| Patent application number | Description | Published |
|---|
| 20090187180 | Choked Dielectric Loaded Tip Dipole Microwave Antenna - A microwave antenna assembly is disclosed. The antenna assembly includes a feedline having an inner conductor, an outer conductor and an inner insulator disposed therebetween. A radiating portion is also included having an unbalanced dipole antenna including a proximal portion and a distal portion that are of different lengths. The proximal portion includes at least a portion of the inner conductor and the inner insulator and the distal portion includes a conductive member. | 07-23-2009 |
| 20100030206 | Tissue Ablation System With Phase-Controlled Channels - A system for applying energy to tissue via a plurality of channels includes a controller adapted to connect to an energy source, wherein the controller is configured to control a phase relationship between electrical signals in each channel, and a number of energy delivery devices, each energy delivery device operatively coupled to the controller via a corresponding one of the channels. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100079215 | SYSTEM, APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DISSIPATING STANDING WAVE IN A MICROWAVE DELIVERY SYSTEM - A system, apparatus and method for dissipating standing waves in a microwave energy delivery system including a microwave energy source configured to intermittently delivery microwave energy as a periodic microwave signal an energy delivery network configured to transmit the periodic microwave signal and a circuit connected between the microwave energy source and the energy delivery network. The circuit is configured to pass the periodic microwave signal from the microwave energy source to the energy delivery network when the periodic microwave signal is present and to dissipate standing waves when the periodic microwave signal is absent. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100082023 | MICROWAVE SYSTEM CALIBRATION APPARATUS, SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE - A microwave system calibration apparatus including an antenna portion configured to deliver microwave energy to tissue, a transmission line portion configured to receive a microwave energy signal from a microwave source and to selectively deliver the microwave energy signal to the antenna portion and a switching mechanism connected between the antenna portion and the transmission line portion. The transmission line includes an inner conductor having a length, an outer conductor concentrically surrounding the inner conductor along the length and a dielectric material separating the inner and outer conductors. The inner conductor or the outer conductor of the transmission line portion is electrically connected to the antenna. The switching mechanism is configured to electrically disconnect the transmission line portion from the antenna portion in a first condition and further configured to connect the inner conductor to the outer conductor in a second condition. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100082024 | INTERMITTENT MICROWAVE ENERGY DELIVERY SYSTEM - An intermittent microwave energy delivery system for use in testing microwave energy systems and devices and for use in performing medical procedures including a microwave energy source configured to provide a continuous microwave energy signal, an energy delivery network configured to intermittently transmit a portion of the continuous microwave energy signal, a resistive load configured to dissipate the microwave energy signal; and a switching network configured to switch the continuous microwave energy signal between the microwave energy network and the resistive load. The continuous microwave energy signal is time proportioned between the energy delivery network and the resistive load. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100082025 | MICROWAVE ABLATION GENERATOR CONTROL SYSTEM - A microwave energy delivery and measurement system, including a microwave energy source configured to delivery microwave energy to a microwave energy delivery device, a measurement system configured to measure at least one parameter of the microwave energy delivery device and a switching network configured to electrically isolate the microwave energy source and the measurement system. The measurement system is configured to actively measure in real time at least one parameter related to the microwave energy delivery device. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100082083 | MICROWAVE SYSTEM TUNER - A microwave energy delivery and measurement system including a microwave energy source configured to delivery microwave energy, a measurement system, a switching network configured to connect the microwave energy delivery device between the microwave energy source and the measurement system, a tuner connected between the switching network and the microwave energy delivery device and a control system. The tuner adjusts the circuit impendence of the microwave energy delivery device based on a tuner control signal. The control system is configured to receive data from the measurement system, determine an impedance mismatch between the microwave energy delivery device and the microwave energy source and provide the control signal to the tuner. The measurement system includes an analog input configured to receive a first signal related to the energy delivered by the microwave energy source and an analog output configured to produce a second signal configured to drive the microwave energy delivery device. A parameter of the second signal is related to a property of the microwave energy delivery device. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100082084 | MICROWAVE SYSTEM CALIBRATION APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USE - An apparatus for calibrating a microwave energy delivery device including a body, the body defining a chamber portion. The chamber portion is configured to receive a portion of a microwave energy delivery device and the body is configured to absorb energy transmitted by the microwave energy delivery device at a predetermined absorption rate. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100094272 | Antenna Assemblies for Medical Applications - A device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes a helical antenna assembly that includes a helical antenna radiating section having a helical antenna element. The helical antenna assembly is capable of operating in at least one of a first mode of operation for directing energy to a first portion of the target volume of tissue and a second mode of operation for directing energy to a second portion of the target volume of tissue. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100094273 | Antenna Assemblies for Medical Applications - A device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes a monopole antenna assembly that includes a monopole antenna radiating section having a monopole antenna element surrounded by a dielectric material. The monopole antenna assembly also includes a ground plane disposed at a proximal end of the monopole antenna radiating section, wherein the ground plane is configured to direct energy into the target volume of tissue. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100097284 | Choked Dielectric Loaded Tip Dipole Microwave Antenna - A microwave antenna assembly is disclosed. The antenna assembly includes a feedline having an inner conductor, an outer conductor and an inner insulator disposed therebetween and a radiating section coupled to the feedline, the radiating section including a dipole antenna and a tubular dielectric loading disposed about the dipole antenna. | 04-22-2010 |
| 20100217251 | Leaky-Wave Antennas for Medical Applications - A device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes an inner conductor having a length and an outer conductor coaxially surrounding the inner conductor along the length. The outer conductor has a proximal portion and a distal portion. The distal portion of the outer conductor is provided with a number of apertures N defined therein for radiating energy, where N is an integer greater than 1, each aperture having a size and extending at an angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the outer conductor. At least one of the size and the angle of each aperture is varied in relation to the other apertures N−1 such that the energy radiated along the distal portion is substantially uniform. | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100217252 | Leaky-Wave Antennas for Medical Applications - A device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes a proximal portion including a first antenna subassembly extending therethrough, and a distal portion including a second antenna subassembly. The first antenna subassembly includes a leaky-wave antenna assembly having an outer conductor and an inner conductor disposed within the outer conductor. The distal portion of the device is attached to the inner conductor. The outer conductor includes a plurality of radiating apertures defined in a distal portion thereof and is configured for radiating energy substantially uniformly along a longitudinal axis of the proximal portion. | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100234839 | Cooled Dielectrically Buffered Microwave Dipole Antenna - Microwave antenna assemblies incorporating a resilient insulating coupler are described herein. The microwave antenna includes a radiating portion connected by a coaxial feedline to a power generating source, e.g., a generator. Distal and proximal radiating portions of the antenna, which correspond to inner and outer conductors provided by the coaxial feedline, are separated by the resilient insulating coupler. The described coupler includes a proximal threaded portion, and an overmolded insulating portion formed from an elastomeric material. The inner conductor of the coaxial feedline is joined to the threaded portion of the coupler, and is placed under tension to draw together the distal radiating portion, the coupler, and the proximal radiating portion into a single rigid assembly. In use, the resilient coupler provides increased strength and reliability by absorbing mechanical stresses typically encountered during microwave ablation procedures. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100262134 | Frequency Identification for Microwave Ablation Probes - A microwave ablation system is disclosed. The system includes a microwave antenna assembly that includes an identification device configured to store an optimal frequency of the microwave antenna assembly. The system also includes a generator configured to couple to the microwave antenna assembly and to output microwave energy at an operational frequency. The generator is further configured to read the optimal frequency from the identification device and to configure the operational frequency to substantially match the optimal frequency. | 10-14-2010 |
| 20100305559 | Narrow Gauge High Strength Choked Wet Tip Microwave Ablation Antenna - An electromagnetic surgical ablation probe having a coaxial feedline and cooling chamber is disclosed. The disclosed probe includes a dipole antenna arrangement having a radiating section, a distal tip coupled to a distal end of the radiating section, and a ring-like balun short) or choke, which may control a radiation pattern of the probe. A conductive tube disposed coaxially around the balun short includes at least one fluid conduit which provides coolant, such as dionized water, to a cooling chamber defined within the probe. A radiofrequency transparent catheter forms an outer surface of the probe and may include a lubricious coating. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100305561 | Electrosurgical Devices with Directional Radiation Pattern - A device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes an antenna assembly and an elongated body member. The elongated body member includes a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, wherein the proximal and distal end portions define a longitudinal axis. The elongated body member has a chamber defined therein that extends along the longitudinal axis, and a body wall surrounding the chamber. An antenna assembly is disposed in the chamber. The elongated body member also includes an opening in the body wall to allow energy radiated from the antenna assembly to transfer into the target volume of tissue. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100321192 | Microwave Ablation Antenna Radiation Detector - A radiation detector disposed on a microwave antenna assembly is disclosed. The radiation detector includes a receiving antenna adapted to receive errant microwave energy and a rectifier coupled to the receiving antenna that is adapted to rectify at least a portion of the errant microwave energy. A filter is coupled to the rectifier and is adapted to convert the rectified microwave energy into a detection signal. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100321257 | Microwave Ablation Antenna Radiation Detector - A radiation detector is disclosed. The radiation detector is disposed on a microwave antenna assembly. The radiation detector includes a receiving antenna adapted to receive microwave energy. The receiving antenna includes a first tubular antenna member and a second tubular antenna member disposed concentrically about a longitudinal axis defined by the microwave antenna assembly. The detector also includes at least one rectifier coupled to the receiving antenna adapted to rectify at least a portion of the microwave energy and a filter coupled to the at least one rectifier and adapted to convert the rectified microwave energy into a detection signal. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100331834 | Ablation Probe Fixation - An ablation probe fixation apparatus for securing an ablation probe to tissue is disclosed. The ablation probe fixation apparatus includes a base having a top surface and a skin-contacting bottom surface, wherein the base includes an adhesive layer disposed on the skin-contacting bottom surface. The fixation apparatus also includes a fixation member coupled to the top surface of the base. The base and the fixation member include an aperture defined therein for insertion of the ablation probe therethrough. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20110034913 | Directive Window Ablation Antenna with Dielectric Loading - An electrosurgical device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes a coaxial feedline having an inner conductor, an outer conductor coaxially disposed around the inner conductor, and a dielectric material disposed therebetween. An elongated electrically-conductive member is longitudinally disposed at a distal end of the inner conductor. A balun structure is disposed on the outer conductor. The device also includes an electrically-conductive cylinder coaxially disposed around a distal portion of the balun structure, and a dielectric structure disposed substantially adjacent to a distal end of the electrically-conductive cylinder, wherein the dielectric structure longitudinally extends from the distal end of the electrically-conductive cylinder to a distal end of the electrically-conductive member. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110034917 | Electrosurgical Devices having Dielectric Loaded Coaxial Aperture with Distally Positioned Resonant Structure and Method of Manufacturing Same - An electrosurgical device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes a coaxial feedline having an inner conductor, an outer conductor and a dielectric material disposed therebetween. A proximal cylindrical dielectric sleeve is coupled to the inner conductor at a distal end of the coaxial feedline. A distal cylindrical dielectric sleeve is coupled to the inner conductor. First and second dielectric segments are coupled to the inner conductor and disposed between the proximal cylindrical dielectric sleeve and the distal cylindrical dielectric sleeve. The device also includes an elongated shaft overlying the proximal cylindrical dielectric sleeve, the first dielectric segment, the second dielectric segment and the distal cylindrical dielectric sleeve. The elongated shaft includes an opening defined therethrough, wherein the opening is at least partially aligned with the first dielectric segment. A balun structure is disposed on the elongated shaft, at least partially overlying the opening in the elongated shaft. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110040300 | Surface Ablation Antenna with Dielectric Loading - An electrosurgical device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes a coaxial feedline having an inner conductor, an outer conductor coaxially disposed around the inner conductor, and a dielectric material disposed therebetween. An elongated electrically-conductive member is longitudinally disposed at a distal end of the inner conductor; a balun structure is disposed on the outer conductor. An electrically-conductive cylinder is coaxially disposed around a distal portion of the balun structure and a dielectric structure is disposed substantially adjacent to a distal end of the electrically-conductive cylinder and configured to extend to a distal end of the electrically-conductive member. An elongated handle assembly is coaxially disposed around a portion of the outer conductor proximal to the dielectric structure and a shell assembly is disposed at a distal end of the elongated handle assembly. A portion of the shell assembly is configured to extend distally beyond the distal end of the electrically-conductive member. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110071511 | System and Method for Checking High Power Microwave Ablation System Status on Startup - A microwave ablation system includes a generator operable to output energy and an ablation probe coupled to the generator that delivers the energy to a tissue region. The ablation system also includes a controller operable to control the generator and at least one sensor coupled to the ablation probe and the controller that detects an operating parameter of the ablation probe. The controller performs a system check by ramping up an energy output of the generator from a low energy level to a high energy level and monitors an output from the sensor at predetermined intervals of time during the system check to determine an abnormal state. The controller controls the generator to cease the energy output when the controller determines an abnormal state. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110071512 | Tissue Ablation System with Energy Distribution - A microwave ablation system includes an energy source adapted to generate microwave energy and a power splitting device having an input adapted to connect to the energy source and a plurality of outputs. The plurality of outputs are configured to be coupled to a corresponding plurality of energy delivery devices. The power splitting device is configured to selectively divide energy provided from the energy source between the plurality of energy devices. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110071582 | Optical Detection of Interrupted Fluid Flow to Ablation Probe - An electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical device adapted to direct energy to tissue and a fluid path leading to the electrosurgical device. The system also includes an optical sensor unit operably associated with the fluid path. The optical sensor unit includes a light-emitting element to generate light output and a light-receiving element to collect light outputted from the light-emitting element. The light-emitting element and the light-receiving element are disposed such that light output from the light-emitting element passes through the fluid path to the light-receiving element. The optical sensor unit is capable of detecting an air bubble in the fluid path passing through the optical sensor unit using a sensed characteristic of light collected at the light-receiving element. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110077633 | Electrosurgical Devices, Directional Reflector Assemblies Coupleable Thereto, and Electrosurgical Systems Including Same - A directional reflector assembly includes a tubular shaft having a proximal end and a distal end and adapted to operably engage an electrosurgical ablation probe, and a conical aperture having a proximal open apex joined to a distal end of the tubular shaft, and a distal open base, wherein an interior volume of the tubular shaft is open to the conical aperture. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110077634 | Microwave Surface Ablation Using Conical Probe - An electromagnetic surgical ablation probe having a conical hood reflector and method of manufacture thereof is disclosed. The disclosed probe includes a shaft assembly that has a coaxial feedline core having an inner conductor and an outer conductor separated by an insulating layer. A tubular catheter is disposed coaxially around the feedline and is configured to deliver coolant, such as saline or deionized water, to a coolant chamber at a distal end formed within the conical reflector. A radiating section disposed within the conical reflector may have a conical, cylindrical, or other suitable shape. A membrane disposed across a distal opening of the conical reflector seals coolant within the coolant chamber, and may conform to tissue contours during use. A resilient aperture may be included at the periphery of the conical hood. The shaft assembly may include an angled section, an adjustable section, and, additionally or alternatively, a malleable section. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110077636 | Management of Voltage Standing Wave Ratio at Skin Surface During Microwave Ablation - A dielectric spacer for use during microwave ablation of tissue is disclosed. The dielectric spacer includes a housing having a predetermined thickness and a skin-contacting bottom surface. The housing is configured to be filled with a dielectric material having a predetermined dielectric permittivity. The housing is further configured to be placed on the tissue in proximity with at least one microwave antenna assembly, wherein the thickness and the dielectric permittivity are configured to shift a maximum voltage standing wave ratio of the at least one microwave antenna assembly. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110077637 | Flow Rate Monitor for Fluid Cooled Microwave Ablation Probe - A microwave ablation system includes an antenna assembly configured to deliver microwave energy from a power source to tissue and a coolant source operably coupled to the power source and configured to selectively provide fluid to the antenna assembly via a fluid path. The system also includes a controller operably coupled to the power source and a sensor operably coupled to the fluid path and the controller. The sensor is configured to detect fluid flow through the fluid path and the controller is configured to control the energy source based on the detected fluid flow. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110077638 | Flow Rate Monitor For Fluid Cooled Microwave Ablation Probe - A microwave ablation system includes an antenna assembly configured to deliver microwave energy from a power source to tissue and a coolant source operably coupled to the power source and configured to selectively provide fluid to the antenna assembly via a fluid path. The system also includes a controller operably coupled to the power source and a sensor operably coupled to the fluid path and the controller. The sensor is configured to detect fluid flow through the fluid path and the controller is configured to control the energy source based on the detected fluid flow. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110077639 | Flow Rate Monitor for Fluid Cooled Microwave Ablation Probe - A microwave ablation system includes a generator operable to output energy and an ablation probe coupled to the generator that delivers the energy to a tissue region. The ablation system also includes a controller operable to control the generator and at least one sensor coupled to the ablation probe and the controller that detects an operating parameter of the ablation probe. The controller performs a system check by ramping up an energy output of the generator from a low energy level to a high energy level and monitors an output from the sensor at predetermined intervals of time during the system check to determine an abnormal state. The controller controls the generator to cease the energy output when the controller determines an abnormal state. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110098695 | System and Method for Monitoring Ablation Size - A system for monitoring ablation size is provided and includes a power source including a microprocessor for executing at least one control algorithm. A microwave antenna is configured to deliver microwave energy from the power source to tissue to form an ablation zone. An ablation zone control module is in operative communication with memory associated with the power source. The memory includes one or more data look-up tables including one or more electrical parameter associated with the microwave antenna. The one or more electrical parameters corresponding to an ablation zone having a radius. The one or more electrical parameters include a threshold value, wherein when the threshold value is met the power source is adjusted to form an ablation zone of suitable proportion. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110098696 | System and Method for Monitoring Ablation Size - A system for monitoring ablation size is provided and includes a power source including a microprocessor for executing at least one control algorithm. A microwave antenna is configured to deliver microwave energy from the power source to tissue to form an ablation zone. A radiation detection device is operably disposed on the microwave antenna. The radiation detection device is configured to generate a voltage corresponding to a radius of the ablation zone, wherein the radiation detection device is in operative communication with at least one module associated with the power source. The at least one module triggers a signal when a predetermined threshold voltage is measured corresponding to the radius of the ablation zone. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110098697 | System and Method for Monitoring Ablation Size - A system for monitoring ablation size is provided and includes a power source including a microprocessor for executing at least one control algorithm. A microwave antenna is configured to deliver microwave energy from the power source to tissue to form an ablation zone. An ablation zone control module is in operative communication with a memory associated with the power source. The memory includes one or more data look-up tables including data pertaining to a control curve varying over time and being representative of one or more electrical parameters associated with the microwave antenna. Points along the control curve correspond to a value of the electrical parameters and the ablation zone control module triggers a signal when a predetermined threshold value of the electrical parameter(s) is measured corresponding to the radius of the ablation zone. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110152853 | Microwave Ablation System With Dielectric Temperature Probe - An electromagnetic surgical ablation system having a generator adapted to selectively provide surgical ablation energy to an ablation probe, and methods of operating same, are disclosed. The system includes a controller operatively coupled to the generator, and a tissue sensor probe operatively coupled to the controller. The tissue sensor provides a tissue temperature and at least one tissue dielectric property to the controller. During an electromagnetic tissue ablation procedure, the controller monitors tissue temperature and the at least one tissue dielectric property to determine tissue status, and to activate and deactivate the generator in accordance therewith. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110172659 | Ablation Device With User Interface at Device Handle, System Including Same, and Method of Ablating Tissue Using Same - An ablation device includes a handle assembly including a distal end, an ablation probe extending distally from the distal end of the handle assembly, and a user interface disposed at the handle assembly. The ablation probe is operably coupled to the user interface. The user interface includes a controller unit, a power on/off switch operably coupled to the controller unit, and at least one detector capable of generating an electrical signal. The controller is in communication with the at least one detector and configured to override operation of the power on/off switch in response to the electrical signal generated by the at least one detector. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110184403 | System and Method for Monitoring Ablation Size - A system for monitoring ablation size is provided. The system includes a power source including a microprocessor for executing one or more control algorithms. A microwave antenna is configured to deliver microwave energy from the power source to tissue to form an ablation zone. A plurality of spaced-apart electrodes is operably disposed along a length of the microwave antenna. The plurality of spaced-apart electrodes is disposed in electrical communication with one another and each of the plurality of spaced-apart electrodes has a threshold impedance associated therewith corresponding to the radius of the ablation zone. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110208177 | Ablation Devices With Dual Operating Frequencies, Systems Including Same, and Methods of Adjusting Ablation Volume Using Same - An ablation device includes a feedline including an inner conductor having a distal end, an outer conductor coaxially disposed around the inner conductor, and a dielectric material disposed therebetween, an elongated electrically-conductive member longitudinally disposed at the distal end of the inner conductor and having a proximal end, a first balun structure disposed over a first portion of the outer conductor and positioned so that a distal end of the first balun structure is located at a first distance from the proximal end of the electrically-conductive member and a second balun structure disposed over a second portion of the outer conductor and positioned so that a distal end of the second balun structure is located at a second distance from the proximal end of the electrically-conductive member. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110208180 | System and Method for Monitoring Ablation Size - A system for monitoring ablation size is provided. The system includes a power source including a microprocessor for executing at least one control algorithm. A microwave antenna is configured to deliver microwave energy from the power source to tissue to form an ablation zone. A series of thermal sensors is operably disposed adjacent a radiating section of the microwave antenna and extends proximally therefrom. The thermal sensors corresponding to a radius of the ablation zone, wherein each thermal sensor generates a voltage when a predetermined threshold tissue temperature is reached corresponding to the radius of the ablation zone. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110208184 | Bipolar Electrode Probe For Ablation Monitoring - An electromagnetic surgical ablation system having a generator adapted to selectively provide surgical ablation energy to an ablation probe, and methods of operating same, are disclosed. The system includes a controller operatively coupled to the generator, and at least one tissue sensor probe operatively coupled to the controller. The at least one tissue sensor provides a tissue impedance measurement to the controller. A sensor probe may be designated a threshold probe adapted to sense when tissue is sufficiently ablated, or, a critical structure probe adapted to protect an adjacent anatomical structure from undesired ablation. During an electromagnetic tissue ablation procedure, the controller monitors tissue impedance to determine tissue status, to activate an indicator associated therewith, and, additionally or alternatively, to activate and deactivate the generator accordingly. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110213241 | Laparoscopic Port with Microwave Rectifier - A radiation detector disposed on a microwave antenna assembly to receive unintended field exposure in an insufflated abdomen. The radiation detector includes a receiving antenna made up of at least two pieces of metal externally attached to the microwave antenna within the abdomen. The radiation detector is adapted to receive errant microwave energy that resonates in the abdomen. A rectifier is coupled between the two pieces of metal, where the pieces of metal are strips, rings, patches, or other geometric combinations. The rectifier is adapted to rectify at least a portion of the errant microwave energy. A filter is coupled to the rectifier and is adapted to convert the rectified microwave energy into a detection signal. An inflatable stop is located on a distal end of the microwave antenna and the inflatable stop is inflated when inserted within the abdomen. The inflated stop prevents inadvertent removal of the microwave antenna. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110213353 | Tissue Ablation System With Internal And External Radiation Sources - According to one embodiment of the present disclosure a microwave ablation system is disclosed. The microwave ablation system includes an energy source adapted to generate microwave energy and a plurality of energy delivery devices having a first energy delivery device configured to be inserted into tissue and to generate a non-directional ablation volume and a second energy delivery device configured to be positioned relative to the tissue and to generate a directional ablation volume. The system also includes a power dividing device having an input adapted to connect to the energy source and a plurality of outputs configured to be coupled to the plurality of energy delivery devices. The power dividing device is configured to selectively divide energy provided from the energy source between the plurality of energy delivery devices. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110218527 | Microwave Antenna Probe Having a Deployable Ground Plane - A surgical ablation system employing an ablation probe having a deployable ground plane is disclosed. The disclosed system includes a source of ablation energy and a source of electrosurgical energy, and a switching assembly configured to select between ablation and electrosurgical modes. The probe includes a cannula having a shaft slidably disposed therein. The shaft includes a deployable ground plane electrode assembly and a needle electrode disposed at distal end of the shaft. As the shaft is extended distally from the cannula, the ground plane electrode unfolds, and the needle electrode is exposed. Electrosurgical energy is applied to tissue via the needle electrode to facilitate the insertion thereof into tissue. Ablation energy is applied to tissue via the needle electrode to achieve the desired surgical outcome. The shaft, ground plane electrode and needle electrode are retracted into the cannula, and withdrawn from the surgical site. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110238053 | Microwave Surface Coagulator with Retractable Blade - An ablation instrument having an ergonomic handle that includes an actuator adapted to selectively extend and retract a blade that is pivotably mounted within an aperture assembly coupled to the housing by a shaft. The shaft extends distally from the handle and includes a coaxial feedline, a wire conduit disposed along a longitudinal axis of the shaft, and a pull wire disposed within the wire conduit and having a proximal and a distal end, wherein a proximal end of the pull wire is operably coupled to the actuator. The aperture assembly is coupled to a distal end of the shaft and includes a reflector having a closed upper portion, and an open lower portion from which the blade may be extended for use. Also disclosed is an ablation system that includes the above-described ablation instrument, a source of ablation energy, and optionally, a source of coolant for cooling the shaft and aperture assembly. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110282336 | Electrosurgical Devices with Balun Structure for Air Exposure of Antenna Radiating Section and Method of Directing Energy to Tissue Using Same - An energy applicator for directing energy to tissue includes a feedline having an inner conductor, an outer conductor and a dielectric material disposed therebetween, and an antenna assembly having a radiating section operably coupled to the feedline. The energy applicator also includes a first balun structure configured to substantially confine energy to the radiating section when the energy applicator is energized and disposed in tissue, and a second balun structure configured to substantially prevent energy emitted from the radiating section from propagating proximal to the second balun structure along the feedline when the energy applicator is energized but not disposed in tissue. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110295245 | Flow Rate Verification Monitor for Fluid-Cooled Microwave Ablation Probe - A microwave ablation system includes an antenna assembly configured to deliver microwave energy from an energy source to tissue and a coolant source operably coupled to the energy source and configured to selectively provide fluid to the antenna assembly via a fluid path. The system also includes a controller operably coupled to the energy source and a piezoelectric transducer operably coupled to the fluid path to detect a force of fluid flow through the fluid path. The piezoelectric transducer is configured to generate a signal based on the detected force of fluid through the fluid path. The controller is configured to control the energy source output based on the generated signal. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110319880 | Microwave Ground Plane Antenna Probe - An ablation probe having a ground plane is disclosed. The disclosed probe includes an inner conductor coaxially disposed within an outer shield. One or more ground plane(s) oriented substantially transversely to a longitudinal axis of the probe are joined to the outer shield. One or more dielectric(s) may be disposed around the inner conductor or upon a surface of a ground plane. The probe may include a rigid or flexible catheter disposed around the outer shield to define a conduit therebetween to enable the delivery of pressurized fluid to an inflatable balloon disposed around a ground plane. A semicylindrical housing having a circumferential surface and a distal surface may be included. A proximal edge of the circumferential surface of the semicylindrical housing may be joined to a circumferential edge of a ground plane. An opening may be defined in the distal surface of the semicylindrical housing, through which the inner conductor may extend distally. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20120004651 | Microwave Antenna Having a Reactively-Loaded Loop Configuration - A microwave ablation system is provided. The microwave ablation system includes a power source. A microwave antenna is adapted to connect to the power source via a coaxial cable feed including an inner conductor defining a portion of a radiating section of the microwave antenna, an outer conductor and dielectric shielding. The inner conductor loops back around and toward the outer conductor of the coaxial cable feed such that a distal end of the inner conductor is operably disposed adjacent the dielectric shielding. The inner conductor includes one or more reactive components disposed thereon forming a reactively-loaded loop configuration configured to maximize delivery of microwave energy from the power source to tissue such that a desired effect to tissue is achieved. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120004703 | Electrosurgical Generator to Ablation Device Adaptor - An electrosurgical system is provided that includes an electrosurgical generator configured to output a first electrosurgical waveform and a probe configured to deliver a second electrosurgical waveform to tissue. The system also includes an adapter coupled between the electrosurgical generator and the probe and operable to convert the first electrosurgical waveform to the second electrosurgical waveform. The adapter includes a step down transformer configured to convert the first electrosurgical waveform to the second electrosurgical waveform. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120016360 | Dual Antenna Assembly with User-Controlled Phase Shifting - An electrosurgical ablation system includes an energy source adapted to supply energy to an energy delivery device. The energy delivery device includes a handle assembly configured to couple a pair of antennas extending from a distal end thereof to the energy source for application of energy to tissue. A power splitting device is operatively associated with the handle assembly and has an input adapted to connect to the energy source and a pair of output channels operably coupled to the respective pair of antennas. A phase shifter is operatively associated with the handle assembly and is operably coupled to the pair of output channels. The phase shifter is configured to selectively shift a phase relationship between the pair of output channels. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120046656 | Ablation Devices Utilizing Exothermic Chemical Reactions, System Including Same, and Methods of Ablating Tissue Using Same - An ablation device includes a handle assembly including a distal end and a probe extending distally from the distal end of the handle assembly. The probe includes a heat-transfer portion and at least one fluid-flow path in fluid communication with the heat-transfer portion. The handle assembly includes at least one fluid reservoir in fluid communication with the at least one fluid-flow path and at least one apparatus configured to cause fluid flow between the at least one fluid reservoir and the heat-transfer portion. The probe is configured to apply thermal energy released by an exothermic chemical reaction that occurs when fluid from the at least one fluid reservoir is caused to flow to the heat-transfer portion. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120110834 | Cooled Dielectrically Buffered Microwave Dipole Antenna - Microwave antenna assemblies incorporating a resilient insulating coupler are described herein. The microwave antenna includes a radiating portion connected by a coaxial feedline to a power generating source, e.g., a generator. Distal and proximal radiating portions of the antenna, which correspond to inner and outer conductors provided by the coaxial feedline, are separated by the resilient insulating coupler. The described coupler includes a proximal threaded portion, and an overmolded insulating portion formed from an elastomeric material. The inner conductor of the coaxial feedline is joined to the threaded portion of the coupler, and is placed under tension to draw together the distal radiating portion, the coupler, and the proximal radiating portion into a single rigid assembly. In use, the resilient coupler provides increased strength and reliability by absorbing mechanical stresses typically encountered during microwave ablation procedures. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120123403 | Apparatus, System and Method for Performing an Electrosurgical Procedure - An apparatus for performing a microwave ablation procedure is provided. The apparatus includes a catheter including an open proximal end and a closed distal end configured to percutaneously access tissue. A directional microwave antenna probe adapted to connect to a source of microwave energy selectively couples to the catheter. The directional microwave antenna is rotatable within the catheter for directing the emission of microwave energy therefrom to tissue | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120161786 | Microwave Field-Detecting Needle Assemblies, Methods of Manufacturing Same, Methods of Adjusting an Ablation Field Radiating into Tissue Using Same, and Systems Including Same - A microwave field-detecting needle assembly includes a needle assembly. The needle assembly includes a distal portion, a proximal portion, and a junction member disposed between the distal portion and the proximal portion. The junction member includes a recess defined therein. The needle assembly also includes a rectifier element disposed in the recess. The rectifier element includes a first terminal electrically coupled to the distal portion and a second terminal electrically coupled to the proximal portion. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120165806 | Microwave Field-Detecting Needle Assemblies, Methods of Manufacturing Same, Methods of Adjusting an Ablation Field Radiating into Tissue using Same, and Systems Including Same - A method of adjusting an ablation field radiating into tissue includes the initial steps of providing an energy applicator and providing one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies. Each microwave field-detecting needle assembly includes one or more rectifier elements capable of detecting microwave field intensity via rectification. The method includes the steps of positioning the energy applicator and the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies in tissue, transmitting energy from an energy source through the energy applicator to generate an ablation field radiating about at least a portion of the energy applicator into tissue, and adjusting the ablation field radiating about at least the portion of the energy applicator into tissue based on at least one electrical signal transmitted by the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120172860 | Energy-Delivery Devices with Flexible Fluid-Cooled Shaft, Inflow/Outflow Junctions Suitable for Use with Same, and Systems Including Same - An energy-delivery device suitable for delivery of energy to tissue includes an antenna assembly, a chamber defined about the antenna assembly, and a cable having a proximal end suitable for connection to an electrosurgical energy source. The energy-delivery device also includes a flexible, fluid-cooled shaft coupled in fluid communication with the chamber. The flexible, fluid-cooled shaft is configured to contain a length of the cable therein and adapted to remove heat along the length of the cable during delivery of energy to the antenna assembly. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120172861 | Energy-Delivery Devices with Flexible Fluid-Cooled Shaft, Inflow/Outflow Junctions Suitable for Use with Same, and Systems Including Same - An energy-delivery device suitable for delivery of energy to tissue includes an antenna assembly, a chamber defined about the antenna assembly, and a cable having a proximal end suitable for connection to an electrosurgical energy source. The energy-delivery device also includes a flexible, fluid-cooled shaft coupled in fluid communication with the chamber. The flexible, fluid-cooled shaft is configured to contain a length of the cable therein and adapted to remove heat along the length of the cable during delivery of energy to the antenna assembly. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120172862 | Energy-Delivery Devices with Flexible Fluid-Cooled Shaft, Inflow/Outflow Junctions Suitable for Use with Same, and Systems Including Same - An energy-delivery device suitable for delivery of energy to tissue includes an antenna assembly, a chamber defined about the antenna assembly, and a cable having a proximal end suitable for connection to an electrosurgical energy source. The energy-delivery device also includes a flexible, fluid-cooled shaft coupled in fluid communication with the chamber. The flexible, fluid-cooled shaft is configured to contain a length of the cable therein and adapted to remove heat along the length of the cable during delivery of energy to the antenna assembly. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120172863 | Energy-Delivery Devices with Flexible Fluid-Cooled Shaft, Inflow/Outflow Junctions Suitable for Use with Same, and Systems Including Same - An energy-delivery device suitable for delivery of energy to tissue includes an antenna assembly, a chamber defined about the antenna assembly, and a cable having a proximal end suitable for connection to an electrosurgical energy source. The energy-delivery device also includes a flexible, fluid-cooled shaft coupled in fluid communication with the chamber. The flexible, fluid-cooled shaft is configured to contain a length of the cable therein and adapted to remove heat along the length of the cable during delivery of energy to the antenna assembly. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120194409 | Choked Dielectric Loaded Tip Dipole Microwave Antenna - A microwave antenna assembly is disclosed. The antenna assembly includes a feedline having an inner conductor, an outer conductor and an inner insulator disposed therebetween. A radiating portion is also included having an unbalanced dipole antenna including a proximal portion and a distal portion that are of different lengths. The proximal portion includes at least a portion of the inner conductor and the inner insulator and the distal portion includes a conductive member. | 08-02-2012 |
| 20120203217 | System and Method for Ablation Procedure Monitoring Using Electrodes - A microwave ablation system includes an antenna assembly configured to deliver microwave energy from a power source to tissue. One or more electrodes are disposed on the antenna assembly and are configured to be positioned relative to tissue upon insertion of the antenna assembly into tissue. The one or more electrodes are configured to generate a feedback signal in response to an electrical signal supplied thereto from the power source. The feedback signal corresponds to the proximity of tissue relative to the at least one electrode and is configured to be compared to a predetermined parameter to determine a depth of the insertion of the antenna assembly into tissue. The power source is configured to control the delivery of microwave energy to the antenna assembly based on the comparison. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120203220 | Tissue Dissectors - A tissue dissector is provided. The tissue dissector includes a cannula and an introducer coaxially coupled to the cannula and movable therein from a retracted position to an extended position. An introducer is coaxially coupleable to the cannula and movable therein from a retracted position to an extended position. The introducer including a generally annular lumen disposed in fluid communication with an inflation port operably disposed on the introducer and in fluid communication with an inflatable balloon that couples to the introducer. The inflatable balloon is movable from a deflated condition for positioning the introducer adjacent target tissue, to an inflated condition for separating the target tissue from nearby tissue and for providing a barrier therebetween such that the nearby tissue is not affected during the electrosurgical procedure. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120215103 | Energy-Delivery Device Including Ultrasound Transducer Array and Phased Antenna Array - A medical device suitable for delivery of energy to tissue includes a housing, a phased antenna array disposed within the housing, and a user-interface coupled to the housing. The user-interface is adapted to enable a user to selectively adjust the radiation pattern of electromagnetic energy delivered into a tissue region by the phased antenna array. The medical device also includes an ultrasound transducer array disposed within the housing. The ultrasound transducer array is configured to acquire data representative of the tissue region during energy delivery into the tissue region by the phased antenna array. | 08-23-2012 |
| 20120215104 | ENERGY-DELIVERY DEVICE INCLUDING ULTRASOUND TRANSDUCER ARRAY AND PHASED ANTENNA ARRAY, AND METHODS OF ADJUSTING AN ABLATION FIELD RADIATING INTO TISSUE USING SAME - A method of adjusting an ablation field radiating into tissue includes the initial step of providing a handheld device including a phased antenna array and an ultrasound transducer array. The method includes the steps of positioning a tissue-contact surface of the handheld device adjacent to tissue, activating the phased antenna array to deliver energy through the tissue-contact surface to generate an ablation field in targeted tissue, activating the ultrasound transducer array to acquire ultrasound image data representative of the targeted tissue during energy delivery into the targeted tissue by the phased antenna array, and selectively steering the focal point of energy delivery in tissue to adjust the ablation field radiating into tissue. | 08-23-2012 |
| 20120232544 | SYSTEMS FOR THERMAL-FEEDBACK-CONTROLLED RATE OF FLUID FLOW TO FLUID-COOLED ANTENNA ASSEMBLY AND METHODS OF DIRECTING ENERGY TO TISSUE USING SAME - A method of directing energy to tissue using a fluid-cooled antenna assembly includes the initial step of providing an energy applicator. The energy applicator includes an antenna assembly and a hub providing at least one coolant connection to the energy applicator. The method also includes the steps of providing a coolant supply system including a fluid-flow path fluidly-coupled to the hub for providing fluid flow to the energy applicator, positioning the energy applicator in tissue for the delivery of energy to tissue when the antenna assembly is energized, and providing a thermal-feedback-controlled rate of fluid flow to the antenna assembly when energized using a feedback control system operably-coupled to a flow-control device disposed in fluid communication with the fluid-flow path. | 09-13-2012 |
| 20120232549 | SYSTEMS FOR THERMAL-FEEDBACK-CONTROLLED RATE OF FLUID FLOW TO FLUID-COOLED ANTENNA ASSEMBLY AND METHODS OF DIRECTING ENERGY TO TISSUE USING SAME - An electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical device adapted to direct energy to tissue, one or more temperature sensors associated with the electrosurgical device, a fluid-flow path leading to the electrosurgical device, and a flow-control device disposed in fluid communication with the fluid-flow path. The system also includes a processor unit communicatively-coupled to the one or more temperature sensors and communicatively-coupled to the flow-control device. The processor unit is configured to control the flow-control device based on determination of a desired fluid-flow rate using one or more electrical signals outputted from the one or more temperature sensors. | 09-13-2012 |
| 20120239024 | Energy-Based Ablation Completion Algorithm - An electrosurgical generator is disclosed. The generator includes sensor circuitry configured to measure voltage and current delivered to tissue and a controller configured to measure time of energy delivery to tissue and to calculate energy delivered to tissue, the controller further configured to estimate a size of an ablation volume as a function of energy delivered to tissue and time and to calculate a growth rate of the ablation volume based on the estimated size. | 09-20-2012 |
| 20120259324 | Microwave Tissue Dissection and Coagulation - An surgical instrument configured to concurrently dissect and coagulate tissue. In an embodiment, the surgical instrument comprises a handle and a shaft extending distally from the handle. The shaft includes an outer hypotube, a lumen coaxially-disposed within the hypotube and extending beyond a distal end thereof, a coaxial feedline coaxially-disposed within the lumen, and having an inner conductor and an outer conductor disposed coaxially about the inner conductor, and a coolant tube coaxially-disposed between the lumen and the coaxial feedline to form an inflow conduit and an outflow conduit. The instrument further includes a dissecting head assembly coupled to a distal end of the shaft. The dissecting head assembly includes a dielectric core having a substantially planar radiating surface and at least one non-radiating surface, a reflective coating disposed on the at least one non-radiating surface of the dielectric core, and a blade extending from the radiating surface. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120259326 | FLEXIBLE MICROWAVE CATHETERS FOR NATURAL OR ARTIFICIAL LUMENS - A method for forming a resonating structure within a body lumen, the method including advancing a flexible microwave catheter into a body lumen of a patient, the flexible microwave catheter including a radiating portion at the distal end of the flexible microwave catheter, the radiating portion configured to receive microwave energy, and at least one centering device proximate the radiating portion configured to deploy radially outward from the flexible microwave catheter; positioning the radiating portion near tissue of interest; deploying the at least one centering device radially outward from the flexible microwave catheter within the body lumen such that a longitudinal axis of the radiating portion is substantially parallel with and at a fixed distance from a longitudinal axis of the body lumen near the targeted tissue; and delivering microwave energy to the radiating portion such that a circumferentially balanced resonating structure is formed with the body lumen. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120259328 | Leaky-Wave Antennas for Medical Applications - A device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes a proximal portion including a first antenna assembly extending therethrough, and a distal portion including a second antenna assembly. The first antenna assembly includes a leaky-wave antenna assembly having an outer conductor and an inner conductor disposed within the outer conductor. The distal portion of the device is attached to the inner conductor. The outer conductor includes a plurality of radiating apertures defined in a distal portion thereof and is configured for radiating energy substantially uniformly along a longitudinal axis of the proximal portion. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120277738 | LEAKY-WAVE ANTENNAS FOR MEDICAL APPLICATIONS - A device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes an inner conductor having a length and an outer conductor coaxially surrounding the inner conductor along the length. The outer conductor has a proximal portion and a distal portion. The distal portion of the outer conductor is provided with a number of apertures N defined therein for radiating energy, where N is an integer greater than 1, each aperture having a size and extending at an angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the outer conductor. At least one of the size and the angle of each aperture is varied in relation to the other apertures N−1 such that the energy radiated along the distal portion is substantially uniform. | 11-01-2012 |
