Ablation probe including flexible circuit

Abstract

A probe for performing an ablation treatment includes a housing defining an outer surface and a cryogen supply conduit positioned within the housing. The probe also includes a flexible circuit positioned on at least a portion of the outer surface of the housing. The flexible circuit may include at least one radio frequency (RF) transmitter for delivering RF energy to the target tissue.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 845,647, filed on June 21, 2022. The entire disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to ablation probes including flexible circuits. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to ablation probes that allow for radio frequency (RF) and / or cryoablation treatments using flexible circuits integrated into or on the probe. Background Art

[0004] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

[0005] Systems and methods for providing ablation treatment generally include introducing a probe at or near target tissue in a patient. The target tissue may be abnormal or undesirable tissue, such as a tumor. The ablation treatment is performed to destroy the target tissue. In addition to destroying the target tissue, it is also desirable to minimize damage or injury to healthy tissue that may be located near the target tissue.

[0006] One type of ablation treatment is cryoablation treatment. Cryoablation treatment can include a cryoablation probe introduced at or near the target tissue in the patient. The cryoablation system can include an extremely cold cryogen (liquid, gas or mixed phase) that can be transferred through a probe in thermal contact with the target tissue. Heat from the tissue is transferred from the tissue through the probe and into the cryogen, which removes heat from the target tissue. The removal of this heat causes the tissue to freeze, resulting in the destruction of the target tissue. When the tissue freezes, the ice is usually formed in the form of an ice ball. The ice ball can be in the form of a sphere, an ellipsoid or other shape. It is desirable to perform cryoablation treatment so that the target tissue is completely frozen and the freezing of surrounding tissues and / or body structures is minimized.

[0007] In other treatments, radio frequency (RF) energy can be used to ablate target tissue and / or provide pain relief. During such treatments, a probe can be inserted at or near target tissue in a patient. The probe can emit or deliver radio frequency energy to the target tissue. In some examples, the radio frequency energy can heat the target tissue to an elevated temperature that can destroy the tissue. In other examples, radio frequency energy can be delivered to provide pain relief to the affected area or target tissue.

[0008] Conventional or existing probes and methods suffer from various disadvantages. Some of these disadvantages may be caused by the extreme temperatures used to create the ice ball during the cryoablation freezing cycle or the elevated temperatures used in the RF ablation treatment. For example, it may be difficult to return the tissue temperature to a more moderate temperature after the freezing cycle. The time required to heat the tissue and / or bring the tissue to a moderate temperature may be longer than may be desired. In addition, it may be difficult to incorporate heaters, electrical contacts, leads, and other components into the probe and maintain a size that can be used to minimize impact on the patient. Therefore, there is a need for an improved ablation probe and method that integrates freezing, radio frequency (RF), and sensing functions into a device of appropriate size. Summary of the invention

[0009] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

[0010] In various embodiments of the present disclosure, an apparatus and method for performing ablation treatment is provided. The apparatus and method may include improvements to ablation probes and ablation systems. In some embodiments, the ablation probe may include a flexible circuit. The flexible circuit may include various electrical components to provide radio frequency (RF) treatment. The flexible circuit may include various electrical components to obtain measurement data. The flexible circuit may be positioned on the outside of the housing of the probe.

[0011] In one embodiment, a probe as defined in the claims is provided.

[0012] In another embodiment, an ablation system as defined in the claims is provided.

[0013] In another embodiment, a method as defined in the claims is provided. In another embodiment, a method is provided, the method comprising: delivering a cryogen to a probe to perform a freezing cycle of an ablation treatment; obtaining measurement data from one or more measurement points on a flexible circuit on the probe; and delivering a radio frequency (RF) signal to an RF transmitter on the flexible circuit. Suitably, the steps of the method are performed during a common treatment. Suitably, the RF transmitter comprises an RF electrode. In one embodiment, the RD transmitter comprises a heater. In one embodiment, the step of delivering the RF signal comprises performing a coagulation treatment. Suitably, the step of delivering the RF signal comprises ablating the target tissue.

