Ablation probe handle

Abstract

An ablation probe (112; 212) for use with an ablation probe handle (114; 214) adapted for use with an internal anatomical access system (102), the ablation probe handle (114; 214) comprises: a housing (126; 216) adapted to be grasped by a user; the lead cable connection interface (128; 228) adapted for connection to a guide cable (116; 116 ') for supplying a microwave source, the guide cable connection interface being adapted for connection to a guide cable (116; 216) for guiding the cable connection interface (128; 228) defining a guide cable connection axis (X); an ablation probe mount (134), the ablation probe mount adapted to mount a catheter (122; 222) is mounted in the housing (126; 226); the working channel connection interface (130; 230) adapted to connect to a working channel (110; 230) of the internal anatomical access system (102), the working channel connection interface being adapted to connect to the working channel (110; 210) of the ablation probe, wherein a catheter (122; 222) is arranged to be connected to the handle (114; 214) from the housing (126; 226) along the working channel (110; 210), the working channel connection interface (130; 230) defines a working channel connection axis (Y), and wherein the guide cable and the working channel connection axis are parallel and offset relative to each other, and a connection interface (128; 228; 228; 130; 230) is arranged such that when the working channel (110; 210) and a guide cable (116; 216) is connected to the handle (114; 214), the working channel (110; 210) is connected to the guide cable (116; 216) in the same direction from the housing (126; 226). A handle system and an ablation system are also disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to an ablation probe handle. Specifically, it is a handle for an ablation probe, which is adapted to be used with an internal anatomical access device such as an endoscope. The ablation probe can be a microwave ablation probe. Background Art

[0002] Thermal ablation can be used to destroy tissue growths in the body that may be malignant. Current ablation systems use applicators that deliver radiofrequency (RF) energy or more specifically microwave energy to the tissue surrounding the applicator tip. This causes local heating and destruction of malignant cells.

[0003] Microwave ablation systems typically include a microwave ablation probe for delivering microwave ablation therapy to tissue. The microwave ablation probe can be used endoscopically so that it can be used to reach inaccessible ablation sites within the body (such as within the lungs, etc.). The ablation probe can thus have a long catheter that contains a feed cable that supplies a microwave signal to an applicator or antenna at the distal end of the ablation probe. The catheter is inserted through the working channel of an endoscope or similar internal anatomical access device and is then carefully positioned at the ablation site before the ablation treatment is activated.

[0004] At the proximal end of the catheter, a handle is provided that allows the user to manipulate the ablation probe. The handle provides an interface where the working channel of the endoscope can be connected and the ablation probe is inserted through the working channel of the endoscope. The handle should allow the user to precisely control the position of the distal tip of the working channel through which the ablation probe is inserted so that it can be positioned to deliver ablation at the desired location. The handle also serves as an interface point where the catheter is connected to a microwave signal generator and / or a coolant supply device. For example, the handle can be connected to an ablation console using a guide cable, where a microwave generator and a coolant pump are located. The coolant pump pumps coolant to and from the distal tip of the probe.

[0005] Known handles for ablation probes have many drawbacks. The guide cables used to connect between the handle and the ablation console are typically thick and heavy. By connecting the guide cable to the handle, the handle generally becomes bulky and difficult to precisely control. The guide cable can have a levering effect on the handle and the connection to the working channel. This can make it difficult to maintain the position of the ablation probe when positioning it at the desired ablation site and difficult to keep it stationary during ablation. These difficulties may result in the need for splints to support the handle and the guide cable during use, which is time-consuming and may still be unstable.

[0006] It is also important that the handle has a natural and comfortable grip and allows easy access to its controls during use. The handle should be easy to use by a pulmonologist or thoracic surgeon, who are often trained to manipulate the scope with their non-dominant hand and the primary tool (e.g., ablation probe) with their dominant hand. Without a handle with a comfortable and natural grip, it may be difficult to accurately position the working channel and ablation probe at the desired ablation site and keep the working channel and ablation probe in place during ablation therapy.

[0007] It is desirable that the ablation probe handle can be used with many different types of internal anatomical delivery systems and safely integrate electrical and cooling connections without negatively affecting the ablation procedure. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The present application aims to provide an ablation probe handle that overcomes one or more of the above design challenges.

