Abstract: An energy delivery system includes an RF synthesizer circuit configured to generate an RF electric signal and a preamplification stage operably coupled to the RF synthesizer circuit. The preamplification stage has at least one attenuator. A board controller is operably coupled to the attenuator of the preamplification stage that is configured to modify a gain setting of the attenuator. An output connection is configured to provide a low-power signal or a high-power signal based on at least the RF electric signal and the gain setting. The low-power signal or high-power signal is provided to an RF applicator configured to couple an alternating RF electric field to animal tissue.

Abstract: Catheter apparatuses, systems, and methods for achieving renal neuromodulation by intravascular access are disclosed herein. One aspect of the present technology, for example, is directed to a treatment device having a direct heating element configured to be delivered to a renal blood vessel. The treatment device is selectively transformable between a delivery or low-profile state and a deployed state. The direct heating element is housed within an occlusion element which is sized and shaped so that the direct heating element contacts an interior wall of the occlusion element, an outer wall of which is simultaneously in contact with the inner wall of a renal blood vessel when the treatment assembly is in the deployed state. The direct heating element is configured to apply thermal energy to heat neural fibers that contribute to renal function.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices for evaluating the integrity of a uterine cavity. A method comprises introducing transcervically a probe into a patient's uterine cavity, providing a flow of a fluid (e.g., CO2) through the probe into the uterine cavity and monitoring the rate of the flow to characterize the uterine cavity as perforated or non-perforated based on a change in the flow rate.

Abstract: A surgical system is disclosed. The surgical system includes a monopolar return pad and a surgical hub wirelessly coupled to the monopolar return pad. The surgical hub includes a control circuit configured to determined a presence and a position of a patient on the monopolar return pad according to data received from the monopolar return pad.

Abstract: A medical device comprises a housing and a sheath having opposed proximal and distal ends and being attached from the proximal end to the housing. An end effector is attached to the distal end portion of the sheath. The end effector includes a pair of grasping jaws capable of be openable and closable with respect to one another. A movable shaft includes a distal end that being connected at to the end effector and configured to be movable with respect to the sheath so as to cause the paired grasping jaws to be opened or closed with respect to one another. A movable handle is configured to pivot with respect to the housing and having an input position where an operation is inputted so as to cause the handle to pivot. The movable shaft is changeable in an initial state before the operation is inputted at the input position.

Abstract: An endovascular near critical fluid based cryoablation catheter for creating an elongated lengthwise-continuous lesion in tissue can comprise an elongated shaft, a flexible distal tissue treatment section, and a distal tip. A plurality of flexible tubes can extend through the distal treatment section to transport a near critical fluid to and from the distal tip. The distal treatment section can also include a flexible fluid-sealed cover or barrier layer surrounding the delivery tubes. The cover and tubes can collectively define a space which is filled with a fluidic thermally conductive media. The thermally conductive media, fluid delivery tubes, and the cover can be arranged such that a flow of the near critical fluid through the tube bundle transfers heat between a target tissue and the distal treatment section of the catheter thereby creating the elongated lengthwise-continuous lesion in the tissue.

Abstract: An image processing model generation method includes: inputting at least one training sample lesion image into an initial image processing model, the initial image processing model including a classification layer and a marking layer; calling the classification layer; calling the marking layer; obtaining a loss value of the at least one training sample lesion image in the initial image processing model; determining whether the loss value is within a preset range; if not, updating parameters of the initial image processing model, an image processing model with updated parameters being used as an initial image processing model in next training; and repeating above steps until the loss value is within the preset range.

Abstract: An apparatus includes an interface and a processor. The interface is configured for exchanging signals with: (i) a probe, which is inserted into a body of a patient and includes a flexible distal-end assembly, wherein the distal-end assembly comprises a magnetic position sensor and two or more intra-body electrodes, and, (ii) multiple body-surface electrodes attached externally to the body of the patient. The processor is configured to estimate, based on the signals exchanged with the probe, a spatial displacement of the magnetic sensor between consecutive measurements, and to estimate a position of the distal-end assembly in the body based on (i) the signals exchanged with the intra-body electrodes and the body-surface electrodes, (ii) a-priori known spatial relationships between two or more of the intra-body electrodes of the probe and (iii) the estimated spatial displacement of the magnetic sensor.

