Abstract: The invention proposes a cryoprobe for surgical and other treatments. The cryoprobe comprises a bellow-wise section that performs displacement of a distal cryotip forwards with elevation of operation pressure in the interior of the cryoprobe. Needle-wise metal elements are installed on the external side of the cryotip. These needle-wise elements are deflecting outwards by a deflecting member fastened on the distal edge of an external shaft of the cryoprobe. This allows to enlarge significantly a frozen volume of the treated tissue for same operation temperature and the outer diameter of the cryoprobe.

Abstract: For active thermal insulation of a cryoneedle or hyperthermia needle, preferably, the device comprises a needle for transmitting heat or cold, surrounded by a sheath for providing an opposing temperature to protect surrounding skin.

Abstract: A cryosurgical system and method for supplying cryogen to a probe. The system including a container filled with cryogen and having bellows of a pump submerged within said cryogen. Conduits fluidly interconnect the bellows and a probe that is outside the container to permit the cryogen to be forced from the bellows to the probe upon activation of pump. A pressure relief valve is fluidly coupled to the conduits and positioned between the bellows and the probe. After initially forcing cryogen to the probe at a pressure that establishes a colligative-based sub-cooling of the liquid cryogen, the pressure relief valve is activated to lower the pressure of the cryogen to a running pressure.

Abstract: The present invention generally provides improved medical devices, systems, and methods. Embodiments may be particularly well suited for the treatment of dermatological and/or cosmetic defects, and alternative embodiments may be configured for treatment of a wide range of target tissues. Some embodiments of the present invention apply cooling with at least one small, tissue-penetrating probe, the probe often comprising a needle having a size suitable for inserting through an exposed surface of the skin of a patient without leaving a visible scar. The cooling may remodel one or more target tissue so as to effect a desired change in a composition of the target tissue and/or a change in its behavior. Exemplary embodiments make use of replaceable needle probes supported by a probe body handle, with small needle probes often being replaced during treatment of a single patient. Unlike the large format cryogenic cooling systems of the past, small cryogenic cooling needle probes may dull or be damaged by insertion.

Abstract: An apparatus for compressing a gas and its uses are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a fixed-volume container having a hollow and a moveable element subdividing said hollow into a first variable-volume portion and a second variable-volume portion, the second variable-volume portion having an opening for introducing therein a hydraulic and/or pneumatic fluid under pressure, for causing an increase in the volume of said second variable-portion by moving said moveable element, thereby, consequently, decreasing the volume of the first variable-volume portion and compressing a gas contained therein.

Abstract: A surgical device includes a device body defining a sealed fluid path having a first end and a second end, a refrigerant supply in communication with the first end of the sealed fluid path, and a vacuum source in communication with the second end of the sealed fluid path. Leak detection apparatus can be provided in communication with the sealed fluid path.

Abstract: Systems and methods for planning a cryoablation procedure and for facilitating a cryoablation procedure utilize integrated images displaying, in a common virtual space, a three-dimensional model of a surgical intervention site based on digitized preparatory images of the site from first imaging modalities, simulation images of cryoprobes used according to an operator-planned cryoablation procedure at the site, and real-time images provided by second imaging modalities during cryoablation. The system supplies recommendations for and evaluations of the planned cryoablation procedure, feedback to an operator during cryoablation, and guidance and control signals for operating a cryosurgery tool during cryoablation. Methods are provided for generating a nearly-uniform cold field among a plurality of cryoprobes, for cryoablating a volume with smooth and well-defined borders, thereby minimizing damage to healthy tissues.

Abstract: Systems and methods for planning a cryoablation procedure and for facilitating a cryoablation procedure utilize integrated images displaying, in a common virtual space, a three-dimensional model of a surgical intervention site based on digitized preparatory images of the site from first imaging modalities, simulation images of cryoprobes used according to an operator-planned cryoablation procedure at the site, and real-time images provided by second imaging modalities during cryoablation. The system supplies recommendations for and evaluations of the planned cryoablation procedure, feedback to an operator during cryoablation, and guidance and control signals for operating a cryosurgery tool during cryoablation. Methods are provided for generating a nearly-uniform cold field among a plurality of cryoprobes, for cryoablating a volume with smooth and well-defined borders, thereby minimizing damage to healthy tissues.

