Abstract: A suction assisted ablation device having a support surface, suction elements disposed adjacent the support surface, at least one electrode and at least one suction conduit is provided. The device may further include fluid openings, which allow fluid to irrigate target tissue and aid in ablation. A method for ablating tissue using suction is also provided.

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: Electrosurgical apparatus and methods for ablating, coagulating, shrinking, stiffening, or other treatment of a target tissue of a patient. An apparatus of the invention includes an electrosurgical probe, and an introducer needle adapted for passing the distal end of the probe therethrough, wherein the probe includes an uninsulated shaft which makes electrical contact with the introducer needle when the shaft is engaged within a lumen of the introducer needle. The apparatus further includes an active electrode and a return electrode, wherein the return electrode comprises the shaft in combination with the introducer needle. In one embodiment, the active electrode includes an expandable electrode head.

Abstract: An electrosurgical probe is provided to vaporize, cut, coagulate or remove tissue from a body structure. A method of surgically treating a mammal includes providing a surgical instrument including a length of shaft and an active electrode having a curved current density edge with at least one convex surface; and ablating a tissue surface with said surgical instrument.

Abstract: A laparoscopic bipolar electrosurgical instrument for sealing tissue includes a handle having an elongated tube affixed thereto. The tube includes first and second jaw members having electrically conductive sealing surfaces attached to a distal end thereof which are movable from a first position for approximating tissue to a second position for grasping tissue therebetween. The handle includes a fixed handle and a handle which is movable relative to the fixed handle to effect movement of the jaw members from the first position to the second position for grasping tissue. The jaw members connect to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the opposable sealing surfaces are capable of conducting electrosurgical energy through tissue held therebetween. A stop is included for maintaining a minimum separation distance between opposing sealing surfaces. A ratchet is also included to maintain a closure force in the range of about 7 kg/cm2 to about 13 kg/cm2 between opposing sealing surfaces.

Abstract: An electrosurgical device has an electrode and a heat pipe to conduct heat from the electrodes where substantially all heat conducted from the electrode through the heat pipe is dissipated along the length of the heat pipe. The heat pipe can have a thermal time constant less than 60 seconds and preferably less than 30 seconds.

Abstract: An bipolar electrosurgical tool (10) for cauterizing or ablating tissue. The tool has a nose cone (12) which serves as a handle. A conductive shaft (14) extends from the nose cone. A tip assembly (18) with an active electrode (20) is mounted to the shaft. A circuit board (78) is mounted in the nose cone. Conductive traces that forming contact pads (96, 102) are formed on the circuit board. A web (108) formed from a single piece of elastomeric material is seated over the opening in which the printed circuit board is mounted to seal the opening shut. Integrally formed with the web are buttons (116, 118) that are in registration over the contact pads. The buttons can be depressed downwardly towards the contact pads. When a button is so depressed, a conductive landing pad (120) integral with the button closes the connection between the traces that form the contact pad. Thus, the tool of this invention is provided with switches. The circuit board also has two conductive traces (92, 104a) that run in parallel.

Abstract: Devices and methods for creating a series of percutaneous myocardial revascularization (PMR) channels in the heart. One method includes forming a pattern of channels in the myocardium leading from healthy tissue to hibernating tissue. Suitable channel patterns include lines and arrays. One method includes anchoring a radiopaque marker to a position in the ventricle wall, then using fluoroscopy repeatedly to guide positioning of a cutting tip in the formation of multiple channels. Another method uses radiopaque material injected into each channel formed, as a marker. Yet another method utilizes an anchorable, rotatable cutting probe for channel formation about an anchor member, where the cutting probe can vary in radial distance from the anchor. Still another method utilizes a multiple wire radio frequency burning probe, for formation of multiple channels simultaneously. Still another method utilizes liquid nitrogen to cause localized tissue death.

Abstract: An electro-surgical device for performing tissue resection and cauterization includes an elongated body, a pair of arms extending from a distal end of the elongated body, and an electrode in communication with the pair of arms. The elongated body is adapted to be coupled to a source of energy at a proximal end. The electrode has a first region coated with an insulative coating and a second region for focusing energy emission. The coating can be a diamond-like carbon coating or other coating exhibiting resistance to cracking at high temperatures and high voltages. The coating can be deposited on a base section of a loop electrode while the end sections remain free of the coating. Alternatively, the coating can be unevenly deposited on the electrode. In other embodiments, the electrode can comprise a rollerball and the insulative coating can be deposited on selected or random portions of the rollerball.

Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument is provided for the treatment of tissue in the presence of an electrically-conductive fluid medium. The instrument comprises an instrument shaft (10), and a tissue treatment electrode (12) at the distal end of the shaft for electrosurgically excising tissue pieces at an operation site. The tissue treatment electrode (12) is cyclically movable relative to the distal end of the shaft (10). Threshold control means are provided for controlling the power threshold for vaporization of the electrically-conductive fluid medium at the tissue treatment electrode (12).

Abstract: A vein stripper, includes a probe, and a coagulation and cutting instrument, which has an electrode assembly and a first end face formed with an opening for passage of the probe. The electrode assembly has at least two electrodes arranged in neighboring disposition in a peripheral zone of the coagulation and cutting instrument in an area of the opening.

Abstract: A device for ablating tissue is provided. The device comprises a conductive element with a channel for irrigating fluid formed therein, which is in contact with a non-conductive microporous interface. All or a portion of the interface may be removable. When the interface is removed, a portion of the conductive element is exposed for use in ablating tissue. Methods of using the device and of removing the interface are also provided.

Abstract: A muscular tissue revascularizing apparatus. First electrodes generate a heat effect into the muscular tissue. Second electrodes generate pulsed spark discharge shockwaves into the muscular tissue.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a bipolar electrosurgical end effector for use in medical instruments. A bipolar end effector according to the present invention includes a tissue slot and electrodes arranged on either side of the tissue slot. The opposing electrodes are electrically connected such that tissue passing through the slot is electrically treated with electrosurgical current passing laterally through the tissue. An end effector according to the present invention further includes a tissue separator arranged at the end of the slot to divide tissue as it is passed through the slot and after it is treated.

Abstract: A surgical system includes an endoscope, a pair of end effectors provided on the outside of the distal end of a endoscope (“on-scope”), in which one end effector is rotatable or otherwise movable relative to the second end effector and in which such movement is effected via controls elements which do not extend through a lumen of the endoscope, and another instrument extending through the lumen of the endoscope (“through-scope”), and which preferably also has a pair of end effectors. The on-scope device may be clamping jaws, needle passers, clip appliers, cautery devices, staplers, and releasable hemoclips, among other end devices. The through-scope end effectors may be graspers and clip appliers, among other end effectors.

Abstract: An electro-mechanical surgical device, system and/or method may include a housing, at least two opposing jaw, and at least one electrical contact associated with at least one of the jaws. The electrical contact may include at least one of a bipolar electrical contact and an ultrasonic electrical contact. The electrical contact may be a row of electrodes located on one or all of the jaws. A sensor may also be associated with any tissue located between the jaws to sense and report the temperature of that tissue. A piercable ampulla containing fluid may also be placed on at least one of the jaws so that the fluid is releasable when the jaws are in closed position and the electrode(s) pass through the tissue into the piercable ampulla.

Abstract: An hf resectoscope implement for cutting body tissue in a body cavity filled with an electrically conducting fluid and comprising a loop support and a loop-shaped cutting electrode mounted distally on the support. A plane of the cutting electrode slants relative to a longitudinal axis of the loop support. The implement also includes a neutral electrode mounted on the support. An insulator is mounted at the loop support between the electrodes such that any straight geometric line between the electrodes passes through the insulator. The neutral electrode and the insulator are configured to not significantly hamper the view available via optics fitted in the resectoscope stem tube.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a bipolar electrosurgical instrument suitable for use in mesentery tissue and other suitable tissue structures, including vessels. A bipolar electrosurgical instrument according to the present invention includes an end effector which includes a tissue slot and electrodes arranged on either side of the tissue slot. The opposing electrodes are electrically connected such that tissue passing through the slot is electrically treated with electrosurgical current passing laterally through the tissue. An end effector according to the present invention further includes a tissue separator arranged at the end of the slot to divide tissue as it is passed through the slot and after it is treated.

