Abstract: A blood vessel dissecting device method involves inserting a dissecting device into a living body, advancing the dissecting device along a vein, and dissecting the vein and tissue bound to the vein from other surrounding tissue.

Abstract: A blood vessel dissecting device method involves inserting a dissecting device into a living body, advancing the dissecting device along a vein, and dissecting the vein and tissue bound to the vein from other surrounding tissue.

Abstract: A medical device is disclosed for cutting substances inside a body lumen, the medical device including a rotatable tubular drive shaft; an expandable cutting member arranged on distal side of the drive shaft; an axial moving shaft connected to a distal end of the drive shaft with the cutting member, the axial moving shaft configured to expand and contract the cutting member by axially moving of the axial moving shaft; a handle configured to retract the drive shaft and the axial moving shaft; and an operating member disposed on a different axis with respect to an axis of the axial moving shaft.

Abstract: A method of treating a lesion in a body lumen to enlarge a passageway in the lumen including inserting a plurality of cutting members and a tracking member through a first lumen of a catheter, withdrawing the catheter from the cutting members and tracking member, inserting the catheter over the tracking member and leaving the cutting members outside the catheter, and expanding a portion of the catheter to move the cutting members into cutting contact with the lesion. A device for treating a lesion in a body lumen including a plurality of cutting members and a tracking member is also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a trajectory guidance instrument that is securable to a surgical tool for use in conjunction with X-ray machines. More particularly, the device includes a radiolucent outrigger having radiodense indicia disposed on the outrigger so that the radiodense indicia is visible via an X-ray machine to provide an angular trajectory for the instrument. The outrigger is securable to various surgical tools for the purpose of providing real time trajectory guidance to surgeons during a procedure. In general, the precision trajectory guidance instrument comprises a substantially rigid outrigger device which it securable to a portion of the surgical tool for trajectory guidance. The trajectory guidance instrument may be attached with clips, fasteners, adhesives, hook and loop or the like.

Abstract: Medical devices and methods for using medical devices are disclosed. An access device for accessing a target site comprises a tubular member having a proximal portion and a distal portion. The access device may also include a balloon coupled to the tubular member, the balloon extending between the tubular member proximal portion and the tubular member distal portion. The access device may also include a stylet moveable with respect to the tubular member, wherein the stylet is configured to pierce through the skin of a patient.

Abstract: A mounting structure for connecting a device to an organ. The mounting structure includes a mounting element defining a bore. The mounting element is adapted for mounting to an exterior surface of the organ of a living subject. The mounting element includes a collar having a deformable wall defining a main bore. A gimbal ring disposed within the main bore and within the collar is included, the gimbal ring defining a gimbal bore co-axial with the main bore and including a plurality of separate arcuate elements cooperatively disposed in a circumferential direction around the gimbal bore, the plurality of separate arcuate elements being movable toward one another to constrict the gimbal bore.

Abstract: A trocar adapted for insertion through a fascia layer of an abdominal wall, comprising a proximal end configured for handling by a user; a distal end configured for insertion into tissue; and a shaft extending in between the proximal end and distal end, wherein the shaft comprises a narrow portion proximal to the distal end, the narrow portion defining at least one recess shaped and sized to receive fascia tissue, the recess ending, at a distal end, with a generally proximally facing surface of the shaft configured directly below the narrow portion, the proximally facing surface and the narrow portion shaped and sized to stabilize the trocar in the abdominal wall by the fascia. In some embodiments, a trocar and external cannula assembly are provided. In some embodiments, the trocar and/or trocar and external cannula assembly are configured for deployment of one or more anchors and/or sutures in the tissue.

Abstract: A trocar comprising an alignment channel and an instrument seal comprising a bending portion and a base portion. The bending and base portions of the instrument seal are spaced relative the alignment channel such that when a surgical instrument is retracted the bending portion inverts and the lip does not enter the alignment channel.

Abstract: A method is provided for the transcatheter insertion of an intracorporeal device into a patient, carried out using a transcatheter insertion system comprising an insertion device, the system comprising an outer sheath arranged and configured to form a passageway for the intracorporeal device and/or the insertion device, the outer sheath guiding the insertion device. The method comprises the steps of: (a) puncturing at least one anatomical wall separating anatomical compartments; (b) delivering the intracorporeal device into the patient; and (c) implanting the intracorporeal device through the anatomical wall(s).