Abstract: A device for biopsy of body tissue. The device is driven by liquid CO2, and is provided with a control system to control various components to effectuate rotating core biopsies.

Abstract: Systems and methods for planning a cryoablation procedure and for facilitating a cryoablation procedure utilize integrated images displaying, in a common virtual space, a three-dimensional model of a surgical intervention site based on digitized preparatory images of the site from first imaging modalities, simulation images of cryoprobes used according to an operator-planned cryoablation procedure at the site, and real-time images provided by second imaging modalities during cryoablation. The system supplies recommendations for and evaluations of the planned cryoablation procedure, feedback to an operator during cryoablation, and guidance and control signals for operating a cryosurgery tool during cryoablation. Methods are provided for generating a nearly-uniform cold field among a plurality of cryoprobes, for cryoablating a volume with smooth and well-defined borders, thereby minimizing damage to healthy tissues.

Abstract: The system for providing computer guided ablation of tissue of a patient includes an ablative surgical computer system and a set of surgical devices. The ablative surgical computer system includes a guidance module for providing a treatment guidance plan to an operator; and, a treatment module for acquiring and processing surgical device output data, for optimally controlling treatment parameters and providing feedback information to the operator based on the treatment guidance plan. The set of surgical devices includes at least one ablative device for providing ablation of the treatment region based on the treatment parameters and operator input; and, at least one temperature sensing device for acquiring temperature data from the treatment region and providing a temperature sensing device output signal. The temperature sensing device output signal is a portion of the surgical device output data.

Abstract: Medical devices, systems, and methods optionally treat dermatological and/or cosmetic defects, and/or a wide range of additional target tissues. Embodiments apply cooling with at least one small, tissue-penetrating probe, the probe often comprising a needle having a size suitable for inserting through an exposed surface of the skin of a patient without leaving a visible scar. Treatment may be applied along most or all of the insertable length of an elongate needle, optionally by introducing cryogenic cooling fluid into the needle lumen through a small, tightly-toleranced lumen of a fused silica fluid supply tube, with the supply tube lumen often metering the cooling fluid. Treatment temperature and/or time control may be enhanced using a simple pressure relief valve coupled to the needle lumen via a limited total exhaust volume space.

Abstract: A vacuum insulation tube assembly which is utilized as a component in a cryosurgical probe. The vacuum insulation tube assembly includes an inner tube; and, an outer tube concentrically positioned about the inner tube. The outer tube is securely soldered at end portions of the inner tube and forms a vacuum space between the inner tube and the outer tube. The vacuum tube assemblies may be conveniently mass produced using a special fixture.

Abstract: A cryoprobe supports administration of an active agent to a location of cryogenic treatment. The cryoprobe may optionally be combined with a syringe to form a cryoprobe system; alternatively and optionally, the syringe may be external to the cryoprobe.

Abstract: The quick disconnect assembly includes a reusable assembly including a distal end having a male lip thereon; and, a disposable assembly having quick disconnect capabilities when utilized with the reusable assembly. The disposable assembly includes a stem section; a finger lock element; and, a detachable handle assembly. The finger lock element includes a distal finger lock element section having a threaded inner surface for engagement with a threaded outer surface of the stem section; and, a plurality of radially spaced fingers extending proximally from the distal finger lock element section. Each finger has a) a ramped surface for operatively engaging an associated ramp section on the stem section during use; and, b) a female lip at a proximal end thereof. The detachable handle assembly includes a proximal handle section having a distal end having an inner surface that is operatively engaged with an outer surface of the finger lock element so as to resist relative rotation and axial motion therebetween.

