Portable ablation devices and related methods of use

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to portable ablation devices and related methods of use. A microwave ablation device includes a movable cart having a support surface and a portable base unit including at least one microwave generator and at least one coolant flow generator. A portable base unit is removably positioned on the support surface. At least one ablation probe assembly is configured to be coupled to the at least one microwave generator and the at least one coolant flow generator.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to portable ablation devices and related methods of use. 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 ablation treatments in which a probe is inserted at or near target tissue in a patient's body. The target tissue is typically abnormal tissue, such as a tumor or other growth. The ablation treatment is performed to destroy the target tissue, thereby reducing the likelihood of further growth or spread of the target tissue in the patient's body. 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] The ablation process can be performed in various scenarios. In some instances, it may be desirable to perform the ablation process in a scenario where an imaging system can be used so as to collect images to confirm the positioning of the probe in the patient's body. The image can be used to help guide and place the probe at or near (one or more) target tissues, and reduce the possibility of damage to blood vessels, tissues, organs or other body structures during the process. Various imaging systems can be used in combination with the ablation process, such as computed tomography (CT) systems, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems, ultrasound systems, X-ray systems, etc. Such an imaging system can be a large fixed system that surrounds one or more parts of the patient during use. It may be challenging to use and / or position the elements of the imaging system and the ablation device very close to each other. Due to the size, shape and / or complexity of the ablation system, it may be difficult to move the ablation system to a position near the imaging system and / or other treatment equipment.

[0005] In addition, existing ablation systems may be large, cumbersome, and difficult to use. The complexity and structure of existing systems may require extensive training and may be highly dependent on the operator's experience level. Existing ablation systems may also have other disadvantages and designs that may cause movement of the ablation probe during treatment. Therefore, there is a need for improved ablation devices and systems that can operate in multiple treatment environments for improved treatment outcomes and patient recovery. 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] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a microwave ablation device is provided. The ablation device may include: a movable cart including a support surface; and a portable base unit including at least one microwave generator and at least one coolant flow generator. The portable base unit may be removably positioned on the support surface. The ablation device may also include at least one ablation probe assembly, which is configured to be coupled to at least one microwave generator and at least one coolant flow generator.

[0008] In one aspect, the mobile cart can include an elongated column configured to position the support surface in an elevated position.

[0009] In another aspect, the mobile cart can include a plurality of wheels mounted to an end of the elongated column opposite the support surface.

[0010] In another aspect, the support surface may include a locator and the portable base unit may include a complementary locator. The locator and the complementary locator are configured to locate the portable base unit in a desired position on the support surface.

[0011] In another aspect, the portable base unit may include a first coolant cartridge port, a first microwave signal port, and a first sensor port.

[0012] In another aspect, the portable base unit may include a second coolant cartridge port, a second microwave signal port, and a second sensor port.

[0013] In another aspect, the first coolant box port, the first microwave signal port, and the first sensor port are each marked with a first indicator, and the second coolant box port, the second microwave signal port, and the second sensor port are each marked with a second indicator. The first indicator and the second indicator are each configured to identify a different ablation probe assembly.

[0014] In another aspect, the first indicator is a first color and the second indicator is a second color.

[0015] In another aspect, the portable base unit may include an adjustable display screen configured to allow user input and display of one or more operating parameters.

[0016] In another aspect, the at least one microwave generator may include a first microwave generator and a second microwave generator, wherein the first microwave generator and the second microwave generator are each operable to independently generate microwave signals for independent ablation probes.

[0017] In another aspect, at least one coolant flow generator can include a pump configured to move coolant through at least one ablation probe assembly.

[0018] In another aspect, the at least one coolant flow generator can include a first coolant flow generator and a second coolant flow generator. The first coolant flow generator and the second coolant flow generator are each operable to independently generate a coolant flow through an independent ablation probe assembly.

[0019] In another aspect, at least one ablation probe assembly may include an ablation probe, a flexible catheter, a coolant cartridge, and a connector.

[0020] In another aspect, the connector can be configured to operably connect the at least one ablation probe assembly to the at least one microwave generator, and the coolant cartridge can be configured to connect the at least one ablation probe assembly to the at least one coolant flow generator.

