Abstract: A radio frequency generator and pump apparatus for cooled ablation for ablating tissue in the wall of the heart of a patient. An ablation catheter comprising a flexible elongate member has proximal and distal extremities. An ablation electrode. is carried by the distal extremity. An electrical conductor is carried by the flexible elongate member and is coupled to the ablation electrode. A radio frequency generator is coupled to the electrical conductor. The flexible elongate member has a liquid carrying lumen extending from the proximal extremity to the distal extremity and opens into the cavity of the ablation electrode. A pump is coupled to the liquid lumen for supplying a cooling liquid to the lumen and to the ablation electrode.

Abstract: A catheter for radio frequency ablation with a cooled electrode for use in tissue having a surface comprising an elongate member having proximal and distal extremities. A metal conducting electrode secured to the distal extremity of the elongate member and having a chamber therein. A conductor extends through the elongate member from the proximal to the distal extremity for supplying radio frequency energy to the electrode. The elongate member has a lumen in the distal extremity which is in communication with the chamber. A coolant is disposed in the chamber and in contact with the electrode for dissipating heat created in the electrode by the application of radio frequency energy thereto.

Abstract: Endocardial mapping and ablation system for introduction into a chamber of a heart formed by a wall and having a passage leading thereto. The system is comprised of a catheter probe having a distal extremity. A plurality of electrodes are carried by the distal extremity for mapping the wall of the chamber. An ablation catheter is provided having a distal extremity. The ablation catheter has control means whereby the distal extremity can be bent separately of movement of the catheter probe to come into close proximity to the wall of the heart. The distal extremity of the ablation catheter is provided with capabilities for ablating a portion of the wall of the heart to eliminate an arrhythmia in the heart.