Abstract: Methods and devices for separating an implanted object, such as a pacemaker lead, from tissue surrounding such object in a patient's vasculature system. Specifically, the surgical device includes a handle, an elongate sheath and a circular cutting blade that extends from the distal end of the sheath upon actuating the handle. The circular cutting blade is configured to engage the tissue surrounding an implanted lead and cut such tissue in a coring fashion as the surgical device translates along the length of the lead, thereby allowing the lead, as well as any tissue remaining attached to the lead, to enter the device's elongate shaft. The surgical device has a barrel cam cylinder in the handle assembly that imparts rotation of the blade and a separate cam mechanism in the tip of outer sheath assembly that imparts and controls the extension and retraction of the blade.

Abstract: A uterine manipulator operable to detach the uterus and cervix from the vagina. The uterine manipulator includes a shaft, a handle, a tip assembly, and a cutting assembly. The shaft includes a first end and a second end, and the handle is coupled to the first end and pivotable relative to the first end about a first axis. The tip assembly is coupled to the second end and pivotable relative to the second end along a second axis parallel to the first axis, and is adapted for insertion into the uterus. The cutting assembly is coupled around the shaft and adapted to receive the cervix when the tip assembly is inserted into the uterus.

Abstract: A method of adjusting a uterine manipulator includes inserting a shaft of the uterine manipulator into a cervix, moving a colpotomizer sleeve of the uterine manipulator to a predetermined position along the shaft such that the cervix is received within a colpotomizer cup attached to the colpotomizer sleeve, depressing a rotatable locking member of the colpotomizer sleeve towards the shaft, confirming that the colpotomizer sleeve is accurately located at the predetermined position by visualizing a ruler marking of a plurality of ruler markings printed along the shaft using a magnification lens of the rotatable locking member, and compressing the shaft with the rotatable locking member of the colpotomizer sleeve to lock the colpotomizer sleeve at the predetermined position.

Abstract: An obstetrical instrument includes an elongated handle and a fetal head support portion coupled with a distal end of the elongated handle.

Abstract: Disclosed is an adjustable and partially removable calcaneal restraint system and treatment method in the context of a first phase of surgery wherein a transverse calcaneal pin is inserted through the calcaneus and the calcaneal restraint system is then installed pending the second surgery. An aspect of the calcaneal restraint system also provides a partially removable framework to allow better or unimpeded access to the desired site for the second surgery stage of the treatment.

Abstract: A device is described, for fastening a cranial limb to the cranial crown adapted to be positioned both into a craniotomial hole and into a craniotomial cutting, comprising: a cortical supporting riser; first closing means operatively connected to the riser; second closing means to be fastened to the riser to complete its closing; and a handle connected to the cortical riser; wherein the first closing means are composed of at least two elastic arms operatively connected to the cortical riser and that end each one in at least one small transverse arm.

Abstract: The present invention discloses fusion systems and methods of assembly and use. The fusion systems include a first fastener, a second fastener, and an elongate member with a first end and a second end. The first end being secured to the first fastener and the second end being secure to the second fastener. The method of assembling a fusion system and methods of using the fusion systems are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention discloses single level fusion systems and methods of use. The single level fusion systems include a first fastener, a second fastener, and a connector to secure the first fastener to the second fastener. The method of assembling a single level fusion system including obtaining a first fastener, a second fastener, and a connector, securing the first fastener to the connector, and securing the second fastener to the connector. Methods of using the single level fusion systems are also disclosed.

Abstract: An exemplary system for correcting a spinal deformity includes a plurality of transverse rods, a longitudinal rod, and at least one node. The plurality of transverse rods each includes a first end for coupling with an extension member of a spinal fixation system and a second end. The longitudinal rod extends transverse to the transverse rods. The at least one node receives the second ends of first and second transverse rods and the longitudinal rod within a receiving portion and an adjustment member selectively secures the second ends.

Abstract: An open implant closure structure includes a helically wound guide and advancement structure having at least two helically wound forms thereon providing a multi-start closing mechanism for use between spaced arms of a cooperating open medical implant having mating helically wound structure thereon. Illustrated structures include interlocking flange forms, v-threads, square threads, reverse angle threads and buttress threads and receivers with break-off extensions and cooperating tooling.

