Abstract: In this treatment tool for endoscope, a sheath includes, at the distal end thereof, a tubular extended part having a predetermined thickness in the radially outward direction from an inner peripheral face of a first hole and extending further to the distal-end side, and a passive electrode is disposed such as to surround the outer periphery of the extended part.

Abstract: Systems, delivery devices, and methods to treat, ablate, damage, or otherwise affect tissue in an airway of a patient. The treatment systems are capable of delivering a coolable ablation assembly that ablates targeted tissue while cooling non-targeted tissue to protect the non-target tissue from damage. The coolable ablation assembly damages nerve tissue to temporarily or permanently decrease nervous system input.

Abstract: A bipolar sphincterotome may include an elongate tubular member, a cutting wire, and a return path. The return path may include a conductive ink portion disposed on an outer surface at a distal portion of the tubular member. The return path may also include a return wire disposed within the tubular member that is electrically coupled to the conductive ink portion. In some example embodiments, the return wire may be disposed within a lumen configured to have two or more functions, one of which being to house the return wire. Additionally, in some example embodiments, the conductive ink portion may be circumferentially disposed on the outer surface to provide visual access to a wire guide lumen. Also, for some example embodiments, the bipolar sphincterotome may include two electrically isolated return paths.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for performing various procedures using interchangeable end effectors. In general, the methods and devices allow a surgeon to remotely and selectively attach various interchangeable surgical end effectors to a shaft located within a patient's body, thus allowing the surgeon to perform various procedures without the need to remove the shaft from the patient's body. In an exemplary embodiment, multiple end effectors can be introduced into a body cavity. The end effectors can be disassociated or separate from one another such that they float within the body cavity. A distal end of a shaft can be positioned within the body cavity and it can be used to selectively engage one of the end effectors. In particular, the device can be configured to allow each end effector to be remotely attached and detached from the distal end of the shaft.

Abstract: A deflectable device, such as a catheter, is provided that includes a hinge that enhances the ability of the device to deflect or bend within a predetermined plane. The catheter comprises an elongated tubular catheter body having proximal and distal ends and at least one lumen extending therethrough. A distal segment is provided distal to the distal end of the catheter body. A tubular hinge is provided between the distal end of the catheter body and the proximal end of the distal segment. The hinge has an axis and at least one lumen extending therethrough. The tube includes at least one slot, and preferably a plurality of slots, extending part of the way through the hinge generally transverse to the axis of the hinge.

Abstract: A catheter structure is provided for use with an electroviscerogram (EVG) system. The catheter structure includes an elongated tube structure having distal and proximal ends. Three electrodes are associated with distal end of the tube structure and are constructed and arranged obtain signals relating to myoelectrical activity internally of an intra-abdominal organ to thereby locate targeted tissue that includes main pathways of electrical generation in the organ. Therapy delivery structure, associated with the distal end of the tube structure and separate from the electrodes, is constructed and arranged to provide therapy at the targeted tissue simultaneously as the electrodes obtain the signals at the targeted tissue so that effectiveness of the therapy can be monitored.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a device for use with an operating end of a uterine manipulator for sealing tissue that includes a shaft having a handle at an operating end thereof and a ring-like snare at a distal end thereof. The handle has an actuator operable to selectively cinch the snare from a first configuration to a second configuration. An electrode is operably coupled to the snare and is connected to an energy source to energize tissue to create a tissue seal. The shaft is positionable within a surgical cavity such that the snare encircles tissue and operably engages and cinches the operating end of the uterine manipulator under a sealing pressure. Energy is applied to the electrode to seal the tissue disposed between the uterine manipulator and the snare under a working pressure. The tissue may then be resected and removed from the body.

Abstract: Systems, delivery devices, and methods to treat, ablate, damage, or otherwise affect tissue in an airway of a patient. The treatment systems are capable of delivering a coolable ablation assembly that ablates targeted tissue while cooling non-targeted tissue to protect the non-targeted tissue from damage. The coolable ablation assembly damages nerve tissue to temporarily or permanently decrease nervous system input.

