Abstract: An ultrasonic clamp coagulator assembly that is configured to permit selective cutting, coagulation and clamping of tissue during surgical procedures. An elongated portion of the instrument can be configured for endoscopic applications and has an outside diameter of less than 6 mm. The construction includes an outer sheath and an ultrasonic waveguide positioned within the outer sheath. The waveguide includes an ultrasonically actuated blade positioned at least partially distal the waveguide. A rigid support is positioned between the outer sheath and the waveguide.

Abstract: An ultrasonic clamp coagulator system that is configured to permit selective cutting, coagulation and clamping of tissue during surgical procedures. An elongated portion of the instrument can be configured for endoscopic applications and has an outside diameter of less than 6 mm. The system includes a one-piece torque wrench that is provided with cantilever arms aligned in an annular fashion about the centerline of the torque wrench. The cantilever arms include teeth in an inward perpendicular fashion in relation to cantilever arms. The clamp coagulator includes an outer tube retainer that includes spline gears projecting in a perpendicular fashion along the outer circumference of retainer. Torque is transmitted through the cantilever arms to the spline gears for attaching a handpiece to the clamp coagulator.

Abstract: An ultrasonic clamp coagulator assembly that is configured to permit selective cutting, coagulation and clamping of tissue during surgical procedures. An elongated portion of the instrument can be configured for endoscopic applications and has an outside diameter of less than 6 mm. The construction includes a waveguide and blade that enable larger wave amplitude and a longer active blade length and still provide sufficient frequency margin or window. The waveguide is provided with a series of gain steps located at the distal portion of the waveguide preferably at the two most distal nodes in relation to the handpiece, or the two most proximal nodes in relation to the blade tip.

Abstract: An ultrasonic clamp coagulator assembly that is configured to permit selective cutting, coagulation and clamping of tissue during surgical procedures. An elongated portion of the instrument can be configured for endoscopic applications and has an outside diameter of less than 6 mm. The construction includes a clamping mechanism, including a clamp arm pivotally mounted at the distal portion of the instrument, which is specifically configured to create a desired level of tissue clamping forces. The clamping mechanism includes a two-piece pad design and pad material that enables the higher tissue clamping forces and a force-limiting mechanism that effectively smoothes out abusive tissue forces.

Abstract: A surgical device including a shaft defining an axis and having a distal end and a proximal end, a first elongated electrode pivotally connected to the distal end of the shaft and deployable from a first configuration, wherein the first electrode is generally coaxially aligned with the axis, to a second configuration, wherein the first electrode is generally perpendicular relative to the axis, and a second elongated electrode pivotally connected to the distal end of the shaft and deployable from a first configuration, wherein the second electrode is generally coaxially aligned with the axis, to a second configuration, wherein the second electrode is generally perpendicular relative to the axis, wherein the first elongated electrode is adapted to extend radially relative to the second elongated electrode.

Abstract: The present invention provides systems, apparatus and methods for selectively applying electrical energy to body tissue in order to ablate, contract, coagulate, or otherwise modify a target tissue or organ. The closed configuration is adapted for clamping and coagulating a target tissue while the apparatus is operating in the sub-ablation mode, while the open configuration is adapted for ablating the target tissue via molecular dissociation of tissue components. A method of the present invention comprises clamping a target tissue or organ with an electrosurgical probe. A first high frequency voltage is applied between the active electrode and the return electrode to effect coagulation of the clamped tissue. Thereafter, a second high frequency voltage is applied to effect localized molecular dissociation of the coagulated tissue.

Abstract: An internal indifferent electrode device including a flexible shaft, an energy transmission device adapted to be inserted into the body supported on the shaft, and a connector adapted to mate with the power return connector of a power supply apparatus.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for applying a high frequency voltage in the presence of an electrically conductive fluid to create a relatively low-temperature plasma for ablation of tissue adjacent to, or in contact with, the plasma. In one embodiment, an electrosurgical probe or catheter is positioned adjacent the target site so that one or more active electrode(s) are brought into contact with, or close proximity to, a target tissue in the presence of electrically conductive fluid. High frequency voltage is then applied between the active electrode(s) and one or more return electrode(s) to non-thermally generate a plasma adjacent to the active electrode(s), and to volumetrically remove or ablate at least a portion of the target tissue. The high frequency voltage generates electric fields around the active electrode(s) with sufficient energy to ionize the conductive fluid adjacent to the active electrode(s).

