Steerable ablation device with linear ionically conductive balloon

Abstract

Devices, systems, and methods for performing ablation therapy on body tissue are disclosed. An example ablation device for treating body tissue includes an ionically conductive balloon and a radio-frequency electrode that delivers RF energy into a distal section of the balloon. The balloon can have a composite structure with a non-conductive section and a conductive section. The ablation device can have a steering mechanism configured to deflect the balloon.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 to US Provisional Application Serial No. 61 / 780,911 filed March 13, 2013, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. technical field [0003] The present disclosure generally relates to ablation devices. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to steerable ablation devices including ionized conductive balloons for performing radiofrequency ablation therapy on body tissue. Background technique [0004] Treatment of cardiac arrhythmias is typically performed in conjunction with an ablation catheter inserted into the ventricles or into one of the blood vessels leading to or from the heart. In the treatment of atrial fibrillation, for example, a radio frequency (RF) ablation catheter equipped with multiple electrodes may be brought into contact with cardiac tissue to create one or more ablation sites along the tissue. During ablation...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0005] During some ablation procedures, it may be difficult to electrically insulate the tissue to be treated from the spot ablation catheter

For example, in the treatment of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, isolation of the pulmonary veins is often tedious and time-consuming using ablation catheters with ablation electrodes in direct tissue contact

In addition, ablation by metal ablation electrodes can cause tissue dehydration, which can lead to scarring and calcification as the wound heals

Images