[0021] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a microwave ablation device is provided, which may include a portable base unit, the portable base unit including a microwave generator port and a coolant port. The microwave ablation device may also include an ablation probe assembly, the ablation probe assembly including a probe, a flexible catheter, a microwave connector, and a coolant box. The microwave connector may be adapted to removably couple the ablation probe assembly to the microwave generator port, and the coolant box may be adapted to removably couple the ablation probe assembly to the coolant port.

[0022] In one aspect, the microwave generator port and the coolant port each include a colored light configured to identify the microwave connector and the coolant cartridge.

[0023] In another aspect, the microwave generator port is operably coupled to a microwave generator in the portable base unit, and the microwave generator is configured to deliver a microwave signal to the probe.

[0024] In another aspect, the coolant port may include a peristaltic pump configured to move coolant through the flexible conduit to the probe.

[0025] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a microwave ablation device may include a portable base unit, the portable base unit including a shell defining an internal volume. The ablation device may also include: at least one microwave generator positioned in the shell, the at least one microwave generator configured to deliver a microwave signal to the ablation probe; and at least one coolant flow generator positioned in the shell, the at least one coolant flow generator configured to move a coolant through a catheter to the ablation probe.

[0026] In one aspect, the at least one microwave generator may include a first microwave generator and a second microwave generator.

[0027] 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

[0028] 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.

[0029] Figure 1 is an isometric view of an example microwave ablation device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 2 is an illustration of an example microwave ablation device of the present disclosure positioned in a treatment environment proximate to an imaging system.

[0031] Figure 3 is a block diagram of an example base unit according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 An isometric view of a base unit and ablation probe assembly of an example microwave ablation device.

[0033] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 An isometric view of an example microwave ablation device cart.

[0034] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of the following description, it should be understood that the embodiments described below can take alternative variations and embodiments. It should also be understood that the specific products, components and / or processes described herein are exemplary and should not be considered restrictive. In the specification, relative terms such as "lower", "upper", "horizontal", "vertical", "above", "below", "up", "down", "top" and "bottom" and their derivatives (e.g., "horizontally", "downwardly", "upwardly", etc.) should be interpreted as referring to the orientation as described subsequently or as shown in the accompanying drawings under discussion. These relative terms are for ease of description, and do not require the device to be constructed or operated in a specific orientation. Terms such as "connection" and "interconnection" about attachment, coupling, etc. refer to the relationship in which the structures are fixed or attached to each other directly or indirectly through an intermediate structure, and both removable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless otherwise explicitly described.

[0036] 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.

[0037] In the present disclosure, the singular forms "one", "an" and "the" include plural references, and references to specific numerical values ​​include at least the specific 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 specific value forms another embodiment. As used herein, "about X" (wherein X is a numerical value) preferably refers to ±10% of the recorded value, including the end value. For example, the phrase "about 8" preferably refers to a value of 7.2 to 8.8, including 7.2 and 8.8. When present, all ranges are inclusive and combinable. For example, when recording the range of "1 to 5", the recorded range should be interpreted as including the range "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 provided affirmatively, such a list can be interpreted as meaning that any alternative in the alternative can be excluded, such as by a negative limitation in a 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 that are negatively excluded; thus, the recited "1 to 5" may be interpreted as "1 and 3-5, but not 2," or simply "wherein 2 is not included." It is intended that any component, element, attribute, or step that is affirmatively recited herein may be explicitly excluded in a claim, regardless of whether such component, element, attribute, or step is listed as an alternative or whether it is recited in isolation.

[0038] In various embodiments, the present disclosure provides a microwave ablation device and related methods of use. The microwave ablation device of the present disclosure may include a microwave generator that is operable to deliver a microwave signal to an antenna in an ablation probe. The antenna may deliver microwave energy to a target tissue in a patient's body so as to increase the temperature of the target tissue to a temperature that destroys the target tissue. The target tissue may be an abnormal tissue, such as a tumor or other undesirable growth in a patient's body. The temperature of the probe and / or surrounding tissue may be raised to a temperature exceeding 55°C, and may reach a temperature greater than 100°C. The heat energy may be transferred to other elements of the ablation probe assembly, such as along the probe away from the distal end, along a cable to a handle or elsewhere. This transfer of heat energy may be undesirable because it may cause damage to the patient's healthy tissue and / or may be harmful to the operator of the ablation equipment.

