Device for skin and fat treatment

Abstract

Devices for tissue treatment and fat removal are provided. In one embodiment, a device comprises: a handpiece comprising a first portion configured to be positioned outside a patient's body proximate a tissue portion to be treated, and a second portion configured to be inserted into the patient's body below a skin tissue surface, proximate or within the tissue portion to be treated; and an RF system comprising an RF generator operable to generate an RF signal, and an electrode arrangement electrically coupled to the RF generator and operable to receive the RF signal to deliver RF energy to the tissue portion to cause at least one of destruction of adipose tissue cells and tissue compactness at the tissue portion. The electrode arrangement is mounted on the first portion or the second portion. The second portion may be free of an energy source and passively heated by including a conductive material located within the RF field. A temperature indication system may provide temperature data indicative of a temperature at the treated tissue portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosure relates to the field of aesthetic devices. In particular, but not exclusively, the disclosure relates to devices for skin treatment, including skin tightening and fat reduction or / and removal. Background Art

[0002] Adipose tissue, more commonly known as "fat", is formed by cells containing stored lipids. A single drop of lipid occupies most of the volume of a cell. Excessive adipose tissue (i.e., obesity) can be unhealthy because it causes various health problems on both physical and psychological levels in the human body. Obesity generally increases the risk of various conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, bronchitis, hypertension, diabetes, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, varicose veins, gallstones and hernia. Generally speaking, the skin tissue of a subject includes a dermis (deeper) layer and an epidermis (outer) layer thereon. Sweat gland ducts and hair follicles pass through the epidermis into the dermis. Just below the dermis is a plexus of subcutaneous small blood vessels. In addition, a layer of adipose tissue is arranged below the dermis, and its thickness varies from person to person. Some people's adipose tissue layer becomes quite large, and sometimes even extremely obese. For cosmetic and basic health reasons, it is desirable to eliminate some adipose tissue. Summary of the invention

[0003] Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the disclosure.Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the disclosure.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the disclosed subject matter, there is provided an apparatus for skin tissue treatment, comprising:

[0005] Handpiece, including:

[0006] a first portion configured to be positioned outside the patient's body proximate to a tissue portion to be treated,

[0007] a second portion configured to be inserted into a patient's body, positioned beneath a surface of skin tissue, adjacent to or within a tissue portion to be treated, and

[0008] An RF system comprising: an RF generator operable to generate an RF signal; and an electrode arrangement electrically connected to the RF generator and operable to receive the RF signal, thereby delivering RF energy to a tissue portion to cause at least one of destruction of adipose tissue cells and tissue tightening at the tissue portion, wherein the electrode arrangement is mounted on a first portion or on a second portion.

[0009] In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a controller in communication with the RF system to control the RF system to cause at least one of destruction of adipose tissue cells and tissue tightening at the tissue portion.

[0010] In some embodiments, the electrode arrangement is mounted on the first portion, and the second portion at least partially comprises or is made of a conductive material that, when subjected to RF energy having specific parameters, heats up and causes damage to adipose tissue cells adjacent thereto.

[0011] In some embodiments, the electrode arrangement includes a first sub-arrangement and a second sub-arrangement, wherein the first sub-arrangement is mounted on the first portion and is operable to cause tissue tightening on the skin surface of the tissue portion when activated, and the second sub-arrangement is mounted on the second portion and is operable to cause destruction of fat tissue cells at the tissue portion when activated.

[0012] In some embodiments, the second portion is hollow and includes a channel extending proximally from a distal end of the second portion and configured to extract liquefied fat from the tissue portion.

[0013] In some embodiments, the device includes a temperature indicating system configured to provide temperature data indicating the temperature of the tissue portion and / or the surrounding environment of the tissue portion. The temperature indicating system may include a temperature sensor mounted on the first portion and / or the second portion. The temperature indicating system may include a thermal camera configured and operable to provide temperature data in the form of visual data, which also indicates the position of the first portion within the tissue portion. The thermal camera may be mounted on the first portion and / or on a headset worn by a user. The visual data may be provided on glasses worn by the user.

[0014] In some embodiments, the electrode arrangement comprises at least one monopolar electrode. In some embodiments, the electrode arrangement comprises at least one bipolar electrode pair. In some embodiments, the electrode arrangement comprises at least one multipolar electrode group.

[0015] In some embodiments, the second portion is removably connectable to the handpiece, thereby enabling removal of the second portion and application of treatment to the skin surface of the tissue portion using only the first portion, the first portion having the electrode arrangement mounted thereon.

