Method and device for thermal ablation

Abstract

Abstract A thermal ablation catheter (10) includes an elongate body member (12) having a heating element (40) disposed over its distal end (16). The heating element (40) is suspended away the surface of the elongate member (12) to form a circulation region (20) thereunder. Thermally conductive fluid can be introduced through a lumen (28) in the elongate member (12) and distributed within the circulation region (20) to improve heat transfer. The catheter (10) introduces the thermally conductive medium to hollow organ where the heating element (40) raises the medium temperature sufficiently to induce injury to the organ lining. Optionally, an introducer sheath (50) having an expandable cage (56) may be used in combination with a thermal ablation catheter (10) to center the heating element (40) within the body organ and prevent direct contact with the organ wall. Heat transfer and temperature uniformity can be enhanced by inducing an oscillatory flow of the heat transfer medium through the catheter (10) while heat is being applied.

Inventors

• 👤 Colin J. Nichols
• 👤 William R. Dubrul
• 👤 Robert S. Behl

Bibliographic Details