User interface and locking features for positioning multiple components within the body

Abstract

The present invention is entitled "User Interface and Locking Feature Structure for Positioning Multiple Components in the Body". The present invention discloses embodiments including devices, systems and methods for positioning electrodes in the body. In an exemplary embodiment, the device for slidably moving multiple features relative to a sheath includes a primary actuator, the sheath is insertable into the body and can be positioned relative to a reference point, and the primary actuator is configured to move a primary electrode to a first position. An auxiliary actuator is configured to move an auxiliary electrode to a second position. A covering device is configured to selectively prevent access to the auxiliary actuator until the primary actuator has been manipulated to extend the primary electrode to the first position.

Description

[0001] Priority Declaration

[0002] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application serial numbers 15 / 462,872 and 15 / 462,880, both filed on March 19, 2017, and both entitled “USER INTERFACE AND LOCKFEATURES FOR POSITIONING MULTIPLE COMPONENTS WITHIN A BODY,” each of which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application serial number 62 / 311,226, filed on March 21, 2016, and entitled “HANDLE FOR AN ABLATION DEVICE.” Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to user interfaces and locking features for positioning multiple components within the body. Background Art

[0004] The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

[0005] Inserting and manipulating thin components within living organisms or other objects allows for increasingly sophisticated types of analysis, diagnosis, and treatment of these organisms or objects using minimally invasive techniques. To give two examples, endoscopic imaging and intubation therapy enable the evaluation and treatment of many internal pathologies without invasive surgery.

[0006] Electrosurgery also provides minimally invasive therapy by selectively applying an electrical current to selected tissue. Electrosurgery involves extending one or more electrodes through an orifice or small incision to a desired location within the body and then applying a radiofrequency ("RF") current to the electrodes to coagulate and / or ablate tissue at that location. Monopolar electrosurgical instruments require the use of only one electrode that interacts with a neutral electrode that is also connected to the patient's body. Bipolar electrosurgical instruments typically include a user interface for positioning two electrodes, which may include a distal electrode and a proximal electrode.

[0007] Positioning one or both electrodes at the desired location is an important part of this type of electrosurgical treatment. Moving the electrodes and keeping them in place (especially when more than one electrode must be moved or held independently of one another) can be a challenge for the medical staff directing the treatment. Because positioning one or more electrodes in the proper location can involve adhering to a sequence of steps, it can also be important to help the operator follow the sequence correctly. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Embodiments disclosed herein include devices for slidably moving multiple components within the body, systems for treating tissue at a reference point, and methods for moving an electrode into position for ablative electrical treatment at a reference point.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath includes a primary actuator configured to move a primary electrode, a secondary actuator configured to move a secondary electrode, and a control mechanism, wherein the sheath is inserted into a body and positioned relative to a reference point. The control mechanism is configured to selectively prevent movement of at least one of the primary actuator and the secondary actuator, prevent movement of the primary actuator based on a position of the secondary actuator, prevent movement of the secondary actuator based on a position of the primary actuator, and lock the positions of the primary actuator and the secondary actuator.

[0010] In another exemplary embodiment, a system for treating tissue at a reference point includes a controllable power source configured to selectively provide power between a first pole and a second pole. An electrosurgical device is configured to be inserted into a body to deliver a sheath proximate the reference point, wherein the sheath houses a primary electrode electrically coupled to a first pole of the power source and an auxiliary electrode electrically coupled to a second pole of the power source. A sheath actuator is configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point. A sheath lock is configured to selectively lock the position of the sheath. The primary actuator is configured to move the primary electrode. The auxiliary actuator is configured to move the auxiliary electrode. A control mechanism includes a control mechanism configured to selectively prevent movement of at least one of the primary actuator and the auxiliary actuator and to lock the positions of the primary actuator and the auxiliary actuator, wherein movement of the primary actuator is prevented based on the position of the auxiliary actuator, and movement of the auxiliary actuator is prevented based on the position of the primary actuator.

[0011] In another exemplary embodiment, a method for preparing an electrode for performing ablative electrical treatment of tissue at a reference point is provided. A sheath is extended to house a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode, wherein the auxiliary electrode is housed within the primary electrode and initially coupled for movement with the primary electrode. The primary electrode is unlocked for movement, the primary electrode is moved to a first position near the reference point, and the primary electrode is locked in position at the first position. The auxiliary electrode is unlocked for movement, the auxiliary electrode is moved to a second position near the reference point, and the auxiliary electrode is locked in position at the second position.

[0012] In another exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath includes a primary actuator configured to move a primary electrode, an auxiliary actuator configured to deploy an auxiliary electrode by moving the auxiliary electrode independently of the primary electrode, and a control mechanism, wherein the sheath is inserted into a body and positioned relative to a reference point. The control mechanism includes a primary release configured to selectively allow movement of the primary actuator, an auxiliary release configured to selectively disengage the auxiliary actuator from the primary actuator and allow movement of the auxiliary actuator within a predetermined range, and an actuator interlock configured to selectively prevent activation of the primary release.

[0013] In another exemplary embodiment, a system for treating tissue at a reference point includes a power source configured to selectively provide power between a first pole and a second pole. An electrosurgical device is configured to be inserted into the body to deliver a sheath proximate the reference point, wherein the sheath houses a primary electrode electrically coupled to the first pole of the power source and an auxiliary electrode electrically coupled to the second pole of the power source. A sheath actuator is configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point, and a sheath lock is configured to selectively lock the position of the sheath. The primary actuator is configured to move the primary electrode. The auxiliary actuator is configured to deploy the auxiliary electrode by moving the auxiliary electrode independently of the primary electrode. A control mechanism includes a primary release configured to selectively allow movement of the primary actuator, an auxiliary release configured to selectively disengage the auxiliary actuator from the primary actuator and allow movement of the auxiliary actuator within a predetermined range, and an actuator interlock configured to selectively prevent activation of the primary release.

[0014] In another exemplary embodiment, a method of using a device to move an electrode to a position for performing ablative electrical treatment on tissue at a reference point includes extending a sheath toward the reference point. The sheath houses a primary electrode that is mechanically coupled to a primary actuator and selectively lockable by a primary release. The sheath also houses an auxiliary electrode that is mechanically coupled to an auxiliary actuator and lockable by an auxiliary release, wherein the auxiliary electrode is slidably received within the primary electrode. The primary release is activated to allow movement of the primary actuator. The primary actuator is moved to move the primary electrode to a first position relative to the reference point. The primary release is locked to lock the primary actuator, thereby maintaining the primary electrode in the first position. The auxiliary release is activated to disengage the auxiliary actuator from the primary actuator, thereby allowing the auxiliary actuator to move independently of the primary actuator. The auxiliary actuator is moved to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position relative to the reference point. The auxiliary release is locked to lock the auxiliary actuator, thereby maintaining the auxiliary electrode in the second position.

[0015] In another exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath includes a housing mechanically coupled to a primary electrode and defining a guide slot, wherein the sheath is inserted into a body and positioned relative to a reference point, the guide slot having a section transverse to an axis of the housing and a section parallel to the axis of the housing. A cannula having a distal end is configured to engage an electrosurgical device, and a proximal end is configured to be slidably received within a first end of the housing. A latch disposed at the first end of the housing is configured to selectively enable movement of the housing along the cannula to move the primary electrode to a first position relative to the reference point. An auxiliary actuator is received within the housing and coupled to the auxiliary electrode, wherein the auxiliary actuator is configured to move independently of the primary electrode parallel to the axis of the housing. An interlock lever is mechanically coupled to the auxiliary actuator and extends through the guide slot. The interlock lever also includes a clamp configured to lock the auxiliary actuator to the cannula when the auxiliary electrode reaches a second position relative to the reference point.

[0016] In another exemplary embodiment, a system for treating tissue at a reference point includes a power source configured to selectively provide power between a first pole and a second pole. An electrosurgical device is configured to be inserted into the body and to deliver a sheath proximate the reference point, wherein the sheath houses a primary electrode electrically coupled to a first pole of the power source and an auxiliary electrode electrically coupled to a second pole of the power source. A sheath actuator is configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point. A sheath lock is configured to selectively lock the position of the sheath. A housing is mechanically coupled to the primary electrode and includes a guide groove having a section transverse to an axis of the housing and a section parallel to the axis of the housing. A cannula having a distal end is configured to engage a bronchoscope, and a proximal end is configured to be slidably received within the first end of the housing. A latch is disposed at the first end of the housing and is configured to selectively enable movement of the housing along the cannula to move the primary electrode to a first position relative to the reference point. An auxiliary actuator, received within the housing, is coupled to the auxiliary electrode and is configured to move independently of the primary electrode parallel to the axis of the housing. An interlock lever is mechanically coupled to the auxiliary actuator and extends through the guide slot, and the interlock lever further includes a clamp configured to lock the auxiliary actuator to the cannula when the auxiliary electrode reaches a second position relative to the reference point.

[0017] In another exemplary embodiment, a method of moving an electrode to a position for performing ablative electrical treatment on tissue at a reference point includes extending a sheath that houses a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode, wherein the primary electrode is mechanically coupled to a housing and selectively lockable by a latch, and the auxiliary electrode is mechanically coupled to an auxiliary actuator and lockable by an interlocking lever. The auxiliary electrode is slidably received within the primary electrode. Releasing the latch enables the housing to move the primary electrode relative to the reference point. Sliding the housing to move the primary electrode to a first position relative to the reference point. Secure the latch to prevent the housing from moving relative to the cannula. The interlocking lever moves through a series of positions in a guide slot on the housing to disengage the auxiliary electrode from the primary electrode and move the auxiliary electrode to a second position relative to the reference point.

[0018] In another embodiment, the device for slidably moving multiple features relative to a sheath includes an auxiliary electrode slider mechanically coupled to the auxiliary electrode and supporting the auxiliary actuator, wherein the sheath is inserted into the body and positioned relative to a reference point. The primary electrode slider is configured to slidably and rotatably receive the auxiliary electrode slider, the primary electrode slider being mechanically coupled to the primary electrode, supporting the primary actuator, and defining an intermediate guide slot configured to receive and engage the auxiliary actuator. The outer housing includes a first end facing the reference point. The outer housing is configured to slidably and rotatably receive the primary electrode slider and define a first guide slot configured to receive and engage the primary actuator and a second guide slot configured to receive the auxiliary actuator when the auxiliary actuator is positioned below the second guide slot.

[0019] In another exemplary embodiment, a system for treating tissue at a reference point includes a power source configured to selectively provide power between a first pole and a second pole. The electrosurgical device is configured to be inserted into the body to deliver a sheath to the vicinity of the reference point, wherein the sheath houses a primary electrode electrically coupled to a first pole of the power source and an auxiliary electrode electrically coupled to a second pole of the power source. The sheath actuator is configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point. The sheath lock is configured to selectively lock the position of the sheath. The auxiliary electrode slider is mechanically coupled to the auxiliary electrode and supports the auxiliary actuator. The primary electrode slider is configured to slidably and rotatably receive the auxiliary electrode slider, is mechanically coupled to the primary electrode, supports the primary actuator, and defines an intermediate guide slot configured to receive and engage the auxiliary actuator. The outer housing has a first end facing the reference point and is configured to slidably and rotatably receive the primary electrode slider. The outer housing further includes a first guide channel configured to receive and engage the primary actuator and a second guide channel configured to receive the auxiliary actuator when the auxiliary actuator is positioned below the second guide channel.

[0020] In another exemplary embodiment, a method for moving an electrode to a position for performing ablative electrical treatment on tissue at a reference point includes extending a sheath, wherein the sheath houses a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode slidably received within the primary electrode. A device coupled to the primary and auxiliary electrodes is deployed, wherein the device includes an auxiliary electrode slider mechanically coupled to the auxiliary electrode and supporting an auxiliary actuator. The device includes the primary electrode slider mechanically coupled to the primary electrode, supporting the primary actuator, and defining an intermediate guide channel configured to receive and engage the auxiliary actuator. The device also includes an outer housing having a first end, wherein the outer housing defines a first guide channel configured to receive and engage the primary actuator and a second guide channel configured to receive the auxiliary actuator when the auxiliary actuator is positioned below the second guide channel. The primary actuator is moved toward a front end of the outer housing to position the primary electrode at a first position relative to the reference point. The outer housing is rotated to expose the intermediate guide channel below the second guide channel. The auxiliary actuator is moved toward the first end of the outer housing to position the auxiliary electrode at a second position relative to the reference point.

[0021] In another exemplary embodiment, a device is provided for slidably moving multiple features relative to a sheath inserted into the body and positioned relative to a reference point. The locking rod is configured to be fixed in position relative to the reference point. The main housing is mechanically coupled to the primary electrode. The main housing also includes an outwardly facing guide groove configured to selectively limit and allow sliding movement of the guide member. The main housing also includes a primary locking channel configured to rotatably receive the locking rod to prevent sliding movement of the main housing relative to the locking rod. The auxiliary housing is mechanically coupled to the auxiliary electrode. The auxiliary housing also includes an internal channel configured to slidably and rotatably receive the main housing and support the guide member. The auxiliary housing also includes an auxiliary locking channel configured to selectively fixably engage or slidably engage the locking rod. Rotation of the auxiliary housing selectively causes the locking rod to move in and out of the primary locking channel and within the auxiliary locking channel to selectively allow and prevent sliding movement of the locking rod relative to at least one of the main housing and the auxiliary housing.

[0022] In another exemplary embodiment, a system for treating tissue at a reference point includes a power source configured to selectively provide power to a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode between a first pole and a second pole. A locking rod is configured to be fixed in position relative to the reference point. A sheath actuator is configured to move a sheath housing the primary and auxiliary electrodes relative to the reference point and set the position of the locking rod relative to the reference point. A sheath lock is configured to selectively lock the position of the sheath and the locking rod. A primary housing is mechanically coupled to the primary electrode. The primary housing also includes an outwardly facing guide groove configured to selectively restrict and allow sliding movement of a guide member. The primary housing also includes a primary locking channel configured to rotatably receive the locking rod to prevent sliding movement of the primary housing relative to the locking rod. The auxiliary housing is mechanically coupled to the auxiliary electrode. The auxiliary housing also includes an internal channel configured to slidably and rotatably receive the primary housing and support the guide member. The auxiliary housing also includes an auxiliary locking channel configured to selectively fixably or slidably engage the locking rod. Rotation of the auxiliary housing selectively moves the locking bar in and out of the primary locking channel and within the auxiliary locking channel to selectively allow and prevent sliding movement of the locking bar relative to at least one of the primary housing and the auxiliary housing.

[0023] In another exemplary embodiment, a method for using a device to move an electrode to a position for performing ablative electrical treatment on tissue at a reference point is provided. A sheath is extended, wherein the sheath houses a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode slidably received within the primary electrode. A device is deployed to couple the primary electrode and the auxiliary electrode. The device includes a locking rod configured to be fixed in position relative to the reference point. The device also includes a main housing mechanically coupled to the primary electrode. The main housing also includes an outwardly facing guide groove configured to selectively limit and allow sliding movement of a guide member. The main housing also includes a primary locking channel configured to rotatably receive the locking rod to prevent sliding movement of the main housing relative to the locking rod. The device also includes an auxiliary housing mechanically coupled to the auxiliary electrode. The auxiliary housing also includes an internal channel configured to slidably and rotatably receive the main housing and support the guide member. The auxiliary housing also includes an auxiliary locking channel configured to selectively fixably engage or slidably engage the locking rod. The auxiliary housing is continuously slid and rotated to move the auxiliary housing and the main housing, thereby moving the main electrode and the auxiliary electrode to appropriate positions relative to a reference point, and the main housing is slid to move the main electrode.

[0024] In another exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath, wherein the sheath is insertable into a body and positionable relative to a reference point, comprises a primary actuator configured to move a primary electrode to a first position, an auxiliary actuator configured to move an auxiliary electrode to a second position, and a cover configured to selectively prevent access to the auxiliary actuator until the primary actuator has been manipulated to extend the primary electrode to the first position.

[0025] In another exemplary embodiment, a system for treating tissue at a reference point includes a controllable power source configured to selectively provide power between a first pole and a second pole. An electrosurgical device is configured to be inserted into the body to deliver a sheath to the vicinity of the reference point, wherein the sheath houses a primary electrode electrically coupled to the first pole of the power source and an auxiliary electrode electrically coupled to the second pole of the power source. The device also includes an electrode control device comprising a primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode to a first position. The auxiliary actuator is configured to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position. A cover device is configured to selectively prevent access to the auxiliary actuator until the primary actuator has been manipulated to extend the primary electrode to the first position.

[0026] In another exemplary embodiment, a method of preparing an electrode for performing ablative electrical treatment of tissue at a reference point includes extending a sheath containing a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode, wherein the auxiliary electrode is contained within the primary electrode and initially coupled to move with the primary electrode. A primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode is moved to a first position near the reference point. The primary actuator is moved to move a cover device to allow access to an auxiliary actuator configured to move the auxiliary electrode. The auxiliary actuator is moved to move a second electrode to a second position near the reference point.

[0027] In another exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath includes a shaft, wherein the sheath is insertable into a body and positionable relative to a reference point, the shaft being configured to allow a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode to slidably pass therethrough. A primary actuator is coupled to the primary electrode and is configured to slidably move on the shaft to move the primary electrode to a first position proximate the reference point. An auxiliary actuator is coupled to the auxiliary electrode and is configured to slidably move on the shaft to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position. A covering device is incorporated into the primary actuator and is configured to at least partially prevent access to the auxiliary actuator. The primary actuator is configured to slidably and rotatably move relative to the shaft, the primary actuator being further configured to rotate after the primary actuator has been moved to slidably move the primary electrode to the first position to move the covering device, thereby allowing access to the auxiliary actuator.

[0028] In another exemplary embodiment, a system for treating tissue at a reference point includes a controllable power source configured to selectively provide power between a first pole and a second pole. An electrosurgical device is configured to be inserted into the body to deliver a sheath to the vicinity of the reference point, wherein the sheath houses a primary electrode electrically coupled to a first pole of the power source and an auxiliary electrode electrically coupled to a second pole of the power source. The system also includes an electrode control device comprising a shaft configured to allow the primary electrode and the auxiliary electrode to slidably pass therethrough. A primary actuator is coupled to the primary electrode and is configured to slidably move on the shaft to move the primary electrode to a first position near the reference point. An auxiliary actuator is coupled to the auxiliary electrode and is configured to slidably move on the shaft to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position. A covering device is incorporated into the primary actuator and is configured to at least partially prevent access to the auxiliary actuator. The primary actuator is configured to slidably and rotatably move relative to the shaft, and the primary actuator is further configured to rotate to move the cover device after the primary actuator has been moved to slidably move the primary electrode to the first position, thereby allowing access to the secondary actuator.

[0029] In another exemplary embodiment, a method of preparing an electrode for performing ablative electrical treatment of tissue at a reference point includes extending a sheath that houses a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode, wherein the auxiliary electrode is housed within the primary electrode and is initially coupled to move with the primary electrode. Moving a primary actuator coupled to the primary electrode to move the primary electrode to a first position near the reference point. Rotating the primary actuator to expose an auxiliary actuator that was previously at least partially covered by the primary actuator and coupled to the auxiliary electrode to allow access to the auxiliary actuator configured to move the auxiliary electrode. Moving the auxiliary actuator to move a second electrode to a second position near the reference point.

[0030] In another exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath, wherein the sheath is insertable into a body and positionable relative to a reference point, the primary actuator being configured to move a primary electrode to a first position when a clamp of the primary actuator is slidably moved toward a first end. An auxiliary actuator being configured to move an auxiliary electrode to a second position when the clamp of the auxiliary actuator is slidably moved toward the first end. An external handle is configured to selectively prevent access to the auxiliary actuator clamp of the auxiliary actuator until the primary actuator has been manipulated to extend the primary electrode to the first position and rotated relative to the primary actuator to expose the auxiliary actuator.

[0031] In another exemplary embodiment, a system for treating tissue at a reference point includes a controllable power source configured to selectively provide power between a first pole and a second pole. An electrosurgical device is configured to be inserted into the body to deliver a sheath proximate the reference point, wherein the sheath houses a primary electrode electrically coupled to the first pole of the power source and an auxiliary electrode electrically coupled to the second pole of the power source. The system also includes an electrode control device comprising a primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode to a first position when a clamp of the primary actuator is slidably moved toward a first end. The auxiliary actuator is configured to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position when a clamp of the auxiliary actuator is slidably moved toward the first end. The external handle is configured to selectively prevent access to the auxiliary actuator clamp of the auxiliary actuator until the primary actuator has been manipulated to extend the primary electrode to the first position and rotated relative to the primary actuator to expose the auxiliary actuator clamp.

[0032] In another exemplary embodiment, a method of preparing an electrode for performing ablative electrical treatment of tissue at a reference point includes extending a sheath that houses a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode, wherein the auxiliary electrode is housed within the primary electrode and is initially coupled to move with the primary electrode. A primary actuator clamp slides within a channel defined in an external handle to move the primary actuator, thereby moving the primary electrode to a first position near the reference point. The primary actuator clamp is rotated to expose an auxiliary actuator clamp within the channel to enable movement of an auxiliary actuator configured to move the auxiliary electrode. The auxiliary actuator clamp is moved within the channel to move a second electrode to a second position near the reference point.

[0033] Other features, advantages, and scope of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein.It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0034] In general, the present invention discloses the technical solutions described in the following 1, 13, 21, 23, 31, 39, 43, 51 and 59. The following 2-12, 14-20, 22, 24-30, 32-38, 40-42, 44-50, 52-58 and 60 are preferred technical solutions of the present invention:

[0035] 1. A device for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath insertable into a body and positionable relative to a reference point, the device comprising:

[0036] a primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode to a first position;

[0037] an auxiliary actuator configured to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position; and

[0038] A covering device is configured to selectively prevent access to the auxiliary actuator until the primary actuator has been manipulated to extend the primary electrode to the first position.

[0039] 2. The apparatus of 1 above, wherein the cover device defines a first access opening configured to allow access to the auxiliary actuator after the primary actuator has been manipulated to move the primary electrode to the first position.

[0040] 3. The apparatus of 2 above, wherein the cover device is configured to expose an access opening after having been manipulated to move the primary electrode, the access opening being configured to allow access to the auxiliary actuator after the primary actuator is rotated.

[0041] 4. The apparatus according to 2 above, further comprising an external handle configured to accommodate the primary actuator and the auxiliary actuator, the covering device being integrated into the external handle.

[0042] 5. The device of 1 above, further comprising a primary actuator lock that must be released before the primary actuator can move to the first position.

[0043] 6. The device of 5 above, wherein the primary actuator lock comprises a spring-loaded lever configured to be depressed at a first end to release a latch, thereby allowing the primary actuator to move.

[0044] 7. The device according to item 1 above, wherein the primary actuator is further configured to move to partially retract the primary electrode to a partially retracted position after the auxiliary electrode has moved to the auxiliary position.

[0045] 8. The apparatus of 7 above, wherein the covering device is further configured to prevent the primary actuator from moving to partially retract the primary electrode to the partially retracted position until the auxiliary electrode has moved to the auxiliary position.

[0046] 9. The apparatus according to 8 above, wherein the covering device is integrated into the main actuator.

[0047] 10. The apparatus of 9 above, wherein the cover device is further configured to be rotatable relative to the primary actuator to allow the primary actuator to move, thereby allowing the primary electrode to partially retract to the partially retracted position.

[0048] 11. The apparatus of 9 above, wherein the cover device defines a second access opening configured to allow the primary actuator to move to allow the primary electrode to partially retract to the partially retracted position.

[0049] 12. The device according to item 1 above, further comprising:

[0050] a sheath housing distal portions of the primary electrode and the auxiliary electrode;

[0051] a sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point; and

[0052] A sheath lock is configured to fix a position of a distal end of the sheath relative to the reference point.

[0053] 13. A system for treating tissue at a reference point, the system comprising:

[0054] a controllable power source configured to selectively provide power between the first pole and the second pole;

[0055] an electrosurgical device configured to be inserted into the body to deliver a sheath proximate a reference point, the sheath housing a primary electrode electrically coupled to the first pole of the power source and an auxiliary electrode electrically coupled to the second pole of the power source; and

[0056] An electrode control device, comprising:

[0057] a primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode to a first position;

[0058] an auxiliary actuator configured to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position; and

[0059] A covering device is configured to selectively prevent access to the auxiliary actuator until the primary actuator has been manipulated to extend the primary electrode to the first position.

[0060] 14. The system according to item 13 above, further comprising:

[0061] a sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point;

[0062] A sheath lock is configured to selectively fix a position of the sheath relative to the reference point.

[0063] 15. The system of 13 above, wherein the cover device is configured to be rotatable relative to the primary actuator to allow access to the secondary actuator after the primary actuator has been manipulated to move the primary electrode to the first position.

[0064] 16. The system according to 13 above, wherein the covering device is integrated into the main actuator.

[0065] 17. The system according to item 13 above, wherein:

[0066] The covering device is integrated into the outer handle of the electrode control device; and

[0067] The electrode control device is configured to accommodate the primary actuator and the auxiliary actuator.

[0068] 18. The system of 13 above, wherein the electrode control device further comprises a primary actuator lock that must be released before the primary actuator can move to the first position.

[0069] 19. The device of 18 above, wherein the primary actuator lock comprises a spring-loaded lever configured to be depressed at a first end to release a latch, thereby allowing the primary actuator to move.

[0070] 20. The system of 13 above, wherein the primary actuator is further configured to move to partially retract the primary electrode to a partially retracted position after the auxiliary electrode has moved to the auxiliary position.

[0071] 21. A method of preparing an electrode for performing ablative electrical treatment on tissue at a reference point, the method comprising:

[0072] a sheath extending to house a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode, wherein the auxiliary electrode is housed within the primary electrode and initially coupled for movement with the primary electrode;

[0073] moving a primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode to a first position proximate a reference point;

[0074] moving the primary actuator to move the cover device to allow access to the auxiliary actuator configured to move the auxiliary electrode; and

[0075] The auxiliary actuator is moved to move the second electrode to a second position near the reference point.

[0076] 22. The method of 21 above, wherein moving the primary actuator to move the covering device comprises rotating the primary actuator relative to the secondary actuator.

[0077] 23. An apparatus for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath insertable into a body and positionable relative to a reference point, the apparatus comprising:

[0078] a shaft configured to allow the primary electrode and the auxiliary electrode to slidably pass therethrough;

[0079] a primary actuator coupled to the primary electrode and configured to slidably move on the shaft to move the primary electrode to a first position proximate a reference point;

[0080] an auxiliary actuator coupled to the auxiliary electrode and configured to slidably move on the shaft to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position; and

[0081] a covering device incorporated into the primary actuator and configured to at least partially prevent access to the auxiliary actuator, the primary actuator being configured to be slidably and rotatably movable relative to the shaft, and wherein the primary actuator is further configured to rotate to move the covering device after the primary actuator has been moved to slidably move the primary electrode to the first position, thereby allowing access to the auxiliary actuator.

[0082] 24. The device according to 23 above, wherein the primary actuator and the auxiliary actuator are configured to be coupled so that when the primary actuator moves to move the primary electrode to the first position, the auxiliary actuator moves in unison to move the auxiliary electrode together with the first electrode.

[0083] 25. The apparatus of 23 above, wherein the cover device defines an access opening and is configured to rotate such that the access opening allows access to the auxiliary actuator after the primary actuator has been manipulated to move the primary electrode to the first position and rotated.

[0084] 26. The apparatus of 25 above, wherein the primary actuator is further configured to allow the primary actuator to move to partially retract the primary electrode to a partially retracted position after the auxiliary electrode has moved to the second position.

[0085] 27. The device of 26 above, wherein the primary actuator is further configured to rotate after the auxiliary electrode has moved to the second position to allow the primary electrode to partially retract.

[0086] 28. The device according to 27 above, wherein the main actuator further comprises a clamping member to facilitate the slidable movement of the main actuator.

[0087] 29. The device according to 28 above further includes an external handle, which is configured to accommodate the main actuator and the auxiliary actuator, and wherein when the main actuator is rotated to allow access to the auxiliary actuator, the external handle at least partially covers the clamping member to at least partially interfere with the movement of the main actuator.

[0088] 30. The device according to 23 above, further comprising:

[0089] a sheath actuator configured to move a sheath relative to the reference point, wherein the sheath houses distal portions of the primary and auxiliary electrodes; and

[0090] A sheath lock is configured to fix a position of a distal end of the sheath relative to the reference point.