[0016] According to another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, there is provided an apparatus for skin tissue treatment, comprising:

[0017] Handheld detector, including:

[0018] a first portion configured to be positioned outside the patient's body proximate to a tissue portion to be treated,

[0019] a second portion configured to be inserted into a patient's body, positioned beneath a surface of skin tissue, adjacent to or within a tissue portion to be treated, and

[0020] An RF system comprising: an RF generator operable to generate an RF signal; and an electrode arrangement electrically connected to the RF generator and operable to receive the RF signal, thereby delivering RF energy to a tissue portion to cause at least one of destruction of adipose tissue cells and tissue tightening at the tissue portion, wherein the electrode arrangement is mounted on a first portion, and wherein the second portion at least partially comprises or is made of a conductive material, which, when subjected to RF energy having specific parameters, generates heat and causes at least one of destruction of adipose tissue cells and tissue tightening at the tissue portion.

[0021] In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a controller in communication with the RF system to control the RF system to cause at least one of destruction of adipose tissue cells and tissue tightening at the tissue portion.

[0022] In some embodiments, the second portion is hollow and includes a channel extending proximally from a distal end of the second portion and configured to extract liquefied fat from the tissue portion.

[0023] In some embodiments, the device includes a temperature indicating system as described above.

[0024] In some embodiments, the electrode arrangement comprises at least one monopolar electrode. In some embodiments, the electrode arrangement comprises at least one bipolar electrode pair. In some embodiments, the electrode arrangement comprises at least one multipolar electrode group.

[0025] In some embodiments, the second portion is removably connectable to the handpiece, thereby enabling removal of the second portion and application of treatment to the skin surface of the tissue portion using only the first portion, the first portion having the electrode arrangement mounted thereon.

[0026] According to another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, there is provided an apparatus for skin tissue treatment, comprising:

[0027] Handpiece, including:

[0028] a probe configured to be inserted into a patient's body, positioned below the surface of skin tissue, near or within a tissue portion to be treated, and

[0029] Electrode arrangement,

[0030] an RF generator electrically coupled to the electrode arrangement and operable to generate and deliver RF signals to the electrode arrangement so as to deliver RF energy to a tissue portion proximate the electrode arrangement to cause at least one of destruction of adipose tissue cells and tissue tightening at the tissue portion, and

[0031] A temperature indicating system is configured to provide visual data indicative of a temperature of a tissue portion and / or a surrounding environment of the tissue portion.

[0032] In some embodiments, the temperature indicating system is configured as described above.

[0033] In some embodiments, the device includes a first portion configured to be positioned outside the patient's body, proximate to the tissue portion to be treated, the first portion carrying an electrode arrangement.

[0034] In some embodiments, the probe at least partially comprises or is made of a conductive material that, when subjected to RF energy having specific parameters, heats up and causes damage to adipose tissue cells in its vicinity.

[0035] In some embodiments, the temperature indicating system includes a temperature sensor mounted on the first portion.

[0036] In some embodiments, the electrode arrangement includes a first sub-arrangement and a second sub-arrangement, wherein the first sub-arrangement is mounted on the first portion and is operable to cause tissue tightening on the skin surface of the tissue portion when activated, and the second sub-arrangement is mounted on the detector and is operable to cause destruction of fat tissue cells at the tissue portion when activated.

[0037] In some embodiments, the probe is hollow and includes a channel extending proximally from a distal end of the probe and configured to extract liquefied fat from the tissue portion.

[0038] In some embodiments, the electrode arrangement comprises at least one monopolar electrode. In some embodiments, the electrode arrangement comprises at least one bipolar electrode pair. In some embodiments, the electrode arrangement comprises at least one multipolar electrode group.

[0039] According to another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, a device for skin tissue treatment is provided, comprising a housing defining a first end and a second end. The first end and the second end may be integrally connected by a handle portion. The first end also defines a substantially flat surface, the surface may be configured to accommodate one or more electrodes and configured to be placed on the outer surface of the skin, i.e., contact the epidermis of the skin of the subject. The second end is configured to accommodate an RF generator and other components. In addition, a portion of the second end is configured to receive a detector. The detector can be detachably connected to a portion of the second end, and the detector is configured to be inserted into the body of the subject at the treatment site / area. In some embodiments, the detector comprises a conductive material, but is not connected to an energy source. In some embodiments, the detector comprises one or more electrodes for RF energy delivery.

