Methods and apparatus for thermally-induced renal neuromodulation

US8626300B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• MEDTRONIC ARDIAN LUXEMBOURG S.A.R.L. · LU

Inventors

• Denise Demarais · Los Gatos, US
• Andrew Wu · Los Altos Hills, US
• Hanson S. Gifford, III · Woodside, US
• Mark Deem · Mountain View, US
• Mark Gelfand · New York, US
• Howard R. Levin · Teaneck, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 11, 2011
• Grant date: Jan 7, 2014
• Expiry date: Mar 11, 2031

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61N2007/003
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Methods and apparatus are provided for thermally-induced renal neuromodulation. Thermally-induced renal neuromodulation may be achieved via direct and/or via indirect application of thermal energy to heat or cool neural fibers that contribute to renal function, or of vascular structures that feed or perfuse the neural fibers. In some embodiments, parameters of the neural fibers, of non-target tissue, or of the thermal energy delivery element, may be monitored via one or more sensors for controlling the thermally-induced neuromodulation. In some embodiments, protective elements may be provided to reduce a degree of thermal damage induced in the non-target tissues. In some embodiments, thermally-induced renal neuromodulation is achieved via delivery of a pulsed thermal therapy.