Abstract: A tissue penetrating probe includes a distal tissue piercing end; a first electrode; a second electrode; and a dielectric element. A proximal end of the dielectric element is bonded to a distal end of the first electrode and a distal end of the dielectric element is bonded to a proximal end of the second electrode. The dielectric element is formed of a composite material including a fiber braid within a polymeric material.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for creating a virtual electrode to ablate bodily tissue. The apparatus includes an outer tube, a first electrode, an inner tube and a second electrode. The outer tube is fluidly connected to a source of conductive fluid and defines a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end includes an opening for delivering conductive fluid from the outer tube. The first electrode is disposed at the distal end of the outer tube for applying a current to conductive fluid delivered from the outer tube. The inner tube is coaxially received within the outer tube and is connected to a source of conductive fluid. The inner tube defines a proximal end and a distal end, with the distal end forming an opening for delivering conductive fluid from the inner tube. Finally, the second electrode is disposed at the distal end of the inner tube for applying a current to conductive fluid delivered from the inner tube.

Abstract: An electrode assembly for an electrosurgical instrument, comprises a bipolar cutting blade, and fluid supply lines for directing a cooling fluid to the cutting blade, the cutting blade comprising first, second and third electrodes, and electrical insulators spacing apart the electrodes, the fluid supply lines being such that cooling fluid enters the cutting blade via the first electrode, passes through an aperture in the second electrode, and exits the cutting blade via the third electrode.

Abstract: A tubal sterilization device having sesquipolar electrodes includes a hollow catheter defining an interior passageway, the catheter including a first end for insertion transcervically into a patient, and a second end opposite the first end for grasping and manipulation by a physician. The device further includes an electrode tip situated at the first end of the catheter. The electrode tip includes a first portion having a first electrode, the first portion being preferably formed generally conically in shape so that it may be snugly fit into the tubal osteum of the fallopian tube. The electrode tip further includes a second portion having a second electrode which is a coil formed from a wire which is helically wrapped about an insulating spacer or support.

Abstract: An electrosurgical cutting blade (1) comprises a first electrode (2), a second electrode (3), and an electrical insulator (4) separating the first and second electrodes. The first and second electrodes have dissimilar characteristics (cross-sectional area, thermal conductivity etc.) such that the first electrode (2) is encouraged to become an active electrode and the second electrode (3) is encouraged to become a return electrode. The spacing between the first and second electrodes (between 0.25 mm and 3.0 mm) and the peak voltage supplied to the electrodes (2 and 3) are both selected such that arcing does not occur directly between the electrodes, but between the first electrode and the tissue at the target site. The arrangement is such that, in use, a thermal differential of at least 50° C. is established between the first and second electrodes (2 and 3), such that the second electrode is maintained below a temperature of 70° C.

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

Abstract: A method for ablating tissue in or around the heart to create an enhanced lesion is provided. The distal end of a catheter including a needle electrode at its distal end is introduced into the heart. The distal end of the needle electrode is introduced into the tissue. An electrically-conductive fluid is infused through the needle electrode and into the tissue. The tissue is ablated after and/or during introduction of the fluid into the tissue. The fluid conducts ablation energy within the tissue to create a larger lesion than would be created without the introduction of the fluid.

Abstract: A bipolar electrosurgical instrument comprises a handle (5), a body (1) joined to the handle, and a jaw assembly (12) joined to the body and arranged such that manipulation of the handle allows the opposed jaws of the jaw assembly to be opened and closed with respect to one another. A first of said opposed jaws (14) has at least a first coagulating electrode, and the other of said opposed jaws (13) has at least a second coagulating electrode and a cutting electrode (16) separated from the second coagulating electrode by an insulating member (17). The instrument is manipulated at the surgical site such that the jaws of the jaw assembly (12) are open with respect to one another, with the cutting electrode (16) and at least one of the first and second coagulating electrodes contacting tissue at the surgical site.

Abstract: An electrosurgical probe (10) comprises a shaft (13) having an electrode array (58) at its distal end and a connector (19) at its proximal end for coupling the electrode array to a high frequency power supply (28). The shaft includes a return electrode (56) recessed from its distal end and enclosed within an insulating jacket (18). The return electrode defines an inner passage (83) electrically connected to both the return electrode and the electrode array for passage of an electrically conducting liquid (50). By applying high frequency voltage to the electrode array and the return electrode, the electrically conducting liquid generates a current flow path between the return electrode and the electrode array so that target tissue may be cut or ablated. The probe is particularly useful in dry environments, such as the mouth or abdominal cavity, because the electrically conducting liquid provides the necessary return current path between the active and return electrodes.