| 20120303014 | ELECTROSURGICAL DEVICES WITH DIRECTIONAL RADIATION PATTERN - A device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes an antenna assembly and an elongated body member. The elongated body member includes a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, wherein the proximal and distal end portions define a longitudinal axis. The elongated body member has a chamber defined therein that extends along the longitudinal axis, and a body wall surrounding | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120303017 | MICROWAVE ABLATION GENERATOR CONTROL SYSTEM - A microwave energy delivery and measurement system, including a microwave energy source configured to delivery microwave energy to a microwave energy delivery device, a measurement system configured to measure at least one parameter of the microwave energy delivery device and a switching network configured to electrically isolate the microwave energy source and the measurement system. The measurement system is configured to actively measure in real time at least one parameter related to the microwave energy delivery device. | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120303018 | Tissue Dissectors - A tissue dissector is provided. The tissue dissector includes an introducer including a lumen extending along a length thereof and defining a longitudinal axis therethrough. The introducer configured for placement adjacent target tissue. A shaft operably coupled to the introducer is deployable from a distal end thereof and includes a proximal end for approximating the distal end of the shaft adjacent target tissue. The distal end of the shaft is movable from a non-expanded configuration to an expanded configuration for separating target tissue from neighboring tissue. | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120310228 | Modified Wet Tip Antenna Design - A microwave antenna including a feedline, a radiating section, an inflow hypotube, a puck, a transition collar and a sleeve. The feedline includes a coaxial cable including an inner and outer conductor, and a dielectric disposed therebetween. The radiating section includes a dipole antenna coupled to the feedline and a trocar coupled to the distal end of the dipole antenna. The inflow hypotube is disposed around the outer conductor and configured to supply fluid to the radiating portion. The puck includes at least two ribs with inflow slots defined between two adjacent ribs. The transition collar is coupled to the distal end of the inflow hypotube and the first end of the puck. The transition collar includes at least two outflow slots configured to receive fluid from a distal end of the inflow hypotube and to transition the fluid from the outflow slots to a distal end of the radiating section. The sleeve overlays the two outflow slots of the transition collar, the puck and at least the distal portion of the radiating section. The sleeve forms a fluid-tight seal with the transition collar proximal the outflow slots and defines a first gap for transitioning the fluid to exit the outflow slots of the transition collar to the distal end of the radiating section. | 12-06-2012 |
| 20120330307 | Shaped Electrode Bipolar Resection Apparatus, System and Methods of Use - An electrosurgical instrument is provided and includes a housing configured to connect to a source of bipolar electrosurgical energy and an electrode body coupled to the elongated housing. The electrode body includes an electrode face, first and second bipolar electrodes and a blade. The electrode face is formed on the distal end of the electrode body and includes a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis therethrough. The first and second electrodes have a leading edge and a trailing edge, are formed on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis and connect to opposed electrical potentials. The blade is positioned between the electrodes with at least a portion of the blade extending beyond the electrode face. | 12-27-2012 |
| 20130053695 | ENERGY-DELIVERY DEVICE INCLUDING ULTRASOUND TRANSDUCER ARRAY AND PHASED ANTENNA ARRAY, AND METHODS OF ADJUSTING AN ABLATION FIELD RADIATING INTO TISSUE USING SAME - A method of adjusting an ablation field radiating into tissue includes the initial step of providing a handheld device including a phased antenna array and an ultrasound transducer array. The method includes the steps of positioning a tissue-contact surface of the handheld device adjacent to tissue, activating the phased antenna array to deliver energy through the tissue-contact surface to generate an ablation field in targeted tissue, activating the ultrasound transducer array to acquire ultrasound image data representative of the targeted tissue during energy delivery into the targeted tissue by the phased antenna array, and selectively steering the focal point of energy delivery in tissue to adjust the ablation field radiating into tissue. | 02-28-2013 |
| 20130085488 | NARROW GAUGE HIGH STRENGTH CHOKED WET TIP MICROWAVE ABLATION ANTENNA - An electromagnetic surgical ablation probe having a coaxial feedline and cooling chamber is disclosed. The disclosed probe includes a dipole antenna arrangement having a radiating section, a distal tip coupled to a distal end of the radiating section, and a ring-like balun short, or choke, which may control a radiation pattern of the probe. A conductive tube disposed coaxially around the balun short includes at least one fluid conduit which provides coolant, such as dionized water, to a cooling chamber defined within the probe. A radiofrequency transparent catheter forms an outer surface of the probe and may include a lubricious coating. | 04-04-2013 |
| 20130103025 | DIRECTIVE WINDOW ABLATION ANTENNA WITH DIELECTRIC LOADING - An electrosurgical device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes a coaxial feedline having an inner conductor, an outer conductor coaxially disposed around the inner conductor, and a dielectric material disposed therebetween. An elongated electrically-conductive member is longitudinally disposed at a distal end of the inner conductor. A balun structure is disposed on the outer conductor. The device also includes an electrically-conductive cylinder coaxially disposed around a distal portion of the balun structure, and a dielectric structure disposed substantially adjacent to a distal end of the electrically-conductive cylinder, wherein the dielectric structure longitudinally extends from the distal end of the electrically-conductive cylinder to a distal end of the electrically-conductive member. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130103029 | SURFACE ABLATION ANTENNA WITH DIELECTRIC LOADING - An electrosurgical device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes a coaxial feedline having an inner conductor, an outer conductor coaxially disposed around the inner conductor, and a dielectric material disposed therebetween. An elongated electrically-conductive member is longitudinally disposed at a distal end of the inner conductor; a balun structure is disposed on the outer conductor. An electrically-conductive cylinder is coaxially disposed around a distal portion of the balun structure and a dielectric structure is disposed substantially adjacent to a distal end of the electrically-conductive cylinder and configured to extend to a distal end of the electrically-conductive member. An elongated handle assembly is coaxially disposed around a portion of the outer conductor proximal to the dielectric structure and a shell assembly is disposed at a distal end of the elongated handle assembly. A portion of the shell assembly is configured to extend distally beyond the distal end of the electrically-conductive member. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130150845 | System and Method for Monitoring Ablation Size - A system for monitoring ablation size is provided and includes a power source including a microprocessor for executing at least one control algorithm. A microwave antenna is configured to deliver microwave energy from the power source to tissue to form an ablation zone. An ablation zone control module is in operative communication with a memory associated with the power source. The memory includes one or more data look-up tables including data pertaining to a control curve varying over time and being representative of one or more electrical parameters associated with the microwave antenna. Points along the control curve correspond to a value of the electrical parameters and the ablation zone control module triggers a signal when a predetermined threshold value of the electrical parameter(s) is measured corresponding to the radius of the ablation zone. | 06-13-2013 |
| 20130190749 | OPTICAL DETECTION OF INTERRUPTED FLUID FLOW TO ABLATION PROBE - An electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical device adapted to direct energy to tissue and a fluid path leading to the electrosurgical device. The system also includes an optical sensor unit operably associated with the fluid path. The optical sensor unit includes a light-emitting element to generate light output and a light-receiving element to collect light outputted from the light-emitting element. The light-emitting element and the light-receiving element are disposed such that light output from the light-emitting element passes through the fluid path to the light-receiving element. The optical sensor unit is capable of detecting an air bubble in the fluid path passing through the optical sensor unit using a sensed characteristic of light collected at the light-receiving element. | 07-25-2013 |
| 20130190751 | Electrosurgical Device Having a Multiplexer - An electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical generator configured to provide electrosurgical energy to an electrosurgical device coupled thereto which, in turn, delivers electrosurgical energy to tissue. The electrosurgical device may include a plurality of sensors configured to detect one or more tissue properties and output a detected tissue property signal relating thereto. One or more multiplexers having a plurality of channels are electrically connected to each of the corresponding plurality of sensors. The multiplexer(s) may be configured to receive the detected tissue property signal from each sensor of the plurality of sensors and output at least one output signal along a signal line. The signal line is configured to connect to the electrosurgical generator to control a power output of the electrosurgical generator. A channel select algorithm is configured to automatically select channels from the plurality of channels. | 07-25-2013 |
| 20130192063 | ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY DELIVERY DEVICES INCLUDING AN ENERGY APPLICATOR ARRAY AND ELECTROSURGICAL SYSTEMS INCLUDING SAME - An electrosurgical system for directing energy to tissue includes a generator assembly operable to supply power having a selected phase, amplitude and frequency, and an applicator array assembly. The applicator array assembly includes a shell assembly, a plurality of energy applicators disposed within the shell assembly, and a power divider unit electrically coupled to the generator assembly. The power divider unit is operable to divide power into the applicator array assembly. | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130237980 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING ABLATION SIZE - A system for monitoring ablation size is provided and includes a power source including a microprocessor for executing at least one control algorithm. A microwave antenna is configured to deliver microwave energy from the power source to tissue to form an ablation zone. A radiation detection device is operably disposed on the microwave antenna. The radiation detection device is configured to generate a voltage corresponding to a radius of the ablation zone, wherein the radiation detection device is in operative communication with at least one module associated with the power source. The at least one module triggers a signal when a predetermined threshold voltage is measured corresponding to the radius of the ablation zone. | 09-12-2013 |
| 20130241769 | Microwave Ablation Generator Control System - A microwave energy delivery and measurement system, including a microwave generator and a microwave energy delivery device, for performing medical procedures, and a remote power coupler system for measuring one or more parameters of the microwave energy signal including a remote RF sensor housed in the microwave energy delivery device and a power coupler processer coupled with the processing unit of the microwave energy delivery device. | 09-19-2013 |