[0040] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be limiting in any way. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] The above-mentioned aspects, other features and advantages of the disclosure will be better understood and will become more apparent by referring to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0042] Figure 1A A first non-limiting embodiment of an apparatus for skin tightening and fat removal according to the disclosure is shown in block diagram view.

[0043] Figure 1B Another non-limiting embodiment of an apparatus for skin tightening and fat removal according to the disclosure is shown in block diagram view.

[0044] Figure 1C Yet another non-limiting embodiment of an apparatus for skin tightening and fat removal according to the disclosure is shown in a block diagram view.

[0045] Figures 2 to 3 Schematic diagrams of devices for skin tightening and fat removal according to some non-limiting embodiments of the disclosure are shown.

[0046] Figures 4 to 6 Schematic diagrams of devices having probes with protrusions are shown according to some non-limiting embodiments of the disclosure.

[0047] Figures 7 to 9 A schematic perspective view of a device having an annular protrusion on a detector is shown according to a non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure.

[0048] Fig.10A schematic diagram of a device having a display unit integrated into a portion of the device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure is shown.

[0049] Figure 11 to Figure 12 A schematic perspective view of an apparatus having a probe defining a web-like tip according to a non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure is shown.

[0050] Fig.13 A schematic perspective view of a device without a detector is shown according to a non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure.

[0051] The accompanying drawings depict embodiments of the disclosure for illustration purposes only. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the elements shown herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] The foregoing description broadly summarizes the features and technical advantages of the disclosure so that the following description of the disclosure can be better understood. The additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be described below, which form the subject matter of the disclosure. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the disclosed concepts and specific embodiments can be easily used as the basis for modifying or designing other devices for the same purpose of implementing the disclosure. It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the scope of the disclosure. However, it should be clearly understood that the purpose of providing each accompanying drawing is only for illustration and description, and is not intended to be a definition of the limitation of the disclosure.

[0053] Some embodiments of the disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Although some specific terms "upper", "lower", "below", "above", "right" or "left" and other terms containing these specific terms and involving specific directions will be used, the purpose of using these terms or words is only to facilitate understanding of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. Therefore, it should be noted that the meanings of these terms or words should not unduly limit the technical scope of the present invention.

[0054] refer to Figure 1A, which shows in a block diagram a non-limiting example of a device 100 for adipose tissue destruction, fat reduction / removal, and skin tightening according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. The device 100 includes: a first part 101, which is configured to be positioned outside the body, near the tissue portion TP to be treated; a second part 102, which is configured to be inserted into the body, located below the skin tissue surface STS, near the tissue portion TP to be treated or inside the tissue portion TP to be treated; an RF system 170, which includes an RF generator 1021 and an electrode arrangement 102, the electrode arrangement is electrically connected to the RF generator 1021, so as to deliver RF energy to the tissue portion TP; and a controller 150, which communicates with the RF system 170, so as to control the RF system to cause destruction of adipose tissue cells and / or tissue tightening at the tissue portion. The controller 150 can be dedicated hardware or general hardware running dedicated firmware or software components, or a combination of both. In one non-limiting example, the controller is a firmware comprising a set of instructions that can be saved / loaded into a suitable memory or storage device that can be plugged into a dedicated port in the device.

[0055] The device 100 is configured as a handheld device having a housing 106 having a distal side / end 107 positioned near the tissue portion TP and a proximal side 104 positioned closer to the user. The proximal side 104 of the device may include a handle for easy gripping and manipulation by the user. Note that in some embodiments, the handheld device may have a larger housing 106A, which also includes the RF generator 1021 and the controller 150. In some other embodiments, one or more of the RF generator 1021 and the controller 150 may be located in a separate housing / console and have the necessary wired or wireless communication means with the device and the electrode arrangement 102, as is known in the art.

[0056] According to the disclosed subject matter, as indicated by the dashed line / dotted box, the electrode arrangement 102 can be positioned on the distal side of the first portion 101 or on the distal side of the second portion 103. The electrode arrangement 102 is configured to receive an RF signal from an RF generator 1021 and apply an RF energy field at the tissue portion TP, thereby causing one or both of the following: fat reduction / removal in the fat layer, and skin tightening at the tissue skin surface and upper skin layer.

[0057] In some embodiments, the electrode arrangement 102 includes two electrode sub-arrangements: a first electrode sub-arrangement located on the first portion 101, which is configured to cause skin tightening as described above when activated by the RF generator; and a second electrode sub-arrangement located on the second portion 103, which is configured to cause fat reduction / removal as described above when activated by the RF generator independently of the first electrode sub-arrangement.

