electrodes. The delivered energy establishes at least one electric field, and possibly one or more lesions, in the tissue.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.