Bipolar ablation probe having porous electrodes for delivering electrically conductive fluid

Abstract

A tissue ablation probe comprises an elongated probe shaft, at least one fluid perfusion lumen longitudinally extending through the probe shaft, and a plurality of electrodes carried by the distal end of the probe shaft. Each of the electrodes includes a porous structure in fluid communication with the at least one perfusion lumen. The electrodes have a substantially co-extensive surface.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to tissue ablation devices, and more particularly to ablation devices for achieving tissue resection. Background technique [0002] Monopolar electrosurgical devices typically include an electrosurgical probe having a first or "active" electrode electrically connected to an electrosurgical generator. A second or "return" electrode, having a much larger surface area than the active electrode, is placed in contact with the patient's skin. For bipolar modality, no return electrode is used. Instead, the second electrode is located in close proximity to the first electrode, both electrodes being connected to the electrosurgical probe. When the aforementioned generator is activated, an arc of current flows through the intervening tissue from the first electrode tip to the second electrode tip. [0003] Whether arranged in a monopolar or bipolar fashion, active electrodes can be used to cut tissue or coagulate tissue. When us...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

For example, if fluid flow is temporarily stopped, such as if a port on a fluid delivery device is plugged or blocked, RF energy continues to be delivered from the electrodes, resulting in tissue charring

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