Abstract: An unattended approach can increase the reproducibility and safety of the treatment as the chance of over/under treating of a certain area is significantly decreased. On the other hand, unattended treatment of uneven or rugged areas can be challenging in terms of maintaining proper distance or contact with the treated tissue, mostly on areas which tend to differ from patient to patient (e.g. facial area). Delivering energy via a system of active elements embedded in a flexible pad adhesively attached to the skin offers a possible solution. The unattended approach may include delivering of multiple energies to enhance a visual appearance.

Abstract: An implantable wireless lead includes an enclosure, the enclosure housing: one or more electrodes configured to apply one or more electrical pulses to a neural tissue; a first antenna configured to: receive, from a second antenna and through electrical radiative coupling, an input signal containing electrical energy, the second antenna being physically separate from the implantable neural stimulator lead; one or more circuits electrically connected to the first antenna, the circuits configured to: create the one or more electrical pulses suitable for stimulation of the neural tissue using the electrical energy contained in the input signal; and supply the one or more electrical pulses to the one or more electrodes, wherein the enclosure is shaped and arranged for delivery into a subject's body through an introducer or a needle.

Abstract: A laser surgical method for performing a corneal incision while maintaining iris exposure below a predetermined exposure limit includes determining an initial iris exposure based on an initial treatment scan, determining whether the initial iris exposure is less than the predetermined exposure limit, generating a revised treatment scan comprising one or more treatment scan modifying elements when the initial iris exposure is greater than the predetermined exposure limit, and scanning the focal zone of a pulsed laser beam according to the revised treatment scan, thereby performing the corneal incision, wherein the one or more treatment scan modifying elements causes the iris exposure to be smaller than the predetermined exposure limit.

Abstract: A power controller device and system allows verification, monitoring, and control of an arteriovenous (AV) fistula creation catheter which comprises a main housing having a power supply, an embedded electronic controller and a user interface display, and which is configured to allow connection to an intravascular catheter. When activated, the device verifies that a valid catheter is connected, downloads stored manufacturing calibration data from the catheter, and provides a user interface to allow initiation of AV fistula creation. Once creation of the AV fistula is initiated, the device provides closed loop control of the catheter heating element and provides a means of monitoring the catheter temperature and tip position to a prescribed parameter to automate the arteriovenous fistula creation procedure.

Abstract: Apparatus for delivering a therapeutic agent to a uterine cavity including an elongated member having a fluid channel for passage of the therapeutic agent into the uterine cavity, a dispensing member extending distally of the elongated member and having at least one perforation for passage of the therapeutic agent into the uterine cavity into contact with the endometrium. An infusion line is in communication with the fluid channel for passage of a fluid into the uterine cavity to assess leakage to determine integrity of the uterine cavity prior to passage of the therapeutic agent into the uterine cavity.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods are provided in which movement of a tool is controlled based on sensed parameters. In one embodiment, an electromechanical tool is provided having an instrument shaft and an end effector formed thereon. The electromechanical tool is configured to be mounted on an electromechanical arm, and the electromechanical tool is configured to move with or relative to the electromechanical arm and perform surgical functions. A controller is operatively coupled to the electromechanical arm and the electromechanical tool and is configured to retard advancement of the electromechanical tool toward a tissue surface based on a sensed amount of displacement of a tissue surface, a strain on the tissue of the patient, the temperature of the electromechanical tool, or the like.

Abstract: Disclosed are a deep body spread microwave hyperthermia device for personal uses and an operation method thereof. The operating method may include generating a control signal to control patches attached to the skin of a user, dividing the control signal into a first signal and a second signal having a phase different from a phase of the first signal, transmitting the first signal and the second signal to patches attached to different positions, among the patches, and producing hyperthermia in a body of the user by radiating radio waves based on the first signal or the second signal received by each of the patches.