Abstract: A bone anchoring device includes an anchoring element having a shaft for anchoring in the bone and a head, a receiving part formed in one piece, and a pressure element formed in one piece. The receiving part has a seat for receiving the head and an outer channel for receiving a rod to be connected to the anchoring element, which is pivotable with respect to the receiving part and can be fixed at an angle by exerting pressure via the pressure element onto the head. The pressure element is movable in the receiving part and includes an inner channel for receiving the rod and a spring element that engages a portion of the receiving part via a detent connection so that the pressure element can be held in a position that allows pivoting of the anchoring element. The spring element is formed by at least a first portion of one of two side walls forming the inner channel, the first portion being spaced apart from a second portion of the one side wall by a slot.

Abstract: A uniplanar bone anchor including a housing and a bone screw is provided. The lower region of the housing defines mating elements that mate with engaging elements on the bone screw to limit movement of the housing relative to the bone screw to a single plane.

Abstract: A bone fixing system useful for holding bone in position, and a method for installing the same are disclosed. The ends of a conformable ligature are passed around bones, bone grafts, tendons, plates, rods, fasteners, or other anatomical or implanted structures, and the like to form a loop extending from a first portion of a body. The ends of the conformable ligature are passed through the body and extend out a second portion of the body. The ends may be attached to a tensioning tool and a selected tension may be applied. A closure member may engage an engagement portion of the body to create a friction force to hold the conformable ligature in place without significant movement relative to the body.

Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed for treating the vertebral column. An integrated fixation plate and spacer having a retaining structure within the screw holes of the fixation plate to resist backout of screws attaching the fixation plate to the bone is provided. A movable joint may be provided between the fixation plate and spacer. In some embodiments, a screw hole insert is also provided to resist shear forces acting between the screw and fixation plate. In some embodiments, an integrated fixation plate and spacer system is provided, comprising two or more integrated fixation plate and spacer implants, wherein the fixation plates of each implant has a complementary configuration to allow attachment of the implants at adjacent intervertebral spaces. Alternative fixation systems are also contemplated.

Abstract: The present invention provides spinous process implant and associated methods. In one aspect of the invention the implant limits the maximum spacing between the spinous processes. In another aspect of the invention, a spacer has at least one transverse opening to facilitate tissue in-growth. In another aspect of the invention, an implant includes a spacer and separate extensions engageable with the spacer. The spacer is provided in a variety of lengths and superior to inferior surface spacings. In another aspect of the invention, an implant includes a spacer and a cerclage element offset from the midline of the spacer in use so that the spacer defines a fulcrum and the cerclage element is operative to impart a moment to the vertebrae about the spacer. In another aspect of the invention, instrumentation for inserting the implant is provided. In other aspects of the invention, methods for treating spine disease are provided.

Abstract: An insertion device for deploying an implant includes an elongated main body having a distal locking portion for coupling to the implant and a proximal handle portion. The main body defines a central passage and the distal locking portion has outer ridges and slots to allow the outer ridges to flex radially inward when mounting to the implant. A plunger slides in the central passage for movement between an unlocked position for mounting the implant on the distal locking portion, a locked position for locking the implant on the distal locking portion, and an insertion instrument deployed position for deploying the actuation plunger to move the blades from the stowed position to the deployed position. A spike cap drive rotatably mounts on the main body having a socket end for engaging a drive nut on the implant to, in turn, move the spike cap.

Abstract: Devices for retracting tissue during a minimally-invasive, posterior spinal fusion procedure include a blade positionable along a passageway device connected to a connecting element implanted in a vertebra of the spine, such that the blade covers at least a portion of a longitudinal opening of the passageway device. The blade may be coupled to the passageway device by receiving the passageway device with a receiving portion. Systems for displacing the vertebrae of the spine include first and second extenders, the distal ends of each of which are configured to engage the connecting elements. Each extender may include a shaft configured to be securely engaged within a cage of the respective connecting element. The devices and systems of the present invention may be used in connection with an interbody fusion technique performed through an opening extending between the passageway devices, and an intermediate retractor blade may provide additional tissue retraction.

