Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A tissue heating instrument includes a device with a window at its distal end for admitting tissue against or into a compartment within the device. A cylindrical cartridge in the compartment includes a heating surface that supports an electrically conductive heating element, e.g. a band or wire. The tissue adjacent to the heating element can be heated to a selected temperature by generating an electrical current through the heating element. The device is maneuverable to position its distal end near the tissue to be treated. The device also incorporates a vacuum feature that urges tissue into the compartment prior to heating and assists in holding the tissue during the heating process. The device incorporates a dilatation balloon or other feature to urge the device against the tissue, so that at least part of the tissue may come in contact with, or enter the compartment through the window. Then, the cartridge is manipulated from the device's proximal end to move the heating element across the window, heating the adjacent tissue. According to alternative embodiments, the cartridge is either rotated or moved axially relative to the device and, in either event may be capable of closing the device window when the heating is complete. An additional feature of the device includes fluid (therapeutic or other) infusion before, during or after heating the targeted tissue.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim