Cooling System of Surgical Equipment

Abstract

The present invention provides a cooling system for a surgical ablation device, the device having a cooling circuit, including a device coolant supply line having a supply connector; a coolant return line having a return connector; a coolant channel within the device for circulating coolant within the device, the supply line and the return line being in fluid communication through the device coolant channel; and a coolant manifold configured to fluidly connect a coolant source to at least one manifold fluid outlet port, such as connecting the coolant source to one or more device coolant channels. The supply connector is configured to connect to a manifold outlet port of the manifold.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related literature

[0002] This application claims priority to Provisional Application No. 62 / 884,044, filed on August 7, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to cooling systems for surgical ablation devices. Surgical ablation devices, such as radiofrequency (RF) and microwave (MW) ablation devices, are well known and have been used intraoperatively to ablate tissue, such as (particularly) tumor tissue and cardiac tissue, for example, to treat cardiac arrhythmias. Also known are flexible catheter-based devices for navigating passageways, such as lung tissue or blood vessels, as well as percutaneous needle-based devices. Background Art

[0004] During operation, parts of these devices can become very hot due to the amount of energy passing through the device. This increased temperature can cause the device itself to heat up and damage surrounding tissue, but it can also cause the performance of the antenna to deteriorate during use. Therefore, it is common to cool ablation devices, typically by circulating a coolant through the device. The coolant, typically saline or water that is circulated through the device, has the added benefit of modulating the dielectric properties of the antenna and reducing near-field anomalies, which can cause overheating of tissue close to the antenna and a deterioration of the impedance match between the antenna and tissue.

[0005] For example, in microwave ablation, antenna designers typically seek predictably shaped fields so the size and shape of the ablation is also predictable, and the shape of the ablation volume can be more accurately sculpted by using more than one device.

[0006] One source of coolant is an intravenous (IV) drip bag, which is readily available in the operating room. Coolant can be pumped through the ablation device and then discarded to waste or recirculated into the bag to avoid the use of multiple containers. Using multiple needles may require the use of multiple bags, thereby increasing travel lines and setup time, or a single bag with multiple lines and connectors. These approaches increase setup complexity, potentially leading to more leaks or errors during setup, and result in an undesirable increase in travel lines in the operating room.

[0007] The coolant can be circulated through the system by a pump, to which the lines from the bag are connected. Again, multiple devices require multiple pumps or multiple lines connected to the same pump, complicating the setup.

[0008] Furthermore, from a cost and safety perspective, it is desirable to provide a system that is easy to install and handle, and in which the smallest parts of the system can be reused.

[0009] The present invention addresses at least some of these problems. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 is a simplified diagram of a surgical ablation system.

[0011] Figure 2 illustrates one arrangement of manifold outlet ports and supply connections. Figure 2A One arrangement of separated joints is shown, Figure 2B Shows the connected joints, Figure 2C Illustration of the supply connector, Figure 2D The arrangement of the umbrella valve is described, Figure 2E Another view illustrating the umbrella valve arrangement, and Figure 2F An enlarged view of the supply connector and valve is shown.

[0012] Figure 3 illustrates a cartridge as further described herein operating with a peristaltic pump. Figure 3A The cartridge is illustrated connecting the supply and return fittings to the manifold while functionally engaging the pumping portion of the device cooling fluid supply line with the rollers of the peristaltic pump. Figure 3B Here is a more detailed view of the fitting connecting to the manifold.

[0013] Figure 4 A surgical ablation system is described having a cooling system as further described herein.

[0014] 5 illustrates an embodiment of a surgical ablation device cooling system having a pumping portion including a detachable pump head. Figure 5A A plan view of a cooling system 500 is shown having a pump 501, a manifold 18, and a cartridge 508 including a removable pump head 507. Figure 5B A cross-sectional side view at XY is shown. Figure 5C A partial cross-sectional side view at AB is shown. Summary of the Invention

[0015] Thus, in a first aspect, the present invention provides a surgical ablation system having a surgical ablation device and a coolant distribution manifold. The surgical ablation device has a device cooling circuit, the conduit comprising a device coolant supply line, a device coolant return line, and one or more device coolant channels. The device coolant supply line may be configured to deliver coolant to the ablation device, and the device coolant supply line may comprise a supply connector. The device coolant return line may be configured to receive coolant flowing from the ablation device. One or more device coolant channels within the ablation device may be configured to circulate coolant within the device to cool at least a portion of the device. The device coolant supply line and the device coolant return line may be in fluid communication via the device coolant channels. The coolant distribution manifold may be configured to fluidically connect a source of cooling fluid to at least one manifold fluid outlet port. The supply connector may be configured to connect to the manifold outlet port to fluidically connect the source of cooling fluid to the one or more device coolant channels.

[0016] The manifold can be further configured to fluidly connect a cooling fluid source to the manifold outlet port via a normally closed manifold outlet valve, and the supply connector can be configured to open the manifold outlet valve when connected to the manifold outlet port to fluidly connect the cooling fluid supply to the one or more device coolant channels.

[0017] The manifold may further include one or more manifold inlet ports and may be configured to fluidly connect a cooling system return line to the one or more manifold inlet ports. The equipment coolant return may include a return connector configured to connect to the manifold inlet port so that the cooling system return can be in fluid communication with the one or more equipment coolant channels.

[0018] The manifold may be further configured to fluidly connect the cooling system return to the manifold inlet port via a normally closed manifold inlet valve. The manifold inlet valve may be configured to open when a return fitting is connected to the port. The return fitting may be further configured to open the manifold inlet valve when connected to the manifold outlet port to fluidly connect the cooling fluid return to one or more device coolant channels.

[0019] The ablation device is configured to provide ablative energy to patient tissue to ablate the tissue. The ablation device can be any type of ablation device in which cooling of at least one portion of the device is desirable, including, for example, microwave ablation devices and radiofrequency ablation devices, both of which are well known in the art. The device can be a percutaneous ablation probe, such as an injection needle. Such an injection needle typically has a tip configured to penetrate tissue and a relatively rigid shaft so that the tip of the device can be advanced through the tissue. Alternatively, the device can be an ablation catheter, typically having a flexible shaft, configured to pass through a body passage, such as a pulmonary passage, intestinal passage, urinary passage, and passage of the reproductive system or blood vessels. Such a device can be configured to penetrate tissue or can be blunt-tipped.

[0020] The ablation device typically includes a long shaft having a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end of the shaft terminates in a tip that can be configured to penetrate tissue or can be blunt to reduce tissue trauma. The shaft can include an ablative energy supply line, for example, which can be a coaxial cable having an inner conductor and an outer conductor with a dielectric between the inner conductor and the outer conductor. The device includes a radiating region at the distal end that is configured to deliver ablative energy to the tissue. Depending on the ablation method, the device can have one of a variety of antenna configurations. The proximal end of the feed line can be attached to a cable (typically a coaxial cable) that connects the device to an energy generator to provide ablative energy to the device.

