Abstract: A shaped conductive core electrode member having an elongated curved sharp leading cutting edge forming part thereof for use with a resectoscope is shown. The electrode includes an electrode lead member having an elongated conductor member having a first end and a second end with an insulative cover extended therebetween. The first end has a protruding electrode adapted to be electrically connected to an electrosurgical generator. The second end terminates in an electrode support member which is operatively connected to or forms an integral part of the shaped electrode as an active member. The electrode support member has an elongated semi-rigid bifurcated arm terminating in a conductive core. The bifurcated arm is covered with an insulative material except at the distal end where the shaped electrode is located.

Abstract: Apparatus for performing thermal ablation of the endometrium of a uterus is shown. The apparatus includes a catheter having at least one lumen. An insulating material is positioned around a selected portion of the exterior of the catheter to insulate the same from the walls of the vagina. A thermally conductive inflatable member is operatively coupled to the distal end of the catheter. The inflatable member is capable of expanding from a collapsed position, when filled with a fluid, into an expanded position which approximates the shape and volume of a uterus. The inflatable member is adapted to be placed into the uterus in the collapsed position and is filled through the catheter with a heated fluid to expand the inflatable member into its expanded position and into intimate contact with the endometrium.

Abstract: A disposable bipolar electrosurgical probe which can be readily applied to the tissue to be treated, then discarded. The probe comprises an elongated substrate member having a peripheral surface of dielectric material and a longitudinal axis extending between a working end and an attachment end. At least a pair of electrically isolated electrodes extend continuously on the peripheral surface of the substrate member between an active region at the working end and an electrical terminal region at the attachment end for quick connection and/or disconnection, respectively, to opposite poles of an RF generator. A handle with a quick disconnect mechanism is provided to physically support the probe and enable it to be selectively energized. The probes can be of a fail safe construction so as to assure that only a proper probe can be used for a desired treatment.

Abstract: A gas pressure neutralizing device for use with a working channel of an inspection instrument. The device comprises means for providing a first gas pressure buffer, a second gas pressure buffer, a chamber formed therebetween and means for reducing the pressure in the chamber whereby gases are substantially prevented from exiting the instrument through a working inlet of the device at an elevated pressure or high velocity.

Abstract: A disposable bipolar electrosurgical probe which can be readily applied to the tissue to be treated, then discarded. The probe comprises an elongated substrate member having a peripheral surface of dielectric material and a longitudinal axis extending between a working end and an attachment end. At least a pair of electrically isolated electrodes extend continuously on the peripheral surface of the substrate member between an active region at the working end and an electrical terminal region at the attachment end for quick connection and/or disconnection, respectively, to opposite poles of an RF generator. A handle with a quick disconnect mechanism is provided to physically support the probe and enable it to be selectively energized. The probes can be of a fail safe construction so as to assure that only a proper probe can be used for a desired treatment.

Abstract: An electrosurgical device for use in the treatment of tissue, particularly in the esophageal and anal regions of the body. The device comprises a multipolar probe body sized for passage into and within a body cavity whose tissue is to be treated without the aid of an endoscope. The probe body includes an active member for providing focused treatment of tissue, the active member being cylindrical and having a peripheral surface on which are mounted a plurality of electrodes, those of one polarity being interposed with those of the opposite polarity. The length of the electrodes can be chosen to obtain desired longitudinal focussing. Additionally, the electrodes can be positioned within a restricted arc to obtain desired peripheral focussing. The probe body also includes non active rounded cap members at its proximal and distal ends, and at its proximal end is mounted on a shaft which extends to the user. A filliform may be mounted on the distal end of the probe body to aid in its insertion into the esophagus.