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Method and apparatus for controlled contraction of soft tissue

  • US 6,482,204 B1
  • Filed: 04/24/1996
  • Issued: 11/19/2002
  • Est. Priority Date: 05/06/1994
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. An orthopedic apparatus for contracting collagen containing tissues comprising:

  • an electrode having a conductive surface formed with a plurality of apertures and a central lumen for circulating an electrolytic solution;

    an insulated housing configured for slidable movement along the surface of the collagen containing tissue that surrounds the electrode providing a dam to at least partially contain the electrolytic solution passing through the plurality of apertures formed in the conductive surface of the electrode at a selected site along the collagen containing tissue;

    a holding container for storing the electrolytic solution to be circulated through the electrode;

    a fluid conduit and pump assembly to deliver the electrolytic solution from the holding container through the plurality of apertures formed in the electrode to effect heat transfer between the electrolytic solution and the collagen containing tissue thereby inducing contraction of the collagen fibers contained in the tissue; and

    a cuff surrounding the insulated housing in a spaced apart relation to form a return fluid passageway to direct the electrolytic solution away from the collagen containing tissue.

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