[0039] The microwave ablation device of the present disclosure includes a cooling system for actively cooling an ablation probe assembly. The microwave ablation probe assembly may include a conduit through which a coolant may be moved toward the distal end of the ablation probe. Various suitable coolants may be used, such as saline solution. The saline solution or other coolant may be returned from the ablation probe to a container in a coolant loop for further use and / or circulation through a cable and / or ablation probe. A portion of the saline solution or other coolant may be distributed at the ablation site after it is delivered to the ablation probe via the cooling system.

[0040] The microwave ablation device of the present disclosure is an improvement over existing microwave ablation devices because the microwave generator and the cooling system are integrated into a portable base unit. The base unit of the microwave ablation device of the present disclosure can be easily moved within a treatment environment and can be placed on a desktop, a laboratory cart, or other surface. The microwave ablation device of the present disclosure may also include a portable, movable cart on which the base unit may be positioned and moved within the treatment environment. As can be appreciated, the microwave ablation device of the present disclosure may be easily moved very close to an imaging system in which a patient may be positioned during ablation treatment. Existing systems are not portable and / or may include multiple different components that may be cumbersome to use and manipulate in a treatment scenario.

[0041] The microwave ablation device of the present disclosure is also easier to set up, use, and remove than existing ablation systems. The microwave ablation device of the present disclosure has simple connectors and ports, which allow the various components to be connected without the need for extensive training. The microwave ablation device is not only easier to use, but also reduces the possibility of errors that may otherwise occur with existing systems during setup and treatment. The various elements of the microwave ablation device of the present disclosure can be color coded or otherwise marked with identification information to allow the user to intuitively set up and use the microwave ablation device.

[0042] exist Figure 1 An example microwave ablation device 100 is shown in FIG. The microwave ablation device 100 may include a portable base unit 102, a cart 104, and an ablation probe assembly 106. The base unit 102 may be positioned on the cart 104. As will be further described, the base unit 102 may include a microwave generator and a coolant flow generator (see Figure 3 ). In some embodiments, the base unit 102 may have the structure and functionality described in U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 477,347, filed on the same date as the present application, to Varian Medical Systems, Inc., entitled "CONSOLEARCHITECTURE FOR MICROWAVE ABLATION UNIT". 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 an ablation treatment by sending a microwave signal to an antenna in the ablation probe 110 via the cable 116. The antenna may deliver microwave energy to a target tissue at or near the ablation probe 110. The microwave energy may induce an elevated temperature at the target tissue to destroy the target tissue.

[0043] During an ablation treatment, the ablation device 100 may also use a coolant flow generator to deliver coolant from a coolant container 112 to the probe 110. A coolant cartridge 114 may be inserted into the front face of the base unit 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 heat energy from the cable and / or the probe 110, thereby effectively cooling portions of the probe 110 and / or the cable.

[0044] like Figure 2As can be seen in the figure, the base unit 102 and the cart 104 can be easily moved in a hospital, a treatment center or other environment. The cart 104 may include a support surface such as a platform 108, which is positioned at 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 height of the patient 204, for example. In this example, the patient 204 is positioned on a bed 206 of the imaging system 202. The imaging system 202 can be a CT scanner, an MRI machine, an X-ray device, or other imaging equipment. In the case where the base unit 102 is positioned at a height approximately equal to the height of the bed 206 of the imaging system 202, ablation treatment can be performed more easily. In addition, the base unit 102 can be moved to the side of the bed 206, so that the length of the cable 116 that may be required to deliver microwave signals and / or coolants from the base unit to the probe 110 can be reduced compared to an ablation system that is more cumbersome or may need to be located at other locations in the treatment environment.

[0045] Now go to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the base unit 102 is shown removed from the cart 104. The base unit 102 is portable in that it can be easily separated from the cart 104 without tools and by a single operator. The ablation probe assembly 106 can be removed from the base unit 102, and the display 302 can be folded and laid flat on the top surface of the base unit 102 so that the operator can easily pick up the base unit 102 and move it to a desired location or for storage. The display 302 can be coupled to the base unit 102 via a hinge 416. The hinge 416 can allow the display 302 to be tilted, rotated, or otherwise adjusted to a desired position for viewing during treatment. The hinge 416 can also allow the display 302 to be laid flat in a position substantially parallel to the top surface of the base unit 102 for storage, or the hinge 416 can also allow the display 302 to be laid flat in a position substantially parallel to the top surface of the base unit 102 during transportation.