[0058] In some embodiments, the electrode arrangement 102 is configured as a monopolar electrode, wherein the RF circuit is closed by contacting one or more other electrodes of the human body (generally located on the lower side of the back of the human body). In some embodiments, the electrode arrangement 102 is configured as a bipolar electrode arrangement, wherein one or more pairs of electrodes are operated with opposite polarities to generate corresponding and different RF energy fields between each pair of one or more pairs of electrodes. In some embodiments, the electrode arrangement 102 is configured as a multipolar electrode arrangement, wherein a first group of electrodes is operated with a first polarity, and a second group with a different number of electrodes is operated with an opposite second polarity to generate multiple RF energy fields. In some embodiments, the polarity of one or more electrodes in the electrode arrangement can change over time during treatment, thereby achieving a dynamic RF energy field at the treatment site. Any of the above-mentioned operating modes (monopolar, bipolar or multipolar) can be controlled by a correspondingly programmed controller 150.

[0059] The second portion 103 has an elongated shaft or cannula shape that is thin enough and strong enough to be inserted under the skin tissue surface STS and into the tissue portion TP at the treatment site. In some embodiments, the second portion 103 is hollow and includes a channel 121 extending from the distal end to the proximal side, through which the disrupted / melted fat tissue can be drawn out of the body, which may be achieved by communicating with a vacuum source (not explicitly shown) connected to or included in the device 100.

[0060] The housing 106 may include one or more buttons for activating and deactivating the electrode arrangement for applying the desired tissue treatment.

[0061] refer to Figure 1B, which shows a non-limiting example of a device 100 according to some embodiments of the disclosed text subject matter in the form of a block diagram, wherein an electrode arrangement 102 is located on a first portion 101 positioned outside the body. As shown, a second portion 103 carries or includes a portion 103A thereon, which is located at the distal end of the second portion and inserted into the body under the skin surface, so that the portion 103A is within the range of the RF energy field applied by the electrode arrangement 102. During treatment, the portion 103A is located near / inside the tissue portion TP. The portion 103A includes or is made of a conductive material, and the remainder or the entire second portion (when the portion 103A is not an integral part of the second portion 103 but is mounted thereon) is made of a non-conductive material. The portion 103A does not have any connection to the RF generator. In this configuration, when the electrode arrangement 102 on the first portion is operated to apply an RF energy field, the portion 103A or the conductive material included therein becomes hot, and when sufficient RF energy field parameters are provided to heat the portion 103A to a sufficient temperature range, the heat diffusion from the heated portion 103A causes heating and destruction of fat tissue near it. In this configuration, due to the heating effect applied to both the deep fat layer around the second portion and the superficial skin layer below the external electrode arrangement 102, the device 100 can be used for both fat removal and skin tightening. As will be understood from the non-limiting example described in detail below, a plurality of spaced apart conductive areas 103A can be provided on the second portion 103.

[0062] refer to Figure 1C , which shows in block diagram form some embodiments according to the disclosed subject matter and as referenced above Figure 1A A non-limiting example of the device 100 explained, wherein the electrode arrangement 102 is located on a first portion 101 positioned outside the body or on a second portion 103 positioned inside the body. As shown, in a non-limiting example, the device 100 includes a temperature indicating system 160, which is configured and operable to provide information about the temperature of the environment of the treatment site. In some embodiments, the temperature indicating system 160 provides information about the temperature of the skin surface near the first portion and / or the electrode arrangement mounted thereon. In some embodiments, the temperature indicating system 160 provides information about the internal core temperature of the body near the second portion and / or the electrode arrangement mounted thereon.

[0063] In some embodiments, the temperature indicating system 160 provides temperature sensing data of the temperature on the surface or in the body through the temperature sensor 130 mounted on the first part and / or the second part. The temperature indicating system 160 provides the temperature sensing data in real time.

[0064] In some embodiments, the temperature indication system 160 includes a temperature sensor, which is a thermal camera 162 (e.g., an infrared (IR) camera), having a field of view covering and / or tracking the treatment site, inside or outside the body, and configured to provide temperature sensing data. In some embodiments, the IR camera can be mounted on the first portion. In some embodiments, the IR camera is mounted on a headset worn by the user. In addition to the treatment site, the IR camera allows the user to see a second portion inside the body.

[0065] In some embodiments, the temperature indication system 160 includes a visual or / and audible data presentation unit 164, such as a display or / and a speaker, to convey the temperature sensing data to the user. In some embodiments, the data presentation unit 164 is in the form of a display integrated into glasses worn by the user.