| 20130253500 | TISSUE ABLATION SYSTEM WITH INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL RADIATION SOURCES - According to one embodiment of the present disclosure a microwave ablation system is disclosed. The microwave ablation system includes an energy source adapted to generate microwave energy and a plurality of energy delivery devices having a first energy delivery device configured to be inserted into tissue and to generate a non-directional ablation volume and a second energy delivery device configured to be positioned relative to the tissue and to generate a directional ablation volume. The system also includes a power dividing device having an input adapted to connect to the energy source and a plurality of outputs configured to be coupled to the plurality of energy delivery devices. The power dividing device is configured to selectively divide energy provided from the energy source between the plurality of energy delivery devices. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130261620 | Microwave-Shielded Tissue Sensor Probe - A tissue sensor probe and corresponding electromagnetic surgical ablation system are disclosed. The system includes an ablation probe operatively coupled to a generator, a controller operatively coupled to the generator, and a tissue sensor probe operatively coupled to the controller. The tissue sensor probe includes an electrically-conductive enclosure configured to shield a temperature sensor from electromagnetic radiation produced by the ablation probe. At least a portion of the electrically-conductive enclosure is made of a high thermal-conductivity material. A material of high thermal-conductivity is disposed in the electrically-conductive enclosure in thermal association with the thermally-conductive material of the electrically-conductive enclosure. The temperature sensor is disposed in the material of high thermal conductivity so as to electrically isolate the temperature sensor from the enclosure. The temperature sensor provides tissue temperature to the controller, which monitors tissue temperature to determine tissue status and to activate and deactivate the generator based on the tissue status. | 10-03-2013 |
| 20130267946 | Electrosurgical Tissue Ablation Systems Capable of Detecting Excessive Bending of a Probe and Alerting a User - An electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical device, one or more temperature sensors associated with the electrosurgical device, a fluid-flow path leading to the electrosurgical device, and a flow-control device disposed in fluid communication with the fluid-flow path. The electrosurgical device includes a probe for directing energy to tissue. The electrosurgical system includes circuitry for detecting bending of the probe. The circuitry alerts the user of excessive bending by activating an alarm, such as an audible alarm, lighting one or more LEDs or other light sources, tactile feedback, or any other means. The electrosurgical system further includes a processor unit communicatively-coupled to the one or more temperature sensors and communicatively-coupled to the flow-control device. The processor unit is configured to control the flow-control device based on determination of a desired fluid-flow rate using one or more electrical signals outputted from the one or more temperature sensors. | 10-10-2013 |
| 20130296841 | Peripheral Switching Device for Microwave Energy Platforms - An electrosurgical system is provided and includes a power source, a microwave applicator, a switching mechanism and a controller. The power source is configured to generate microwave energy. The microwave applicator is configured to deliver microwave energy from the power source to tissue. The switching mechanism includes a housing having input and output ports. The input port is connectable to the power source and the output port is connectable to the microwave applicator. The housing is configured to house one or more switches therein. The controller is in operative communication with the switching mechanism to toggle the switch from a first state, wherein microwave energy generated by the power source is directed to the microwave applicator to a second state, wherein microwave energy is directed to a resistive load operably coupled to the switching mechanism. | 11-07-2013 |
| 20130317495 | BROADBAND MICROWAVE APPLICATOR - A microwave ablation probe for providing microwave energy to tissue is disclosed. The probe includes a feedline having an inner conductor, an insulating spacer and an outer conductor. The probe also includes a radiation portion having an extruded portion of the inner conductor that is centrally disposed therein. The radiation portion also includes one or more conductive disks disposed on the extruded portion of the inner conductor that defines one or more spaces and a dielectric material disposed within the spaces. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20130317499 | Electrosurgical Instrument - An electrosurgical instrument is provided and includes an elongated housing having proximal and distal ends. The proximal end configured to couple to a source of electrosurgical energy via first and second channels extending along a length of the housing to the distal end thereof. The distal end including a reflector having a dielectric load operably coupled thereto and configured to receive at least a portion of the first conductor therein. In a first mode of operation, electrosurgical energy is transmitted to the first channel and reflected from the reflector to electrosurgically treat tissue. The reflector is configured to receive at least a portion of the second channel therein. In a second mode of operation, electrosurgical energy transmitted to the second channel to dissect tissue. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20130345551 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ENHANCING ULTRASONIC VISIBILITY OF ENERGY-DELIVERY DEVICES WITHIN TISSUE - In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, electrosurgical systems are provided generally including at least one energy-delivery device for delivering energy to tissue when inserted or embedded within tissue. The energy-delivery device can be a tissue ablation device, such as an ablation probe, needle, etc. for ablating tissue as commonly known in the art. The electrosurgical systems include at least one structure and/or operational characteristic for enhancing ultrasonic visibility of the energy-delivery devices within tissue during ultrasonography. | 12-26-2013 |
| 20130345552 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ENHANCING ULTRASONIC VISIBILITY OF ENERGY-DELIVERY DEVICES WITHIN TISSUE - In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, electrosurgical systems are provided generally including at least one energy-delivery device for delivering energy to tissue when inserted or embedded within tissue. The energy-delivery device can be a tissue ablation device, such as an ablation probe, needle, etc. for ablating tissue as commonly known in the art. The electrosurgical systems include at least one structure and/or operational characteristic for enhancing ultrasonic visibility of the energy-delivery devices within tissue during ultrasonography. | 12-26-2013 |
| 20130345553 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ENHANCING ULTRASONIC VISIBILITY OF ENERGY-DELIVERY DEVICES WITHIN TISSUE - In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, electrosurgical systems are provided generally including at least one energy-delivery device for delivering energy to tissue when inserted or embedded within tissue. The energy-delivery device can be a tissue ablation device, such as an ablation probe, needle, etc. for ablating tissue as commonly known in the art. The electrosurgical systems include at least one structure and/or operational characteristic for enhancing ultrasonic visibility of the energy-delivery devices within tissue during ultrasonography. | 12-26-2013 |
| 20130345691 | MICROWAVE THERMOMETRY FOR MICROWAVE ABLATION SYSTEMS - A microwave ablation system incorporates a microwave thermometer that couples to a microwave transmission network connecting a microwave generator to a microwave applicator to measure noise temperature. The noise temperature is processed to separate out components the noise temperature including the noise temperature of the tissue being treated and the noise temperature of the microwave transmission network. The noise temperature may be measured by a radiometer while the microwave generator is generating the microwave signal or during a period when the microwave signal is turned off. The microwave ablation system may be configured as a modular system having one or more thermometry network modules that are connectable between a microwave applicator and a microwave generator. Alternatively, the modular system includes a microwave generator, a microwave applicator, and a microwave cable that incorporate a microwave thermometry network module. | 12-26-2013 |
| 20130345692 | MICROWAVE THERMOMETRY FOR MICROWAVE ABLATION SYSTEMS - A microwave ablation system incorporates a microwave thermometer that couples to a microwave transmission network connecting a microwave generator to a microwave applicator to measure noise temperature. The noise temperature is processed to separate out components the noise temperature including the noise temperature of the tissue being treated and the noise temperature of the microwave transmission network. The noise temperature may be measured by a radiometer while the microwave generator is generating the microwave signal or during a period when the microwave signal is turned off. The microwave ablation system may be configured as a modular system having one or more thermometry network modules that are connectable between a microwave applicator and a microwave generator. Alternatively, the modular system includes a microwave generator, a microwave applicator, and a microwave cable that incorporate a microwave thermometry network module. | 12-26-2013 |
| 20130345693 | MICROWAVE THERMOMETRY FOR MICROWAVE ABLATION SYSTEMS - A microwave ablation system incorporates a microwave thermometer that couples to a microwave transmission network connecting a microwave generator to a microwave applicator to measure noise temperature. The noise temperature is processed to separate out components the noise temperature including the noise temperature of the tissue being treated and the noise temperature of the microwave transmission network. The noise temperature may be measured by a radiometer while the microwave generator is generating the microwave signal or during a period when the microwave signal is turned off. The microwave ablation system may be configured as a modular system having one or more thermometry network modules that are connectable between a microwave applicator and a microwave generator. Alternatively, the modular system includes a microwave generator, a microwave applicator, and a microwave cable that incorporate a microwave thermometry network module. | 12-26-2013 |
| 20130345699 | ABLATION DEVICE HAVING AN EXPANDABLE CHAMBER FOR ANCHORING THE ABLATION DEVICE TO TISSUE - A surgical instrument is provided including a handle assembly, a shaft electrically coupled to the handle assembly and extending therefrom, an electrode assembly electrically coupled to the shaft for transmitting energy to tissue to treat tissue, and a chamber defined in the shaft and positioned proximal a distal end thereof and configured to selectively expand. The expansion of the chamber anchors the surgical instrument to the tissue. | 12-26-2013 |
| 20140000098 | MICROWAVE ANTENNA PROBES AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING MICROWAVE ANTENNA PROBES | 01-02-2014 |
| 20140005655 | ELECTROSURGICAL DEVICES HAVING DIELECTRIC LOADED COAXIAL APERTURE WITH DISTALLY POSITIONED RESONANT STRUCTURE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING SAME | 01-02-2014 |
| 20140005657 | MICROWAVE ANTENNA PROBES | 01-02-2014 |
| 20140021197 | MICROWAVE ABLATION GENERATOR CONTROL SYSTEM - A microwave energy delivery and measurement system, including a microwave energy source configured to delivery microwave energy to a microwave energy delivery device, a measurement system configured to measure at least one parameter of the microwave energy delivery device and a switching network configured to electrically isolate the microwave energy source and the measurement system. The measurement system is configured to actively measure in real time at least one parameter related to the microwave energy delivery device. | 01-23-2014 |
| 20140022245 | MICROWAVE ABLATION SYSTEM AND USER-CONTROLLED ABLATION SIZE AND METHOD OF USE - Disclosed is a system and method for enabling user preview and control of the size and shape of an electromagnetic energy field used in a surgical procedure. The disclosed system includes a selectively activatable source of microwave surgical energy in the range of about 900 mHz to about 5 gHz in operable communication with a graphical user interface and a database. The database is populated with data corresponding to the various surgical probes, such as microwave ablation antenna probes, that may include a probe identifier, the probe diameter, operational frequency of the probe, ablation length of the probe, ablation diameter of the probe, a temporal coefficient, a shape metric, and the like. The probe data is graphically presented on the graphical user interface where the surgeon may interactively view and select an appropriate surgical probe. Three-dimensional views of the probe(s) may be presented allowing the surgeon to interactively rotate the displayed image. | 01-23-2014 |
