Patents by Inventor Philip E. Eggers
Philip E. Eggers has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Publication number: 20030023285Abstract: Method, system and apparatus for carrying out accurate electrosurgical cutting. A thin resilient electrode is utilized at the forward end region of an instrument which is deployable from a longitudinally disposed slot positioned rearwardly of the tip of the instrument. Lateral sides of the slot extend between a forward location adjacent the tip and a rearward location. The electrode is deployed by urging it forwardly in compression to form an arch profile supported by the abutting slot sides adjacent the forward and rearward locations. Electrosurgically excitable with a cutting output, the electrode may carry out a cutting action both during its deployment and retraction into the noted slot. This permits a pivoting maneuver effective for circumscribing a volume of targeted tissue.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2002Publication date: January 30, 2003Inventors: Philip E. Eggers, Eric A. Eggers, Andrew R. Eggers
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Patent number: 6500173Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for selectively applying electrical energy to a target location within of a patient's body, particularly including tissue in the spine. The present invention applies high frequency (RF) electrical energy to one or more electrode terminals in the presence of electrically conductive fluid to remove, contract or otherwise modify the structure of tissue structures. In one aspect of the invention, a method is provided for treating herniated discs within a patient's spine by applying sufficient electrical energy to the disc tissue to reduce a volume of the disc, thereby relieving pressure on a spinal nerve. In one embodiment, the high frequency voltage is sufficient to ablate a portion of the nucleus pulposis, either the extruded portion outside of the annulus or a portion or all of the pulposis within the annulus.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventors: Ronald A. Underwood, Terry S. Davison, Hira V. Thapliyal, Philip E. Eggers
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Publication number: 20020193789Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for removing adipose or fatty tissue underlying a patient's epidermis is disclosed (e.g., liposuction, abdominoplasty, and the like). The method includes positioning one or more active electrode(s) and one or more return electrode(s) in close proximity to a target region of fatty tissue. A high frequency voltage difference is applied between the active and return electrodes, and the fatty tissue or fragments of the fatty tissue are aspirated from the target region. The high frequency voltage either softens the fatty tissue or completely removes at least a portion of the tissue. In both embodiments, the remaining fatty tissue is more readily detached from the adjacent tissue in the absence of energy, and less mechanical force is required for removal. The bipolar configuration of the present invention controls the flow of current to the immediate region around the distal end of the probe, which minimizes tissue necrosis and the conduction of current through the patient.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 10, 2002Publication date: December 19, 2002Applicant: ArthroCare CorporationInventors: Ronald A. Underwood, Stephen M. Brunell, Michael A. Baker, Hira V. Thapliyal, Philip E. Eggers
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Patent number: 6482201Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for selectively applying electrical energy to a target location within or on a patient's body. In particular, methods and apparatus are provided for resecting, cutting, partially ablating, aspirating or otherwise removing tissue from a target site, and ablating the tissue in situ. The systems and methods of the present invention are particularly useful for ablation and hemostasis of tissue in sinus surgery (e.g., chronic sinusitis and/or removal of polypectomies) and for resecting and ablating soft tissue structures, such as the meniscus and synovial tissue within a joint.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2000Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Assignee: ArthroCare CorporationInventors: Phillip M. Olsen, Maria B. Ellsberry, David C. Hovda, Hira V. Thapliyal, Philip E. Eggers
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Patent number: 6471659Abstract: System, method and apparatus for carrying out the recovery of an intact volume of tissue wherein a delivery cannula distal end is positioned in confronting adjacency with the volume of tissue to be recovered. A capture component formed of a plurality of metal leafs is deployed from the distal end of the delivery cannula. The tips of these leafs carry a pursing cable assembly which is electrically excited to electrosurgically cut around and circumscribe the tissue volume. These pursing cables are tensioned to complete the envelopment of the tissue volumes by drawing the leaf tips together. Drive to the capture component ultimately is developed from an electric motor and electrosurgical cutting current is supplied initially at a boost voltage level and thereafter at a lower normal cutting voltage level.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2001Date of Patent: October 29, 2002Assignee: Neothermia CorporationInventors: Philip E. Eggers, Andrew R. Eggers, Eric A. Eggers, John Kociecki