[0066] In some embodiments, the controller 150 registers the temperature sensing data received from the temperature sensor / IR camera over time to enable the user to track the temperature profile over time and / or according to different points in the treatment site. This enables the user to plan additional treatments at the treatment site when needed.

[0067] Note that in some embodiments, although not explicitly shown, Figure 1C The device shown in the figure may additionally include the Figure 1B One or more regions 103A are described.

[0068] In the following, non-limiting examples and configurations of the device 100 and different elements / features are described. It should be noted that the following examples should not limit the subject matter of the disclosed text, and other different combinations may be envisioned by those skilled in the art. In addition, it should be understood that other specific details described below regarding different elements / features may also apply to the above Figures 1A to 1C The corresponding general elements / features described in .

[0069] refer to Figure 2, which shows a perspective view of a non-limiting example of a device 100 for adipose tissue destruction, fat reduction / removal and skin tightening according to the disclosed text theme. As shown, the device 100 includes a housing 106. The housing 106 may be defined with a first distal end 107 and a second proximal end 104. The first end 107 and the second end 104 may be integrally connected by a first portion 101 (which is formed as a handle portion 101). The housing 106 and / or the first portion / handle portion 101 may be a hollow structure configured to accommodate one or more components leading from the second end 104 to the first end 107, including a harness, an optical cable, etc. In some embodiments, the housing 106 at the second end 104 may be configured to accommodate an RF source / generator [not shown], a compartment for receiving a battery module [not shown] in the case of battery power, or at least one of a socket for receiving an external power source. In addition, the second end 104 may be defined with one or more units and / or ports that may be helpful in connecting the device 100 to other equipment in a communicative manner.

[0070] The first end 107 of the device 100 defines a substantially flat surface configured to accommodate an electrode arrangement (one or more electrodes) 102 coupled to an RF source. Portions of the electrodes 102 may protrude downwardly from the substantially flat surface at the first end 107. In some embodiments, as shown by non-limiting example, two electrodes 102a of opposite polarity are provided to generate a bipolar RF field.

[0071] In some embodiments, the electrode 102a can be positioned on the skin surface above the treatment area and can be applied to the skin surface. In some embodiments, the size of the electrode and / or the energy applied thereby is adjusted to produce skin tightening without causing thermal damage to the dermis and epidermis. The first end 107 of the device carrying the electrode 102 can be designed to move smoothly over the skin, thereby producing a uniform effect in the skin and fat tissue.

[0072] In addition, the device 100 includes a second part: a probe 103, and the second part / probe 103 can be detachably connected to a portion of the second end 104 of the housing 106. In some embodiments, the probe 103 can be an elongated cylindrical structure, such as a shaft or a hollow tube. The probe 103 can include a proximal end at the proximal side 104 of the device and a distal end at the distal side 107 of the device. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the probe 103 can be connected to a portion of the second end 104 of the housing 106. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the probe 103 can be configured with an attachment structure to the device, including but not limited to a magnetic structure, to attach to the second end 104 of the housing 106. The probe 103 is configured to be inserted into a human body, i.e., inserted near the fat tissue of the human body.

[0073] In some embodiments, the detector 103 is made of a conductive material without any energy source connected. In some embodiments, the detector 103 is made of a non-conductive material, including one or more portions 120 (region 103A) made of a conductive material. As a specific example, when the detector (or any portion of the detector) includes a conductive material without any energy source attached, the electrode 102 is connected to RF energy, and the detector is passively heated by the RF field generated by the electrode 102, so that the detector is configured for fat destruction. When the electrode 102a is set in the device as a bipolar RF energy field from one electrode to another electrode, the distal end of the detector 103 exposed to the RF field is heated and can therefore be configured to destroy fat tissue near the distal end of the detector 103.

[0074] Reference now Figure 3 In some non-limiting embodiments, the detector 103 is hollow and has a channel (121, such as Figure 1A 121 ), and may be referred to as a cannula. When the probe includes a cannula, the distal end of the probe is open and includes a hole 121, and the cannula is configured to extract liquefied fat from the patient being treated.