[0014] A probe having a flexible circuit on the outside of the housing of the probe is an improvement over existing probes and related methods because the circuits and electrical components can be positioned closely together and can include complex circuits that would not otherwise be possible using existing or conventional structures. The flexible circuit disposed on the housing of the probe also allows room for a cryogen supply conduit inside the probe that can be configured to provide cryoablation treatments. Thus, the probes and methods of the present disclosure can provide combined cryo-RF treatments and other heating and RF cycles that are not available on existing and conventional devices.

[0015] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, an ablation probe is provided. The probe may include: a housing defining an outer surface, a cryogen supply conduit positioned within the housing, and a flexible circuit positioned on at least a portion of the outer surface of the housing.

[0016] In one aspect, the flexible circuit can include at least one radio frequency (RF) transmitter configured to deliver RF energy to target tissue.

[0017] In another aspect, the flexible circuit can include a plurality of measurement points configured to obtain measurement data during an ablation treatment.

[0018] In another aspect, the flexible circuit can include a plurality of heaters.

[0019] In another aspect, the flexible circuit covers at least about 50% of the outer surface of the probe.

[0020] In another aspect, an exterior surface of the housing is exposed between portions of the flexible circuit.

[0021] In another aspect, the flexible circuit can include an RF transmitter configured to thaw ice balls formed during a freeze cycle of an ablation treatment.

[0022] In another aspect, the flexible circuit may include an RF transmitter configured to perform coagulation treatment of a bleeding condition.

[0023] In another aspect, the flex circuit is a first flex circuit positioned at a first axial location on the housing, and the probe may include a second flex circuit positioned at a second axial location on the housing.

[0024] In another aspect, the cryogen supply conduit defines an inflow portion for the cooling path, and an outer surface of the supply conduit and an inner surface of the housing define an outflow path.

[0025] In another aspect, the cryogen supply conduit is configured to move liquid or gaseous nitrogen through the probe.

[0026] In another aspect, the flexible circuit can include a plurality of RF electrodes.

[0027] In another aspect, the probe may include a microwave antenna.

[0028] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, an ablation system is provided. The ablation system may include an ablation controller coupled to a probe. The ablation controller may include at least one processor configured to deliver a cryogen to a cryogen supply conduit and deliver an RF signal to an RF transmitter on a flexible circuit.

[0029] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a method for performing an ablation treatment is provided. The method may include delivering a cryogen to a probe to perform a freeze cycle of an ablation treatment, obtaining measurement data from one or more measurement points on a flexible circuit on the probe, and delivering a radio frequency (RF) signal to an RF transmitter on the flexible circuit.

[0030] In one aspect, the steps of the method are performed during a co-treatment.

[0031] In another aspect, a radio frequency (RF) transmitter may include an RF electrode.

[0032] In another aspect, the radio frequency (RF) transmitter is a heater.

[0033] In another aspect, the step of delivering the RF signal may include performing a coagulation treatment.

[0034] In another aspect, the step of delivering the RF signal can include ablating the target tissue.

[0035] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein.The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating an example ablation system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 2 is a side view illustrating an example probe head including a flexible circuit according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 3 is a side view of an example probe, illustrating an example flexible circuit according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 4is a side view of an example probe illustrating another example flexible circuit according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example flexible circuit that may be used on a probe according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 6 is a diagram showing another example flexible circuit that may be used on a probe according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 7 is a flow chart illustrating an example method of performing an ablation treatment according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating an example computing device that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0045] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0047] Example embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope to those skilled in the art. Many specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that the example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms, and that they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail.

[0048] The terms used herein are only used to describe the purpose of specific example embodiments and are not intended to be restrictive. As used herein, the singular forms "one", "an" and "the" may also be intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "include", "comprise", "contain", and "have" are inclusive, and therefore specify the existence of stated features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their groups. The method steps, processes and operations described herein should not be interpreted as necessarily requiring them to be performed in the specific order discussed or shown, unless specifically identified as the order of execution. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be adopted.

[0049] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "engaged to," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, directly engaged to, directly connected to, or directly coupled to another element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly" "on," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intermediate elements or layers. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0050] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms can only be used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply order or sequence when used in this article unless clearly indicated by context. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below can be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teaching of the exemplary embodiment.

[0051] Spatially relative terms such as "inside", "outside", "below", "below", "lower", "above", "upper", etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship between an element or feature as shown in the figure and another (one or more) element or feature for ease of description. Spatially relative terms may be intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation other than the orientation depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure is turned over, the elements described as "below" or "below" other elements or features will be oriented to be "above" other elements or features. Therefore, the example term "below" can cover both the orientation above and below. The device can be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein are interpreted accordingly.