Abstract: A rod inserter, system and method can include an inserter that has a handle and an extension structure extending from the handle. A knob and a lever can be located adjacent the handle. A rod connection structure can be located at the distal end of the extension structure, and configured to rotate with respect to the extension structure. The rod connection structure can include a first clamshell structure and a second clamshell structure configured to move towards and away from each other in order to connect and disconnect from a rod, such as a spinal rod. The knob can be configured such that when actuated the first clamshell structure and second clamshell structure move with respect to each other. The lever can be configured such that when actuated the first clamshell structure and second clamshell structure are prevented from rotating with respect to the extension structure.

Abstract: A bone anchoring kit for fixing vertebrae via a posterior or postero-lateral approach, the bone anchoring kit comprising a bone anchoring element comprising a threaded portion intended to be inserted into a vertebra and a head portion coupled to the threaded portion and provided with a channel to receive a rod-type connecting element, a tube comprising a distal end, a proximal end and two opposite longitudinal slots opening to the proximal end of the tube, the tube and the bone anchoring element being placed into a sterile sealed packaging in a configuration in which the tube and the bone anchoring element are detachably coupled together with the slots of the tube faced to the channel of the head portion.

Abstract: A surgical instrument for reducing a rod into a saddle of a fixation member includes a distal end for engaging the saddle and a proximal end. A reducing device is disposed between the distal end and the proximal end. The reducing device is operative to reduce the rod into the saddle. The reducing device defines a throughbore. The throughbore provides access there through by a first drive member to secure a plug to the saddle.

Abstract: A rod inserter, system and method are provided which allows for insertion of a rod through a freehand method. The inserter can include an extension structure extending from a handle, the extension structure having a distal end, a proximal end, and a longitudinal axis. The inserter can also include a plurality of linkage structures located in a passageway in the extension structure. The linkage structures can cause a rod connection structure to connect to the rod when the distal linkage structure is moved in a first direction, and to cause the rod connection structure to disconnect from the rod when the distal linkage structure is moved in a second direction substantially opposite to the first direction.

Abstract: A flexible intramedullary nail is disclosed that is manufactured from a biocompatible rigid material and having a substantially cylindrical hollow body, a leading segment with an entry hole at a distal end and at least one securing means and a trailing segment having a trailing edge and an attachment mechanism. The body has at least one flexible center section, each having at least one slot to provide flexibility. In one embodiment the at least one slot follows a sinuous, serpentine path to form a plurality of interlocking teeth that can follow a helical or a concentric path. Each of the slots has a proximal end and a distal end, with the proximal end being spaced from the trailing segment and the distal end being spaced from the leading segment. When multiple slots are incorporated, the proximal end of a slot is spaced from a distal end of a subsequent slot.

Abstract: A bone plate is asymmetric and includes a straight body and a cross arm. The plate has first and second sides, each with the same structure. The body and cross arm include nodes separated by deformable bridges. Each node defines a screw hole, and wings extending laterally therefrom. The wings taper in thickness between the first and second sides. Screw holes are threaded into the nodes. Each of the first and second sides of the body and cross arm define longitudinal channels in the nodes. The plate can be shaped to the bone by deformation at the bridges or removal of portions of the plate at bridges. A pair of benders, each with clamp bracket and clamping bolt threadedly coupled within a threaded hole of the bracket, is also provided for shaping the plate.

Abstract: A bone stabilizing plate includes two plate portions, each affixable to bones of a patient, the plate portions telescoping together with mating rails and grooves. A limiter associated with one of the plate portions sliding engages one a catch associated with the other of the plate portions, when the plate portions are telescoped together, and resists stops telescoping when the plate portions are telescoped a predetermined distance apart. Once the limiter and catch are engaged, the plate portions enable imposition of a minimum compressive force between bones connected to the plates. The limiter is resiliently positioned to deflect into a relief formed in its respective plate portion. A groove positioned proximate the catch enables free telescoping motion limited by the engagement of the catch and limiter, whereby the minimum compressive force between bones is maintained, and Wolfe's Law may apply.

Abstract: An internal fixation plate for sternoclavicular join comprises a locating rod junction and the clavicle fixation segment, both with flat cross sections. The locating rod junction and the clavicle fixation segment are not in the same plane, and the transition segment connects in between the locating rod junction and the clavicle fixation segment. The clavicle fixation segment is of a long strip, and screw holes are designed in the clavicle fixation segment. The locating rod junction is movably connected to the cylindrical sternum locating rod, through the connector, and allows the sternum locating rod to rotate and swing relative to the locating rod junction. The internal fixation plate connects the clavicle fixation segment to the sternum locating rod through a movable connection, so as to prevent the sternum locating rod from scratching and enlarging the bone holes in sternum.