Abstract: A system includes a probe, a processor, and a bubble detector. The probe is configured for insertion into a lumen of a patient and is coupled to an irrigation pump. The processor is configured to control delivery of irrigation fluid to the probe by turning on and controlling the irrigation pump. The bubble detector is coupled to a proximal portion of the probe. In response to the irrigation pump being turned on, the bubble detector is configured to automatically start detection of gas bubbles in the irrigated fluid, and transmit fail-safe signals indicating fail-safe bubble detection is operational. The processor is further configured to monitor the fail-safe signals and, in absence of fail-safe signals, to automatically disable delivery of the irrigation fluid.

Abstract: Electrical instrument for applying radiofrequency and/or microwave frequency energy to tissue, comprising: a distal part comprising an instrument tip for applying radiofrequency and/or microwave frequency energy to tissue, the instrument tip comprising first and second conductive elements; a coaxial feed cable comprising an inner conductor, a tubular outer conductor coaxial with the inner conductor, and dielectric material separating the inner and outer conductors, the coaxial feed cable being for conveying radiofrequency and/or microwave frequency energy to the distal part; wherein: the inner conductor is electrically connected to the first conductive element and the outer conductor is electrically connected to the second conductive element through a rotatable connection between the distal part and the coaxial feed cable that allows rotation of the distal part relative to the coaxial feed cable; and the instrument comprises an actuator for rotating the distal part in a first rotational direction relative to

Abstract: A method of forming a microwave applicator comprising forming a body comprising dielectric material so that there is a void in the dielectric material, and depositing conductive material in the void to form a feed for coupling energy into the dielectric material.

Abstract: A modular energy system including a header module configured to removably connect to an energy module. The energy module can comprise a port configured to deliver one or more energy modalities to a surgical instrument connected thereto. The header module can comprise a display screen configured to display a user interface. The header module can further include a control circuit configured to detect attachment of energy modules to the modular energy system and control the display of the user interface to display UI portions for each connected module and reconfigure the displayed UI portions to accommodate the new UI portions as additional energy modules are connected to the modular energy system.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (17) for treatment of body tissue, in particular for the permanent occlusion of varicose veins, preferably in the lower limbs, of varicocele and/or of vascular malformations and/or for the use in aesthetic surgeries, preferably laser assisted lipolysis, and/or for tumor treatment by means of laser induced thermotherapy and/or photodynamic therapy, by means of a light diffuser (13) circumferentially and endoluminally irradiating said tissue by laser light energy, said diffuser (13) being connected at its proximal end to a source (10) of laser light energy via a flexible wave guide (12) comprising a fiber optic core (1) covered by an optical cladding (2) having a refractive index smaller than that of the core (1), wherein in the cladding (2) and/or in the core (1) imperfections (18) are provided, designed as recesses and adapted to direct the light, preferably to refract and/or reflect the light propagating within the core (1) and/or its optical cladding (2) in generally radial

Abstract: At a distal portion of a shaft of a guide portion included in a medical device, a first portion is configured to be capable of coming into contact with an inner wall of a living organ. A second portion is disposed on a proximal side of the shaft with respect to the first portion. The second position is configured to be capable of coming into contact with the inner wall of the living organ at a position different from that of the first portion on a transverse cross section of the inner wall of the living organ. A treatment portion is movable in a lumen of the shaft in a state where at least a part of the first portion and at least a part of the second portion come into contact with the inner wall of the living organ.

