Pump and cartridge system for microwave ablation

Abstract

An apparatus for cooling an ablation probe includes a cartridge receptacle configured to receive a cartridge including a supply tube for supplying coolant to the ablation probe. The apparatus also includes a pump head movably positioned proximate the cartridge receiver. The pump head is configured to move between a loading position and an operating position. The pump head includes one or more rollers configured to engage the supply tube of the cartridge when the pump head is in the operational position. The device also includes an actuator connected to the pump head. The actuator is configured to move the pump head between the loading position and the operating position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a pump and cassette system for moving a cooling fluid. More particularly, the present invention relates to a pump and cassette system that can be used as part of a microwave ablation system to move a cooling fluid through a microwave ablation probe assembly. Background Art

[0002] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

[0003] Ablation devices and systems are used to perform ablative treatments in which a probe is inserted at or near a target tissue of a patient. The target tissue is typically abnormal tissue, such as a tumor or other growth. Ablation treatments are performed to destroy the target tissue, thereby reducing the likelihood that the target tissue will grow or spread further within the patient. One type of ablation is thermal ablation. In thermal ablation, a probe positioned at or near the target tissue raises the temperature of the target tissue (usually in a localized area near the probe) to a temperature at which the target tissue is destroyed.

[0004] Thermal ablation can be induced by transmitting microwaves at or near the target tissue. A microwave generator can be used, which sends microwave signals to an antenna in the ablation probe. The antenna can transmit microwave energy into the surrounding tissue, raising the temperature of such tissue to a temperature sufficient to cause thermal ablation.

[0005] It may be desirable to move the heat energy generated during thermal ablation away from the probe or away from the cable that operably connects the ablation probe to the ablation console. However, existing systems have various disadvantages, including complexity, difficulty in use, inefficiency, and / or undesirable movement of the ablation probe during treatment. Therefore, there is a need for an improved pump system that is easily operable and exhibits improved performance. Summary of the invention

[0006] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

[0007] The present disclosure provides a cooling system that can be used to cool or remove thermal energy from an ablation probe. The cooling system can be incorporated into a microwave ablation console that can provide a microwave signal to the ablation probe and simultaneously provide thermal management of the ablation probe. The cooling system can include a box that can be loaded into a box receptacle of the ablation console. A pump assembly can be included to engage a supply tube in the box and move coolant through a coolant flow path that includes the ablation probe. The pump assembly can be configured to automatically engage and apply a compressive force to the supply tube to provide a steady, steady flow of coolant in an improved manner relative to existing systems.

[0008] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a device for cooling an ablation probe is provided. The device may include a box receiving seat, which is configured to receive a box including a supply tube for supplying a coolant to the ablation probe. The device may also include a pump head movably positioned near the box receiving seat, and the pump head is configured to move between a loading position and an operating position. The pump head may include one or more rollers, which are configured to engage the supply tube of the box when the pump head is in the operating position. The device may also include an actuator connected to the pump head. The actuator can be configured to move the pump head between the loading position and the operating position.

[0009] In one aspect, a cartridge receptacle may be positioned in the front face and configured to receive a cartridge in a loading orientation.

[0010] In another aspect, the pump head may be configured to move between the loading position and the operating position along an engagement direction.The engagement direction may be oriented orthogonal to the loading direction.

[0011] In another aspect, the loading direction may be a horizontal direction and the engaging direction may be a vertical direction.

[0012] In another aspect, the actuator may include a spring and a stepper motor; and the spring may be configured to apply a predetermined force to the supply tube via the pump head when the stepper motor moves the pump head to the operating position.

[0013] In another aspect, the actuator may be indirectly coupled to the pump head via one or more arms.

[0014] In another aspect, the device may include a first arm and a second arm. The first arm and the second arm may each be connected to the pump head at a first end and each be connected to the rotation axis at a second end. The actuator may be positioned between and connected to the first arm and the second arm.

[0015] In another aspect, the apparatus may include a blocking plate positioned in the cartridge receptacle.

[0016] In another aspect, the blocking plate can have an upwardly facing concave shape.

[0017] In another aspect, the blocking plate is fixed.

[0018] In another aspect, the device may include a cartridge.

[0019] In another aspect, the cartridge may include a housing defining an opening, and the supply tube extends through the opening.

[0020] In another aspect, the cassette can include a chamber within the cassette.The chamber can be fluidly connected to the supply tube and the chamber can be configured to dampen pressure oscillations during operation of the pump head.

[0021] In another aspect, the inlet of the chamber is positioned vertically above the outlet of the chamber.

[0022] In another aspect, the cartridge may include one or more magnets configured to retain the cartridge in a desired position in the cartridge receptacle.

[0023] In another aspect, the retainer can be coupled to the pump and configured to move with the pump head when the pump head moves from the loading position to the operating position. The retainer can be configured to engage the cassette and retain the cassette in the cassette receptacle when the pump head is in the operating position.

[0024] In another aspect, the housing of the cassette can define an opening for receiving the retainer when the pump head is in the operative position.

[0025] In another aspect, the supply tube of the cassette is fluidly connected to a coolant flow path configured to remove thermal energy away from the microwave ablation probe.

[0026] In another aspect, the cartridge may be part of an ablation probe assembly, and the ablation probe assembly may also include a cable and an ablation probe.

[0027] In another aspect, the apparatus may further include one or more microwave generators configured to deliver microwave signals to the microwave ablation probe.

[0028] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a method for cooling an ablation probe is provided. The method may include receiving a cartridge into a cartridge receptacle of an ablation console, moving a pump head to engage a supply tube of the cartridge, and operating the pump head to move a coolant through the supply tube.

[0029] In one aspect, the step of moving the pump into engagement with the supply tube may be performed automatically in response to detecting that the cartridge is in a predetermined position in the cartridge receptacle.

[0030] In another aspect, the step of moving the pump head can include applying a predetermined force to the supply tube.

[0031] In another aspect, the method can include receiving input of one or more operating parameters from a user.The one or more operating parameters can include a rotational speed of the pump head and a force applied by the pump head to the supply tube.

[0032] In another aspect, the method may include determining one or more characteristics of the cartridge and setting one or more operating parameters based on the one or more characteristics of the cartridge.

[0033] In another aspect, the pump head is movable in an engagement direction orthogonal to a loading direction of the cassette into the cassette receptacle.

[0034] In another aspect, the method may include retaining the cartridge in the cartridge receptacle as the pump is moved into engagement with the supply tube.

[0035] In another aspect, the method can include adjusting a force applied by the pump head to the supply tube.

[0036] 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

[0037] For illustrative purposes, the drawings described herein are only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 1 is an isometric view of an example microwave ablation system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 2 Yes, it can be Figure 1 An isometric view of an example microwave ablation console and ablation probe assembly of a portion of a microwave ablation system.

[0040] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Isometric view of a sample microwave ablation console.

[0041] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 Another isometric view of an example microwave ablation console.

[0042] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 An isometric view of an exemplary microwave ablation console with the upper portion of the housing removed.

[0043] Figure 6 is an isometric view of an exemplary pump assembly of the present disclosure shown in a raised or stowed configuration.

[0044] Figure 7 is shown in reduced or operating configuration Figure 6 Isometric view of the pump assembly.

[0045] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A partial cross-sectional view of the rear portion of the pump assembly.