[0052] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, an ablation probe is provided that includes a flexible circuit. The flexible circuit can provide various functions to the probe. In some embodiments, the flexible circuit can include a heating circuit, a radio frequency (RF) transmitter, measurement points, and other electrical components that can be used in conjunction with an ablation treatment. The flexible circuit can allow tissue to be heated in the area where the probe is located to provide ablation treatment, pain relief, local heating, coagulation, etc. The flexible circuit can also provide sensing functions to obtain measurements of operating parameters or conditions of the probe, such as temperature at one or more locations along the probe.

[0053] In some embodiments, in addition to heating and / or radio frequency (RF) functionality, the probe may also include cryoablation functionality. The probe may include a cooling path that may allow a cryogen (e.g., nitrogen, argon, oxygen, etc.) to flow to cause cooling of the target tissue, which may include forming ice at the target tissue during a freezing cycle of a cryoablation treatment. The flexible circuit may then provide thawing, RF ablation, coagulation, or other functionality that may be used in conjunction with or in addition to cryoablation treatment.

[0054] In yet other embodiments, the above-described probe may be incorporated into an ablation system that can provide cryoablation treatment, radio frequency (RF) treatment, and / or combined RF-cryotreatment. The ablation system may include a controller and / or computing device to receive measurement data from a flexible circuit on the probe and to deliver signals to the flexible circuit to cause heating or other functions to be performed at the target tissue.

[0055] The systems, probes, and methods of the present disclosure are improvements over existing or conventional systems, devices, and methods by providing functionality that is not possible using existing systems. Moreover, the flexible circuits of the present disclosure can provide increased functionality compared to existing devices and can be incorporated into ablation probes of appropriate or desired size to minimize the impact of treatment on the patient. Moreover, the flexible circuits of the present disclosure can be configured in various ways to provide variable functionality as may be desired, depending on the patient's condition and needs and the associated treatment.

[0056] Now go to Figure 1 , an example ablation system 100 is shown. In one example, the ablation system 100 may include an ablation controller 104, a probe 102, and an ablation computing device 106. The probe 102 may be coupled to the ablation controller 104 to provide operation in either or both of a cryo mode and a radio frequency (RF) mode. The ablation controller 104 may include a cryo delivery system 108 and / or an RF delivery system 110, which will be further described.

[0057] The cryo-delivery system 108 can deliver a cryogen to the probe 102. When the probe 102 is positioned in a desired position in or on the patient 120, the cryogen can remove heat from the probe and thus from tissue that may be located near the probe 102. For example, the probe 102 can be positioned at or near a target tissue such as a tumor, lesion, or other abnormal tissue. The cryo-delivery system 108 can cause an ice ball (of various suitable shapes and sizes) to be generated at the distal end of the probe 102, which freezes the target tissue and thereby destroys the target tissue. The cryogen can be selected from various suitable fluids, including liquid and / or gaseous nitrogen, argon, or oxygen. In one example, the cryo-delivery system 108 is configured to deliver a cryogen to the probe 102.

[0058] The RF delivery system 110 can be configured to deliver RF energy to the probe 102. The RF delivery system 110 can, for example, deliver an electric current to the probe 102. The electric current can be transmitted to the surrounding tissue of the patient 120 via one or more RF electrodes on the flexible circuit 112. The flexible circuit 112 can be fixed to the probe 102 in any suitable position. Suitably, the flexible circuit 112 is fixed to the probe 102 at or near the distal end of the probe 102. The RF electrodes on the flexible circuit 112 can be positioned at or near the distal end of the probe 102. In this way, RF energy can be transmitted to the target tissue and then heat the tissue at the distal end of the probe 102. Various duty cycles and / or heat can be generated via various power profiles. As may be desired, the heat can be used to increase the temperature of the tissue to destroy the tissue, coagulate bleeding conditions, and / or restore the tissue to normal body temperature. In some examples, an RF signal can be provided to perform an RF ablation cycle. Alternatively, an RF signal can be provided to perform a coagulation process. Alternatively, the RF signal may be provided to perform a thawing process to aid in the removal of the probe after a cryoablation treatment. The RF signal may also be provided to perform a pain relief or stimulation treatment.

