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Abstract

Devices and methods for performing percutaneous myocardial revascularization (PMR) are disclosed. A PMR system in accordance with the present invention includes a first electrode disposed proximate the end of a catheter, a second electrode adapted for connection to the body of a patient, and an ablation current source for providing an ablation current. The ablation current source includes a first output coupled to the first electrode and a second output coupled to the second electrode. In a preferred embodiment, the ablation current source has an enabled state in which an ablation current may be passed between the first electrode and the second electrode, and a disabled state in which the passage of an ablation current between the first electrode and the second electrode is prevented. The PMR system also includes an ablation controller coupled to the ablation current source for providing an enable signal to the ablation current source, wherein the enable signal controls whether the ablation current source is in the enabled state or the disabled state. A sensing block for sensing a differential voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode is coupled to the ablation controller. The sensing block includes a first input coupled to the first electrode and a second input coupled to the second electrode.

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First Claim