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Patent number: 6468274Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for selectively applying electrical energy to a fissure or tear location within an invertebral disc. The present invention applies high frequency (RF) electrical energy to one or more active electrodes in the presence of electrically conductive fluid to heat and seal a fissure on an annulus fibrosus. In one aspect of the invention, a method is provided for treating the fissure by applying sufficient electrical energy to the disc tissue to seal the fissure. In one embodiment, the RF energy is directed through the conductive fluid to heat the tissue immediately surrounding the fissure. The RF energy is sufficient to vaporize at least a portion of the fluid in contact with the active electrode. In another embodiment, the electrical current is directed through the tissue to directly heat the annulus tissue. This causes the annulus tissue to contract and seal the fissure. In a specific configuration, a sealant is added to the fissure to enhance the seal.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2000Date of Patent: October 22, 2002Assignee: ArthroCare CorporationInventors: Neville Alleyne, David C. Hovda, Hira V. Thapliyal, Philip E. Eggers
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Patent number: 6468270Abstract: Systems, apparatus and methods for ablation, resection, aspiration, collagen shrinkage and/or hemostasis of tissue and other body structures in open and endoscopic spine surgery. In particular, the present invention includes a channeling technique in which small holes or channels are formed within spinal discs, and thermal energy is applied to the tissue surface immediately surrounding these holes or channels to cause thermal damage to the tissue surface, thereby stiffening the surrounding tissue structure and for reducing the volume of the disc to relieve pressure on the surrounding nerves. High frequency voltage is applied between one or more active electrode(s) and one or more return electrode(s) to volumetrically remove or ablate at least a portion of the disc tissue, and the active electrode(s) are advanced through the space left by the ablated tissue to form a channel, hole, divot or other space in the disc tissue.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2000Date of Patent: October 22, 2002Assignee: ArthoCare CorporationInventors: David C. Hovda, Maria B. Ellsberry, Hira V. Thapliyal, Philip E. Eggers
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Publication number: 20020151885Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for selectively applying electrical energy to a target location within a patient's body, particularly including tissue in the spine. The present invention applies high frequency (RF) electrical energy to one or more electrode terminals in the presence of electrically conductive fluid to contract collagen fibers within the tissue structures. In one aspect of the invention, a system and method is provided for treating herniated or swollen discs within a patient's spine by applying sufficient electrical energy to the disc tissue to contract or shrink the collagen fibers within the nucleus pulposis. This causes the pulposis to shrink and withdraw from its impingement on the spinal nerve.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 1998Publication date: October 17, 2002Inventors: RONALD A. UNDERWOOD, TERRY S. DAVISON, HIRA V. THAPLIYAL, PHILIP E. EGGERS
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Patent number: 6464695Abstract: Systems, apparatus and methods for ablation, resection, aspiration, collagen shrinkage and/or hemostasis of tissue and other body structures in open and endoscopic spine surgery. In particular, the present invention includes a channeling technique in which small holes or channels are formed within spinal discs, and thermal energy is applied to the tissue surface immediately surrounding these holes or channels to cause thermal damage to the tissue surface, thereby stiffening the surrounding tissue structure and for reducing the volume of the disc to relieve pressure on the surrounding nerves. High frequency voltage is applied between one or more active electrode(s) and one or more return electrode(s) to volumetrically remove or ablate at least a portion of the disc tissue, and the active electrode(s) are advanced through the space left by the ablated tissue to form a channel, hole, divot or other space in the disc tissue.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2001Date of Patent: October 15, 2002Assignee: ArthroCare CorporationInventors: David C. Hovda, Maria B. Ellsberry, Hira V. Thapliyal, Philip E. Eggers