[0091] 31. A system for treating tissue at a reference point, the system comprising:

[0092] a controllable power source configured to selectively provide power between the first pole and the second pole;

[0093] an electrosurgical device configured to be inserted into the body to deliver a sheath proximate a reference point, the sheath housing a primary electrode electrically coupled to the first pole of the power source and an auxiliary electrode electrically coupled to the second pole of the power source; and

[0094] The electrode control device further comprises:

[0095] a shaft configured to allow the primary electrode and the auxiliary electrode to slidably pass therethrough;

[0096] a primary actuator coupled to the primary electrode and configured to slidably move on the shaft to move the primary electrode to a first position proximate a reference point;

[0097] an auxiliary actuator coupled to the auxiliary electrode and configured to slidably move on the shaft to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position; and

[0098] a covering device incorporated into the primary actuator and configured to at least partially prevent access to the auxiliary actuator, the primary actuator being configured to be slidably and rotatably movable relative to the shaft, and wherein the primary actuator is further configured to rotate to move the covering device after the primary actuator has been moved to slidably move the primary electrode to the first position, thereby allowing access to the auxiliary actuator.

[0099] 32. The system of claim 31 , wherein the primary actuator and the auxiliary actuator are configured to be coupled such that when the primary actuator moves to move the primary electrode to the first position, the auxiliary actuator moves in unison to move the auxiliary electrode along with the first electrode.

[0100] 33. An apparatus according to 31 above, wherein the cover device defines an access opening and is configured to rotate so that the access opening allows access to the auxiliary actuator after the primary actuator has been manipulated to move the primary electrode to the first position and rotated.

[0101] 34. The system of 33 above, wherein the primary actuator is further configured to allow the primary actuator to move to partially retract the primary electrode to a partially retracted position after the auxiliary electrode has moved to the second position.

[0102] 35. The system of 34 above, wherein the primary actuator is further configured to rotate after the auxiliary electrode has moved to the second position to allow the primary electrode to partially retract.

[0103] 36. The system of 35 above, wherein the primary actuator further comprises a clamp to facilitate slidable movement of the primary actuator.

[0104] 37. The system according to 36 above, wherein the electrode control device includes an external handle, the external handle being configured to accommodate the primary actuator and the auxiliary actuator, and

[0105] Wherein when the primary actuator is rotated to allow access to the auxiliary actuator, the external handle at least partially covers the clamp to at least partially interfere with movement of the primary actuator.

[0106] 38. The system according to 31 above, further comprising:

[0107] a sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point, wherein the sheath houses distal portions of the primary and auxiliary electrodes; and

[0108] A sheath lock is configured to fix a position of a distal end of the sheath relative to the reference point.

[0109] 39. A method of preparing an electrode for performing ablative electrical treatment of tissue at a reference point, the method comprising:

[0110] a sheath extending to house a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode, wherein the auxiliary electrode is housed within the primary electrode and initially coupled for movement with the primary electrode;

[0111] moving a primary actuator coupled to the primary electrode to move the primary electrode to a first position proximate a reference point;

[0112] rotating the primary actuator to expose an auxiliary actuator that was previously at least partially covered by the primary actuator and that is coupled to the auxiliary electrode to allow access to the auxiliary actuator configured to move the auxiliary electrode; and

[0113] The auxiliary actuator is moved to move the second electrode to a second position near the reference point.

[0114] 40. The method of claim 39, wherein moving the primary actuator to move the primary electrode comprises slidably moving the primary actuator, and moving the auxiliary actuator to move the auxiliary electrode comprises slidably moving the auxiliary actuator.

[0115] 41. The method of claim 39, wherein moving the primary actuator to move the primary electrode to the first position causes the secondary actuator to move the secondary electrode to move in unison with the first electrode.

[0116] 42. The method according to 39 above, further comprising:

[0117] After the auxiliary actuator moves to move the auxiliary electrode to the second position, the primary electrode rotates back to the initial position, at least partially covering the auxiliary electrode; and

[0118] The primary actuator coupled to the primary electrode is moved to at least partially retract the primary electrode away from the reference point.

[0119] 43. An apparatus for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath insertable into a body and positionable relative to a reference point, the apparatus comprising:

[0120] a primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode to a first position when the primary actuator clamp is slidably moved toward the first end;

[0121] an auxiliary actuator configured to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position when the auxiliary actuator holder is slidably moved toward the first end; and

[0122] An external handle is configured to selectively prevent access to the auxiliary actuator clamp of the auxiliary actuator until the primary actuator has been manipulated to extend the primary electrode to the first position and rotated relative to the primary actuator to expose the auxiliary actuator.

[0123] 44. The device according to 43 above, wherein:

[0124] The auxiliary actuator is nested within the primary actuator; and

[0125] The secondary actuator clamp extends through a first passage defined in the primary actuator.

[0126] 45. The device according to 44 above, wherein the external handle defines a second channel, the main actuator clamp and the auxiliary actuator clamp slide into the second channel, and the second channel is configured to selectively control the relative movement of the main actuator clamp and the auxiliary actuator clamp.

[0127] 46. ​​The device of 45 above, wherein the auxiliary actuator clamp is configured to extend outwardly from the auxiliary actuator and into the first channel after the outer handle is rotated relative to the primary actuator to expose the auxiliary actuator clamp.

[0128] 47. A device according to claim 46 above, wherein the external handle is further configured to be able to rotate relative to the main actuator after the auxiliary actuator moves to move the auxiliary electrode to the second position, thereby allowing the main actuator to move to allow the main electrode to partially retract to the partially retracted position.

[0129] 48. The apparatus of claim 47, wherein when the primary actuator moves to partially retract the primary electrode, the first channel prevents sliding movement of the auxiliary actuator holder to prevent movement of the auxiliary actuator.

[0130] 49. The device of claim 43, further comprising a primary actuator lock configured such that the primary actuator lock must be released before the primary actuator can move to the first position.

[0131] 50. The device according to 43 above, further comprising:

[0132] a sheath housing distal portions of the primary electrode and the auxiliary electrode;

[0133] a sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to a reference point; and

[0134] A sheath lock is configured to fix a position of a distal end of the sheath relative to the reference point.

[0135] 51. A system for treating tissue at a reference point, the system comprising:

[0136] a controllable power source configured to selectively provide power between the first pole and the second pole;

[0137] an electrosurgical device configured to be inserted into the body to deliver a sheath proximate a reference point, the sheath housing a primary electrode electrically coupled to the first pole of the power source and an auxiliary electrode electrically coupled to the second pole of the power source; and

[0138] The electrode control device further comprises:

[0139] a primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode to a first position when the primary actuator clamp is slidably moved toward the first end;

[0140] an auxiliary actuator configured to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position when the auxiliary actuator holder is slidably moved toward the first end; and

[0141] An external handle configured to selectively prevent access to the auxiliary actuator clamp of the auxiliary actuator until the primary actuator has been manipulated to extend the primary electrode to the first position and rotated relative to the primary actuator to expose the auxiliary actuator clamp.

[0142] 52. The system according to 51 above, wherein:

[0143] The auxiliary actuator is nested within the primary actuator; and

[0144] The secondary actuator clamp extends through a first passage defined in the primary actuator.

[0145] 53. A system according to claim 52 above, wherein the external handle defines a second channel, the primary actuator clamp and the auxiliary actuator clamp slide into the second channel, and the second channel is configured to selectively control the relative movement of the primary actuator clamp and the auxiliary actuator clamp.

[0146] 54. The system of 53 above, wherein a secondary actuator clamp is configured to extend outwardly from the auxiliary actuator and into the first channel after the outer handle is rotated relative to the primary actuator to expose the auxiliary actuator clamp.

[0147] 55. A system according to claim 54 above, wherein the external handle is further configured to be capable of rotating relative to the main actuator after the auxiliary actuator moves to move the auxiliary electrode to the second position, thereby allowing the main actuator to move to allow the main electrode to partially retract to the partially retracted position.

[0148] 56. The system of 55 above, wherein the first channel prevents sliding movement of the auxiliary clamp to prevent movement of the auxiliary actuator clamp when the primary actuator moves to partially retract the primary electrode.

[0149] 57. The system of 51 above, further comprising a primary actuator lock configured such that the primary actuator lock must be released before the primary actuator can move to the first position.

[0150] 58. The system according to 51 above, further comprising:

[0151] a sheath housing distal portions of the primary electrode and the auxiliary electrode;

[0152] a sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to a reference point; and

[0153] A sheath lock is configured to fix a position of a distal end of the sheath relative to the reference point.

[0154] 59. A method of preparing an electrode for performing ablative electrical treatment on tissue at a reference point, the method comprising:

[0155] a sheath extending to house a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode, wherein the auxiliary electrode is housed within the primary electrode and initially coupled for movement with the primary electrode;

[0156] sliding a primary actuator holder within a channel defined in the outer handle to move the primary actuator to move the primary electrode to a first position proximate a reference point;

[0157] rotating the primary actuator holder to expose the auxiliary actuator holder within the channel to enable movement of an auxiliary actuator configured to move the auxiliary electrode;

[0158] as well as

[0159] The auxiliary actuator clamp is moved within the channel to move the second electrode to a second position proximate the reference point.

[0160] 60. The method of claim 59, further comprising releasing a primary actuator lock to enable movement of the primary actuator. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0161] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way. The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, with emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the disclosed embodiments. In the drawings:

[0162] Figure 1 is a block diagram in partial schematic form of an illustrative system for treating tissue;

[0163] Figures 2 to 6 is a schematic diagram of the positioning of the distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode relative to a reference point;

[0164] Figure 7A and Figure 8A is a schematic diagram of a sheath actuator for positioning the sheath relative to a reference point;

[0165] Figure 7B and Figure 8B The distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode are located relative to the Figure 7A and Figure 8A Schematic diagram of the positioning of the sheath actuator corresponding to the reference point;

[0166] Figure 9 is a side view of an exemplary sheath actuator and sheath lock;

[0167] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 a cross-sectional view of a sheath actuator and a sheath lock;

[0168] Figure 11 、 Figure 12A 、 Figure 13A 、 Figure 14A 、 Figure 18A 、 Figure 19A 、 Figure 20A 、 Figure 32A 、 Figure 33A and Figure 34A is a side view of an embodiment of a user interface for positioning a plurality of components relative to a reference point;

[0169] Figure 12B 、 Figure 13B 、 Figure 14B 、 Figure 18B 、 Figure 19B 、 Figure 20B 、 Figure 32B 、 Figure 33B and Figure 34B The distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode are located relative to the Figure 12A 、 Figure 13A 、 Figure 14A 、 Figure 18A 、 Figure 19A 、 Figure 20A 、 Figure 32A 、 Figure 33A and Figure 34A A schematic diagram of the positioning of reference points corresponding to the positions of components of the user interface;

[0170] Figures 15 to 17 yes Figure 11 a cross-sectional view of a primary actuator and a primary release of a user interface;

[0171] Figure 21 and Figure 22 yes Figure 11 a cross-sectional view of an auxiliary actuator and an auxiliary release of a user interface;

[0172] Figure 23 yes Figure 11 a partial bottom view of a user interface of FIG. 1 showing an actuator interlock in a first position;

[0173] Figure 24 yes Figure 11 Another partial bottom view of the user interface of Figure 23 The position of the actuator interlock member corresponds to the first position of the actuator interlock member;

[0174] Figure 25 yes Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of a user interface showing the Figure 23 and Figure 24 The position of the actuator interlock member corresponds to the first position of the actuator interlock member;

[0175] Figure 26 yes Figure 11 a partial bottom view of a user interface of FIG. 1 showing the actuator interlock in a second position;

[0176] Figure 27 yes Figure 11 Another partial bottom view of the user interface of Figure 26 The position of the actuator interlock member corresponds to the second position of the actuator interlock member;

[0177] Figure 28 yes Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of a user interface showing the Figure 26 and Figure 27 The position of the actuator interlock member corresponds to the second position of the actuator interlock member;

[0178] Figure 29 yes Figure 11 a partial cross-sectional side view of a user interface of FIG. 1 showing the actuator interlock in a second position to enable engagement of the primary release;

[0179] Figure 30 yes Figure 11 a partial cutaway perspective view of a user interface of FIG. 1 showing the actuator interlock in a second position to enable engagement of the primary release;

[0180] Figure 31 yes Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of a user interface showing the Figure 30 a position of the actuator interlock corresponding to a second position to enable use of the actuator interlock of the primary release;

[0181] Figure 35 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a user interface for positioning a plurality of components relative to a reference point;

[0182] Figure 36 yes Figure 35 An exploded view of the user interface;

[0183] Figure 37A and Figure 38A It is used to position multiple components relative to a reference point. Figure 35 A perspective view of the user interface of

[0184] Figure 37B and Figure 38B The distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode are located relative to the Figure 37A and Figure 38A A schematic diagram of the positioning of reference points corresponding to the positions of the main release and the user interface housing;

[0185] Figure 39 yes Figure 35 an exploded view of a latch and interlock lever of a user interface;

[0186] Figures 40 to 42 yes Figure 35 A partial perspective view of the user interface of Figure 35 the position of an interlock lever of a user interface;

[0187] Figure 43A 、 Figure 44A 、 Figure 45A 、 Figure 46A and Figure 47A yes Figure 35 A partial top view of a user interface of FIG.

[0188] Figure 43B 、 Figure 44B 、 Figure 45B 、 Figure 46B and Figure 47B are respectively Figure 43A 、 Figure 44A 、 Figure 45A 、 Figure 46A and Figure 47A The local top view corresponds to Figure 35 a partial side view of a user interface of FIG.

[0189] Figure 43C 、 Figure 44C 、 Figure 45C 、 Figure 46C and Figure 47C The distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode are located relative to the Figures 43A to 43B 、 Figures 44A to 44B 、 Figures 45A to 45B 、 Figures 46A to 46B as well as Figures 47A to 47B A schematic diagram showing the positioning of reference points corresponding to the positions of the user interfaces shown;

[0190] Figure 48 is a side view of another embodiment of a user interface for positioning a plurality of components relative to a reference point;

[0191] Figure 49 yes Figure 48 An exploded view of the user interface;

[0192] Figure 50A and Figure 51A is being manipulated to position the sheath Figure 48 a side view of a user interface of FIG.

[0193] Figure 50B and Figure 51B The distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode are located relative to the Figure 50A and Figure 51A Schematic diagram of the positioning of the sheath actuator corresponding to the reference point;

[0194] Figure 52A 、 Figure 53A 、 Figure 54A 、 Figure 55A 、 Figure 56A and Figure 57A is being used to position electrodes within the body Figure 48 a side view of a user interface of FIG.

[0195] Figure 52B 、 Figure 53B 、 Figure 54B 、 Figure 55B 、 Figure 56B and Figure 57B are respectively Figure 52A 、 Figure 53A 、 Figure 54A 、 Figure 55A 、 Figure 56A and Figure 57A The side view corresponds to Figure 48 a cross-sectional view of a user interface of FIG.

[0196] Figure 52C 、 Figure 53C 、 Figure 54C 、 Figure 55C 、 Figure 56C and Figure 57C The distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode are located relative to the Figures 52A to 52B 、 Figures 53A to 53B 、 Figures 54A to 54B 、 Figures 55A to 55B 、 Figures 56A to 56B as well as Figures 57A to 57B A schematic diagram showing the positioning of reference points corresponding to the positions of the user interfaces shown;

[0197] Figure 58 is a side view of another embodiment of a user interface for positioning a plurality of components relative to a reference point;

[0198] Figure 59 yes Figure 58 A partial cross-sectional view of a user interface;

[0199] Figure 60A and Figure 61A is being manipulated to position the sheath Figure 58 a side view of a user interface of FIG.

[0200] Figure 60B and Figure 61B The distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode are located relative to the Figure 60A and Figure 61A Schematic diagram of the positioning of the sheath actuator corresponding to the reference point;

[0201] Figure 62 yes Figure 58 a side view of a locking lever of a user interface;

[0202] Figure 63A yes Figure 58 a side view of a main housing of a user interface;

[0203] Figure 63B yes Figure 58 a bottom view of a main housing of a user interface;

[0204] Figure 63C and Figure 63D yes Figure 58a cross-sectional view of a main housing of a user interface;

[0205] Figure 64A yes Figure 58 a side view of an auxiliary housing of a user interface;

[0206] Figure 64B and Figure 64C yes Figure 58 a cross-sectional view of an auxiliary housing of a user interface;

[0207] Figure 65A 、 Figure 66A 、 Figure 67A 、 Figure 68A 、 Figure 69A and Figure 70A is being used to position electrodes within the body Figure 58 a partial cross-sectional side view of a user interface of FIG.

[0208] Figures 65B to 65C 、 Figures 66B to 66C 、 Figures 67B to 67C 、 Figures 68B to 68C 、 Figures 69B to 69C as well as Figures 70B to 70C are respectively Figure 65A 、 Figure 66A 、 Figure 67A 、 Figure 68A 、 Figure 69A and Figure 70A The local cross-sectional side view corresponds to Figure 58 a cross-sectional view of a user interface of FIG.

[0209] Figure 65D 、 Figure 66D 、 Figure 67D 、 Figure 68D 、 Figure 69D and Figure 70D The distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode are located relative to the Figures 65A to 65C 、 Figures 66A to 66C 、 Figures 67A to 67C 、 Figures 68A to 68C 、 Figures 69A to 69C as well as Figures 70A to 70C A schematic diagram showing the positioning of reference points corresponding to the positions of the user interfaces shown;

[0210] Figure 71A 、 Figure 72A 、 Figure 73A 、 Figure 74A 、 Figure 75A and Figure 76A is being manipulated to position multiple components relative to a reference point Figure 58 a side view of a user interface of FIG.

[0211] Figure 71B 、 Figure 72B 、 Figure 73B 、 Figure 74B 、 Figure 75B and Figure 76B The distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode are located relative to the Figure 71A 、 Figure 72A 、 Figure 73A 、 Figure 74A 、 Figure 75A and Figure 76A A schematic diagram showing the positioning of reference points corresponding to the positions of the user interfaces shown;

[0212] Figures 77 to 81 is a flow chart of an illustrative method of locating a component using a user interface;

[0213] Figure 82 is a side view of another embodiment of a user interface for positioning a plurality of components relative to a reference point;

[0214] Figure 83 yes Figure 82 An exploded view of the user interface;

[0215] Figure 84A yes Figure 82 a side view of an outer housing of a user interface;

[0216] Figure 84B and Figure 84C yes Figure 82 a cross-sectional view of an outer housing of a user interface;

[0217] Figure 85A yes Figure 82 a side view of an axis of the user interface;

[0218] Figure 85B yes Figure 82 a cross-sectional view of a base portion of a shaft of a user interface;

[0219] Figure 86A and Figure 86B yes Figure 82 a side view of a primary actuator of a user interface;

[0220] Figure 86C yes Figure 82 a cross-sectional view of a primary actuator of a user interface;

[0221] Figure 87A and Figure 87B yes Figure 82 a side view of an auxiliary actuator of a user interface;

[0222] Figure 87C and Figure 87D yes Figure 82 a cross-sectional view of an auxiliary actuator of a user interface;

[0223] Figure 88A 、 Figure 89A 、 Figure 90A 、 Figure 91A 、 Figure 92A and Figure 93A is being manipulated to position the electrodes within the body Figure 82 a side view of a user interface of FIG.

[0224] Figure 88B 、 Figure 89B 、 Figure 90B 、 Figure 91B 、 Figure 92B and Figure 93B The distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode are located relative to the Figure 88A 、 Figure 89A 、 Figure 90A 、 Figure 91A 、 Figure 92A and Figure 93A A schematic diagram of positioning of reference points corresponding to positions of user interfaces;

[0225] Figure 94 is a side view of another embodiment of a user interface for positioning a plurality of components relative to a reference point;

[0226] Figure 95 yes Figure 94 An exploded view of the user interface;

[0227] Figure 96A and Figure 97A is being manipulated to position the sheath Figure 94 a side view of a user interface of FIG.

[0228] Figure 96B and Figure 97B The distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode are located relative to the Figure 96A and Figure 97A Schematic diagram of the positioning of the sheath actuator corresponding to the reference point;

[0229] Figure 98A 、 Figure 99A 、 Figure 100A and Figure 101A is being manipulated to position the electrodes within the body Figure 94 a side view of a user interface of FIG.

[0230] Figure 98B 、 Figure 99B 、 Figure 100B and Figure 101B yes Figure 94 a cross-sectional view of a user interface being manipulated to position electrodes within the body, respectively Figure 98A 、 Figure 99A 、 Figure 100Aand Figure 101A The position of the user interface corresponds to the

[0231] Figure 98C 、 Figure 99C 、 Figure 100C and Figure 101C The distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode are located relative to the Figure 98A 、 Figure 99A 、 Figure 100A and Figure 101A A schematic diagram of positioning of reference points corresponding to positions of user interfaces;

[0232] Figure 102 is a side view of another embodiment of a user interface for positioning a plurality of components relative to a reference point;

[0233] Figure 103 yes Figure 102 An exploded view of the user interface;

[0234] Figure 104A 、 Figure 105A 、 Figure 106A 、 Figure 107A and Figure 108A is being manipulated to position the electrodes within the body Figure 102 a side view of a user interface of FIG.

[0235] Figure 104B 、 Figure 105B 、 Figure 106B 、 Figure 107B and Figure 108B yes Figure 102 A cross-sectional view of a user interface being manipulated to position electrodes within the body, respectively Figure 104A 、 Figure 105A 、 Figure 106A 、 Figure 107A and Figure 108A The position of the user interface corresponds to;

[0236] Figure 104C 、 Figure 105C 、 Figure 106C 、 Figure 107C and Figure 108C The distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode are located relative to the Figure 104A 、 Figure 105A 、 Figure 106A 、 Figure 107A and Figure 108A A schematic diagram of positioning of reference points corresponding to positions of user interfaces;

[0237] Figure 109 is a side view of another embodiment of a user interface for positioning a plurality of components relative to a reference point;

[0238] Figure 110 yes Figure 109 an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a primary actuator grip of a user interface;

[0239] Figure 111 yes Figure 109 An exploded view of the user interface;

[0240] Figure 112A 、 Figure 113A and Figure 114A is being manipulated to position the sheath Figure 109 a side view of a user interface of FIG.

[0241] Figure 112B 、 Figure 113B and Figure 114B The distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode are located relative to the Figure 112A 、 Figure 113A and Figure 114A Schematic diagram of the positioning of the sheath actuator corresponding to the reference point;

[0242] Figure 115 is a side view of another embodiment of a user interface for positioning a plurality of components relative to a reference point;

[0243] Figure 116 yes Figure 115 An exploded view of the user interface;

[0244] Figure 117A and Figure 118A is being manipulated to position the sheath Figure 94 a side view of a user interface of FIG.

[0245] Figure 117B and Figure 118B The distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode are located relative to the Figure 117A and Figure 118A Schematic diagram of the positioning of the sheath actuator corresponding to the reference point;

[0246] Figure 119A 、 Figure 120A 、 Figure 121A 、 Figure 122A and Figure 123A is being manipulated to position the electrodes within the body Figure 115 a side view of a user interface of FIG.

[0247] Figure 119B 、 Figure 120B 、 Figure 121B 、 Figure 122B and Figure 123B yes Figure 115 a cross-sectional view of a user interface of FIG. 1 , wherein the user interface is being manipulated to position electrodes within the body, and Figure 119A 、 Figure 120A 、 Figure 121A 、 Figure 122A and Figure 123A The position of the user interface corresponds to;

[0248] Figure 119C 、 Figure 120C 、 Figure 121C 、 Figure 122C and Figure 123C The distal ends of the sheath, primary electrode, and auxiliary electrode are located relative to the Figure 119A 、 Figure 120A 、 Figure 121A 、 Figure 122A and Figure 123A A schematic diagram of the positioning of the reference point corresponding to the position of the user interface; and

[0249] Figures 124 to 126 is a flow chart of an illustrative method of locating a component using a user interface. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0250] The following description is merely illustrative in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, its application, or uses. It should be noted that the first digit of a three-digit reference numeral and the first two digits of a four-digit reference numeral correspond to the first digit of a single-digit figure numeral and the first two digits of a figure numeral, respectively, where the element first appears.

[0251] The following description describes, by way of illustration only and not limitation, various embodiments of a user interface for positioning electrodes for an electrosurgical device, as well as systems including such user interfaces and methods of using such user interfaces. As described in detail below, electrosurgical techniques position a first electrode and a second electrode near a reference point at a location where electrical therapy, such as ablation therapy, is to be performed. For specific examples, the user interface and methods of using the same can be used to ablate and / or coagulate tissue, remove lesions, and perform other medical procedures within the lung.

[0252] It should be understood that various embodiments of the user interface described herein can help simplify the process of positioning and holding the electrodes in place. As will be described below, various embodiments of the user interface achieve selective positioning and locking of the electrodes in place by depressing a release and sliding a lever, rotating and sliding a housing, or a combination of sliding a lever and rotating a housing.

[0253] refer to Figure 1 , provides the anatomical region for treatment of the patient (not in Figure 11 . System 100 is a system for treating tissue at a reference point in a patient's body (shown in FIG). System 100 can be a bipolar or monopolar radiofrequency (RF) system for treating tissue in a patient. Specifically, system 100 can be used to coagulate and / or ablate soft tissue during percutaneous and endoscopic procedures, including bronchoscopic and surgical procedures, such as, for example, partial and / or complete ablation of cancerous and / or non-cancerous organ lesions. As will be further described, the tissue is treated by positioning one or more electrodes near the tissue to be treated and passing an electrical current through the tissue at the reference point.

[0254] In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a user interface 101, an electrosurgical radio frequency (RF) generator operating as a switchable current source 114, an infusion pump 116, and an electrosurgical instrument or device, such as, but not limited to, a bronchoscope 118. It should be understood that the electrosurgical instrument or device may also include an endoscope or any other electrosurgical instrument required for a particular application. The bronchoscope 118 may be configured to receive the user interface 101 at a port 148 so that the user interface 101 can manipulate the electrode at a reference point via the bronchoscope 118.

[0255] The user interface 101 is in electrical communication with the switchable current source 114 via an electrical conductor 130. In some embodiments, when the system is operating in bipolar mode, the electrical conductor 130 is connected to a socket 131. The electrical conductor 130 can be coupled to the socket 131 using an electrical connector 134 configured to electrically engage the socket 131. In some other embodiments, when the electrical conductor 130 is connected to the socket 131 as needed via an adapter (not shown in FIG. Figure 1 The system 100 can operate in a monopolar mode when the user interface 101 is connected to the auxiliary receptacle 133. The user interface 101 is also connected to the infusion pump 116 via tubing 132, which facilitates the flow of liquid (e.g., saline solution) from the infusion pump 116 to the user interface 101.

[0256] The switchable current source 114 can be operated using a foot-operated unit 120 electrically connected to the switchable current source 114. The foot-operated unit 120 includes a pedal 122 that instructs the switchable current source 114 to apply current to electrodes (described below) to cut and / or ablate tissue, and a pedal 124 that instructs the generator 114 to apply a smaller current to the electrodes to coagulate tissue.

[0257] In various embodiments, the bronchoscope 118 includes an insertion tube 119 that allows the sheath 103 to be inserted into the body (not shown). The distal end 105 of the sheath 103 is delivered to a location near the tissue to be treated at a reference point. The sheath 103 houses the electrodes (not shown) and delivers them to the desired treatment location. The user interface 101 received by the bronchoscope 118 at the port 148 can control the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 and the distal ends of the electrodes (not shown). Figure 1).

[0258] refer to Figures 2 to 6 , using various embodiments of the user interface, the distal end of the component is positioned relative to a reference point 201. For example, the reference point 201 may be at a point within the target tissue 202, such as a lesion or any portion of tissue to be treated within the body. The exemplary embodiments of the user interface described below are provided by way of illustration only and not limitation, and all of them are capable of positioning the distal end of the component relative to a reference point 201. Figures 2 to 6 The components are further described with reference to each of the embodiments described. Figures 2 to 6 Description.

[0259] In certain embodiments, the auxiliary electrode 211 is slidably received within the primary electrode 207, and the primary electrode 207 is slidably received within the sheath 203. In certain embodiments, before the user interface is manipulated to individually move the primary electrode 207 and / or the auxiliary electrode 211, the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211 move in unison with the sheath 203, meaning that the electrodes 207 and 211 move at the same time and the same distance as the sheath 203. As will be described below, in some cases, the auxiliary electrode 211 may also move in unison with the primary electrode 209, but both electrodes move independently of the sheath 203. Components housed within other components are described in detail below. Figures 2 to 6 Indicated by dotted line.

[0260] refer to Figure 2 , shows a sheath 203, a primary electrode 207, and an auxiliary electrode 211 positioned at an initial position relative to a reference point 201 at or near a target tissue 202. More specifically, Figure 2 Components are shown that may be positioned as follows: a sheath 203 is inserted through an insertion tube into a bronchoscope (such as a Figure 1 insertion tube 119 and bronchoscope 118).