[0009] In a first aspect, the present application provides an ablation probe handle for use with an ablation probe, the ablation probe being adapted to be used with an internal anatomical access system, the ablation probe handle comprising any one or more of the following features:

[0010] A housing adapted to be grasped by a user;

[0011] A guide cable connection interface adapted to connect to a guide cable for supplying a microwave source, the guide cable connection interface defining a guide cable connection axis;

[0012] An ablation probe mount adapted to mount the catheter of the ablation probe within the housing; and

[0013] A working channel connection interface adapted to connect to a working channel of the internal anatomical access system, wherein the catheter of the ablation probe is arranged to extend from the housing along the working channel when the working channel is connected to the handle, the working channel connection interface defining a working channel connection axis,

[0014] wherein the guide cable and the working channel connection axes are parallel and offset relative to each other, and

[0015] wherein the connection interfaces are arranged such that when the working channel and the guide cable are connected to the handle, the working channel extends from the housing in the same direction as the guide cable relative to the housing.

[0016] By arranging the connection interfaces and their corresponding connection axes in this way, the weight distribution of the guiding cable and the handle can be improved and configured to reduce the load on the working channel connection. The separation between the connection axes can create a pivot point about which the handle can be more easily maneuvered and the ablation probe can be more easily and precisely positioned at the ablation site.

[0017] The ablation probe mount can be adapted to fix the catheter of the ablation probe within the housing such that an exposed portion of the length of the catheter forms outside the housing. The exposed portion can be proximal along the length of the catheter relative to the point at which the catheter extends from the working channel connection interface. By adjusting the length of the exposed portion outside the housing, the catheter can be moved along the working channel.

[0018] The ablation probe mount can be adapted to:

[0019] connect to the proximal end of the catheter of the ablation probe such that the proximal end is fixed relative to the housing; and

[0020] guide the path of the catheter such that an exposed portion of the length of the catheter forms outside the housing and the sliding portion of the catheter is arranged to pass through the housing and slide relative to the housing before passing through the working channel.

[0021] The exposed portion can be a loop of the catheter outside the housing, and the loop of the catheter outside the housing can be moved into and out of the housing to adjust the position of the ablation probe along the working channel. The exposed portion of the catheter can provide tactile feedback to the user to control the position of the ablation probe along the working channel.

[0022] The housing can include a first part and a second part. The guiding cable connection interface can be provided on (or at) the first part of the housing. The ablation probe mount can be adapted to fix the catheter of the ablation probe relative to the first part of the housing (e.g., it connects to the guiding cable within the first part of the housing) and fix the catheter slidably relative to the second part of the housing. The working channel connection interface can be provided on (or at) the second part of the housing. The first part of the housing can be slidable relative to the second part of the housing, whereby the catheter is slidable along the length of the working channel. This can allow the user to move the ablation probe along the length of the working channel by moving the first part and the second part of the housing relative to each other.

[0023] The handle can include a catheter locking mechanism. The catheter locking mechanism can move between an unlocked state in which the catheter is slidable relative to the housing and a locked state in which the catheter is not slidable relative to the housing. This can allow the user to fix the position of the ablation probe relative to the handle when the ablation probe is in the desired position for ablation.

[0024] The handle may include a sliding mechanism. The sliding mechanism may include a sliding member on which the working channel connection interface is located. The sliding member may slide relative to the housing to allow independent movement of the working channel relative to the catheter.

[0025] The sliding mechanism may be used in combination with a catheter locking mechanism by locking the ablation probe in place relative to the handle and then using the sliding mechanism to move the working channel relative to the ablation probe while the ablation probe remains in a fixed position to unsheathe the distal end of the ablation probe from within the working channel prior to ablation being activated.

[0026] The housing may include an elongated gripping portion adapted to be gripped by a user's single hand. The gripping portion may be shaped and configured to be gripped using a left hand grip or a right hand grip.

[0027] The gripping portion may have a non-circular cross-sectional shape. The non-circular profile may be an elongated shape having a major axis that is longer in length than a perpendicular minor axis. The cross-sectional shape may include two flat portions connected by two curved portions.

[0028] The handle may include one or more controllers (e.g., actuators or other user-activated buttons or input interfaces). The one or more controllers may be spaced apart from the gripping portion along the length of the housing. They may be spaced apart in the proximal direction along the length of the housing. The controllers may be spaced apart from the gripping portion such that they may be accessed by the user's thumb when the user's thumb wraps around the gripping portion. This may allow the user to operate the controllers without repositioning their grip. The control means may include control means for a catheter locking mechanism for fixing the position of the catheter.