[0046] The base unit 102 may include a housing 304 positioned around the internal components of the base unit 102. The housing 304 may include one or more walls defining an internal volume in which the internal components are located. Figure 3As shown in FIG. 1 , the base unit 102 may include a control unit 318, a first microwave generator 306, a second microwave generator 308, a first coolant flow generator 310, a second coolant flow generator 312, a first microwave port 314, a second microwave port 316, a first sensor port 322, and a second sensor port 320. Each of the elements of the base unit 102 may be operably connected to the control unit 318 via a suitable wired or wireless connection. The control unit 318 may be a suitable integrated circuit, a programmable logic controller (PLC), a computing device, etc., which may include a processor and a memory to facilitate and / or control the functions of the base unit 102. The control unit 318 may also be operably connected to the display 302 to allow input from a user and display one or more operating parameters of the base unit 102.

[0047] The first microwave generator 306 and the second microwave generator 308 can be similarly configured to deliver microwave signals to the ablation probe assembly 106 via the first microwave port 314 and the second microwave port 316, respectively. The first microwave generator 306 and the second microwave generator 308 can include suitable power supplies to provide variable microwave signals with different characteristics so as to heat the target tissue to a predetermined temperature during the ablation treatment. The first microwave generator 306 and the second microwave generator 308 can be independently controllable to allow each generator to generate independent and separate microwave signals. This can allow the operator to heat the corresponding ablation probe differently or identically as needed during the ablation treatment.

[0048] The first microwave port 314 and the second microwave port 316 can be similarly configured and can be electrical connectors to allow the mating connector to electrically couple the ablation probe assembly 106 to the corresponding microwave generator. In some examples, the first microwave port 314 can include a first mark and the second microwave port 316 can include a second mark. The first mark and the second mark can be different to allow the user to distinguish between the ports. The first mark and the second mark can include various suitable identifiers, such as colors, symbols, letters, numbers, shapes, colored lights or other identifiers. In some examples, the first mark and the second mark can include multiple identifiers from a previous identifier list. The first mark and the second mark can be used to guide the operator in the setting and use of the base unit 102 to ensure that the appropriate connection is made by the operator. In some embodiments, the ablation probe assembly 106 can have the structure and function described in U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 477,374 of Varian Medical Systems, Inc., entitled "MICROWAVE ABLATION PROBE ASSEMBLY AND CABLE STRUCTURE" filed on the same date as this application. The content of this application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0049] First microwave port 314 and second microwave port 316 may be positioned in front face 324 of housing 304. This may allow a user to easily connect ablation probe assembly 106 to first microwave port 314 and / or second microwave port 316. In other examples, first microwave port 314 and second microwave port 316 may be positioned at other locations in housing 304, such as in a side wall or top surface of housing 304. Although Figure 3 and Figure 4 The example base unit 102 shown in includes two microwave generators and two microwave ports, but it should be appreciated that in some examples one generator and port may be included, and in other examples more than two generators and ports may be included.

[0050] As further shown in this example, the base unit 102 may include a first sensor port 322 and a second sensor port 320 positioned on a front face 324. Such positioning may allow an operator to easily connect one or more sensors to the base unit 102. Figure 4 As shown in , the ablation probe assembly 106 may include a sensor probe 406. The sensor probe 406 can be positioned at or near target tissue in a patient's body during an ablation treatment to monitor and / or determine one or more parameters. For example, the sensor probe 406 may include one or more measurement points that can measure the patient's impedance, temperature, humidity, density, or other characteristics. The measurement information can be transmitted to the base unit 102 via a sensor cable 408. The sensor cable 408 can terminate at a sensor connector 404, which can be connected to the base unit 102 at a first sensor port 322 and / or a second sensor port 320. The information can be sent to the control unit 318 to be stored and / or displayed on the display 302. Although Figure 4 102 includes two sensor ports 322, 320, but it should be appreciated that in other examples, the base unit 102 may include less than two sensor ports or more than two sensor ports. The sensor cable 408 may be provided with or separate from the ablation probe assembly 106 and / or the cable 116. In some examples, the previously described sensors may be incorporated into or positioned on the probe 110. In such examples, the sensor may transmit signals from the probe 110 to the base unit 102 via the sensor cable 408 coupled to the sensor ports 320, 322. In other examples, signals and / or information from the sensors may be transmitted via the cable 116.