[0059] The flexible circuit 112 may also include one or more measurement points. The measurement points may include electrical pads that may measure any desired parameter, such as temperature, impedance, pressure, and / or other characteristics. The measurement points may measure parameters of the patient, the ablation system 100, and / or other conditions during the ablation treatment. The flexible circuit 112 may also include suitable sensors that may be used as measurement points to collect information during the ablation treatment. The measurement points may be connected to the ablation controller 104, which may collect, analyze, store, and / or perform other operations using information from the measurement points.

[0060] In other examples, alternatively or additionally, the probe 102 may include a microwave antenna. The microwave antenna may be positioned at the distal end of the probe 102. The RF delivery system 110 may be used to deliver current to the microwave antenna so that microwaves are emitted. For example, the current may be delivered to the microwave antenna via a coaxial cable in the probe. The microwaves may then heat tissue at or near the distal end of the probe 102 to destroy tissue, coagulate bleeding conditions, and / or restore tissue to normal body temperature. In yet other examples, the RF electrodes and / or microwave antennas may be used to treat pain conditions in patients via delivery of RF energy. In the present disclosure, the term RF transmitter is used to describe various structures that use RF energy to heat tissue at the distal end of the probe 102. Such various structures may include RF electrodes, microwave antennas, and the like.

[0061] The ablation system 100 may also include an ablation computing device 106 coupled to the ablation controller 104. Figure 1 Although shown as separate elements in the drawings, it should be appreciated that these elements (and other elements) may be combined into a single structure or further separated from the elements shown and described.

[0062] The ablation computing device 106 may include various suitable processing devices, such as computers, servers, laptops, tablet computers, workstations, circuits, etc., to provide the described functionality. The ablation computing device 106 may also include a display and / or other input-output devices to allow a user to interact, control, view, and otherwise configure the operation of the ablation system 100.

[0063] In other examples, ablation system 100 may include other elements or be configured in other ways. In some examples, ablation system 100 may be configured as a combined RF-cryoablation system and may be operated to perform a combined RF-cryoablation treatment. Further details of such an example combined RF-cryoablation computing device are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 845,597, filed on the same date as this application, by Varian Medical Systems, Inc., entitled Apparatuses and Methods for Combination Radio Frequency and Cryo Ablation Treatments. The contents of the aforementioned patent application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0064] Reference now Figure 2 , an example probe 200 is shown. The probe 200 may be used in an ablation system, such as the ablation system described previously with reference to Figure 1The ablation system 100 described herein. The probe 200 includes a flexible circuit 208. The flexible circuit 208 is positioned on the outer surface of the housing 202 of the probe 200. The probe 200 can be, for example, an ablation probe made of stainless steel or other suitable materials. The housing 202 can be a cylindrical member that is hollow to accommodate or surround other elements of the probe that will be described below. The flexible circuit 208 can be fastened to the outer surface of the housing 202 using a suitable adhesive, epoxy, or other material. The flexible circuit 208 can be fastened at or near the distal end 206 of the probe 200.

[0065] The flexible circuit 208 may include one or more of the following: measurement points, electrical pads, electrodes, sensors, heaters, RF electrodes, connecting leads, and other electrical components that can be used to perform one or more of the functions described herein. The flexible circuit 208 can be made via various suitable manufacturing methods. The flexible circuit 208 can have various layers of conductive and non-conductive materials to allow the circuit to be located at various locations along the axial length of the probe and / or circumferentially around the outside of the probe. The flexible circuit 208 can be configured as a flexible planar member. The flexible circuit 208 can be wrapped and fastened around the outer surface of the housing 202. In other examples, the flexible circuit 208 can be configured as a sleeve that is positioned over the housing 202 and then fastened in a desired position.