[0046] Fig. 9 yes Figure 7 A partial cross-sectional view of the rear portion of the pump assembly.

[0047] Fig.10 is an isometric front view of an example cartridge of the present disclosure.

[0048] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 Isometric back view of the box.

[0049] Fig.12 yes Fig.10 and Fig.11 An isometric view of the box with the outer shell removed to show the internal components.

[0050] Fig.13 is a block diagram illustrating an example ablation console according to the present disclosure.

[0051] Fig.14 is a flow chart illustrating an example method of cooling an ablation probe according to the present disclosure.

[0052] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the purposes of the following description, it should be understood that the embodiments described below may take alternative variations and embodiments. It should also be understood that the specific articles, compositions and / or methods described herein are exemplary and should not be considered restrictive. In the specification, relative terms such as "lower", "upper", "horizontal", "vertical", "above", "below", "up", "lower", "top" and "bottom" and their derivatives (e.g., "horizontally", "downwardly", "upwardly", etc.) should be interpreted as referring to the orientation described subsequently or as shown in the accompanying drawings under discussion. These related terms are for the convenience of description and do not require the device to be constructed or operated in a specific orientation. Terms such as "connected" and "interconnected" about attachment, coupling, etc. refer to a relationship in which structures are fixed or attached to each other directly or indirectly through an intermediate structure, as well as a removable or rigid attachment or relationship, unless otherwise explicitly described.

[0054] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. can be used here to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited to these terms. These terms can only be used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or part from another region, layer or part. Terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply order or sequence when used in this article unless the context clearly indicates. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer or part discussed below can be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer or part, without departing from the teaching of exemplary embodiments.

[0055] In the present disclosure, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural references, and references to a particular numerical value include at least that particular value unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. When a value is expressed as an approximation by using the antecedent "about", it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. As used herein, "about X" (where X is a numerical value) preferably refers to ±10% of the stated value, including the end values. For example, the phrase "about 8" preferably refers to values ​​of 7.2 to 8.8, including 7.2 and 8.8. When present, all ranges are inclusive and combinable. For example, when a range of "1 to 5" is listed, the listed range should be interpreted as including the ranges "1 to 4", "1 to 3", "1-2", "1-2 & 4-5", "1-3 & 5", "2-5", etc. In addition, when a list of alternatives is affirmatively provided, such a list can be interpreted to mean that any alternative can be excluded, such as by a negative limitation in the claim. For example, when a range of "1 to 5" is recited, the recited range may be interpreted as including any of 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, with the negative exclusion; thus, the expression "1 to 5" may be interpreted as "1 and 3-5, but not 2", or simply "where 2 is not included". Any components, elements, attributes or steps explicitly recited therein are explicitly excluded in the claims, regardless of whether they are listed as alternatives or in isolation.

[0056] In some embodiments of the present invention, an improved cooling system is provided. The cooling system may be provided as part of a microwave ablation console. The console may include one or more microwave generators configured to deliver microwave signals to a microwave ablation probe. The cooling system may include a pump and a box operatively used to deliver a cooling fluid to the ablation probe and / or an ablation cable connecting the ablation probe to the console. The cooling fluid may circulate to remove heat energy from the ablation probe and / or the ablation cable.

[0057] The improved cooling system of the present disclosure overcomes various disadvantages of existing systems and also improves performance, ease of installation and operation compared to known systems and methods. In some embodiments, the pump can be integrated into the microwave ablation console and allows the box to be easily installed in the appropriate position to join the coolant fluid conduit to the pump. The configuration of the present console reduces the possibility of misalignment or improper assembly that may lead to inefficient operation or failure.

[0058] Existing cooling systems typically include a pump mechanism that is a separate unit from the microwave ablation console. This requires an increase in the length of the cooling fluid conduit and may require operations that are unrelated to the operation of the microwave ablation console. Existing cooling systems also require the user to manually install and position the cooling fluid conduit into the pump mechanism. This manual installation may require a lot of time and user experience to perform correctly. Existing systems may also use peristaltic pump assemblies, which cause uncontrolled and / or elevated pressure pulses during operation. Such elevated pressures typically require additional safety valves, high-strength or durable materials, which increase the cost of the assembly. In addition, the pressure pulses of existing pump assemblies can cause the cooling fluid conduit to physically move with each pressure pulse. This movement is undesirable because the ablation probe is positioned at a precise position relative to the target tissue, and movement of the cooling fluid conduit (which is connected to the ablation probe) can cause movement of the ablation probe.

[0059] Another disadvantage of existing systems is the limitation on the length of the cable that can be used to connect the microwave ablation probe to the ablation base unit. Existing designs require the ablation base unit to be positioned close to the patient and other equipment located in the treatment environment. This can make ablation treatment more difficult due to lack of space in the treatment environment. The cooling system of the present disclosure allows for greater and adjustable pumping pressures, which allows the cable used to couple the microwave ablation probe to the base to be extended. In some examples, the cooling system of the present invention may allow for cable lengths exceeding 10 feet. Such lengths are not possible using existing designs and methods. As further described below, the cooling system of the present invention overcomes these disadvantages of existing systems.

[0060] Reference now Figure 1 , an example microwave ablation device 100 is shown. The microwave ablation device 100 may include a portable base unit or console 102, a cart 104, and an ablation probe assembly 106. The console 102 may be located on the cart 104. As will be further described, the console 102 may include a microwave generator and a coolant pump. In some embodiments, the ablation device 100 may have the structure and function described in U.S. Patent Application No. TBD filed on the same date as the present application and filed by Varian Medical Systems, Inc., entitled "PORTABLEABLATION APPARATUS AND RELATED METHODS OF USE". The contents of the application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In various embodiments, the ablation device 100 may be operated to perform ablation therapy by sending a microwave signal to an antenna in the ablation probe 110 via a cable 116. The antenna may transmit microwaves to a target tissue at or near the ablation probe 110. The microwaves may cause an elevated temperature at the target tissue to destroy the target tissue.

[0061] During an ablation treatment, the ablation device 100 may also deliver cooling fluid or coolant from a coolant container 112 to the probe 110 using a coolant pump located within the console 102. A coolant cartridge or box 114 may be inserted into the front of the console 102 and engage a pump to move coolant from the coolant container 112 to the probe 110 via a cable 116. The movement of the coolant may absorb thermal energy from the cable 116 and / or the probe 110, thereby effectively cooling the cable 116 and / or portions of the probe 110.

[0062] As can be seen, the console 102 and the cart 104 can be easily moved in a hospital, treatment center, or other environment. The cart 104 may include a support surface such as a platform 108, which is positioned in an elevated position above the floor to allow access to the functions of the system. The platform 108 can be positioned at a height approximately the same as the treatment height of the patient, for example. The patient undergoing ablation therapy can be located, for example, on a bed of an imaging system. The imaging system can be a CT scanner, an MRI machine, an X-ray device, or other imaging device. By positioning the console 102 at a height approximately equal to the height of the bed of the imaging system, ablation therapy can be performed more easily. In addition, the console 102 can be moved to the side of the bed, so that the length of the cable 116 required to deliver microwave signals and / or coolants from the base unit to the probe 110 can be shortened compared to ablation systems that are more cumbersome or need to be located at other locations in the treatment environment.