[0075] Figure 4 A probe 103 is shown that includes protrusions 122. In some embodiments, these protrusions 122 are four RF probe electrodes connected to an energy source, where two protrusions are one polarity and two protrusions are a second, opposite polarity. In some embodiments, there may be any number of protrusions and may operate in different electrode RF systems or modes, such as bipolar pairs or multipolar configurations. In some embodiments, the polarity of each electrode may be changed over time during treatment, thereby achieving a dynamic RF field over the treated area. In some embodiments, Figure 4 The probe in the embodiment is made of a non-conductive material, and the protrusion 122 is a conductive material without any energy source. As described above, when exposed to the RF field, the conductive element (such as the protrusion 122) will be heated and can be configured to destroy fat tissue near the distal end of the probe. In some embodiments, the protrusion 122 can be a predefined mixture / combination of RF electrodes and conductive elements without any energy source.

[0076] Figure 5 The electrodes 102b on the flat surface of the first end 107 in some non-limiting embodiments are shown, the first end is configured to accommodate three electrodes 102b, which is also referred to as a tri-pole arrangement. In some embodiments, when a tri-pole arrangement is used, two electrodes are operated with one polarity of RF energy and the third electrode is operated with the opposite polarity. In some embodiments, any odd number of electrodes can be used, such that an even number of electrodes are one polarity and an odd number of electrodes are the opposite polarity. Figure 5 It is also shown that in some embodiments a temperature indication system (such as a temperature sensor 130 and / or an IR camera (not shown)) can be placed on a surface of the first end 107, for example, on a flat surface that carries the electrodes. The detector 103 can also include Figure 4 Protrusions 124 of different shapes. In some embodiments, the protrusions of the detector 103 have any shape. In some embodiments, these protrusions 124 are four RF detector electrodes connected to an energy source, where two protrusions are one polarity and the other two protrusions are a second opposite polarity. In some embodiments, Figure 5 The detector in is a non-conductive material and the protrusion 124 is a conductive material without any energy source, and the protrusion is heated when located within the generated RF field, as described above.

[0077] Reference now Figure 6 , which shows that in some non-limiting embodiments there is an even number of multiple electrodes 102d, which are configured so that half of the electrodes are one polarity and the other half are the opposite second polarity. Likewise, the protrusion 124 can be part of an RF electrode, part of a conductive element, or / and a combination thereof.

[0078] Figure 7 A probe 103 is shown that includes annular protrusions 126. In some embodiments, these annular protrusions 126 are an even number (e.g., four) of RF electrodes connected to an energy source, where half (two) of the annular protrusions are one polarity and the other half (two) of the protrusions are a second, opposite polarity. Alternatively, the annular electrodes can be operated in a multipolar mode, and the polarity of each electrode can be changed over time during treatment. In some embodiments, the polarity of each electrode in any mode can be changed over time during use. In some embodiments, Figure 7 The detector 103 is made of a non-conductive material, and the annular protrusion 126 is a conductive material without any energy source, and the annular protrusion is heated when located in an RF field, as described above.

[0079] Figure 8 The first end 107 of the first portion of the device in some non-limiting embodiments includes a monopolar electrode 102c. The RF signal will then be closed via another electrode that is not located on the device but is placed in contact with the human body. In some embodiments, the probe 103 having an annular protrusion 126 may also include a hole 132 (such as Figure 3 As described above), the probe can also be used as a cannula to extract fat out of the body.

[0080] Fig. 9It is shown that in some non-limiting embodiments there may be a three-pole electrode arrangement 102b with both a temperature sensor 130 (or / and an IR camera) and a probe with an annular protrusion 126. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the probe 103 includes a temperature sensor configured to sense the temperature of skin tissue surrounding the probe, for example, an IR camera mounted outside the body or a temperature sensor mounted on the probe 103.

[0081] Reference now Fig.10 , which shows that in some embodiments the device further comprises a viewing screen 140 (data presentation unit) configured to display temperature sensor readings of a temperature sensor on the probe or a temperature sensor placed on the flat surface of the first part, or both.

[0082] In some embodiments, such as Fig.11 and Fig.12 As seen in FIG. 1 , the distal end of the probe 103 includes a mesh tip 128. The mesh tip is configured to Fig.10 The closed position shown is similar to Fig.11 In some embodiments, the mesh tip 128 comprises a conductive material without an energy source such that it is heated when exposed to RF energy within the RF field, and the detector 103 is made of a non-conductive material.

[0083] In some embodiments, the device 100 is configured to perform external treatment, that is, to treat the skin without the assistance of the detector 103, such as Fig.13 For example, a detachably attachable probe (second portion) may be removed to facilitate handling through the electrode arrangement 102d mounted on the flat surface of the first portion (handle).