Abstract: An instrument set for the microinvasive treatment of stenoses of the spinal canal and/or other constrictions of the spinal canal, comprising a microinvasive access tube (1) having a distal end insertable into the body; an ablation device (2) having an ablation head (21) which can be accommodated in the access tube (1) and which can be directed out of the access tube (1) at the distal end and brought into at least one working position; a screening element (31) for screening the ablation head (21) in relation to the dura which can be accommodated in the access tube (1) and which can be directed out of the access tube (1) at the distal end and brought into at least one working position in which the screening element (31) laterally protrudes above the access tube (1).

Abstract: This treatment device for endoscope is used for cutting body tissue while the treatment device is retractably projected from a catheter. The treatment device includes: a control wire inserted into the catheter; and a cutting electrode mounted at the distal end of the control wire with the cutting electrode being imparted a bent configuration in advance. The cutting electrode elastically deforms in a state where the cutting electrode is retracted into the catheter, thereby assuming such a shape as to resemble the configuration of the catheter.

Abstract: A method for treating Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or chronic bronchitis to alleviate the discomforts of breathing by using non-thermal electroporation energy to ablate diseased portions of the lung including the bronchus, airways and alveoli which, in effect, opens the restrictive diseased portions thereby maximizing the overall surface area thereof causing improved airflow and uninhibited breathing.

Abstract: An electrosurgical device is provided for removing polyps from the gastrointestinal tract of a patient. In one implementation, an electrosurgical device comprises a snare support member and a snare positioning assembly mounted on an exterior surface of the snare support member. The snare positioning assembly has a longitudinal axis substantially parallel with and offset from the longitudinal axis of the snare support member. The device also includes a base member attached to a distal end of the snare support member and has a longitudinal axis substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the snare support member. An aperture is formed through a side wall of the base member. Also included is a polyp snare extending through a first channel of the snare positioning assembly, through the aperture, and through a second channel of the base member.

Abstract: A tissue cutting cap and a method of delivering energy to a tissue are provided. The tissue cutting cap includes a body having a proximal portion, a distal portion, a distal end, and a lumen extending at least partially therethrough. The tissue cutting cap also includes a cutting portion operably connected to the body where the cutting portion has at least one position where the cutting portion is positioned proximal to the distal end of the body and the cutting portion has a first side, a second side, an end and an opening defined by the first side and the second side. The proximal portion of the body is sized and shaped to fit on a distal end of an endoscope and the distal portion of the body extends distal to the distal end of the endoscope.

Abstract: An end effector assembly for use with an instrument for sealing and cutting tissue includes a pair of opposing first and second jaw members movable relative to the to grasp tissue therebetween. Each jaw member including a jaw housing and an electrically conductive surface adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the electrically conductive surfaces are capable of conducting electrosurgical energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a tissue seal. One of the electrically conductive surfaces including a channel defined therein and extending along a length thereof that communicates with a nozzle disposed in the jaw housing. The nozzle is configured to direct high pressure fluid from a fluid source into the channel for cutting tissue grasped between the jaw members.

Abstract: A snare device and methods of making and using the same. The snare device may include a sheath having a proximal end region, a distal end region, and a shaft slidably disposed therein. A handle may be coupled to the shaft and disposed adjacent the proximal end region. The snare device may also include a swivel disposed adjacent the distal end region of the sheath and coupled to the shaft and to a snare loop.

Abstract: An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes an elongated shaft having opposing jaw members at a distal end thereof. The jaw members are movable relative to one another from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. The forceps also includes a source of electrical energy connected to each jaw member such that the jaw members are capable of conducting energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a seal. A generally tube-like cutter is included which is slidably engaged about the elongated shaft and which is selectively movable about the elongated shaft to engage and cut tissue on at least one side of the jaw members while the tissue is engaged between jaw members.