[0063] The console 102 can be portable in that it can be lifted and moved by one user. The console 102 can be removed from the cart 104 and positioned on a table, counter, or other surface in a treatment or laboratory environment. The console 102 may include a housing 204 ( Figure 2 ). The housing 204 may include one or more walls defining an interior volume in which the internal components are located. Figure 2 As shown, the console 102 may include a first microwave port 224, a second microwave port 226, a first sensor port 220, and a second sensor port 222. The console 102 may also include a display 208 to allow input from a user and to display one or more operating parameters of the console 102.

[0064] The first microwave port 224 and the second microwave port 226 can be similarly configured and can be electrical connectors to allow the mating connector to electrically couple the ablation probe assembly 106 to a corresponding microwave generator located within the housing 204. In some examples, the first microwave port 224 can include a first label and the second microwave port 226 can include a second label. The first label and the second label can be different to allow the user to distinguish the ports. The first label and the second label can include various suitable identifiers, such as colors, symbols, letters, numbers, shapes, colored lights or other. In some examples, the first label and the second label can include multiple identifiers from a previous identifier list. The first label and the second label can be used to guide the operator in the setting and use of the console 102 to ensure that the operator makes the correct connection. In some embodiments, the ablation probe assembly 106 can have the structure and function described in U.S. Patent Application No. TBD entitled "MICROWAVE ABLATION PROBE ASSEMBLY AND CABLE STRUCTURE" filed on the same day as the present application and applied by Varian Medical Systems, Inc. The content of this application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0065] The first microwave port 224 and the second microwave port 226 can be positioned in the front face 230 of the housing 204. This can allow a user to easily connect the ablation probe assembly 106 to the first microwave port 224 and / or the second microwave port 226. In other examples, the first microwave port 224 and the second microwave port 226 can be positioned at other locations in the housing 204, such as in a side wall or a top surface of the housing 204. Although Figure 2 The example console 102 shown includes two microwave generators and two microwave ports, but it should be understood that in some examples one generator and one port may be included, while in other examples more than two generators and ports may be included.

[0066] As further shown in this example, the console 102 may include a first sensor port 220 and a second sensor port 222 positioned on the front face 230. Such positioning may allow an operator to easily connect one or more sensors 240 to the console 102. Figure 2As shown, the ablation probe assembly 106 may include a sensor probe 240. In some examples, the sensor probe 240 may be provided independently of the ablation probe assembly 106. In other examples, the sensor probe 240 may be provided together with the ablation probe assembly 106. The sensor probe 240 may be positioned at or near the target tissue of the patient during ablation therapy to monitor and / or determine one or more parameters. For example, the sensor probe 240 may include one or more measurement points capable of measuring the impedance, temperature, humidity, density or other characteristics of the patient. The measurement information may be transmitted to the console 102 via a sensor cable 242. The sensor cable 242 may terminate at a sensor connector, which may be connected to the console 102 at a first sensor port 220 and / or a second sensor port 222. The information may be sent to a processor, memory or other element in the console 102 to be stored and / or displayed on the display 208. Although the example console 102 includes two sensor ports 220, 222, it should be understood that in other examples, the console 102 may include less than two sensor ports or more than two sensor ports.

[0067] Now refer to Figure 3 , the console 102 may include one or more cartridge receptacles. In the example shown, the console 102 includes a first cartridge receptacle 302 and a second cartridge receptacle 304. It should be understood that other examples may include more than two cartridge receptacles.

[0068] The first box receiving seat 302 and the second box receiving seat 304 are similarly constructed in the illustrated example. The first box receiving seat 302 and the second box receiving seat 304 are shaped in a similar manner to the box that will be further described later. Utilize this complementary shape, a box can be inserted into each of the first box receiving seat 302 and / or the second box receiving seat 304. In this example, the first box receiving seat 302 and the second box receiving seat 304 all have a rounded rectangular shape, and are inserted in the front 230 of the console 102. One or more walls of the first box receiving seat 302 and the second box receiving seat 304 define an inwardly protruding cavity in the front 230. Box can be inserted in the cavity and remain in the desired position. The cavity may include a ratchet, a magnet, a clip, a lock or other retention features, so that the box is fixed in the cavity, while still allowing the user to remove or install the box in the cavity.

[0069] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As further shown, the first cartridge receiving seat 302 and the second cartridge receiving seat 304 can include a first blocking plate 306 and a second blocking plate 308, respectively. The first blocking plate 306 can be positioned on the inner vertical wall of the first cartridge receiving seat 302. The second blocking plate 308 can be positioned on the inner vertical wall of the second cartridge receiving seat 304. When the cartridge is positioned in the first cartridge receiving seat 302, the wall of the cavity guides the cartridge to the desired position and directs the supply tube 1004 ( Fig.10 ) is aligned to the appropriate position so that the supply tube 1004 is above the first blocking plate 306. The second box receiving seat 304 and the second blocking plate 308 are similarly constructed. The blocking plates 306, 308 can have a concave shape facing upward and are fixed on the console 102.

[0070] Now go to Figure 5 , the console 102 is shown with a portion of the housing removed to allow viewing of the internal components of the console 102. As shown, the first pump assembly 502 is positioned to operably engage a first cartridge receptacle (not shown) that can be inserted into the first cartridge receptacle 302. The console 102 may also include a second pump assembly 504, which is positioned to operably engage a second cartridge (not shown) that can be inserted into the second cartridge receptacle 304. The first pump assembly 502 and the second pump assembly 504 may be coupled to a control board 508. The control board 508 may include one or more processors, memory, and other control elements to allow the display 208 ( Figure 2 ) controls the functions of the pump assemblies 502, 504, the display 208 can allow the user to input, view, modify and operate various parameters and functions of the pump assemblies 502, 504. The first pump assembly 502 and the second pump assembly 504 are independent of each other and can be operated separately or simultaneously, which may be required for a particular treatment. In some cases, the settings, parameters and operations of the first pump assembly 502 and the second pump assembly 504 can be set and operated under the same or similar operating conditions. In other cases, the settings, parameters and operations of the first pump assembly 502 and the second pump assembly 504 may be different.

[0071] Now refer to Figures 6 to 9 , a first pump assembly 502 is shown. In the following description, the first pump assembly 502 is described, but it should be understood that the second pump assembly 504 includes the same or similar elements as the first pump assembly 502 and can provide the same functions as the first pump assembly 502. For the sake of brevity, the second pump assembly 504 is not described separately.

[0072] The first pump assembly 502 can include a pump head 602 and an actuator 606. The pump head 602 can be coupled to the actuator 606 via one or more arms to allow the pump head 602 to move relative to the occlusion plate 306. Figure 6The pump head 602 is shown in a loaded (or raised) position. Figure 7 The pump head 602 is shown in an operating (or lowered) position. In the example shown, the pump head 602 is coupled to the actuator 606 via a first arm 630 and a second arm 604. The first arm 630 is located on the front side of the actuator 606 (closer to the occlusion plate 306), while the second arm 604 is located on the rear side of the actuator 606 (away from the occlusion plate 306). In this configuration, the actuator 606 is located between the first arm 630 and the second arm 604.