Abstract: A cryosurgical system providing for temperature control of individual cryoprobes so as to simplify and increase treatment flexibility in cryoablation procedures. The cryosurgical system provides individual control of multiple cryoprobes in a closed-loop refrigeration circuit. The individual control allows the simultaneous use of multiple cryoprobes in a procedure. Typically six to eight probes are used but additional probes and control thereof is contemplated by this invention. The primary refrigeration circuit's compressor can also be utilized to generate pressurized hot vapor for heating the probe ends. In order to direct the pressurized hot vapor to the probe ends, an internal valving and control system reverses the direction of pressurized gas flow through the cryoprobes, delivering the hot gas immediately to the ends by bypassing the heat exchangers. Thus each cryoprobe can be independently controllable to provide full, partial or no freezing or heating at any time.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a cryoprobe including heating capabilities within the cryoprobe tip for use in a cryosurgical system. A heating element can be operably secured to an inner surface of the cryoprobe tips, wherein the heating element can then be connected to an electrical current source such that heat is generated at the cryoprobe tip as the electrical current flows through the heating element. In one version, the heating element can comprise a resistive element laminated between layers of insulation while in other, alternative versions, the heating element can comprise a small diameter resistance wire attached directly to an inner surface within the cryoprobe tip. The cryoprobe can include a thermocouple secured within the cryoprobe tip so as to take temperature measurements during both freezing and thawing cycles. In some versions, the heating element can be operably secured within the cryoprobe tip using an expanding or rotating mandrel.

Abstract: A cryosurgical system and a cryoprobe having a disposable portion for use in such a system. A representative cryoprobe for use in a cryosurgical system can have a disposable portion that connects via a coupler to a non-disposable portion that is permanently attached to the cryosurgical system. A vacuum pump located in a control console of the cryosurgical system can be used to remove air that is introduced into the system when the disposable portion is connected to the non-disposable portion. Refrigerant can then be circulated through the system so that a cryothermal treatment can be performed. After the cryothermal treatment, the refrigerant can be removed from the cryoprobe and stored in a storage reservoir in the control console. Upon completion of the cryosurgical treatment, the disposable portion can then be detached and discarded.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for connecting disposable and non-disposable portions of a cryoprobe for use with a cryosurgical treatment system. Representative cryoprobes can include a disposable and non-disposable portion joined with a connector such as a coupler for connecting a single disposable portion to a single non-disposable portion. A representative coupler can include coupler ports into which connecting ends of fluid delivery tubes within the disposable and non-disposable portions can fluidly connect. A manifold mounting plate can include a plurality of slots into which disposable portions can be fluidly interconnected to non-disposable portions.

Abstract: A cryoprobe for use in a cryosurgical system in which the probe tip has an increased surface area by having a corrugated, waved, or otherwise ridged configuration in its inner and outer surfaces. The increased surface area functions to provide greater surface area on the probe tip, and thus greater heat transfer, between the refrigerant and inner surface of the cryoprobe and between the outer surface of the cryoprobe and the target tissue.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention includes a device for use in a surgical procedure. The device includes a first curved portion for holding a top portion of a surgical probe; a second curved portion for holding a handle of the surgical probe, wherein the first curved portion and the second curved portion are adjoined through a frame; and an attachment at a bottom of the device, wherein the attachment can attach the device to a tripod.

Abstract: A cryosurgical system and related methods of utilizing distinct freeze and thaw fluids to selectively freeze or thaw tissue as part of a cryosurgical treatment plan. A closed loop cryosurgical system can include a control console, a cryocooler, a freeze tank, a thaw tank as well as fluid supply and fluid return lines operably interconnecting one or more cryoprobes with the freeze and thaw tank. At the direction of the control console, the cryocooler is used to cool a freeze fluid in the freeze tank while a heating element in the thaw tank is used to head a thaw fluid in the thaw tank. By using distinctly controlled reservoirs of freeze and thaw fluid, the cryosurgical system is able to quickly cycle back and forth between freeze and thaw cycles conducted as part of a cryosurgical treatment.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for use in the selective disruption of lipid-rich cells by controlled cooling. The present invention further relates to a device for use in carrying out the methods for selective disruption of lipid-rich cells by controlled cooling.