Abstract: A bipolar endoscopic instrument including a tubular stem having a distal end and a proximal end. The stem distal end supports two jaws that are pivotable relative to one another. The proximal end of the tubular stem has a bipolar hf plug inserted therein at an acute angle to a push/pull wire. The plug applies a bipolar output of a high-frequency (hf) voltage source into the inside of the instrument. The inserted end of the hf plug is shaped such that the plug contacts are axially insulated from each other and each plug contact touches an electrically conducting contact element inside the instrument which, in turn, is connected in electrically conducting manner to one of the two jaws. A unit is present inside the instrument and includes the two contact elements and an insulator electrically separating the contact elements. The hf plug engages the insulator while a particular plug contact touches a particular contact element.

Abstract: Bipolar electrosurgical scissors are disclosed having a pair of blades joined for relative movement in a scissor-like action between open and closed positions. The blades comprise a tissue contacting surface and first and second spaced apart electrodes extending along the surface. Current flow between the first and second electrodes of each blade and between each blade to promote hemostasis in tissue contacting the surface.

Abstract: Bipolar Symmetrical Rotational Electrode characterized by two separated wires which cut and coagulate in bipolar electrosurgical mode to take a biopsy.

Abstract: An electrosurgical probe is provided to vaporize, cut, coagulate or remove tissue from a body structure. A method of surgically treating a mammal includes providing a surgical instrument including a length of shaft and an active electrode having a curved current density edge with at least one convex surface; and ablating a tissue surface with said surgical instrument.

Abstract: A endoscopic bipolar forceps for clamping and sealing tissue includes first and second jaw members pivotally attached in opposing relation relative to one another which are movable from a first open position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second clamping position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. A drive rod assembly connects each of the jaw members to a source of electrical energy such that the jaw members are capable of conducting bipolar energy through the tissue held therebetween. A handle attached to the drive rod assembly imparts movement of the first and second jaw members from the first and second positions. At least one stop member is attached to the jaw members for controlling the distance between the jaw members. The forceps may also include a yoke member for insulating the jaw members from one another to prevent short circuiting of the forceps.

Abstract: A bipolar electrosurgical instrument useful in harvesting blood vessels such as veins and arteries. The instrument has a pair of jaws and a central cutting element displaceable distally and proximally to dissect tissue contained between the jaws. The central cutting element has an electrode surface.

Abstract: The present invention provides a series of devices for performing surgical procedures utilizing electrodes for performing electrocautery on a tissue of the body of a patient. The invention includes, in one aspect, a series of devices comprising surgical instruments providing at least one electrode for performing electrocautery, and, in another aspect, provides a method for cutting and cauterizing tissue with a surgical instrument. In yet another aspect, the invention involves a method for detecting the location of a bleeding vessel in a liquid-filled, visually monitored surgical field of a patient and for electrocauterizing the vessel to stop the bleeding before visualization of the surgical field is compromised. Preferred surgical instruments according to the invention also include operable components for forming a liquid cutting jet for cutting or ablating tissue of a patient and/or for providing a rotating, tissue contacting component for cutting, grinding, ablating, etc.

Abstract: A laparoscopic bipolar electrosurgical instrument can apply a large closure force between its jaws without damaging the small yoke assembly.

Abstract: An electrosurgical device for use in surgical procedures is disclosed. The electrosurgical device comprises a main body having a proximal end and a distal end. A heat delivery modality is situated and arranged at the distal end of the main body. A sensor arrangement is also situated and arranged at the distal end of the main body. The heat delivery modality provides thermal energy to a tissue being treated while the sensor arrangement is configured to engage and detect a change in dimension of the tissue being treated. Accordingly, the electrosurgical device of the present disclosure allows a surgeon to precisely achieve the desired amount of dimensional change of the tissue being treated.

Abstract: An improved wireless electrosurgery instrument comprising at least one surface electrical contact for contactably coupling the wireless instrument to a remote power source through a coupling mechanism, wherein the coupling mechanism comprises an insulated electrical conductor running through a surgeon's glove and/or a surgeon's gown.

