Devices and methods for ablation of tissue

Abstract

Devices and methods for the treatment of heart conditions, hypertension, and other medical disorders are described. For example, this document describes devices and methods for treating atrial fibrillation by performing thoracic vein ablation procedures, including pulmonary vein myocardium ablation. In some embodiments, the ablation is performed in coordination with the delivery a pharmacological agent that can abate the formation of tissue stenosis or neointimal hyperplasia caused by the ablation. Additionally, in some embodiments, particulate matter, such as thrombus or crystalline drug compounds, created during the ablation is captured and removed from the patient using devices and methods provided herein. Further, devices and methods for non-thermal methods of causing cell death, such as tissue suction and tissue stretching, are also described.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 247,048, filed Oct. 27, 2015. The disclosure of the prior application is considered part of and is incorporated by reference in the disclosure of this application.BACKGROUND1. Technical Field[0002]This document relates to devices and methods for the treatment of medical disorders including heart conditions and hypertension. For example, among other things this document relates to devices and methods for treating atrial fibrillation by performing thoracic vein ablation procedures, including pulmonary vein myocardium ablation. In some embodiments, the ablation procedures are performed in coordination with the delivery a pharmacological agent that can provide therapeutic effects such as the abatement of tissue stenosis or neointimal hyperplasia that may otherwise be caused by the ablation. Additionally, in some embodiments, particulate matter, such as thrombus or crys...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes devices and methods for effectively treating medical conditions such as atrial fibrillation and hypertension. It also promotes fibrosis and embolic protection. The devices and methods capture and remove particulate matter generated by the ablation process and cause irreversible cell death. Overall, it provides improved treatment outcomes and reduced complications.

Problems solved by technology

Atrial fibrillation is an irregular and often rapid heart rate that commonly causes poor blood flow to the body.

The energy delivered causes scarring of the tissue.

However, an undesirable side effect of treatment of atrial fibrillation by pulmonary vein ablation is pulmonary vein stenosis and neointimal hyperplasia.

Pulmonary vein stenosis can result in reduced cardiopulmonary efficiency and a decline in quality of life.

However, such partial-circumferential ablation procedures are generally less effective for eliminating atrial fibrillation in comparison to ablation of the entire circumference of the pulmonary veins and / or pulmonary vein ostia.

Such particulate matter may otherwise potentially become harmful emboli.

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