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Electrosurgical system and method

  • US 20040030333A1
  • Filed: 04/04/2003
  • Published: 02/12/2004
  • Est. Priority Date: 01/15/1999
  • Status: Abandoned Application
First Claim
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1. A method of treating a soft tissue lesion located in the oropharynx or larynx of a patient using an electrosurgical system comprising:

  • an electrosurgical generator adapted to generate a radio frequency oscillating voltage output across first and second output terminals;

    an electrosurgical instrument having an active tissue treatment electrode connected to the first generator output terminal;

    fluid delivery means for delivering electrically-conductive fluid to the lesion to be treated; and

    a return electrode connected to the second generator output terminal, the method comprising the steps of;

    isolating from the trachea and lungs, in a substantially fluid-tight manner, a space in the oropharynx or larynx within which the lesion to be treated is located, and within which at least the active electrode is located;

    operating the fluid delivery means at least partly to fill the space with electrically-conductive fluid;

    operating the generator to apply a radio frequency voltage between the active and return electrodes, and completing at least a part of a conduction path between the active and return electrodes using the electrically-conductive fluid; and

    manipulating the active electrode in the vicinity of the lesion to be treated.

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