[0051] The base unit 102 may also include a first coolant flow generator 310 and a second coolant flow generator 312. The first coolant flow generator 310 and the second coolant flow generator 312 may be configured similarly to each other. The first coolant flow generator 310 and the second coolant flow generator 312 may be configured to move coolant through the ablation probe assembly 106 to dissipate or absorb thermal energy and prevent elements of the ablation probe assembly 106 from being heated to undesirable levels. The first coolant flow generator 310 and the second coolant flow generator 312 may each include a separate and independent pump that may be individually operated by the control unit 318. Various suitable pumps may be used, such as a peristaltic pump.

[0052] The first coolant flow generator 310 and the second coolant flow generator 312 can each include a coolant port to allow one or more coolant boxes 114 to be received in the front face 324 of the base unit 102. In other examples, the coolant port can be positioned in other areas of the base unit, such as in the side wall of the housing 304. The coolant box 114 can include a bracket and a tube that allows the pump to interact with the coolant box 114 to move the coolant (e.g., saline) from the coolant container 112 to the cable 116 and / or toward the probe 110. The coolant container 112 can be supported on a hanger 410. The hanger 410 can be a vertical hook or rod that hangs the coolant container 112 in a position vertically above the coolant port of the base unit 102. In this example, the hanger 410 is connected to the side wall of the housing 304. In other examples, the hanger 410 can be connected to the rear wall or top wall of the housing 304. In another example, the hanger 410 may be positioned downward to suspend the coolant container 112 in a position vertically below the base unit 102 .

[0053] In the example shown, the base unit 102 includes two coolant flow generators. In other examples, the base unit 102 may include one coolant flow generator. In still other examples, the base unit 102 may include more than two coolant flow generators. Figure 4 The example shown in also shows a single ablation probe assembly 106. However, it should be appreciated that other ablation systems may include more than one ablation probe assembly 106. The number of ablation probe assemblies may correspond to the number of microwave generators, microwave ports, sensor ports, and / or coolant flow generators. In some embodiments, the coolant flow generators 310, 312 may have the structure and function described in U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 477,328, filed on the same date as the present application, to Varian Medical Systems, Inc., entitled "PUMPAND CASSETTE SYSTEM FOR USE IN MICROWAVE ABLATION". The contents of the application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0054] Now go to Figure 5 , an example cart 104 is shown. In this example, the cart 104 includes a support surface 108, a support post 502, and a base 508. The support post 502 is positioned between the support surface 108 and the base 508 to position the support surface 108 at a desired height above the floor. The support post 502 can be a suitable column, stake, or other member for supporting the base unit 102. In other examples, the support post 502 can be adjustable to allow a user to raise or lower the height of the support surface 108 as desired.

[0055] The base 508 is positioned at or near the floor to support the support column in a stable manner. In this example, the base includes a plate 512 and wheels 510. The wheels 510 can be positioned at various locations on the plate 512 to allow the cart 104 to be easily moved in the treatment environment as needed. In this example, the base 508 includes four wheels 510, one of which is positioned at each corner of the base 508. In other examples, the base 508 can have other shapes or configurations.

[0056] The cart 104 may also include one or more storage boxes 506. In this example, two storage boxes are positioned on opposite sides of the pillar 502. The storage boxes may be configured as wire baskets or may have other shapes or configurations. The storage boxes 506 may be used to store records, operating manuals, parts, or other items that may be needed during the setup, use, or storage of the ablation system 100.

[0057] The support surface 108 is positioned at the top of the pillar 502. The support surface 108 is configured to support and stably maintain the base unit 102 in a desired position. The support surface 108 can have a complementary shape corresponding to the shape of the base unit 102. In this example, the support surface is curved to complement the curved shape of the housing 304 of the base unit 102. In other examples, the support surface can be flat or have other shapes. In this example, the support surface 108 has a smooth surface with rounded edges. Such a configuration can allow an operator to easily clean and / or disinfect the surface of the cart 104 before or after the treatment process. In addition, the support surface 108 can have an opening. The opening can reduce the weight of the cart 104 and also facilitate easy maintenance and cleaning of the support surface 108. The support surface 108 and the opening can be configured to create a handle that can be grasped or manipulated by a user to facilitate movement and positioning of the cart 104.