| 20140031811 | FLEXIBLE MICROWAVE CATHETERS FOR NATURAL OR ARTIFICIAL LUMENS - A microwave delivery device, including a coaxial feedline having an inner conductor, an inner dielectric insulator coaxially disposed about, the inner conductor, and an outer conductor coaxially disposed about, the inner dielectric, and a radiating portion operably coupled to a distal end. The radiating portion includes a radiating portion inner conductor operable coupled to and extending from a distal end of the coaxial feedline inner conductor, a shielding outer conductor helically wrapped about the radiating portion inner conductor and operably coupled to the coaxial feedline outer conductor; and a shielding dielectric positioned between the radiating portion inner conductor and the shielding outer conductor wherein the width of the shielding outer conductor varies according to the longitudinal position thereof along the coaxial feedline inner conductor, and a cap operably coupled to a distal end of the radiating portion inner conductor and the shielding outer conductor to provide an electrical connection therebetween. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140031812 | FLEXIBLE MICROWAVE CATHETERS FOR NATURAL OR ARTIFICIAL LUMENS - A coupler for coupling a flexible coaxial cable, a fluid cooling system and the outer sheath of a catheter, the coupler including a fluid coupler body having a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, a bypass bulb, an outer sheath, and a fluid sealing system housed in the fluid coupler body. The fluid sealing system includes a distal sealing diaphragm and a proximal sealing diaphragm configured to form a fluid-tight seal with the fluid coupler body. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140039485 | FLOW RATE MONITOR FOR FLUID COOLED MICROWAVE ABLATION PROBE - A microwave ablation system includes an antenna assembly configured to deliver microwave energy from a power source to tissue and a coolant source operably coupled to the power source and configured to selectively provide fluid to the antenna assembly via a fluid path. The system also includes a controller operably coupled to the power source and a sensor operably coupled to the fluid path and the controller. The sensor is configured to detect fluid flow through the fluid path and the controller is configured to control the energy source based on the detected fluid flow. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140039487 | FLEXIBLE MICROWAVE CATHETERS FOR NATURAL OR ARTIFICIAL LUMENS - A flexible microwave catheter, including a flexible coaxial cable having an inner conductor, an inner dielectric coaxially disposed about the inner conductor, and an outer conductor coaxially disposed about the inner dielectric, at least one feedpoint defining a microwave radiating portion of the flexible coaxial cable, a mesh structure having a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration and disposed about the microwave radiating portion of the flexible coaxial cable, wherein the mesh structure expands radially outward from the flexible microwave catheter thereby positioning the at least one feedpoint at the radial center of the mesh structure. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140046174 | MICROWAVE ABLATION CATHETER AND METHOD OF UTILIZING THE SAME - A microwave ablation system configured for use in luminal network is provided. The microwave ablation system includes a microwave energy source. A tool for treating tissue is provided with the microwave ablation system. An extended working channel is configured to provide passage for the tool. A locatable guide catheter is positionable through the extended working channel and configured to navigate the extended working channel adjacent the target tissue. The microwave ablation system includes a navigation system that is configured for guiding the tool, extended working channel or the locatable guide through a luminal network following a predetermined determined pathway to the target tissue. One or more imaging modalities may be utilized for confirming placement of the tool within target tissue. | 02-13-2014 |
| 20140046175 | MICROWAVE ABLATION CATHETER AND METHOD OF UTILIZING THE SAME - A microwave ablation system configured for use in luminal network is provided. The microwave ablation system includes a microwave energy source and a tool for treating tissue. An extended working channel is configured to provide passage for the tool. A locatable guide, translatable through the extended working channel, is configured to navigate the extended working channel adjacent a target. | 02-13-2014 |
| 20140046176 | MICROWAVE ABLATION CATHETER AND METHOD OF UTILIZING THE SAME - A method for treating lung tissue of a patient is provided. A pathway to a point of interest in a lung of a patient is generated. An extended working channel is advanced transorally into the lung and along the pathway to the point of interest. The extended working channel is positioned in a substantially fixed orientation at the point interest. A tool is advanced though the extended working channel to the point of interest. The lung tissue is treated at the point of interest. | 02-13-2014 |
| 20140046211 | MICROWAVE ABLATION CATHETER AND METHOD OF UTILIZING THE SAME - A method for treating tissue through a branched luminal network of a patient is provided. A pathway to a point of interest in branched luminal network of a patient is generated. An extended working channel is advanced transorally into the branched luminal network and along the pathway to the point of interest. The extended working channel may be positioned in a substantially fixed orientation at the point interest. A tool is advanced though the extended working channel to the point of interest. Tissue at the point of interest is treated. | 02-13-2014 |
| 20140046315 | MICROWAVE ABLATION CATHETER AND METHOD OF UTILIZING THE SAME - A microwave ablation catheter is provided. The microwave ablation catheter includes a coaxial cable connected at its proximal end to a microwave energy source and at its distal end to a distal radiating section. The coaxial cable includes inner and outer conductors and a dielectric positioned therebetween. The inner conductor extends distally past the outer conductor and is in sealed engagement with the distal radiating section. A balun is formed in part from a conductive material electrically connected to the outer conductor of the coaxial cable and extends along at least a portion of the coaxial cable. The conductive material has a braided configuration and is covered by at least one insulative material. | 02-13-2014 |
| 20140046316 | MICROWAVE ABLATION CATHETER AND METHOD OF UTILIZING THE SAME - A microwave ablation system configured for use in luminal network is provided. The microwave ablation system includes a microwave energy source and a tool for treating tissue. An extended working channel is configured to provide passage for the tool. A locatable guide, translatable through the extended working channel, is configured to navigate the extended working channel adjacent a target. | 02-13-2014 |
| 20140046318 | MICROWAVE ABLATION ANTENNA RADIATION DETECTOR - A radiation detector disposed on a microwave antenna assembly is disclosed. The radiation detector includes a receiving antenna adapted to receive errant microwave energy and a rectifier coupled to the receiving antenna that is adapted to rectify at least a portion of the errant microwave energy. A filter is coupled to the rectifier and is adapted to convert the rectified microwave energy into a detection signal. | 02-13-2014 |
| 20140052124 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING ABLATION SIZE - A system for monitoring ablation size is provided and includes a power source including a microprocessor for executing at least one control algorithm. A microwave antenna is configured to deliver microwave energy from the power source to tissue to form an ablation zone. An ablation zone control module is in operative communication with memory associated with the power source. The memory includes one or more data look-up tables including one or more electrical parameter associated with the microwave antenna. The one or more electrical parameters corresponding to an ablation zone having a radius. The one or more electrical parameters include a threshold value, wherein when the threshold value is met the power source is adjusted to form an ablation zone of suitable proportion. | 02-20-2014 |
| 20140058378 | BIPOLAR ELECTRODE PROBE FOR ABLATION MONITORING - An electromagnetic surgical ablation system having a generator adapted to selectively provide surgical ablative energy to an ablation probe, and methods of operating same, are disclosed. The system includes a controller operatively coupled to the generator, and at least one tissue sensor probe operatively coupled to the controller. The at least one tissue sensor provides a tissue impedance measurement to the controller. A sensor probe may be designated a threshold probe adapted to sense when tissue is sufficiently ablated, or, a critical structure probe adapted to protect an adjacent anatomical structure from undesired ablation. During an electromagnetic tissue ablation procedure, the controller monitors tissue impedance to determine tissue status, to activate an indicator associated therewith, and, additionally or alternatively, to activate and deactivate the generator accordingly. | 02-27-2014 |
| 20140058379 | FLOW RATE MONITOR FOR FLUID COOLED MICROWAVE ABLATION PROBE - A microwave ablation system includes an antenna assembly configured to deliver microwave energy from a power source to tissue and a coolant source operably coupled to the power source and configured to selectively provide fluid to the antenna assembly via a fluid path. The system also includes a controller operably coupled to the power source and a sensor operably coupled to the fluid path and the controller. The sensor is configured to detect fluid flow through the fluid path and the controller is configured to control the energy source based on the detected fluid flow. | 02-27-2014 |
| 20140094788 | THERMAL ABLATION PROBE FOR A MEDICAL DEVICE - A thermal ablation probe is described having one or more sensors for sensing at least one tissue parameter, such as temperature, fluctuation in temperature change, and/or rate of temperature change. The thermal ablation probe includes an elongated shaft and a head portion at a distal end of the elongated shaft. The head portion includes a sensing system having the one or more sensors for sensing the at least one tissue parameter. The head portion further includes one or more antennas configured to apply energy to tissue. The proximal end of the thermal ablation probe is configured for removable engagement with a thermal ablation system. The one or more sensors of the sensing system form at least one thermal ablation probe array or sensing platform. The thermal ablation probe array(s) can be in operative communication with a control system of the thermal ablation system for controlling the operation of the thermal ablation system in accordance with the at least one tissue parameter. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140094789 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR OPTICAL DETECTION OF TISSUE CONTACT - An electrosurgical system includes an energy applicator adapted to direct energy to tissue, an electrosurgical power generating source, and a surface-contact detection device. The surface-contact detection device is operably associated with the energy applicator. The surface-contact detection device is communicatively-coupled to the electrosurgical power generating source. The surface-contact detection device includes at least one optical transmitter to generate optical signals, a lens member configured to reflect optical signals generated by the optical transmitter when the lens member is disposed in contact with tissue, and at least one optical receiver to receive optical signals reflected by the lens member. The electrosurgical power generating source is adapted to transmit energy to the energy applicator when it is determined that the lens member is disposed in contact with tissue. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140094797 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR OPTICAL DETECTION OF TISSUE CONTACT - A method of directing energy to tissue includes the initial step of positioning an energy applicator for delivery of energy to target tissue. The energy applicator is provided with a surface-contact detection device including one or more optical transmitters and one or more optical receivers. The energy applicator is operably associated with an electrosurgical power generating source. The method also includes the steps of determining whether a radiating portion of the energy applicator is disposed in contact with the target tissue based on a determination of whether optical signals generated by the one or more optical transmitters result in reflected optical signals received at the one or more optical receivers, and if it is determined that the radiating portion of the energy applicator is disposed in contact with tissue, transmitting energy from the electrosurgical power generating source through the radiating portion to the target tissue. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140142431 | ENERGY-DELIVERY DEVICE INCLUDING ULTRASOUND TRANSDUCER ARRAY AND PHASED ANTENNA ARRAY, AND METHODS OF ADJUSTING AN ABLATION FIELD RADIATING INTO TISSUE USING SAME - A method of adjusting an ablation field radiating into tissue includes the initial step of providing a handheld device including a phased antenna array and an ultrasound transducer array. The method includes the steps of positioning a tissue-contact surface of the handheld device adjacent to tissue, activating the phased antenna array to deliver energy through the tissue-contact surface to generate an ablation field in targeted tissue, activating the ultrasound transducer array to acquire ultrasound image data representative of the targeted tissue during energy delivery into the targeted tissue by the phased antenna array, and selectively steering the focal point of energy delivery in tissue to adjust the ablation field radiating into tissue. | 05-22-2014 |
| 20140180269 | MICROWAVE ANTENNA HAVING A REACTIVELY-LOADED LOOP CONFIGURATION - A microwave ablation system is provided. The microwave ablation system includes a power source. A microwave antenna is adapted to connect to the power source via a coaxial cable feed including an inner conductor defining a portion of a radiating section of the microwave antenna, an outer conductor and dielectric shielding. The inner conductor loops back around and toward the outer conductor of the coaxial cable feed such that a distal end of the inner conductor is operably disposed adjacent the dielectric shielding. The inner conductor includes one or more reactive components disposed thereon forming a reactively-loaded loop configuration configured to maximize delivery of microwave energy from the power source to tissue such that a desired effect to tissue is achieved. | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140180270 | LEAKY-WAVE ANTENNAS FOR MEDICAL APPLICATIONS - A device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes an inner conductor having a length and an outer conductor coaxially surrounding the inner conductor along the length. The outer conductor has a proximal portion and a distal portion. The distal portion of the outer conductor is provided with a number of apertures N defined therein for radiating energy, where N is an integer greater than 1, each aperture having a size and extending at an angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the outer conductor. At least one of the size and the angle of each aperture is varied in relation to the other apertures N−1 such that the energy radiated along the distal portion is substantially uniform. | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140214017 | ABLATION DEVICES UTILIZING EXOTHERMIC CHEMICAL REACTIONS, SYSTEM INCLUDING SAME, AND METHODS OF ABLATING TISSUE USING SAME - An ablation device includes a handle assembly including a distal end and a probe extending distally from the distal end of the handle assembly. The probe includes a heat-transfer portion and at least one fluid-flow path in fluid communication with the heat-transfer portion. The handle assembly includes at least one fluid reservoir in fluid communication with the at least one fluid-flow path and at least one apparatus configured to cause fluid flow between the at least one fluid reservoir and the heat-transfer portion. The probe is configured to apply thermal energy released by an exothermic chemical reaction that occurs when fluid from the at least one fluid reservoir is caused to flow to the heat-transfer portion. | 07-31-2014 |
