Ablation catheter apparatus with one or more electrodes

Abstract

A radio frequency (RF) ablation catheter has a flexible distal end portion so that it can be deflected to position an antenna disposed in the distal end portion adjacent a tissue site to be treated. At least one electrical conductor is coupled to the antenna and extends through the catheter to the proximal end of the catheter to a connector at the proximal end of the catheter for connection to a power supply for the RF antenna. At least one electrode is disposed at the distal end portion of the catheter and electrically coupled to the proximal end connector for connection to a monitor. The electrode is of a flexible, electrically conductive material such as conductive polymer material. The electrode may be an electrocardiogram (ECG) electrode.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11 / 359,808 of concurrent ownership, filed on Feb. 22, 2006, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 306,757, filed Nov. 27, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,004,938, which claims the benefit of Provisional Application No. 60 / 334,199, filed Nov. 29, 2001 and the contents of each of these documents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.BACKGROUND [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention generally relates to medical devices used for ablation of biological tissues, and more particularly to an ablation catheter apparatus incorporating one or more electrodes such as electrocardiogram (ECG) electrodes. [0004] 2. Related Art [0005] Ablation catheters apply energy to a biological tissue site which requires ablation. Such catheters may use various energy modes, such as radiofrequency, ultrasound, laser, cryogenic, and ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The ablation catheter system described in this patent has several technical effects. Firstly, it uses a flexible polymer material for the electrodes, which makes them easier to bend and conform to the body vessel being treated. Secondly, the system avoids the use of metallic electrodes, which can cause complications during the procedure. Lastly, the system includes a connector for connecting to a control unit, which allows for real-time control and monitoring of the ablation procedure. Overall, this system provides a safer and more effective tool for treating abnormal heart rhythms."

Problems solved by technology

Naked metallic electrodes installed wrongly can absorb ablation energy and become hot.

Hot electrodes can have adverse effects on the heart or other biological tissues or organs, such as blood clot formation, adherence to tissue, and tissue charring.

Naked metallic electrodes can also impede efficient delivery of energy and hinder ablation efficiency.

Additionally, metallic electrodes can separate from the catheter when it is bent, resulting in inaccurate or lost signals.

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