[0021] The ablation device has one or more internal coolant channels configured to circulate coolant within the device. These channels allow the coolant to cool the device or its components and are typically in fluid communication with a device coolant supply line, which is configured to deliver coolant to the device's internal coolant channels, and a device coolant return line, which delivers coolant away from the channels. Thus, the device coolant supply line and the device coolant return line can be in fluid communication with each other via the device's internal coolant channels.

[0022] The internal coolant channels are arranged to cool the structure of the device, for example the channels may be arranged to cool at least a portion of any of the following (if present), among others: a feed line, a sheath, an antenna, a radiating section, a choke, a balancer, a device tip, a hub or any other desired part or feature of the device.

[0023] The device has a device coolant inlet and a device coolant outlet, to which a device coolant supply line and a coolant return line can be permanently connected, respectively, or the lines can be provided with releasable connectors, such as for releasable connection. Connectors. Optionally, they are permanently connected to reduce the number of connections during installation.

[0024] The system also includes a manifold configured to distribute cooling fluid from a coolant fluid source to one or more surgical ablation devices (such as an IV bag) and to receive return coolant from the devices and direct the return fluid back to the coolant fluid source or to waste.

[0025] The coolant distribution manifold allows one or more, and in particular at least two (e.g., two, three, or more), devices to be fluidically connected to the same coolant source, depending on the needs of the procedure, using only a pair of coolant supply lines: a coolant system supply line fluidically connectable between the manifold and the coolant fluid source, and a coolant system return line connectable between the manifold and the coolant fluid source or to waste. In this way, the number of lines from the cooling fluid source to the pump can be reduced, reducing the likelihood of leaks and errors when connecting the lines. To minimize the number of fluid-filled containers, the cooling fluid return line can be configured to return the cooling fluid to the cooling fluid source to form a recirculating cooling system. Thus, the coolant fluid supply line and the coolant fluid return line can include connectors for reversible connection to the coolant source or waste source, as appropriate.

[0026] The manifold is configured to fluidically connect a cooling fluid source to at least one manifold fluid outlet port, in particular via a normally closed manifold outlet valve. Optionally, the manifold is further configured to fluidically connect a coolant system return line to the manifold fluid inlet port, in particular via a normally closed manifold fluid inlet valve. The cooling fluid source can be fluidically connected to the manifold via a coolant system supply line, while the coolant system return line fluidically connects the manifold to waste or a cooling fluid source for recovering the cooling fluid. The coolant system supply line and the coolant system return line can optionally be permanently connected to the manifold to provide a convenient, connector-free system.

[0027] The manifold optionally includes a manifold supply conduit fluidly connected to the coolant system supply line. The manifold inlet conduit is configured to distribute coolant from the coolant supply to the manifold outlet ports. Typically, the conduit is branched, having a branch in fluid communication with each manifold outlet port. The manifold supply conduit is fluidly connected to one or more of these outlet ports. In an advantageous embodiment, the manifold supply conduit can be fluidly connected via a normally closed manifold outlet valve.

[0028] In this approach, each branch of the manifold supply conduit includes a manifold outlet valve in fluid connection with the manifold outlet port. These valves prevent the cooling fluid from flowing out of the outlet port unless the outlet valve is opened. The valve can be a one-way valve or a check valve, such as a check valve that typically operates on a pressure differential between the inlet and outlet sides. Valves such as those known as umbrella valves or duckbill valves can be used.

[0029] Connect the supply fitting to the manifold outlet port, open the manifold outlet valve, and fluidly connect the manifold supply conduit with the equipment coolant supply line, thereby placing the cooling fluid supply in fluid communication, either directly or indirectly, with the equipment coolant passages.

[0030] The manifold outlet valve can be opened in a variety of ways by connection of a supply connector. In one example, an actuator within the port may contact the supply connector and be displaced. The displacement of the actuator may result in the opening of the valve. Alternatively, the valve may be configured so that the distal end of the connector contacts the valve and displaces it from its seat during the connection process, for example, a ball valve may be displaced from its seat in this manner, or the flap of an umbrella valve may be lifted. In one arrangement, the valve seat of the umbrella valve may include a channel that receives a protrusion arranged at the distal end of the supply connector. In this way, the protrusion may pass through the valve seat and displace the valve from its seat. In the case of a duckbill valve, for example, connection of the connector may result in the distal portion of the connector contacting the duckbill portion, causing it to open, for example, an extension of the connector may displace the two sides of the "duckbill" to allow fluid to flow.

[0031] The manifold may also include a manifold return conduit fluidically connected to the coolant system return line. The manifold return conduit is configured to collect coolant from each manifold inlet port. Typically, the inlet conduit is branched, with a branch conduit that is in fluid communication with each manifold inlet port. In a preferred embodiment, the return conduit is fluidically connected to one or more of these inlet ports, each of which is connected via a separate, normally closed manifold inlet valve. Therefore, each branch of the manifold return conduit may include a manifold inlet valve that is fluidically connected to the manifold inlet port. These valves are configured to prevent cooling fluid from flowing out of the inlet port (i.e., flowing in a direction opposite to the return flow) unless the outlet valve is opened. In a preferred embodiment, the manifold inlet valves can be configured to be opened by the return flow from the device, although they can also be configured in the same manner as the manifold outlet valves, opening when the return connection is connected. In either case, the valve can be a one-way valve or a check valve. It can be a check valve that operates based on the pressure difference between the inlet and outlet sides, opening when the pressure on the inlet side is higher. In particular, the manifold inlet valve may also be of a type known as an umbrella valve. Thus, in an optional embodiment, a return fitting is connected to the manifold inlet port, placing the manifold supply conduit in fluid communication with the equipment coolant return line, thereby placing the equipment coolant passage in fluid communication, directly or indirectly, with the cooling fluid return line, only when the fluid pressure on the equipment side of the valve is higher than the manifold side, such as when fluid is pumped around the conduit.

[0032] The ports can be arranged in inlet-outlet pairs to make connections easier. Flow through each pair of manifold inlet ports and manifold outlet ports can be arranged in parallel with flow through other port pairs. With this arrangement, flow disturbances (such as a blockage in the coolant conduit of one device) do not affect the flow of other devices on the same manifold. Furthermore, devices can be connected and disconnected from any pair of ports without interrupting flow at other ports. Having each manifold outlet valve and manifold inlet valve configured to prevent outflow from the manifold reduces the chance of leakage from the manifold during setup and / or when one or more pairs of ports are not in use.