Abstract: A bone plate has first and second sides, each with the same structure. The plate includes nodes separated by deformable bridges. Each node defines a screw hole, and wings extending laterally therefrom. The wings taper in thickness between the first and second sides. Screw holes are threaded into the nodes. Each of the first and second sides of the body define longitudinal channels in the nodes. The plate can be shaped to the bone by deformation at the bridges or removal of portions of the plate at bridges. A pair of benders, each with clamp bracket and clamping bolt threadedly coupled within a threaded hole of the bracket, is also provided for shaping the plate.

Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for the fusion of joints (particularly finger joints or toe joints) in a bent (or angled) position. The device is not cannulated, straight and inserted into the joint in its straight configuration. The device is configured to have a thicker portion at its proximal end than at its distal end. The device is preferably inserted into a finger joint that is already bent at an angle, and the thin, distal end is configured to screw into and attach to the bone of second joint thereby fusing the first joint to the second joint.

Abstract: A method of using a multichannel cannula to perform kyphoplasty includes inserting a stabilizing wire into a vertebra damaged by a compression fracture and inserting, over the stabilizing wire, a cannula. The cannula includes a first channel having open proximal and distal ends, and is configured to receive the stabilizing wire, and a second channel having an inlet portal and an exit portal that are in fluid communication. The cannula further includes an expandable portion configured to expand away from the cannula from an outer wall of the second channel. The method also includes inflating the expandable portion to create a void in the bone and to restore the height of the vertebra, and then deflating the expandable portion. When the void has been created, bone cement is delivered through the second channel into the void via the exit portal to at least partially fill the void.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for stabilizing a fractured bone. The method includes positioning an elongate rod in the medullary canal of the fractured bone and forming a passageway through the cortex of the bone. The passageway extends from the exterior surface of the bone to the medullary canal of the bone. The method also includes creating a bonding region on the elongate rod. The bonding region is generally aligned with the passageway of the cortex. Furthermore, the method includes positioning a fastener in the passageway of the cortex and on the bonding region of the elongate rod and thermally bonding the fastener to the bonding region of the elongate rod while the fastener is positioned in the passageway of the cortex.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a body, a shaft assembly, an end effector, and a control module. The shaft assembly extends distally from the body and includes an acoustic waveguide. The waveguide is configured to acoustically couple with an ultrasonic transducer. The end effector includes an ultrasonic blade, a clamp arm, an electrode, and a sensor. The ultrasonic blade is in acoustic communication with the waveguide. The clamp arm is operable to compress tissue against the ultrasonic blade. The electrode is operable to apply radiofrequency (RF) electrosurgical energy to tissue. The sensor is operable to sense a condition of tissue contacted by the end effector. The control module is operable to control delivery of ultrasonic power and RF electrosurgical energy through the end effector based on data from the sensor.

Abstract: A power source delivers oscillating electrical energy to an electrical conductor, such as a wire or catheter, which is coated circumferentially with a ferromagnetic material in a selected region. With high frequency electrical energy, the ferromagnetic material has a quick response in heating and cooling adjustable by the controllable power delivery. The ferromagnetic material can be used for separating tissue, coagulation, tissue destruction or achieving other desired tissue effects in numerous surgical procedures.

Abstract: Various forms are directed to systems and methods for operating a surgical instrument that includes a generator configured to provide an energy signal for treating tissue. The generator includes one or more ports for delivering the energy signal to one or more surgical instruments configured to treat tissue, and the one or more surgical instruments are electrically coupled to the respective one or more ports simultaneously. The energy signal includes an energy component comprising one or more energy modalities that is delivered through the one or more ports. The one or more energy modalities includes ultrasonic, bipolar radio frequency (RF), monopolar RF, reversible electroporation, irreversible electroporation, or microwave component, or any combination thereof.