[0066] The flexible circuit 208 can be configured as, for example, a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) circuit. Such a flexible printed circuit board can use a bendable polyimide substrate to insulate and protect the conductive copper layer of the electronic components connected to the flexible circuit. The flexible circuit 208 can have a thickness of at least 0.05 mm, suitably at least 0.065 mm, or at least 0.30 mm. The flexible circuit 208 can have a thickness of no more than 0.6 mm, suitably no more than 0.30 mm, or no more than 0.12 mm. The flexible circuit 208 can have a thickness in the range of about 0.05 mm to about 0.6 mm. In other examples, other thicknesses can be used. The flexible circuit 208 can be made using one or more conductive layers separated by one or more dielectric or insulating layers. Adhesives and / or epoxy resins can be used to couple the various layers of the flexible circuit 208 together. The layers of the flexible circuit can be laser cut or etched to allow the electronic components to be soldered or otherwise coupled to the conductive layers of the flexible circuit 208.

[0067] Return to reference Figure 2 , the flexible circuit 208 can be electrically coupled to the ablation controller 104 via one or more leads 212, 210 ( Figure 1). Each of the sensors, pads, electrodes, heaters, or other electrical components may be coupled to the ablation controller 104 via a lead. The leads 210, 212 may be suitable wires or conductors that transmit electrical signals and / or currents from and to the ablation controller 104. As shown, the leads 210, 212 may be positioned along an outer surface of the housing 202. In other examples, the leads 210, 212 may be embedded in or coupled to the housing 202, or routed through the housing 202 or through an inner cavity of the housing 202.

[0068] As further shown, the probe 200 may include a cryogen supply 204. The cryogen supply 204 may be fluidly connected to a source of cryogen (not shown), which may supply cryogen via a pump, valve, or other element. Such an element may be a part of a cryogen delivery system and / or may be connected to a cryogen delivery system to supply cryogen to the probe 200. The cryogen may flow along a cryogen path in the probe 200. The cryogen path may include a cryogen inflow portion defined by the interior of the cryogen supply 204. The cryogen path may also include a cryogen outflow portion defined by the inner surface of the housing 202 and the outer surface of the cryogen supply 204. The cryogen may flow in through the cryogen supply and flow out of the probe 200 (as indicated by an arrow) along the cryogen outflow portion. During ablation treatment, the cryogen flow may remove heat from the target tissue, where the probe 200 may be located.

[0069] Utilizing both the flexible circuit 208 and the cryogen path, the probe 200 can be configured to operate in an RF mode of operation and / or a cryo mode of operation to provide a freezing cycle and / or a heating cycle during an ablation treatment. In some examples, the cryosystem of the probe 200 and the flexible circuit 208 of the probe 200 can be operated simultaneously. For example, when the probe is performing a freezing cycle, the flexible circuit 208 can be operated to heat a portion of the probe 200 to shape the puck in a desired manner. In addition, the flexible circuit 208 can be operated during the freezing cycle to collect measurement data, such as temperature data, via one or more measurement points located on the flexible circuit.

[0070] The flexible circuit 208 can be configured as a single integrally formed circuit that can be secured to the probe 200. In other examples, the flexible circuit 208 can be a plurality of separate flexible pieces secured to the probe 200 and electrically coupled to each other and / or to an ablation controller.

[0071] Reference now Figure 3 and Figure 4 , an alternative embodiment of a flexible circuit is shown. Figure 3In the example shown in , the probe 300 may include a flexible circuit 304. As shown, the flexible circuit 304 may be configured to have a shape that does not cover the entire outer surface of the housing 302. The flexible circuit may have a cutout, opening, or discontinuous outer contour to allow portions of the housing 302 to be exposed between portions of the flexible circuit 304. Such a flexible circuit 304 may be used, for example, to allow portions of the housing 302 to contact target tissue during ablation treatment. Such a configuration may be desirable for improving the efficiency of heat transfer through the housing 302 during a freezing cycle. In a configuration in which the flexible circuit 304 is disposed over the entire outer surface, the flexible circuit may inhibit heat transfer to a certain extent.

[0072] In such Figure 4 In another example shown in , the probe 400 may include multiple flexible circuits. In this example, the probe 400 includes a first flexible circuit 404 and a second flexible circuit 408. The first flexible circuit 404 may be located at a different axial position than the second flexible circuit 408. In addition, the first flexible circuit 404 may be spaced apart from the second flexible circuit 408 to expose a portion of the housing 402 between the flexible circuits.