[0084] In some embodiments, the device (and specifically, the detector 103) can be made of a biocompatible material. The term "biocompatible" used refers to the property of the material being compatible with living tissue. When exposed to the body or body fluids, the biocompatible material does not produce a toxic or immune response. In some embodiments, when RF energy is delivered to the electrodes on the device, the RF energy can be delivered at a level sufficient to destroy the fat tissue near the end or distal end of the detector. In some embodiments, when mounted on the first portion of the device, the electrode 102 can also heat the underlying epidermis of the subject to a sub-necrotic level.

[0085] The device can have a probe that is not connected to an energy source and can be inserted into the fat tissue. Alternatively, the device can also provide a bipolar, tripolar or multipolar RF system on a flat surface of a first portion and have one or more treatment electrodes on a second portion (probe) that is inserted into the fat tissue.

[0086] In this document, the word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment or implementation of the subject matter described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0087] The terms "comprises," "includes," or any other variation thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a mechanism comprising a list of components includes not only those components but may also include other components not expressly listed or inherent to such mechanisms. In other words, without more constraints, the addition of "comprises..." to one or more elements in a device or mechanism does not exclude the presence of other or additional elements in the mechanism.

[0088] With respect to substantially any plural and / or singular terms used herein, those skilled in the art may convert the plural to the singular and / or the singular to the plural as required by the context and / or application. For clarity, various singular / plural arrangements may be explicitly set forth herein.

[0089] Although various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting.

Claims

1. A device for skin tissue treatment, comprising: A handpiece, the handpiece comprising: a first portion configured to be positioned outside the patient's body proximate to a tissue portion to be treated, a second portion configured to be inserted into the patient's body, positioned below the surface of the skin tissue, near or within the tissue portion to be treated, and An RF system comprising an RF generator and an electrode arrangement, wherein the RF generator is operable to generate an RF signal, and the electrode arrangement is electrically connected to the RF generator and is operable to receive the RF signal, thereby delivering RF energy to the tissue portion to cause at least one of destruction of adipose tissue cells and tissue tightening at the tissue portion, wherein the electrode arrangement is mounted on the first portion or on the second portion.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, comprising a controller, the controller communicating with the RF system so as to control the RF system to cause at least one of the destruction of the adipose tissue cells and the tissue tightening at the tissue portion.

3. An apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the electrode arrangement is mounted on the first part, and wherein the second part at least partially comprises or is made of a conductive material, which, when subjected to the RF energy having specific parameters, becomes hot and causes the destruction of the adipose tissue cells in its vicinity.

4. A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the electrode arrangement comprises a first sub-arrangement and a second sub-arrangement, wherein the first sub-arrangement is mounted on the first part and is operable when activated to cause the tissue tightening of the skin surface of the tissue part, and the second sub-arrangement is mounted on the second part and is operable when activated to cause the destruction of fat tissue cells at the tissue part.

5. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second portion is hollow and comprises a channel extending proximally from a distal end of the second portion and configured for extracting liquefied fat from the tissue portion.

6. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a temperature indicating system configured to provide temperature data indicative of the temperature of the tissue portion and / or of the surroundings of the tissue portion.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the temperature indicating system comprises a temperature sensor mounted on the first portion.

8. Apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the temperature indicating system comprises a temperature sensor mounted on the second part.

9. Apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the temperature indication system comprises a thermal camera configured and operable to provide the temperature data in the form of visual data, the visual data also indicating the position of the first portion within the tissue portion.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the thermal camera is mounted on the first portion.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the thermal camera is mounted on a headset worn by a user.

12. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the visual data is provided on glasses worn by a user.

13. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the electrode arrangement comprises at least one monopolar electrode.

14. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the electrode arrangement comprises at least one bipolar electrode pair.

15. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the electrode arrangement comprises at least one multipolar electrode group.

16. A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second part is detachably connectable to the handpiece, thereby enabling removal of the second part and application of treatment to the skin surface of the tissue portion using only the first part, the first part having the electrode arrangement mounted thereon.

17. An apparatus for treating skin tissue, comprising: A handheld detector, comprising: a first portion configured to be positioned outside the patient's body proximate to a tissue portion to be treated, a second portion configured to be inserted into the patient's body, positioned below the surface of the skin tissue, near or within the tissue portion to be treated, and An RF system comprising an RF generator and an electrode arrangement, wherein the RF generator is operable to generate an RF signal, and the electrode arrangement is electrically connected to the RF generator and is operable to receive the RF signal, thereby delivering RF energy to the tissue portion to cause at least one of destruction of adipose tissue cells and tissue tightening at the tissue portion, wherein the electrode arrangement is mounted on the first portion, and wherein the second portion at least partially comprises or is made of a conductive material, which, when subjected to the RF energy having specific parameters, generates heat and causes at least one of destruction of adipose tissue cells and tissue tightening at the tissue portion.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, comprising a controller in communication with the RF system so as to control the RF system to cause the at least one of the destruction of the adipose tissue cells and the tissue tightening at the tissue portion.