[0073] As will be further described below, the actuator 606 moves the first arm 630 and the second arm 604 upward and downward, which in turn causes the pump head 602 to move in a vertical direction. As shown, the actuator 606 is connected to the first arm 630 and the second arm 604 at a position between the rotation axis 632 at one end of the arm and the pump head 602 at the opposite end of the arm 630, 604. The first arm 630 and the second arm 604 are connected to the first support member 622 and the second support member 624 at the rotation axis 632. The first support member 622 can also form a rear wall ( Figure 3 ). The first support member 622 can be vertically positioned as shown. In addition, the blocking plate 306 can be connected to the first support member 622 or formed integrally with the first support member 622.

[0074] The second support 624 can be oriented substantially parallel to but spaced apart from the first support 622. In this example, the second support 624 is located behind (in a direction away from the blocking plate 306) the first support 622. The second arm 604 can be connected to the second support 624 at the rotation axis 632.

[0075] The first support 622 may also include and / or support other elements of the pump assembly 502. The first support 622 may include one or more magnets 620. The magnets 620 may be located on a face of the first support 622 and located at or around the blocking plate 306. Figure 6 In the example shown, the first support member 622 includes two magnets 620, each positioned on an opposite lateral side of the blocking plate 306. The magnets 620 can be positioned so that when a cartridge is inserted into the cartridge receiving seat 302 ( Figure 3 ) to hold the cassette in a desired position. The cassette may include a ferrous tab that mates with magnet 620. In other examples, the cassette may include a mating magnet oriented to have a mating / facing / interfacing polarity opposite to magnet 620. When loading the cassette into cassette receptacle 302 ( Figure 3 ) during the process, the magnet 620 can position and hold the box in the desired position.

[0076] The first bracket 622 may also include a box sensor 618. The box sensor 618 may be mounted to the first bracket 622. The box sensor 618 is used to determine when the box has been inserted into the position in the box receiving seat 302. The box sensor 618 may be a proximity sensor, an optical sensor, etc. The first support 622 may include an opening through which a box pin 642 may be positioned. The box pin 642 may be biased to protrude through the opening in the first support 622. When the box is positioned in the box receiving seat 302, the box pin 642 may be pushed in a direction away from the blocking plate 306 (i.e., in a direction toward the inside of the console). The box sensor 618 may be located at or around the box pin 642, and may determine whether the box is located in the box receiving seat by determining the position of the box pin 618. The box pin 618 may be integrally formed with or connected to the swing arm 640. The swing arm 640 may be mounted to the first support 622. The box pin may extend downward from the swing arm 640 and be positioned in the opening of the first support 622. The cartridge sensor 618 can determine whether the cartridge has been positioned at the first support 622. In the example shown, the cartridge sensor 618 is located on the lateral side blocking plate 306. In other examples, the cartridge sensor 618 can be located in other locations. In other examples, the cartridge sensor 618 can be located in other locations and have other configurations.

[0077] The pump assembly 502 may also include a cartridge holder 636 and a position marker 608. Figure 7 ), the cartridge holder 636 operates to hold the cartridge in the cartridge receptacle. In the example shown, the cartridge holder 636 is connected to the first arm 630 and protrudes downward in a vertical direction toward the blocking plate 306. The cartridge holder 363 is configured to be inserted into a complementary shaped opening or recess in the cartridge. When the cartridge holder 636 is moved downward into the opening or recess in the cartridge, the cartridge cannot be removed from the cartridge receptacle until the pump assembly 502 is raised back to the loading position ( Figure 6 ). The cartridge retainer 636 can prevent the cartridge from being forcibly removed and / or the coolant conduit from being displaced during operation, which could damage the cartridge or pump assembly 502. In addition, the cartridge retainer 636 prevents undesired relative movement of the cartridge, which could adversely affect the flow of coolant to the ablation probe during operation.

[0078] The position mark 608 is operative to provide positioning information about the vertical position of the pump head 602. The position mark 608 extends away from the pump head 602 and toward the position sensor 644. The position sensor 644 is operative to determine the position of the position mark 608. The position sensor 644 can be mounted near the position mark 608 on the base 616. The position sensor 644 can be an optical sensor, a proximity sensor, etc. that is capable of determining the location and / or position of the position mark 608. As will be further described below, the pump head 602 can be moved vertically relative to the blocking plate 306 to a desired vertical position. The position mark 608 and the position sensor 644 operate to provide information about the position of the pump head 602 and / or the movement of the pump head 602 from its loading position ( Figure 6 ) to the operating position ( Figure 7 )'s movement. In other examples, the pump assembly 502 can include other sensors and / or can have different position markers to provide information about the movement and / or position of the pump head 602.

[0079] In the example shown, the pump head 602 operates as a peristaltic pump. The pump head 602 may include a motor 612 and a roller head 610. The motor 612 may be coupled to the roller head 610 so that the roller head rotates at a predetermined speed. The functional coupling may include a gearbox between the motor and the roller head to adjust the speed and torque of the motor to a desired speed and a desired torque. The motor 612 may be any suitable electronically controlled electric motor that can be adjusted to rotate the roller head 610. The roller head 610 includes a plurality of rollers 614 arranged at different intervals around the roller head 610. In the example shown, the roller head 610 includes four equally spaced rollers 614. In other examples, the roller head 610 may include more than four rollers, or less than four rollers. The rollers 614 may be spaced at 90 degree intervals around the center of the roller head 610. When the roller head 610 is lowered to a predetermined operating height relative to the blocking plate 306 ( Figure 7 ), the roller 614 is located at a predetermined gap from the top surface of the blocking plate 306. When the roller head 610 is rotated by the motor 612, the roller 614 squeezes the supply pipe of the box between the outer surface of the roller 614 and the top surface of the blocking plate, and the blocking plate moves the coolant located in the supply pipe. The flow rate and pressure of the coolant in the supply pipe can be adjusted by changing the gap between the roller 614 and the blocking plate 306, the force applied by the roller 614 to the supply pipe, and the rotation speed of the roller head 610.

[0080] Now go to Figure 8 and Fig. 9, the pump assembly 502 is shown as a partial cross-sectional view viewed from its back side, wherein the section passes through the actuator 606. From this view, the components of the actuator 606 and the back side of the first support 622 can be seen. In the example shown, the actuator 606 includes a motor 802, a shaft 804, a spring housing 806, a spring 808, and a compression member 810. The motor 802 can be any suitable motor that can move the shaft 804 to move the first arm, and thus the pump head 602, toward and away from the occlusion plate 306 ( Figure 6 ) moves. The motor 802 may be a stepper motor so that the movement of the shaft can be precisely controlled, and the actuator 606 may precisely position the pump head 602 at a predetermined position.

[0081] The motor 802 is connected to the shaft 804, which is in turn connected to the compression member 810. For example, the shaft 804 may include a threaded portion that cooperates with a complementary threaded portion of the compression member 810. When the motor 802 rotates the shaft 804, the compression member 810 may be pulled downward toward the motor 802. When the motor 802 rotates in the opposite rotational direction, the compression member 810 may move upward in a direction away from the motor 802. The compression member 810 may be indirectly coupled to the first arm 630 and the second arm 604 (not shown) by the spring 808 and the actuator housing 806 to cause the movement of the pump head 602 when the compression member 810 is moved by the motor 802 and the pump head 602 is located above its operating position. The motor 802 can be controlled by a control board or other control mechanism to accurately position the pump head 602 in a desired position.