[0073] Figure 3 and Figure 4The examples of show two alternatives, but many other configurations may be used. The flexible circuit may have circular, square, rectangular or other shaped holes and / or may have other outer contours to allow portions of the housing of the probe to be exposed between or adjacent to portions of the housing covered by the flexible circuit. The flexible circuit may have various extensions, fingers or other shapes to position electrical components such as heaters, leads, pads, electrodes, sensors, etc. at desired locations along the housing of the probe at various circumferential and / or axial positions relative to the tip of the probe. In various examples, the flexible circuit may be configured to cover a portion of the entire outer surface area of ​​the housing. In some examples, the flexible circuit may be configured to cover less than 100% of the surface area of ​​the housing, suitably less than 90% or even less than 80% of the surface area of ​​the housing. In one embodiment, the flexible circuit is configured to cover no more than 75% of the surface area of ​​the housing. In some examples, the flexible circuit may be configured to cover more than 30%, suitably more than 40% or even more than 45% of the surface area of ​​the housing. In one embodiment, the flexible circuit is configured to cover at least 50% of the surface area of ​​the housing. In another example, the flexible circuit can be configured to cover about 50%-75% of the surface area of ​​the housing. In yet other examples, other coverage ratios can also be used. In determining such coverage ratios, the percentage can be performed by determining the total surface of the housing of the probe from the tip to a predetermined distance from the tip. The surface of the flexible circuit can be determined relative to the total surface of the housing, along the same axial distance from the tip.

[0074] Reference now Figure 5 , an exemplary flexible circuit 500 is shown. The flexible circuit 500 can be configured to be positioned along the outer surface of the probe as previously described. In this example, the flexible circuit includes a plurality of electrical pads 504a, 504b to 504n. The flexible circuit 500 can be of various suitable lengths. The flexible circuit 500 can include a number of electrical pads from 1 to n. The pads 504 can be spaced apart along the flexible circuit 500 and can be coupled to the ablation controller to provide various functions. For example, the pads 504 can be configured as thermocouples, thermistors, pressure sensors, radio frequency (RF) leads, impedance sensors, RF power release pads, etc. Therefore, the pads can provide various functions, such as measurement collection, heating, RF treatment, coagulation, pain treatment, ablation, etc.

[0075] The flexible circuit 500 may also include one or more heaters 502a, 502b to 502n. The heater 502 may be configured as a resistive heater. The heater 502 may have various patterns to provide localized heating at the heater 502. The flexible circuit 500 may include various numbers of heaters from 1 to n. In some examples, the heaters 502 may be evenly spaced along the length of the flexible circuit 500. In other examples, the heater 502 may be positioned to provide heating to a desired area of ​​the probe. The heater 502 may be electrically coupled to an ablation heater and controlled to provide heating that may provide coagulation, thawing, ablation, etc.

[0076] exist Figure 6 600 is shown in FIG. 600. The flexible circuit 600 can be similar to the flexible circuit 500 in that the flexible circuit 600 can include one or more pads 604. The flexible circuit 600 can have a number of pads from 1 to n. The pads 604 can be similar to the previously described pads 504 and can have similar functions and structures as the previously described pads 504. The example flexible circuit 600 can also include one or more heaters 602. The flexible circuit 600 can include any suitable number of heaters 602. The flexible circuit 600 can include any suitable number of heaters from 1 to n. The heaters 602 can be positioned along the flexible circuit 600 to provide heating and functions as previously described with respect to the heaters 502 of the circuit 500. In this example, the heaters 602 can be coupled to the ablation controller and / or power source via wireless energy transfer. The heaters 602 can use external RF transmission power to convert wireless signals into heat and / or power for energy release.

[0077] Figure 5 and Figure 6 The examples shown in show example configurations of flexible circuits. In other examples, other variations and configurations may also be used. In various examples, the flexible circuit may include multiple rows of pads and / or multiple rows of heaters. In other examples, the pads and heaters may be staggered, alternating, and / or positioned in various arrays to provide heating, sensing, stimulation, ablation, pain relief, etc. as may be desired in various locations.

[0078] Now go to Figure 7 , an example method 700 of performing an ablation treatment is shown. In this example, one or more of the probes of the present disclosure and / or the ablation system 100 may be used. Although other systems and probes may be used, the method is described below with reference to the ablation 100 and probes 102, 200. However, it should be appreciated that the method 700 is not limited to the systems, probes, and / or flexible circuits referenced below.