Abstract: A device and method for treatment of a tissue specimen disposed in surrounding tissue has a tissue specimen isolating toot and a tissue specimen damager. The tissue specimen isolating tool isolates the tissue specimen from the surrounding tissue. The tissue specimen damager damages the tissue, with a possible end result being necrosis. The severing tool may have a cutting member that is extendable to an outwardly radially bowed position about device. The tissue specimen is isolated by rotating the cutting member about the tissue specimen. The cutting member may be functionally connected to a cutting member radio frequency generation source. The tissue specimen damager may damage the tissue specimen using ionizing radiation, cutting devices, thermal treatment devices, chemical treatment devices, or sealing an outer boundary of the tissue specimen.

Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to battery unit for use with surgical instruments. The battery units may comprise a plurality of cells and include a translatable discharge drain. When attached to the surgical instrument, the discharge drain may electrically connect an anode of the battery unit to a cathode of the battery unit, for example, via a resistive element in order to drain the battery unit.

Abstract: Monopolar electrosurgery devices adapted for resecting tonsil and adenoid tissue. The devices minimize thermal injury by employing a plasma generated by pulsed electrical signals to precisely and effectively cut or coagulate the tissues. Suction may also be applied to the tissues to enhance the cutting, coagulation, and tissue manipulation functions. The devices include an interchangeable tip that may be switched for another tip, depending on which tip may be more suitable for tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy.

Abstract: An instrumentation for performing an endoluminal or transluminal anastomosis, comprises an anastomotic ring device including a proximal ring (5) having two guide wire seats (22) adapted to slidably receive two guide wires (1, 2) and a distal ring (6) having two guide wire seats (25) adapted to slidably receive the two guide wires (1, 2), the proximal ring 5 and the distal ring 6 being snap-connectable to each other, a surgical probe (7) comprising an elongate insertion shaft (30) and a probe head (32) adapted to be endoluminally advanced to a proximal tissue portion (3), the insertion shaft (30) defining guide wire canals (8, 9) extending into two guide wire exit openings (31) defined in the probe head (32) and adapted to deliver the distal ends (1?, 2?) of said guide wires (1, 2) to said proximal tissue portion (3).

Abstract: A medical device includes a sheath extending from a proximal end to a distal end and having a lumen extending therethrough and an end-effector disposed at the distal end of the sheath including a first resection loop configured to resect tissue and a secondary tool including one of a second resection loop and a tissue-vaporizing structure mounted distally to the first resection loop.

Abstract: The present invention provides devices and methods for preventing or significantly reducing the risk of thrombus formation. More specifically, the devices and methods of the present invention provide energy to blood flowing within a chamber or vessel to prevent or reduce blood stasis and thereby prevent or significantly reduce the risk of thrombus formation. The present invention is ideally suited for prevention or reduction of risk of blood clot formation in the atria in patients with atrial fibrillation, in blood vessels of patients at risk of clot formation, in areas adjacent to, or on, artificial heart valves or other artificial cardiovascular devices, and the like.

Abstract: Cardiac ablation systems include vacuum-stabilized, irrigated ablation devices that have ablating elements capable of providing regions of relatively low pressure to maintain the ablating element in a stable position relative to the tissue, or minimize relative movement of the ablating element relative to the tissue. The ablation elements have integrated structures for vacuum-stabilization. The devices also include one or more electrodes for both orienting the ablating element as well as for diagnostic purposes.

Abstract: A sphincterotome including a cutting wire may be configured such that, when activated, the cutting wire assumes a desired cutting position at or near the “12 o'clock” position or any other desired angular configuration. A sphincterotome may have controlled bending characteristics. A distally located micromachined hypotube may, in some instances, provide desired bending characteristics to a sphincterotome.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for, and a method of, accurate positioning of endoscopic instruments. Accurate positioning of the instruments is accomplished through the inclusion of a steering ability within the device. After the endoscopic instrument is properly positioned, the present invention may use rapid exchange technology, soft locks, and mechanical locks to maintain the position of the endoscopic instrument. Rapid exchange technology is used to minimize displacement forces present on the guidewire or catheters. Soft locks and mechanical locks resist movements caused by displacement forces.