[0261] The distal end 205 of the sheath 203 is positioned adjacent to the target tissue 202. The primary electrode 207 is slidably received within the sheath 203, with the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 located at or near the distal end 205 of the sheath. Specifically, for example, Figure 2 The distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is shown positioned just shorter than the distal end 205 of the sheath 203. In turn, the auxiliary electrode 211 is slidably received within the primary electrode 207, with the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 positioned just within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207.

[0262] refer to Figure 3 , shows the sheath 203, primary electrode 207, and auxiliary electrode 211 positioned as the sheath 203 has been moved closer to the reference point 201. Figure 2 In comparison, Figure 3 , the distal end 205 of the sheath 203 has moved closer to the reference point 201 at the edge of the target tissue 202. Figure 2 As shown, because the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211 have not been moved independently by manipulating a user interface (not shown), the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211 move with the movement of the sheath 203. Thus, in a deployed position closer to the reference point 201, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 remains positioned just shorter than the distal end 205 of the sheath 203. Similarly, the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned just within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. As will be further described with reference to embodiments of a sheath lock, which may be part of or used in conjunction with a user interface, the sheath 203 may be locked in place once the distal end 205 of the sheath 203 has been moved to a desired position.

[0263] refer to Figure 4 , shows the sheath 203, primary electrode 207, and auxiliary electrode 211 positioned when the primary electrode 207 has extended from the sheath 203 toward the reference point 201 into the target tissue 202. In certain embodiments, the auxiliary electrode 211 moves in unison with the primary electrode 207, unless a user interface (not shown) is manipulated to decouple the movement of the auxiliary electrode 211 from the movement of the primary electrode 207, wherein the auxiliary electrode 211 moves in the same direction and the same distance as the primary electrode 207. Thus, as Figure 4 As shown, the primary electrode 207 extends beyond the distal end 105 of the sheath 103, and the auxiliary electrode 211 moves in unison with the primary electrode 207. Figure 4 As shown, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 extends toward the reference point 201 and beyond the distal end 205 of the sheath 203. The distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned just within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. In certain embodiments, the primary electrode 207 is in the form of a needle, the distal end 209 of which is configured to penetrate tissue (such as the target tissue 202), enabling the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 to reach a desired location and enabling the auxiliary electrode 211 to be positioned at a desired point.

[0264] As will be further described below, once the distal end 205 of the sheath 203 is at a desired position and locked in place, embodiments of the user interface allow the primary electrode 207 to be unlocked so that the primary electrode 207 can move independently of the sheath 103. Still as will be described below, embodiments of the user interface can keep the movement of the auxiliary electrode 211 locked to the movement of the primary electrode 207 so that the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 moves in unison with the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. Still as will be described below, embodiments of the user interface allow one or both of the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211 to be fixed in place - i.e., held in place - so that one or both of the electrode 207 and the electrode 211 are fixed at the current position. Thus, for example, the position of the primary electrode 207 can be fixed while the auxiliary electrode 211 can be moved independently of the primary electrode 207, or the position of the auxiliary electrode 211 can be fixed while the primary electrode 207 can be moved independently of the auxiliary electrode 211. Additionally, for example, when using a user interface such as Figure 1 The two electrodes 207 and 211 may be fixed in place when the electrosurgical device shown in system 100 applies current to perform treatment.

[0265] refer to Figure 5 , shows the sheath 203, primary electrode 207, and auxiliary electrode 211 positioned when the auxiliary electrode 211 has been extended from the primary electrode 207. The distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 is deployed at a location on the opposite side of the reference point 201 and on the opposite side of the target tissue 202 from the primary electrode 207. In certain embodiments, the auxiliary electrode 211 is configured to receive the coiled wire within the primary electrode 207 in a straightened form. Once the user interface is manipulated to extend the auxiliary electrode 211 independently of the primary electrode 207, the auxiliary electrode 211 is coiled into a coil. As a result, the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 spirals into tissue, such as the target tissue 202. The spiraling of the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 can help ensure the positioning of the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 during treatment. Figure 5 Also shown is an insulator 215 along the length of the auxiliary electrode 211, but shorter than the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211. The insulator 215 electrically insulates the auxiliary electrode 211 from the primary electrode 207 so that when current is applied to the proximal ends (not shown) of the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211, the current can flow only between the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the uninsulated distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211.

[0266] refer to Figure 6, shows the sheath 303, primary electrode 207, and auxiliary electrode 511 positioned as the primary electrode 207 is partially retracted away from the reference point 201 and partially retracted from the target tissue 202 into the sheath 503. As previously described, the needle shape of the primary electrode 207 helps to position the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 at a desired location. However, once the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 has been set at that location, it may be desirable to move the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 away from the reference point 201 to form a desired gap between the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 and the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 across which current can be applied to treat the target tissue 202 near the reference point 201. As will be further described below, once the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 has been secured at the desired location, an embodiment of the user interface (not shown) Figure 6 ) allows the primary electrode 207 to be unlocked and moved independently of the auxiliary electrode 211, enabling Figure 6 Partially retracted shown. Embodiments of the user interface also enable the primary electrode 207 to be locked in place once partially retracted.

[0267] refer to Figure 7A and Figure 7B The apparatus 700 includes an exemplary user interface 701 that receives at a port 748 of an electrosurgical device 718, such as a bronchoscope or another minimally invasive device (not shown) for performing diagnostic or therapeutic tasks by extending a sheath or catheter into the body. Figure 7A and Figure 7B ). Figure 7A In the device 700 of FIG. 1 , the user interface 701 includes a sheath actuator 704 and a sheath lock 706 configured to move the sheath 103 to a desired position to position the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 relative to the reference point 201. In some embodiments, the sheath actuator 704 can be a slidable mechanism that incorporates a slidable sleeve 712 that is received within a collar 714. The slidable sleeve 712 can be locked in position at the collar 714 by the sheath lock 706. The sheath lock 706 can be a spring-loaded locking pin, a thumbscrew, or another mechanism configured to mechanically engage the slidable sleeve 712 to secure the slidable sleeve 712—and, in turn, the sheath 703—in place at the desired position.

[0268] In some embodiments, the sheath actuator 704 can be part of the user interface 701. For example, in Figure 7AIn the user interface 701 of FIG. 7 , a slidable sleeve 712 is fixably engaged with the interface housing 710 at a distal end 716 of the interface housing 710. A collar 714 can engage a port 748 on an electrosurgical device 718, wherein movement of the slidable sleeve 712 within the collar 714 controls movement of the sheath 103. In some other embodiments, the sheath actuator 704 can be part of the electrosurgical device 718, for example. The collar 714 can be fixably engaged to the port 748. The slidable sleeve 712 can be associated with the port 748 to engage the distal end 716 of the interface housing 710. In another embodiment, the slidable sleeve 712 can be fixably engaged to the distal end 716 of the interface housing 710 and can be configured to receivably engage the collar 714, which can be fixably attached to the port 748. Any of these embodiments of the sheath actuator 704 can facilitate movement of the sheath 103, as described below.

[0269] In various embodiments, the user interface 701 is mechanically coupled to a primary electrode 207 that is slidably received within the sheath 103, wherein a distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is positioned just shorter than the distal end 105 of the sheath 103. The user interface 701 is also mechanically coupled to an auxiliary electrode 211 that is slidably received within the primary electrode 207, wherein a distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 is positioned just within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. Embodiments of the user interface 701 can be configured to secure the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211 relative to the sheath 103 such that when the sheath 103 moves, both the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211 move in unison with the sheath, as described with reference to FIG. Figure 3 As stated.

[0270] refer to Figure 8A and Figure 8B , manipulation of the sheath actuator 704 shows how to unlock the sheath 103 and move it to the position as previously referenced Figure 3 Examples of the locations described. Figure 8A and 8BIn the illustrated configuration, the sheath actuator 704 has been manipulated to enable the sheath 103 to move a distance 819 closer to the reference point 201 and the target tissue 202. Specifically, once the sheath lock 706 of the sheath actuator 704 is manipulated to enable the slidable sleeve 712 to move within the collar 714, the interface housing 710 moves a distance 819 to move the sheath 103 the same distance 819 toward the reference point 702. Once the sheath 103 has reached the desired position, the slidable sleeve 712 can be locked in place at the collar 714 by the sheath lock 706. As will be further described below, as the sheath 103 is moved using the sheath actuator 704, embodiments of the user interface 701 maintain the position of the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211 relative to the sheath 103. Consequently, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 also move a distance 219 toward the reference point 201.

[0271] refer to Figure 9 , an enlarged exterior view shows in greater detail an exemplary sheath actuator 704 and sheath lock 706. The sheath actuator 704 includes a slidable sleeve 712 that is fixedly attached to a housing configured to engage an electrosurgical device (not shown). Figure 9 The port (not shown) of a bronchoscope, such as a bronchoscope Figure 9 ) shown in the connector 920. Figure 9 The sheath lock 706 in the embodiment of the present invention is a thumb screw that can be loosened to allow the collar 714, which can be fixedly attached to the interface housing 710, to move, thereby moving the sheath (not shown). Figure 9 7 and 8. After the interface housing 710 has been manipulated to slide the collar 714 relative to the slidable sleeve 712, thereby moving the sheath to the desired position, the sheath lock 706 is reengaged, such as by turning a thumbscrew, to secure the position of the sheath.

[0272] refer to Figure 10 , a cross-sectional view of an exemplary sheath actuator 704 shows Figure 9 920. As previously described, the sheath actuator 704 includes a slidable sleeve 712 that is fixedly attached to the coupler 920. In some embodiments, the sheath lock 706 is a thumbscrew that can be loosened to allow a collar 714 that is fixedly attached to the interface housing 710 to move, thereby moving the sheath 103 and causing the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211 received within the sheath 103 to move in unison. After manipulating the interface housing 710 to slide the collar 714 relative to the slidable sleeve 712, thereby moving the sheath 103 to a desired position, the sheath lock 706 is rotated to fix the position of the collar 714 relative to the slidable sleeve 712, thereby fixing the position of the sheath 103.

[0273] refer to Figure 11 In some embodiments, the exemplary user interface 1101 is used to determine the position of the image relative to a reference point (not in the image). Figure 11 1003, the primary electrode, and the auxiliary electrode. The user interface 1101 includes components that move parallel to or transverse to an axis 1121 or rotate along a curve 1123 about the axis 1121, as further described below. The user interface 1101 includes a coupler 1120 and a sheath actuator 1104 having a slidable sleeve 1112 that moves within a collar 1114 that is fixedly attached to the interface housing 1110 when released by a sheath lock 1106 to move the sheath 103, as previously described with reference to FIG. Figure 9 and Figure 10 The user interface 1101 also receives a signal that provides electrodes and a switchable current source (not shown). Figure 11 ) between the electrical connections 1122, as previously referenced Figure 1 The user interface 1101 and other embodiments of the user interface described throughout this specification also receive a source of saline fluid (not shown) that can pass through the sheath to facilitate the application of electrosurgery. Although not described in reference Figure 35 This is explicitly shown in subsequent depictions of other exemplary embodiments of the user interface described in Figure 75, but it should be understood that similar leads can be used to provide electrical connections between the electrodes and the switchable current source.

[0274] Shown in Figure 11 The exemplary user interface 1101 in FIG. 1 includes several user controls, the operation and effects of which are described in further detail in the following figures. A primary release 1130 extends from the underside 1124 of the housing 1110 and is configured to unlock movement of the primary electrode (not shown) by manipulating a primary actuator 1132 extending from the upper side 1126 of the housing 1110. The primary actuator 1132 is in contact with the primary electrode (not shown). Figure 11 ) are mechanically coupled so that when the primary actuator 1132 moves relative to the housing 1110, the primary electrodes move relative to a reference point (also not shown in FIG. Figure 11 The depth gauge 1190 on the housing 1110 includes an indicator 1192 for indicating the insertion depth of the primary electrode beyond the end of the sheath (not shown).

[0275] The electrode moves relative to the reference point (also not in Figure 11 ). A depth gauge 1190 on the housing 1110 includes an indicator 1192 for indicating the insertion depth of the primary electrode beyond the end of the sheath (not shown).

[0276] The auxiliary release 1150 is integral with an auxiliary actuator 1152 disposed along the upper side 1126 of the housing and is configured to respectively unlock and control the movement of the auxiliary electrode. The auxiliary actuator 1152 is fixably coupled to an auxiliary clamp 1153 extending from the lower side 1124 of the housing 1110. The auxiliary actuator 1152 is mechanically coupled to the auxiliary electrode (not shown) such that when the auxiliary actuator 1152 moves relative to the housing 1110, the auxiliary electrode moves relative to a reference point (not shown). Figure 11 shown in ) moves.

[0277] An actuator interlock 1140 positioned along the underside 1124 of the housing 1110 can limit movement of the auxiliary electrode relative to the primary electrode, can prevent use of the primary release 1130, and can decouple an auxiliary electrode (not shown) from the primary electrode, as described further below. As shown below, when the primary actuator 1132 and the auxiliary actuator 1152 move in unison, the actuator interlock 1140 moves in unison with the primary actuator 1132 and the auxiliary actuator 1152. As will be described further below, the primary release 1130, the actuator interlock 1140, and the auxiliary release 1150 enable the electrodes to move in unison or independently to facilitate placement of the distal end of the electrode within the body.

[0278] refer to Figure 12A and Figure 12B In some embodiments, once the sheath 103 is deployed near the reference point 201, the user interface 1101 has an initial deployed configuration. 7A to 10 As previously described, the sheath actuator 1104 and the sheath lock 1106 have been previously engaged to position the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 at a desired location near the reference point 201, as shown in the inset. As previously described, the primary electrode 207 is received within the sheath 103, with the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 initially positioned just shorter than the distal end 105 of the sheath 103. The auxiliary electrode 211 is received within the primary electrode 207, with the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 positioned just shorter than the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207.

[0279] refer to Figure 13A and Figure 13B In some embodiments of the user interface 1101, the primary release 1130 is engaged to allow movement of the primary electrode 207. Specifically, releasing the primary release 1130 is accomplished by pressing the primary release 1130 in the direction 1331 toward the housing 1110 of the user interface. Activating the primary release 1130 does not cause the sheath 103 or the electrodes 207 or 211 to move relative to the primary electrode 207. Figure 12B2. Movement of the reference point 201 shown in the inset of FIG. 2 only enables movement of the primary electrode 207, which may or may not also enable movement of the auxiliary electrode 211, as described further below.

[0280] refer to Figure 14A and Figure 14B , the user interface 1101 is shown after the primary actuator 1132 has moved a distance 1433. After moving the primary actuator 1132, the primary release 1130 is disengaged to allow the primary release to move away from the housing 1110 in a direction 1431, thereby restoring its position as in reference Figure 12A The original position shown. The movement of the main actuator 1132 causes four actions. First, as Figure 14B , movement of the primary actuator 1132 causes the primary electrode 207 to extend beyond the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 and into the target tissue 202, thereby positioning the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 proximate the reference point 201. Second, the auxiliary electrode 211 moves in unison with the primary electrode 207, with the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 continuing to be positioned just shorter than the distal end 209 of the auxiliary electrode 207. Third, the coordinated movement of the primary and auxiliary electrodes 207, 211, reflects their movement through the same distance 1433 as the distance 1433 moved by the actuator interlock 1140, the auxiliary release 1150, the auxiliary actuator 1152, and the auxiliary clamp 1153. The primary and auxiliary actuators 1132, 1152 are mechanically coupled to enable the primary and auxiliary electrodes 207, 211, to move in unison, as further described below. Fourth, the indicator 1192 of the depth gauge 1190 is also mechanically coupled to the primary actuator 1132. Thus, the distance 1433 that the primary actuator 1132 and the primary electrode 207 move is shown on the depth gauge 1190 by the indicator 1192.

[0281] refer to Figure 15 , the primary actuator 1132 and the primary release 1130 may be used for reference Figures 11 to 14B In the embodiment of the user interface described, the primary releaser 1130 is in the Figure 12A and Figure 14A The primary actuator 1132 is mechanically coupled to the primary electrode slider 1533, which is mechanically coupled to the primary electrode 207 to move the primary electrode 207, as previously described with reference to FIG. Figures 2 to 6 12 to 14. When the primary release 1130 is in the locked position, a biasing member such as a spring 1535 pushes the locking member 1534 extending through the interior of the primary actuator 1132 to force the locking pin 1536 into the locking position. Figure 11 to Figure 1 4 user interface housing (not in Figure 151537 in the locking rack 1538 within the primary release 1130. The locking pin 1536 forcibly engages the starting notch 1537 to prevent movement of the primary actuator 1132, and thus also prevents movement of the primary electrode slider 1533 and the primary electrode 207. Figure 15 In the locked position shown, primary electrode slider 1530 and primary electrode 207 are locked in their current positions.

[0282] refer to Figure 16 , illustrates the operation of primary actuator 1132 and primary release 1130, wherein engaging primary release 1130 enables movement of primary actuator 1132. When force is applied to primary release 1130 to move primary actuator 1132 in direction 1631, primary release 1130 causes locking member 1534 to move in direction 1631, compressing spring 1535 and moving locking pin 1536 out of starting notch 1537, enabling movement of primary actuator 1132. In other words, pressing primary release 1130 releases locking pin 1536 from starting notch 1537 of locking rack 1538, allowing primary actuator 1132 to move primary electrode slider 1533.

[0283] refer to Figure 17 , the operation of the primary actuator 1132 moving the primary electrode slider 1533 and the primary electrode 207 is shown while the primary release 1130 remains engaged to enable the primary actuator 1132 to move. Figure 16 As shown, primary actuator 1132 is able to release locking pin 1536 from starting notch 1537 causing locking member 1534 to compress spring 1535 to allow primary actuator 1132 and, therefore, primary electrode slider 1533 and primary electrode 207 to move relative to housing 1110 in direction 1731. Force applied to primary release 1130 continues causing locking member 1534 to compress spring 1535 and, therefore, allow locking pin 1536 to move relative to locking rack 1538, wherein if Figure 17 The position shown will release the locking pin 1536, which will allow the locking pin to engage the selected notch 1739 in the locking rack 1538. It should be noted that the primary release 1130 moves in unison with the primary actuator 1132 as the primary actuator 1132 moves relative to the housing 1110. Figure 17 In the embodiment of , only the starting notch 1537, the locking rack 1538 and the housing 1110 remain in the same position.

[0284] When the primary release 1130 is released, the pressure previously applied by the locking member 1534 to the spring 1535 is released. As a result, the spring 1535 presses against the locking member 1534 and, in turn, causes the locking pin 1536 to engage the selected notch 1739 in the locking rack 1538. Then, similar to Figure 15 In the configuration shown, primary electrode slider 1530 and primary electrode 207 are locked in their new positions relative to housing 1110, which will also be located on the body (not on the Figure 17 ) moves the distal end of the primary electrode 207 (also not shown in Figure 15 shown in ).

[0285] refer to Figure 18A and Figure 18B In some embodiments, just before engaging the auxiliary release 1150 to unlock the movement of the auxiliary electrode 211, the primary electrode 207 has been deployed with the distal end 209 near the reference point 201 and has been locked in place. Figure 14B The auxiliary release 1150 is integral with the auxiliary actuator 1152. Specifically, the auxiliary release 1150 forms an end portion of the auxiliary actuator 1152 that can be depressed in direction 1831, which causes the auxiliary actuator 1152 to partially rotate downwardly toward the interface housing 1110, thereby causing the auxiliary actuator 1152 to engage with the primary electrode slider (not shown). Figure 18A Disengagement of the auxiliary actuator 1152 allows the auxiliary actuator 1152 and the fixably coupled auxiliary clamp 1153 to move independently of the primary actuator 1132, such that the auxiliary electrode 211 can move toward the reference point 102 independently of the primary electrode 207. Figure 21 and Figure 22 The operation of the auxiliary release 1152 to disengage the auxiliary actuator 1150 from the primary electrode slider is further described.

[0286] refer to Figure 19A and Figure 19B In some embodiments of the user interface 1101, the auxiliary release 1150 can be depressed to partially rotate the auxiliary actuator 1152 toward the interface housing 1110, thereby allowing the auxiliary actuator 1152 to move independently of the primary actuator 1132. Although the auxiliary actuator 1152 is unlocked by depressing the auxiliary release 1150, the auxiliary actuator 1152 and the associated auxiliary clamp 1153 have not yet moved. Therefore, as shown in the inset, the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 has not yet moved toward the reference point 201 relative to the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207.

[0287] refer to Figure 20A and Figure 20B, the auxiliary actuator 1152 has moved a distance 2033, causing the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 to extend beyond the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and beyond the reference point 201. The auxiliary actuator 1152 is fixably engaged with the auxiliary clamp 1153. Therefore, the auxiliary clamp 1153 also moves a distance 2033. Fixably engaging the auxiliary actuator 1152 with the auxiliary clamp 1153 enables a user (not shown) to apply a greater force to extend the auxiliary electrode 211 than would be possible if the user were only able to apply force on one side of the interface housing 1110 to move the auxiliary actuator 1152. For example, if the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 is forcibly entered into tissue (not shown), it may be valuable to allow the coiled shape of the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 to spiral into the tissue to anchor the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 in the tissue. After the auxiliary actuator 1152 has been moved to extend the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 , the auxiliary release 1150 is released to lock the position of the auxiliary actuator 1152 , and thus the position of the auxiliary electrode 211 .

[0288] When the auxiliary actuator 1152 moves through the distance 2033, the actuator interlock 1140 also moves forward by the distance 2033. As used in this specification, the term "forward" describes movement toward the coupling 1120 ( Figure 11 7 and 8 ). In the following figures, the forward direction is always positioned toward the left-hand side of the drawing or outward from the drawing. As further described below, when the actuator interlock 1140 abuts the primary release 1130 (and thus the coupled primary actuator 1132) and the auxiliary clamp 1153 (and thus the coupled auxiliary actuator 1152), forward travel of the auxiliary actuator 1152 and the auxiliary clamp 1153 is prevented. In various embodiments, for example, a pin (not shown) on the front end of the primary electrode slider 1533 can reach the end of a slot on the actuator interlock 1140, which in turn prevents movement of the auxiliary actuator 1152 and the auxiliary clamp 1153. Thus, the actuator interlock 1140 serves to limit the travel of the auxiliary actuator 1152 and, therefore, to limit the length to which the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 may extend beyond the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. Figures 23 to 31 The construction of the actuator interlock 1140 and the operation of the actuator interlock are described.

[0289] refer to Figure 21, showing the auxiliary release 1150 and auxiliary actuator 1152 in the locked position. When the auxiliary release 1150 is in the locked position, the auxiliary electrode 211 moves in unison with the primary electrode 207, as previously described with reference to FIG. Figure 17 As previously mentioned, in Figure 21 In an embodiment of the invention, the auxiliary release 1150 is integral with the auxiliary actuator 1152. The auxiliary actuator 1152 is rotatably mounted to the auxiliary electrode slider 2151 at a pivot 2155. When the auxiliary release 1150 is not depressed, a spring 2157 holds the auxiliary release 2150 in a locked position. The auxiliary clamp 1153 is fixedly coupled to the auxiliary electrode slider 2151 and moves in unison with the auxiliary actuator 1152 (or does not move, as the case may be). When the auxiliary release 1150 is in the locked position, the locking arm 2159 engages the locking notch 2139 in the primary electrode slider 1533. Figure 21 As shown, the auxiliary electrode 211 is in an extended position in which the primary actuator 1132 and the auxiliary actuator 1152 no longer move in unison.

[0290] refer to Figure 22 , showing the auxiliary release 1150 and the auxiliary actuator 1152 in the unlocked position. As previously described with reference to FIG19 , the auxiliary release 1150 is unlocked by depressing the auxiliary release 1150, thereby causing the auxiliary actuator 1152 to deform the spring 2157 and thereby causing the auxiliary actuator 1152 to rotate about the pivot 2155 to the unlocked position. With the auxiliary actuator 1152 rotated to the unlocked position, the locking arm 2159 is withdrawn from the locking recess 2139, thereby enabling the auxiliary actuator 1152 to move. The operator (not in Figure 22 ) may allow the auxiliary electrode 211 to extend independently of the primary electrode 207, as previously described with reference to Figures 18 to 20.

[0291] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, and as previously referenced Figure 4 12 to 14, it may be desirable to selectively move the primary and secondary electrodes in unison. Figure 6 As described, once the auxiliary electrode is deployed, it may be desirable to partially withdraw the primary electrode while maintaining the position of the auxiliary electrode. Figure 4 , the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 may be needle-shaped so as to penetrate tissue at or near the reference point 201. The auxiliary electrode 211 moves in unison with the primary electrode 207, thereby positioning the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode closer to the reference point 201. Figure 5The piercing capability provided by this exemplary configuration of the primary electrode 207 can be used to deploy the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 at a desired location relative to the reference point 201.

[0292] However, reference Figure 6 Once the position of the primary electrode 207 is utilized to deploy the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211, it may be desirable to partially retract the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 to apply current over the distance between the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 and the distal end 209 of the auxiliary electrode 207. A degree of selectivity (e.g., Figure 6 ) and maintaining the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 when the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is partially withdrawn are controlled by the actuator interlock 1140, which works in conjunction with the primary actuator and the auxiliary actuator, as described below with reference to Figures 23 to 31 as further described.

[0293] refer to Figure 23 , the actuator interlock 1140 is shown as being located within the housing 1110 of the user interface. Specifically, the actuator interlock 1140 is positioned within the auxiliary clamp 1153 (which moves in unison with the auxiliary actuator, as previously described with reference to FIG. 18 to FIG. Figure 22 12 to 13. Figure 17 Portions of the primary release 1130, actuator interlock 1140, and auxiliary clamp 1153 extend from the housing 1110 through the channel 2349 on the underside of the housing 1110. As previously described with reference Figure 21 and Figure 22 As described above, the auxiliary actuator 1152 engages the primary electrode slider 1533 so that the auxiliary electrode slider 2151 moves in unison with the primary electrode slider 1533. The actuator interlock 1140 is sized so that Figure 23In the first position shown, the second end 2341 of the actuator interlock 1140 abuts the leading end 2331 of the auxiliary actuator 1153, and the first end 2342 of the actuator interlock 1140 abuts the trailing edge 2354 of the auxiliary electrode slider 1533, such that the actuator interlock 1140 controls relative movement of the primary release 1130 (and therefore the primary actuator 1132) toward the auxiliary clamp 1153 (and therefore toward the auxiliary actuator 1152) and toward each other. In various embodiments, a pin (not shown) secured to the primary electrode slider 1533 slides within a slot (not shown) within the actuator interlock 1140, and hard stops are present at the ends of the slot in the actuator interlock 1140 that limit the travel of the pin and, correspondingly, the travel of the auxiliary electrode slider 2151. Thus, the auxiliary actuator 1140 operates to release the primary release 1130 (and, therefore, the primary actuator 1132) when the actuator interlock 1140 is in the Figure 23 In the first position shown, the distance between the primary release 1130 and the auxiliary clamp 1153 is maintained.

[0294] The actuator interlock 1140 also features a locking bar (not shown) that engages the primary release 1130. Figure 23 As shown in Figures 29 to 31 When the actuator interlock 1140 is in the first position, the locking bar prevents the primary release from being engaged, as described further below. The actuator interlock 1140 also features a locking tooth 2343 that is configured to engage a locking notch (not in the housing 1110) in the second position of the actuator interlock 1140. Figure 23 ), as shown below Figure 24 The locking teeth 2343 operate to secure the actuator interlock 1140 in place so that the primary actuator (not shown) Figure 23 ) and the primary release 1130 can be independent of the auxiliary actuator (not shown in Figure 23 ) and the auxiliary clamping member 1153 moves so that when the auxiliary electrode (not shown in Figure 23 ) remains in place, the primary electrode (not shown in Figure 23 Finally, lever 2344 allows the operator to engage actuator interlock 1140 to rotate actuator interlock 1140 between the first position and the second position, as further described below.

[0295] refer to Figure 24 In the first position of the actuator interlock 1140, the locking tooth 2343 is positioned to engage the locking recess 2446 in the housing 1110 to lock the auxiliary electrode (not in the Figure 24The locking notch 2446 is positioned so that the auxiliary actuator and the auxiliary clamp (not shown) are moved Figure 24 ) to extend the auxiliary electrode (not shown in Figure 24 ) thereafter receives the locking teeth 2343 as previously described. It will be understood, and as will be further described below, that when the actuator interlock 1140 is Figure 24 The first position shown is rotated to the second position ( Figures 26 to 28 10), the locking teeth 2343 fit within the locking recesses 2446 to prevent the actuator interlock 1140 from moving relative to the housing when, for example, the primary release 1130 is engaged and moved relative to the housing 1110. As further described below, the use of the locking teeth 2343 to secure the position of the actuator interlock 1140 is used to lock the auxiliary electrode slider to prevent movement of the auxiliary electrode (both are not in Figure 24 ), as further described below.