[0079] The method 700 may begin at step 702. At step 702, the ablation controller 104 may deliver a cryogen to the probe 102. The ablation controller 104 may cause the cryogen to flow through a cryogen path to the probe 102. This may initiate a freezing cycle in which ice is formed at the target tissue. As may be appreciated, the probe 102 may be inserted into or near the target tissue in the patient 120 prior to the start of step 702.

[0080] At step 704, the ablation controller 104 may receive measurement data from one or more measurement points on the flexible circuit of the probe 102. The measurement points may be configured in various suitable arrangements or configurations, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 The measurement points on the flexible circuit can provide temperature, pressure, impedance and / or other measurement data to the ablation controller 104 and / or the ablation computing device 106.

[0081] At step 706, the ablation controller 104 and / or the ablation computing device 106 may compare the measured data to a treatment plan. The treatment plan may have been determined prior to treatment based on the patient's needs, tissue type, tissue location, etc. The treatment plan may include various thresholds, ranges, cycle times, duty cycles, signal profiles, etc. that may characterize ablation freeze cycles, RF cycles, heating, etc. The treatment plan may also include information to characterize identification characteristics of bleeding conditions or other tissue conditions.

[0082] At step 708, the ablation controller 104 and / or the ablation computing device 106 may deliver the RF signal to an RF transmitter located on the flexible circuit. The RF transmitter may be an RF electrode, an RF heater, a resistive heater, a microwave antenna, etc. The RF signal may have a specified duty cycle, frequency, pulse width, duration, power, frequency, current, or other characteristics to provide the desired heating, coagulation, or possibly desired heating. In some examples, the characteristics of the RF signal may be specified in a treatment plan.

[0083] In some examples, the RF signal may be provided to perform an RF ablation cycle. Alternatively, the RF signal may be provided to perform a coagulation process. Alternatively, the RF signal may be provided to perform a thawing process to assist in removing the probe 102 after a cryoablation treatment. The RF signal may also be provided to perform a pain relief or stimulation treatment.

[0084] As can be seen, method 700 may include both cryogenic and RF cycles, procedures and / or treatments. Cryogenic and RF operations may be provided during one treatment or a co-treatment.

[0085] The above description is provided for illustration, and it should be appreciated that the methods and processes described are not limited to the order and exact execution described above. Other methods that change the order of the steps may also be performed. In addition, other methods may not include all of the steps shown and described and / or may include additional steps.

[0086] Reference now Figure 8 , an example computing device 800 is shown. The ablation system 100 may include one or more computing devices 800. For example, the ablation computing device 106 may have Figure 8 The methods of the present disclosure, such as method 700 , may be performed by computing device 800 , or the steps of such methods may be performed by computing device 800 .

[0087] As shown, computing device 800 may include one or more processors 802, working memory 804, one or more input / output devices 806, instruction memory 808, transceiver 812, one or more communication ports 814, and display 816, all of which are operably coupled to one or more data buses 810. Data bus 810 allows communication between various devices. Data bus 810 may include wired or wireless communication channels.

[0088] The processor 802 may include one or more different processors, each of which has one or more cores. Each of the different processors may have the same or different structures. The processor 802 may include one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more graphics processing units (GPUs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), etc.

[0089] The processor 802 may be configured to perform a certain function or operation by executing a code stored on the instruction memory 808, which embodies the function or operation. For example, the processor 802 may be configured to perform one or more functions, steps, methods or operations disclosed herein.

[0090] The instruction memory 808 may store instructions that may be accessed (e.g., read) and executed by the processor 802. For example, the instruction memory 808 may be a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium such as a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a flash memory, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, any non-volatile memory, or any other suitable memory.

[0091] The processor 802 may store data to and read data from the working memory 804. For example, the processor 802 may store a working instruction set, such as instructions loaded from the instruction memory 808, to the working memory 804. The processor 802 may also use the working memory 804 to store dynamic data created during operation of the ablation computing device 106. The working memory 804 may be a random access memory (RAM), such as a static random access memory (SRAM) or a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), or any other suitable memory.

[0092] Input-output device 806 may include any suitable device that allows data to be input or output. For example, input-output device 806 may include one or more of the following: a keyboard, a touch pad, a mouse, a stylus, a touch screen, physical buttons, a speaker, a microphone, or any other suitable input or output device.