[0029] The handle may include one or more visual indicators. The one or more visual indicators may indicate the status of an ablation procedure. The visual indicator may be, for example, one or more colored lights (e.g., LEDs) having different colors corresponding to different states of the ablation procedure.

[0030] The gripping portion may define a gripping axis about which the user grips the housing. The gripping axis may be offset relative to the working channel connection axis. The gripping axis may be the central longitudinal axis of the portion of the housing gripped by the user. By offsetting the gripping axis, a pivot point may be created between the handle and the working channel. This may make the handle easier to manipulate when connected to the working channel compared to the case where the gripping axis is in line with the working channel.

[0031] The working channel connection interface can be adapted to form a rotatable coupling with the working channel (e.g., between the working channel and the handle), whereby during use, the handle can rotate about the working channel connection axis. This can allow the user to rotate the handle about the axis of the working channel so that it is in a comfortable position during use. This can also allow the user to adopt a left-handed or right-handed grip as needed.

[0032] A portion of the length of the guide cable can extend along a portion of the length of the handle. The guide cable can extend within or beside a portion of the housing. This can allow the guide cable to form a firm "ridge" for the handle.

[0033] The housing can include a recessed portion in which the working channel or the guide cable connection interface is located. This can provide space for the working channel to be connected (e.g., including any adapters or other components at the proximal end of the working channel), and can allow for use with a variety of different internal anatomical access systems.

[0034] The microwave ablation probe handle can further include a manifold that is adapted to be connected to the guide cable and the catheter of the ablation probe. The manifold can be arranged to form an electrical connection between the guide cable and the ablation probe when connected.

[0035] The guide cable can be arranged to carry a coolant flow. The manifold can be arranged to form a fluid connection between the catheter and the guide cable when connected.

[0036] The manifold can provide a secure electrical connection means and / or fluid connection means between the guide cable within the handle and the ablation probe without adversely affecting the ablation procedure.

[0037] The manifold can have a minimum fluid and / or electrical connection distance within the handle.

[0038] The manifold can include an RF connector (such as a coaxial connector (e.g., an MCX connector)), and the RF connector is arranged to provide an electrical connection between the feed cable contained in the catheter of the ablation probe and the guide cable.

[0039] The manifold can include a coolant inflow channel that is arranged to supply coolant from the guide cable to the catheter of the ablation probe.

[0040] The manifold can include a coolant outflow channel that is arranged to carry the return flow of coolant from the catheter of the ablation probe to the guide cable. The manifold can be configured to minimize its length and thus minimize the length of the feed cable contained in the catheter.

[0041] According to a second aspect, there is provided a handle system comprising the ablation probe handle of the first aspect. The handle system may further comprise a connector that is connectable between the guide cable and the working channel at a point along the guide cable spaced from the housing (when they are connected to the handle). This can provide additional structural strength by using the strength of the guide cable.

[0042] According to a third aspect, there is provided an ablation system comprising the handle of the first aspect (or the handle system of the second aspect).

[0043] The ablation system may include an ablation probe mountable within the housing of the handle. The ablation probe may include a catheter having one or more transparent coolant conduits arranged to carry a coolant flow. The coolant may be visible through an exposed portion outside the housing during use. This may allow the user to check for the absence of air bubbles in the coolant. The microwave ablation system may further include a guide cable.

[0044] The catheter of the ablation probe may have one or more reference marks arranged to indicate the position of the catheter within the working channel. The reference marks may include a distance scale arranged to indicate the length of the exposed portion of the catheter inserted into the handle. This may allow the user to precisely move the ablation probe into and out of the housing to adjust the position of the ablation probe along the working channel. The reference marks may additionally or alternatively indicate when the catheter reaches the distal end of the working channel and / or when it is a specified distance from the distal end of the working channel. This may be particularly relevant to ablation procedures.