Abstract: Electrical instrument for applying radiofrequency and/or microwave frequency energy to tissue, comprising: a distal part comprising an instrument tip for applying radiofrequency and/or microwave frequency energy to tissue, the instrument tip comprising first and second conductive elements; a coaxial feed cable comprising an inner conductor, a tubular outer conductor coaxial with the inner conductor, and dielectric material separating the inner and outer conductors, the coaxial feed cable being for conveying radiofrequency and/or microwave frequency energy to the distal part; wherein: the inner conductor is electrically connected to the first conductive element and the outer conductor is electrically connected to the second conductive element through a rotatable connection between the distal part and the coaxial feed cable that allows rotation of the distal part relative to the coaxial feed cable; and the instrument comprises an actuator for rotating the distal part in a first rotational direction relative to

Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure include a surgical device comprising electrodes on the sides of an end of an effector to aide in sealing during various surgical procedures, such as a liver resection. During a sealing procedure, the surgeon may wipe the surgical site with the end effector, causing the electrodes to touch the fractured area. Electrosurgical energy may be applied to the electrodes during the wiping, causing coagulation of smaller vessels, such as tiny blood vessels and bile ducts in the parenchyma of the liver. In some cases, due to the nature of some smaller vessels, electrosurgical energy should be delicately applied to cause sealing but to avoid overly damaging the remaining tissue. In some embodiments, the thin design of the electrodes allows for an appropriate amount of electrosurgical energy to be applied to the fractured area.

Abstract: An on-body antenna is provided that overcomes mismatch loss problems associated with current on-body antennas and is capable of operating over a wide range of frequencies with low transmission loss. At least a first antenna element of the on-body antenna is configured to receive an oscillating electric current and to radiate an oscillating electromagnetic field over a predetermined range of frequencies. The first antenna element is made of non-electrically-conductive material having a first relative permittivity. At least a second material having a second relative permittivity can be disposed on or in the first antenna element. Disposing the second material provides the first antenna element with an effective permittivity that can be closely matched to a frequency-dependent permittivity of biological tissue of a subject. The first non-electrically-conductive material and the second material can be preselected to have relative permittivities that allow anisotropy to be achieved.

Abstract: Surgical devices and methods for utilizing optical coherence tomography (OCT) to monitor and control tissue sealing are disclosed. The surgical device includes an end effector assembly that includes first and second jaw members that are movable between a first, spaced-apart position and a second proximate position. An OCT system, at least a portion of which is incorporated into the end effector assembly, is configured to sense properties of the tissue, e.g., the structural density of the tissue, disposed between the first and second jaw members. A tissue-sealing energy source may be disposed within at least one of the jaw members and may provide tissue-sealing energy to tissue disposed between the jaw members. A controller, which is coupled to the OCT system and the tissue-sealing energy source, controls the tissue-sealing energy generated by the tissue-sealing energy source based on the properties of the tissue sensed by the OCT system.

Abstract: A pulsed laser skin treatment device is for laser induced optical breakdown of hair or skin tissue. The device has a light exit window to be placed against a surface to be treated such as skin during use. A feedback system is used for determining a state of contact between the light exit window and the surface. To this end the feedback system is capable of detecting a feedback signal representative for the state of contact. If the feedback signal or the state of contact is such that the risk of skin surface or device damage by the device operation is too high, the user or the device has a way to interrupt the treatment or to reduce light output to reduce or eliminate this risk.

Abstract: A control method is provided to manage a surgical robot having an arm configured to hold a medical tool. The method includes receiving a set of sensor signals from sensors on the arm, generating a profile based on the set of sensor signals, comparing the profile to at least one signature, determining a state of the arm based on results of the comparison, and changing operation of the arm based on the state of the arm. The state of the arm is indicative of a predetermined condition that has occurred or will likely occur eminently. Changing operation of the arm prevents the condition from occurring or continuing. The robot arm may hold a medical tool for using during surgery or another medical procedure.

Abstract: A wireless intraluminal imaging device and an associated system are provided. In one embodiment, the wireless intraluminal imaging device includes a flexible elongate member including a proximal portion and a distal portion; an ultrasound imaging component coupled to the distal portion of the flexible elongate member; a cable coupled to the ultrasound imaging component and extending along the flexible elongate member; and a wireless communication component coupled to the proximal portion of the flexible elongate member, the wireless communication component in communication with the ultrasound imaging component via the cable. The wireless communication component wirelessly transmits ultrasound echo signals collected by the ultrasound imaging component to an image processing system via a wireless link for image generation at the image processing component.