[0093] For example, communication port(s) 814 may include: a serial port, such as a universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter (UART) connection, a universal serial bus (USB) connection; or any other suitable communication port or connection. In some examples, communication port(s) 814 allow programming of executable instructions in instruction memory 808. In some examples, communication port(s) 814 allow transmission (e.g., upload or download) of data such as measurement data.

[0094] The display 816 can display a user interface 818. The user interface 818 can enable a user to interact with the ablation computing device 106. For example, the user interface 818 can be a user interface that allows an operator to interact, communicate, control, and / or modify different messages, settings, or features that can be presented or otherwise displayed to the user. The user interface 818 may include a slider, a dialog box, or other input fields that allow the user to control, communicate, or modify settings, limitations, or inputs used in cryoablation treatment. In addition, the user interface 818 may include one or more input fields or controls that allow the user to modify or control optional features or customizable aspects of the ablation computing device 106 and / or operating parameters of the ablation system 100. In some examples, the user can interact with the user interface 818 by engaging the input-output device 806. In some examples, the display 816 can be a touch screen, wherein the user interface 818 is displayed on the touch screen. In other examples, the display 816 can be a computer display that can be interacted with using a mouse or keyboard.

[0095] The transceiver 812 allows for communication with a network. In some examples, the transceiver 812 is selected based on the type of communication network in which the ablation computing device 106 will operate. The processor(s) 802 are operable to receive data from or send data to a network coupling elements of the ablation system 100, such as a wired or wireless network.

[0096] The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for the purpose of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure. The individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in selected embodiments, even if not specifically shown or described. The individual elements or features of a particular embodiment can also be varied in a variety of ways. Such variations should not be considered as departing from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A probe for performing ablation treatment, comprising: a housing defining an outer surface; a cryogen supply conduit positioned in the housing; as well as A flexible circuit is positioned on at least a portion of the exterior surface of the housing. 2 . The probe of claim 1 , wherein the flexible circuit comprises at least one radio frequency (RF) transmitter configured to deliver RF energy to target tissue.

3. The probe of claim 1 or 2, wherein the flexible circuit comprises a plurality of measurement points configured to obtain measurement data during the ablation treatment.

4. The probe of claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the flexible circuit comprises a plurality of heaters.

5. The probe of any of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible circuit covers at least about 50% of the outer surface of the probe.

6. The probe of any preceding claim, wherein the outer surface of the housing is exposed between portions of the flexible circuit.

7. The probe of any of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible circuit comprises an RF transmitter configured to thaw an ice ball formed during a freeze cycle of the ablation treatment.

8. The probe of any of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible circuit comprises an RF transmitter configured to perform coagulation treatment of a bleeding condition.

9. The probe according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The flex circuit is a first flex circuit positioned at a first axial position on the housing; and The probe also includes a second flex circuit positioned at a second axial location on the housing.

10. The probe of any preceding claim, wherein the cryogen supply conduit defines an inflow for a cooling path, and an outer surface of the cryogen supply conduit and an inner surface of the housing define an outflow path.

11. The probe of any preceding claim, wherein the cryogen supply conduit is configured to move liquid or gaseous nitrogen through the probe.

12. The probe of any preceding claim, wherein the flexible circuit comprises a plurality of RF electrodes.

13. A probe according to any preceding claim, further comprising a microwave antenna.

14. An ablation system, comprising: An ablation controller coupled to the probe according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the ablation controller comprising at least one processor configured to deliver cryogen to the cryogen supply catheter and also configured to deliver RF signals to the RF transmitter on the flexible circuit.

15. A method comprising: delivering a cryogen to the probe; obtaining measurement data from one or more measurement points on a flexible circuit on the probe; as well as A radio frequency (RF) signal is delivered to an RF transmitter on the flexible circuit.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the step of delivering a cryogen to the probe performs a freezing cycle of an ablation treatment.

17. A method according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the steps of the method are performed during a co-treatment.

18. The method of claim 15, 16 or 17, wherein the radio frequency (RF) transmitter comprises an RF electrode.

19. The method of any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the radio frequency (RF) transmitter comprises a heater.

20. The method of any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the step of delivering the RF signal comprises performing a coagulation treatment.

21. The method of any one of claims 15 to 20, wherein the step of delivering the RF signal comprises ablating the target tissue.

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