[0045] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, except as mutually exclusive, the features described with respect to any one of the above aspects may be applied to any other aspect. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0047] Figure 1 A schematic illustration of a microwave ablation system for use with an endoscope is shown;

[0048] Figure 2a Shows Figure 1 a side view of the ablation probe handle of the ablation system of;

[0049] Figures 2a to 2f illustrates the shape of the cross-sectional profile of the gripping portion of the handle;

[0050] Figure 3 Shows an end view of the handle shown in FIG. 2;

[0051] Figure 4shows a cross-sectional view corresponding to the view of Figure 2a ;

[0052] Figure 5 and Figure 6 respectively show Figures 2a to 4 the handle of

[0053] Figure 7 in a right hand grip and a left hand grip during use;

[0054] Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of an ablation probe handle according to another embodiment;

[0055] Figure 9 and Figure 10 show Figure 8 a cross-sectional view of the ablation probe handle of

[0056] Figure 11 wherein the two-part housing is in different configurations; Figures 8 to 10 shows the ablation probe handle of

[0057] Figure 12 in use; and

[0058] Figure 13 shows Figure 12 a schematic diagram of a manifold that can form part of the handle of the present application; and Detailed Description

[0059] In Figure 1 is schematically shown a microwave ablation system 100 for use with an internal anatomy access system 102. The microwave ablation system 100 of the present disclosure is adapted to be inserted into the body to reach a desired treatment site, such as a site of malignant tissue growth and the like. To reach the desired treatment site, the ablation system includes an ablation probe 112 adapted to be inserted through the working channel of an internal anatomy access system 102 (which may be referred to as a delivery device or system). By an internal anatomy access system, we mean any device that can be placed within a patient's anatomy and that has a working channel for inserting an instrument into a desired location within the body. The internal anatomy access system may be a luminal delivery system that is arranged to deliver along a patient's anatomical lumen (e.g., the passage of the trachea and bronchi in the lung or esophagus). The ablation system 100 may be used, for example, endoscopically or using an ENB (electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy) system to reach various disease locations within the body. The internal anatomy access system may include a bronchoscope or other type of endoscope or other type of internal navigation system required to reach any relevant part of the body.

[0060] In the presently described embodiments, the delivery system 102 includes an endoscope 104 having a main working channel 106 which, as is known in the art, can be inserted into a patient's body. In Figure 1 only a partial length of the main working channel 106 is shown, but it can extend a suitable distance to reach a desired location within the body, such as an ablation site within the lung. The endoscope includes a handle 108 by which a user can grasp and manipulate the endoscope. The delivery system 102 further includes an extended working channel 110 which is inserted along the main working channel 106 of the endoscope 104 to reach the ablation site. Various primary devices or tools, such as an ablation probe, can be inserted along the extended working channel 110.

[0061] The microwave ablation system 100 generally includes a microwave ablation probe 112, a handle 114, a guide cable 116, and a console unit 118. The microwave ablation probe 112 includes an applicator or antenna 120 at its distal end, and microwave radiation is applied via the applicator or antenna 120 to surrounding tissue to cause local heating and ablation. The ablation probe 112 further includes a catheter 122 which is arranged to carry the microwave signal to the applicator. The catheter 112 can include a coaxial cable which is arranged to transmit the microwave signal within the catheter tube. The catheter is flexible such that it can be inserted and fed along the working channels 106, 110 of the delivery system 102 to reach the ablation site. Again, in Figure 1 only a portion of the length of the ablation probe is shown to aid clarity. The handle of the present application can be used in combination with any suitable ablation probe having a long flexible catheter for insertion along the working channel. The ablation probe can be, for example, as described in the applicant's earlier PCT application WO2022 / 233938.

[0062] The term "catheter" generally refers to the elongate flexible member of the ablation probe that is inserted through the working channel. The catheter can include a feed cable adapted to transmit the microwave signal from the proximal end of the catheter to the applicator, and can include a cooling circuit through which a coolant (such as water or saline) can be pumped to control the surface temperature of the catheter to a safe level (e.g., < 43 degs.C). The feed cable can be a coaxial cable. The catheter can include a catheter fitting in which the feed cable is located.

[0063] The ablation probe extends between a proximal end and a distal end. As used in this application, the terms "distal" and "proximal" are relative to the user who operates the ablation probe and the treatment site when the ablation probe is positioned for use - the distal end or working channel of the ablation probe is the distal end closest to the treatment site, and the proximal end is the proximal end closest to the user. Any reference to "length" herein is the long axis between the distal point and the proximal point on the component.