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Patent number: 6461354Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for selectively applying electrical energy to a target location on an external body surface, such as skin tissue removal and/or collagen shrinkage in the epidermis or dermis, e.g., the removal of pigmentations, vascular lesions (e.g., leg veins), scars, tattoos, etc., and for other surgical procedures on the skin, such as tissue rejuvenation, cosmetic surgery, wrinkle removal, hair removal and/or transplant procedures. The present invention applies high frequency (RF) electrical energy to one or more electrode terminals adjacent an external body surface, such as the outer surface of the skin, to remove and/or modify the structure of tissue structures within the skin. Depending on the specific cosmetic procedure, the present invention may be used to: (1) volumetrically remove tissue or hair (i.e.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 1999Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: ArthroCare CorporationInventors: Phillip M. Olsen, Stephen M. Brunell, Hira V. Thapliyal, Philip E. Eggers
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Patent number: 6461350Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for removing adipose or fatty tissue underlying a patient's epidermis is disclosed (e.g., liposuction, abdominoplasty, and the like). The method includes positioning one or more active electrode(s) and one or more return electrode(s) in close proximity to a target region of fatty tissue. A high frequency voltage difference is applied between the active and return electrodes, and the fatty tissue or fragments of the fatty tissue are aspirated from the target region. The high frequency voltage either softens the fatty tissue or completely removes at least a portion of the tissue. In both embodiments, the remaining fatty tissue is more readily detached from the adjacent tissue in the absence of energy, and less mechanical force is required for removal. The bipolar configuration of the present invention controls the flow of current to the immediate region around the distal end of the probe, which minimizes tissue necrosis and the conduction of current through the patient.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 1998Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: ArthroCare CorporationInventors: Ronald A. Underwood, Stephen M. Brunell, Michael A. Baker, Hira V. Thapliyal, Philip E. Eggers
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Patent number: 6432103Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for selectively applying electrical energy to a target location within the head and neck of a patient's body, particularly including tissue in the ear, nose and throat. The present invention includes a channeling technique in which small holes or channels are formed within tissue structures in the mouth, such as the tonsils, tongue, palate and uvula, and thermal energy is applied to the tissue surface immediately surrounding these holes or channels to cause thermal damage to the tissue surface, thereby stiffening the surrounding tissue structure. Applicant has discovered that such stiffening of certain tissue structures in the mouth and throat helps to prevent the tissue structure from obstructing the patient's upper airway during sleep.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2000Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Assignee: ArthroCare CorporationInventors: Maria B. Ellsberry, David C. Hovda, Jean Woloszko, Hira V. Thapliyal, Philip E. Eggers
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Patent number: 6416508Abstract: An electrosurgical probe (10) comprises a shaft (13) having an electrode array (58) at its distal end and a connector (19) at its proximal end for coupling the electrode array to a high frequency power supply (28). The shaft includes a return electrode (56) recessed from its distal end and enclosed within an insulating jacket (18). The return electrode defines an inner passage (83) electrically connected to both the return electrode and the electrode array for passage of an electrically conducting liquid (50). By applying high frequency voltage to the electrode array and the return electrode, the electrically conducting liquid generates a current flow path between the return electrode and the electrode array so that target tissue may be cut or ablated. The probe is particularly useful in dry environments, such as the mouth or abdominal cavity, because the electrically conducting liquid provides the necessary return current path between the active and return electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2000Date of Patent: July 9, 2002Assignee: Arthrocare CorporationInventors: Philip E. Eggers, Hira V. Thapliyal
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Patent number: 6416507Abstract: An electrosurgical probe (10) comprises a shaft (13) having an electrode array (58) at its distal end and a connector (19) at its proximal end for coupling the electrode array to a high frequency power supply (28). The shaft includes a return electrode (56) recessed from its distal end and enclosed within an insulating jacket (18). The return electrode defines an inner passage (83) electrically connected to both the return electrode and the electrode array for passage of an electrically conducting liquid (50). By applying high frequency voltage to the electrode array and the return electrode, the electrically conducting liquid generates a current flow path between the return electrode and the electrode array so that target tissue may be cut or ablated. The probe is particularly useful in dry environments, such as the mouth or abdominal cavity, because the electrically conducting liquid provides the necessary return current path between the active and return electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2000Date of Patent: July 9, 2002Assignee: ArthroCare CorporationInventors: Philip E. Eggers, Hira V. Thapliyal