[0058] like Figure 5As further shown in FIG. 1 , the support surface 108 may include a locator 504. In this example, the locator 504 is a cylindrical pin that protrudes upward away from the top of the support surface 108. The base unit 102 may include an opening having a shape complementary to the locator 504. The locator 504 may be received in the opening in the base unit 102. In this way, the base unit 102 is positioned at a desired position on the support surface 108. In other examples, the locator 504 may be shaped or configured differently from that shown. In other examples, the support surface 108 may be contoured to allow the base unit to be positioned thereon with a desired location. In other examples, the support surface 108 may include more than one locator, or the locator provided by the support surface 108 may have other shapes or sizes. In these or other examples, the complementary openings in the locator 504 and the base unit 102 may removably fix, lock and / or fasten the base unit 102 to the support surface 108. In one example, the retainer 504 can include a threaded portion that can be secured to a complementary female threaded portion (e.g., a nut) in the support surface 108. In other examples, the retainer 504 can include a clasp, latch, or other feature to removably connect the base unit 102 to the cart 104.

[0059] The ablation device of the present disclosure can be used to perform various treatments and methods. The ablation device of the present disclosure is an improvement over existing systems and methods. For example, the ablation device of the present disclosure can be positioned closer to the patient during treatment, particularly when the patient is positioned in an imaging system as described above.

[0060] In addition, the ablation device of the present disclosure is easier to set up and use than existing ablation systems. In one example, the ablation device of the present disclosure can be used to set up and perform an ablation procedure. In such a method, the base unit can be positioned on a cart and moved near the imaging system and the patient. The ablation probe can be connected to the base unit by connecting a microwave connector to a microwave port in the base unit. The coolant box can be connected to the coolant flow generator by inserting the coolant box into the coolant port of the base unit. The sensor probe can be connected to the base unit by inserting the sensor connector into the sensor port in the base unit.

[0061] The above connections may be performed in response to receiving setup instructions, which may be displayed on a display of the base unit. Markings or indicators on the microwave ports, coolant ports, and / or sensor ports may indicate to the operator the order of connections and / or specific corresponding connectors. For example, the ports and connectors may have corresponding colors, lighting, symbols, etc. that indicate to the user the correct location and / or order of connections.

[0062] The ablation probe and the sensor probe can be positioned at or near target tissue in the patient's body. The imaging system can capture images of the target tissue and / or body structures that can be located at or around the target tissue. The operator can use such images to position the ablation probe and / or the sensor probe at a desired location at or near the target tissue.

[0063] Once in place, the base unit can be operated to deliver a microwave signal to the ablation probe. The coolant flow generator can start the coolant flow and deliver the coolant flow to the ablation probe assembly to dissipate (or absorb) the heat energy from part of the ablation probe assembly. One or more ablation cycles can be performed to destroy the target tissue. When such ablation is occurring, the sensor probe can collect measurement data characterizing the operating parameters of the ablation probe device and / or the conditions at or near the target tissue. In some instances, the temperature of the ablation probe and the surrounding tissue is monitored. The measurement data can be used to actively control the microwave signal and the coolant flow to achieve the desired temperature and duration at the target tissue.

[0064] Although ablation device 100 may be used to perform the foregoing methods, other variations of ablation device 100 as well as other ablation probe devices or systems may be used.

[0065] The example methods and devices described herein may be embodied at least in part in the form of computer-implemented processes and devices for practicing those processes and / or the functions described. The disclosed method may also be embodied at least in part in the form of a tangible, non-transient machine-readable storage medium encoded with a computer program code. The medium may include, for example, a RAM, a ROM, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, a BD-ROM, a hard drive, a flash memory, or any other non-transient machine-readable storage medium, or any combination of these media, wherein when the computer program code is loaded into a computer and executed by the computer, the computer becomes a device for practicing the method. The method may also be embodied at least in part in the form of a computer, into which the computer program code is loaded and / or executed, so that the computer becomes a device for practicing the method. When implemented on a general-purpose processor, the computer program code segment configures the processor to create a specific logic circuit. Alternatively, the method may be embodied at least in part in a digital signal processor formed by a dedicated integrated circuit for executing the method.

[0066] The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for the purpose of illustration and description. The foregoing description of the embodiments 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 the selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. It can also be changed in many ways. Such changes 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.

[0067] The following is a list of illustrative embodiments disclosed herein:

[0068] Illustrative embodiment 1: A microwave ablation device comprises: a movable cart comprising a support surface; a portable base unit comprising at least one microwave generator and at least one coolant flow generator, the portable base unit being removably positionable on the support surface; and at least one ablation probe assembly configured to be coupled to the at least one microwave generator and the at least one coolant flow generator.