[0082] In some examples, the motor 802 is a stepper motor. In other examples, the motor 802 can alternatively include a linear actuator, a worm drive, or other mechanism that can translate the shaft 804 and the compression member 810 without rotating.

[0083] After the roller head 610 of the pump assembly 502 is lowered to the operating position, the additional lowering of the compression member 810 causes the roller 614 to apply force to the supply tube positioned on the blocking plate 306. The actuator 606 can be used to control and change the magnitude of the force applied by the roller 614. The spring 808 is positioned in the housing 806 and coiled around the compression member 810. When the compression member 810 is pulled / lowered by the motor 802 while the pump head 602 is in the operating position, the compression member 810 moves downward relative to the housing 806, thereby compressing the spring 808 in the longitudinal direction along the axis of the compression member 810 and the spring 808. The force applied by the roller 614 can be adjusted or changed according to the longitudinal compression amount of the spring 808. A spring 808 with a predetermined spring constant can be selected. Therefore, when the spring 808 is compressed a predetermined longitudinal distance, the force applied by the roller can be determined. The control panel or other controller can be configured to display the applied force and allow the user to adjust the force applied by these rollers 614. Such input and / or control may be displayed on the display 208 via a user interface. Figure 2 )superior.

[0084] Actuator 606 is shown as an example of an actuator that can be used in pump assembly 502. In other examples, actuator 606 may include a solenoid, a pneumatic or electronic cylinder, a linear actuator, or other mechanism to move pump head 602 to a predetermined position and apply force through roller 614. In other examples, pump head 602 can be variably positioned and controlled using a screw drive, a pulley drive, and / or a linear motor positioned at the fulcrum of the first arm or the second arm. Pump assembly 502 may also include one or more sensors to determine the force and / or distance that pump head 602 moves or applies to the supply tube. Such sensors may include linear or rotary potentiometers or Hall effect sensors.

[0085] In the example shown, the actuator 606 can include a position sensor 646 mounted at or near the top of the housing 806. An actuation pin 648 can extend upward from the compression member 810 or from other portions of the actuator 606. The actuation pin 648 can be positioned at or near the position sensor 646. The position sensor 646 can determine the position and / or movement of the compression member 810 relative to the housing 806. This position information can be used to determine the position of the pump assembly 502 and / or determine the force applied by the roller 614.

[0086] Now refer to Figures 10 to 12, an example box 114 is shown. The box 114 may include a housing 1002, a supply tube 1004, an inlet tube 1006, a recirculation tube 1008, and an outlet tube 1010. The size and shape of the housing 1002 of the box 114 may correspond to the size and shape of the aforementioned box receiving seat 302. In this example, the housing 1002 has a rounded rectangular shape. The length L of the housing 1002 is greater than the depth of the box receiving seat 302. When the box 114 is inserted into the box receiving seat 302, the housing 1002 may protrude from the box receiving seat 302. In order to facilitate and allow the user to grasp and manipulate the box 114, the housing 1002 may include a groove 1014 that can be inserted from the upper surface of the housing 1002. In other examples, the housing 1002 may include other gripping features, such as ribs, embedded rubber to a viscous material, etc.

[0087] The housing 1002 may also include one or more openings 1012. The openings 1012 may be located at or near the distal side of the cartridge 114 inserted into the cartridge receptacle 302. The openings 1012 may be sized and positioned to allow the cartridge holder 636 ( Figure 6 ) engages opening 1012 and retains cartridge 114 in cartridge receptacle 302. Opening 1012 may be configured as a hole in housing 1002, or may be defined by a recess in a housing wall. Housing 1002 may be made of any suitable material, such as a molded plastic material, or the like.

[0088] The housing 1002 may also include a notch 1020 sized to allow the supply tube 1004 to be exposed and the blocker plate 306 to be positioned below the supply tube 1004 when the cartridge 114 is fully inserted into the cartridge receptacle 302. The opening 1020 may also allow the roller head 610 to engage the supply tube 1004. The lateral sides of the housing 1002 may support the supply tube 1004 on opposite sides of the opening 1020 and allow the rollers 614 of the roller head 610 to compress the supply tube 1004 against the blocker plate 306 during operation of the pump assembly 502.

[0089] This movement of the roller head 610 moves coolant through the supply tube 1004. The supply tube 1004 can be part of a coolant flow path that allows coolant (e.g., water, saline, etc.) to flow through to the ablation probe to transfer heat energy away from the ablation probe and / or probe cable 116 during ablation therapy. The coolant flow path can also allow coolant to move away from the ablation probe 110 and mix with coolant from the container 112 and / or recirculate through the coolant flow path.

[0090] Reference now Fig.12 , showing the internal components of the cartridge 114. The cartridge 114 is shown with the housing 1002 removed to show other internal components of this example cartridge 114. The coolant may be removed from the container 112 ( Figure 2 ) is introduced into the coolant flow path. The container 112 can be, for example, a saline bag. The coolant can be moved from the container to the box through an inlet tube 1006. The inlet tube 1006 can be fluidly connected to the supply tube 1004. The inlet tube 1006 and the supply tube can be a common length of tube. In other examples, the inlet tube 1006 can be coupled to the supply tube 1004 at an elbow so that the conduit can extend substantially horizontally across the opening 1020 of the box 114, and / or so that the supply tube 1004 can be a different material optimized for durability and functionality in the pump assembly 502.

[0091] During operation of the pump assembly 502 ( Figure 7 ), the roller 614 can compress the supply tube 1004 and cause the coolant to flow from the supply tube 1004 to the chamber 1202. The chamber 1202 can be a hollow container that is initially filled with air. The chamber 1202 can act as an air damper to prevent and / or minimize cyclic pressure oscillations in the coolant flow path. The pressure oscillations can be caused by the alternating engagement and disengagement of the individual pump rollers 614 against the supply tube 1004 and the blocking plate 306. Depending on the relative position of the rollers 614 along the blocking plate 306 or other reasons, the inconsistent rotational speed of the roller head 610 of the pump can cause oscillation and physical movement of the coolant pipe. Such movement of the coolant tube is undesirable because it distracts the user of the ablation system. The movement also makes it difficult to position the ablation probe 110 at the target tissue and / or to keep the ablation probe 110 at the target tissue.

[0092] The chamber 1202, initially filled with air, allows pumped coolant to enter, which initially displaces some of the chamber air, pushing the displaced air out of the outlet tube 1010. Because the coolant is denser than the air, the coolant will move to the lower portion of the chamber 1202, while the air will rise to the top of the chamber, so that the coolant cannot displace the air at the top of the chamber (gravitationally above the inlet and outlet) and this air remains trapped in the chamber. The trapped air can act as a buffer to prevent movement and / or backflow of coolant in the coolant flow path. This can act to resist pressure oscillations in the coolant flow path.

[0093] The coolant may exit the chamber 1202 at a location vertically below the entrance of the chamber 1202. The coolant may exit the chamber 1202 through the outlet tube 1010, where it may flow to the ablation probe 110 through the cable 116. The chamber 1202 may also include a pressure relief valve 1204. The pressure relief valve 1204 may allow the coolant to escape from the chamber if the pressure in the chamber rises above a predetermined pressure threshold. Although not shown, the valve outlet 1206 may be coupled to the recirculation tube 1008 via a T or Y connection, rather than allowing the coolant to leak into the box 114 and potentially damage the console 102.