[0296] refer to Figure 25 , the actuator interlock 1140 is disposed within the housing 1110, wherein the actuator interlock 1140 is shown in a first position. The actuator interlock 1140 rotates within the housing 1110 about the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211. A lever 2344 extends out of the housing 1110 and through the channel 2349 to allow a user to engage and rotate the actuator interlock 1140. As previously shown in Figures 18 to 20, the interlock lever 2344 is located forward of the auxiliary actuator 1152 and the auxiliary clamp 1153, with the forward direction being the left side of the figures.

[0297] refer to Figure 26 , when deploying auxiliary electrodes (not in Figure 26 ) and after the primary electrode (not shown in Figure 26 The actuator interlock 1140 is shown in a second position before being partially retracted (shown in FIG). The lever 2344 is used to rotate the actuator interlock 1140 relative to the housing 1110 so as to move the locking tooth 2343 of the actuator interlock 1140 to a second position within the channel 2349, wherein the locking tooth 2343 engages the locking notch (not shown in FIG). Figure 26 ) to secure the actuator interlock 1140 in place. Figure 23 As described above, when the actuator interlock 1140 is in the first position, the actuator interlock 1140 holds the primary release (not in the Figure 26 However, when the actuator interlock 1140 is in a position such as Figure 26In the second position shown, the actuator interlock 1140 no longer prevents relative movement of the primary release 1130 (and therefore the primary actuator 1132) toward the auxiliary clamp 1153 (and therefore the auxiliary actuator 1152). With the actuator interlock 1140 in the second position, the position of the auxiliary electrode slider 2151 is fixed relative to the housing 1110 and, therefore, cannot move longitudinally relative to the housing 1110; however, the primary actuator 1132 can move when engaging the primary release 1130. Thus, the primary actuator (also not in the second position) is not in the second position. Figure 26 ) can be independent of the auxiliary actuator (also not shown in Figure 26 ) to allow the primary actuator to move toward the auxiliary clamp 1153, thereby Figure 26 Retract the primary electrode (not shown) Figure 26 shown in ).

[0298] refer to Figure 27 , provides another view of the actuator interlock 1140 in the second position to illustrate how the locking tooth 2343 engages the locking notch 2446 in the housing 1110 to lock the auxiliary electrode (not in the Figure 26 ) is locked into place. Locking notch 2446 receives locking tooth 2343 to lock actuator interlock 1140 and secure the position of auxiliary electrode slider 2151 in place while primary actuator 1132 and primary electrode slider 1533 are able to move when engaging primary release 1130. Similarly, lever 2344 allows the user to move actuator interlock 1140 from the first position ( Figures 23 to 25 shown) moves to the second position ( Figures 26 to 28 ). It will be appreciated that the lever 2344, which is slidable on the channel 2349 to enable the actuator interlock 1140 to move to the second position, has the nature of a sliding lock that is slidable from a first position to a second position.

[0299] refer to Figure 28 , in the user interface 1101 , the actuator interlock 1140 has been rotated within the housing 1110 about the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211 to a second position. Figure 28 Similar to Figure 25 , the difference is that in Figure 28 , the actuator interlock 1140 has rotated to the second position, and Figure 25 The actuator interlock 1140 is shown in a first position. The user has engaged the lever 2344 (extending from the actuator interlock 1140 out of the housing 1110 and through the channel 2349) to rotate the actuator interlock 1140 to the second position, as previously described with reference to FIG. Figure 26 and Figure 27 Descriptive.

[0300] refer to Figure 29 , another view of the actuator interlock 1140 is provided to illustrate the operation of the locking lever 2945 associated with the actuator interlock 1140. The locking lever 2945 selectively prevents movement of the primary release 1130. As previously described with reference Figure 5 As described, once the primary electrode 207 is deployed with the distal end 209 at the desired position relative to the reference point 201, the primary electrode 207 remains stationary as the auxiliary electrode 211 is extended. The locking rod 2945 prevents the primary release 1130 from being engaged, thereby preventing the primary actuator (not in Figure 29 ) moves, thereby preventing the primary electrode from moving when the auxiliary electrode is extended (both are not shown in Figure 29 are shown in ).

[0301] Still refer to Figure 29 , the actuator interlock 1140 is shown in a first position and is in a position where the auxiliary release and auxiliary actuator are engaged to operate independently of the primary actuator and as Figure 5 The main electrodes shown (not shown) Figure 29 ) moves the auxiliary electrodes (neither of which is shown in Figure 29 In this position, the distal end 2957 of the locking rod 2945 is not engaged with the primary release 1130. Figure 17 As described above, the primary release 1130 and thus the primary actuator 1132 can be operated to move the primary electrode (not shown) as needed. Figure 29 ). For example, as also described above and with reference to FIG. 14 and Figure 22 , until the auxiliary release engages the auxiliary actuator, and therefore the auxiliary electrode, causing them to move in unison with the primary actuator and primary electrode, as previously described.

[0302] refer to Figure 30 , when the actuator interlock 1140 is in the first position, the auxiliary actuator (not in Figure 30 ) has moved forward, and thus the auxiliary clamp 1153 has moved forward to extend the auxiliary electrode (not shown in Figure 3013 ). As a result, the actuator interlock 1140 moves forward and, as a result, the locking rod 2945 extends through the locking channel 3060 in the primary release 1130. The locking channel 3060 includes a locking cam 3062 and an opening cam 3064. When the actuator interlock 1140 is in the first position, the locking rod 2945 passes through the locking cam 3062 of the locking channel 3060. Therefore, if a user attempts to engage the primary release 1130 by depressing it as described with reference to FIG. 13 , the locking rod 2945 engages the first inner surface 3063 within the locking cam 3062, thereby preventing the primary release 1130 from being depressed. However, as described with reference to FIG. Figure 31 As further described, when the actuator interlock 1140 rotates to the second position, the locking rod 2945 rotates with the actuator interlock 1140 and the locking rod 2945 moves to the opening cam 3064 where the locking rod 2945 no longer engages the first inner surface 3063 when the user attempts to depress the primary release 1130 .

[0303] refer to Figure 31 , the actuator interlock 1140 has been rotated to the second position within the housing 1110 about the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211. With the actuator interlock 1140 rotated to the second position, the locking bar 2945 has been rotated into the open lobe 3064. With the locking bar 2945 extending through the open lobe 3064, the user can depress the primary release 1130 without the surface of the locking channel 3060 engaging the locking bar 2945. Thus, once the actuator interlock 1140 is moved to the second position, the primary release 1130 can be engaged to enable partial retraction of the primary electrode 207, as further described below.

[0304] refer to Figure 32A and Figure 32B , the auxiliary electrode 211 has been deployed and locked in place. The distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 has been extended beyond the reference point 201, and the actuator interlock 1140 has been moved to the second position within the housing 1110 before the primary release 1130 is engaged to begin retracting the primary electrode 207, thereby withdrawing the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 away from the reference point 201. Thus, once the auxiliary electrode 211 has been extended and secured in place, the primary electrode 207 can be moved to position the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 relative to the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 to facilitate application of current to provide the desired treatment. As shown in FIG. Figures 29 to 31 As described above, once the actuator interlock 1140 is in the second position, the locking rod (not in Figure 32A ) does not prevent depression of the primary release 1130. Thus, the user interface is configured for partially withdrawing the primary electrode 207.

[0305] refer to Figure 33A 33, primary release 1130 has been depressed in direction 3331 toward housing 1110 to release primary actuator 1132. Primary actuator 1132 and primary release 1130 can now be moved rearward to partially retract distal end 209 of primary electrode 207 away from reference point 201. Depressing primary release 1130 enables primary actuator 1132 to be moved relative to reference point 201 as previously described. Figures 12A to 17 The housing 1110 moves. Figure 22 As described above, previously activated auxiliary release 1150 disengages locking arm 2259 from locking notch 2239 in primary electrode slider 1533 so that movement of auxiliary actuator 1152 and auxiliary electrode slider 2151 is no longer coupled to primary electrode slider 1533. Figure 33A , the actuator interlock 1140 has been rotated to the second position so as to not block relative movement between the primary release 1130 and the auxiliary clamp 1153. Thus, the primary actuator 1132, and therefore the primary electrode 207, can now move independently of the auxiliary electrode 211.

[0306] refer to Figure 34A and Figure 34B , the primary actuator 1132 has moved a distance 3433 to retract the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 by the same distance 3433. The primary release 1130 is then released to travel in direction 3431, wherein the primary actuator 1132 and the primary release 1130 are then locked in place relative to the housing 1110, as previously described with reference to Figures 14A to 17 As the primary electrode 207 moves, the indicator 1192 on the depth gauge 1190 also moves a distance 3433 to reflect the retraction of the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. Thus, in these embodiments, the user interface has allowed the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 to be positioned at a desired location near the reference point 201 in preparation for applying current to treat tissue at or near the reference point 201.

[0307] refer to Figure 35 Another embodiment of the user interface 3501 may be used to determine the position of the reference point (not shown). Figure 35 As in previously described embodiments, in these embodiments, the user interface 3501 includes components that move parallel to or transverse to the axis 3521 or components that rotate about the axis 3521 along a curve 3523, as further described below. In such embodiments, the user interface 3501 includes a coupler 3520 that is configured to engage an electrosurgical device, such as a bronchoscope (not shown). Figure 35By contrast to previous embodiments of the user interface, these embodiments of the user interface 3501 do not include a sheath actuator. However, the sheath actuator (as described in conjunction with previous embodiments and as described with reference to Figures 7 to 8) may be configured to provide a plurality of user interfaces. Figure 11 The sheath actuator described herein may be added to these embodiments of the user interface 3501. Alternatively, the sheath actuator may be integrated with the electrosurgical device as previously described with reference to FIG. 7. Furthermore, although not described herein, the sheath actuator may be integrated with the electrosurgical device as previously described with reference to FIG. Figure 35 shown in, but with Figures 11 to 24 Similar to the previous embodiment of the user interface 1101 of FIG. 35 , the leads from the switchable current source are received at the user interface 3501 and the sheath houses the primary and auxiliary electrodes (not shown) extending from the coupling 3520. Figure 35 shown in ).

[0308] The user interface 3501 includes several user controls, the operation and effects of which are described in further detail in the following figures. Figure 35 35). The primary release 3530 includes a release lever 3532 and a release spring 3533 to bias the release lever 3532 in a locked position. The primary release 3530 engages a slidable shaft 3536 that is slidably received within a front opening 3538 in the primary release 3530. The slidable shaft 3536 may be fixedly coupled to the coupler 3520. The slidable shaft 3536 is configured to move forward and backward along an axis 3521. The slidable shaft 3536 may be fixedly coupled to a depth adjuster rod 3534 having a rack and pinion nature. As further described below, the depth adjuster rod 3534 is engaged by an actuator interlock 3540 to selectively fix the position of the slidable shaft 3536, and thereby fix the position of the primary electrode.

[0309] The slidable shaft 3536 includes depth markings 3539 that can be read at the front opening 3538 to determine the position of the primary electrode (not shown). Figure 11 , read the depth markings 3539 at the front opening 3538 in a manner similar to reading the indicator 1192 on the depth gauge 1190 to determine the primary electrode (not in Figure 35 As will be described further below, the primary electrode may be fixedly coupled to the housing 3510 such that sliding the housing 3510 relative to the slidable shaft 3536 controls the position of the primary electrode. In other words, Figure 11Compared to previous embodiments of the user interface of the present invention, which included a separate primary actuator 1132, the housing of the user interface 3501 itself acts as the primary actuator for the primary electrode. The housing 3510 moves forward and backward along the axis 3521 to extend and retract the primary electrode, respectively, as further described below.

[0310] The auxiliary actuator 3552 may be fixedly coupled to the auxiliary electrode slider (not shown). Figure 35 As shown in Figure 36 Sliding the auxiliary actuator 3552 within the auxiliary channel 3554 allows the auxiliary electrode (not in Figure 35 35). The auxiliary actuator 3552 is selectively locked and unlocked relative to the housing 3510 (and therefore selectively locked and unlocked relative to the primary electrode, the movement of the primary electrode being controlled by movement of the housing 3510) by an interlocking lever 3540 fixed to the auxiliary electrode slider 3551. The interlocking lever 3540 moves along the axis 3521 within the guide slot 3542 and moves along the curve 3523 about the axis 3521. The position of the interlocking lever 3540 relative to the guide slot 3542 controls the locking and unlocking of the auxiliary actuator 3550, and therefore the locking and unlocking of the auxiliary electrode, as further described below. Figure 35 In the initial configuration shown, the lever end 3547 is located at a first position 3571 within the guide slot 3542, which secures the auxiliary actuator 3552 at the second end 3555 of the auxiliary channel 3554. In an exemplary embodiment, a guide mark 3543 may be included on the housing 3510 near the guide slot 3542 to guide the user in moving the interlock lever 3540 to control the operation of the auxiliary actuator 3550. As further described below, in other configurations, the depth adjuster rod 3534 may be engaged by the interlock lever 3540 to selectively lock the primary electrode (not in position). Figure 35 ) position.

[0311] refer to Figure 36 , Figure 35 The exploded view of the user interface 3501 further illustrates the composition and operation of the user interface 3501 in detail. Figure 35As described, the user interface 3501 includes a coupler 3520 fixedly coupled to one end of a slidable shaft 3536. The slidable shaft 3536 is slidably received within a front opening 3538 of the primary release 3530, which is fixedly coupled to the depth adjuster rod 3534. The release lever 3532 selectively releases the slidable shaft 3536 to move relative to the front opening 3538 and is biased in a locked position by a spring 3637 coupled between the primary release 3530 and the release lever 3532. The primary release 3530 is fixedly coupled to the housing 3510. Outside the primary release 3530, the slidable shaft 3536 is slidably received within an opening 3655 in the auxiliary electrode slider 3551.

[0312] The auxiliary electrode slider 3551 can be fixedly coupled to an auxiliary actuator 3552 that slidably moves within an auxiliary actuator channel 3554. Similarly, on the underside of the housing 3510, an auxiliary clamp 3653 is coupled to the underside of the auxiliary electrode slider 3551 and extends through an additional channel 3655 in the housing 3510. As previously described with reference to previous embodiments of the user interface, providing the auxiliary actuator 3552 and the auxiliary clamp 3653 allows a user to apply force as needed to move the auxiliary electrode (not in the Figure 36 When the auxiliary electrode slider 3551 is slidably received in the housing 3510, the electrode (not shown in Figure 36 ) can extend through the front opening 3641 in the housing 3510.

[0313] exist Figure 36, further aspects of the depth adjuster rod 3534 and the interlocking lever 3540 are shown in an exploded view of FIG, to further describe the configuration of the user interface 3501. The interlocking lever 3640 is secured to the auxiliary electrode slider 3551. The interlocking lever 3540 is configured to engage the depth adjuster rod 3534. Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the depth adjuster rod 3534 includes a lower gear surface 3633 and an upper gear surface 3635. Accordingly, the interlocking lever 3540 includes a lower gear lock 3643 and an upper gear lock 3645. When the user manipulates the lever end 3547, the interlocking lever 3540 can be rotated to engage the lower gear lock 3643 with the lower gear surface 3633 of the depth adjuster rod 3534 and to engage the upper gear lock 3645 with the upper gear surface 3635 of the depth adjuster rod 3534. In an exemplary embodiment, the lower gear lock 3643 and the upper gear lock 3645 are flexible members that are configured to rotate and engage on the lower gear surface 3633 and the upper gear surface 3635, as described further below. As the lower gear lock 3643 and the upper gear lock 3645 rotate on the lower gear surface 3633 and the upper gear surface 3635 of the depth adjuster rod 3534, which applies pressure to the lower gear surface 3633 and the upper gear surface 3635 of the depth adjuster rod 3534, the lower gear lock 3643 and the upper gear lock 3645 flex. This applied pressure ensures that the interlock lever 3540 does not move relative to the depth adjuster rod 3534 until the interlock lever 3540 rotates to disengage the lower gear lock 3643 and the upper gear lock 3645 from the lower gear surface 3633 and the upper gear surface 3635 of the depth adjuster rod 3534. When the lower gear lock 3643 and the upper gear lock 3645 of the interlock lever 3540 engage the lower gear surface 3633 and the upper gear surface 3635, respectively, of the depth adjuster rod 3534, the slidable sleeve 3536 is fixed relative to the depth adjuster rod 3534 and thus moves in unison with the interlock lever 3540. Thus, the movement of the slidable sleeve 3536 is limited to the movement permitted by the guide slot 3542, which engages the interlock lever 3540, as further described below.

[0314] refer to Figure 37A and Figure 37B , the user interface 3501 is shown in a first configuration before the primary electrode 207 is extended beyond the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 near the reference point 201, as shown in the inset. As previously mentioned, the user interface 3501 does not include a sheath actuator for positioning the sheath 103, although this may be added to the user interface, for example, at the coupling 3520, or may be included within the electrosurgical device (not shown). Figure 37A shown in ).

[0315] In various configurations of the user interface 3501, the slidable shaft 3536 is fully extended from the primary release 3530, corresponding to the placement of the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 within the distal end 105 of the sheath 103. Prior to deployment of the auxiliary electrode 211, as previously described with reference to previous embodiments of the user interface 3501, the auxiliary actuator 3552 is positioned at the rear end 3555 of the auxiliary channel 3554 in the housing 3510, corresponding to the placement of the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. The interlock lever 3540 is also in an initial position, with the lever end 3547 positioned at the first end 3571 of the guide slot 3542 to secure the auxiliary actuator 3552 in place at the second end 3555 of the auxiliary channel 3554.

[0316] Deployment of the primary electrode 207 and the secondary electrode 211 begins when a user engages the primary release 3530. In an exemplary embodiment, the primary release 3530 is engaged by depressing the distal end 3729 of the release lever 3532, deforming the release spring 3637 and allowing the slidable shaft 3536 to move. To extend the primary electrode 207, with the primary release 3530 so engaged, the housing 3510 is moved along the slidable shaft 3536 in the direction 3708. Whether the desired position has been reached can be determined by reading the depth markings 3539 on the slidable shaft 3536 at the front opening 3538 in the primary release 3530. Once the housing 3510 has been moved along the slidable shaft 3536 to move the primary electrode 3507 to the desired position, the distal end 3535 of the release lever 3532 is released, allowing the release spring 3637 to return to its undeformed state and locking the slidable shaft 3536 in place relative to the primary release 3530. The primary release 3530 is configured to apply mechanical pressure to the slidable shaft 3536 such that the primary release 3530 and the remainder of the user interface 3501 cannot move relative to the slidable shaft 3536 until the distal end 3729 of the release lever 3532 is depressed to engage the primary release 3530. Accordingly, once the distal end 3729 of the release lever 3532 is released to disengage the primary release 3530, the primary release 3530 and the remainder of the user interface 3501 cannot move relative to the slidable shaft 3536, thereby fixing the position of the primary electrode 207, as further described herein.

[0317] refer to Figure 38A and Figure 38B , the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 has been Figure 37A and Figure 37B The described manner extends to the desired position near the reference point 201. The housing 3510 is relative to Figure 38A35. The movement of the slidable shaft 3536 shown in FIG. 35 has caused the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 to move to a desired position proximate the reference point 201. Reaching the desired position can be verified by reading the depth markings 3639 on the slidable shaft 3536 at the front opening 3538 in the primary release 3530. Furthermore, because the interlock lever 3540 has secured the auxiliary actuator 3552 at the second end 3555 of the auxiliary channel 3554, movement of the housing 3510 also causes the auxiliary actuator 3552 to move the auxiliary electrode 211 in unison with the movement of the primary electrode 207, with the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 remaining positioned within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207.

[0318] refer to Figure 39 , the interlock lever 3540 engages the depth adjuster rod 3534 to lock the auxiliary actuator (not in Figure 39 As previously described, the primary release 3530 controls the position of the slidable shaft (not shown in FIG. Figure 39 ) passes through the front opening 3538 to control the primary electrode (also not shown) Figure 39 In addition to the front opening 3538, the rod opening 3928 separately and slidably receives the depth adjuster rod 3534 when the slidable shaft moves through the primary release 3530.

[0319] As previously described, the depth adjuster lever 3534 includes a lower gear surface 3633 and an upper gear surface 3635 that are selectively engaged by the lower gear lock 3643 and the upper gear lock 3645, respectively, of the interlock lever 3540. The lever end 3547 allows the user to rotate the interlock lever 3540 to engage the gear locks 3643 and 3645 with the gear surfaces 3633 and 3635, respectively.

[0320] refer to Figure 40 , the interlock lever 3740 can be positioned so that the lower gear lock and the upper gear lock (both of which are behind the slidable shaft 3536 and therefore not in the Figure 40 ) slides through the rod opening 3928 and the lower gear lock and the upper gear lock (both not in Figure 40 ) do not engage the lower gear surface 3633 and the upper gear surface 3635 of the depth adjuster rod 3534. In this configuration, the primary and auxiliary electrodes (both of which are not in Figure 40 The movement of the main release and the housing (not shown) is achieved by releasing both the main release and the housing (not shown) Figure 40 37 and 38. The position of the lever end 3547 generally corresponds to the guide slot (not shown) described further below. Figure 40 ) in the first position, the second position or the third position, wherein the lower gear lock and the upper gear lock do not move the auxiliary electrode slider (also not in the Figure 40 36) is secured to the depth adjuster rod 3534. A user can engage the lever end 4047 to rotate the interlock lever 3540 in a direction that will direct the lower and upper gear locks toward the lower and upper gear surfaces 3633, 3635, respectively, of the depth adjuster rod 3534, as further described below.

[0321] refer to Figure 41 , the interlock lever 3540 is rotated by the user manipulating the lever end 3547 so that the lower gear lock 3643 and the upper gear lock 3645 of the interlock lever 3540 can begin to engage the lower gear surface 3633 and the upper gear surface 3635 of the depth adjuster rod 3534 in front of the rod opening 3928. As previously described, in the exemplary embodiment, the lower gear lock 3643 and the upper gear lock 3645 of the interlock lever 3540 are flexible so that they can be slightly deformed to engage the depth adjuster rod 3534. Therefore, the position of the lever end 3547 generally corresponds to the guide groove of the lever end 3547 described further below (not shown). Figure 40 The position of the auxiliary electrode slider is moved between a third position in the guide groove and a fourth position in the guide groove, wherein the lower gear lock and the upper gear lock do not move the auxiliary electrode slider (also not in the Figure 40 ) is secured to a depth adjuster rod 3534, as further described below.

[0322] refer to Figure 42 , the interlock lever 43540 is further rotated into the locked position by the user manipulating the lever end 3547, wherein the lower gear lock 3643 and the upper gear lock 3645 of the interlock lever 3540 respectively engage the lower gear surface 3633 and the upper gear surface 3635 of the depth adjuster rod 3534 in front of the rod opening 3928. Figure 42 3643 and the upper gear lock 3645 secure the interlock lever 3540 to the depth adjuster rod 3534. In this position, even if the housing and therefore the primary electrode (both are not in Figure 42 ) moves, the auxiliary actuator 3540 also holds the auxiliary actuator (not shown in Figure 42 The function of the interlock lever 3540 in positioning the primary and auxiliary electrodes is further described below.

[0323] exist Figures 43A to 47C , a side view and a top view of a second embodiment of a user interface are shown, along with illustrations showing the positions of electrodes corresponding to the configuration of the user interface. Figures 43A to 47C, it will be appreciated that the lever end 3547 of the interlock lever 3540 provides a visible and tactile indicator of the phase in which the user interface 3501 is operated, such as extending the auxiliary electrode 211 or retracting the primary electrode 207, for example.

[0324] refer to Figures 43A to 43C , shows the user interface 3501 with the primary electrode 207 extended before any steps have been taken to extend the auxiliary electrode 211. The primary release 3530 is in a locked position to secure the housing 3510 relative to the slidable shaft 3536. Thus, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is fixed in a position proximate the reference point 201. The interlock lever 3540 is in an initial locked position, as shown by the lever end 3547 of the interlock lever 3540 being disposed in a first position 3571 in the guide slot 3542. In this position, the lower gear lock and the upper gear lock (not in Figure 43A and Figure 43B ) is not engaged with the depth adjuster rod 3534. However, when the lever end 3547 is in the first position 3571, the interlocking lever 3540 is constrained to move along the axis 3521 ( Figure 35 ) moves, and thus the retainer prevents the auxiliary actuator 3552 and the auxiliary electrode slider 3551 from seating within the auxiliary channel 3554. Thus, because the primary electrode 207 is fixed in place and because the auxiliary electrode slider 3551 is locked in place, the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 is also locked in place relative to the reference point 201.

[0325] refer to Figures 44A to 44C , shows the user interface 3501 with the primary electrode 207 extended and the actuator interlock 3540 being manipulated to unlock movement of the auxiliary electrode 211. The primary release 3530 remains in the locked position to secure the housing 2510 relative to the slidable shaft 3536. Thus, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 remains fixed in a position proximate to the reference point 302. The interlock lever 3540 is moved to a second position, as indicated by the lever end 3547 of the interlock lever 3740 having been moved to the second position 4473 of the guide slot 3542. In this position, as in the reference Figures 44A to 44C In the position described, the lower gear lock and the upper gear lock (not shown) of the interlock lever 3540 are Figure 44A and Figure 44B ) is still not engaged with the depth adjuster rod 3534. However, with the lever end 3547 in the second position 4473, the interlocking lever 3540 is no longer constrained within the auxiliary channel 3554 along the axis 3521 ( Figure 35) movement. Thus, the lever end 3547 can engage with limited movement within the guide slot 3542. Thus, the auxiliary actuator 3552 and the auxiliary slider 3551 can also engage with limited movement within the auxiliary channel 3554 to move the auxiliary electrode 211 toward the reference point 201. With the primary electrode 207 thus fixed in place, the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 can move toward the reference point 201 independently of the primary electrode 207.

[0326] refer to Figures 45A to 45C , the primary release 3530 remains in the locked position and the auxiliary electrode 211 has been extended. Therefore, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 remains fixed in a position close to the reference point 201. The interlock lever 3540 moves to the third position, as shown by the lever end 3547 of the interlock lever 3540 being set in the third position 4575 of the guide groove 3542. In this position, as in the reference Figures 44A to 44C In the position described, the lower gear lock member and the upper gear lock member (not shown) of the interlock lever 3540 are Figure 45A and Figure 45B 3544) remains disengaged from the depth adjuster rod 3534. When the user moves the auxiliary actuator 3552 to move the auxiliary electrode slider 3551 within the auxiliary channel 3554, the lever end 3547 moves to a third position 4575 within the guide slot 3542. Movement of the auxiliary actuator 3552 causes the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 to move to a desired position beyond the reference point 201 while the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 remains fixed in place. As previously described, the insulator 515 on the auxiliary electrode 211 electrically isolates the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 from the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207.

[0327] refer to Figures 46A to 46C , the primary release 3530 remains in the locked position to secure the housing 3510 relative to the slidable shaft 3536, and the actuator interlock 3540 has been manipulated to lock the movement of the auxiliary electrode 211. Therefore, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 remains fixed in a position close to the reference point 201. The user moves the interlock lever 3540 to the fourth position 4677, causing the lever end 3547 of the interlock lever 3540 to move to the fourth position 4677 of the guide groove 3542. In this position, as shown in the reference Figure 42As described above, the lower gear lock 3643 and the upper gear lock 3645 of the interlock lever 3540 are respectively engaged with the lower gear surface 3633 and the upper gear surface 3635 of the depth adjuster rod 3534. Therefore, with the lever end 3547 in the fourth position 4677 of the guide groove 3542, the interlock lever 3540, and therefore the auxiliary electrode slider 3551 and the auxiliary actuator 3552, are locked in place relative to the depth adjuster rod 3534. As a result, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 are both locked in place relative to the reference point 201.

[0328] refer to Figures 47A to 47C , the primary release 3530 has been engaged to unlock the position of the housing 3510 relative to the slidable shaft 3536, and the housing 3510 has been moved in direction 4781 to partially retract the distal end 309 of the primary electrode 207. As a result, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is partially withdrawn from the reference point 201 toward the distal end 105 of the sheath 103. By the movement of the housing 3510, the interlock lever 3540 is moved to the fifth position, wherein the lever end 3547 of the interlock lever 3540 is moved to the fifth position 4779 of the guide groove 3542. In this position, as shown in reference Figure 42 As described above, the lower gear lock 3643 and the upper gear lock 3645 of the interlock lever 3540 continue to engage the lower gear surface 3633 and the upper gear surface 3635, respectively, of the depth adjuster rod 3534. Thus, with the lever end 3547 in the fourth position 4779 of the guide slot 3542, the interlock lever 3540, and therefore the auxiliary electrode slider 3551 and the auxiliary actuator 3552, remain locked in place relative to the depth adjuster rod 3534. Movement of the housing 3510 causes the auxiliary electrode slider 3551 and the auxiliary actuator 3552 to move forward in the auxiliary channel 3554, allowing the auxiliary electrode slider 3551 to remain locked in place relative to the depth adjuster rod 3534 while the housing 3510 moves in direction 4781. Thus, once the auxiliary electrode 211 has been extended and secured in position, the primary electrode 207 can be moved to position the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 relative to the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 to facilitate application of current to provide the desired treatment. Thus, these embodiments of the user interface have allowed the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 to be positioned at a desired location near the reference point 201 in preparation for application of current to treat tissue at or near the reference point 201.