Abstract: The inventive concept relates to a needle tip for application of current, a hand piece, and a skin treatment apparatus that are equipped with a needle in which an electromagnetically-energized active region is formed as a partial region other than a tip end of the needle is exposed in a non-insulated state.

Abstract: An example method includes obtaining an image of a lead implanted in a patient, the lead including one or more electrodes positioned along a longitudinal axis of the lead and a plurality of orientation markers; determining, in the image, respective locations of the electrodes and respective locations of the orientation markers; obtaining a template model corresponding to the lead; determining a transform between the determined locations of the one or more electrodes and the plurality of orientation markers and locations of corresponding electrodes and orientation markers in the template model; and determining the rotational orientation of the lead based on the transform.

Abstract: A surgical apparatus system for minimally invasive surgery (MIS) which includes a wrist assembly. The wrist assembly includes a first jaw, a first actuation hub, and a cable redirecting hub operably coupled to the first actuation hub, a second jaw, a second actuation hub, a housing for the first and second jaws, a first cable, a second cable, a third cable, rotational position sensors, and a control system. The first and second jaws of the wrist assembly are movably opposed, and the cables are configured such that applying tensions upon them cables produces rotation about a jaw axis. The wrist assembly may further include a hinge-rotary assembly to configured to provide rotation about a pitch axis and/or a roll axis. The wrist assembly may further include a fourth cable configured such that applying tensions upon the fourth cable and the opposing cable produces rotation about a pitch axis.

Abstract: A plasma gun for treating a tumor in vivo and a use method thereof. The plasma gun includes a generator component including an ionization device and a shield element, and a discharge component. The ionization device is provided at the shield element, and the discharge component is connected to an end of the shield element. The present invention overcomes the problem that a low-temperature plasma jet cannot contact a tumor in vivo. The plasma gun reaches the interior of the tumor, promoting the treatment of the plasma to the tumors. It is suitable for the application in clinical treatment. As compared with the conventional radiotherapy, chemotherapy and surgery, the present invention has the advantages of selectivity on cancer cells and little side effects. The plasma directly reaches the tumor lesion, which has good therapeutic effect and avoids the impact on normal tissues.

Abstract: A surgical probe includes a connection hub, an antenna assembly, and an outer jacket. The antenna assembly is coupled to the connection hub, extends distally from the connection hub, and includes a radiating portion coupled thereto at the distal end thereof. The radiating portion is configured to deliver energy to tissue to treat tissue. The outer jacket is coupled to the connection hub, extends distally therefrom, and is disposed about the radiating portion. The outer jacket includes a distal end member configured to be spaced-apart from the radiating portion a target axial distance. One or more of the couplings between the antenna assembly and the connection hub, the radiating portion and the antenna assembly, and the outer jacket and the connection hub defines a flexible configuration permitting axial movement therebetween to maintain the target axial distance between the radiating portion and the distal end member.

Abstract: The present invention relates to comprehensive systems, devices and methods for delivering energy to tissue for a wide variety of applications, including medical procedures (e.g., tissue ablation, resection, cautery, vascular thrombosis, treatment of cardiac arrhythmias and dysrhythmias, electrosurgery, tissue harvest, etc.). In certain embodiments, systems, devices, and methods are provided for delivering energy to difficult to access tissue regions (e.g. peripheral lung tissues), and/or reducing the amount of undesired heat given off during energy delivery.

Abstract: A device and method are disclosed for an elastic strip with a first fixed end and a second movable end, the elastic strip configured to be in at least one of a tense state and an elastic state. A release mechanism is configured to maintain the elastic strip in a tense state when the release mechanism is in a holding state, and configured to release the elastic strip when in a release state. A needle path with a first bend is provided. A rigid needle is configured to traverse a first portion of the needle path when the elastic strip is in the elastic state and a cannula is located in the needle path and configured to traverse a second portion of the needle path when the rigid needle traverses the first portion of the needle path.