[0094] After supplying the coolant to the cable 116 and the probe 110 of the ablation probe assembly 106, the coolant can be returned to the recirculation tube 1008 via the return tube. The recirculation tube 1008 can be fluidly connected to the container 112 and / or the inlet tube 1006, wherein the coolant at an elevated temperature can mix with the coolant in the container 112 and / or the inlet tube 1006. In this way, the coolant can be maintained in a closed loop system and circulated through the ablation probe 110 and the cable 116 to reduce the operating temperature of the probe 110 and / or the cable 116.

[0095] The present disclosure also contemplates various methods that may be performed using various embodiments of the cooling systems and ablation consoles of the present disclosure.As previously described, the pump assembly 502 and / or the cassette 114 may be used together as part of an ablation system to perform ablation therapy. Fig.13 An exemplary ablation console 1300 is shown, which will be used to describe the various methods contemplated in the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that any ablation console or various elements and variations thereof may also be used to perform the described methods.

[0096] As shown, the ablation console 1300 includes a housing 1320 that can enclose a controller 1302, a first pump assembly 1304, a second pump assembly 1306, and a microwave generator 1312. The controller 1302 can be coupled to the first pump assembly 1304, the second pump assembly 1306, and the microwave generator 1312. In this way, the controller 1302 can control various aspects and operating conditions of the first pump assembly 1304, the second pump assembly 1306, and the microwave generator 1312. The controller 1302 can be configured as a computing device, a PCB, a dedicated circuit, a programmable logic controller, or other suitable device. The controller 1302 can include, for example, one or more processors, memories, storage media, input / output devices, and other elements known to those of ordinary skill in the art. The controller 1302 can also be coupled to a display 1314. The display 1314 can be configured to display a user interface 1316. The display and user interface 1316 can be configured to allow a user to view, select, choose, and enter various types of information, such as operating parameters of the ablation console 1300.

[0097] The console 1300 may also include a first cartridge receptacle and a second cartridge receptacle. The first cartridge 1308 may be received in the console 1300, and the second cartridge 1310 may also be received in the console 1300. The first pump assembly 1304, the second pump assembly 1306, the first cartridge 1308, and the second cartridge 1310 may be constructed as described above and / or include variations thereof.

[0098] Now go to Fig.14, an example method 1400 is provided. The example method 1400 can be performed, for example, by the console 1300. The method 1400 can start at step 1402. At step 1402, the box 114 can be received in the box receiving seat of the console 1300. The controller 1302 can perform operations at step 1402. The controller 1302 can ensure that the pump head of the pump assembly 1304, 1306 is in the loading position. The controller 1302 can also display an indicator or icon on the user interface 1316, which notifies the user that the console is ready to accept the box. Then, the user can insert the box 1308 into the console 1300. As previously described, the user can insert the box into the console along the loading direction. In some examples, the loading direction can correspond to the horizontal direction in which the box 1308 is inserted into the front of the console 1300.

[0099] Method 1400 may then proceed to step 1404. At step 1404, controller 1302 may determine one or more characteristics of cartridge 1308. In some examples, cartridge 1308 may include a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, and console 1300 may include an RFID reading device. The RFID tag may include information about type, size, recommended operating parameters, identification number, patient identifier, or other information. Such information may be obtained by controller 1302. Controller 1302 may then set, modify, or otherwise determine operating parameters of console 1300, such as the rotation speed of the pump assembly, the force applied to the supply tube, time, duration, etc. The controller may automatically send signals to various elements of console 1300 to prepare the console for ablation therapy. In other examples, cartridge 1308 may include other features that may indicate such information to the console. The cartridge may include, for example, a barcode, a quick response (QR) code, pogo-pins, an identification number, etc. An optical sensor, reader, or other information gathering device in console 1300 may obtain information from cartridge 1308. Additionally, the console 1300 may detect or determine whether the cartridge is properly seated and positioned in the console 1300. The controller 1302 may use magnets, optical sensors, or other sensors to determine whether and when the cartridge is positioned in a predetermined position in the console 1300.

[0100] The method 1400 may then proceed to step 1406. In step 1406, the controller 1302 may send a signal to an actuator of the pump assembly 1304 to move the pump head of the pump assembly 1304 from the loading position to the operating position. In the operating position, the pump head engages the supply tube of the box 1308. The controller 1302 may automatically move the pump to the operating position in response to determining that the box 1308 is located and positioned in a predetermined position in the console 1300. The controller 1302 may also receive input from the user, for example via the user interface 1316, to indicate that the user wishes to move the pump head to the operating position. If the pump head encounters an obstacle when it moves to the operating position and / or if one or more sensors as described above indicate that the box 1308 is not in the proper position in the console 1300, the controller 1302 may provide an indication of an error or failure.

[0101] The controller 1302 may also cause the pump head to exert a force on the supply tube when the pump head moves to engage with the supply tube. As described above, the actuator of the pump assembly 1304 may be used for this purpose. The controller 1302 may set the force exerted by the pump head on the supply source to a predetermined force range and / or set one or more predetermined force thresholds. The force range and / or force threshold may be indicated based on information obtained by the controller 1302 from the box 1308.

[0102] Controller 1302 can also determine the position of the pump head and / or verify that the pump head is positioned at a predetermined position, such as a height above the supply tube and / or above the blocking plate. This positioning information of the pump head can be obtained using position markers and position sensors as described above. In other examples, controller 1302 can use other sensors and positioning indicators to determine that the pump head is in a desired position. Controller 1302 can indicate the positioning of the pump head on user interface 1316.

[0103] The method 1400 may then move to step 1408. At step 1408, the controller 1302 may operate the pump head. The controller 1302 may cause, for example, a motor of the pump assembly 1304 to rotate the roller assembly at a predetermined rotational speed. In addition, during such rotation, the roller assembly may exert a predetermined force on the supply tube. This action may cause the coolant in the supply tube to flow through the coolant flow path to supply the coolant to the ablation probe, thereby removing thermal energy and maintaining the ablation probe and / or the cable of the ablation probe assembly below a temperature threshold or within a predetermined temperature range. It is understood that the controller 1302 may also cause the microwave generator 1312 to provide a microwave signal to the ablation probe to cause thermal ablation at the target tissue. The controller 1302 may also adjust, modify and / or maintain the coolant flow in response to a received temperature or other operating characteristics of the ablation probe assembly. The controller 1302 may operate the pump head for a desired time or in response to a user's input. The ablation treatment and its characteristics, such as duration, number of cycles, operating parameters, temperature, etc., may be stored in the memory of the controller 1302, input by a user, and / or obtained from a treatment plan.

[0104] Method 1400 can then move to step 1410. In step 1410, controller 1302 can move the pump head out of engagement with the supply tube. In step 1410 (or before), controller 1302 may have stopped the rotation of the roller head assembly. Controller 1302 can raise the pump head or otherwise move the pump head from the operating position to the loading position. This motion can be performed to move the pump head in the engagement direction. In the example shown, the engagement direction is a vertical direction. The engagement direction can be perpendicular to the loading direction of the box 1308 into the console 1300.