[0329] refer to Figure 48, shows another embodiment of a user interface 4801 for positioning an electrode. The user interface 4801 includes components that move parallel to an axis 4821 or rotate about the axis 4821 along a curve 4823, as described further below. As also described further below, the user interface 4801 is typically controlled by sliding the outer housing 4810 along the axis 4821, by sliding an actuator extending through the outer housing 4810 at a first end 4841 of the outer housing 4810, and by rotating the outer housing about the axis 4821.

[0330] The user interface 4801 includes a coupler 4820 for engaging a port on an electrosurgical device, such as a bronchoscope, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 , Figures 7 and 8. The user interface 4801 also includes a means for positioning the sheath (not shown). Figure 48 ) of the sheath actuator 4804, as previously described with reference to FIG. 7 to FIG. Figure 11 The sheath actuator 4804 includes a slidable sleeve 4812 and a sheath lock 4806 for engaging the slidable sleeve 4812 and securing the slidable sleeve 4812 in place, as further described below. It should be understood that, as described with reference to Figure 35 As described and with respect to another embodiment of the user interface 3501, the sheath actuator may be part of the bronchoscope or a separate device (not shown) inserted between the user interface 4801 and the bronchoscope. Figure 48 shown in ).

[0331] The user interface 4801 includes an outer housing 4810 configured to manipulate the electrodes. The outer housing 4810 includes a first guide slot 4831 configured to receive and direct the movement of a primary actuator 4832 extending upwardly therethrough. The outer housing 4810 also includes a second guide slot 4851 configured to receive an auxiliary actuator (not shown). Figure 48 ). As further described below, rotation of the outer housing 4810 along the curve 4823 about the axis 4821 exposes the auxiliary actuator and directs the auxiliary actuator into the second guide slot 4851. When the auxiliary actuator is received by the second guide slot 4851, the auxiliary actuator can be secured in place by a slidable actuator lock 4859, the operation of which is further described below. Figure 48 As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 11 In the embodiment shown in , leads from a switchable current source are received at a user interface 4801 , and a sheath housing the primary and auxiliary electrodes extends from the user interface 4801 via a connector 4820 .

[0332] refer to Figure 49, the outer housing 4810 includes a first guide slot 4831 for engaging a primary actuator 4832. The primary actuator 4832 extends from the primary electrode slider 4914, as further described below. The primary actuator 4832 extends upwardly through the first guide slot 4831 in the outer housing 4810. By sliding the primary actuator 4832 through the first guide slot 4831, the user can extend, lock, and partially retract the primary electrode (not in the Figure 49 ). The outer housing 4810 also includes a second guide channel 4851 that is configured to receive an auxiliary actuator 4952 and extends from the auxiliary electrode slider 4916 through the intermediate guide channel 4933 in the primary electrode slider 4914, as further described below. When it is desired to retract the auxiliary electrode, a ramp 4957 adjacent to the second end 4958 of the second guide channel 4851 and on the underside of the outer housing 4810 engages and overturns the auxiliary actuator 4852, as will be further described below.

[0333] The second guide slot 4851 in the outer housing 4810 is configured to receive the auxiliary actuator 4952, as further described below, when the outer housing 4810 is moved along the curve 4823 about the axis 4821 ( Figure 48 ) is rotated, the auxiliary actuator 4952 is exposed and introduced into the second guide channel 4851. When the auxiliary actuator is received by the second guide channel 4851, the auxiliary actuator can be secured in place by a slidable actuator lock 4859, the operation of which is further described below.

[0334] The primary electrode slider 4914 can be longitudinally fixed to the primary electrode (not shown). Figure 49 4914 ), such that longitudinal movement of the primary electrode slider 4914 extends and retracts the primary electrode without twisting the primary electrode. The primary electrode slider 4914 is slidably and rotatably received within the outer housing 4810. The primary actuator 4832 extends outwardly from the primary electrode slider 4914 such that it extends upwardly through the outer housing 4810. The primary electrode slider 4914 also includes an intermediate guide channel 4933 configured to receive an auxiliary actuator 4952 extending from the auxiliary electrode slider 4916.

[0335] Auxiliary electrode slider 4916 can be fixed longitudinally to the auxiliary electrode (not in Figure 494933 in the primary electrode slider 4914). In another exemplary embodiment, when the outer housing 4810 is rotated to move the second guide slot 4851 so that it no longer overlaps the intermediate guide slot 4933 in the primary electrode slider 4914 , the ramp 4959 engages and compresses the auxiliary actuator 4952 to fit under the outer housing 4810 .

[0336] The sheath actuator 4804 includes a slidable sleeve 4812 that is fixedly coupled to a sheath (not shown) and slidably received within a coupler 4820 and secured with a sheath lock 4806. The operation of the sheath actuator 4804 is further described with reference to Figures 50 and 51. In an exemplary embodiment, the slidable sleeve 4812 can be fixedly coupled to the outer housing 4810 so that the electrodes (not shown) manipulated using the user interface 4810 can be moved. Figure 49 Movement of the electrode relative to the sheath is caused by movement of the electrode relative to the sheath.

[0337] refer to Figure 50A and Figure 50B And when used in conjunction with the user interface 4801, the sheath actuator 4804 controls the position of the sheath 103. Specifically, the position of the sheath 103 is controlled by sliding the slidable sleeve 4812 within the coupling 4820 and securing the sheath 103 in the desired position by securing the slidable sleeve 4812 with the sheath lock 4806. As previously described, the sheath actuator 4804 can be used with Figure 9 The sheath lock 4806 is operated in a similar manner to the sheath lock 706 of the embodiment of the present invention. The slidable sleeve 4812 can be fixedly mounted to the outer housing 4810 and slidably received within the coupler 4820. When the slidable sleeve 4812 is positioned to position the sheath 103 containing the electrodes 207 and 211 in the desired position, the sheath lock 4806 is locked to secure the slidable sleeve 4812 in place. The sheath lock 4806 can be a spring-loaded lock, a thumbscrew, or a spring-loaded lock as previously described with reference to FIG. 7 to FIG. Figure 10 Other similar mechanisms are described to secure the slidable sleeve 4812 in place, thereby fixing the position of the sheath 103.

[0338] As previously described and as shown in the illustration, in an exemplary embodiment, the auxiliary electrode 211 is received within the primary electrode, with the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 initially positioned just within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. In turn, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is positioned just within the distal end 105 of the sheath 103. The distal end of the sheath 103 may initially be positioned away from the reference point 201 or in close proximity to the reference point before the sheath actuator 4804 is used to position the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 near the reference point 201.

[0339] refer to Figure 51A and Figure 51B In conjunction with the user interface 4801, the sheath actuator 4804 is used to move the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 closer to the reference point 201 as shown in the inset. Relative movement of the outer housing 4810 toward the coupler 4820 by a distance 5019 causes the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 to move a corresponding distance, thereby bringing the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 closer to the reference point 201. Consequently, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 also move closer to the reference point 201. The relative movement of the outer housing 4810 toward the coupler 4820 is achieved by the slidable sleeve 4812 being at least partially received within the coupler 5120 and then secured by the sheath lock 4806, as previously described.

[0340] Figures 52A to 57C FIG4 shows how the user interface 4801 moves the electrodes 207 and 211 according to manipulation of the user interface 4801. Figure 52A , with respect to user interface 4801, primary actuator 4832 extends from primary slider 4914 through first guide channel 4831 of outer housing 4810 and is positioned in first position 5233 within first guide channel 4831 (as shown in the cross-sectional view and top view taken along line AA). Accordingly, as shown in the inset, in the initial position, distal end 209 of primary electrode 207 remains positioned within distal end 105 of sheath 103, wherein distal end 105 of sheath 103 is positioned proximate to reference point 201. Distal end 213 of auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned within distal end 209 of primary electrode 207.

[0341] It should be noted that the auxiliary actuator 4952 and the intermediate guide channel 4933 are not yet exposed within the second guide channel 4851 in the outer housing 4810 and are therefore represented by dashed lines in the top view. It should be understood that manipulation of the outer housing 4810 and the primary actuator 4832 causes the auxiliary actuator 4952 and the intermediate guide channel 4934 to be positioned below the second guide channel 4851 in the outer housing 4810, where the auxiliary actuator 4952 can then be engaged by a user.

[0342] It should also be noted that the primary actuator 4832 can be fixedly coupled to the primary electrode slider 4914, and the auxiliary actuator 4952 can be fixedly coupled to the auxiliary electrode slider 4916. Thus, linear or rotational movement of the primary actuator 4832 results in corresponding movement of the primary electrode slider 4914, thereby moving the primary electrode 5207. Correspondingly, linear or rotational movement of the auxiliary actuator 4852 results in corresponding movement of the auxiliary electrode slider 4916, thereby moving the auxiliary electrode 211. Thus, it should be understood that movement of the primary actuator 4832 can be considered to cause movement of the primary electrode 207, and movement of the auxiliary actuator 4952 can be considered to cause movement of the auxiliary electrode 211, without explicitly describing the associated movement of the respective electrode sliders.

[0343] refer to Figures 53A to 53C , the primary actuator 4832 (extending through the first guide channel 4831 of the outer housing 4810 of the user interface 4801) has been moved by a user (not shown) to a second position 5335 within the first guide channel 4831, as shown in the cross-sectional view and the top view taken along line BB. The user can, for example, push the primary actuator 4832 forward to slide the primary actuator 4832 through the first guide channel 4831 to the second position 5335. Accordingly, as shown in the inset, in the second position, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 extends beyond the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 toward the reference point 201 within the target tissue 202. The distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207.

[0344] The auxiliary actuator 4952 (which extends through the intermediate guide slot 4934 of the primary electrode slider 4914 and the intermediate guide slot 4934 of the primary electrode slider 4914) is not yet exposed within the second guide slot 4851 in the outer housing 4810 and, therefore, continues to be indicated by the dashed lines in the top view. However, it should be understood that as the primary actuator 4832 moves to the second position 5335 in the first guide slot 4831, the intermediate guide slot 4934 becomes parallel to the second guide slot 4951 in the outer housing 4810. As shown in FIG. Figures 54A to 54C As described, relative rotation of the primary actuator 4832 through the first guide channel 4831 positions the auxiliary actuator 4952 and the intermediate guide channel 4934 below the second guide channel 4951 in the outer housing 4810, where the auxiliary actuator 4952 can then be engaged by a user.

[0345] refer to Figures 54A to 54C, the primary actuator 4832 (extending through the first guide channel 4831 of the outer housing 4810 of the user interface 4801) has been moved by a user (not shown) to a third position 5437 within the first guide channel 4831, as shown in the cross-sectional view and the top view taken along line CC. For example, the user can rotate the primary actuator 4832 laterally while holding the primary electrode slider 4914 and the auxiliary electrode slider 4916 rotationally stationary to slide the primary actuator 4832 within the first guide channel 4831 to the third position 5437. As shown in the inset, the relative positions of the electrodes 207 and 211 have not changed. The distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 remains extended beyond the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 near the reference point 201, as shown in FIG. Figure 53C Similarly, the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 .

[0346] However, as the primary actuator 4832 moves to the third position 5437, the auxiliary actuator 4952 extends through the middle guide slot 4934 of the primary electrode slider 4914 and now extends through the second guide slot 4851 in the outer housing 5810 of the user interface 4801. The middle guide slot 4934 in the primary electrode slider 4914 overlaps the second guide slot 4851 in the outer housing 4810. In this position, the auxiliary actuator 4952 is seated at the first position 5453 within the second guide slot 4851. The auxiliary actuator 4952 can now be engaged by the user to extend the auxiliary electrode 211, as described with reference to FIG. Figures 55A to 55C As stated.

[0347] refer to Figures 55A to 55C 56 , the auxiliary actuator 4952 extends through the first guide slot 4851 in the external housing 4810 of the user interface 4801 and moves from the first position 5453 to the second position 5555 in the second guide slot 4851. In the second position 5555, the auxiliary actuator 4952 is now located adjacent the slidable actuator lock 4859, the operation of which will be further described with reference to FIG56 . The primary actuator 4832 extends through the first guide slot 4831 of the external housing 4810 and is retained in the third position 5437 within the first guide slot 4831. For example, a user (not shown) can push the auxiliary actuator 4952 to move the auxiliary actuator 4952 from the first position 5453 to the second position 5555 in the second guide slot 4851.

[0348] As shown in the inset, as the auxiliary actuator 4952 moves, the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 extends beyond the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 to a position outside the reference point 201. The electrical insulator 515 electrically isolates all portions except the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 from the primary electrode 207. In contrast, as the movement of the primary actuator 4832 toward the reference point 201 is limited by the first guide slot 4831, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 remains in contact with the primary electrode 207. Figure 54C Same location as shown.

[0349] refer to Figures 56A to 56C , the auxiliary actuator 4952 extends through the middle guide slot 4934 in the primary electrode slider 4914 and is secured in place by a slidable actuator lock 4859. As previously described with reference to other embodiments of the user interface, once the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 is extended from the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 to a desired position relative to the reference point 201, it may be desirable to hold the auxiliary electrode 211 in place while the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is partially withdrawn. Because the auxiliary electrode 211 extends through the primary electrode 209, withdrawal of the primary electrode 209 can apply a force to the auxiliary electrode 211, potentially causing the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 to retract. However, the slidable actuator lock 4859 can help prevent the auxiliary actuator 4952 from moving within the second guide slot 4851, thereby helping to hold the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 in place.

[0350] The slidable actuator lock 4859 slides from the base 5669 across the second guide slot 4851 and engages the auxiliary actuator 4952 to prevent the auxiliary actuator 4952 from moving from the second position 5555 in the second guide slot 4851. Thus, when the primary actuator 4832 is engaged to position the primary electrode 207 as shown in FIG. Figures 57A to 57C Upon such retraction, the auxiliary actuator 4952, and therefore the auxiliary electrode 211, remains in place.

[0351] refer to Figures 57A to 57C, with the auxiliary actuator 4952 secured in the second position 5555 in the second guide channel 4851 by the slidable actuator lock 4859, the primary actuator 4832 is engaged by a user (not shown) to partially retract the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. Specifically, the primary actuator 4832 (extending from the primary slider 4914 through the first guide channel 4831 of the outer housing 4810 of the user interface 4801) has been moved by the user (not shown) to a fourth position 5739 within the first guide channel 4831, as shown in the top-down view and the cross-sectional view taken along line EE. The user can, for example, push the primary actuator 4832 to slide the primary actuator 4832 through the first guide channel 4831 to the fourth position 5739. As shown in the inset, the position of the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 remains unchanged relative to the reference point 201 because the auxiliary actuator 4952 is held in place at the second position 5555 in the second guide channel 4851 by the slidable actuator lock 4859. Figure 57C As shown, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 has been partially retracted to a position closer to the distal end 105 of the sheath 103. Thus, once the auxiliary electrode 211 has been extended and secured in position, the primary electrode 207 can be moved to position the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 relative to the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 to facilitate application of current to provide the desired therapy.

[0352] The following applies to removing the device. Because the primary actuator 4832 is in the fourth position 5739 in the first guide channel 4831, the primary electrode 207 cannot be retracted until the primary actuator 4832 moves to the third position 5437 within the first guide channel 4831, the slidable actuator lock 4859 unlocks the auxiliary actuator 4952, and the auxiliary actuator 4952 retracts to the first position 5453 within the second guide channel 4851. Therefore, when the auxiliary electrode 211 is in the extended position, inadvertent retraction of the primary electrode 207 cannot occur.

[0353] refer to Figure 58 In another embodiment, a user interface 5801 is provided for positioning the electrode delivered by the sheath at a desired location at or near a reference point ( Figure 58 (not shown in the figure). The user interface 5801 includes a sheath actuator 5804, a main housing 5830, an auxiliary housing 5850, and a locking rod 5870. As will be described in detail below, movement of the electrode is achieved by using the sheath actuator 5804 to position the sheath and set the position of the locking rod 5870, rotating the auxiliary housing 5850 along the curve 5823 about the axis 5821 of the user interface 5801, and sliding the main housing 5850 along the axis 5821. The main housing 5830 is mechanically fixed to the primary electrode ( Figure 58), so that sliding of the primary housing 5830 causes the primary electrode to slide. Similarly, the auxiliary housing 5850 is mechanically fixed to the auxiliary electrode ( Figure 58 (not shown) so that the sliding of the auxiliary housing 5850 causes the auxiliary electrode to slide. Figures 11 to 5 7, the user interface 5801 does not include an actuator or lever for manipulating the position of the electrodes. Instead, manipulation of the electrodes is performed by sliding and rotating the auxiliary housing 5850 and sliding the main housing 5830, as described further below.

[0354] refer to Figure 59 In certain embodiments, the coupler 5820 is configured to engage a port on an electrosurgical device, such as a bronchoscope, such as a reference Figure 1 7 and 8. The coupling 5820 slidably receives the main housing 5830 and the locking rod 5870. Once the sheath ( Figure 59 Not shown) relative to the reference point ( Figure 59 5806 can be used to secure the sheath in place and also to secure the position of the locking rod 5870 relative to a reference point. The primary housing 5830 and the locking rod 5870 can also be slidably and rotatably received within the auxiliary housing 5850. As described in detail below, sliding and rotation of the primary housing 5830 and the locking rod 5870 relative to the auxiliary housing 5850 controls the relative movement and fixation of the positions of the primary and auxiliary housings 5830, 5850, and thus the primary and auxiliary electrodes, respectively.

[0355] refer to Figure 60A and Figure 60B , the operation of the sheath actuator 5804 is described to explain the positioning of the sheath 105 and the locking rod 5870. As further described below, in the initial configuration, the sliding of the auxiliary housing 5850 also slides the main housing 5830. Therefore, the sliding of the auxiliary housing 5850 slides the main housing 5830 relative to the coupling 5820.

[0356] refer to Figure 61A and Figure 61B, the movement of the auxiliary housing 5850 through the distance 6019 causes the primary housing 5830 to advance through the distance 6019 into the coupler 5820. Accordingly, the sheath 103 is advanced into the body to move the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 toward the reference point 202. In this configuration, the movement of the auxiliary housing 5850 also causes the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 (which is disposed within the distal end 105 of the sheath 103) and the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 (which is disposed within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207) to advance toward the reference point accordingly. Once the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 reaches a desired position relative to the reference point 202, the sheath lock 5806 can be used to lock the sheath 103 in place. In certain embodiments, the sheath lock 5806 can also lock the position of the locking rod 5870, thereby fixing the reference position for positioning the primary housing 5830 and the auxiliary housing 5850, as will be further described below.

[0357] Figures 62 to 64C Components of the user interface 5801 are shown. Figure 62 , the locking rod 5870 includes a positioning portion 6271 and a locking portion 6273. The positioning portion 6271 can be received and fixed in the coupling 5820, for example, as previously described, to fix the position of the locking rod. The locking portion 6273 supports a plurality of outwardly extending teeth 6275, which are engaged by one or more inwardly facing teeth supported by the main housing 5830 and the auxiliary housing 5850, as further described below, to lock the position of the housing 5830 and the housing 5850 to prevent them from sliding along the locking rod 5870.

[0358] refer to Figure 63A , showing a first side of the main housing 5830. In certain embodiments, the main housing 5830 is generally cylindrical in shape to allow sliding and rotation within the chamber within the auxiliary housing 5850, as shown in FIG. Figures 64A to 70C The main housing 5830 includes an outwardly facing guide channel 6333 configured to receive a guide member ( Figure 63A 63). The engagement of the guide member with the guide slot 6333 controls the relative movement of the main housing 5830 and the auxiliary housing 5850, as further described below.

[0359] refer to Figure 63B, showing a second side of the main housing 5830. In a particular embodiment, the main housing 5830 includes a primary locking channel 6335 that is configured to receive the locking rod 5870. Within the primary locking channel 6335, one or more inwardly facing teeth 6337 are configured to engage teeth 6275 extending from the locking rod 5870 to prevent the main housing 5830 from sliding relative to the locking rod 5870 when the locking rod 5870 is received within the primary locking channel.

[0360] refer to Figure 63C , a cross-sectional view of the main housing 5830 shows the guide groove 6333 and the main locking channel 6335. Figure 64C At the point of the cross-sectional view of , the guide groove 6333 enables the guide member (not shown) to slide within the guide groove 6333, because, with reference to Figure 63A , where there are no lateral sides of the guide groove 6333 to prevent sliding of the guide member. The primary locking channel 6335 includes a groove configured to receive the locking rod 5870. It should be noted that the primary housing 5830 defines an open core 6334, and the primary electrode, auxiliary electrode, sheath or other device ( Figure 63C ) can extend through or be received in the open core.

[0361] refer to Figure 63D , another cross-sectional view of the main housing 5830 shows the guide groove 6333 and the main locking channel 6335. Figure 63D The guide groove 6333 enables the guide member (not shown) to rotate across the guide groove 6333, but with reference to Figure 63A , the adjacent lateral sides can prevent the sliding of the guide member. Within the primary locking channel 6335, when one or more teeth 6337 are received within the primary locking channel 6335, the one or more teeth extend to engage the teeth 6275 on the locking rod 5870 to prevent the main housing 5830 from sliding along the locking rod 5870.

[0362] refer to Figure 64A , shows a side view of the auxiliary housing 5850. As previously described, Figure 48 to Figure 5 In contrast to the embodiment of the user interface 4801 of FIG. 7 , the auxiliary housing 5850, which is an external housing, does not support levers, separate actuators, or openings through which these levers and separate actuators extend. Instead, the auxiliary housing 5850 is within the actuator or is itself the actuator that is engaged by the user to manipulate the position of the electrode ( Figure 64A). In the illustrated embodiment, the auxiliary housing 5850 is shown as having a cylindrical outer shape, but the auxiliary housing 5850 can support a knurled clamp or feature a different outer shape that is desirable for holding or manipulating a user interface.

[0363] refer to Figure 64B and Figure 64C , a cross-sectional view of the auxiliary housing 5850 shows an internal channel 6454 defined by inner walls 6452 that is configured to slidably and rotatably receive the main housing 5830. An auxiliary locking channel 6458 defined by auxiliary channel walls 6456 is configured to receive a locking bar 5870 that can slide within or move across the auxiliary locking channel 6458 by rotation of the auxiliary housing 5850 to selectively reposition the locking bar 5870, as described below.

[0364] The auxiliary channel 6458 includes three lobes that control the relative movement of the housing 5830 and the housing 5850 relative to the locking rod 5870, as described in detail with reference to Figures 65A to 65C, 66A to 66C, 67A to 67C, 68A to 68C, 69A to 69C, and 70A to 70C. When the locking rod 5870 is located in the first lobe 6461, the main housing 5830 and the auxiliary housing 5850 can slide freely relative to the locking rod 5870. When the locking rod 5870 is located in the second lobe 6463, the auxiliary channel wall 6456 presses against the locking rod 5870, causing the locking rod 5870 to engage the teeth 6337 in the primary locking channel 6335 of the main housing 5830, thereby preventing the main housing 5830 from sliding relative to the locking rod 5870. However, with the locking rod 5870 positioned in the second lobe 6463, the auxiliary housing 5850 remains free to slide relative to the locking rod 5870. In the third lobe 6465, one or more inwardly facing teeth 6459 are configured to engage outwardly facing teeth 6275 extending from the locking rod 5870. Thus, with the locking rod 5870 positioned in the third lobe 6465, the secondary housing 5850 is prevented from sliding relative to the locking rod 5870. However, when the locking rod 5870 is positioned in the third lobe 6465, the teeth 6337 in the primary locking channel 6335 of the primary housing 5830 no longer engage the locking rod 5870, and thus the primary housing 5830 is free to slide relative to the locking rod 5870.

[0365] Reference again Figure 64C , the inwardly extending guide member 6455 is configured to receive the reference Figure 63A and Figure 63C6333 of the primary housing 5830. The engagement of the guide member 6455 with the guide channel 6333 controls the relative movement of the primary housing 5830 and the auxiliary housing 5850, as further described below.

[0366] refer to Figure 65A , shows a side view of the user interface 5801 in an initial configuration for extending both the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211 ( Figure 65D ). Figures 65A to 70D 58 is used to illustrate how the movement of the user interface 5801 is used to control the position of the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 within the body. Specifically, the sliding and rotation of the external auxiliary housing 5850 and the sliding of the internal main housing 5830 position the electrodes 207 and 211 relative to the reference point 202. It should be noted that in Figure 65A 、 Figure 66A 、 Figure 67A 、 Figure 68A 、 Figure 69A and Figure 70A In the side view of the user interface 5801, the coupler 5820 and the auxiliary housing 5850 are shown in cross-section (indicated by dashed lines) to illustrate the relative movement of the main housing 5830 relative to the coupler 5820 and the auxiliary housing 5850. Figure 65A 、 Figure 66A 、 Figure 67A 、 Figure 68A 、 Figure 69A and Figure 70A In the view shown, the locking lever 5870 will be positioned behind the user interface and therefore not in the Figure 65A 、 Figure 66A 、 Figure 67A 、 Figure 68A 、 Figure 69A and Figure 70A However, the locking lever 5870 and its engagement with the primary housing 5830 and the auxiliary housing 5850 are shown in cross-section, such as Figure 65B and Figure 65C The movement of the electrodes 207 and 211 relative to the reference point is shown in the corresponding illustrations, such as Figure 65D shown.

[0367] Reference again Figure 65A In the initial configuration for extending the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211, the guide member 6455 is received in the first lateral guide section 6541 of the guide channel 6333 of the auxiliary housing 5850 ( Figure 65D). When the guide member 6455 of the auxiliary housing 5850 is engaged in the first lateral guide section 6541 of the guide groove 6333 of the main housing 5830, the housing 5830 and the housing 5850 can only be moved along the axis 5821 ( Figure 58 ) move in unison.

[0368] refer to Figure 65B and Figure 65C , when the guide member 6455 is located in the first lateral guide section 6541 of the guide slot 6333, the locking bar 5870 is received in the first lobe 6561 of the auxiliary locking channel 6458. When received in the first lobe 6561 of the auxiliary locking channel 6458, neither the teeth 6459 in the auxiliary locking channel 6458 of the auxiliary housing 5850 nor the teeth 6337 in the primary locking channel 6335 engage the locking bar 5870. Thus, both the main housing 5830 and the auxiliary housing 5850 are free to slide relative to the locking bar 5870, but, as previously described, the engagement of the guide member 6455 with the guide slot 6333 causes the main housing 5830 and the auxiliary housing 5850 to move in unison (i.e., simultaneously and through the same distance).

[0369] refer to Figure 66A , once the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 have extended into the reference point 201, a side view of the user interface 5801 is shown in a second configuration, as shown in FIG. Figure 66D As shown in reference Figure 65A As described above, the engagement of the guide member 6455 with the guide groove 6333 of the second housing 5850 causes the main housing 5830 and the auxiliary housing 5850 to move in unison through the distance 6691. Figure 66B and Figure 66C As shown, and as previously referenced Figure 65B and Figure 66C As explained, the locking rod 5870 is located in the first cam 6461 of the auxiliary locking channel 6456, where the locking rod does not engage with the teeth 6459 in the auxiliary locking channel 6458 of the auxiliary shell 5850 or the teeth 6337 in the main locking channel 6335, allowing the main shell 5830 and the auxiliary shell 5850 to slide freely relative to the locking rod 5870.

[0370] refer to Figure 67A , the auxiliary housing 5850 is rotated in the direction 6793 to move the guide member 6455 into the second section 6743 of the guide slot 6333. When the guide member 6455 is located in the second section 6743 of the guide slot 6333, the auxiliary housing 5850 is free to move relative to the main housing 5830. However, the guide slot 6333 prevents the guide member 6455 from rotating further in the direction 6793.

[0371] refer to Figure 67B and Figure 67C , it can be seen that rotation of the auxiliary housing 5850 causes the locking rod 5870 to move into the second lobe 6463 of the auxiliary locking channel 6458, wherein the auxiliary channel wall 6456 strikes the locking rod 5870, causing the locking rod 5870 to engage with the teeth 6337 in the primary locking channel 6335 of the main housing 5830, thereby preventing the main housing 5830 from sliding relative to the locking rod 5870. However, with the locking rod 5870 in the second lobe 6463, the auxiliary housing 5850 remains free to slide relative to the locking rod 5870. Figure 67D , it can be seen that the rotation of the auxiliary shell 5850 does not cause the movement of the electrode 207 and the electrode 211.