Abstract: A bipolar medical instrument comprises a tubular shaft and two jaw parts. The jaw parts are arranged movably, one relative to the other, at the distal end of the tubular shaft and coupled one with the other via a joint. Each of the jaw parts forms a work electrode of different polarity. Each jaw part has associated to it a separate current line, one of such current lines being constituted by an axially movable force transmission element that is arranged in the tubular shaft and that is frictionally coupled to at least one of the jaw parts. At least one of the jaw parts comprises, at least in the region of the joint, a single-piece main body made from an electrically insulating material on which an electrically conductive jaw part insert is fastened, which forms a respective work electrode and which is connected, in an electrically conductive fashion, to the respective associated current line.

Abstract: Endoscopic bipolar scissor blades are formed in a laminate assembly of an electrically conductive electrode, an electrically insulating material, and a metal shearing surface which is electrically insulated and physically spaced from the electrode by the insulating material which is disposed therebetween. In one embodiment, the electrode is a metal blade, while the insulating material is a ceramic which is fixed to the metal blade, and the metal shearing surface which also provides the cutting edge is of a metal material which is fixed to the ceramic. In a second embodiment, the insulating material is a molded ceramic blade, with the electrode and the metal shearing surface layer metalized or otherwise fixed to the ceramic blade. In a third embodiment, the electrode is metalized on a thin layer insulating material which is fixed onto a metallic blade. In a fourth embodiment, metallic shearing and electrode layers are laminated to opposite sides of a fiberglass material.

Abstract: An integrated catheter assembly for enabling diverse endoscopic in situ therapies. The assembly includes a catheter with an irrigation fluid lumen, a distal electrode tip portion that acts as a hemostat, and a cutting wire for making incisions in or ablating tissue. A cutting wire hub provides a sealing entrance for a cutting wire. An operator enables the physician to displace the cutting wire between extended and retracted positions. The cutting wire and electrode are electrically isolated. In addition, the catheter assembly may include a planar tip which, when extended outside the distal end of the assembly, assumes a substantially flat unbiased configuration for use. The apparatus of the present invention allows the physician to make incisions in or ablate tissue using electrosurgery, irrigate tissue, and cauterize or coagulate tissue without having to remove the apparatus from the working channel of the endoscope.

Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for selectively applying electrical energy to a target location within the head and neck of a patient's body, particularly including tissue in the ear, nose and throat. The present invention includes a channeling technique in which small holes or channels are formed within tissue structures in the mouth, such as the tonsils, tongue, palate and uvula, and thermal energy is applied to the tissue surface immediately surrounding these holes or channels to cause thermal damage to the tissue surface, thereby stiffening the surrounding tissue structure. Applicant has discovered that such stiffening of certain tissue structures in the mouth and throat helps to prevent the tissue structure from obstructing the patient's upper airway during sleep.

Abstract: A bipolar electrosurgical instrument that is configured for use in MIS and other electrosurgical procedures. The instrument is constructed with a rigid end as a bipolar electrode comprising spaced rounded electrodes. The electrode preferably comprises spaced hemispherically-shaped electrically conductive members projecting from the end of the housing. When energized, a bipolar discharge is generated between the bare ends of the electrode.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for ablating, severing, cutting, shrinking, coagulating, or otherwise modifying a target tissue to be treated. In a method for treating a target tissue, an active electrode of an electrosurgical probe is positioned in at least close proximity to the target tissue in the presence of an electrically conductive fluid. A high frequency voltage is then applied between the active electrode and a return electrode, wherein, the high frequency voltage is sufficient to volumetrically remove (ablate), sever, or modify at least a portion of the target tissue. The probe comprises a multi-lumen shaft having a plurality of internal lumens, and a return electrode coil oriented substantially parallel to the shaft distal end. The active electrode may be in the form of a metal disc, a hook, or an active electrode coil. In the latter embodiment, the active electrode coil is typically arranged substantially orthogonal to the return electrode coil.