[0064] The ablation probe 112 and the extended working channel 110 are connected to the handle 114 of the ablation system at their respective proximal ends, as will be described in more detail later. The handle 114 is adapted to be grasped by the user during use such that the extended working channel 110 and the ablation probe 112 can be manipulated and positioned at the desired ablation site.

[0065] The handle 114 is also connected to a guiding cable 116. The guiding cable 116 is connected to the catheter 112 of the ablation probe within the handle 114 and is used to provide the supply of microwave and / or coolant. The guiding cable is connected to a console unit 118, which can act as a control unit where microwave ablation is controlled. The console unit 118 includes a microwave generator, which can be used to generate microwave signals of a desired frequency. The microwave signals propagate from the console unit 118 to the handle 114 via the guiding cable, and then along the catheter 122 of the ablation probe to the applicator 120, where microwave radiation is emitted. The console unit 118 can further supply a coolant source for cooling the ablation probe 112 and in particular for cooling the applicator 120. The ablation probe 112 can include one or more coolant channels (not shown in the figure) extending along the length of the catheter 122, and the one or more coolant channels can form a coolant circuit that is arranged to carry the coolant to the applicator 120 and back again. The console unit 118 can include a pump (not shown in the figure) that is arranged to supply a coolant flow to and from the catheter 122 via the guiding cable. Although Figure 1 a single console unit 118 is shown to provide both the microwave signal and the coolant supply, this arrangement may not be the case. The guiding cable can provide only the microwave signal, or can include further branches to connect to a separate coolant supply system separate from the ablation console 118.

[0066] The guiding cable can include a bundle of cables and / or other components, and can include any of the following: an RF feed cable, a coolant pipe for providing a coolant circuit to the ablation catheter, and / or a low-power electronic cable for providing power / communication from the ablation console to a PCB contained within the handle.

[0067] The ablation system 100 is shown in Figure 1 an assembled state in which it will be during use, where a guide cable 116 and an extended working channel 110 are coupled to a handle 114, and a catheter 122 of an ablation probe 112 is mounted in the handle 114 and extends through the extended working channel 110 and an endoscopic main working channel 106. Some or all of these components may be provided separately and may be assembled with other suitable components to form the ablation system 100 shown. For example, the handle 114 may be provided separately. The handle 114 may be provided with a guide cable 116 ready to be attached to or integral with it, such that it may then be attached to a suitable console unit 118. The handle 114 may be provided separately from the extended working channel 122 (and other components of the delivery system 102) and may be used with various different types of working channels as described below. The handle 114 may be provided separately from the ablation probe 112, and the ablation probe 112 may be coupled to the handle 114 before use. Thus, a variety of different ablation probes may be used with the handle of the present application.

[0068] Figures 2a to 6 Further details of the handle 114 are shown in Figure 2a a side view of the handle 114 alone without the other components of the ablation system 100. Figure 3 A corresponding end view is shown. Figure 4 is shown corresponding to Figure 2a a cross-sectional view in which there are a guide cable 116, a catheter 122, and an extended working channel 110 of the ablation probe 112. Figure 4 and Figure 5 show an example of the handle 114 in use.

[0069] The handle 114 includes a housing 126. A portion of the housing is adapted to be grasped by a user when using the handle 114. The handle 114 includes a guide cable connection interface 128 and a working channel connection interface 130, to which the guide cable 116 and the extended working channel 110 are connected respectively.

[0070] The guide cable connection interface 128 in this embodiment includes an orifice or hole 128a extending within the housing 126, into which the guide cable 116 is inserted and fixed to the manifold 132. The manifold is located within the housing 126 of the handle 114 and is connected to the guide cable 116 and the feed cable 122 of the ablation probe. The manifold thus provides a connection interface between the guide cable and the ablation probe, through which an electrical connection for microwave propagation is provided and a fluid connection is provided to supply the coolant circuit of the ablation probe. Thus, the handle provides an integral electrical connection and coolant supply connection from the guide cable 116 to the ablation probe 112.

[0071] In other embodiments, other types of connection interfaces for the guide cable 116 may be provided. In some embodiments, the manifold 132 may be absent and there may be a different connection between the ablation probe 112 and the guide cable 116 provided by the handle 114. In the described embodiment, the guide cable 116 has a permanent fixed connection to the handle 114, however, in other embodiments, the guide cable may be removably connected.