Abstract: Several embodiments of a method for treating pain associated with liquid nitrogen therapy and an assembly are disclosed. The method comprises comprising the steps of administering liquid nitrogen to an epidermal lesion; and applying a topical anesthetic to the epidermal lesion during or after a thaw cycle of liquid nitrogen to achieve anesthesia.

Abstract: A system for treating lung tissue includes a tube having a distal end, an anchoring device secured to the tube, the anchoring device configured to anchor at least a portion of the tube against an esophagus, a trachea, or a bronchus; and an ablation device carried within a lumen of the tube.

Abstract: The threaded cryostat for a cryosurgical probe system includes an outer tube and a hollow elongated threaded element positioned within the outer tube. The threaded element has integral, external threads that extend from on an outer surface thereof. During operation a working fluid is transported in a first direction between a fluid supply line and a distal end of a cryosurgical probe within a first space defined within the threaded element. Working fluid is transported in a second direction between the distal end of the cryosurgical probe and the fluid supply line within a second space defined between the outer tube and the threaded element.

Abstract: A laser energy delivery device is provided that is suitable for irradiating a body tissue with relatively long wavelength laser energy in the presence of an aqueous liquid without significant absorption of the laser energy by the liquid. The device includes an elongate hollow sheath that has an open aperture at its distal end portion and closed at its proximal end, a laser energy conduit such as an optical fiber or hollow wave guide, within the sheath, the distal end of the conduit being disposed near the open aperture at the distal end portion of the sheath, and the proximal end of the conduit being adapted for connection to a source of long wavelength laser energy. The sheath also includes an inlet port, spaced from the proximal end of the sheath, and adapted to receive and deliver a biologically compatible gas through the sheath to a body tissue site in contact with the open distal end of the sheath.

Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatus, systems, and methods utilizing cryogenic cooling in an angioplasty balloon catheter for treatment of arterial stenosis and prevention of restenosis. More particularly, the present invention relates to an angioplasty balloon catheter utilizing expansion of compressed gas to effect Joule-Thomson cooling of an angioplasty balloon, and optionally further incorporating external temperature sensors utilizable to identify a locus for treatment of arterial stenosis. The present invention further relates to angioplasty treatment systems incorporating such a catheter, and to cryogenic angioplasty methods for treating arterial stenosis and discouraging restenosis.

Abstract: A medical device is provided having a means for actuating a pair of opposing jaw members. The jaw members are movable relative to one another from a first position, wherein the jaw members are disposed in a spaced apart relation relative to one another, to a second position, wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. An ablation tool is connected to at least one of the jaws members, such that the jaw members are capable of conducting ablation energy through the tissue grasped therebetween.

Abstract: A natural spinal disk including adjacent vertebral structures is removed from a deceased donor, rinsed in normal saline, preserved in a cryopreservative solution, and then frozen by gradually decreasing the temperature using liquid nitrogen or similar method. The implant may be thawed in normal saline solution and then implanted in a patient in need of a vertebral disk replacement.

Abstract: A closed loop cryosurgical system utilizing a plurality of cryoprobes to perform a cryosurgical treatment. The cryoprobes individually connect to a manifold portion of the cryosurgical system with a quick-connect coupling. Each cryoprobe includes a flexible conduit portion that is vacuum insulated leaving a freeze length of a probe end portion exposed on which ice ball formation may occur. The insulation space may be evacuated through an insulation channel by one or more of a getter chamber located within the cryostat, a vacuum pump located within the console, or by activation of one of the console compressors to pull the gases out of the insulation space prior to introduction of refrigerant into the circuit. The fluid pathways through which refrigerant travels through the console, cryostat, couplers, and cryoprobes can also be evacuated prior to a cryosurgical procedure.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for reducing the likelihood of post operative atrial fibrillation by cooling specific nerves in the heart. In an exemplary method, a semi-rigid probe having a distal portion capable of cooling tissue to temperatures below freezing, is placed on tissue proximate cardiac nerves to temporarily or permanently inhibit signal conduction in the nerves.