[0069] Illustrative embodiment 2: The microwave ablation device according to illustrative embodiment 1, wherein the movable cart includes an elongated column configured to position the support surface in an elevated position.

[0070] Illustrative embodiment 3: The microwave ablation device according to illustrative embodiment 2, wherein the movable cart includes a plurality of wheels mounted to an end of the elongated column opposite the support surface.

[0071] Illustrative embodiment 4: A microwave ablation device according to any of the preceding illustrative embodiments, wherein the support surface includes a locator and the portable base unit includes a complementary locator, and the locator and the complementary locator are configured to position the portable base unit in a desired position on the support surface.

[0072] Illustrative Embodiment 5: The microwave ablation device according to any one of the preceding illustrative embodiments, wherein the portable base unit comprises a first coolant cartridge port, a first microwave signal port, and a first sensor port.

[0073] Illustrative Embodiment 6: The microwave ablation device according to Illustrative Embodiment 5, wherein the portable base unit comprises a second coolant cartridge port, a second microwave signal port, and a second sensor port.

[0074] Illustrative embodiment 7: A microwave ablation device according to illustrative embodiment 6, wherein the first coolant box port, the first microwave signal port and the first sensor port are each marked with a first indicator, and the second coolant box port, the second microwave signal port and the second sensor port are each marked with a second indicator, and the first indicator and the second indicator are each configured to identify different ablation probe components.

[0075] Illustrative Embodiment 8: The microwave ablation device according to Illustrative Embodiment 7, wherein the first indicator is a first color and the second indicator is a second color.

[0076] Illustrative Embodiment 9: The microwave ablation device according to any of the preceding illustrative embodiments, wherein the portable base unit includes an adjustable display screen configured to allow user input and display of one or more operating parameters.

[0077] Illustrative embodiment 10: A microwave ablation device according to any one of the aforementioned illustrative embodiments, wherein the at least one microwave generator includes a first microwave generator and a second microwave generator, each of the first microwave generator and the second microwave generator being operable to independently generate a microwave signal for an independent ablation probe.

[0078] Illustrative Embodiment 11: The microwave ablation apparatus according to any of the preceding illustrative embodiments, wherein the at least one coolant flow generator comprises a pump configured to move coolant through the at least one ablation probe assembly.

[0079] Illustrative embodiment 12: A microwave ablation device according to any one of the aforementioned illustrative embodiments, wherein the at least one coolant flow generator includes a first coolant flow generator and a second coolant flow generator, and the first coolant flow generator and the second coolant flow generator are each operable to independently generate a coolant flow through an independent ablation probe assembly.

[0080] Illustrative Embodiment 13: The microwave ablation device according to any one of the preceding illustrative embodiments, wherein the at least one ablation probe assembly comprises an ablation probe, a flexible catheter, a coolant box, and a connector.

[0081] Illustrative embodiment 14: A microwave ablation device according to illustrative embodiment 13, wherein the connector is configured to connect the at least one ablation probe assembly to the at least one microwave generator, and the coolant box is configured to connect the at least one ablation probe assembly to the at least one coolant flow generator.

[0082] Illustrative embodiment 15: A microwave ablation device comprises: a portable base unit, which includes a microwave generator port and a coolant port; and an ablation probe assembly, which includes a probe, a flexible catheter, a microwave connector and a coolant box, wherein the microwave connector is suitable for removably coupling the ablation probe assembly to the microwave generator port, and the coolant box is suitable for removably coupling the ablation probe assembly to the coolant port.

[0083] Illustrative Embodiment 16: The microwave ablation device according to Illustrative Embodiment 15, wherein the microwave generator port and the coolant port each include a colored light configured to identify the microwave connector and the coolant cartridge.

[0084] Illustrative Embodiment 17: The microwave ablation device according to any one of Illustrative Embodiments 15 or 16, wherein the microwave generator port is coupled to a microwave generator in the portable base unit, the microwave generator being configured to deliver a microwave signal to the probe.

[0085] Illustrative Embodiment 18: The microwave ablation device according to any one of exemplary embodiments 15 to 17, wherein the coolant port comprises a peristaltic pump configured to move the coolant through the flexible catheter to the probe.

