SYSTEM AND METHOD OF TREATING ABNORMAL TISSUE IN THE HUMAN ESOPHAGUS

• US 20090048593A1
• Filed: 10/27/2008
• Published: 02/19/2009
• Est. Priority Date: 11/16/1999
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: Covidien LP (Medtronic Plc)
• Original Assignee: Covidien LP (Medtronic Plc)
• Inventors: Ganz, Robert A., Zelickson, Brian D., Stern, Roger A.
• Granted Patent: US 8,398,631 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 606/34
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 18/1485 having a short rigid shaft for accessing the inner body through natural openings
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 18/1492 having a flexible, catheter-like structure, e.g. for heart ablation A61B18/1477 takes precedence
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 18/18 by applying electromagnetic radiation, e.g. microwaves radiation therapy A61N5/00
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 2018/00214 Expandable means emitting energy, e.g. by elements carried thereon
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 2018/0022 Balloons
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 2018/00482 Digestive system
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 2018/00553 Sphincter
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 2018/00577 Ablation
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 2018/00738 Depth, e.g. depth of ablation
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 2018/00797 measured by multiple temperature sensors
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 2018/126 bipolar
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 2018/1467 using more than two electrodes on a single probe

Abstract

An ablation catheter system and method of use is provided to endoscopically access portions of the human esophagus experiencing undesired growth of columnar epithelium. The ablation catheter system and method includes controlled depth of ablation features and use of either radio frequency spectrum, non-ionizing ultraviolet radiation, warm fluid or microwave radiation, which may also be accompanied by improved sensitizer agents.

Claims

1. A system for ablating abnormal tissue from a human esophagus, comprising:

a. energy distribution means capable of distributing radio frequency energy, microwave energy, ultraviolet light energy or thermal energy, transmitted from a heated fluid medium;

adapted for use with an expandable member shaped for insertion into and positioning in a human esophagus;

b. power means for powering the energy distribution means at levels appropriate to ablate human tissue within a human esophagus; and

c. control means designed for accurate control and positioning of the member.