Abstract: Methods and apparatus for ablating a target tissue are discussed. Such methods and apparatus include those that simplify tissue ablation. For example, a tissue ablation device having an actuator, such as a trigger mechanism, coupled to a power source and an electrode is discussed. A single step of engaging the actuator causes the electrode to be introduced into the target tissue and causes energy to be delivered from the power supply to the tissue via the electrode. By way of additional example, a tissue ablation device having an actuator coupled to a fluid source and an electrode is discussed. A single step of engaging the actuator causes conductive fluid to flow from the fluid source to the target tissue location and causes the electrode to be introduced to the target tissue location. The fluid source may be a conductive fluid, such as saline, which may increase the efficiency of ablation. Various other configurations and methods that simplify tissue ablation are also discussed.

Abstract: Delivery elements, including needle electrodes and sheaths of tissue ablation devices, containing a conductivity-enhancing agent are discussed. The delivery elements contain a body member and optionally one or more coating layers. The conductivity-enhancing agent is disposed on or in the body member and/or at least one of the one or more coating layers. The conductivity-enhancing agent is capable of eluting from the delivery element when the delivery element is contacted with bodily tissue or fluid and increases conductivity of the tissue, making tissue ablation more efficient.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for ablating a target tissue are discussed. Such methods and apparatus include those that simplify tissue ablation. For example, a tissue ablation device having an actuator, such as a trigger mechanism, coupled to a power source and an electrode is discussed. A single step of engaging the actuator causes the electrode to be introduced into the target tissue and causes energy to be delivered from the power supply to the tissue via the electrode. By way of additional example, a tissue ablation device having an actuator coupled to a fluid source and an electrode is discussed. A single step of engaging the actuator causes conductive fluid to flow from the fluid source to the target tissue location and causes the electrode to be introduced to the target tissue location. The fluid source may be a conductive fluid, such as saline, which may increase the efficiency of ablation. Various other configurations and methods that simplify tissue ablation are also discussed.

Abstract: A device and method for transurethral needle ablation of prostate tissue to alleviate BPH uses bipolar ablation needles and a virtual electrode. To create the virtual electrode, a conductive fluid is delivered to the target site within the prostate tissue. Ablation energy is then delivered to the target tissue and the virtual electrode via a pair of bipolar ablation needles. The ablation energy flows between the bipolar ablation needles, throughout the virtual electrode and the prostate tissue to create ablation lesions within the prostate.

Abstract: Delivery elements, including needle electrodes and sheaths of tissue ablation devices, containing a conductivity-enhancing agent are discussed. The delivery elements contain a body member and optionally one or more coating layers. The conductivity-enhancing agent is disposed on or in the body member and/or at least one of the one or more coating layers. The conductivity-enhancing agent is capable of eluting from the delivery element when the delivery element is contacted with bodily tissue or fluid and increases conductivity of the tissue, making tissue ablation more efficient.