Abstract: A microwave ablation probe (200; 300; 400), comprising: an applicator (202; 302; 402) arranged to apply microwave radiation to heat surrounding tissue; a feeding cable (204; 304; 404) arranged to supply electromagnetic energy to the applicator; a coolant flow path (206) via which coolant is able to flow; and a choke arranged to reduce power reflected from the applicator (202; 302; 402) along the feeding cable (204; 304; 404). The choke comprises a choke member (208; 209; 308; 408) cooled by coolant flowing in the coolant flow path (206). The choke member (208; 209; 308; 408) extends between two points spaced apart in a direction having at least a component parallel to a longitudinal axis of the feeding cable. The choke member (208; 209; 308; 408) comprises one or more turns extending around the longitudinal axis of the feeding cable. The choke member may be a spiral member (208; 308; 408).

Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a unibody intravascular catheter shaft with benefits which may include a reduced diameter, and independently tunable torquability, flexibility, and pushability characteristics. While various embodiments of the present disclosure may be directed to an entire catheter shaft, various specific embodiments of the present disclosure may be directed to a unibody shaft design, which may be implemented in a portion of a catheter shaft. For example, the unibody shaft design may be advantageously implemented in a proximal shaft portion. Moreover, various embodiments of the present disclosure utilize a modular unibody design, which may be utilized for various catheter shaft applications using an outer polymer layer with variable thickness and durometer to achieve application-specific performance characteristics (e.g., catheter shaft flex).

Abstract: Embodiments provide methods, apparatuses, and systems for fixation of a fractured bone with a bone plate. In various embodiments, the systems and plates provide elastic suspension of the receiving holes relative to an osteosynthesis plate. This elastic suspension can promote load distribution between the screws that connect a bone segment to the plate, thereby reducing stress risers and load shielding effect. In addition, stress at the screw holes, and within the construct as a whole, is reduced by incorporation of these elastic elements in the plate. Additionally, in some embodiments where fracture healing by callus formation is desired, elastic suspension of the receiving holes relative to the osteosynthesis plate can enable small, controlled amounts of relative motion between bone fragments connected by the plate. This relative motion can promote fracture healing by callus formation.

Abstract: An energy applicator for directing energy to tissue includes a feedline and a radiating section operably coupled to the feedline, wherein the radiating section has a length. The energy applicator also includes a length adjustment member adapted to allow for selective adjustment of the length of the radiating section. The length adjustment member includes a first pivot element and a first tensioning element coupled to the first pivot element.

Abstract: A variable-length microwave ablation probe is provided. The probe is configured to have a range of resonant frequencies. The probe includes a microwave antenna, an outer conductor, and a cap. The probe further includes a radiation window that is at least partially transparent to microwave energy. The distal boundary of the outer conductor or the proximal boundary of the cap varies in distance from the probe distal end. The probe can have a choke length, an arm length, a radiating portion length, and a cap length. The lengths can each affect the resonant frequency of the antenna. Some examples provide a variable choke length, a variable arm length, a variable radiating portion length, and/or a variable cap length.

Abstract: An electrosurgical system for treating tissue, including a first and second electrode; a high-frequency high-voltage supply unit which can be electrically connected to first and second electrode and is designed to supply a specified treatment alternating voltage to electrodes; and a measuring unit which can be electrically connected to first and second electrode and has a measurement voltage supply module that is designed to provide a measurement alternating voltage of at least one first and second frequency, wherein the measuring unit is additionally designed to receive an electric response signal for first and second frequency via first and second electrode and determine at least one property of a tissue located between first and second electrode therefrom. The electrosurgical system relates further to an electrosurgical generator for treating tissue, to a method of operating an electrosurgical system, to using electrosurgical system and to applying the method of operating an electrosurgical system.

Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument with a radiating tip portion having a relative permeability and/or relative permittivity that is selected to provide an electrical length for the radiating tip portion that enables effective delivery into biological tissue of microwave EM energy supplied thereto, at two or more frequencies of choice. The instrument has a radiating tip portion disposed to receive microwave EM energy from a coaxial cable, the radiating tip portion having a first effective relative permeability at a first frequency and a second effective relative permeability at a second frequency.