[0033] Depending on the design of the supply and return connectors, the manifold inlet and outlet ports can be male or female. Each port has a proximal end facing the manifold and a distal end facing away from the manifold. In one advantageous embodiment, the manifold outlet port includes a manifold outlet valve, as this arrangement makes it easier to connect the supply connector to the port and open the valve. The manifold inlet port can also be arranged in this manner.

[0034] The port can optionally be of female configuration, with the valve positioned toward the proximal end of the port (i.e., toward the base end). Optionally, the port can have a generally frustoconical port wall that tapers toward the base end to facilitate connection, and can include a seal, such as an O-ring seal, configured to engage with the supply or return connector, respectively, to prevent leakage. Alternatively, the O-ring can be positioned on the connector.

[0035] The equipment coolant conduit is configured with a coolant inlet through which coolant can enter the conduit from the manifold, and a coolant outlet through which coolant can exit the conduit and flow back to the manifold. The equipment coolant conduit is configured to be connectable to the manifold to fluidly connect a cooling fluid supply to one or more equipment coolant channels, and optionally to fluidly connect the equipment coolant channels to the coolant supply for circulation or disposal of the coolant.

[0036] The equipment coolant supply line includes a supply line coolant inlet. Optionally, the supply line includes a supply connector disposed at the coolant inlet for connection to a manifold outlet port, as described in detail below. In one advantageous embodiment, the supply connector is configured to cause the manifold outlet valve to open when connected to the manifold outlet port.

[0037] The supply connector has a proximal end facing the device coolant supply line and a distal end away from the supply line; and may include a supply connector coolant conduit that includes a coolant inlet and is in fluid communication with the device coolant supply line. In this way, when the device is connected to the manifold described herein, the connector can connect the manifold coolant inflow conduit and the coolant supply portion to the device coolant supply line fluid. The supply connector can be male or female, but can be male. The connector can be configured to make a fluid-tight connection with the manifold outlet port so that fluid from the manifold can be delivered to the device coolant supply line to cool the device without leakage. In one advantageous arrangement, the supply connector is male and, optionally, is generally frustoconical in shape that tapers toward the distal end.

[0038] In one advantageous embodiment, connecting the supply connector to the manifold outlet port causes the manifold outlet valve to open. For example, the supply connector can be configured to contact the manifold outlet valve upon connection, thereby opening it. For example, the connector can include one or more features configured to cause the manifold outlet valve to open upon connection of the connector to the port. These features can include, for example, one or more protrusions configured to contact the valve upon connection and cause it to open.

[0039] For example, the protrusion can press the ball of a ball valve off its seat, or can lift the disc of an umbrella valve or separate the two sides of a duckbill valve. This arrangement is particularly useful where the connector is male, in which case the feature is optionally provided at the distal end of the connector, although the protrusion can also be used where the connector is female.

[0040] The device coolant return line can be configured to return the coolant fluid to waste or to return the fluid to the fluid supply. In this way, the returning fluid can be circulated. The device coolant return line includes a return line coolant outlet. In one advantageous arrangement, the device coolant return line includes a return connector. The return connector is disposed at the coolant outlet and is configured to connect to the manifold inlet port, as described in detail below. The connector includes a return connector coolant conduit, which includes a coolant outlet and is in fluid communication with the device coolant return line. This enables the connector to connect the manifold outflow conduit to the device coolant return line fluid when the device is connected to the manifold. The connector can be in male or female form, but can be in male form. The return connector can cause the manifold inlet valve to open when connected, such as in the same manner as the supply connector. In one approach, the manifold inlet valve is configured to open by the return flow of the device.

[0041] In one advantageous embodiment, the supply and return connectors are arranged in an arrangement configured to connect simultaneously to the manifold fluid outlet port and the manifold fluid inlet port, respectively. This provides a more stable connection to the manifold and improves the convenience of port connection. For example, the supply and return connectors can be mounted together on a cartridge or cartridge, such as a plug, which holds them in a configuration for simultaneous insertion into the supply and return ports.

[0042] In another advantageous embodiment, the ablation system may additionally include a pump configured to pump cooling fluid through the cooling circuit and thereby through the coolant channel of the device. The pump may include a pump head including a pumping mechanism, for example, which may include at least one peristaltic roller, pump blades, pump gears, pump impellers, pump rotors, pump screws, pump pistons or pump diaphragms; and a fluid conduit on or in which the pumping mechanism acts to pump the fluid. The pump head may be configured to be detachably connected to a pump head driver. The pump may also include a pump head driver configured to drive the pump head (including the fluid drive mechanism) to pump the cooling fluid through the cooling circuit. The detachable pump head may also include a drive connector configured to engage with the pump head driver. The pump may include a pump rotor configured to drive the pump driver. The pump may be arranged in the cooling circuit between the cooling circuit inlet and the cooling circuit outlet.

[0043] In one embodiment, the cooling circuit is configured to be connected to a pump so that the cooling fluid can be pumped along the cooling circuit. Alternatively, the cooling circuit includes a pumping portion configured to be removably connected to a pump driver, wherein the connection to the pump driver enables the cooling fluid to be pumped along the circuit. The device coolant supply or device coolant return may include the pumping portion. The fluid conduit may be in fluid communication with the device coolant channel.

[0044] In an advantageous embodiment, the pumping portion comprises a detachable pump head configured to be reversibly connected to a pump driver. The pump head may then be disposable. The pump head may be permanently connected to the fluid of the device cooling circuit. The pump head may comprise a pumping mechanism, which may be at least one peristaltic roller, pump blades, pump gears, pump rotors, pump screws, pump pistons, pump impellers or pump diaphragms; and a fluid conduit on or in which the pumping mechanism acts to pump the fluid. The pump head may be configured to be detachably connected to a pump driver configured to drive the fluid drive mechanism to pump the cooling fluid through the cooling circuit.

[0045] In one advantageous embodiment, the cooling circuit may include a pump tube configured to releasably engage a pump head of a peristaltic pump. The pumping portion may be a region of the device cooling circuit configured as a pump tube. The pump tube is in fluid communication with the coolant channels of the device. The tube will be in fluid communication, directly or indirectly, with the device coolant supply line, so that the action of the pump roller on the tube will pump the coolant through the device coolant channels. The pumping portion (pump tube) may be separate from the pump, without the pump head and pump roller, so that the cooling circuit and the device do not need to be provided together with the mechanical portion of the peristaltic pump.

[0046] The tube may conveniently form part of a coolant supply or return line, comprised of a suitable elastic material (e.g., a polymer-based tube such as silicone, a thermoplastic elastomer such as Bioprene, PVC), or may be a suitable length of elastic tubing forming at least a portion of the supply or return line. The device coolant supply line or the device coolant return line may comprise a pump tube. The pump tube may be configured to releasably engage a peristaltic pump head (i.e., a roller).

