Cryoablation apparatuses, systems, and methods for renal neuromodulation

Abstract

Catheter apparatuses, systems, and methods for cryogenically modulating neural structures of the renal plexus by intravascular access are disclosed herein. One aspect of the present application, for example, is directed to apparatuses, systems, and methods that incorporate a catheter treatment device comprising an elongated shaft. The elongated shaft is sized and configured to deliver a cryo-applicator to a renal artery via an intravascular path. Cryogenic renal neuromodulation may be achieved via application of cryogenic temperatures to modulate neural fibers that contribute to renal function, or of vascular structures that feed or perfuse the neural fibers.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Application 61 / 371,110, filed August 5, 2010, and US Provisional Application 61 / 406,968, filed October 26, 2010. The aforementioned application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. technical field [0003] The technology disclosed herein relates generally to devices, systems and methods for neural modulation. More specifically, the technology disclosed herein relates to catheter devices, systems and methods for intravascular renal neuromodulation using cryogenic temperatures. Background technique [0004] Hypertension, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome represent significant and growing global health problems and may, to some extent, share a common underlying physiological cause. Current therapies for these various conditions typically include non-pharmacological, pharmacological and...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Despite this variety of treatment options, rates of blood pressure control and therapeutic attempts to prevent the progression of these disease states and their sequelae remain unsatisfactory

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