Abstract: The present invention provides a surgical device including an elongate body defining a fluid flow path therethrough. An expandable element may be coupled to the elongate body and placed in fluid communication with the fluid flow path. Moreover, the surgical device may include a first leak detection element at least partially surrounding a portion of the expandable element, and a second leak detection element may be provided in fluid communication with the fluid flow path. In addition, a console may be provided, where the console may be in communication with the first and second leak detection elements. Further, a supply of cryogenic fluid as well as a vacuum source may be provided in fluid communication with the fluid flow path.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for insulating tissue during therapeutic procedures.

Abstract: A coolant system for a cryoablation or treatment probe such as a mapping or ablation catheter, or a treatment wand, includes a compressor and condenser having a low pressure inlet side and a high pressure outlet side, wherein the outlet side passes through a heat exchanger and is cooled by the inlet side and conditioned for injection to a catheter inlet. A vacuum return system connectable to the catheter outlet draws thermally expended coolant from the catheter and returns it to the low pressure inlet side. A motorized pressure regulator between the heat exchanger and the catheter inlet determines the pressure of coolant passing into the catheter and thus regulates the cooling rate for a selected mapping or ablation regimen. The low pressure compressor inlet supply preferentially conditions the pressurized coolant to ambient temperature or lower before injection into the catheter, allowing the coolant to travel through the body at ambient before expansion in the tip.

Abstract: A medical probe assembly, system, and methods for the use thereof to treat tissue are described. The system optionally comprises an energy source, two internally-cooled probe assemblies, and one or more cooling devices to provide cooling to at least one of the probe assemblies. The probe assemblies may be configured in a bipolar mode, whereby current flows preferentially between the probe assemblies. The probe assemblies and system described herein are particularly useful to deliver radio frequency energy to a patient's body. RF energy delivery may be used for various applications, including the treatment of pain, tumor ablation and cardiac ablation.

Abstract: Low temperature lesion formation apparatus, systems and methods. The apparatus includes a base member and an inflatable element carried by the base member.

Abstract: Clamp based low temperature lesion formation apparatus, systems and methods.

Abstract: An enhanced method and device are provided to treat atrial fibrillation or inhibit or reduce restenosis following angioplasty or stent placement. A balloon-tipped catheter is disposed in the area treated or opened through balloon angioplasty immediately following angioplasty. The balloon, which can have a dual balloon structure, may be delivered through a guiding catheter and over a guidewire already in place. A fluid such as a perfluorocarbon flows into the balloon to freeze the tissue adjacent the balloon, this cooling being associated with reduction of restenosis. A similar catheter may be used to reduce atrial fibrillation by inserting and inflating the balloon such that an exterior surface of the balloon contacts at least a partial circumference of the portion of the pulmonary vein adjacent the left atrium. In another embodiment, blood perfusion is performed simultaneously.

Abstract: Clamp based low temperature lesion formation apparatus, systems and methods.

Abstract: Skin disorders such as, for example, atopic dermatitis, dyshidrosis, eczema, lichen planus, psoriasis, and vitiligo, are treated by applying high doses of ultraviolet light to diseased regions of a patient's skin. The dosage exceeds 1 MED, as determined for the particular patient and may range from about 1 MED to about 20 MED or higher. The ultraviolet light has a wavelength within the range of about 295 nanometers to about 320 nanometers. High doses of ultraviolet light are restricted to diseased tissue areas The skin can be cooled prior to and/or during exposure to UV light to minimize tissue damage resulting from exposure to the UV light. Higher doses of UV light can therefore be employed without injurious affects.

Abstract: Disclosed is a cryosurgical catheter which is heated in order to prevent its freezing within the lumen of an endoscope. The catheter is to be used with an endoscope to perform cryoablation on an internal tissue; e.g., the esophagus. Electric conductivity to produce heat employs an electrical conductive coating on the catheter. Also, disclosed is a fitting for use with a catheter comprising both a connection for receiving gas and an electrical connection.