[0372] refer to Figure 68A , the auxiliary housing 5850 is slidably moved independently of the primary housing 5830 through the distance 6891 to extend the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 to the opposite side of the reference point 202 from the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. The guide member 5455 now extends into the third segment 6845 of the guide slot 6333, wherein the guide member 6455 is restricted from sliding further in the direction of the distance 6891, but is free to move across the guide slot 6333 to allow the auxiliary housing 5850 to rotate relative to the primary housing 5830.

[0373] refer to Figure 68B and Figure 68C , it can be seen that the locking rod 5870 is retained in the second lobe 6463 of the auxiliary locking channel 6458. As a result, the auxiliary channel wall 6456 continues to strike the locking rod 5870, causing the locking rod 5870 to engage the teeth 6337 in the primary locking channel 6335 of the main housing 5830, thereby continuing to prevent the main housing 5830 from sliding relative to the locking rod 5870. With the locking rod 5870 retained in the second lobe 6463, the auxiliary housing 5850 continues to slide freely relative to the locking rod 5870.

[0374] refer to Figure 69A , the auxiliary housing 5850 is rotated in direction 6993. The guide member 5455 now extends into the fourth section 6947 of the guide slot 6333, wherein the guide member 6455 is restricted from further rotation in direction 6993, but now allows relative sliding movement of the main housing 5830 relative to the auxiliary housing 5850.

[0375] refer to Figure 69B and Figure 69C, it can be seen that the locking rod 5870 moves into the third lobe 6465 of the auxiliary locking channel 6458. As a result, the locking rod 5870 no longer engages the teeth 6337 in the primary locking channel 6335 of the main housing 5830, allowing the main housing 5830 to slide relative to the locking rod 5870. However, as the auxiliary housing 5850 is rotated so that the locking rod 5870 is received into the third lobe 6465 of the auxiliary locking channel 6458, the teeth 6459 extending from the auxiliary housing 5850 now engage with the locking rod 5870, thereby preventing sliding movement of the auxiliary housing 5850 relative to the locking rod 5870. Figure 69D , it should be noted that rotation of the auxiliary housing 5850 again results in no movement of the electrodes 207 and 211.

[0376] refer to Figure 70A , the main shell 5830 moves through a distance 7091 to partially retract the main shell 5830 into the auxiliary shell 5850, thereby partially retracting the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 away from the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211, as shown Figure 70D As shown. The main housing 5830 is free to slide relative to the locking rod 5870. As previously referenced Figure 69B and Figure 69C As stated and Figure 70B and Figure 70C As shown, rotation of the auxiliary housing 5850 causes the locking rod 5870 to rotate into the third lobe 6465 of the auxiliary locking channel 6458 in the auxiliary housing 5850. Consequently, the locking rod 5870 moves away from and disengages the teeth 6337 in the primary locking channel 6355 of the primary housing 5830. With the locking rod 5870 positioned in the third lobe 6465 of the auxiliary locking channel 6458 of the auxiliary housing 5850, the locking rod 5870 engages the teeth 6459 in the third lobe 6465 of the auxiliary locking channel 6458 of the auxiliary housing 5850, thereby preventing the auxiliary housing 5850 from sliding relative to the locking rod 5870. Thus, once the auxiliary electrode 211 has been extended and secured in position, the primary electrode 207 can be moved to position the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 relative to the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 to facilitate application of current to provide the desired therapy.

[0377] It should be understood that reference Figures 62 to 70D The exemplary embodiment of the user interface described describes important details of the structure and operation of the user interface 5801, but has presented relatively simple manipulation, manipulating only the auxiliary housing 5850 to position the electrodes 207 and 211 until the main housing 5830 is retracted in a final step. In further detail, there is provided Figures 71A to 76B For reference Figures 62 to 70DThe operation of an embodiment of the user interface is described.

[0378] refer to Figure 71A , user interface 5801 is shown ready to deploy electrode 207 and electrode 211 near reference point 202. Figure 71B As shown, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is disposed inside the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 , and the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 is disposed inside the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 .

[0379] refer to Figure 72A , shows a user interface 5801, wherein the auxiliary housing 5850 and the main housing 5830 move along the direction 6691, as shown Figure 72B As shown, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 are simultaneously extended to the reference point 202, as previously described with reference to Figures 66A to 66D As stated.

[0380] refer to Figure 73A , shows the user interface 5801, wherein the auxiliary housing 5850 is rotated in the direction 6793, as shown Figure 73B As shown, the primary electrode 207 is fixed to prevent it from moving relative to the reference point 202. Thus, the primary electrode 207 is fixed in place while the auxiliary housing 5850 remains free to slide, as previously described with reference to Figures 67A to 67D As stated.

[0381] refer to Figure 74A , shows a user interface 5801, wherein the auxiliary housing 5850 moves along the direction 6891, as shown Figure 74B As shown, the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 extends across the reference point 202, as previously described with reference to Figures 68A to 68D As stated.

[0382] refer to Figure 75A , shows a user interface 5801, wherein the auxiliary housing 5810 is rotated in direction 6993, as shown Figure 75B As shown, the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 is fixed in place across the reference point 202 while preparing for partial retraction of the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207, as previously described with reference to FIG. Figures 69A to 69D As stated.

[0383] refer to Figure 76A , shows a user interface 5801, wherein the main housing 5830 moves along the direction 7091, as previously referenced Figures 70A to 70D As described above, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is partially retracted. Figure 76BAs shown, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is thus partially withdrawn from the reference point 202 while retaining the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 in place, thereby preparing the electrodes 207 and 211 for administration of the therapy.

[0384] refer to Figure 77 An exemplary method 7700 for positioning electrodes for treatment is provided. Method 7700 begins at block 7705. At block 7710, a sheath housing a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode is extended, wherein the auxiliary electrode is housed within the primary electrode and initially coupled for movement with the primary electrode, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG8 , FIG51 , and FIG61 . At block 7720, the primary electrode is moved to a first position near a reference point, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG14 , FIG38 , FIG53 , and FIG64 . At block 7730, the primary electrode is locked in place at the first position, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG14 , FIG38 , FIG54 , and FIG65 . At block 7740, movement of the auxiliary electrode (independent of the primary electrode) is unlocked, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG19 , FIG44 , FIG54 , and FIG65 . At block 7750, the auxiliary electrode is moved to a second position near the reference point, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG20 , FIG45 , FIG55 , and FIG66 . At block 7760, the auxiliary electrode is locked in position at the second position, as previously described, for example, with reference to Figure 26 46, 55, and 68. Method 7700 ends at block 7765, where the electrodes are now positioned for applying therapy.

[0385] refer to Figure 78 , an exemplary method 7800 for positioning electrodes for treatment is provided. The method 7800 involves the use of a user interface, as previously described, for example, with reference to Figure 11 to Figure 3 4.

[0386] Method 7800 begins at block 7805. At block 7810, a sheath is extended toward a reference point, the sheath housing a primary electrode that is mechanically coupled to a primary actuator and selectively lockable by a primary release, and an auxiliary electrode that is mechanically coupled to an auxiliary actuator and lockable by an auxiliary release, wherein the auxiliary electrode is slidably received within the primary electrode. At block 7820, the primary release is activated to allow movement of the primary actuator, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG13. At block 7830, the primary actuator is moved to move the primary electrode to a first position relative to the reference point, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG13. At block 7840, the primary release is locked to lock the primary actuator to maintain the primary electrode in the first position, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG14.

[0387] At block 7850, the auxiliary release is activated to disengage the auxiliary actuator from the primary actuator to allow movement of the auxiliary actuator independently of the primary actuator, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG19. At block 7860, the auxiliary actuator is moved to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position relative to the reference point, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG20. At block 7870, the auxiliary release is locked to lock the auxiliary actuator to hold the auxiliary electrode in the second position, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG20. The method 7800 ends at block 7875, where the electrode is now positioned for application of therapy.

[0388] refer to Figure 79 , an exemplary method 7900 for positioning electrodes for treatment is provided. The method 7900 involves the use of a user interface, as previously described, for example, with reference to Figure 35 to Figure 4 7.

[0389] Method 7900 begins at block 7905. At block 7910, a sheath is extended, wherein the sheath houses a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode, the primary electrode being mechanically coupled to the housing and selectively lockable by a latch, and the auxiliary electrode being mechanically coupled to the auxiliary actuator and lockable by an interlock lever, wherein the auxiliary electrode is slidably received within the primary electrode. At block 7920, the latch is released to enable the housing to move the primary electrode relative to a reference point, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG38. At block 7930, the housing is slid to move the primary electrode relative to the reference point to a first position, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG38. At block 7940, the latch is secured to prevent movement of the housing relative to the cannula, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG38. At block 7950, the interlock lever is moved through a series of positions in a guide slot on the housing to decouple the auxiliary electrode from the primary electrode and move the auxiliary electrode to a second position relative to the reference point, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG44-46. Method 7900 ends at box 7955, where the electrodes are now positioned for applying therapy.

[0390] refer to Figure 80 , an exemplary method 8000 for positioning electrodes for treatment is provided. The method 8000 involves the use of a user interface, as previously described, for example, with reference to Figure 48 to Figure 5 7.

[0391] The method 8000 starts at block 8005. At block 8010, a sheath is extended, wherein the sheath houses a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode slidably received within the primary electrode, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG.

[0392] At box 8020, an apparatus is deployed that is coupled to the primary electrode and the auxiliary electrode. The apparatus includes an auxiliary electrode slider that is mechanically coupled to the auxiliary electrode and supports the auxiliary actuator. The apparatus also includes a primary electrode slider that is mechanically coupled to the primary electrode and supports the primary actuator and further defines an intermediate guide channel that is configured to receive and engage the auxiliary actuator. The apparatus also includes an outer housing having a first end, wherein the outer housing defines a primary guide channel and an auxiliary guide channel that is configured to receive and engage the primary actuator and the auxiliary guide channel that is configured to receive the auxiliary actuator when the auxiliary actuator is positioned below the auxiliary guide channel, as previously described, for example, with reference Figure 48 to Figure 5 7.

[0393] At block 8030, the primary actuator is moved toward the front end of the outer housing to position the primary electrode in a first position relative to a reference point, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG53. At block 8040, the outer housing is rotated to expose the intermediate guide channel beneath the second guide channel, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG54. At block 8050, the auxiliary actuator is moved toward the front end of the outer housing to position the auxiliary electrode in a second position relative to a reference point, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG55. Method 8000 ends at block 8055, where the electrode is now positioned for application of therapy.

[0394] refer to Figure 81 , an exemplary method 8100 for positioning electrodes for treatment is provided. The method 8100 involves the use of a user interface, as previously described, for example, with reference to Figure 58 As described in Figure 76.

[0395] The method 8100 begins at block 8105. At block 8010, a sheath is extended, wherein the sheath houses a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode slidably received within the primary electrode, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG.

[0396] At box 8120, a device is deployed that is coupled to the primary electrode and the auxiliary electrode. The device includes an auxiliary electrode slider that is mechanically coupled to the auxiliary electrode and supports the auxiliary actuator. The device includes a locking rod that is configured to be fixed in place relative to a reference point. The device also includes a main housing that is mechanically coupled to the primary electrode. The main housing also includes an outward-facing guide groove and a primary locking channel, the outward-facing guide groove being configured to selectively limit and allow sliding movement of the guide member, the primary locking channel being configured to rotatably receive the locking rod to prevent sliding movement of the main housing relative to the locking rod. The device also includes an auxiliary housing that is mechanically coupled to the auxiliary electrode. The auxiliary housing also includes an internal channel that is configured to slidably and rotatably receive the main housing and support the guide member. The auxiliary housing also includes an auxiliary locking channel that is configured to selectively fixably engage or slidably engage the locking rod.

[0397] At block 8130, the auxiliary housing continuously slides and rotates to move the auxiliary housing and the primary housing to move the primary and auxiliary electrodes to the appropriate positions relative to the reference point, and slides the primary housing to move the primary electrode, as previously described, for example with reference to Figure 65A 76. Method 8000 ends at block 8035, where the electrodes are now positioned for application of therapy.

[0398] refer to Figure 82 , another embodiment of a user interface 8201 for positioning an electrode is shown. The user interface 8201 includes components that move parallel to an axis 8221 or rotate along a curve 8223 about the axis 8221, as described further below. As also described further below, the user interface 8201 is typically controlled by moving an actuator, such as a primary actuator 8232, by engaging a primary actuator clamp 8235 through a first access opening 8211 defined in the outer housing 8210. The primary actuator 8232 is moved along the axis 8221 by engaging and manipulating the primary actuator clamp 8235 and sliding the primary actuator clamp 8235 along the axis 8221 toward the first end 8241 of the housing 8210. The primary actuator 8232 slides along a shaft 8233 that extends along the axis 8221. The shaft 8233 can be coupled to the outer housing 8210 at a base 8234. The shaft 8233 is hollow to receive the electrode and allow the electrode (not in Figure 82 As further described below, once the primary actuator 8232 is moved to a position where the primary electrode extends, the primary actuator 8232 can be rotated about axis 8221 to provide control of the auxiliary actuator (not shown). Figure 82By covering the auxiliary electrode actuator, the main actuator 8232 prevents the auxiliary electrode actuator from being moved to extend the auxiliary electrode before it is desired to do so. The structure and operation of these components are further described below.

[0399] The user interface 8201 includes a coupler 8220 for engaging a port on an electrosurgical device, such as a bronchoscope, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 , as described in FIG7 and FIG8. The user interface 8201 also includes a positioning sheath (not shown in FIG8). Figure 82 ) of the sheath actuator 8204, as previously described with reference to FIG. Figure 11 The sheath actuator 8204 includes a slidable sleeve 8212 and a sheath lock 8206 for engaging and securing the slidable sleeve 8212 in position at the first end 8241 of the housing 8210 of the user interface 8201, as further described below. It should be understood that, as described with reference to another embodiment of the user interface 3501, Figure 35 As described, the sheath actuator may be a part of the bronchoscope or a separate device (not shown) inserted between the user interface 8201 and the bronchoscope. Figure 82 ). Thus, the sheath actuator 8204 may not be part of the user interface 8201. Also, although not shown in Figure 82 As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 11 In the embodiment shown in , leads from a switchable current source are received at the user interface 8201 , and a sheath housing the primary and auxiliary electrodes extends from the user interface 8201 via a connector 8220 .

[0400] refer to Figure 83 , Figure 82 The user interface 8201 includes multiple components, including an outer housing 8210, a primary actuator 8232, a shaft 8233, a secondary actuator 8352, and components of a sheath actuator 8204, which includes a slidable sleeve 8212, a sheath lock 8206, and a coupler 8220. As previously described, a first access opening 8211 defined in the outer housing 8210 allows access to the primary actuator 8232 and the secondary actuator 8352, the operation of which will be further described below.

[0401] The primary actuator 8232, which can be manipulated by a user engaging the primary actuator clamp 8235, slides along an axis 8233 that terminates at a base 8234 that can be fixed to the outer housing 8210, as described below with reference to Figure 85A and Figure 85B Further described. The main actuator 8232 and the main electrode (not shown) Figure 838232) can be fixedly engaged so that movement of the primary actuator 8232 moves the primary electrode. The primary electrode can slide through the shaft 8233 along which the primary actuator 8232 slides. In some embodiments, the shaft 8233 includes a channel 8334 that receives a locking stud 8336 that is configured to compressibly extend inwardly from the primary actuator 8232 toward the shaft 8233. Upon moving the primary actuator 8232 to move the primary electrode (not shown in FIG. 8232), the primary electrode 8232 can be fixedly engaged. Figure 83 8221) is placed in a desired position, the engagement of the locking stud 8336 with the channel 8334 can secure the primary actuator 8232 in position along the axis 8221 relative to the shaft 8233. In some embodiments, the locking stud 8336 can be released from the channel 8334 by applying an additional force on the primary actuator 8232 along the axis 8221 that exceeds the force required to slide the primary actuator 8232 along the shaft 8233 when the locking stud 8336 is not engaged with the channel 8334.

[0402] Auxiliary actuator 8352 and auxiliary electrode (not in Figure 83 8233. The auxiliary actuator 8352 includes an auxiliary actuator clamp 8355 that enables a user to slide and / or rotate the auxiliary actuator 8352 as further described below. The auxiliary actuator 8352 is configured to slide relative to the primary actuator 8232 as the primary actuator 8232 slides along the axis 8233. The auxiliary actuator 8352 can slide along the primary actuator 8232 along the axis 8221 and / or rotate along the curve 8232 about the axis 8221. As further described below, the auxiliary actuator 8352 defines a second access opening 8356 such that after rotating the auxiliary actuator 8352, the user can engage the primary actuator 8232 through the second access opening 8355. Prior to rotating it, the auxiliary actuator 8352 can therefore be used as a covering device to prevent access to the primary actuator 8232 when positioning the auxiliary actuator 8352, thereby helping the user to follow the desired sequence of moving the electrodes, as further described below.

[0403] refer to Figure 84A In various embodiments, there may be a single first access opening 8211 on one side of the outer housing 8210, or there may be multiple first access openings 8211 at two or more locations around the perimeter of the outer housing 8201. For example, Figure 84A The outer housing 8410 includes two first access openings 8211 on opposite sides of the outer housing 8410 .

[0404] refer to Figure 84BIn various embodiments, the outer housing is generally hollow to receive the shaft 8233, the active actuator 8232, and the auxiliary actuator 8352. Figure 84B As shown, the plurality of tabs 8413 are configured to engage recesses in the base 8335 of the shaft 8233, as described below with reference to Figure 85A and Figure 85B Further described in Reference Figure 84C In various embodiments, the first access opening 8211 is defined by the outer housing 8210 .

[0405] refer to Figure 85A , compared to Figure 83 , the shaft 8233 and its base 8335 are shown in greater detail. A channel 8334 (along the shaft 8233) receives a locking stud 8336 (not shown). Figure 85A ), wherein the locking stud is released from the primary actuator 8232 (also not shown in Figure 85A The complementary recess 8515 is sized and positioned to receive the tab 8413 (shown in FIG. Figure 84B ). The shaft 8233 defines a channel 8517 through which electrodes (not shown) coupled to the primary actuator 8232 and the auxiliary actuator 8352 can slide.

[0406] refer to Figure 86A , the primary actuator 8232 supports a primary actuator clamp 8235 and a locking stud 8336, which is configured to engage a channel 8334 of the shaft 8233 ( Figure 82 、 Figure 83 and Figure 85A ). refer to Figure 86B In various embodiments, a plurality of primary actuator clamps 8235 can extend from the primary actuator 8232. Figure 86A In the example of FIG, two primary actuator clamps 8235 extend from opposite sides of the primary actuator 8232. For example, if two first access openings 8211 (such as Figure 84A and Figure 84C ) and having two second access openings 8356 defined in opposite sides of the auxiliary actuator 8352, then having two primary actuator clamps 8235 extending from opposite sides of the primary actuator 8232 will allow the user to manipulate the primary actuator from both sides of the user interface.

[0407] Also refer to Figure 86B , the primary actuator 8232 may further include a groove 8611 configured to receive a guide protrusion extending inwardly from the secondary actuator 8352, as further described below. Figure 86CIn some embodiments, grooves 8611 can be formed in two opposing sides of the primary actuator 8232, as shown. In various embodiments, locking studs 8336 extend inwardly from the primary actuator 8232 into a primary actuator channel 8619 that is configured to enable the primary actuator 8232 to slide along the shaft 8233.

[0408] refer to Figure 87A , which shows a detailed view of the auxiliary actuator 8352. The auxiliary actuator 8352 includes an auxiliary actuator clamp 8355 and, in the example shown, a pair of second access openings 8356. Figure 87B In various embodiments, a plurality of auxiliary actuator clamps 8355 can extend from the auxiliary actuator 8352. Figure 87B In the example of FIG, two auxiliary actuator clamps 8355 extend from opposite sides of the auxiliary actuator 8352. For example, if there are two first access openings 8211 (such as Figure 84A ), having two auxiliary actuator clamps 8355 extending from opposite sides of the auxiliary actuator 8352 will allow the user to manipulate the auxiliary actuator 8352 from both sides of the user interface. Accordingly, a pair of second access openings 8356 are defined in the auxiliary actuator 8352, which, for example, enable the user to engage the pair of primary actuator clamps 8235 through the pair of second access openings 8356.

[0409] refer to Figure 87C In various embodiments, the auxiliary actuator 8352 can further include a tab 8757 extending inwardly into the hollow channel 8719 of the auxiliary actuator 8352. The tab is configured to slidably engage the groove 8611 in the primary actuator 8232. It should be understood that the groove 8611 in the primary actuator 8432 extends only a portion of the length of the primary actuator 8432. Thus, with the tab 8757 on the auxiliary actuator 8352 received in the groove 8611 on the primary actuator 8232, when the tab 8757 is located at the closed end 8612 of the groove 8611, movement of the primary actuator 8232 toward the open end 8613 of the groove 8611 can cause the auxiliary actuator 8352 to move with the primary actuator 8232. Thus, engagement of the tab 8757 with the groove 8611 can cause the primary actuator 8232 to cause the auxiliary actuator 8352 to move in unison with the primary actuator 8232, and thus cause the auxiliary electrode to move in unison with the primary electrode, as described below with reference to Figure 90A Further described.

[0410] refer to Figure 87DIn various embodiments, the auxiliary actuator clamp 8355 extends from a side of the auxiliary actuator 8352 at a ninety degree offset from the second access opening 8356 formed in the auxiliary actuator 8532.

[0411] refer to Figure 88A 、 Figure 88B 、 Figure 89A and Figure 89A , depicting the operation of the sheath actuator 8204. As previously described, the operation of the sheath actuator 8204 of the user interface 8201 is similar to Figure 50A 、 Figure 50B 、 Figure 51A and Figure 51B Operation of the sheath actuator 4804 of the user interface 4801. Reference Figure 88A and Figure 88B And when used in conjunction with the user interface 8201, the sheath actuator 8204 controls the position of the sheath 103. Specifically, the position of the sheath 103 is controlled by sliding the slidable sleeve 8212 within the coupling 8220 and securing the sheath 103 in the desired position by securing the slidable sleeve 8212 with the sheath lock 8206. As previously described, the sheath actuator 8204 can be used with Figure 9 The sheath lock 8206 is operated in a similar manner to the sheath lock 706 of the embodiment of the present invention. The slidable sleeve 8212 can be fixedly mounted to the outer housing 8210 and slidably received within the coupler 8220. When the slidable sleeve 8212 is positioned to position the sheath 103 containing the electrodes 207 and 211 at the desired position, the sheath lock 8206 is locked to secure the slidable sleeve 8212 in place. The sheath lock 8206 can be a spring-loaded lock, a thumbscrew, or a spring-loaded lock as previously described with reference to FIG. Figure 10 Other similar mechanisms are described to secure the slidable sleeve 8212 in place, thereby fixing the position of the sheath 103.

[0412] As previously mentioned and as Figure 88B As shown, in the exemplary embodiment, the auxiliary electrode 211 is received within the primary electrode, with the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 initially positioned just within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. Subsequently, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is positioned just within the distal end 105 of the sheath 103. The distal end of the sheath 103 may initially be positioned away from or immediately adjacent to the reference point 201 before the sheath actuator 8204 is used to position the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 near the reference point 201.

[0413] refer to Figure 89A and Figure 89B And when used in conjunction with the user interface 8201, the sheath actuator 8204 is used to move the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 to a position such as Figure 89B8919 toward the connector 8220 causes the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 to move a corresponding distance, thereby bringing the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 closer to the reference point 201. Subsequently, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 also move closer to the reference point 201. The relative movement of the outer housing 8210 toward the connector 8220 is achieved by at least partially receiving the slidable sleeve 8212 within the connector 8220 and then securing it with the sheath lock 8206, as previously described. Figure 89B As shown, distal end 209 of primary electrode 207 remains positioned within distal end 105 of sheath 103, which has been positioned proximate reference point 201. Distal end 213 of auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned within distal end 209 of primary electrode 207.

[0414] Figure 90A 、 Figure 90B 、 Figure 91A and Figure 91B FIG2 shows how the user interface 8201 moves the electrodes 207 and 211 based on manipulation of the user interface 8201. Figure 90A , such as by a user engaging the primary actuator clamp 8235 and sliding it in direction 9023, so that the primary actuator 8232 advances toward the first end 8241 of the outer housing 8210. As previously described with reference Figure 87C As shown, the tab 8757 on the auxiliary actuator 8352 engages the groove 8611 on the primary actuator 8232. Thus, movement of the primary actuator 8232 toward the first end 8241 of the outer housing 8210 also advances the auxiliary actuator 8352, as shown in FIG. Figure 90A Thus, following extension of the primary electrode caused by movement of the primary actuator 8232, the auxiliary actuator 8352 is pulled into the first access opening 8211 where the auxiliary actuator clamp 8355 can be engaged by a user to move the auxiliary actuator 8352. The outer housing 8210 thus covers the auxiliary actuator 8352 until the primary actuator 8232 is moved to a position suitable for movement of the auxiliary actuator 8352. Additionally, in some embodiments, once the primary actuator 8232 has moved forward, the locking stud 8333 engages the channel 8334 in the shaft 8333 (not in the Figure 90A ), thereby holding the primary actuator 8232 (and primary electrode) in place.

[0415] refer to Figure 90B , Figure 90AThe movement of the primary actuator 8232 shown in FIG and the coordinated movement of the auxiliary actuator 8352 cause the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211 to move in unison, with the distal ends 209 and 213 each moving in unison beyond the distal end 105 of the sheath 103. Figure 90B In the example of FIG. 2 , the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211 housed therein penetrate the target tissue 202 near the reference point 201 .

[0416] refer to Figure 91A , the auxiliary actuator 8352 advances in direction 9123 toward the first end 8241 of the outer housing 8210. The auxiliary actuator 8352 passes the primary actuator 8232 within the outer housing 8210. As will be reviewed, the engagement of the tab 8757 with the groove 8611 on the primary actuator 8232 causes Figure 90A 8232 is shown moving forward to pull the auxiliary actuator 8352 forward in unison. However, because the tab 8757 in the auxiliary actuator is independently movable within the recess 8611 toward the open end 8613, the auxiliary actuator 8352 can move toward the first end 8241 of the outer housing 8210 independently of the primary actuator 8232.

[0417] refer to Figure 91B , movement of the auxiliary actuator 8352 causes the auxiliary electrode 211 to move independently of the primary electrode 207. As previously described, when the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 extends beyond the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207, the auxiliary electrode coils, thereby spiraling into the target tissue 202.

[0418] refer to Figure 92A , since the auxiliary electrode 211 ( Figure 91B ) has been extended, the auxiliary actuator 8352 can be manipulated to uncover the primary actuator 8232, thereby enabling further manipulation of the primary actuator 8232 and, therefore, the primary electrode 207. As the auxiliary actuator 8352 advances, the tab 8757 (which extends inwardly from the auxiliary actuator 8352) emerges from the groove 8611 on the primary actuator 8232, thereby allowing the auxiliary actuator 8352 to rotate relative to the primary actuator 8232, as shown. Figure 92A The auxiliary actuator 8352 rotates along the curve 9223 to reveal a second access opening 8355 defined by the auxiliary actuator 8232 and expose the primary actuator 8232 and the primary actuator clamp 8235 .

[0419] refer to Figure 92B, rotation of the auxiliary electrode actuator 8352 does not move the primary electrode 207 or the auxiliary electrode 211. Rotation of the auxiliary actuator 8352 simply prepares the user interface 8201 for the next step in positioning 207 and electrode 211. Rotation of the auxiliary actuator 8352 exposes the primary actuator 8232 for its next movement.

[0420] refer to Figure 93A , the primary actuator 8232 moves in direction 9323 away from the first end 8241 of the outer housing 8210 to partially retract the primary electrode 207. A user may engage the primary actuator clamp 8235 through the second access opening 8355 to manipulate the primary actuator 8232. It may be necessary to apply a certain amount of additional force to the primary actuator clamp 8235 to engage the locking stud (not in the Figure 93A ) is withdrawn from channel 8334 in shaft 8333, thereby enabling the main actuator 8232 to move over shaft 8333.

[0421] refer to Figure 93B , movement of the primary actuator 8232 partially retracts the primary electrode 207 without commensurate movement of the auxiliary electrode 211. Thus, the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 remains coiled in the target tissue 202, wherein the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 is located at the reference Figure 91A and Figure 91B However, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 moves away from the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211, which exposes the insulating portion 215 of the primary electrode 211 and forms two electrically isolated contacts with the distal ends 209 and 213 of the electrodes 207 and 211 separated by the insulator 215.