[0072] A portion of the length of the guide cable 116 extends along a portion of the length of the handle 114. In the presently described embodiment, the guide cable 116 extends within the body of the housing 126 along a portion of the length of the housing 126 (e.g., along the orifice 128a in the housing) before terminating at the manifold 132, which is near the proximal end of the handle. By extending along the length of the housing 126 in this way, the guide cable 116 serves to form a "ridge" of the handle 114. Since the guide cable 116 is typically a relatively thick and heavy cable, this provides improved strength to the handle 114 and can simplify the design. In other embodiments, the guide cable 116 may extend along a portion of the handle length to form a ridge without being located inside the housing 126, as will be described below. In other embodiments, the guide cable 116 may not extend within the body of the housing 126, but may be connected at the outer wall of the housing 126.

[0073] The working channel connection interface 130 in this embodiment includes a Luer connector and includes a Luer lock 132 through which the extended working channel 110 of the delivery system can be connected and disconnected. The use of a Luer connector can provide interoperability with many different prior art delivery systems. Other types of connection interfaces may be provided for the working channel 110. The working channel 110 can be removably connected via the working channel interface 130 to allow use with different delivery systems. The working channel connection interface can be directly connected to the working channel as schematically shown or can be connected via additional connecting components (such as an adapter or other interface components forming part of the delivery system 102, etc.). Figure 4 As schematically shown, it can be directly connected to the working channel or can be connected via additional connecting components (such as an adapter or other interface components forming part of the delivery system 102, etc.).

[0074] The handle 114 further includes a mounting member 134 that is adapted to mount the ablation probe within the housing 126. As will be described in more detail later, the ablation probe (more specifically, the catheter 122 of the ablation probe 112) extends through the housing such that it is mounted within the housing 126. The catheter 122 of the ablation probe 112 is arranged such that it extends from the outer wall of the housing at a point that coincides with the working channel connection interface 130. When the extended working channel 110 is connected to the handle 114, the path of the catheter 122 is thereby aligned with the working channel 110, and the path of the catheter 122 can be inserted and fed along the working channel 110. The catheter 122 may be slidably mounted relative to the housing 126 (or a portion of the housing) such that it can be moved proximally or distally along the length of the working channel 110. This will be described in more detail later.

[0075] The guide cable connection interface 128 and the working channel connection interface 130 each define a respective connection axis, namely, the guide cable connection axis X and the working channel connection axis Y, as Figure 4 shown. The guide cable connection axis extends through the connection point of the guide cable 116 and defines the axis X along the direction of the guide cable connection or the direction extending from a point on the outer surface of the housing 126 (e.g., the axis X extends perpendicular to the surface of the housing at the respective connection interface). Similarly, the working channel connection axis extends through the connection point of the extended working channel 110 and defines the axis Y along the direction of the working channel connection or the direction extending from a point on the outer surface of the housing 126 (e.g., the axis Y extends perpendicular to the surface of the housing at the respective connection interface). The connection interfaces 128, 130 are arranged on the handle 114 such that the guide cable and the working channel connection axes X, Y are offset relative to each other as Figure 4 shown and are parallel to each other or may also be parallel to each other. In addition, the working channel may extend from the housing in the same direction relative to the housing as the guide cable, as Figure 4 indicated by the arrow in. In other words, they both extend away from the housing 126 in the distal direction of the handle 114 (e.g., from the respective face of the housing on the distal side of the handle). Although the working channel and the guide cable may be said to extend away from the handle in the same direction, it should be understood that the guide cable conducts electricity to the handle, i.e., the direction of the electric current flow is opposite to Figure 4 the direction in which the guide cable extends from the handle as indicated by the arrow in.

[0076] By as Figure 4The arrangement shown in FIG. 0 connects the interface 128, 130, the guide cable 116, and the working channel 110 to extend away from the handle 114 in the same direction and offset from each other, rather than connecting from opposite ends of the handle along the same longitudinal axis of the handle. This connection arrangement helps to reconfigure the weight distribution of the guide cable 116 and the handle 114 (e.g., compared to the case where they are in line), and can reduce or minimize the load on the connection point of the delivery system (working channel). This can reduce the leverage of the heavy guide cable 116 on the handle 114, which in turn allows it to be more easily maneuvered during use.