Abstract: A method of treatment of lower extremity body pain is described comprising freezing a portion of the lower extremity, for example, for cryoanalgesia. In one form, a method of treating a Morton's neuroma comprises freezing the neuroma in the foot. In another preferred form, a method of treating plantar fasciitis comprises freezing a tissue portion in or adjacent to the foot. The methods include inserting a cryogenic probe through a skin surface for percutaneous access to a region for cryoanalgesia, and operating the probe to provide one or more successive freeze cycles.

Abstract: Method of carrying out the cryogenic therapy, particularly on the whole body of one or several patient/s, characterized in that said patient/s are introduced along a transport route through the upper part of a chamber and then through the interior of said chamber, wherein said chamber has thermally insulated walls and a space containing a deposited low temperature cooling agent. The patient/s are then led to a cryogenic treatment cabin having a very low temperature from ?60.c to ?160.c with exposure times ranging from 0.5 to 5 minutes, whereafter said patient/s leave said treatment cabin through the interior of said chamber and further along said transport route outside chamber to an area at room temperature. The corresponding device for carrying out cryogenic therapy is characterized by a chamber with an open upper part and by a separated cryogenic treatment cabin inside said chamber said cabin being cooled in its whole volume by a cooling agent in the form of liquid air sprayed by nozzles.

Abstract: A cryostat (1) having a sealable housing (2) is described, the housing (2) enclosing a coolable cryostat chamber (3). For cooling the cryostat chamber (3), a refrigeration device (4), a control system (5) and a power supply (6) are provided. For cutting frozen samples, a microtome is arranged in the cryostat chamber (3). A temperature-controllable heating plate (7) is integrated into the housing (2) of the cryostat (1), outside the cryostat chamber (3).

Abstract: A tissue ablation probe, system, and method are provided. The ablation probe comprises an elongated member, an ablative element mounted on the distal end of the elongated member, and at least one thermoelectric device mounted to the member in thermal communication with the ablative element. The system may include the ablation probe, thermal control circuitry for controlling the thermal effect of the thermoelectric device, and an ablation source for suppying ablation energy to the ablative element. A plurality of circumferentially distributed thermoelectric devices can be provided, so that radial tissue sectors can be selectively affected by independently controlling the thermal effect of the thermoelectric devices. In one embodiment, the thermoelectric device(s) can be used to cool a heat ablative element. In another embodiment, the thermoelectric device(s) can be used to heat an ablative element, thereby forming a heat ablative element.

Abstract: A cryogenic medical system includes a medical device and a console connectable to the medical device at a connection point. The console controls the temperature of the medical device. The console includes a first cooling system directing coolant to the medical device at a first temperature along a coolant supply line and a second cooling system chilling the coolant within the coolant supply line to a temperature below the first temperature before the coolant reaches the connection point.

Abstract: A cryosurgical probe system includes a fluid supply line connectable at an inlet section to a source of cryogenic fluid; a fluid connector assembly securely connected to an outlet section of the fluid supply line for receiving fluid from the outlet section of the fluid supply line; and, a detachable cryosurgical probe detachably connectable to the fluid connector assembly. The cryosurgical probe system includes the capability of providing return fluid flow.

Abstract: A travel pillow has one or more air filters and a body with a soft material coupled to the one or more air filters. The air filters can be powered by a power source located within the pillow. The one or more air filters can have an air intake and an air outflow in communication with an exterior surface of the body. The air filters may be an electrostatic precipitator filter or use a filtering material to clean the air.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for using a secondary refrigerant to precool and liquefy a primary refrigerant, then vaporizing and expanding the primary refrigerant to cool a cold tip of a cryosurgical instrument for ablation of biological tissue, such as cardiovascular tissue, in particular endocardiac tissue and tissue inside a cardiac blood vessel. The secondary refrigerant has a critical temperature above the critical temperature of the primary refrigerant, and a cooling temperature below the critical temperature of the primary refrigerant, thereby facilitating the use of the precooling step to provide liquid primary refrigerant in an operating room environment in which the primary refrigerant could not otherwise be provided in the liquid phase.