19. The apparatus according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the second portion is hollow and comprises a channel extending proximally from a distal end of the second portion and configured for extracting liquefied fat from the tissue portion.

20. Apparatus according to any one of claims 17 to 19, comprising a temperature indicating system configured to provide temperature data indicative of the temperature of the tissue portion and / or a surrounding of the tissue portion.

21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the temperature indicating system comprises a temperature sensor mounted on the first portion.

22. Apparatus according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the temperature indicating system comprises a temperature sensor mounted on the second part.

23. Apparatus according to any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the temperature indication system comprises a thermal camera configured and operable to provide the temperature data in the form of visual data, the visual data also indicating the position of the first portion within the tissue portion.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the thermal camera is mounted on the first portion.

25. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the thermal camera is mounted on a headset worn by a user.

26. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the visual data is provided on glasses worn by a user.

27. Apparatus according to any one of claims 17 to 26, wherein the electrode arrangement comprises at least one monopolar electrode.

28. Apparatus according to any one of claims 17 to 27, wherein the electrode arrangement comprises at least one bipolar electrode pair.

29. Apparatus according to any one of claims 17 to 28, wherein the electrode arrangement comprises at least one multipolar electrode set.

30. A device according to any one of claims 17 to 29, wherein the second part is detachably connectable to the handpiece, thereby enabling removal of the second part and application of treatment to the skin surface of the tissue portion using only the first part, the first part having the electrode arrangement mounted thereon.

31. An apparatus for treating skin tissue, comprising: A handpiece, the handpiece comprising: a probe configured to be inserted into the patient's body, positioned below the surface of the skin tissue, near or within the tissue portion to be treated, and Electrode arrangement, an RF generator electrically coupled to the electrode arrangement and operable to generate and deliver an RF signal to the electrode arrangement so as to deliver RF energy to a tissue portion proximate the electrode arrangement to cause at least one of destruction of adipose tissue cells and tissue tightening at the tissue portion, and A temperature indicating system is configured to provide visual data indicative of a temperature of the tissue portion and / or a surrounding environment of the tissue portion.

32. The apparatus of claim 31 , wherein the temperature indicating system is configured to provide the visual data further indicating the location of the probe within the patient's body.

33. Apparatus according to claim 31 or 32, wherein the temperature indicating system comprises a temperature sensor mounted on the probe.

34. Apparatus according to any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein the temperature indicating system comprises a thermal camera mounted on a headset worn by a user.

35. An apparatus according to any one of claims 31 to 34, wherein the visual data is provided on glasses worn by a user.

36. Apparatus according to any one of claims 31 to 35, comprising a first part configured to be positioned outside the patient's body close to the tissue portion to be treated, the first part carrying the electrode arrangement.

37. The apparatus according to claim 36, wherein the detector at least partially comprises or is made of a conductive material, which, when subjected to the RF energy having specific parameters, becomes hot and causes the destruction of the adipose tissue cells in its vicinity.

38. Apparatus according to claim 36 or 37, wherein the temperature indicating system comprises a temperature sensor mounted on the first part.

39. An apparatus according to any one of claims 36 to 38, wherein the electrode arrangement comprises a first sub-arrangement and a second sub-arrangement, wherein the first sub-arrangement is mounted on the first portion and is operable when activated to cause the tissue tightening on the skin surface of the tissue portion, and the second sub-arrangement is mounted on the detector and is operable when activated to cause the destruction of fat tissue cells at the tissue portion.

40. The apparatus of any one of claims 31 to 39, wherein the probe is hollow and comprises a channel extending proximally from a distal end of the probe and configured for extracting liquefied fat from the tissue portion.

41. Apparatus according to any one of claims 31 to 40, wherein the electrode arrangement comprises at least one monopolar electrode.

42. Apparatus according to any one of claims 31 to 41, wherein the electrode arrangement comprises at least one bipolar electrode pair.

43. Apparatus according to any one of claims 31 to 42, wherein the electrode arrangement comprises at least one multipolar electrode group.

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