[0077] As discussed above, the handle includes an ablation probe mount 134 that is adapted to mount the catheter 112 of the ablation probe within the housing such that it extends along the length of the working channel 110. The ablation probe mount is arranged to connect the ablation probe 112 to the guide cable 116 via a manifold 132 at its proximal end. The proximal end of the catheter 122 is thus anchored to a fixed point on or within the housing 126. The ablation probe mount 134 is further arranged to allow the catheter 112 to slide through and relative to the housing 126 such that it can be inserted along the length of the working channel 110. The ablation probe mount may include a guide hole through which the catheter 112 can pass such that it is slidably mounted within the housing. The ablation probe mount 134 is arranged to form an exposed portion 122a of the catheter 122 that extends outside the housing 126 and then the catheter further extends back into the housing such that it is guided along the connection axis Y of the working channel. The catheter is arranged to slide through the housing 126 as shown by the arrow in FIG. Figure 4 . By adjusting the length of the exposed portion 122a, the user can adjust the position of the catheter 122 of the ablation probe 112 within the working channels 106, 110 and position the applicator 120 at the distal tip of the ablation probe 112 at a desired location for ablation.

[0078] As visible in FIG. Figure 4 , the exposed portion 122a of the catheter forms a loop outside the housing 126. This loop can be easily grasped and maneuvered by the user. This is advantageous in allowing tactile feedback to the user. The act of pushing the catheter 122 into and out of the housing 126 via the exposed portion 122a allows the user to directly manipulate the ablation probe and can be an action similar to the existing method of feeding the device into the working channel of an endoscope. This can help the user operate the handle using skills that have already been practiced.

[0079] In some embodiments, the catheter 112 may include one or more transparent coolant channels that are arranged to carry a coolant flow along the length of the ablation probe 112, as described above. The exposed portion 122a of the catheter is further advantageous because it allows the coolant flow to be visible during use. For example, the user may be able to see any air bubbles within the exposed portion of the catheter within the cooling system, which will need to be removed before ablation can occur.

[0080] In some embodiments, the catheter 112 of the ablation probe may have reference markings arranged to indicate the position of the catheter within the working channel. The reference markings may be provided on the portion of the catheter that forms the exposed portion 122a such that they are visible during use. The reference markings may include a distance scale that is arranged to indicate the length of the exposed portion of the catheter tubing that has been inserted into the handle. This may indicate the length of the catheter that has been inserted into or withdrawn from the handle, thereby indicating how much the distal tip of the ablation probe is being moved. It may also include one or more markings to specifically indicate when the distal tip of the catheter reaches the distal end of the working channel and / or when the catheter extends distally from the tip of the working channel by a specific distance.

[0081] In the presently described embodiment, the handle 114 further includes a catheter locking mechanism 136. The catheter locking mechanism 136 can move between an unlocked state in which the catheter 122 can slide relative to the housing 126 and a locked state in which the catheter 122 cannot slide relative to the housing 126. In this embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a rotational lock control. The rotational lock controller includes a rotatable wheel 136a that can be operated by the user to lock and release the catheter 112. In the example described, the rotatable wheel 136a may be mounted on a thread such that when the rotatable wheel 136a is rotated, it moves along the length of the catheter 112 that extends through it. The rotational lock controller further includes an elastomeric material that extends around the catheter and that is axially compressed (e.g., in the direction along the length of the catheter) by the rotatable wheel 136a when the rotatable wheel 136a is rotated. The elastomeric material is constrained such that compression of the elastomeric material in this manner causes it to expand radially and grip the catheter 122 and resist its sliding through the housing. Rotation of the wheel in the opposite direction allows the elastomeric material to expand to release the catheter 122. This should be understood as only one type of locking mechanism 136 that can be used to grip the catheter 112 and resist its sliding relative to the housing. The locking mechanism 136 can be used when the ablation probe has been positioned at the desired ablation site to hold it in place during ablation.

[0082] See again Figure 2a and Figure 4, the housing 126 includes an elongated grip portion 138 that is adapted to be grasped by a user. The grip portion 138 is shaped such that it can be grasped by the user with one hand, as can be seen in Figure 5 and Figure 6 . The grip portion 138 is shaped such that when grasped by the user, the user's arm has a wrist extension and ulnar deviation of 0 degrees to 20 degrees. This can provide an optimal natural grip position. The grip portion 138 can be grasped by the user with one hand (e.g., their non-dominant hand), while the second hand is free to grasp the handle 108 of the endoscope 104 or adjust the position of the ablation probe.