Abstract: A catheter tip for mapping is provided. The medical probe tip includes a first mapping ring electrode and a second mapping ring electrode that is electrically insulated from the first mapping ring electrode. The second mapping ring electrode is located substantially concentric to the first mapping ring electrode, and is coaxially surrounding the first mapping ring electrode.

Abstract: The present invention provides applicators for performing thermokeratoplasty. One embodiment of such applicators includes two generally tubular electrical conducting elements coaxially disposed relative to one another and separated by an electrically insulating element having a selected thickness. At least a portion of each conducting tube is coated with an electrically insulating and thermally conductive material, e.g., anodized aluminum, so as to electrically insulate the conducting tubes from corneal tissue upon placement of the applicator on a subject's cornea while facilitating extraction of heat from the cornea.

Abstract: Disclosed is a wound closure device and method for using the same. The wound closure device includes a handle, a body portion extending distally from the handle, a stapling mechanism extending distally from the body portion and a mechanism for supplying electrical energy from an RF power supply to a fastener (e.g. staple) which is associated with the stapling mechanism. In a representative embodiment, the stapling mechanism includes an inner rod member disposed within an elongated outer sleeve and slidably movable therein. The rod member has an enlarged tip for deploying the fastener that is supported adjacent to the tip into body tissue. The wound closure device further includes an actuator mechanism associated with the handle and body portion and configured to facilitate relative movement of the inner rod and the outer sleeve so as to deploy the fastener into body tissue. In alternative embodiments, a second pole of the RF power supply is connected to a conductive ring associated with a vascular introducer.

Abstract: An electrosurgical probe comprises a shaft having at least one electrode terminal at its distal end and a connector at its proximal end. The electrode terminal may be spaced from a return electrode such that when the electrode terminal is brought adjacent a tissue structure immersed in an electrically conductive fluid from outside the body, the electrically conductive fluid completes a conduction path between the electrode terminal and the return electrode. By applying high frequency electrical energy to the electrode terminal, target tissue may be cut or ablated while heat dissipation through low impedance paths, such as blood and normal saline, will be minimized. Related methods are disclosed.

Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument that allows precise modulation of active Rf density in an engaged tissue volume. The working end of the instrument has a tissue-contacting surface of a conductive-resistive matrix that is variably resistive depending on its temperature. The matrix comprises a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) polymeric material hat exhibits very large increases in resistivity as any local portion increases beyond a selected temperature. In a method of use, the polymeric PTC material senses the temperature of engaged tissue in a manner akin to pixel-by-pixel sensing and thereby changes its resistance in a corresponding pixel-by-pixel manner. The instrument further carries cooling means to cause accelerated thermal relaxation of the PTC matrix during use to make the engagement surface highly responsive to temperature changes that in turn alter the matrix between being electrically conductive and electrically resistive.

Abstract: The invention relates to a bipolar clamp (10) comprising two scissor members (12, 14), which are joined together mechanically by means of an insulating screw or similar pivot joint (16) about which they can rotate with respect to one another, but are electrically insulated from one another, electrode components (18, 20) at distal ends (22, 24) of the scissor members (12, 14) for grasping tissue and conducting an electrical current through the tissue to cause. coagulation, handle devices (26, 28) at proximal ends (30, 32) of the scissor members (12, 14), current-supply means (34, 40, 42) at the proximal end (32) of one scissor member (14) ratchets (36, 38) between the pivot joint (16) and the proximal ends (32, 34) to lock, the scissor members (12, 14) to one another in a closed position.

Abstract: An ablation probe, comprises a distal substantially tubular electrode, a proximal substantially tubular electrode and a substantially tubular dielectric element. A proximal end of the dielectric element is bonded to a distal end of the proximal electrode and a distal end of the dielectric element is bonded to a proximal end of the distal electrode. The dielectric element is formed of a composite material including a fiber braid within a polymeric material.

Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument which includes opposing end effectors and a handle for effecting movement of the end effectors relative to one another. The instrument includes a housing and a pair of electrodes. Each electode preferably includes an electrically conductive surface (e.g., which can be dimensioned for sealing, clamping and/or cutting) and an insulating substrate which is dimensioned to be engageable with the end effectors such that the electrodes reside in opposing relation relative to one another. The dimensions of the insulating substrate are different from the dimensions of the electrically conductive surface to reduce thermal spread to adjacent tissue structures. The insulating substrate is made from a material having a Comparative Tracking Index of about 300 volts to about 600 volts to reduce the incidence of flashover.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for creating a virtual electrode to ablate bodily tissue. The apparatus includes an outer tube, a first electrode, an inner tube and a second electrode. The outer tube is fluidly connected to a source of conductive fluid and defines a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end includes an opening for delivering conductive fluid from the outer tube. The first electrode is disposed at the distal end of the outer tube for applying a current to conductive fluid delivered from the outer tube. The inner tube is coaxially received within the outer tube and is connected to a source of conductive fluid. The inner tube defines a proximal end and a distal end, with the distal end forming an opening for delivering conductive fluid from the inner tube. Finally, the second electrode is disposed at the distal end of the inner tube for applying a current to conductive fluid delivered from the inner tube.

Abstract: An electrosurgical system includes a generator for generating radio frequency (RF) power, and an electrosurgical instrument including at least three electrodes. The generator comprises an RF output stage having at least a pair of RF output lines, a power supply coupled to the output stage for supplying power to the output stage, and a controller capable of varying the RF power signal supplied to the output lines. The system also includes a selection circuit having at least three output connections each in electrical connection with a respective one of the at least three electrodes. This selection circuit operates to vary the coupling between the RF output stage and the three or more output connections.

Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for treatment of tissue in a body lumen with an electrode deployment device. Embodiments typically include a device with a plurality of electrodes having a pre-selected electrode density arranged on the surface of a support. The support may comprise a non-distensible electrode backing that is spirally furled about an axis and coupled to an expansion member suach as an inflatable elastic balloon. In some embodiments, the balloon is inflated to selectively expose a portion of the electrode surface while maintaining the electrode density.

Abstract: A bipolar coagulating instrument includes a blade-like electrode assembly comprising an upper planar face and a lower planar face separated by an intermediate portion of insulating material therebetween. The upper face includes first and second electrodes separated by a first insulating member, and the lower face includes third and fourth electrodes separated by a second insulating member. The first and second insulating members are out of correlation one with respect to the other, such that there is at least one region in which the first electrode overlies the third electrode, and at least one other region in which the first electrode overlies the fourth electrode. A cutting electrode is provided between the upper and lower faces, extending marginally beyond the periphery thereof.

Abstract: An electrode sealing assembly for use in combination with an electrosurgical instrument includes first and second jaw members which are movable from a first, spaced-apart position to a second position to grasp tissue. Each of the jaw members includes an insulative housing, a thermally conductive, electrically non-conductive material and a sealing plate. The insulative housing has a series of electromechanical interfaces which mate with a corresponding series of electromechanical interfaces which extend from the sealing plate such that the sealing plates are a capable of conducting bipolar energy through tissue held between the jaw members. The thermally conductive, electrically non-conductive material is configured to encapsulate and secure the sealing plate to the insulative housing.

Abstract: A bipolar electrosurgical instrument for cutting and sealing tissue comprises first and second jaw members movable between open and closed positions so as to be capable of grasping tissue therebetween. The first jaw member includes first and second coagulating electrodes on its inner surface, and an insulating member separating the first and second electrodes. The first jaw member also includes a third cutting electrode on an outer surface separate from the inner surface, and the second jaw member has a tissue-contacting surface which is electrically insulating over its entire surface. The electrosurgical instrument is capable of selectively causing coagulation of tissue between the first and second electrodes, and/or the cutting of tissue contacted by the third electrode.

Abstract: A device for reshaping the cornea to correct the refractive error thereof. A first electrode is adapted to be heated and inserted into the corneal stroma of the eye, thereby reshaping a portion of the cornea. A second electrode is adapted to be heated and inserted into the corneal stroma of the eye, thereby reshaping a portion of the cornea. A member couples the first and the second electrodes together, allowing for change of the refractive power of the cornea, while avoiding irregular shrinkage of the corneal tissue.

Abstract: A bipolar tubular shaft instrument (1) has instrument legs (3) and (4), for the operation of which a pull- and/or push rod (6) is axially displaceable within a tube (7). These two parts are insulated relative to one another and are connected to current terminals (11) and (12). For electrically connecting the push rod, a plug pin (15) is provided which is displaceable relative to an opposing contact (14) and engaged therewith. The plug pin (15) is arranged on the push rod (6) neighboring the connecting joint (9) with the actuating handle (10) in generally in a direction of orientation and movement. Thus the contact remains in existence in spite of the movement, and is present in each case upon the instrument legs being closed.

Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument and method is provided for transecting an organ. The electrosurgical instrument includes an introducer having a channel therein, and a conductive wire positioned in and deployable from the channel. A deployment device on the introducer is capable of moving the conductive wire between an undeployed position wherein it is substantially positioned within the channel, and a deployed position wherein a portion is deployed from and positioned outside of the channel and has a substantially looped configuration. A capture element at the distal end of the introducer can secure the distal end of the wire to the introducer, and the deployment device can subsequently move the wire toward the undeployed position to thereby cinch the conductive wire.

Abstract: An electrode assembly for use in combination with an electrosurgical instrument which includes opposing end effectors and a handle for effecting movement of the end effectors relative to one another. The assembly includes a housing having one portion which is removably engageable with the electrosurgical instrument and a pair of electrodes each having an electrically conductive sealing surface and an insulating substrate. The electrodes are removably engageable with the end effectors of the electrosurgical instrument such that the electrodes reside in opposing relation relative to one another. The insulating substrate is made from a plastic material having a high Comparative Tracking Index to reduce the incidence of flashover.

Abstract: An electrocautery instrument in accordance with the present invention facilitates a relatively non-invasive procedure for treating small varicose and spider veins. In the furtherance of this and other objectives, an electrocautery device is provided that does not have to be inserted or into the veins in order to satisfactorily treat them. In particular, an exemplary electrocautery instrument can destroy the target tissue when brought into with the target vein. Moreover, the electrocautery instrument can destroy target veins without causing collateral damage to neighboring tissue. In the furtherance of this and other objectives a thin sheath of biocompatible material coats substantially the entire needle portion of the electrocautery instrument so as to prevent the exposure of neighboring tissue to its therapeutics. The sheath effectively shields surrounding tissue from exposure, while being sufficiently thin to allow for unobstructed insertion of the needle through the skin of a patient to the target site.

Abstract: An electrode assembly is provided having an active power element and a current return element extending through a flexible multilumen tube to be electrically insulated from each other. The active power element extends through the multilumen tube and terminates in a “J-hook” and is connected to a conductive power contact through a constructed form fit. The return element extends through the multilumen tube and directly connects to a power return contact, thus eliminating any joints in the electrical path.

Abstract: A multifunctional telescopic monopolar/bipolar electrosurgery pencil is disclosed for use with an electrosurgery unit (ESU). The monopolar/bipolar electrosurgery pencil includes a bipolar electrode having an insulator sandwiched between an active electrode and a return electrode wherein the bipolar electrode is connected to a handpiece capable of alternately effectuating cutting and coagulation with the bipolar electrode. The monopolar/bipolar electrosurgery pencil is capable of functioning as both a monopolar and bipolar device and can be used for open and closed laparoscopic and endoscopic procedures. Telescopic means for adjusting the length of the bipolar electrode is also provided as are means for smoke evacuation and suction/irrigation. The multifunctional telescopic monopolar/bipolar device can also be adapted for use with an ESU argon beam coagulator.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for transmural ablation using an instrument containing two electrodes or cryogenic probes. A clamping force is exerted on the two electrodes or probes such that the tissue of the hollow organ is clamped therebetween. Bipolar RF energy is then applied between the two electrodes, or the probes are cryogenically cooled, thus ablating the tissue therebetween. A monitoring device measures a suitable parameter, such as impedance or temperature, and indicates when the tissue between the electrodes has been fully ablated.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a device for transporting a molecule through a mammalian barrier membrane of at least one layer of cells comprising the steps of: ablating the membrane with an electric current from a treatment electrode; and utilizing a driving force to move the molecule through the perforated membrane.

Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for selectively applying electrical energy to a target location within a patient's body, particularly including tissue in the spine. The present invention applies high frequency (RF) electrical energy to one or more electrode terminals in the presence of electrically conductive fluid to contract collagen fibers within the tissue structures. In one aspect of the invention, a system and method is provided for removing a vertebral disc in preparation for implanting a prosthetic disc or removing a portion of the vertebral disc such as the nucleus pulposus in preparation for placing a prosthetic nucleus within the annulus of the disc. The present invention also teaches shrinking residual tissue in preparation for placing the implants.