Abstract: A sphincterotome includes a plurality of tines that are longitudinally disposed at a distal end of the sphincterotome. One of the tines is configured as a cutting wire of the sphincterotome and is electrically coupled to an electrical source. The other tines are configured as stabilizing wires to stabilize the cutting wire in a cutting position. In addition, the other tines are electrically insulated from the cutting wire and the electrical source. The plurality of tines are movable between an expanded and a non-expanded configuration. Electrocautery is performed when the tines are in the expanded configuration.

Abstract: A vein harvesting medical device designed and constructed to harvest a vein in a less invasive surgical procedure. The vein harvesting device includes a handle assembly, a shaft assembly, and an end effector operated by the control features in the handle assembly to gather a targeted vein and remove side branches from the targeted vein for harvesting.

Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument for treating tissue includes a housing having a shaft extending therefrom having an axis A-A defined therethrough. The shaft is at least partially flexible and includes first and second jaw members attached at a distal end thereof. Each jaw member includes an electrically conductive tissue contacting surface adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the electrically conductive tissue contacting surfaces are capable of conducting electrosurgical energy through tissue held therebetween. A drive assembly is disposed in the housing and has a first actuator operably coupled to a drive rod for reciprocation thereof to move the jaw members from a first position in spaced relation to one another to a second position closer to one another for engaging tissue. A second actuator is disposed on the housing and is actuatable to articulate the shaft.

Abstract: A sphincterotome is disclosed including an elongate shaft having a lumen extending through at least a portion of the elongate shaft. The lumen includes a proximal segment and a distal segment. A cutting element extends within the lumen through the proximal segment of the lumen and extends exterior of the elongate shaft along the distal segment of the lumen. A stiffening member is positioned within the distal segment of the lumen.

Abstract: An endoscopic electrosurgical instrument is presented for encapsulating and resecting biologic tissue, such as a polyp, from an anatomical structure, such as a lumen. The instrument includes an encapsulation assembly which includes a snare coupled to an electrically non-conductive, shrinkable pouch in a drawstring-like configuration. The encapsulation assembly may be folded within the elongated cylindrical housing of the endoscopic instrument, positioned within the patient at the surgical site, and deployed for use. Once positioned over the polyp, the snare is tightened around the peduncle thereof, and the pouch is activated, thereby shrinking and encapsulating the polyp. The polyp may then be resected using conventional or electrosurgical techniques. The disclosed instrument may include surgical tools and/or electrosurgical electrodes for performing surgical procedures. The disclosed system may reduce the occurrence of undesirable arcing and may aid retrieval of resected tissue.

Abstract: A medical sphincterotome and a method of its use are described. The sphincterotome has structural elements that are capable of directing a wire guide through a selected body passageway. One structural element includes a distal port and deflection member that can deflect the wire guide into the desired passageway. Another structural element includes an offset nose-shaped end that can bend towards a passageway desired to be blocked. The wire guide is prevented from entering the blocked passageway, thereby enabling the wire guide to cannulate the desired passageway. The sphincterotome also includes a cutting wire to access a patient's sphincter and perform various other medical procedures.

Abstract: A surgical instrument, such as an endoscopic or laparoscopic instrument. The surgical instrument may comprise an end effector comprising at least one sensor. The surgical instrument may also comprise an electrically conductive shaft having a distal end connected to the end effector wherein the sensor is electrically insulated from the shaft. The surgical instrument may also comprise a handle connected to a proximate end of the shaft. The handle may comprise a control unit electrically coupled to the shaft such that the shaft radiates signals as an antenna from the control unit to the sensor and receives radiated signals from the sensor. Other components electrically coupled to the shaft may also radiate the signals.

Abstract: An electrical conductor, such as a wire or catheter, which is coated circumferentially with a ferromagnetic material in a selected region, is fed from a high frequency alternating current source. The ferromagnetic material has a quick response in heating and cooling to 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: A medical device and methods for making and using the same. An example medical device includes a tubular member, a shaft disposed within the tubular member, and an end effector coupled to the shaft. A first handle and a second handle may be coupled to the shaft. A tubular sheath extension may be disposed between the first handle and the second handle.

Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to a medical device. The medical device may include a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end. A positioning mechanism may be disposed adjacent the distal end of the shaft. The positioning mechanism may include an outer member and an inner member coupled to an end-effector. The outer member may be pivotably attached to the distal end of the shaft and the inner member may be pivotably attached to the outer member.

Abstract: A tissue-separating catheter assembly comprises a rotatable shaft, having a distal shaft portion, and a tissue separator device extending along the shaft. The tissue separator device has a distal separator part at the distal shaft portion movable between a retracted state, towards the distal shaft portion, and an outwardly extending, operational state, away from the distal shaft portion. A pivot joint may be used to pivotally connect the distal separator end to the distal shaft portion. The distal shaft portion may comprise a distally-facing transition surface at a proximal end of the distal shaft portion. First and second energizable tissue separator elements may be used at the transition surface and the tip of the device, respectively.

Abstract: A RF ablation device includes a probe assembly that has an elongate cannula having a lumen disposed interiorly of an external wall of the cannula. The elongate cannula includes a plurality of slots formed within the external wall that provide access to the lumen. The probe assembly includes an electrode member that is slidably disposed within the elongate cannula, the electrode member including a plurality of tines configured for passage through the plurality of slots. The slots are disposed in a staggered arrangement or pattern about the external wall of the cannula. The staggered arrangement of slots may be used in a monopolar or bipolar arrangement of the electrodes on the cannula. A bipolar arrangement of electrodes using the staggered configuration produces larger ablation areas in a shorter period of time as compared to prior designs.

Abstract: A surgical instrument, such as an endoscopic or laparoscopic instrument. The surgical instrument may comprise an end effector comprising at least one sensor. The surgical instrument may also comprise an electrically conductive shaft having a distal end connected to the end effector wherein the sensor is electrically insulated from the shaft. The surgical instrument may also comprise a handle connected to a proximate end of the shaft. The handle may comprise a control unit electrically coupled to the shaft such that the shaft radiates signals as an antenna from the control unit to the sensor and receives radiated signals from the sensor. Other components electrically coupled to the shaft may also radiate the signals.

Abstract: An electrical conductor, such as a wire or catheter, which is coated circumferentially with a ferromagnetic material in a selected region, is fed from a high frequency alternating current source. The ferromagnetic material has a quick response in heating and cooling to 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 apparatus and methods for excising tissue are described therein. In certain variations, a method of excising a target tissue mass from a subject, may include advancing an elongate instrument having an opening at its distal end into a subject. A cutting element, e.g., a snare or loop, may be advanced from the distal end of the elongate instrument, wherein the cutting element may be configured to cut tissue. The cutting element may be positioned near the target tissue mass. The cutting element may be actuated, e.g., expanded or deployed, and may perform energy based or mechanical cutting of a section of tissue encapsulating the target tissue mass. The cut section of tissue and the target tissue mass encapsulated therein may be removed from the subject.

Abstract: A high-frequency treatment tool comprising: a flexible sheath to be inserted into a treatment tool insertion channel of an endoscope; a treatment tool body provided inside the flexible sheath and comprising: a flexible cord; and a high-frequency knife to which a high-frequency current is applied, formed to the front end of the flexible cord; and a hard cylinder having an electrical insulating property, inserted and fixed inside the flexible sheath, wherein the high-frequency knife comprises blade portions radially provided in its axial direction, each of the blade portions including an engaging part, and wherein, when the high-frequency knife is made to stick out from the hard cylinder, engaging parts of the blade portions abut against a rear end portion of the hard cylinder so that: the high-frequency knife is engaged with the hard cylinder; and communicating channels that communicate an inside and an outside of the flexible sheath are formed between the blade portions adjacent to each other.

Abstract: A surgical instrument can comprise an end effector including a plurality of jaws which can be configured to compress tissue therebetween. The end effector can further comprise one or more electrodes which can be configured to direct a flow of electrical current through the tissue in order to heat the tissue and denature collagen and/or other proteins within the tissue. As the tissue cools, the collagen and/or other proteins can renature and thereby seal the tissue. In certain embodiments, the end effector of the surgical instrument can further comprise movable portions which can apply a tension force to the tissue surrounding the tissue being sealed. In various circumstances, the tension force can reduce the over-denaturation, shrinkage, and/or other damage to the surrounding tissue caused by heat flowing from the end effector during the sealing process.