[0047] The pump tubing may include securing means for retaining the tubing in such engagement with the pump head.

[0048] In one advantageous embodiment, the pump tubing may be housed in a cartridge configured to retain the pump tubing in releasable engagement with the pump head rollers.

[0049] In an advantageous embodiment, the supply joint and optionally the return joint can be arranged as parts of the cartridge, and the cartridge can additionally include a pumping portion, such as a pump head, particularly a fluid drive mechanism drive joint (or the tube of a peristaltic pump). This scheme is useful because it is convenient to operate them as a whole. This has an advantage, for example, it allows multiple connections in one operation. The joint of supply and return can be arranged into a layout that is configured to be connected simultaneously with the manifold fluid outlet port and the manifold fluid inlet port respectively. The cartridge allows the pump head, particularly the fluid drive mechanism drive joint (or the tube of a peristaltic pump) and the supply and return joint to remain in a fixed spatial arrangement, so that the three components are configured for, when the pump head and particularly the fluid drive mechanism drive joint (or the tube of a peristaltic pump) are connected to the pump driver, the joint is connected to the port.

[0050] When the pumping portion includes a detachable pump head, the cartridge may be additionally configured to releasably engage the pump head with the pump head driver. The cartridge may be configured such that upon engaging the pump head with the pump driver, the supply connector and the return connector may be simultaneously connected to the inlet port and the outlet port, respectively, of the manifold.

[0051] The cartridge can be further configured to direct the supply and return connectors to connect with the inlet and outlet ports, to direct the pump head to engage with the pump driver, or both. The cartridge can include features, for example, configured to direct engagement with the manifold, the pump, or both. These features include, for example, guide pins that engage with guides, such as slots or holes on the manifold, or vice versa, or slideways that engage with the flow path. Alternatively or additionally, the pump head can be received in a recess in the pump housing that is configured to receive the pump head, or vice versa. For example, either or both can be configured to receive in only one direction.

[0052] The cartridge may also be configured to clamp into engagement with the pump to retain the pump head in engagement with the pump head driver.

[0053] Where the pumping portion comprises pump tubing of a peristaltic pump, the pump tubing may be provided in a cartridge configured to releasably engage the peristaltic pump for releasably engaging the pump tubing with the pump head roller.

[0054] The cartridge may advantageously further comprise a surface configured to receive the pump tubing; for example, the surface may be a surface on which the elastic tubing is arranged to be compressed by the rollers during operation of the pump. The surface may have the shape of a segment of a circle and may further comprise a groove extending along at least a portion of the surface for receiving the pump tubing.

[0055] The cartridge may additionally include a supply connector for connection to the manifold outlet port; optionally, the cartridge includes supply and return connectors that may be provided in an arrangement configured to connect to both the manifold fluid outlet port and the manifold fluid inlet port.

[0056] To improve connector position accuracy, the cartridge and manifold can be configured to have a guided engagement (not between the ports and the connectors) to guide the supply and return connectors to connect with the respective manifold ports. For example, the manifold can be configured to receive a portion of the cartridge in a sliding and / or guided engagement. The cartridge can also be configured to clamp into engagement with a peristaltic pump to engage the pump tubing with the roller function.

[0057] The cartridge may additionally include supports for the device coolant supply and / or return lines, such as clamps or other features configured to hold the lines in place.

[0058] To assist in guiding the pump tubing into engagement with the pump rollers, the cartridge may be configured to be in guiding engagement with the pump. For example, the pump housing or other portion of the pump may be configured to be in guiding engagement with the cartridge, or vice versa.

[0059] To aid in setup, the manifold can be configured to releasably engage with the pump (e.g., with the pump housing). This can hold the manifold in place while the system is being set up. For example, the manifold can include one or more releasable connectors configured to engage with a portion of the pump (e.g., the pump housing), or vice versa. Alternatively, or in addition, the manifold can also be configured to engage with a recess in a portion of the pump (e.g., the pump housing).

[0060] It is also advantageous that the system is configured to maintain the manifold port in a fixed spatial arrangement with the pump. For example, when the pump head is detachable, the manifold port can be maintained in a fixed spatial arrangement with the pump driver, spindle or drive connector, etc. When the pumping portion is a pump tube, the manifold port can be maintained in a fixed spatial arrangement with the pump head roller, etc. This helps to guide the connector to connect with the port while the pump tube is guided to engage with the pump driver or pump roller. This approach is particularly useful when the pump head or pump tube and connector are arranged as components of a cartridge because it facilitates operation of them as a whole.

[0061] Thus, in one approach, the manifold and pump are configured for releasable engagement so as to retain the manifold port with the pump (e.g., with the pump drive or with the pump head rollers) in a configuration that allows a connector to be connected to the port and allows the pump tubing to engage with the pump head rollers (or allows the pump head to engage with the pump drive).

[0062] For example, the manifold can be configured to releasably engage with the pump (e.g., the pump housing) in a fixed spatial arrangement configured to hold the outlet port and the inlet port with the driver or pump roller (as applicable). The manifold can include one or more releasable connectors configured to engage with a portion of the pump (such as the pump housing) and vice versa. Alternatively, or additionally, the manifold can be configured to engage with a recess in a portion of the pump (such as the pump housing).

[0063] In a second aspect, the present invention further provides a surgical ablation device as described herein, for use in the ablation system of the first aspect. Therefore, the present invention further provides a surgical ablation device, the device comprising one or more device coolant channels therein for delivering a coolant fluid to cool at least a portion of the device; the ablation device is provided with: a device coolant supply line configured to deliver coolant to the device coolant channel, the device coolant supply line comprising a supply connector; a device coolant return line configured to receive coolant outflow from the device coolant channel, the device coolant supply line and the device coolant return line being fluidically connected via the device coolant channel. The device coolant supply line, the coolant channel, and the device coolant return line define a cooling circuit segment between the supply connector and the return connector; the cooling circuit segment comprises a pumping portion configured to pump the cooling fluid through the device coolant channel.

[0064] The equipment coolant return line may include a return connector. The supply connector may include one or more protrusions.

[0065] Supply and return connectors (if present) may be provided on a cartridge that additionally includes a pumping portion as described elsewhere herein. For example, the pumping portion may include a detachable pump head that is configured to releasably engage with a pump driver, or may include a tube configured to function as a pump tube for a peristaltic pump that is configured to releasably engage with the pump head of the peristaltic pump. For example, the tube may be provided on a cartridge as described elsewhere herein that may additionally include a supply connector and an optional return connector. The supply connector may be configured to be connected to a manifold outlet port of a coolant distribution manifold, while the return connector may be configured to be connected to a manifold inlet port of the coolant distribution manifold. In particular, the coolant distribution manifold may be configured to fluidly connect a cooling fluid supply to at least one manifold fluid outlet port and to connect at least one coolant return to a cooling system return.

