Abstract: Devices and methods for a minimally invasive procedure for cutting tissue are disclosed. The device generally includes a probe with a distal exit at an exit angle relative to the probe, a cutting loop with shape memory having a preconfigured shape, and a loop securing mechanism to secure the cutting loop in a penetrating configuration and to release the cutting loop into a cutting configuration. The cutting loop is generally within a profile of the probe in the penetrating configuration. In the cutting configuration, the cutting loop extends through the cutting loop exit and generally returns to the preconfigured shape at a cutting angle generally defined by the exit angle. The cutting loop securing mechanism may be, for example, a cover slidable over the probe, a slidable member extending from a distal tip of the probe, or a groove defined in the probe proximal to the cutting loop exit.

Abstract: Devices and methods for a minimally invasive procedure for cutting tissue are disclosed. The device generally includes a probe with a distal exit at an exit angle relative to the probe, a cutting loop with shape memory having a preconfigured shape, and a loop securing mechanism to secure the cutting loop in a penetrating configuration and to release the cutting loop into a cutting configuration. The cutting loop is generally within a profile of the probe in the penetrating configuration. In the cutting configuration, the cutting loop extends through the cutting loop exit and generally returns to the preconfigured shape at a cutting angle generally defined by the exit angle. The cutting loop securing mechanism may be, for example, a cover slidable over the probe, a slidable member extending from a distal tip of the probe, or a groove defined in the probe proximal to the cutting loop exit.

Abstract: Devices and methods for cutting of soft tissue using radio frequency and suitable for use in minimally invasive procedures are disclosed. The device generally includes an electrode housed in a housing, the electrode being flexible and/or extendable out of and/or retractable into the housing, and an insulating layer partially surrounding the electrode to expose at least a portion of the electrode to define at least one cutting area so as to focus energy from the energy source to the cutting area to facilitate initiation of a cut with the cutting area in contact with tissue. The cutting area(s) may extend and/or be aligned in a direction along a length of the electrode and may include a sharpened and/or serrated edge. The tissue cutting device may include an automated electrode oscillator coupled to the electrode and configured to oscillate the electrode along an axis or plane generally defined by the electrode.