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Publication number: 20020068930Abstract: Systems, apparatus, and methods are provided for promoting blood flow to a target tissue. In one aspect, the invention involves canalizing or boring channels, divots, trenches or holes through an avascular connective tissue, or through a tissue having sparse vascularity, such as a tendon or a meniscus, in order to increase blood flow within the tissue. In one method, an active electrode is positioned in close proximity to a target site on a tendon, and a high frequency voltage difference is applied between the active electrode and a return electrode to selectively ablate tendon tissue at the target site, thereby forming a channel or void in the tendon. The active electrode(s) may be moved relative to the tendon during, or after, the application of electrical energy to damage or sculpt a void within the tendon, such as a hole, channel, crater, or the like.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2001Publication date: June 6, 2002Applicant: ArthroCare CorporationInventors: James P. Tasto, Jean Woloszko, Philip E. Eggers, Hira V. Thapliyal
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Patent number: 6391025Abstract: The present invention provides systems, apparatus and methods for selectively applying electrical energy to cut or incise structures in a patient's body. The electrosurgical systems and methods are particularly useful for removing tissue or ligaments from a patient's joint, such as the patellar ligament in the knee, in dermatological procedures, i.e., surface treatment of the patient's outer skin, such as the removal of pigmentations, vascular lesions (e.g., leg veins), scars, tattoos, etc., and in procedures for removing tissue in regions of the head and neck. The method of the present invention comprises positioning an electrosurgical probe adjacent the target tissue so that one or more electrode terminal(s) are brought into at least partial contact or close proximity with the target site in the presence of electrically conductive fluid.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 1998Date of Patent: May 21, 2002Assignee: ArthroCare CorporationInventors: Allan Weinstein, Andrew R. Eggers, Hira V. Thapliyal, Philip E. Eggers
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Patent number: 6379351Abstract: The present invention is directed to systems, methods and apparatus for removing implanted objects from a patient's body, particularly implanted endocardial or epicardial pacemaker leads and transvenous defibrillation leads from a patient's heart. In one aspect of the invention, an electrosurgical catheter is advanced to a position within the thoracic cavity adjacent a portion of a pacemaker lead that is affixed to heart tissue. Preferably, the catheter is advanced over the pacemaker lead, i.e., using the pacemaker lead as a guidewire, to facilitate this positioning step. Once the distal end of the catheter reaches a blockage, or a portion of the lead that is attached to fibrous scar tissue, a high frequency voltage difference is applied between one or more electrode terminal(s) at the distal end of the catheter and one or more return electrode(s) to remove the scar tissue around the lead.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2000Date of Patent: April 30, 2002Assignee: Arthrocare CorporationInventors: Hira V. Thapliyal, Philip E. Eggers, Katherine M. Williams, Michael A. Baker, Phillip M. Olsen
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Patent number: 6363937Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for selectively applying electrical energy to a target location within the gastrointestinal tract, such as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). In one aspect of the invention, high frequency voltage is applied between the electrode terminal(s) and one or more return electrode(s) to remove a small tissue segment, channel or hole from the region near or in the LES to shrink the turbinates and prevent swelling, due to the formation of scar tissue as the wound heals. The high frequency voltage may be selected to effect a small amount of thermal damage to the walls of the channel or hole to facilitate the formation of scar tissue without extending this thermal damage beyond the immediate region of the target site. In another aspect, the high frequency voltage is selected to contract collagen fibers within the LES to improve its tone, thereby reducing the frequency of reflux.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 1998Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Assignee: ArthroCare CorporationInventors: David C. Hovda, Hira V. Thapliyal, Philip E. Eggers
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Patent number: D457628Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2001Date of Patent: May 21, 2002Assignee: Neothermia CorporationInventors: Philip E. Eggers, Scott P. Huntley, Andre de Salis
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Patent number: D457960Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2001Date of Patent: May 28, 2002Assignee: Neothermia CorporationInventors: Philip E. Eggers, Scott P. Huntley, Andre de Salis