Importance

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Abstract

Systems, apparatus and methods are provided for canalizing or boring channels, divots, trenches or holes through tissue to revascularize the region around this tissue. In one method, an electrode terminal is positioned in close proximity to a target site and a high frequency voltage difference is applied between the electrode terminal and a return electrode to volumetrically remove or ablate tissue at the target site. The electrode terminal(s) may be translated relative to the body structure during or after the application of electrical energy to sculpt a void within the body structure, such as a hole, channel, stripe, crater, divot or the like. The present invention may be useful for revascularization of a healthy meniscus, or a torn or damaged meniscus during a repair procedure. For example, channels may be formed from the inner aspect to the outer aspect of the meniscus to promote direct communication between blood within the outer aspect and that of existing meniscus vasculature to increase blood flow therein.

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First Claim