Abstract: An energy generator includes a connector port configured to couple to an electrosurgical instrument including an electrode having a polymeric dielectric coating; a power converter configured to generate energy; and a sensor coupled to the power converter and configured to sense a parameter of the energy. The energy generator also includes a controller coupled to the sensor and the power converter. The controller is configured to: control the power converter to output energy to modify an electrical property of the polymeric dielectric coating; and determine whether the electrical property of the polymeric dielectric coating has been sufficiently modified by the energy.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for treating a tissue with an electric treatment by rotating a pattern of electrodes partway through a treatment is disclosed. Also described herein are methods and apparatuses to treat tissue, including treating skin disorders, by selectively de-nucleating epidermal cells without provoking a significant inflammatory response, e.g., without increasing the density of leukocytes in the treated skin, and without affecting the non-cellular components of the dermis.

Abstract: A circular microwave ablation antenna is provided with a chamber for accommodating the coaxial cable and the conduit, the chamber and the conduit extend forward to the front end of the antenna. An emission window of the antenna is at least partially located in the conduit to enable the cooling medium to cool the emission window area of the antenna. The conduit of the microwave emission area is made of an insulation material, so that the microwave can radiate outward, and the rest of the conduit is made of a microwave shielding material. The choke ring located at the rear side of emission area is hermetically fixed to the conduit, so that the choke ring acts to block the microwave. A gap exists between the choke ring and the needle bar, and the gap is used for the backflow of the cooling medium.

Abstract: A surgical instrument comprises an end effector coupled to a distal end of a shaft. The end effector comprises a pair of jaw members configured to be moved relative to each other between open and closed positions, and a cutting element configured to cut material gripped between the jaw members. The cutting element is further configured to translate between and along a lengthwise direction of the jaw members. The cutting element and a first jaw member comprise complementary retaining features that cooperate to retain the cutting element in a position held by the first jaw member throughout a range of motion of the jaw members between the open and the closed position.

Abstract: An energy delivery system comprises a transmission member and an antenna at a distal end of the transmission member. The antenna includes a first conductive arm, an insulator extending around the first conductive arm, and a second conductive arm. The second conductive arm includes a coil. The system also comprises a barrier layer radially spaced from the insulator and surrounding the transmission member and antenna. The barrier layer extends from a proximal portion of the transmission member to a distal portion of the antenna. The system also comprises a jacket surrounding the barrier layer and forming a fluid channel for flow of a cooling fluid.

Abstract: Electromagnetic (EM) tissue ablation device comprising an EM field generator unit, at least two coaxial elongated elements (i.e. an external one and an internal one) and a mechanism for varying the EM field, wherein said internal element is a part of said generator and said mechanism being adapted to vary the EM field for a specific tissue area.

Abstract: A catheter assembly includes a catheter comprising a flexible elongated member including a distal portion that includes a tubular body defining an inner lumen and a plurality of body apertures that extend through a sidewall of the tubular body into the inner lumen, and a plurality of primary electrodes positioned along the tubular body. The catheter assembly includes a wire defining at least one secondary electrode, the wire being configured to be slidably moved through the inner lumen of the tubular body, where the wire and the plurality of primary electrodes are configured to electrically couple to an energy source that delivers an electrical pulse to a fluid in contact with the plurality of primary electrodes and the at least one secondary electrode to cause the fluid to undergo cavitation to generate a pressure pulse wave within the fluid.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a gripping assembly, a shaft assembly, an end effector, and a pivoting member. The gripping assembly defines a first opening for receiving a finger or a thumb of a user. The gripping assembly includes a first deformable feature that is configured to be moved in order to increase or decrease a cross-sectional area of the first opening. The shaft assembly extends distally from the gripping assembly. The end effector is positioned at a distal end of the shaft assembly and includes a first member. The pivoting member is pivotably coupled with the shaft assembly. The pivoting member is pivotable with respect to the first member of the end effector between an open position and a closed position to thereby clamp tissue between the first member and the pivoting member.