Abstract: A device and system for removing tissue such as polyps is provided and includes a tubular member having proximal and distal ends, a snare portion operably extending from within the distal end of the tubular member and including first and second electrodes configured to treat tissue therebetween, the snare portion further including a cutting member for severing the treated tissue. The tissue removal device may further include a handle portion operatively extending from within the proximal end of the tubular member. The handle portion may be configured for operable engagement by a user and the cutting member may extend between distal ends of the first and second electrodes.

Abstract: The invention provides a non-invasive system and method for treatment of the heart. In a first aspect, a method for treatment of an anatomical site related to arrhythmogenesis of a heart of a patient comprises creating a target shape encompassing the anatomical site, directing particle beam radiation or x-ray radiation from outside the patient toward the target shape wherein one or more doses of radiation ablates the target shape and disregarding at least one orientation of cardiac motion while creating the target shape or directing the particle beam or both.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing an electrosurgical tool includes the initial step of coupling a proximal end of a substantially malleable elongate tube-like shaft to a distal end of a housing. A tub-like dielectric sheath is disposed on the tube-like shaft. The method also includes the steps of coupling a tube-like electrode having a first thermal conductivity K1 coaxially through the tube-like dielectric sheath and coupling a proximal end of the tube-like electrode to a source of suction to provide fluid communication between the tube-like electrode and the source of suction. The method also includes the steps of electrically connecting the tube-like electrode to a source of energy and coupling a thermally conductive member to the tube-like shaft. The thermally conductive member has a second thermal conductivity K2 that is less than K1 and is configured to impede the propagation of thermal energy proximally.

Abstract: An atrial ablation catheter and methods for its use. The endocardial catheter includes an electrode array particularly adapted to locate and ablate foci of arrhythmia which are required for sustained atrial fibrillation is provided. The array is easily deployed and retracted from the catheter, and presents a distally oriented electrode array that can be pressed against the wall of the atrium.

Abstract: The high-frequency treatment instrument is a high-frequency treatment instrument for performing a high-frequency treatment on a pathological lesion portion (subject tissue) not shown and includes a sheath (elongated extension member), a treatment electrode which is rotatably disposed at a distal end of the sheath and which extends in a direction substantially parallel to a diameter direction of the rotation, an operating wire (axial member) for allowing the treatment electrode to rotate around the distal end of the sheath, and an operating portion to which proximal ends of the sheath and the operating wire are connected. According to a high-frequency treatment instrument, by enabling a treatment on a subject tissue without using a curving operation of an endoscope it is possible to facilitate a procedure.

Abstract: A multifilar flexible rotary shaft includes a plurality of individual filaments which are not wound around each other or around a central core, a loose ensemble of filaments. The input ends of each filament are coupled to each other and the output ends of each filament are coupled to each other. A loose ensemble of N filaments can transmit N times the torque of a single filament, and will have N times the torsional stiffness of a single filament, while retaining the minimum radius of operation of a single filament. Since a loose ensemble of filaments does not have any appreciable contact forces among the filaments (because they are not forcibly twisted together), there is no appreciable internal friction or hysteresis. The filaments should be no more than loosely twisted together, if at all. Several practical applications of the invention are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for, and a method of, accurate positioning of endoscopic instruments. Accurate positioning of the instruments is accomplished through the inclusion of a steering ability within the device. After the endoscopic instrument is properly positioned, the present invention may use rapid exchange technology, soft locks, and mechanical locks to maintain the position of the endoscopic instrument. Rapid exchange technology is used to minimize displacement forces present on the guidewire or catheters. Soft locks and mechanical locks resist movements caused by displacement forces.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an apparatus, a system, and a method of electrosurgery to maximize the manipulability of instrumentation inserted at a single access point.