[0422] refer to Figure 94 , another embodiment of a user interface 9401 for positioning an electrode is shown. The user interface 9401 includes components that move parallel to an axis 9421 or rotate along a curve 9423 about the axis 9421, as further described below. Still as further described below, the user interface 9401 is typically controlled by moving an actuator (such as a primary actuator 9432) by engaging a primary actuator clamp 9435 extending from a first channel 9431 defined in the outer housing 9410. The primary actuator 9432 can be moved along the axis 9421 by engaging and manipulating the primary actuator clamp 9435 and sliding the primary actuator clamp 9435 along the axis 9421 toward the first end 9441 of the housing 9410. As further described below, once the primary actuator 9432 is moved to a position to which the primary electrode extends, the primary actuator 9432 can be rotated about the axis 9421 to provide control of the auxiliary actuator (not shown). Figure 94 By covering the auxiliary electrode actuator, the outer housing 9410 prevents the auxiliary electrode actuator from being moved to extend the auxiliary electrode before it is desired to do so. The structure and operation of these components are further described below.

[0423] The user interface 9401 includes a coupler 9420 for engaging a port on an electrosurgical device, such as a bronchoscope, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 , as described in FIG7 and FIG8. The user interface 9401 also includes a positioning sheath (not shown in FIG9). Figure 94 ) of the sheath actuator 9404, as previously described with reference to FIG. Figure 11 The sheath actuator 9404 includes a slidable sleeve 9412 and a sheath lock 9406 for engaging and securing the slidable sleeve 9412 in position at the first end 9441 of the housing 9410 of the user interface 9401, as further described below. It should be understood that, as described with reference to another embodiment of the user interface 3501, Figure 35 As described, the sheath actuator may be part of the bronchoscope or a separate device (not shown) inserted between the user interface 9401 and the bronchoscope. Figure 94 ). Thus, the sheath actuator 9404 may not be part of the user interface 9401. Also, although not shown in Figure 94 As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 11 In the embodiment shown in , leads from a switchable current source are received at the user interface 9401 , and a sheath (housing the primary and auxiliary electrodes) extends from the user interface 9401 via a connector 9420 .

[0424] See also Figure 95 , the user interface 9401 includes multiple components including an outer housing 9410, a primary actuator 9432, an auxiliary actuator 9552, and components of a sheath actuator 9404 including a slidable sleeve 9412, a sheath lock 9406, and a coupler 9420. When the primary actuator 9432 has been positioned as desired, movement of the primary actuator 9432 provides access to the auxiliary actuator 9552 and the auxiliary actuator clamp 9555.

[0425] The primary actuator 9432, which can be manipulated by a user engaging the primary actuator grip 9435, slides and rotates within the outer housing 9410, as described below with reference to Figure 99A and Figure 100A Further described. The main actuator 9432 and the main electrode (not shown) Figure 95) can be fixedly engaged so that movement of the primary actuator 9432 causes movement of the primary electrode. The auxiliary actuator 9552 is connected to the auxiliary electrode (not shown) Figure 95 ) can be fixedly engaged and cause the auxiliary electrode to move. The auxiliary actuator 9552 includes an auxiliary actuator clamp 9555 that enables a user to slide the auxiliary actuator 9552, as further described below.

[0426] The auxiliary actuator clamp 9555 moves within the second channel 9531 in the primary actuator 9432. Thus, and as will be described further below, only when the primary actuator 9432 has been moved to position the primary electrode at a desired position can the primary actuator 9432 be moved further to expose the second channel 9531 and the auxiliary actuator clamp 9555. Thus, the auxiliary actuator 9552 can be moved only when the primary actuator 9432 has been moved to a prerequisite position, with the outer housing 9410 covering the auxiliary electrode actuator 9532, until the aforementioned steps performed with the primary actuator 9432 are first completed.

[0427] refer to Figure 96A 、 Figure 96B 、 Figure 97A and Figure 97B , depicting the operation of the sheath actuator 9404. As previously described, the operation of the sheath actuator 9404 of the user interface 9401 is very similar to Figure 88A 、 Figure 89A 、 Figure 90A and Figure 90B Operation of the sheath actuator 8204 and other sheath actuators of the user interface 8201. Figure 96A and Figure 96B And when used in conjunction with the user interface 9401, the sheath actuator 9404 controls the position of the sheath 103. Specifically, the position of the sheath 103 is controlled by sliding the slidable sleeve 9412 within the coupling 9420 and securing the sheath 103 in the desired position by securing the slidable sleeve 9412 with the sheath lock 9406. As previously described, the sheath actuator 9404 can be used with Figure 9 The sheath lock 9406 is operated in a similar manner to the sheath lock 706 of the embodiment of the present invention. The slidable sleeve 9412 can be fixedly mounted to the outer housing 9410 and slidably received within the coupler 9420. When the slidable sleeve 9412 is positioned to position the sheath 103 containing the electrodes 207 and 211 at the desired position, the sheath lock 9406 is locked to secure the slidable sleeve 9412 in place. The sheath lock 9406 can be a spring-loaded lock, a thumbscrew, or a spring-loaded lock as previously described with reference to FIG. Figure 10 Other similar mechanisms are described to secure the slidable sleeve 9412 in place, thereby fixing the position of the sheath 103.

[0428] As previously mentioned and as Figure 96B As shown, in the exemplary embodiment, the auxiliary electrode 211 is received within the primary electrode, with the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 initially positioned just within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. Subsequently, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is positioned just within the distal end 105 of the sheath 103. The distal end of the sheath 103 may initially be positioned away from or immediately adjacent to the reference point 201 before the sheath actuator 8204 is used to position the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 near the reference point 201.

[0429] refer to Figure 97A and Figure 97B And when used in conjunction with the user interface 9401, the sheath actuator 9404 is used to move the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 to a position such as Figure 97B 9719 toward the connector 9420 causes the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 to move a corresponding distance, thereby bringing the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 closer to the reference point 201. Subsequently, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 also move closer to the reference point 201. The relative movement of the outer housing 9410 toward the connector 9420 is achieved by at least partially receiving the slidable sleeve 9412 within the connector 9420 and then securing it with the sheath lock 9406, as previously described. Figure 97B As shown, distal end 209 of primary electrode 207 remains positioned within distal end 105 of sheath 103, which has been positioned proximate reference point 201. Distal end 213 of auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned within distal end 209 of primary electrode 207.

[0430] Figures 98A to 101C FIG4 shows how the user interface 9401 moves the electrodes 207 and 211 based on manipulation of the user interface 4801. Figure 98A , the primary actuator clamp 9435 extends upward from the primary actuator 9432 through the first channel 9431 of the outer housing 9410 and is positioned at an initial position at the rear end 9801 within the first channel 9431. Figure 98B , the primary actuator holder 9435 extends from the primary actuator 9432 through the first channel 9431 in the outer housing 9410. In cross section, the secondary channel 9531 remains covered by the outer housing 9410. In addition, when the primary actuator 9432 is in the initial position, as shown in FIG. Figure 98CAs shown, distal end 209 of primary electrode 207 remains positioned within distal end 105 of sheath 103, which has been positioned proximate reference point 201. Distal end 213 of auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned within distal end 209 of primary electrode 207.

[0431] refer to Figure 99A , such as by a user engaging the primary electrode clamp 9435 and sliding it toward the first end 9441 of the outer housing 9410, the primary actuator 9432 moves to extend the primary electrode 207. Figure 99B , the primary actuator clamp 9435 extends from the primary actuator 9432 through the first passage 9431 in the outer housing 9410. In addition, as Figure 98B As shown in , the auxiliary channel 9531 remains covered by the outer shell 9410.

[0432] refer to Figure 99C , the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 extends beyond the distal end 105 of the sheath 103, wherein the distal end 209 pierces the target tissue 202 near the reference point 201. The distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. The auxiliary electrode 211 moves with the primary electrode 207 because, as Figure 100A As shown, the auxiliary actuator clamp 9555 is initially located at the rear end 9557 ( Figure 95 ). Thus, movement of the primary actuator 9432 toward the first end 9441 of the outer housing 9410 also causes the auxiliary actuator 9552 to move toward the first end 9441 of the outer housing 9410. This concerted movement of the primary actuator 9432 and the auxiliary actuator 9552 causes the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211 to move in unison.

[0433] refer to Figure 100A , the primary actuator 9432 rotates along curve 10023. The movement of the primary actuator 9432 relative to the outer housing 9410 exposes the auxiliary actuator clamp 9555 and the auxiliary channel 9531 in the primary actuator 9432. As previously described, the auxiliary actuator clamp 9555 is located at the rear edge 9557 of the auxiliary channel 9531 so that the auxiliary actuator 9555 is extended. Figure 99A and Figure 99C The sliding movement of the primary actuator 9432 by the primary electrode 207 also causes the sliding movement of the auxiliary electrode 211. Figure 99C In the extended state, the auxiliary actuator holder 9555 is exposed so that the auxiliary electrode 211 can be extended separately, as described below with reference to Figures 101A to 101C Further described.

[0434] refer to Figure 100B , the primary actuator grip 9435 has moved through the first channel 9431 and the secondary channel 9531 (which is defined by the primary actuator 9432 and exposed by the movement of the primary actuator 9432 relative to the outer housing 9410). Figure 100C , the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 Figure 99C The distal ends 209 and 213 are shown in their respective positions. Thus, rotational movement of the primary actuator clamp 9435 exposes the secondary actuator clamp 9555 and the secondary channel 9531 for the next step, but does not move the electrodes 207 and 211.

[0435] refer to Figure 101A , such as by a user sliding the auxiliary actuator clamp 9555 toward the first end 9441 of the outer housing 9410, the auxiliary actuator 9552 is advanced in direction 9123 toward the first end 9441 of the outer housing 9410. Figure 101B , the auxiliary actuator clamp 9555 advances to a position beside the primary actuator clamp 9435 within the auxiliary channel 9531 and the primary channel 9431. Figure 101C , the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 is at a position where it extends beyond the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207, wherein the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 is spirally drilled into the target tissue 202 as previously described with reference to other embodiments.

[0436] refer to Figure 102 , another embodiment of a user interface 10201 for positioning an electrode is shown. The user interface 10201 includes components that move parallel to an axis 10221 or rotate along a curve 10223 about the axis 10221, as further described below. As also further described below, the user interface 10201 is typically controlled by a moving actuator (such as a primary actuator 10232) by engaging a primary actuator clamp 10235 extending from a first channel 10231 defined in the outer housing 10210. The primary actuator 10232 is moved along the axis 10221 by engaging and manipulating the primary actuator clamp 10235 and sliding the primary actuator clamp 10235 along the axis 10221 toward the first end 10241 of the housing 10210. As further described below, once the primary actuator 10232 is moved to a position to which the primary electrode extends, the primary actuator 10232 can be rotated about axis 10221 to provide control of the secondary actuator (not shown). Figure 102By covering the auxiliary electrode actuator, the outer housing 10210 prevents the auxiliary electrode actuator from being moved to extend the auxiliary electrode before it is desired to do so.

[0437] Although the user interface 10201 is implemented in the same manner as Figures 94 to 101C 10201 has some similarities to the user interface 9401, but the user interface 10201 includes features that allow further movement of the primary actuator 10232. The structure of these components and the operation of these features are further described below.

[0438] The user interface 10201 includes a coupler 10220 for engaging a port on an electrosurgical device, such as a bronchoscope, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 , FIG7 and FIG8. In various embodiments, the user interface 10201 also includes a sheath configured to position the Figure 102 ) of the sheath actuator 10204, as previously described with reference to FIG. Figure 11 The sheath actuator 10204 includes a slidable sleeve 10212 and a sheath lock 10206 configured to engage the slidable sleeve 10212 and secure the slidable sleeve 10212 in place at the first end 10241 of the housing 10210, as further described below. It should be understood that, as described with reference to another embodiment of the user interface 3501, Figure 35 As described, the sheath actuator may be a part of the bronchoscope or a separate device (not shown) inserted between the user interface 10201 and the bronchoscope. Figure 102 ). Thus, in some embodiments, the sheath actuator 10204 may not be part of the user interface 10201. Also, although not shown in Figure 102 As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 11 In the embodiment shown in , leads from the switchable current source are received at the user interface 10201 , and a sheath (housing the primary and auxiliary electrodes) extends from the user interface 10201 via a connector 10220 .

[0439] See also Figure 103 , the user interface 10201 includes multiple components, including an outer housing 10210, a primary actuator 10232, an auxiliary actuator 10352, and components of the sheath actuator 10204, including a slidable sleeve 10212, a sheath lock 10206, and a coupler 10220. When the primary actuator 10232 has been positioned as desired, movement of the primary actuator 10232 provides access to the auxiliary actuator 10352 and the auxiliary actuator clamp 10355. The operation of the sheath actuator 10204 and its components is identical to the operation of the sheath actuator 9404, as previously described with reference to Figure 96A 、 Figure 96B 、 Figure 97A and Figure 97B described.

[0440] The primary actuator 10232, which can be manipulated by a user engaging the primary actuator grip 10235, slides and rotates within the outer housing 10210, as described below with reference to Figure 104A 、 105A , 107A and Figure 108A Further described. The main actuator 10232 and the main electrode (not shown) Figure 103 ) are engaged so that movement of the primary actuator 10232 moves the primary electrode. The auxiliary actuator 10352 is engaged with the auxiliary electrode (not shown) Figure 103 ) engages and causes the auxiliary electrode to move. The auxiliary actuator 10352 includes an auxiliary actuator clamp 10355 that enables a user to slide the auxiliary actuator 10352, as further described below.

[0441] The auxiliary actuator holder 10355 moves within the second channel 10331 in the primary actuator 10232. Thus, and as will be described further below, only after the primary actuator 10232 has been moved to position the primary electrode at the desired position can the primary actuator 10232 be moved further to expose the second channel 10331 and the auxiliary actuator holder 10355. Thus, the auxiliary actuator 10352 can be moved only after the primary actuator 10232 has been moved to the prerequisite position, wherein the outer housing 10210 covers the auxiliary electrode actuator 10332 until the aforementioned steps performed with the primary actuator 10232 are first completed. As will be described further below, the primary actuator 10232 is first moved and then rotated so that the auxiliary actuator holder 10355 is uncovered, thereby enabling the auxiliary actuator 10332 to move.

[0442] As previously referenced Figure 102 As described above, the operation of the user interface 10201 is similar to Figures 94 to 101C The user interface 9401 has similarities. Therefore, Figure 104A and Figure 104C User interface 10201 is shown as having been manipulated to move electrodes 207 and 211 to extend distal ends 209 and 213, respectively, to a first position comparable to the first position shown based on manipulation of user interface 4801. Figure 104B , the primary actuator holder 10235 extends from the primary actuator 10232 through the first channel 10231. In addition, as Figure 104B As shown in , the auxiliary channel 10331 remains covered by the outer shell 10210.

[0443] refer to Figure 104C , the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 extends beyond the distal end 105 of the sheath 103, wherein the distal end 209 pierces the target tissue 202 near the reference point 201. The distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. The auxiliary electrode 211 moves with the primary electrode 207 because, as Figure 105A As shown, the auxiliary actuator clamp 10355 is initially located at the rear end 10357 ( Figure 103 ). Thus, movement of the primary actuator 10232 toward the first end 10241 of the outer housing 10210 also causes the auxiliary actuator 10352 to move toward the first end 10241 of the outer housing 10210. This concerted movement of the primary actuator 10232 and the auxiliary actuator 10352 causes the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211 to move in unison.

[0444] refer to Figure 105A , the primary actuator 10232 rotates along curve 10523. The movement of the primary actuator 10232 relative to the outer housing 10210 exposes the auxiliary channel 10331 and the auxiliary actuator clamp 10355. As previously described, the auxiliary actuator clamp 10355 is located at the rear edge 10357 of the auxiliary channel 10331 so that the auxiliary actuator clamp 10355 is extended. Figure 104A and Figure 104C The sliding movement of the primary actuator 10232 by the primary electrode 207 also causes the sliding movement of the auxiliary electrode 211. Figure 104C In the extended state, the auxiliary actuator holder 10355 is exposed so that the auxiliary electrode 211 can be extended separately, as described below with reference to Figures 106A to 108C Further described.

[0445] refer to Figure 105B , the primary actuator grip 10235 has moved through the first channel 10231 and the secondary channel 10331 (which is defined by the primary actuator 10232, which is exposed by the outer housing 10210). Figure 105C , the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 Figure 104C The distal ends 209 and 213 are shown in their respective positions. Thus, rotational movement of the primary actuator grip 10255 exposes the secondary actuator grip 10355 for the next step, but does not move the electrodes 207 and 211.

[0446] In some embodiments of the user interface 10201, for example Figures 48 to 57CIn some embodiments of the user interface 4801, the auxiliary actuator grip 10555 can be spring loaded by the compressible element 10561 such that when the auxiliary channel 10531 and the auxiliary grip actuator 10555 are exposed, the auxiliary grip actuator 10555 extends outwardly from the auxiliary actuator 10552. Figure 56B As described, the outer housing 10210 may incorporate a ramp 10559 along at least a portion of the primary channel 10231 to allow the auxiliary actuator holder 10555 to extend smoothly when the auxiliary actuator 10555 is exposed and / or to allow the auxiliary actuator 10555 to extend smoothly when the auxiliary actuator 10555 is exposed. Figures 104A to 108C The steps described above help to compress the auxiliary actuator clamp 10555 when retracting the electrode 207 and the electrode 211. It should be understood that although not explicitly shown, reference can be made to Figures 94 to 101C The user interface 9401 of EMBODIMENT 1 employs such a spring loaded auxiliary actuator clamp configuration.

[0447] refer to Figure 106A , such as by a user sliding the auxiliary actuator clamp 10355 toward the first end 10241 of the outer housing 10210, the auxiliary actuator 10352 is advanced in direction 10623 toward the first end 10241 of the outer housing 10210. Figure 101B , the auxiliary actuator clamp 10355 advances to a position beside the primary actuator clamp 10235 within the auxiliary channel 10331 and the primary channel 10231. Figure 101C , the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 is shown in a position where it extends beyond the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207, wherein the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 is spirally drilled into the target tissue 202, as previously described with reference to other embodiments.

[0448] and Figures 94 to 101C Compared to user interface 9401 of FIG. 1 , user interface 10201 provides for partial retraction of primary electrode 207 similar to, for example, reference to FIG. Figures 82 to 93B Partial retraction of the main electrode of the user interface 8201.

[0449] refer to Figure 107A , the primary actuator 10232 and the secondary actuator 10352 are rotated along the curve 10723 across the primary channel 10231, such as by a user engaging the primary actuator clamp 10235 or the secondary actuator clamp 10355 and sliding it across the primary channel 10231. Figure 107B, the auxiliary actuator clamp 10355 advances to a position next to the primary actuator clamp 10235 within the auxiliary channel 10331 and the main channel 10231, but this time both the primary actuator clamp 10235 and the auxiliary actuator clamp 10355 move through the main channel 10231.

[0450] refer to Figure 107C , rotation of the primary actuator 10232 and the auxiliary actuator 10352 does not move the primary electrode 207 or the auxiliary electrode 211. Rotation of the primary actuator 10232 and the auxiliary actuator 10352 merely prepares the user interface 10201 for the next step of positioning the electrodes 207 and 211.

[0451] refer to Figure 108A , the primary actuator 10232 moves in direction 10823 away from the first end 10241 of the outer housing 10210 to partially retract the primary electrode 207. A user can engage the primary actuator clamp 10235 to manipulate the primary actuator 10232 to slide in direction 10823. Figure 108B , the auxiliary actuator clamp 10355 is positioned at a position beside the main actuator clamp 10235 within the auxiliary channel 10331 and the main channel 10231, wherein the position partially overlaps on the main channel 10231, as shown Figure 108A shown.

[0452] refer to Figure 108C , movement of the primary actuator 10232 partially retracts the primary electrode 207 without commensurate movement of the auxiliary electrode 211. Thus, the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 remains coiled in the target tissue 202, wherein the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 is located at the reference Figure 106C and Figure 107C However, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 moves away from the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211, thereby exposing the insulating portion 215 of the primary electrode 211 and forming two electrically isolated contacts with the distal ends 209 and 213 of the electrodes 207 and 211 separated by the insulating portion 215.

[0453] refer to Figure 109 , shows another embodiment of the user interface 10901. The user interface 10901 is similar to the reference Figures 94 to 101C The user interface 9401 has similarities. Although the user interface 10901 is similar to Figures 94 to 101C The user interface 9401 of FIG100 has some similarities, but the user interface 10901 includes one or more locking features that can be used to limit the movement of the actuator and electrodes. The structure of these components and the operation of these features are further described below.

[0454] Still refer to Figure 109 , the user interface 10901 includes components that move parallel to an axis 10921 or rotate along a curve 10923 about the axis 10921, as further described below. As also described further below, the user interface 10901 is typically controlled by a moving actuator, such as a primary actuator 10932, by engaging a primary actuator clamp 10935 extending from a first channel 10931 defined in the outer housing 10910. The primary actuator 10932 is moved along the axis 10921 by engaging and manipulating the primary actuator clamp 10935 and sliding the primary actuator clamp 10935 along the axis 10921 toward the first end 10241 of the housing 10210.

[0455] However, in contrast to the user interface 9401, before the primary actuator 10932 can advance, the primary actuator clamp 10935 is depressed to rotate the primary actuator clamp 10925 at the pivot 10938 (which is fixed to the primary actuator 10932), thereby unlocking the movement of the primary actuator 10932, as described with reference to FIG. Figure 110 As further described. The primary actuator 10932 moves to move the primary electrode (not in Figure 109 Once the primary actuator 10932 is moved to the desired position (shown in FIG), the primary actuator clamp 10935 can be released to re-lock the primary actuator 10932 in place. As further described below, once the primary actuator 10932 is moved to the position where the primary electrode extends, the primary actuator 10932 can be rotated about axis 10921 to provide control of the auxiliary actuator (not shown). Figure 109 By covering the auxiliary actuator, the outer housing 10910 prevents the auxiliary actuator from being moved to extend the auxiliary electrode before it is desired to do so.

[0456] refer to Figure 110 In various embodiments, the primary actuator clamp 10935 is rotatably mounted to the primary actuator 10932 at a pivot 10938. The pivot 10938 can be spring loaded. Figure 110In the rest position shown, a latch 11037 on the primary actuator clamp 10932 engages a notch 11072 in a locking structure 11070 in the user interface 10901. The engagement of the latch 11037 with the notch 11072 prevents the primary actuator 10932 from sliding until the primary actuator clamp 10935 is depressed to disengage the latch 11037 from the notch 11072. The rotational locking mechanism of the primary actuator clamp 10935 is one example of a locking mechanism that may be used with embodiments of the user interface 10901. Translational, sliding, or other locking mechanisms may also be utilized to lock the primary actuator 10932 in a desired position.

[0457] See also Figure 111 , the user interface 10901 includes a plurality of components including an outer housing 10910, a primary actuator 10932, an auxiliary actuator 11152, a locking structure 11072, and components of a sheath actuator 10904 including a slidable sleeve 10912, a sheath lock 10906, and a coupler 10920. The operation of the sheath actuator 10904 may be similar to that previously described, such as in reference Figures 96A to 97B The operation of the sheath actuator 9404 of the user interface 9401 is described in Operation of the sheath actuator 9404.

[0458] When the primary actuator 10932 has been positioned as desired, movement of the primary actuator 10932 provides access to the secondary actuator 11152 and the secondary actuator clamp 11155. The primary actuator 10932, which can be manipulated by a user engaging the primary actuator clamp 10935, slides and rotates within the outer housing 10910, similar to the reference embodiment. Figure 99A and Figure 100A Description of the operation of the user interface 9401. The primary actuator 10932 and the primary electrode (not shown) Figure 111 ) are engaged so that movement of the primary actuator 10932 moves the primary electrode. The auxiliary actuator 11152 is engaged with the auxiliary electrode (not shown) Figure 111 11152 engages and moves the auxiliary electrode. The auxiliary actuator 11152 includes an auxiliary actuator clamp 11155 that enables a user to slide the auxiliary actuator 11152. The auxiliary actuator clamp 11155 can also be constructed with a locking mechanism.

[0459] The auxiliary actuator holder 11155 moves within the second channel 11131 in the primary actuator 10932. Thus, and as previously described with reference to similar embodiments, only after the primary actuator 10932 has been moved to position the primary electrode at a desired position can the primary actuator 10932 be moved further to expose the second channel 11131 and the auxiliary actuator holder 11155. Thus, the auxiliary actuator 11152 can be moved only after the primary actuator 10932 has been moved to a prerequisite position, wherein the outer housing 10910 covers the auxiliary electrode actuator 11132 until the aforementioned steps performed with the primary actuator 10932 are first completed. As previously described, the primary actuator 10932 can first be moved and then rotated so that the auxiliary actuator holder 11155 is uncovered, thereby enabling the auxiliary actuator 11132 to move.

[0460] However, unlike the previously described embodiments, the user interface 10901 includes a locking structure 11070, which may include the previously described notch 11072 and one or more additional notches 11174 to allow the primary actuator 10932 to engage with the primary electrode (not shown). Figure 110 If the user interface 10901 is adapted to facilitate partial retraction of the primary electrode after the auxiliary electrode has been extended (e.g., as shown in FIG. Figures 102 to 108C 10921 (described in conjunction with the user interface 10201 of FIG. 1092), another notch may be included in the locking structure to secure the primary electrode in the partially retracted position. The locking structure 11070 may represent a separate body that is fixably secured to the outer housing 10910, or may be integrated within the outer housing 10910 to secure the primary actuator 10932 in a desired position. In embodiments of the locking structure 11070, it should be noted that the notches 11072 and 11074 are perpendicular to the axis 10921 ( Figure 109 ) is extended so that even when the latch 11037 engages one of the notches 11072 or 11174 to, for example, expose the auxiliary actuator clamp 11155, the latch 11037 ( Figure 110 ) and therefore the primary actuator clamp 10935 and the primary actuator 10932 can also rotate relative to the axis.

[0461] refer to Figure 112A , the primary actuator clamp 10935 is in the locked position and positioned at an initial position within the first channel 10931. Figure 110 As described, the primary actuator clamp 10935 is locked in place. Figure 112BThe distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is positioned within the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 , wherein the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 has been positioned proximate to the reference point 201 . The distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 is positioned within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 .

[0462] refer to Figure 113A , press the primary actuator clamp 10935 so as to rotate the primary actuator clamp 10935 to remove the primary actuator clamp 10935 from the recess (not in Figure 113A With the primary actuator clamp 10955 in the unlocked position, the primary actuator clamp 10935, and therefore the primary actuator 10932, can be moved to extend the primary electrode. However, simply rotating the primary actuator clamp 10935 to unlock the primary actuator clamp 10935 will not move the electrode. Figure 113B , the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 remains positioned within the distal end 105 of the sheath 103, wherein the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 has been positioned proximate to the reference point 201. The distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207.

[0463] refer to Figure 114A , the primary actuator clamp 10935, and therefore the primary actuator 10935, is moved in direction 11423 and then released to lock the primary actuator clamp 10935 in the extended position. Figure 114B , the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 extends beyond the distal end 105 of the sheath 103, wherein the distal end 209 pierces the target tissue 202 near the reference point 201. The distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. The auxiliary electrode 211 moves with the primary electrode 207 because, as Figure 111 As shown, the auxiliary actuator clamp 11155 is initially located at the rear end 11157 ( Figure 111 ). Thus, movement of the primary actuator 10932 toward the first end 10941 of the outer housing 10910 also causes the secondary actuator 11152 to move toward the first end 10941 of the outer housing 10910, as previously described with reference to e.g. Figures 94 to 101C This coordinated movement of the primary actuator 10932 and the auxiliary actuator 11152 causes the primary electrode 207 and the auxiliary electrode 211 to move in unison. Further movement of the auxiliary electrode 211 and / or the primary electrode 207 can be achieved by the structure and its operation (such as, for example, as described in reference Figures 94 to 101C User interface 9401 or Figures 102 to 108CIn other words, the user interface 9401 or the user interface 10201 may be adapted to use the Figures 109 to 114B The one or more locking actuator clamps are provided to enhance the ability to lock the actuator as desired.

[0464] refer to Figure 115 , another embodiment of a user interface 11501 for positioning an electrode is shown. The user interface 11501 includes components that move parallel to an axis 11521 or rotate along a curve 11523 about the axis 11521, as further described below. Still as further described below, the user interface 11501 is typically controlled by moving an actuator (such as a primary actuator 11532) by engaging a primary actuator clamp 11535 extending from a first channel 11531 defined in the outer housing 11510. The primary actuator 11532 is moved along the axis 11521 by engaging and manipulating the primary actuator clamp 11535 and sliding the primary actuator clamp 11535 along the axis 11521 toward the first end 11541 of the housing 11510. As further described below, once the primary actuator 11532 is moved to a position to which the primary electrode extends, support for the auxiliary actuator (not shown) is provided. Figure 115 15). By covering the auxiliary electrode actuator, the outer housing 11510 prevents movement of the auxiliary electrode actuator to extend the auxiliary electrode until it is desired to do so. A first channel 11531 is formed to allow partial retraction of the primary electrode and primary actuator clamp 11532, and to allow extension and retraction of the primary electrode and auxiliary electrode. The structure and operation of these components are further described below.

