Ultrasonic medical device operating in a transverse mode
US7494468B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 21, 2003 |
| Grant date | Feb 24, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 9, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N2007/0008
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An ultrasonic medical device comprises an ultrasonic vibration generator that generates vibration along its longitudinal axis. The ultrasonic vibration is transmitted through an ultrasonic coupler and a series of transformer sections that amplify the ultrasonic vibration. A flexible member is coupled to the distal end of the transformer sections, and is thus supplied with a longitudinal vibration at its base by the transformer sections. The flexible member is designed so that it converts the longitudinal vibration into a standing wave that runs along the length of the flexible member. The standing wave produces a series of nodes and anti-nodes along the length of the flexible member. Each of the anti-nodes produces cavitation in fluids in contact with the probe. The cavitation of the fluids causes destruction of adjacent tissue. In this manner, the entire length of the flexible member becomes a working surface that may be utilized for destroying tissue.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.