Abstract: A virtual ablation electrode assembly includes a non-conductive outer cap fitted over an inner electrode to form a fluid chamber between a cap inner surface and an exterior surface of the electrode. The inner electrode includes an interior fluid trunk and one or more fluid distribution branches extending from the fluid trunk to the exterior surface. A plurality of pores extends between the cap inner surface and a cap outer surface. When the electrode is energized and when fluid is delivered through the one or more fluid distribution branches from the trunk, the conductive fluid fills the fluid chamber and flows out from the chamber through the plurality of pores of the cap establishing ionic transport of ablation energy from the inner electrode to a target site in close proximity to the cap.

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: For stopping bleeding at an incensed wound, quickly, with using a medical manipulator system, having a plural number of manipulators therein, the medical manipulator system comprises manipulators, each having an operation tool, respectively. Onto the operation tools is applied current, alternately, from a positive electrode of a bipolar electric power source. Onto the other operation tool is applied current from a negative electrode of the bipolar electric power source. Driving the operation tool cauterizes a portion of an affected portion, thereby stopping bleeding in a wide region.

Abstract: Delivery elements, including needle electrodes and sheaths of tissue ablation devices, containing a conductivity-enhancing agent are discussed. The delivery elements contain a body member and optionally one or more coating layers. The conductivity-enhancing agent is disposed on or in the body member and/or at least one of the one or more coating layers. The conductivity-enhancing agent is capable of eluting from the delivery element when the delivery element is contacted with bodily tissue or fluid and increases conductivity of the tissue, making tissue ablation more efficient.

Abstract: A surgical instrument comprises at least two elongate hollow tubes (14, 15), each having an aperture (18) at the distal end portion. The inner tube (14) is disposed within the other tube (15), and is mounted for rotation about its longitudinal axis. A cutting tool (4) is located at the distal end of the tube (14), and is positioned adjacent to the apertures (18). A motor (5) is provided for rotating the inner tube (14), and the inner tube (14) has a central lumen (21) through which tissue cut by the cutting tool (4) is removed under the action of a source of suction (12). Heat is supplied to the tissue, prior to, or simultaneously with, the cutting thereof, such that the tissue being cut by the cutting tool (4) is coagulated tissue. In one embodiment, there is a third tube (16), and saline is fed to the apertures (18) via a channel (19) between the tubes (15) and (16). The outer tube (16) constitutes an active electrode, and the inner tube (14) constitutes the return electrode of an electrosurgical device.

Abstract: Systems and methods employ a guide element that carries a region of energy emitting material. The systems and methods electronically couple the region to a source of energy that, when emitted by the region, ablates tissue. The systems and methods are responsive to user commands for changing the physical characteristics of the lesions being created by electronically altering the energy emitting characteristics of the region itself.

Abstract: A high-frequency coagulation apparatus according to the present invention comprises a controller for controlling supply of the fluid from a fluid supply section to a tubular body and controlling supply of the high-frequency electric current from a high-frequency electric current generation section to an electrode, wherein the controller has a first mode for supplying the high-frequency electric current from the high-frequency electric current generation section to the electrode and supplying the fluid from the fluid supply section to the tubular body, and a second mode for supplying the high-frequency electric current from the high-frequency electric current generation section to the electrode and interrupting supply of the fluid from the fluid supply section to the tubular body.

Abstract: A catheter includes a plurality of primary leads to deliver energy for ligating a hollow anatomical structure. Each of the primary leads includes an electrode located at the working end of the catheter. Separation is maintained between the primary leads such that each primary lead can individually receive power of selected polarity. The primary leads are constructed to expand outwardly to place the electrodes into apposition with a hollow anatomical structure. High frequency energy can be applied from the leads to create a heating effect in the surrounding tissue of the anatomical structure. The diameter of the hollow anatomical structure is reduced by the heating effect, and the electrodes of the primary leads are moved closer to one another. Where the hollow anatomical structure is a vein, energy is applied until the diameter of the vein is reduced to the point where the vein is occluded. In one embodiment, a balloon is inflated to occlude the structure before the application of energy.

Abstract: A thermokeratoplasty system and method for locally heating and reshaping a cornea in a manner that produces a minimal regression of the corneal correction. The system includes a probe that is coupled to a power source which can provide current at a predetermined power, frequency and time duration. The probe has a sharp tip that is inserted into the stroma of the cornea. The tip has an insulated stop that controls the depth of tip penetration. Current flows into the cornea through the probe tip to locally heat and denature the corneal tissue. The denatured tissue causes a subsequent shrinkage of the cornea. A pattern of denatured areas can be created around the cornea to correct the vision of the eye.