[0066] In a third aspect, the present invention additionally provides a coolant distribution manifold for distributing coolant fluid to one or more surgical ablation tools described in the first and second aspects herein. Accordingly, the present invention also provides a coolant distribution manifold for distributing coolant fluid to one or more surgical ablation tools. The coolant distribution manifold may include a manifold fluid supply inlet, a manifold fluid return outlet, at least one manifold fluid outlet port, at least one manifold fluid inlet port, and a manifold inlet conduit, and a manifold outlet conduit. The manifold inlet conduit may be configured to distribute cooling fluid from the manifold fluid supply inlet to each shunt fluid outlet port. The manifold outlet conduit may be configured to distribute cooling fluid from each manifold fluid inlet port to the manifold fluid return outlet. The supply conduit may be in fluid communication with each outlet port via a normally closed manifold outlet valve. Each manifold outlet port may be configured for fluid-tight connection to a supply connector. Each manifold outlet valve may be configured to be opened by connection of the supply connector to the outlet port.

[0067] In one advantageous embodiment, the return conduit may be in fluid communication with each inlet port via a normally closed manifold inlet valve. Each manifold inlet port may be configured for fluid-tight connection to a supply connector. Each manifold inlet valve may be configured to open when the supply connector is connected to the outlet port.

[0068] The manifold fluid supply inlet may be configured for connection to a system fluid supply line, such as, for example, by providing a connector such as The type of connector, or the fluid supply inlet can be permanently connected to the system fluid supply line. Likewise, the fluid return inlet of the manifold can also be similarly configured, or the fluid return inlet can be permanently connected to the system return line. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0069] The present invention will now be further described by way of the following non-limiting examples and with reference to the accompanying drawings. These are provided for illustrative purposes only, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate other examples within the scope of the claims. All references cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In any conflict between such references and the present application, the present application shall prevail.

[0070] Figure 1 is a simplified illustration of a cooling system according to the present invention. The system 1 includes an ablation device, in this case a microwave ablation probe in the form of a microwave ablation needle 2, which is configured to deliver microwave energy to patient tissue to ablate the tissue. The cooling system can also be used with other cooled ablation devices, such as radiofrequency (RF) ablation devices.

[0071] Microwave ablation device 2 has a tip 3 configured to penetrate tissue and an elongated shaft having a proximal end 5 and a distal end 6. The shaft encloses a coolant channel 14 and a feeder line 7, which can be a coaxial cable having an inner conductor and an outer conductor with a dielectric between the inner and outer conductors (not shown in this figure). The feeder line includes a radiating region 8 at the distal end, which includes a microwave antenna 4. The proximal end of the feeder line 7 can be attached to a cable 9 (typically a coaxial cable) that connects the device 2 to a microwave generator 10 to provide microwave energy to the device. The cable can be releasably connected or, as in this example, permanently attached to the device.

[0072] The device is provided with coolant via a device coolant supply line 11, which may be permanently connected to the device coolant inlet 12. In some embodiments, the device coolant supply line may alternatively be releasably connected to the coolant inlet 12, such as via Type connector. The device coolant inlet 12 is in fluid communication with the device coolant outlet 13 via a series of coolant channels 14, 15, 16 configured to circulate coolant within the device. In this simplified representation, coolant enters the device via the coolant inlet 12 through the coolant channel 15, circulates through the coolant channel 14 to cool the device, and exits via the coolant outlet pipe 13 and the device coolant return line 17.

[0073] The system 1 is provided with a manifold 18 that receives coolant fluid from a coolant fluid source 19 via a coolant system supply line 20. The coolant system supply line 20 may be permanently connected to the manifold 18 at a manifold fluid supply inlet 250, or it may be releasably connected to the supply inlet 250, for example, by Connector. The coolant fluid source can be, for example, an IV bag. The inflowing coolant can be distributed to one or more manifold outlet ports 21 via the manifold inflow conduit 22. In one advantageous embodiment, as Figure 1 As shown, coolant flow out of port 21 can be controlled by a manifold outlet valve 23. This valve is normally in the closed position.

[0074] The manifold 18 also includes a manifold coolant outflow conduit 24 that provides a fluid connection between one or more manifold fluid inlet ports 25 and a coolant system return line 26. The coolant system return line 26 may be permanently connected to the manifold 18 at a manifold fluid return port 251, or may be releasably connected to a supply inlet 250, such as by In one advantageous embodiment, manifold inlet valves 27 control the flow through each inlet port and may also be normally closed.

[0075] The supply connector 29 is configured to connect to the manifold outlet port 21. The system may also include a return connector 33, which is configured to connect to the manifold inlet port. In an advantageous embodiment, the manifold outlet valve 23 can be configured to open when the supply connector 29 is connected. In one approach, the supply connector can include a protrusion 30 that causes the valve to open when the connector 29 is connected to the port 21, but other arrangements are possible, as discussed elsewhere herein.

[0076] A coolant circuit coolant inlet 31 on the supply connector 29 is in fluid communication with the equipment coolant supply line 11 such that connecting the supply connector 29 to the outlet port 21 places the cooling circuit 32 in fluid communication with the cooling fluid supply 19 .

[0077] The return junction 33 may have a coolant conduit outlet 34 in fluid communication with the equipment coolant return line 17. The supply junction 29 and the return junction 33 may be arranged to connect simultaneously with the manifold outlet port 21 and the inlet port 25, respectively.

[0078] A pumping section 35 may be arranged in the device cooling circuit 32, and for example may be arranged in the supply line 11, and is arranged to circulate the coolant through the device 2. In this case, the pump is a disposable pump head 36 having pump blades 37, permanently connected in the device coolant supply line, and adapted to be connected to a pump head drive (not shown). Alternative pumping sections are described elsewhere herein.

[0079] Figure 2 illustrates one arrangement of manifold outlet ports and supply connections. Figure 2A illustrates the separated joints, Figure 2B The connected joints are illustrated. Figure 2C is a view of a portion of the supply connector. Figure 2D It is a detailed cross-sectional view of an umbrella valve and its seat. Figure 2E is an illustration of the valve and valve seat viewed from below. Figure 2F is an enlarged view of the connected supply fitting.

[0080] The manifold 18 includes one or more manifold outlet ports 21 having a proximal end 40 and a distal end 41. In an advantageous embodiment, the outlet port may include a manifold outlet valve 23. The valve may be positioned toward the proximal end 40 of the port and may be held in place against an annular ridge 52. In one version, the outlet valve 23 may be an umbrella valve having a valve seat 42 and a valve diaphragm 43 supported on a valve stem 44 extending through the valve seat 42 and held in place by a retainer 45. The umbrella valve diaphragm 43 may be comprised of an elastomeric material and integral with the valve stem 44 and retainer 45. The diaphragm 43 closes off one or more flow passages 46, preventing flow from the port 21. This arrangement Figure 2D and 2E The port may include an "O" ring seal 47 which may be secured within a retaining groove 48 and seal against the supply connector 29.

