Abstract:
Methods and apparatus for ablating a target tissue are discussed. Such methods and apparatus include those that simplify tissue ablation. For example, a tissue ablation device having an actuator, such as a trigger mechanism, coupled to a power source and an electrode is discussed. A single step of engaging the actuator causes the electrode to be introduced into the target tissue and causes energy to be delivered from the power supply to the tissue via the electrode. By way of additional example, a tissue ablation device having an actuator coupled to a fluid source and an electrode is discussed. A single step of engaging the actuator causes conductive fluid to flow from the fluid source to the target tissue location and causes the electrode to be introduced to the target tissue location. The fluid source may be a conductive fluid, such as saline, which may increase the efficiency of ablation. Various other configurations and methods that simplify tissue ablation are also discussed.
Abstract:
The disclosure describes a system that may be used to deliver ablation therapy to a target tissue within a patient. The system uses a flexible catheter to navigate through a passage and reach a target tissue. Once at the desired location, a side of the flexible catheter is forced against a wall of the passage to allow a needle to be extended from the side of the flexible catheter and into the target tissue. A pull-wire or inflatable balloon may be used as the control mechanism that forces the flexible catheter against the passage wall. In the case of the pull-wire, the flexible catheter may also be steered through the passage. As an example, the flexible catheter may be inserted into the urethra and the needle may be deployed into the prostate to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).
Abstract:
The disclosure describes an axial lead connector assembly for an implantable medical device (IMD). The lead connector assembly facilitates electrical connection between an implantable medical lead and circuitry contained within the housing of an IMD. A connector header defines an axial stack bore to receive an axial stack of in-line connector components. The connector components define a common lead bore to receive a proximal end of an implantable lead. The in-line stack of connector components may include seals, electrical connector elements, a strain relief, and a locking device, each of which defines a passage that forms part of the lead bore.
Abstract:
Delivery elements, including needle electrodes and sheaths of tissue ablation devices, containing a conductivity-enhancing agent are discussed. The delivery elements contain a body member and optionally one or more coating layers. The conductivity-enhancing agent is disposed on or in the body member and/or at least one of the one or more coating layers. The conductivity-enhancing agent is capable of eluting from the delivery element when the delivery element is contacted with bodily tissue or fluid and increases conductivity of the tissue, making tissue ablation more efficient.
Abstract:
An implantable medical electrical lead particularly for stimulation of the sacral nerves comprises a lead body extending between a distal end and a proximal end, and the distal end having at least one electrode of an electrode array extending longitudinally from the distal end toward the proximal end. The lead body at its proximal end may be coupled to a pulse generator, additional intermediate wiring, or other stimulation device. A fixation mechanism is formed on or integrally with the lead body proximal to the electrode array that is adapted to be implanted in and engage subcutaneous tissue, particularly muscle tissue, to inhibit axial movement of the lead body and dislodgement of the stimulation electrodes. The fixation mechanism comprises a M tine elements arrayed in a tine element array along a segment of the lead proximal to the stimulation electrode array. Each tine element comprises at least N flexible, pliant, tines, each tine having a tine width and thickness and extending through a tine length from an attached tine end to a free tine end. The attached tine end is attached to the lead body from a tine attachment site and supports the tine extending outwardly of the lead body and proximally toward the lead proximal end. The M×N tines are adapted to be folded inward against the lead body when fitted into and constrained by the lumen of an introducer such that the tine free ends of more distal tines of more distal tine elements are urged toward or alongside the attached tine ends of the adjacent more proximal tines of more proximal tine elements, and the folded tines do not overlap one another.
Abstract:
The invention is directed to a technique for delivering a denervating agent to a patient's prostate gland. In particular, the invention is directed to a transurethral technique for delivering the denervating agent. Devices and systems are also described for use in implementing the technique.
Abstract:
An implantable biomedical conductor assembly is configured for at least partial insertion in a living body. The implantable conductor assembly includes an inner tubular structure and an outer tubular structure generally surrounding the inner tubular structures such that a gap of less than about 0.030 inches exists there between. A dynamic coil is located in the gap. The dynamic coil includes a plurality of insulated conductors that are coiled generally at or below a yield point. The insulated conductors are permitted to expand within the gap to engage an inner surface of the outer tubular structure in an expanded coiled configuration. At least one mechanical restraint at each of a distal end and a proximal end retains the dynamic coil in the tubular structures. Free ends of the insulated conductors extend beyond the proximal and distal ends to facilitate attachment to electrodes and connectors.
Abstract:
A therapy assembly configured for at least partial insertion in a living body. A plurality of fixation structures are disposed radially around the therapy delivery element proximate the electrodes. The fixation structures include wires having a diameter in a range between about 0.004 inches and about 0.020 inches. The wires have a first end attached to the therapy delivery element and a second end attached to a sliding member configured to slide along the therapy delivery element. The fixation structures are configured to collapse inward to a collapsed configuration when inserted into a lumen of an introducer and to deploy to a deployed configuration when the introducer is retracted. A fitting is located at proximal end of the introducer that releasably locks the therapy delivery element to the introducer, such that torque applied to the fitting is substantially transmitted to the distal end of the therapy assembly.
Abstract:
A burr hole plug comprises a plug base configured for being mounted around a burr hole. The plug base includes an aperture through which an elongated medical device exiting the burr hole may pass. The burr hole plug further comprises a retainer configured for being mounted within the aperture of the plug base. The retainer further includes first and second slidable clamping mechanisms configured for securing the medical devices therebetween within the aperture of the plug base. A method comprises introducing the medical device through the burr hole, mounting a plug base around the burr hole, such that the medical device extends through the plug base aperture, mounting the retainer within the aperture of the plug base, and sliding the first and second clamping mechanisms secure the medical device therebetween.
Abstract:
Suture anchors for securing therapy delivery elements, such as stimulation leads or catheters, within a living body. The suture anchor includes an inner sleeve constructed with an inner layer of a softer, more pliable material that easily conforms to the therapy delivery element to reduce slippage and an outer layer constructed from a harder, stiffer durometer material that protects the therapy delivery elements from damage due to over-tightening the tie down sutures. A suture material located in the suture groove is tensioned to apply a radial compressive force. The reinforcing structure spreads the radial compressive force along a greater surface area of the therapy delivery element.