Abstract: A surgical instrument useful in harvesting blood vessels such as veins and arteries. The instrument has a pair of jaws and a central cutting element displaceable distally and proximally to dissect tissue contained between the jaws.

Abstract: An electrosurgical system comprises a radio frequency generator (1), an electrosurgical instrument (E1), and a fluid enclosure (42). The generator (1) has a radio frequency output for delivery of power to the electrosurgical instrument (E1) when immersed in an electrically-conductive fluid. The electrosurgical instrument (E1) has an electrode assembly (32) at the distal end thereof, the electrode assembly comprising a tissue treatment electrode (34), and a return electrode (38) axially spaced therefrom in such a manner as to define, in use, a conductive fluid path that completes an electrical circuit between the tissue treatment electrode and the return electrode. The fluid enclosure (42) is adapted to surround an operation site on the skin of a patient or an incision leading to a cavity surgically created within the patient's body.

Abstract: The present invention provides systems, apparatus, and methods for dissecting, resecting, severing, cutting, contracting, coagulating, or otherwise modifying a tissue or organ of a patient. An apparatus of the invention includes an electrosurgical probe configurable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the probe including an active electrode terminal, a fixed return electrode disposed proximal to the active electrode terminal, and a movable return electrode configured to move linearly with respect to the active electrode terminal between the open configuration and the closed configuration. A method of the present invention comprises clamping a blood vessel between the active electrode terminal and the movable return electrode, coagulating the clamped blood vessel by application of a first high frequency voltage, and severing the coagulated blood vessel by application of a second high frequency voltage.

Abstract: An electrode for use in an electrosurgical aural procedure known as a myringotomy for removing tissue of the tympanic membrane. In a preferred embodiment, the electrode is characterized by a bare active end portion having an outside diameter of 2 mm. In one embodiment, the bare end has a sharp circular edge; In another embodiment, the bare end has a tapered cone shape. When the electrode end is placed against the tympanic membrane and the electrosurgical apparatus activated, a 2 mm hole is punched in the tympanic membrane which allows any middle ear fluid to drain.

Abstract: A method for decreasing responsiveness or decreasing resistance to airflow of airways involves the transfer of energy to or from the airway walls to prevent or reduce airway constriction and other symptoms of lung diseases. The treatment reduces the ability of the airways to contract during an acute narrowing of the airways, reduces mucus plugging of the airways, and/or increases the airway diameter. The method provides a longer duration and/or more effective treatment for lung diseases than currently used drug treatments, and obviate patient compliance issues.

Abstract: A bipolar electrosurgical instrument that is configured for use in MIS and other electrosurgical procedures. The instrument is constructed with a rigid end as a bipolar electrode comprising spaced rounded electrodes. The electrode preferably comprises spaced hemispherically-shaped electrically conductive members projecting from the end of the housing. When energized, a bipolar discharge is generated between the bare ends of the electrode.

Abstract: A pivoting device the two electrically conductive arms (12, 14) of which are connected pivotably by a screwed joint (16) having a screw (46) and a nut (74). Surfaces (26, 28) of the arms (12, 14) which rest against one another, and also the pivoting device (16), are electrically insulated. The nut (74) has, at least in part, a noncircular, preferably elliptical, smooth circumferential surface (80). Holes (36, 38) in the two arms (12, 14) for accommodating the screwed joint (16) are designed in such a way that, in the assembled state, the screw (46) and the nut (74) are arranged in a recessed manner in the holes (36, 38). Electrically insulating material is provided at least in the region of the surface of the screw (46) and the nut (74) and/or the inner walls of both holes (36, 38) in the scissor arms (12, 14).

Abstract: An electrosurgery system has an electrosurgical generator operable to generate electrosurgical power at a frequency in the UHF band (typically 2.45 GHz), a feed structure, and an electrode assembly for delivering the electrosurgical power to tissue to be cut. The electrode assembly has an elongate active electrode which, at the operating frequency, is &lgr;/8 in length (&lgr; being the wavelength in air) and has an active surface area of less than 30 square millimeters. A return electrode set back proximally from the active electrode is arranged so as to be capacitively coupled to tissue adjacent the active electrode and is isolated from the feed structure in respect of unbalanced currents. Tissue cutting occurs due to thermal dissipation of UHF power in the tissue substantially without arcing, resulting from the lossy dielectric behavior of the tissue.