[0081] In one version, the supply connector 29 includes one or more projections 30 at its distal end 50 that extend through the flow passage 46 and dislodge the valve membrane 43 from its seat 42 to allow coolant to pass through the valve and into the coolant circuit inlet 31 .

[0082] Figure 2B 2 and 3. The connection between the manifold outlet port 21 and the supply connector 29 is shown in FIG. The supply connector 29 engages the port 21 and may be sealed by an O-ring 47 which may engage an annular groove (not shown) on the supply connector or may seal against a surface 53 of the supply connector 29. The protrusion 30 on the distal end 50 of the supply connector 29 passes through one or more flow passages 46 when connected to push the valve diaphragm 43 away from its valve seat 42, allowing coolant to pass. This method is Figure 2F More detailed description is given in .

[0083] Figure 2CA supply connector 29 is illustrated having a distal end 50. In one aspect, the distal end can include a protrusion 30 configured to cause the manifold outlet valve 23 to open when the connector is connected to the outlet port. This allows cooling fluid to enter the device coolant fluid supply line 11 via the coolant circuit coolant inlet 31. The supply connector can have a generally frustoconical portion 53 at the distal end that is configured to engage the manifold outlet port 21 and can have an annular groove 51 that engages the O-ring 47 of the outlet port 21.

[0084] Figure 3 illustrates a simplified representation of the cartridge, pump, and manifold arrangement.

[0085] Figure 3A , a portion of a cooling system for a surgical ablation device 100 is shown in FIG. A cartridge 101 is configured to house a pump tube 104, which abuts a roller 105 of a peristaltic pump 106. The pump tube 104 can be an integral part of the device coolant supply line 102 (as shown), although in other arrangements the pump tube can be a separate tube fluidly connected to the supply or return line. The ablation device 100 is not shown in this figure. In operation, the rotating pump roller 105 can act on the pump tube 104 to drive cooling fluid toward the surgical ablation device 100. The pump tube 104 can be compressed against a surface 107 to assist the peristaltic action of the pump 106. The device coolant supply line 11 can be guided along the cartridge by a series of spikes 108 and terminate at a supply connector 29. The device coolant return line 17 can enter the cartridge at an opening 109. It terminates at a return connector 33. The cartridge may be provided with a gripping portion 110 which may be gripped and pressed forward into an opening 111 of a peristaltic pump housing 112, causing the pump tubing 104 to be driven against the rollers 105 of the peristaltic pump 106. The cartridge may then be held in place by a clamping mechanism, in this case a clamping screw 113 which acts against a recess 114 in the cartridge housing 115.

[0086] The supply connector 29 and the return connector 33 can both be mounted on extensions of the cartridge 116. Figure 3 illustrates an example of a manifold support 130, which can have a shelf 121 and a receiving surface 131; the support can receive the manifold 18. The shelf 121 can provide support for the manifold 18 when the system is assembled. The manifold support 130 can hold the manifold 18 in a spatial arrangement with the peristaltic pump head 122 such that the supply connector 29 and the return connector 33 are connected to the manifold fluid outlet port 21 and the manifold fluid inlet port 25, respectively, and also allows the pump tube 104 to be functionally engaged with the pump head 122. Clamping the cartridge can also engage the manifold with the manifold support 130. This can help hold the arrangement in place.

[0087] Manifold 18 has a connection with the fluid source (see Figure 119), such as an IV bag, is fluidically connected to a coolant system supply line 20. Supply line 20 delivers cooling fluid to manifold 18, which is shown simplified for ease of illustration. The cooling fluid is delivered to manifold fluid outlet port 21. This port may have a valve 23 that opens when supply connector 29 is connected. In one embodiment, this is achieved by a protrusion 30 on the distal end 50 of supply connector 29, allowing coolant to flow into the device's coolant supply line 11.

[0088] Likewise, the manifold fluid inlet port 25 may also include a valve 27. This may be opened in the same manner as the outlet valve 23, but the valve 27 may also be opened by the pressure of fluid returning from the device 100 via the device coolant return line 17. The cooling fluid may then enter the coolant system return line 26 via the manifold 18 and then be discarded or recycled.

[0089] Figure 3B A detailed view of the arrangement of the manifold 18, the shelf 121, and the cartridge extension 116 is illustrated. Shown here is a simplified view of the manifold 18, with only one manifold inlet port 25 and outlet port 21. The manifold 18 has a back surface 132 and a front surface 133. Functionally engaging the pump tubing 104 with the pump rollers 105 advantageously connects the supply fitting 29 to the manifold fluid outlet port 21 and opens the manifold outlet valve 23. It is also possible to connect the return fitting to the manifold inlet port 25 and, in one embodiment, clamp the manifold 18 between the support surface 131 and the cartridge protrusion 116. The back surface 132 of the manifold 18 can then be held against the support surface 131.

[0090] Figure 4 FIG4 is a schematic diagram of a cooling system 400 showing a pump control box 401 having a pump housing 450 containing an arrangement of peristaltic pumps having three sets of pump head rollers (not visible in this view) and adapted to control the cooling of three separate ablation devices, one of which is shown as 403. Figure 3A .

[0091] The manifold 18 is connected to a cooling system supply line 20 that distributes cooling fluid from a cooling fluid source (not shown) to a manifold fluid outlet port 21, and a cooling system return line 26 that receives return cooling fluid from a manifold fluid inlet port 25 and returns it to the source or waste. The manifold 18 is received by a manifold support 130, which can be configured to hold the manifold in place during system assembly. In this example, the manifold support 130 is in the form of a recess 404 in a control box 401 that is shaped to receive the manifold 18. The recess has a shelf 121 and a receiving surface 131.

[0092] Refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the pump housing 112 can have a recess 111 configured to receive the distal end 150 of the cartridge 101. The peristaltic pump roller 105 can be disposed within the recess 111 ( FIG. 3 ). The cartridge 101 is configured to present the pump tubing 104 to the pump head roller (105 , FIG. 3 ) so that the pump tubing 104 functionally engages the roller 105. The manifold 18 can include a guide, such as in the form of a recess 406. The guide 406 can be configured to engage with the cartridge 101 and guide it into the recess 405. For example, the guide 406 can be configured as a channel having a curved portion that can be configured to engage with a curved lower surface 407 of the cartridge 101.