[0105] Once the pump head is disengaged from the supply tube, the cartridge 1308 may be removed from the console 1300. In other cases, the method 1400 may end. It will be appreciated that if it is desired to use a new or different cartridge 1308 to cool the ablation probe, the method 1400 may be repeated. In some cases, the ablation probe assembly may be disposable, and a new ablation probe assembly with a new cartridge may be used for an ablation treatment. In other cases, one or more steps may be repeated in the method 1400. For example, if the console 1300 includes more than one cartridge receptacle and pump assembly, steps 1402 to 1410 may be repeated for each cartridge 1308 desired to be used during an ablation treatment. During some treatments, multiple cartridges may be operated to cool multiple ablation probes and cables simultaneously.

[0106] The features, structures, and associated methods of the cooling system of the present disclosure are improvements over existing or conventional systems and methods. In existing systems, tubing or other components are manually loaded into the pumping system, and the correct engagement and position must be verified by the user. Such existing systems are prone to user error and require a great deal of experience from the user to prevent misalignment, leaks, and proper coolant flow. The systems and methods of the present disclosure allow the box to be loaded into the ablation console, and the positioning and engagement of the coolant tubes are automatically performed without significant user intervention. The loading direction of the box is a user-friendly direction that is different from existing systems, and allows for simple setup and use.

[0107] The system and method of the present invention also provide a pressure control system that alleviates known problems in existing systems, such as leaks, insufficient flow, and physical movement of coolant pipes during operation. It is desirable to accurately control the maximum pressure in the coolant flow path. Control of the maximum pressure allows the system to prevent rupture or leakage during operation. Control of the compressive force on the supply pipe by the roller assembly in the system of the present invention allows accurate, effective and variable pressure limitation to be achieved. For example, if a blockage occurs, the maximum pressure generated in the pipe is determined by whether the roller can offset the pressure increased in the pipe due to the blockage. Since the compressive force is achieved using a biasing force such as a spring in the present system, if the blockage causes the pressure to increase to a level that causes the internal fluid force on the supply pipe to exceed the compression force of the roller, the roller will be lifted (forced away from the pipe), thereby allowing the coolant to flow back under the roller, and the roller will not continue to increase the pressure in the system. Alternatively, if the pressure in the pipe does not rise to a level that can overcome the compression force of the roller, the roller will continue to compress the pipe and move the coolant through the system, preventing backflow and increasing the system pressure. Therefore, the system and method of the present invention can be effective pressure control. Existing systems do not allow for such control of the compressive force on the pipe and do not provide this advantage.

[0108] The damping chambers in the box of the present invention are also an improvement over existing systems. As previously described, these chambers can capture and hold air as coolant fills and moves through the coolant flow path. The air trapped in the chambers dampens pressure oscillations in the system and prevents or reduces undesired movement of the coolant tubing and ablation probe during operation. The chambers also provide a more consistent and stable coolant flow than existing systems. In addition, the orientation of the box and the loading direction of the box allow the console of the present invention to have a more compact size and shape than existing systems.

[0109] The example methods and apparatus described herein may be embodied at least in part in the form of computer-implemented processes and apparatus for practicing the processes and / or described functions. The disclosed methods may also be embodied at least in part in the form of a tangible, non-transitory machine-readable storage medium encoded with computer program code. The medium may include, for example, RAM, ROM, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, BD-ROM, hard drive, flash memory, or any other non-transitory machine-readable storage medium, or any combination of these media, wherein when the computer program code is loaded into and executed by a computer, the computer becomes an apparatus for practicing the method. The method may also be implemented at least in part in the form of a computer, into which the computer program code is loaded and / or executed, making the computer an apparatus for practicing the method. When implemented on a general-purpose processor, the computer program code segments configure the processor to create a specific logic circuit. Alternatively, the method may be at least partially contained in a digital signal processor formed by a dedicated integrated circuit for performing the method.

[0110] 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. This 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.

[0111] The following is a list of non-limiting exemplary embodiments disclosed herein:

[0112] Illustrative embodiment 1: A device comprises: a box receiving seat, which is configured to receive a box, the box including a supply tube for supplying a coolant to an ablation probe; a pump head, which is movably positioned near the box receiving seat and is configured to move between a loading position and an operating position, the pump head including one or more rollers, which are configured to engage with the supply tube of the box when the pump head is in the operating position; and an actuator, which is coupled to the pump head and is configured to move the pump head between the loading position and the operating position.

[0113] Illustrative embodiment 2: The device of illustrative embodiment 1, wherein the cassette receptacle is positioned in the front face and is configured to receive the cassette in a loading orientation.

[0114] Illustrative Embodiment 3: The device of Illustrative Embodiment 2, wherein the pump head is configured to move between the loading position and the operating position along an engagement direction, the engagement direction being oriented orthogonal to the loading direction.

[0115] Illustrative Embodiment 4: The device of Illustrative Embodiment 3, wherein the loading direction is a horizontal direction and the engaging direction is a vertical direction.

[0116] Illustrative embodiment 5: A device according to any of the preceding illustrative embodiments, wherein: the actuator includes a spring and a stepper motor; and the spring is configured to apply a predetermined force to the supply tube via the pump head when the stepper motor moves the pump head to the operating position.

[0117] Illustrative Embodiment 6: The device of Illustrative Embodiment 5, wherein the predetermined force can be adjusted using the motor to compress the spring to a corresponding predetermined compression value.

[0118] Illustrative Embodiment 7: The device of any preceding illustrative embodiment, wherein the actuator is indirectly coupled to the pump head via one or more arms.

[0119] Illustrative embodiment 8: The device according to any of the preceding illustrative embodiments further includes a first arm and a second arm, wherein the first arm and the second arm are each connected to the pump head at a first end and are each connected to the rotation axis at a second end, and wherein the actuator is positioned between the first arm and the second arm and coupled to the first arm and the second arm.

[0120] Illustrative Embodiment 9: The device according to any of the preceding illustrative embodiments, further comprising a blocking plate positioned in the cartridge receptacle.

[0121] Illustrative Embodiment 10: The device of Illustrative Embodiment 9, wherein the blocking plate has an upward facing concave shape.

[0122] Illustrative Embodiment 11: The device of any of Illustrative Embodiments 9 or 10, wherein the blocking plate is fixed.

[0123] Illustrative Embodiment 12: The device according to any of the preceding illustrative embodiments, further comprising the cartridge.

[0124] Illustrative Embodiment 13: The device of Illustrative Embodiment 12, wherein the cartridge comprises a housing and the housing defines an opening through which the supply tube extends.

[0125] Illustrative Embodiment 14: The device of Illustrative Embodiment 12, wherein the cassette comprises a chamber positioned within the housing, the chamber being fluidly connected to the supply tube, the chamber being configured to dampen pressure oscillations during operation of the pump head.

[0126] Illustrative Embodiment 15: The device of Illustrative Embodiment 14, wherein the inlet of the chamber is positioned vertically above the outlet of the chamber.

[0127] Illustrative Embodiment 16: The device of any one of Illustrative Embodiments 12 to 15, wherein the cartridge comprises one or more magnets configured to retain the cartridge in a desired position in the cartridge receptacle.

[0128] Illustrative embodiment 17: A device according to any one of illustrative embodiments 12 to 16, wherein a retainer is coupled to the pump and is configured to move with the pump head when the pump head moves from the loading position to the operating position, and the retainer is configured to engage the box and retain the box in the box receiving seat when the pump head is in the operating position.

