Methods and apparatus for pulsed electric field neuromodulation via an intra-to-extravascular approach

US7873417B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Ardian, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Denise Demarais · Los Gatos, US
• Benjamin J. Clark · Redwood City, US
• Nicolas Zadno · Fremont, US
• Erik Thai · San Jose, US
• Hanson S. Gifford, III · Woodside, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 11, 2009
• Grant date: Jan 18, 2011
• Expiry date: Nov 11, 2029

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2018/126
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Methods and apparatus are provided for pulsed electric field neuromodulation via an intra-to-extravascular approach, e.g., to effectuate irreversible electroporation or electrofusion, necrosis and/or inducement of apoptosis, alteration of gene expression, changes in cytokine upregulation and other conditions in target neural fibers. In some embodiments, the ITEV PEF system comprises an intravascular catheter having one or more electrodes configured for intra-to-extravascular placement across a wall of patient's vessel into proximity with target neural fibers. With the electrode(s) passing from an intravascular position to an extravascular position prior to delivery of the PEF, a magnitude of applied voltage or energy delivered via the electrode(s) and necessary to achieve desired neuromodulation may be reduced relative to an intravascular PEF system having one or more electrodes positioned solely intravascularly. The methods and apparatus of the present invention may, for example, be used to modulate one or more target neural fibers that contribute to renal function.