[0465] The user interface 11501 includes a coupler 11520 for engaging a port on an electrosurgical device, such as a bronchoscope, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 , as described in Figures 7 and 8. The user interface 11501 also includes a means for positioning the sheath (not shown in FIG. Figure 115 ) of the sheath actuator 11504, as previously described with reference to FIG. 7 to FIG. Figure 11 The sheath actuator 11504 includes a slidable sleeve 11512 and a sheath lock 11506 for engaging the slidable sleeve 11512 and securing the slidable sleeve 11512 in place at the first end 11541 of the housing 11510, as further described below. It should be understood that, as described with reference to another embodiment of the user interface 3501, Figure 35 As described above, the sheath actuator can be part of the bronchoscope or a separate device (not shown) inserted between the user interface 11501 and the bronchoscope. Figure 115). Thus, in some embodiments, the sheath actuator 11504 may not be part of the user interface 11501. Also, although not shown in Figure 115 As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 11 In the embodiment shown in , leads from a switchable current source are received at the user interface 11501 , and a sheath (housing the primary and auxiliary electrodes) extends from the user interface 11501 via a connector 11520 .

[0466] See also Figure 116 , the user interface 11501 includes multiple components including an outer housing 11510, a primary actuator 11532, an auxiliary actuator 11652, and components of the sheath actuator 11504 including a slidable sleeve 11512, a sheath lock 11506, and a coupler 11520. When the primary actuator 11532 has been positioned as desired, movement of the primary actuator 11532 provides access to the auxiliary actuator 11652 and the auxiliary actuator clamp 11655.

[0467] The primary actuator 11532, which can be manipulated by a user engaging the primary actuator grip 11535, slides and rotates within the outer housing 11510, as described below with reference to Figure 121A Further described. The main actuator 11532 and the main electrode (not shown) Figure 116 ) are engaged so that movement of the primary actuator 11532 moves the primary electrode. The auxiliary actuator 11652 is engaged with the auxiliary electrode (not shown) Figure 116 ) engages and causes the auxiliary electrode to move. The auxiliary actuator 11652 includes an auxiliary actuator clamp 11655 that enables a user to slide the auxiliary actuator 11652, as further described below.

[0468] The auxiliary actuator clamp 11655 moves within the second channel 11631 in the primary actuator 11532. Thus, and as will be described further below, only when the primary actuator 11532 has been moved to position the primary electrode at a desired position can the primary actuator 11532 be moved further to expose the second channel 11631 and the auxiliary actuator clamp 11655. Thus, the auxiliary actuator 11652 can be moved only when the primary actuator 11532 has been moved to a prerequisite position, with the outer housing 11510 covering the auxiliary electrode actuator 11632 until the aforementioned steps performed with the primary actuator 11532 are first completed.

[0469] refer to Figure 117A 、 Figure 117B 、 Figure 118A and Figure 118B, depicting the operation of the sheath actuator 11504. As previously described, the operation of the sheath actuator 11504 of the user interface 11501 is very similar to Figure 88A 、 Figure 89A 、 Figure 90A and Figure 90B Operation of the sheath actuator 8204 and other sheath actuators of the user interface 8201. Figure 96A and Figure 96B And when used in conjunction with the user interface 11501, the sheath actuator 11504 controls the position of the sheath 103. Specifically, the position of the sheath 103 is controlled by sliding the slidable sleeve 11512 within the coupling 11520 and securing the sheath 103 in the desired position by securing the slidable sleeve 11512 with the sheath lock 11506. As previously described, the sheath actuator 11504 can be used with Figure 9 The sheath lock 11506 is operated in a similar manner to the sheath lock 706 of the embodiment of the present invention. The slidable sleeve 11512 can be fixedly mounted to the outer housing 11510 and slidably received within the coupler 11520. When the slidable sleeve 11512 is positioned to position the sheath 103 containing the electrodes 207 and 211 at the desired position, the sheath lock 11506 is locked to secure the slidable sleeve 11512 in place. The sheath lock 11506 can be a spring-loaded lock, a thumbscrew, or a spring-loaded lock as previously described with reference to FIG. Figure 10 Other similar mechanisms are described to secure the slidable sleeve 11512 in place, thereby fixing the position of the sheath 103.

[0470] As previously mentioned and as Figure 117B As shown, in the exemplary embodiment, the auxiliary electrode 211 is received within the primary electrode, with the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 initially positioned just within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. Subsequently, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is positioned just within the distal end 105 of the sheath 103. The distal end of the sheath 103 may initially be positioned away from or immediately adjacent to the reference point 201 before the sheath actuator 8204 is used to position the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 near the reference point 201.

[0471] refer to Figure 118A and Figure 118B And when used in conjunction with the user interface 11501, the sheath actuator 11504 is used to move the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 to a position such as Figure 97B, closer to the reference point 201. The relative movement of the outer housing 11510 toward the coupler 11520 by a distance 11819 causes the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 to move a corresponding distance, thereby bringing the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 closer to the reference point 201. In turn, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 also move closer to the reference point 201. The relative movement of the outer housing 11510 toward the coupler 11520 is achieved by the slidable sleeve 11512 being at least partially received within the coupler 11520 and then secured by the sheath lock 11506, as previously described. Figure 118B As shown, distal end 209 of primary electrode 207 remains positioned within distal end 105 of sheath 103, which has been positioned proximate reference point 201. Distal end 213 of auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned within distal end 209 of primary electrode 207.

[0472] Figures 119A to 123C FIG15 shows how the user interface 11501 moves the electrodes 207 and 211 based on manipulation of the user interface 11501. Figure 119A , the primary actuator clamp 11535 extends upward from the primary actuator 11532 through the first channel 11531 of the outer housing 11510 and is positioned at an initial position at the rear end 11937 within the first channel 11531. Figure 119B , the primary actuator holder 11535 extends from the primary actuator 11532 through the first channel 11531 in the outer housing 11510. In cross section, although the auxiliary channel 11631 is exposed within the primary channel 11531, as shown Figure 119A 1510, but the auxiliary actuator clamp 11655 remains covered by the outer housing 11510. Additionally, in some embodiments, the auxiliary actuator clamp 11655 can be spring loaded by the compressible element 11959. Thus, when the primary actuator clamp 11535 is in the initial position, the auxiliary actuator clamp 11655 can be covered and compressed by the outer housing 11510.

[0473] When the main actuator 11532 is in the initial position, as shown in FIG. Figure 119C As shown, distal end 209 of primary electrode 207 remains positioned within distal end 105 of sheath 103, which has been positioned proximate reference point 201. Distal end 213 of auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned within distal end 209 of primary electrode 207.

[0474] refer to Figure 120A, such as by a user engaging the primary electrode clamp 11535 and sliding it toward the first end 11541 of the outer housing 11510, the primary actuator 11532 moves to extend the primary electrode 207. As the primary actuator 11532 moves, the auxiliary actuator clamp 11655, and therefore the auxiliary actuator 11652, moves toward the first end 11541 of the outer housing 11510. In an initial position, the auxiliary actuator 11655 is located at a trailing end 11657 of an auxiliary channel 11631 defined in the primary actuator 11531. Thus, movement of the primary actuator clamp 11535 toward the first end 11541 of the outer housing 11510 moves the auxiliary channel 11631, thereby moving the auxiliary actuator clamp 11655, which in turn moves the auxiliary actuator 11652.

[0475] refer to Figure 120B , the primary actuator holder 11535 extends from the primary actuator 11532 through the first passage 11531 in the outer housing 11510. Additionally, as Figure 120B As shown, the auxiliary actuator clamp 11655, which is not covered and compressed by the outer housing 11510, now extends upwardly through the auxiliary channel 11631 and the main channel 11531. Figure 120C , the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 extends beyond the distal end 105 of the sheath 103, wherein the distal end 209 pierces the target tissue 202 near the reference point 201. Because the auxiliary electrode actuator 11652 moves in unison with the primary electrode actuator 11532 in this first extension of the primary electrode 207, the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 remains positioned at the same position relative to the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207.

[0476] refer to Figure 121A , the primary actuator holder 11535 and the auxiliary actuator holder 11655 and the primary actuator 11532 and the auxiliary actuator 11652 rotate along the curve 12123. The movement of the primary actuator 11532 and the auxiliary actuator 11652 relative to the outer housing 11510 places the auxiliary actuator holder 11555 in a position for extending the auxiliary electrode in the next step, as shown in FIG. Figures 122A to 122C Further described. Figure 121B , the primary actuator clamp 11535 and the secondary actuator clamp 11655 have moved through the first channel 11531 in the outer housing 11510. Figure 121C, distal ends 209 and distal ends 213 of electrodes 207 and 211, respectively, do not change position. Rotational movement of primary actuator grip 11532 and secondary actuator 11652 prepares user interface 11501 for the next step without moving electrodes 207 and 211.

[0477] refer to Figure 122A , such as by a user sliding the auxiliary actuator clamp 11655 toward the first end 11541 of the outer housing 11510, the auxiliary actuator 11652 advances in direction 12223 toward the first end 11541 of the outer housing 11510. Figure 122B , along Figure 121A In the cross-sectional view taken along axis 121B of FIG. 1 , the auxiliary actuator clamp 11655 is shown in an advanced position within the auxiliary channel 11631 and the primary channel 11531. Figure 122C , the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 is shown in a position where it extends beyond the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207, wherein the distal end 213 of the auxiliary electrode 211 is spirally drilled into the target tissue 202, as previously described with reference to other embodiments.

[0478] refer to Figure 121A and Figure 122A , after the primary actuator clamp 11535 and the secondary actuator clamp 11655 rotate, the primary actuator clamp 11535 is positioned at the rear 12190 of the primary channel 11531. Figure 123A , with the auxiliary actuator clamp 11655 maintained in the extended position, the primary actuator clamp is pulled in direction 12323 away from the first end 11541 of the outer housing 11510. Figure 123C , the primary actuator 11535 is received in the rear portion 12190 of the primary channel 11531. Figure 123C , movement of the primary actuator clamp 11535 and the resulting movement of the primary actuator 11532 partially retracts the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207, thereby exposing the insulating portion 215 to electrically isolate the distal ends 209 and distal ends 213 of the electrodes 207 and 211, respectively.

[0479] refer to Figure 124 , an exemplary method 12400 for positioning electrodes for treatment is provided. The method 12400 begins at block 12405. At block 12410, a sheath housing a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode is extended, wherein the auxiliary electrode is housed within the primary electrode and initially coupled to move with the primary electrode, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG. 8 , FIG. 51 , FIG. 61 , and FIG. Figures 88A to 89B as well as Figures 117A to 118BAt block 12420, the primary electrode is moved to a first position near the reference point, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG. 14, FIG. 38, FIG. 53, FIG. 64, Figures 90A to 90B 、 Figures 97A to 97B Figure 104 to Figure 104C 、 Figures 114A to 114B as well as Figures 119A to 119C At block 12430, the primary actuator is moved to move the cover device, thereby allowing access to the auxiliary actuator configured to move the auxiliary electrode, as previously described, for example, with reference to Figures 90A to 90B 、 Figures 100A to 100C 、 Figures 105A to 105C as well as Figures 120A to 120C At block 12440, the auxiliary electrode is moved to a second position near the reference point, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG. 20, FIG. 45, FIG. 55, FIG. 66, Figures 91A to 91B 、 Figures 101A to 101C 、 Figures 106A to 106C as well as Figures 122A to 122C Method 12400 ends at block 12445, where the electrodes are now positioned for administering therapy.

[0480] refer to Figure 125 , an exemplary method 12500 for positioning electrodes for treatment is provided. The method 12500 begins at block 12505. At block 12510, a sheath housing a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode is extended, wherein the auxiliary electrode is housed within the primary electrode and initially coupled to move with the primary electrode, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG. 8 , FIG. 51 , FIG. 61 , and FIG. Figures 88A to 89B as well as Figures 117A to 118B At block 12520, the primary electrode is moved to a first position near the reference point, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG. 14, FIG. 38, FIG. 53, FIG. 64, Figures 90A to 90B 、 Figures 97A to 97B Figure 104 to Figure 104C 、 Figures 114A to 114B as well as Figures 119A to 119C At block 12530, the primary actuator is rotated to expose the auxiliary actuator, which was previously at least partially covered by the primary actuator and is coupled to the auxiliary electrode, to allow access to the auxiliary actuator to move the auxiliary electrode, as previously described, for example, with reference to Figures 100A to 100C as well as Figures 105A to 105C At block 12540, the auxiliary electrode is moved to a second position near the reference point, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG. 20, FIG. 45, FIG. 55, FIG. 66, Figures 91A to 91B 、 Figures 101A to 101C 、 Figures 106A to 106C as well as Figures 122A to 122C Method 12500 ends at block 12545, where the electrodes are now positioned for administering therapy.

[0481] refer to Figure 126, an exemplary method 12600 for positioning electrodes for treatment is provided. The method 12600 begins at block 12605. At block 12610, a sheath housing a primary electrode and an auxiliary electrode is extended, wherein the auxiliary electrode is housed within the primary electrode and initially coupled to move with the primary electrode, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG8 , FIG51 , FIG61 , and FIG62 . Figures 88A to 89B as well as Figures 117A to 118B At block 12620, the primary actuator clamp slides within a channel defined in the outer handle to move the primary actuator, thereby moving the primary electrode to a first position near the reference point, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG. 14 , FIG. 38 , FIG. 53 , FIG. 64 , FIG. Figures 90A to 90B 、 Figures 97A to 97B Figure 104 to Figure 104C 、 Figures 114A to 114B as well as Figures 119A to 119C At block 12630, the primary actuator is rotated to expose the auxiliary actuator, which was previously at least partially covered by the primary actuator and is coupled to the auxiliary electrode, to allow access to the auxiliary actuator to move the auxiliary electrode, as previously described, for example, with reference to Figures 100A to 100C as well as Figures 105A to 105C At block 12640, the auxiliary electrode is moved to a second position near the reference point, as previously described, for example, with reference to FIG. 20, FIG. 45, FIG. 55, FIG. 66, Figures 91A to 91B 、 Figures 101A to 101C 、 Figures 106A to 106C as well as Figures 122A to 122C Method 12500 ends at block 12645, where the electrodes are now positioned for administering therapy.

[0482] It should be understood that the detailed description set forth above is merely illustrative in nature, and variations that do not depart from the spirit and / or essence of the claimed subject matter are intended to fall within the scope of the claims. These variations should not be considered as departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter.

Claims

1. A device for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath insertable into a body and positionable relative to a reference point, the device comprising: a primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode to a first position; an auxiliary actuator configured to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position; and a cover device configured to selectively prevent access to the auxiliary actuator until the primary actuator has been manipulated to extend the primary electrode to the first position; wherein the auxiliary actuator is nested on the primary actuator; The auxiliary actuator includes a tab extending inwardly into its hollow channel, and the main actuator includes a groove configured to extend only a portion of its length and to slidably receive the tab so that the main actuator and the auxiliary actuator move in unison to move the primary electrode to a first position; and the tab is capable of independently moving in the groove toward an open end of the groove so that the auxiliary actuator moves independently of the main actuator to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cover device defines a first access opening configured to allow access to the auxiliary actuator after the primary actuator has been manipulated to move the primary electrode to the first position.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the cover device is configured to expose an access opening after having been manipulated to move the primary electrode, the access opening being configured to allow access to the secondary actuator after rotation of the primary actuator.

4. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising an external handle configured to house the primary actuator and the secondary actuator, the cover device being integrated into the external handle.

5. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a primary actuator lock that must be released before the primary actuator can move to the first position.

6. The device of claim 5, wherein the primary actuator lock comprises a spring loaded lever configured to be depressed at a first end to release a latch, thereby allowing the primary actuator to move.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the primary actuator is further configured to move to partially retract the primary electrode to a partially retracted position after the auxiliary electrode has moved to the second position.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the cover device is further configured to prevent the primary actuator from moving to partially retract the primary electrode to the partially retracted position until the auxiliary electrode has moved to the second position.

9. Apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the covering device is integrated into the primary actuator.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the cover device is further configured to be rotatable relative to the primary actuator to allow the primary actuator to move to allow the primary electrode to be partially retracted to the partially retracted position.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the cover device defines a second access opening configured to allow the primary actuator to move to allow the primary electrode to be partially retracted to the partially retracted position.

12. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a sheath housing distal portions of the primary electrode and the auxiliary electrode; a sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point; and A sheath lock is configured to fix a position of a distal end of the sheath relative to the reference point.

13. A system for treating tissue at a reference point, the system comprising: a controllable power source configured to selectively provide power between the first pole and the second pole; an electrosurgical device configured to be inserted into a body to deliver a sheath proximate a reference point, the sheath housing a primary electrode electrically coupled to the first pole of the power source and an auxiliary electrode electrically coupled to the second pole of the power source; and An electrode control device, the electrode control device comprising: a primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode to a first position; an auxiliary actuator configured to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position; and a cover device configured to selectively prevent access to the auxiliary actuator until the primary actuator has been manipulated to extend the primary electrode to the first position; wherein the auxiliary actuator is nested on the primary actuator; The auxiliary actuator includes a tab extending inwardly into its hollow channel, and the main actuator includes a groove configured to extend only a portion of its length and to slidably receive the tab so that the main actuator and the auxiliary actuator move in unison to move the primary electrode to a first position; and the tab is capable of independently moving in the groove toward an open end of the groove so that the auxiliary actuator moves independently of the main actuator to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position.

14. The system of claim 13, further comprising: a sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point; A sheath lock is configured to selectively fix a position of the sheath relative to the reference point.

15. The system of claim 13, wherein the cover device is configured to be rotatable relative to the primary actuator to allow access to the secondary actuator after the primary actuator has been manipulated to move the primary electrode to the first position.

16. The system of claim 13, wherein the covering device is integrated into the primary actuator.

17. The system of claim 13, wherein: The covering device is integrated into the outer handle of the electrode control device; and The electrode control device is configured to accommodate the primary actuator and the auxiliary actuator.

18. The system of claim 13, wherein the electrode control device further comprises a primary actuator lock that must be released before the primary actuator can move to the first position.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the primary actuator lock comprises a spring loaded lever configured to be depressed at a first end to release a latch, thereby allowing movement of the primary actuator.

20. The system of claim 13, wherein the primary actuator is further configured to move to partially retract the primary electrode to a partially retracted position after the auxiliary electrode has moved to the second position.

21. An apparatus for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath insertable into a body and positionable relative to a reference point, the apparatus comprising: a shaft configured to allow the primary electrode and the auxiliary electrode to slidably pass therethrough; a primary actuator coupled to the primary electrode and configured to slidably move on the shaft to move the primary electrode to a first position proximate a reference point; an auxiliary actuator coupled to the auxiliary electrode and configured to slidably move on the shaft to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position; and a cover device incorporated into the primary actuator and configured to at least partially prevent access to the auxiliary actuator, the primary actuator being configured to slidably and rotatably move relative to the shaft, and wherein the primary actuator is further configured to rotate to move the cover device after the primary actuator has been moved to slidably move the primary electrode to the first position, thereby allowing access to the auxiliary actuator; wherein the auxiliary actuator is nested on the primary actuator; The auxiliary actuator includes a tab extending inwardly into its hollow channel, and the main actuator includes a groove configured to extend only a portion of its length and to slidably receive the tab so that the main actuator and the auxiliary actuator move in unison to move the primary electrode to a first position; and the tab is capable of independently moving in the groove toward an open end of the groove so that the auxiliary actuator moves independently of the main actuator to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position.

22. The device of claim 21, wherein the primary actuator and the auxiliary actuator are configured to be coupled such that when the primary actuator moves to move the primary electrode to the first position, the auxiliary actuator moves in unison to move the auxiliary electrode with the first electrode.

23. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the cover device defines an access opening and is configured to rotate such that the access opening allows access to the auxiliary actuator after the primary actuator has been manipulated to move the primary electrode to the first position and rotated.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the primary actuator is further configured to allow the primary actuator to move to partially retract the primary electrode to a partially retracted position after the auxiliary electrode has moved to the second position.

25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the primary actuator is further configured to rotate after the auxiliary electrode has moved to the second position to allow the primary electrode to partially retract.

26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the primary actuator further comprises a clamp to facilitate slidable movement of the primary actuator.

27. The device according to claim 26 further includes an external handle configured to accommodate the primary actuator and the auxiliary actuator, and wherein when the primary actuator is rotated to allow access to the auxiliary actuator, the external handle at least partially covers the clamp to at least partially interfere with the movement of the primary actuator.

28. The apparatus of claim 21, further comprising: a sheath actuator configured to move a sheath relative to the reference point, wherein the sheath houses distal portions of the primary electrode and the auxiliary electrode; and A sheath lock is configured to fix a position of a distal end of the sheath relative to the reference point.

29. A system for treating tissue at a reference point, the system comprising: a controllable power source configured to selectively provide power between the first pole and the second pole; an electrosurgical device configured to be inserted into a body to deliver a sheath proximate a reference point, the sheath housing a primary electrode electrically coupled to the first pole of the power source and an auxiliary electrode electrically coupled to the second pole of the power source; and The electrode control device further comprises: a shaft configured to allow the primary electrode and the auxiliary electrode to slidably pass therethrough; a primary actuator coupled to the primary electrode and configured to slidably move on the shaft to move the primary electrode to a first position proximate a reference point; an auxiliary actuator coupled to the auxiliary electrode and configured to slidably move on the shaft to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position; and a covering device incorporated into the primary actuator and configured to at least partially prevent access to the auxiliary actuator, the primary actuator being configured to be slidably and rotatably movable relative to the shaft, and wherein the primary actuator is further configured to rotate to move the covering device after the primary actuator has been moved to slidably move the primary electrode to the first position, thereby allowing access to the auxiliary actuator; wherein the auxiliary actuator is nested on the primary actuator; wherein the auxiliary actuator includes a tab extending inwardly into a hollow channel thereof, the primary actuator including a groove configured to extend only a portion of its length and to slidably receive the tab so that the primary actuator and the auxiliary actuator move in unison to move the primary electrode to the first position; and the tab is capable of independently moving in the groove toward an open end of the groove so that the auxiliary actuator moves independently of the primary actuator to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position.

30. The system of claim 29, wherein the primary actuator and the auxiliary actuator are configured to be coupled such that when the primary actuator moves to move the primary electrode to the first position, the auxiliary actuator moves in unison to move the auxiliary electrode with the primary electrode.

31. The system of claim 29, wherein the cover device defines an access opening and is configured to rotate such that the access opening allows access to the auxiliary actuator after the primary actuator has been manipulated to move the primary electrode to the first position and rotated.

32. The system of claim 31 wherein the primary actuator is further configured to allow the primary actuator to move to partially retract the primary electrode to a partially retracted position after the auxiliary electrode has moved to the second position.

33. The system of claim 32, wherein the primary actuator is further configured to rotate after the auxiliary electrode has moved to the second position to allow the primary electrode to partially retract.

34. The system of claim 33, wherein the primary actuator further comprises a clamp to facilitate slidable movement of the primary actuator.

35. A system according to claim 34, wherein the electrode control device includes an external handle, which is configured to accommodate the primary actuator and the auxiliary actuator, and wherein when the primary actuator is rotated to allow access to the auxiliary actuator, the external handle at least partially covers the clamp to at least partially interfere with the movement of the primary actuator.

36. The system of claim 29, further comprising: a sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point, wherein the sheath houses distal portions of the primary electrode and the auxiliary electrode; and A sheath lock is configured to fix a position of a distal end of the sheath relative to the reference point.

37. An apparatus for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath insertable into a body and positionable relative to a reference point, the apparatus comprising: a primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode to a first position when the primary actuator clamp is slidably moved toward the first end; an auxiliary actuator configured to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position when the auxiliary actuator holder is slidably moved toward the first end; and an external handle configured to selectively prevent access to the auxiliary actuator clamp of the auxiliary actuator until the primary actuator has been manipulated to extend the primary electrode to the first position and rotated relative to the primary actuator to expose the auxiliary actuator; wherein the auxiliary actuator is nested on the primary actuator; The auxiliary actuator includes a tab extending inwardly into its hollow channel, and the main actuator includes a groove configured to extend only a portion of its length and to slidably receive the tab so that the main actuator and the auxiliary actuator move in unison to move the primary electrode to a first position; and the tab is capable of independently moving in the groove toward an open end of the groove so that the auxiliary actuator moves independently of the main actuator to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position.

38. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein: The auxiliary actuator clamp extends through a first passage defined in the primary actuator.

39. The device of claim 38, wherein the outer handle defines a second channel into which the primary actuator clamp and the auxiliary actuator clamp slide, the second channel being configured to selectively control relative movement of the primary actuator clamp and the auxiliary actuator clamp.

40. The apparatus of claim 39, wherein the auxiliary actuator clamp is configured to extend outwardly from the auxiliary actuator and into the first channel after the outer handle is rotated relative to the primary actuator to expose the auxiliary actuator clamp.

41. A device according to claim 40, wherein the external handle is further configured to be capable of rotating relative to the main actuator after the auxiliary actuator moves to move the auxiliary electrode to the second position, thereby allowing the main actuator to move to allow the main electrode to partially retract to the partially retracted position.

42. The apparatus of claim 41, wherein the first channel prevents sliding movement of the auxiliary actuator clamp to prevent movement of the auxiliary actuator when the primary actuator moves to partially retract the primary electrode.

43. The apparatus of claim 37, further comprising a primary actuator lock configured such that the primary actuator lock must be released before the primary actuator can move to the first position.

44. The apparatus of claim 37, further comprising: a sheath housing distal portions of the primary electrode and the auxiliary electrode; a sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to a reference point; and A sheath lock is configured to fix a position of a distal end of the sheath relative to the reference point.

45. A system for treating tissue at a reference point, the system comprising: a controllable power source configured to selectively provide power between the first pole and the second pole; an electrosurgical device configured to be inserted into a body to deliver a sheath proximate a reference point, the sheath housing a primary electrode electrically coupled to the first pole of the power source and an auxiliary electrode electrically coupled to the second pole of the power source; and The electrode control device further comprises: a primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode to a first position when the primary actuator clamp is slidably moved toward the first end; an auxiliary actuator configured to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position when the auxiliary actuator holder is slidably moved toward the first end; and an external handle configured to selectively prevent access to the auxiliary actuator clamp of the auxiliary actuator until the primary actuator has been manipulated to extend the primary electrode to the first position and rotated relative to the primary actuator to expose the auxiliary actuator clamp; wherein the auxiliary actuator is nested on the primary actuator; The auxiliary actuator includes a tab extending inwardly into its hollow channel, and the main actuator includes a groove configured to extend only a portion of its length and to slidably receive the tab so that the main actuator and the auxiliary actuator move in unison to move the primary electrode to a first position; and the tab is capable of independently moving in the groove toward an open end of the groove so that the auxiliary actuator moves independently of the main actuator to move the auxiliary electrode to a second position.

46. ​​The system of claim 45, wherein: The auxiliary actuator is nested within the primary actuator; and The auxiliary actuator clamp extends through a first passage defined in the primary actuator.

47. A system according to claim 46, wherein the external handle defines a second channel, and the main actuator clamp and the auxiliary actuator clamp slide into the second channel, and the second channel is configured to selectively control the relative movement of the main actuator clamp and the auxiliary actuator clamp.

48. The system of claim 47, wherein a secondary actuator clamp is configured to extend outwardly from the auxiliary actuator and into the first channel after the outer handle is rotated relative to the primary actuator to expose the auxiliary actuator clamp.

49. A system according to claim 48, wherein the external handle is further configured to be rotatable relative to the main actuator after the auxiliary actuator moves to move the auxiliary electrode to the second position, thereby allowing the main actuator to move to allow the main electrode to partially retract to the partially retracted position.

50. The system of claim 49, wherein the first channel prevents sliding movement of the auxiliary actuator clamp to prevent movement of the auxiliary actuator clamp when the primary actuator moves to partially retract the primary electrode.

51. The system of claim 45, further comprising a primary actuator lock configured such that the primary actuator lock must be released before the primary actuator can move to the first position.

52. The system of claim 45, further comprising: a sheath housing distal portions of the primary electrode and the auxiliary electrode; a sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to a reference point; and A sheath lock is configured to fix a position of a distal end of the sheath relative to the reference point.

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