[0129] Illustrative Embodiment 18: The device of Illustrative Embodiment 17, wherein the housing of the cassette defines an opening to receive the retainer when the pump head is in the operative position.

[0130] Illustrative Embodiment 19: The device of any of Illustrative Embodiments 12 to 18, wherein the supply tube of the cartridge is fluidly connected to a coolant flow path configured to move thermal energy away from the microwave ablation probe.

[0131] Illustrative Embodiment 20: The device of any one of Illustrative Embodiments 12 to 19, wherein the cartridge is part of an ablation probe assembly, the ablation probe assembly comprising a cable and an ablation probe.

[0132] Illustrative Embodiment 21: The device according to any of the preceding illustrative embodiments, further comprising one or more microwave generators configured to deliver microwave signals to the microwave ablation probe.

[0133] Illustrative Embodiment 22: A method of cooling an ablation probe comprises: receiving a cartridge into a cartridge receptacle of an ablation console; moving a pump head into engagement with a supply tube of the cartridge; and operating the pump head to move coolant through the supply tube.

[0134] Illustrative Embodiment 23: The method of Illustrative Embodiment 22, wherein the step of moving the pump into engagement with the supply tube is automatically performed in response to detecting that the cartridge is positioned at a predetermined position in the cartridge receptacle.

[0135] Illustrative Embodiment 24: The method of any of Illustrative Embodiments 22 or 23, wherein the step of moving the pump head includes applying a predetermined force to the supply tube.

[0136] Illustrative Embodiment 25: The method of any one of Illustrative Embodiments 22 to 24, further comprising receiving input of one or more operating parameters from a user, the one or more operating parameters comprising a rotational speed of the pump head and a force applied by the pump head to the supply tube.

[0137] Illustrative Embodiment 26: The method of any one of Illustrative Embodiments 22 to 25, further comprising determining one or more characteristics of the cartridge and setting one or more operating parameters based on the one or more characteristics of the cartridge.

[0138] Illustrative Embodiment 27: The method of any of Exemplary Embodiments 22 to 26, wherein the pump head moves in an engagement direction orthogonal to a loading direction of the cartridge into the cartridge receptacle.

[0139] Illustrative Embodiment 28: The method of any one of Illustrative Embodiments 22 to 27, further comprising retaining the cartridge in the cartridge receptacle when the pump is moved into engagement with the supply tube.

[0140] Illustrative Embodiment 29: The method of any one of Illustrative Embodiments 22 to 28, further comprising adjusting a force applied by the pump to the supply tube.

[0141] Illustrative Embodiment 30: The device or ablation console according to any of the preceding illustrative embodiments, further comprising at least one cartridge sensor positioned proximate to the cartridge receptacle and configured to determine whether a cartridge is present in the cartridge receptacle.

[0142] Illustrative Embodiment 31: The device or ablation console of any of the preceding illustrative embodiments, further comprising a pump head position sensor positioned proximate to the pump head and configured to determine a position of the pump head.

[0143] Illustrative Embodiment 32: The device or ablation console of any of the preceding illustrative embodiments, further comprising a force sensor positioned at or near the pump head and configured to determine a force applied to a supply tube of the cassette.

[0144] Illustrative Embodiment 33: The device or ablation console according to any of the preceding illustrative embodiments, further comprising an actuator position sensor configured to determine a position of a pump assembly or a force applied by the pump assembly.

[0145] Illustrative Embodiment 34: The device or ablation console according to any of the preceding illustrative embodiments, further comprising a reader sensor configured to obtain information about the cartridge.

Claims

1. A device comprising: a cartridge receptacle configured to receive a cartridge including a supply tube for supplying coolant to the ablation probe; a pump head movably positioned adjacent the cartridge receptacle and configured to move between a loading position and an operating position, the pump head comprising one or more rollers configured to engage the supply tube of the cartridge when the pump head is in the operating position; as well as An actuator is coupled to the pump head, the actuator being configured to move the pump head between the loading position and the operating position.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cartridge receptacle is positioned in the front of the device and is configured to receive the cartridge in a loading orientation.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the pump head is configured to move between the loading position and the operating position along an engagement direction, the engagement direction being oriented orthogonal to the loading direction. The device according to claim 3 , wherein the loading direction is a horizontal direction, and the joining direction is a vertical direction.

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The actuator includes a spring and a stepper motor; and The spring is configured to apply a predetermined force to the supply tube via the pump head when the stepper motor moves the pump head to the operating position.

6. The device of claim 5, wherein the predetermined force is adjustable using the motor to compress the spring to a corresponding predetermined compression value.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the actuator is indirectly coupled to the pump head via one or more arms.

8. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a first arm and a second arm, each of the first arm and the second arm being connected to the pump head at a first end and each of the first arm and the second arm being connected to the rotation axis at a second end, and wherein the actuator is positioned between and coupled to the first arm and the second arm.

9. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a blocking plate positioned in the cartridge receptacle.

10. The device of claim 9, wherein the blocking plate comprises an upwardly facing concave shape.

11. The device of claim 9, wherein the blocking plate is fixed.

12. The device of claim 1, further comprising a cartridge.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the cartridge comprises a housing, and the housing defines an opening through which the supply tube extends.

14. The device of claim 12, wherein the cassette comprises a chamber within the housing, the chamber being fluidly connected to the supply tube, the chamber being configured to dampen pressure oscillations during operation of the pump head.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the inlet of the chamber is positioned vertically above the outlet of the chamber.

16. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the cartridge comprises one or more magnets configured to retain the cartridge in a desired position in the cartridge receptacle.

17. A device according to claim 12, wherein a retainer is coupled to the pump and is configured to move with the pump head when the pump head moves from the loading position to the operating position, and the retainer is configured to engage the box and retain the box in the box receiving seat when the pump head is in the operating position.

18. The device of claim 17, wherein the housing of the cassette defines an opening for receiving the retainer when the pump head is in the operative position.

19. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the supply tube of the cartridge is fluidly coupled to a coolant flow path configured to remove thermal energy away from a microwave ablation probe.

20. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the cartridge is part of an ablation probe assembly including a cable and an ablation probe.

21. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising one or more microwave generators configured to deliver microwave signals to the microwave ablation probe.

22. A method for cooling an ablation probe, comprising: receiving the cassette into a cassette receptacle of the ablation console; moving a pump head into engagement with a supply tube of the cassette; as well as The pump head is operated to move coolant through the supply tube.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the step of moving the pump into engagement with the supply tube is performed automatically in response to detecting that the cartridge is located in a predetermined position in the cartridge receptacle.

24. The method of claim 22, wherein the step of moving the pump head comprises applying a predetermined force to the supply tube.

25. The method of claim 22, further comprising receiving input of one or more operating parameters from a user, the one or more operating parameters including a rotational speed of the pump head and a force to be applied by the pump head to the supply tube.

26. The method of claim 22, further comprising determining one or more characteristics of the cartridge and setting one or more operating parameters based on the one or more characteristics of the cartridge.

27. The method of claim 22, wherein the pump head moves in an engagement direction orthogonal to a loading direction of the cartridge into the cartridge receptacle.

28. The method of claim 22, further comprising retaining the cartridge in the cartridge receptacle as the pump is moved into engagement with the supply tube.

29. The method of claim 22, further comprising adjusting a force applied by the pump to the supply tube.

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