[0086] Illustrative embodiment 19: A microwave ablation device comprises: a portable base unit including a shell defining an internal volume; at least one microwave generator positioned in the shell, the at least one microwave generator being configured to deliver a microwave signal to an ablation probe; and at least one coolant flow generator positioned in the shell, the at least one coolant flow generator being configured to move a coolant through a catheter to the ablation probe.

[0087] Illustrative embodiment 20: The microwave ablation device according to illustrative embodiment 19, wherein the at least one microwave generator includes a first microwave generator and a second microwave generator, and the at least one coolant flow generator includes a first coolant flow generator and a second coolant flow generator.

Claims

1. A microwave ablation device, comprising: a movable cart comprising a support surface; a portable base unit comprising at least one microwave generator and at least one coolant flow generator, said portable base unit being removably positionable on said support surface; as well as At least one ablation probe head assembly is configured to be coupled to the at least one microwave generator and the at least one coolant flow generator. 2 . The microwave ablation apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the movable cart comprises an elongated column configured to position the support surface in an elevated position.

3. The microwave ablation device of claim 2, wherein the movable cart includes a plurality of wheels mounted to an end of the elongated column opposite the support surface.

4. The microwave ablation device of claim 1, wherein the support surface includes a locator and the portable base unit includes a complementary locator, the locator and the complementary locator being configured to position the portable base unit in a desired position on the support surface. 5 . The microwave ablation device of claim 1 , wherein the portable base unit comprises a first coolant cartridge port, a first microwave signal port, and a first sensor port. 6 . The microwave ablation device of claim 5 , wherein the portable base unit comprises a second coolant cartridge port, a second microwave signal port, and a second sensor port.

7. A microwave ablation device according to claim 6, wherein the first coolant box port, the first microwave signal port and the first sensor port are each marked with a first indicator, and the second coolant box port, the second microwave signal port and the second sensor port are each marked with a second indicator, and the first indicator and the second indicator are each configured to identify different ablation probe components.

8. The microwave ablation device of claim 6, wherein the first indicator is a first color and the second indicator is a second color.

9. The microwave ablation device of claim 1, wherein the portable base unit includes an adjustable display screen configured to allow user input and display of one or more operating parameters.

10. The microwave ablation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one microwave generator comprises a first microwave generator and a second microwave generator, each of the first microwave generator and the second microwave generator being operable to independently generate a microwave signal for an independent ablation probe.

11. The microwave ablation apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one coolant flow generator comprises a pump configured to move coolant through the at least one ablation probe assembly.

12. The microwave ablation device of claim 1, wherein the at least one coolant flow generator comprises a first coolant flow generator and a second coolant flow generator, each of the first coolant flow generator and the second coolant flow generator being operable to independently generate a coolant flow through an independent ablation probe assembly.

13. The microwave ablation device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one ablation probe assembly comprises an ablation probe, a flexible catheter, a coolant box, and a connector.

14. The microwave ablation device of claim 13, wherein the connector is configured to connect the at least one ablation probe assembly to the at least one microwave generator, and the coolant box is configured to connect the at least one ablation probe assembly to the at least one coolant flow generator.

15. A microwave ablation device, comprising: a portable base unit including a microwave generator port and a coolant port; as well as An ablation probe assembly includes a probe, a flexible catheter, a microwave connector and a coolant box, wherein the microwave connector is suitable for removably coupling the ablation probe assembly to the microwave generator port, and the coolant box is suitable for removably coupling the ablation probe assembly to the coolant port.

16. The microwave ablation device of claim 15, wherein the microwave generator port and the coolant port each include a colored light configured to identify the microwave connector and the coolant cartridge.

17. The microwave ablation apparatus of claim 15, wherein the microwave generator port is coupled to a microwave generator in the portable base unit, the microwave generator being configured to deliver a microwave signal to the probe.

18. The microwave ablation apparatus of claim 15, wherein the coolant port comprises a peristaltic pump configured to move coolant through the flexible conduit to the probe.

19. A microwave ablation device, comprising: a portable base unit comprising a housing defining an interior volume; at least one microwave generator positioned in the housing, the at least one microwave generator configured to deliver a microwave signal to the ablation probe; as well as At least one coolant flow generator is positioned in the housing, the at least one coolant flow generator being configured to move coolant through a catheter to the ablation probe. 20 . The microwave ablation apparatus of claim 19 , wherein the at least one microwave generator comprises a first microwave generator and a second microwave generator, and the at least one coolant flow generator comprises a first coolant flow generator and a second coolant flow generator.

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