Abstract: The method, device and system for electrical sealing of a puncture opening in a blood vessel wall. In a first embodiment, a vascular sealing probe has two bipolar electrodes formed thereon, is insertable to a position whereat the bipolar tip is adjacent the blood vessel puncture site to effect electrocauterization or electrocoagulation of the puncture site. In a second embodiment the bipolar vascular sealing probe has a first electrode formed thereon and an electrode-guide wire has the second bipolar electrode formed thereon. The electrode-guide wire is passable through a lumen formed in the probe such that the second electrode on the electrode-guide wire is positioned close enough to the first electrode positioned on the probe to permit electrical current to pass therebetween.

Abstract: A large area thermal ablation apparatus for use with an endoscope includes a housing and at least one electrode. The housing is removably attachable to a distal terminating end of the endoscope. The housing includes an outer surface and a cross-sectional area that is at least as large as a cross-sectional area of the distal terminating end of the endoscope. The electrode is supported by the outer surface of the housing. The electrode is capable of delivering energy to a tissue region inside a body to ablate the tissue region.

Abstract: An electrode for use in an electrosurgical aural procedure known as a myringotomy for removing tissue of the tympanic membrane. In a preferred embodiment, the electrode is characterized by a bare active end portion that is hollow and has an outside diameter of 2-3 mm. In a unipolar embodiment, the bare end has a sharp circular edge; in a bipolar embodiment, the bare end is split into two semi-circular sharp edges that may be axially offset from one another. When the electrode end is placed against the tympanic membrane and the electrosurgical apparatus activated, a 2-3 mm hole is punched in the tympanic membrane which allows any middle ear fluid to drain.

Abstract: Bipolar electrosurgical scissors are disclosed having a pair of blades joined for relative movement in a scissor-like action between open and closed positions. The blades comprise a tissue contacting surface and first and second spaced apart electrodes extending along the surface. Current flow between the first and second electrodes of each blade and between each blade to promote hemostasis in tissue contacting the surface.

Abstract: An arthroscopic probe with a distally orientated concave curve which constrains tissue is disclosed. It is particularly adapted to cutting ligaments and tendons. Also disclosed is a thermal energy delivery apparatus that includes (a) a probe with a distal end and a proximal end, (b) a first electrode positioned at the distal end of the probe and (c) a cabling coupled to the proximal end of the probe.

Abstract: The present invention provides systems, apparatus and methods for selectively applying electrical energy to cut or incise structures in a patient's body. The electrosurgical systems and methods are particularly useful for removing tissue or ligaments from a patient's joint, such as the patellar ligament in the knee, in dermatological procedures, i.e., surface treatment of the patient's outer skin, such as the removal of pigmentations, vascular lesions (e.g., leg veins), scars, tattoos, etc., and in procedures for removing tissue in regions of the head and neck. The method of the present invention comprises positioning an electrosurgical probe adjacent the target tissue so that one or more electrode terminal(s) are brought into at least partial contact or close proximity with the target site in the presence of electrically conductive fluid.

Abstract: A medical instrument for dissecting tissue in the human or animal body has an elongated shaft and, at a distal end of said shaft, two jaw parts that are movable relative to one another and that coact for dissecting tissue, at least one of said jaw parts being configured as an electrode which can be impinged upon by high-frequency current.

Abstract: An arrangement (1) for electrothermally treating the human body or an animal body, in particular for tissue coagulation or electrotomy, includes two electrodes (3, 4) for insertion into the body to be treated. The two electrodes (3, 4) are electrically insulated from each other and are disposed at a distance from each other to produce an electric or electromagnetic field heating the body tissue in the treatment area, and each electrode is connected by a feed line with a power source arranged outside the body. An elongate catheter (2) is provided for joint insertion of the two electrodes (3, 4) into the body, which are staggered in relation to each other in the axial direction of the catheter (2) and connected to the catheter (2) or a component thereof.