| 20140214023 | ELECTROSURGICAL DEVICES WITH DIRECTIONAL RADIATION PATTERN - A device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes an antenna assembly and an elongated body member. The elongated body member includes a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, wherein the proximal and distal end portions define a longitudinal axis. The elongated body member has a chamber defined therein that extends along the longitudinal axis, and a body wall surrounding the chamber. An antenna assembly is disposed in the chamber. The elongated body member also includes an opening in the body wall to allow energy radiated from the antenna assembly to transfer into the target volume of tissue. | 07-31-2014 |
| 20140259641 | MICROWAVE ENERGY-DELIVERY DEVICE AND SYSTEM - A method of manufacturing a microwave ablation device, the method including applying a balun short circumferentially about an outer conductor of a coaxial feedline and applying a dielectric material circumferentially about the outer conductor of the coaxial feedline and in contact with the balun short to form a balun. The method further including extending a temperature sensor along the coaxial feedline such that the sensor contacts the balun short, securing the temperature sensor to the coaxial feedline with a first heat shrink material, and securing the dielectric material, balun short, and temperature sensor in contact with each other and to the coaxial feedline using a second heat shrink material. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140262201 | Recirculating Cooling System For Energy Delivery Device - A method for cooling a medical device includes fluidly connecting a cooling fluid reservoir to a medical device. The fluid connection includes a fluid out-flow path and a fluid return path corresponding to the fluid reservoir. The cooling fluid is pumped from the fluid reservoir to the medical device. The medical device is energized and the heat generated by the energization is absorbed by the cooling fluid pumped to the medical device. The cooling fluid is received at the reservoir containing the absorbed heat. The cooling fluid transfers the absorbed heat to the cooling fluid in the reservoir and to the environment adjacent to the reservoir. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276033 | MICROWAVE ENERGY-DEVICE AND SYSTEM - An ablation system including an image database storing a plurality of computed tomography (CT) images of a luminal network and a navigation system enabling, in combination with an endoscope and the CT images, navigation of a locatable guide and an extended working channel to a point of interest. The system further includes one or more fiducial markers, placed in proximity to the point of interest and a percutaneous microwave ablation device for applying energy to the point of interest. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276200 | MICROWAVE ENERGY-DELIVERY DEVICE AND SYSTEM - A method of treating tissue including displaying a path to a point of interest within a luminal network, navigating a locatable guide to the point of interest following the displayed path, and deploying one or more fiducial markers proximate the point of interest. The method also including percutaneously inserting a microwave ablation device into the point of interest and ablating the tissue at the point of interest. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276739 | MICROWAVE ENERGY-DELIVERY DEVICE AND SYSTEM - A microwave ablation device including a cable assembly configured to connect a microwave ablation device to an energy source and a feedline in electrical communication with the cable assembly. The microwave ablation device further includes a balun on an outer conductor of the feedline, and a temperature sensor on the balun sensing the temperature of the balun. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276740 | Recirculating Cooling System For Energy Delivery Device - An energy delivery device cooling system includes a reservoir connector assembly and an elongate member. The elongate member has first and second lumens in fluid communication with the reservoir. The first lumen includes an outflow port and the second lumen includes a return port each in fluid communication with the reservoir. The device further includes a tubing system having a first end and a second end. The first end connected in fluid communication with the outflow port and the second end in fluid communication with the return port. The second end configured to return a fluid to the reservoir. The tubing system connects to an energy delivery device to cool the fluid. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140290830 | STEP-DOWN COAXIAL MICROWAVE ABLATION APPLICATORS AND METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING SAME - Microwave ablation applicators and methods for manufacturing the microwave ablation applicators are disclosed. A microwave ablation applicator includes a feed-line segment, a step-down segment, and a radiator base segment. The feed-line segment includes a first inner conductor, a first dielectric disposed on the first inner conductor, and a first outer conductor disposed on the first dielectric. The step-down segment includes a second inner conductor, a second dielectric disposed on the second inner conductor, and a second outer conductor disposed on the second dielectric. The radiator base segment includes a third inner conductor disposed on the third inner conductor, a third outer conductor disposed on the proximal end of the third dielectric so as to form a feed gap at a distal end of the radiator base segment, a balun dielectric disposed on the third outer conductor, and a balun outer conductor disposed on the balun dielectric. | 10-02-2014 |
| 20140296839 | STEP-DOWN COAXIAL MICROWAVE ABLATION APPLICATORS AND METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING SAME - Microwave ablation applicators and methods for manufacturing the microwave ablation applicators are disclosed. A microwave ablation applicator includes a feed-line segment, a step-down segment, and a radiator base segment. The feed-line segment includes a first inner conductor, a first dielectric disposed on the first inner conductor, and a first outer conductor disposed on the first dielectric. The step-down segment includes a second inner conductor, a second dielectric disposed on the second inner conductor, and a second outer conductor disposed on the second dielectric. The radiator base segment includes a third inner conductor disposed on the third inner conductor, a third outer conductor disposed on the proximal end of the third dielectric so as to form a feed gap at a distal end of the radiator base segment, a balun dielectric disposed on the third outer conductor, and a balun outer conductor disposed on the balun dielectric. | 10-02-2014 |
| 20140296841 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING ABLATION SIZE - A system for monitoring ablation size includes a power source including a microprocessor for executing one or more control algorithms. A microwave antenna is configured to deliver microwave energy from the power source to tissue to form an ablation zone. A plurality of spaced-apart electrodes is operably disposed along a length of the microwave antenna. The plurality of spaced-apart electrodes is disposed in electrical communication with one another and each of the plurality of spaced-apart electrodes has a threshold impedance associated therewith corresponding to the radius of the ablation zone. | 10-02-2014 |
| 20140343545 | MICROWAVE ABLATION GENERATOR CONTROL SYSTEM - A microwave energy delivery and measurement system, including a microwave energy source configured to delivery microwave energy to a microwave energy delivery device, a measurement system configured to measure at least one parameter of the microwave energy delivery device and a switching network configured to electrically isolate the microwave energy source and the measurement system. The measurement system is configured to actively measure in real time at least one parameter related to the microwave energy delivery device. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20150015237 | MICROWAVE ABLATION ANTENNA RADIATION DETECTOR - A radiation detector disposed on a microwave antenna assembly is disclosed. The radiation detector includes a receiving antenna adapted to receive errant microwave energy and a rectifier coupled to the receiving antenna that is adapted to rectify at least a portion of the errant microwave energy. A filter is coupled to the rectifier and is adapted to convert the rectified microwave energy into a detection signal. | 01-15-2015 |
| 20150025520 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING ABLATION SIZE - A system for monitoring ablation size is provided and includes a power source including a microprocessor for executing at least one control algorithm. A microwave antenna is configured to deliver microwave energy from the power source to tissue to form an ablation zone. A radiation detection device is operably disposed on the microwave antenna. The radiation detection device is configured to generate a voltage corresponding to a radius of the ablation zone, wherein the radiation detection device is in operative communication with at least one module associated with the power source. The at least one module triggers a signal when a predetermined threshold voltage is measured corresponding to the radius of the ablation zone. | 01-22-2015 |
| 20150073266 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LUNG VISUALIZATION USING ULTASOUND - A system for ultrasound interrogation of a lung includes a memory, an electromagnetic (EM) board, an extended working channel (EWC), an EM sensor, a US transducer, and a processor. The memory stores a three dimensional (3D) model, a pathway plan for navigating a luminal network. An EM board generates an EM field. The EWC is configured to navigate the luminal network of a patient toward a target following the pathway plan and the EM sensor extends distally from the EWC and senses the EM field. The US transducer extends distally from a distal end of the EWC and generates US waves and receives US waves reflected from the luminal network and the processor processes the sensed EM field to synchronize a location of the EM sensor in the 3D model, to process the reflected US waves to generate images, or to integrate the generated images with the 3D model. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150073267 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LUNG VISUALIZATION USING ULTASOUND - A system for ultrasound interrogation of a lung including a memory, an electromagnetic (EM) board, an extended working channel (EWC), an EM sensor, a US transducer, and a processor. The memory stores a three dimensional (3D) model and pathway plan for navigating a luminal network. The EM board generates an EM field. The EWC is configured to navigate the luminal network toward a target following the pathway plan. The EM sensor extends distally from a distal end of the EWC and is configured to sense the EM field. The US transducer extends distally from a distal end of the EWC, generates US waves, and receives US waves reflected from the luminal network. The processor processes the sensed EM field to synchronize a location of the EM sensor in the 3D model, to process the reflected US waves to generate images, or to integrate the generated images with the 3D model. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150073268 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LIGHT BASED LUNG VISUALIZATION - A system for light based interrogation of a lung includes a memory, an electromagnetic (EM) board, an extended working channel (EWC), an EM sensor, a light source, a light receptor and a processor. The memory stores a 3D model and a pathway plan of a luminal network and the EM board generates an EM field. The EWC navigates a luminal network of a patient toward a target in accordance with the pathway plan and the EM sensor extends distally from a distal end of the EWC and is configured to sense the EM field. The light source is located at or around the EWC and emits light, and the light receptor is located at or around the EWC and is configured to sense reflected light from airway of the luminal network. The processor converts the reflected light into light based data and identifies a type or density of tissue. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150073269 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LIGHT BASED LUNG VISUALIZATION - A system for light based interrogation of a lung includes a memory, an electromagnetic (EM) board, an extended working channel (EWC), an EM sensor, a light source, a light receptor and a processor. The memory stores a 3D model and a pathway plan of a luminal network and the EM board generates an EM field. The EWC navigates a luminal network of a patient toward a target in accordance with the pathway plan and the EM sensor extends distally from a distal end of the EWC and is configured to sense the EM field. The light source is located at or around the EWC and is configured to emit light, and the light receptor is located at or around the EWC and is configured to sense reflected light from airway of the luminal network. The processor converts the reflected light into light based data and identifies a type of tissue. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150073403 | MICROWAVE ABLATION SYSTEM WITH DIELECTRIC TEMPERATURE PROBE - An electromagnetic surgical ablation system having a generator adapted to selectively provide surgical ablation energy to an ablation probe, and methods of operating same, are disclosed. The system includes a controller operatively coupled to the generator, and a tissue sensor probe operatively coupled to the controller. The tissue sensor provides a tissue temperature and at least one tissue dielectric property to the controller. During an electromagnetic tissue ablation procedure, the controller monitors tissue temperature and the at least one tissue dielectric property to determine tissue status, and to activate and deactivate the generator in accordance therewith. | 03-12-2015 |