[0093] In this example, the ablation device 100 is in the form of a needle, which may be a microwave ablation needle or an RF ablation needle. The device may have a cable harness 9, which includes a cable for receiving an energy supply (not shown, see FIG. Figure 1 ) energy delivery cables for delivering ablative energy to the device, and may also include cables from sensors (such as temperature sensor 28 and / or flow sensor 38 within the device) to a control system. The cables may terminate in one or more connectors (not shown in this view, but may be provided, for example, at the distal end 150 of the cartridge lower arm 151) for connecting the cables to an energy supply and control system and / or a data acquisition system, such that the connection is made when the pump tube 104 engages the pump roller 105.

[0094] The device 100 has a device cooling circuit, which includes a device coolant supply line 11 and a device coolant return line 17, which is connected to the device via one or more device coolant channels 14, 15, 16 (not shown in this figure, see Figure 1 14, 15, 16). The device coolant supply line 110 may enter the cartridge 101 at an opening 109 and terminate at a supply connector 29. The supply connector may be provided on an extension 116 of the cartridge. A portion of the device coolant supply line 110 may be configured as a pump tube 104 of a peristaltic pump such that operation of the pump may drive the coolant fluid to circulate in the device coolant channels 14, 15, 16. The device coolant return line 17 terminates at a return connector 33, which may be located adjacent to the supply connector (see FIG. Figure 4 ).

[0095] In operation, the cooling system supply line 20 can be connected via a standard bag nail (60 Figure 1) is connected to a cooling system supply, such as an IV bag. The cooling system return line 26 can also be connected to waste, or it can be connected to an IV bag. This allows cooling fluid to enter the manifold 18, but because the inlet valve 27 and the outlet valve 23 are normally closed, the manifold 18 will not leak. The manifold 18 can be received in a manifold bracket 130. The manifold 18 can be configured to releasably engage with the pump housing 112. To this end, the manifold can include one or more releasable connectors that are configured to engage with the pump housing 112, for example, connectors that can extend from the back 132 of the manifold 18 and engage with connectors on the pump housing 112. In one approach, nails extending from the back of the manifold 18, not visible in this view, engage with a series of nail receivers 155 on the housing, for example on the support surface 130 of the manifold bracket 130, to provide a releasable connection between the manifold 18 and the pump housing 112.

[0096] The cartridge can then be pushed into recess 111 to functionally engage the pump tubing 104 with the pump roller 105. The cartridge can be guided into position by the sliding engagement of the curved lower surface 407 of the cartridge 101 with the guide recess 406 on the manifold 18, which provides proper alignment for connecting the pump tubing 104 to the roller 105, connecting the supply connector 29 to the manifold outlet port 21, and connecting the return connector 33 to the manifold inlet port 25. Connecting the supply connector 29 to the manifold outlet port 21 opens the manifold outlet valve 23, fluidly connecting the cooling system supply line 20 to the device coolant supply line 11, and completing the coolant supply to the device. Operation of the pump roller can then activate the cooling system.

[0097] Once in place, the cartridge may be held in place by operation of the clamping arms 160 which operate a clamping mechanism (not shown) to engage the cartridge 101 and hold it in place.

[0098] More devices can be added to the system, e.g. Figure 4 Up to two additional ablation devices may be added to the system by inserting their cartridges 101 directly into recess 111, engaging the pump tubing 104 with the pump rollers 105 of the peristaltic pump head, and operating the clamp 160 to hold the cartridges in place.

[0099] 5 illustrates an embodiment of a surgical ablation device cooling system having a pumping portion including a detachable pump head. Figure 5A A plan view of a cooling system 500 is shown having a pump 501, a manifold 18, and a cartridge 508 including a removable pump head 507. Figure 5B A cross-sectional side view at XY is shown. Figure 5C A partial cross-sectional side view at AB is shown.

[0100] Figure 5A is a plan view of a cooling system 500. The cooling system is configured to cool two ablation devices 2. The cooling system includes a pump 501 comprising two pump drivers 519, which in this example are driven by two rotors 513. The system includes a single manifold 18 configured to connect the two devices 2 to a cooling fluid supply 19. For ease of illustration, only one pump head 507 is shown.

[0101] The pump 501 has a pump housing 450. The pump housing may have a recess 502 for receiving the cooling fluid distribution manifold 18. In the figure, the manifold 18 receives a coolant fluid source 19 (e.g., see FIG. 1 ) via a coolant system supply line 20. Figure 1 ) receives coolant fluid. The coolant system supply line 20 can be permanently connected to the manifold 18 at the manifold fluid supply inlet 250, although in some embodiments it can be removable and connected via a connector. The coolant fluid follows the manifold inlet conduit 503 and is supplied to the manifold outlet port 21 via the inlet conduit branch 504. In some embodiments, as shown, the fluid supply to the manifold outlet port 21 can be via a manifold outlet valve 23. The valve is normally closed to allow flow out of the port in the direction of the device cooling channel (not shown) as shown by the flow arrows 505. The valve 23 can be located at the base of the port 21.

[0102] The system also includes cooling channels 14, 15, 16 (refer to Figure 1 ) An equipment coolant supply line 11 that supplies coolant fluid and an equipment coolant return line 17 that receives cooling fluid from equipment coolant channels 14, 15, 16.

[0103] The system can include a pumping portion 35, which in the example shown is in the form of a removable pump head 507. The pump head 507 can be provided as part of a cartridge 508. The cartridge can also include a supply connector 29 and, in some embodiments, a return connector 33, which is disposed on a bottom surface 509 of the cartridge 508. The cartridge can also include extensions of the device supply line 11 and return line 17, which fluidly connect the cooling circuit inlet 31 and the cooling circuit outlet 34 with the device coolant channels 14, 15, 16.

[0104] The detachable pump head can operate on any pumping principle to pump the cooling fluid through the cooling circuit, but in the case shown, includes a pump rotor 510 configured with a pumping space 511, within which the cooling fluid is acted upon to pump it through the coolant conduit 34. The pump 501 may include a pump rotor 513 and a pump drive 519 configured to drive the pump rotor. The pump rotor has a pump rotor main shaft 514. In this example, the main shaft is configured to be detachably connected to the pump head via the pump drive 519. In the example shown, the pump drive includes a magnetic coupler 516, which is configured to engage with a magnetic coupler 512 in a shaft 515 of the pump rotor to drive the rotor, although other coupling methods may be used.

[0105] In some embodiments, it is advantageous to configure the system to hold manifold ports 21, 25 in a spatial arrangement relative to pump 501 (particularly, pump driver 519). Thus, in use, manifold 18 can be placed, for example, in one recess 502. This holds the manifold in place during assembly and also positions ports 21, 25 in the correct arrangement for connection to connectors 23, 29 provided on cartridge 508. Holding manifold 18 in place relative to the pump (particularly, pump driver 519 or connector 516) also provides the advantage of allowing connectors 29, 33 to be connected to ports 21, 25 simultaneously with connection of pump driver 519 to pump head 507. This is particularly useful when pump head 507 and connectors 23, 29 are provided on cartridge 508, as it positions the three components in a fixed spatial arrangement suitable for simultaneous engagement of the ports and connectors with the pump driver, and it enables all three components to be operated as a single unit.