Abstract: Various forms are directed to systems and methods apparatus for operating a surgical instrument that includes an adapter configured to couple to a generator. The generator configured to provide an energy signal for treating tissue The adapter includes at least one input port configured to receive the energy signal from the generator, where the energy signal includes an energy component comprising one or more energy modalities. An energy storage circuit is configured to charge and store energy from the generator as a DC output. The adapter also includes at least one output port configured to couple to one or more surgical instruments for treating tissue. The one or more energy modalities comprises any one of an ultrasonic, a bipolar radio frequency (RF), a monopolar RF, a reversible electroporation, an irreversible electroporation, or a microwave component, or any combination thereof.

Abstract: A system includes a pulse waveform generator and an ablation device coupled to the pulse waveform generator. The ablation device includes at least one electrode configured for ablation pulse delivery to tissue during use. The pulse waveform generator is configured to deliver voltage pulses to the ablation device in the form of a pulsed waveform. A first level of a hierarchy of the pulsed waveform includes a first set of pulses, each pulse having a pulse time duration, with a first time interval separating successive pulses. A second level of the hierarchy of the pulsed waveform includes a plurality of first sets of pulses as a second set of pulses, a second time interval separating successive first sets of pulses, the second time interval being at least three times the duration of the first time interval.

Abstract: Systems and methods for delivering electric fields to a target tissue of a patient for destruction of cancerous cells so as to elicit or induce a specific anti-cancerous cell immune response in the patient.

Abstract: A method includes providing a bipolar energy source, a monopolar energy source, a bipolar assembly, and a monopolar assembly. The method further includes moving the monopolar assembly to a retracted position. Moving the monopolar assembly to the retracted position couples the bipolar energy source to the bipolar assembly and decouples the monopolar energy source from the monopolar assembly. The method further includes moving the monopolar assembly to a deployed position. Moving the monopolar assembly to the deployed position decouples the bipolar energy source from the bipolar assembly and couples the monopolar energy source to the monopolar assembly.

Abstract: A forceps includes an end effector assembly having first and second jaw members. One (or both) of the jaw members is moveable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween. One (or both) of the jaw members includes an opposed jaw surface having an electrically-conductive tissue sealing plate disposed thereon. The electrically-conductive tissue sealing plate includes a first portion configured to conduct energy through tissue grasped between the jaw members to create a main tissue seal and a second portion including a plurality of spaced-apart fingers extending from the first portion. The second portion is configured to conduct energy through tissue grasped between the jaw members to create an auxiliary tissue seal extending from the main tissue seal for reducing stress concentrations adjacent the main tissue seal.

Abstract: An electrosurgical system may comprise an RF current generator, a handle body, an end effector have a first jaw including a first energizing surface electrically contacting a first terminal of the RF generator, and a second jaw including a second energizing surface electrically contacting a second terminal of the RF current generator, in which the two jaws form a jaw angle. The system may also comprise a shunt impedance circuit including a shunt impedance element having a pre-determined impedance value, in which the shunt impedance element is reversibly placed electrically in parallel with the first and second energizing surfaces when the jaw angle is at least a pre-determined angle. The system may also comprise an impedance detector in electrical communication with the first and second energizing surfaces. The system may be used to measure an impedance between the first and second energizing surfaces by the impedance detector.

Abstract: An electrosurgical device may include a front portion releasably attached to a reusable handle. The reusable handle may include a single motor configured to actuate a tissue knife mechanism and an articulation mechanism in the front portion. The reusable handle may include a controller configured to sense a position of a knife advancement control in the front portion and actuate the tissue knife via the motor when the knife advancement control is at a predetermined position. The controller may receive data from the front portion indicating that the front portion includes an articulation joint. If the front portion includes an articulation joint, the controller may actuate, via the motor, an articulation mechanism to adjust an angle of the articulation joint when an articulation control in the front portion is at a predetermined position. The reusable handle may be used with a front portion having or lacking an articulation joint.

Abstract: A catheter probe comprises an insertion tube, and a distal end with a distal electrode, a force sensor to detect force on the distal electrode, and an irrigated electrode mounted on a coupling member of the force sensor, which has a tubular form surrounding a central space occupied by components, including force sensing coils. A fluid diverter that passes fluid to the proximal irrigated electrode is configured as an insert or an integrated projection of the coupling member, which configuration minimizes its space demand within the coupling member. Thus, the diameter of the distal end need not be increased. The fluid diverter has a proximal entry opening and a distal exit opening connected by a fluid passage with at least a radial branch and at least an axial branch. The irrigated electrode is mounted over the distal exit opening to receive fluid from the fluid passage.