Abstract: Various embodiments of multielectrode radiofrequency (RF) ablation probes are described herein that disclose methods and apparatus for improved control and predictability of the size and shape of RF thermal electrocoagulations. The features of the invention include the ability to make irregularly shaped ablations in order to conform to irregularly shaped target tissue volumes, and to make very large ablations without the requirement for electrode cooling.

Abstract: A steerable, multifunction radiofrequency (RF) catheter probe for providing improved steerability plus variable rigidity of RF catheter probes. The features of the invention include the ability to reversibly vary the rigidity of catheter probes and to configure the shape of the distal end of catheter probes as required by the application.

Abstract: A system and method for diagnosing the possibility of disease in a body part is described. The system includes an electrode array containing a plurality of electrodes capable of being electrically coupled to the body part. A first measurement unit makes an electrode assessment measurement with the electrode array. An electrode assessment module determines whether the plurality of electrodes are suitably coupled to the body part based on the electrode assessment measurement. If there is suitable coupling, a second measurement unit makes a diagnosis measurement with the electrode array. An electrical property module obtains an electrical property of the body part, such as impedance, based on the diagnosis measurement. A diagnosis module diagnoses the possibility of disease based on the measured electrical property.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for screening, sensing, or diagnosing disease states by obtaining a plurality of electrical impedance data measurements in organized patterns from two anatomically homologous body regions, one of which may be affected by disease. One subset of the data so obtained is processed and analyzed after structuring the data values as elements of an n.times.n impedance matrix, and deriving from these matrices their eigenvalues and eigenvectors. The matrices and their derivatives are then related by their characteristics to normal or disease states.