[0106] The pump head can be guided into position onto the driver by guide pins 531 engaging holes 532 and guiding the connector into position into the port.

[0107] Once the manifold 18 is in place, cooling fluid 530 may be admitted to the manifold 18. The manifold outlet valve is closed to prevent leakage.

[0108] The cartridge 508 can be attached, the pump driver 519 engaged with the pump head 507; at the same time, the supply connector 29 is connected to the manifold outlet port 21 and the return connector 33 is engaged with the manifold inlet port 25. In the illustrated example, when the supply connector 29 is engaged with the outlet port 21, the protrusion 30 on the supply connector 29 engages the manifold outlet valve 23, causing the valve to open. This allows cooling fluid to enter the pump and flow to the ablation device 2. Return fluid 506 enters the manifold 18 through the return connector 33. In some embodiments, such as the example shown in Figure 5, the manifold inlet valve 27 controls the flow through the inlet port. In this example, the valve can be a one-way valve that remains closed unless the fluid pressure on the upstream (device) side is higher. Therefore, the returning fluid causes the manifold inlet valve 27 to open and allows cooling fluid to pass through the manifold 18 to the return line 26 of the cooling system. From there, the fluid is either discarded or circulated into the cooling fluid pipeline.

Claims

1. A surgical ablation system comprising: a surgical ablation device comprising one or more device coolant channels configured to circulate a coolant within the device to cool at least a portion of the device; an equipment coolant supply line configured to deliver coolant to the equipment coolant channel; wherein the equipment coolant supply line includes a supply connector; an equipment coolant return line configured to receive an outflow of coolant from the equipment coolant passage, the equipment coolant supply line and the equipment coolant return line being in fluid communication via the equipment coolant passage, wherein the equipment coolant return line includes a return fitting; The equipment coolant supply line, the equipment coolant channel and the equipment coolant return line constitute an equipment cooling circuit; as well as a coolant distribution manifold configured to fluidly connect the supply connector to at least one manifold fluid outlet port and to fluidly connect the return connector to at least one manifold inlet port, the coolant distribution manifold being further configured to inhibit coolant flow through (i) the at least one inlet port and (ii) the at least one outlet port under normal circumstances and to open the at least one outlet port and the inlet port when the surgical ablation device is connected to the coolant distribution manifold such that the coolant distribution manifold does not leak when coolant enters the manifold; as well as A cartridge is provided, the supply connector and the return connector being provided as components of the cartridge, wherein the cartridge is configured to hold the supply connector and the return connector in an arrangement configured to simultaneously connect the supply connector and the return connector to a manifold outlet port and a manifold inlet port, respectively.

2. The surgical ablation system of claim 1, the supply connector being configured for connection to the manifold outlet port to fluidly connect a fluid source to the one or more device coolant channels.

3. A surgical ablation system as described in claim 2, wherein the manifold is configured to fluidly connect a cooling fluid source to the manifold outlet port via a normally closed manifold outlet valve, and wherein the supply connector is configured to open the manifold outlet valve when connected to the manifold outlet port.

4. The surgical ablation system of any preceding claim, wherein the manifold additionally comprises one or more manifold inlet ports, and wherein the return connector is configured to connect to a manifold inlet port.

5. The surgical ablation system of claim 4, wherein the manifold is configured to fluidly connect the device coolant return line with the manifold inlet port via a normally closed manifold inlet valve.

6. The surgical ablation system of claim 1, comprising a pump configured to pump cooling fluid through the cooling circuit.

7. The surgical ablation system of claim 6, wherein the pump comprises a pump driver configured to drive a pump head to pump the cooling fluid through the cooling circuit, and the cooling circuit comprises a pump head configured to be detachably connected to the pump driver.

8. The surgical ablation system of claim 7, wherein the pump head is disposed within the cartridge.

9. The surgical ablation system of claim 1, wherein the cooling circuit comprises a pump tube configured to releasably engage a pump head of a peristaltic pump.

10. A coolant distribution manifold for distributing coolant fluid to one or more surgical ablation devices; Each surgical ablation device has a device cooling circuit comprising: a device coolant supply line configured to deliver coolant to the surgical ablation device; a device coolant return line configured to receive an outflow of coolant from the ablation device; wherein the device coolant supply line includes a supply connector; and one or more device coolant channels within the ablation device configured to circulate coolant within the device to cool at least a portion of the device, the device coolant supply line being in fluid communication with the device coolant return line via the device coolant channels; wherein the device coolant return line includes a return connector; The manifold comprises: at least one manifold fluid outlet port; and a manifold supply conduit configured to distribute cooling fluid to the or each manifold fluid outlet port; the supply connector being fluidly connected to the or each manifold fluid outlet port via a normally closed manifold outlet valve, wherein the manifold is configured to fluidly connect a source of cooling fluid to at least one manifold fluid outlet port and to fluidly connect the return connector to the at least one manifold inlet port, the coolant distribution manifold being further configured to inhibit coolant flow through (i) at least one inlet port and (ii) at least one outlet port under normal circumstances, and to open the at least one outlet port and inlet port when the surgical ablation device is connected to the coolant distribution manifold so that the coolant distribution manifold does not leak when coolant enters the manifold; and A cartridge is provided, the supply connector and the return connector being provided as components of the cartridge, wherein the cartridge is configured to hold the supply connector and the return connector in an arrangement configured to simultaneously connect the supply connector and the return connector to a manifold outlet port and a manifold inlet port, respectively.

11. A coolant distribution manifold as described in claim 10, wherein the manifold outlet port or each manifold outlet port is configured to be fluid-tightly connected to the supply connector of the surgical ablation device; and wherein the manifold outlet valve or each manifold outlet valve is configured to be opened by the connection of the supply connector to the outlet port.

12. The coolant distribution manifold of claim 11, wherein the supply and return connections are disposed in an arrangement configured to simultaneously connect to the manifold fluid outlet port and manifold fluid inlet port, respectively.

13. The coolant distribution manifold of any one of claims 10 to 12, further comprising a pump configured to pump cooling fluid through the cooling circuit.

14. The coolant distribution manifold of claim 13, wherein the pump includes a pump driver configured to drive a pump head to pump the cooling fluid through the cooling circuit, and the cooling circuit includes a pump head configured to be removably connected to the pump driver.

15. The coolant distribution manifold of claim 14, wherein the pump head is disposed within the cartridge.

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