Tissue visualization device and method variations
First Claim
Patent Images
1. A method of treating a tissue region within a body lumen, comprising:
- positioning an open area of a barrier or membrane projecting distally from a deployment catheter against or adjacent to the tissue region to be treated, wherein the barrier or membrane self-expands into an expanded deployed configuration, and where the barrier or membrane comprises a non-inflatable membrane which defines the open area therein which is in fluid communication with a lumen defined through the catheter and also with an environment external to the barrier or membrane through an opening defined by the barrier or membrane;
displacing an opaque fluid with a transparent fluid from the open area defined by the barrier or membrane and the tissue region by infusing one or more streams of the transparent fluid into the open area in a spiral manner such that the opaque fluid is displaced from within the open area and through the opening into the environment external to the barrier or membrane; and
visualizing the tissue region within the open area through the transparent fluid.
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Abstract
Tissue visualization devices and variations thereof are described herein where such devices may utilize a variety of methods for facilitating clearing of the device of opaque bodily fluids and sealing between the device and the underlying tissue surface. Additionally, methods and devices for enhancing navigation of the device through a patient body are also described.
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Citations
11 Claims
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1. A method of treating a tissue region within a body lumen, comprising:
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positioning an open area of a barrier or membrane projecting distally from a deployment catheter against or adjacent to the tissue region to be treated, wherein the barrier or membrane self-expands into an expanded deployed configuration, and where the barrier or membrane comprises a non-inflatable membrane which defines the open area therein which is in fluid communication with a lumen defined through the catheter and also with an environment external to the barrier or membrane through an opening defined by the barrier or membrane; displacing an opaque fluid with a transparent fluid from the open area defined by the barrier or membrane and the tissue region by infusing one or more streams of the transparent fluid into the open area in a spiral manner such that the opaque fluid is displaced from within the open area and through the opening into the environment external to the barrier or membrane; and visualizing the tissue region within the open area through the transparent fluid. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11)
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Specification