[0083] The handle 114 includes one or more controllers arranged to control its operation. Such control can include the locking mechanism 136 described above, but can include other controls for controlling aspects such as the position of the ablation probe or the operation of the device. The grip portion 138 is arranged on the handle 114 relative to the one or more controllers such that they are spaced apart from each other along the length of the housing 126. The controller(s) can be spaced apart from the grip portion 138 in the proximal direction of the handle. The controller(s) are positioned relative to the grip portion 138 such that when the user's fingers wrap around the grip portion 138, the controller(s) are operated by the user's thumb without the user having to change the position of their hand, as can be seen in Figure 5 and Figure 6 . The controller(s) can be spaced from the grip portion by a distance D, which can be such that the user's thumb can reach them and can be, for example, between 40 mm and 58 mm. The reach of the user's thumb is shown by the dashed arc drawn in Figure 2a . By positioning the controller(s) in this location, they can also be reached by both left-handed and right-handed users, as can be seen in Figure 5 and Figure 6 .

[0084] The handle can include one or more visual indicators. The one or more visual indicators can indicate the status of the ablation procedure. The visual indicator(s) can be, for example, one or more colored lights (e.g., LEDs) having different colors corresponding to different states of the ablation procedure. The visual indicator(s) can communicate with the control circuitry provided at the console unit and can indicate the ablation procedure status, such as indicating that the system is ready for ablation or that the ablation is activated or that an error has occurred, etc. The visual indicator(s) can allow the user to see the progress of the ablation procedure without having to turn and look at the console unit 118.

[0085] The visual indicator (colored light) can be powered / controlled using a printed circuit board (PCB) installed within the handle. The PCB can also interface with a thermocouple contained within the ablation catheter. The PCB can also include an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) chip to store / record process-related information. The PCT can communicate with the ablation console via a guide cable.

[0086] The grasping portion 138 defines a grasping axis (labeled Z) within Figures 2a to 3 which the user grasps the handle 114 about the grasping axis. As can be seen in Figures 2a to 3 the grasping axis Z can form a central longitudinal axis along the centerline of the portion of the housing grasped by the user. In the Figures 2a to 6 embodiment of, the grasping axis Z coincides with the guide cable connection axis X. However, this may not be the case for all embodiments described later. The grasping axis can more generally be parallel to the guide cable and the working channel connection axes X, Y. As can be seen in Figures 2a to 3 the grasping axis Z is offset relative to the working channel connection axis Y such that they do not coincide. Thus, the grasping portion 138 is not concentric or aligned with the working channel axis Y. This can help provide a comfortable grip on the handle and improved weight balance. The separation between the grasping axis Z and the working channel connection axis Y can create a pivot point between the handle and the delivery system, making it easier to manipulate the handle.

[0087] Figure 2b A cross-section of the grasping portion 138 of the housing 126 taken through the plane labeled AA in Figure 2a is shown. The grasping portion has a non-circular cross-section. More specifically, the grasping portion includes two flat portions 139a, 139b, each flat portion extending longitudinally along the length of the grasping portion 138. As shown in the figure, the flat portions 139a, 139b are disposed on opposite sides of the grasping portion 138. The flat portions 139a, 139b are connected by curved portions 139c, 139d. Thus, the cross-section has a generally elongated shape (e.g., having a minor axis M shorter than the vertical major axis N). In other embodiments, the grasping portion can have a cross-section of another elongated shape, such as an oval or elliptical cross-section, etc.

[0088] The cross-sectional shape of the grasping portion facilitates grasping in a desired orientation by not being perfectly cylindrical or circular. When grasped, the flat portions can be located in the palm of the hand, and the curved portions can accommodate the purlicue between the fingers at one end of the grasping portion and wrap the fingers around the other end of the grasping portion in the correct (desired) orientation. This helps guide the user to grasp the handle in the correct orientation.

[0089] The major axis and minor axis of the cross-section of the gripping portion can be oriented relative to the remainder of the handle housing to give a desired gripping orientation. The minor axis of the gripping portion can be parallel to the plane in which the gripping axis Z and the working channel connection axis Y are arranged. More specifically, the minor axis can be arranged in the same plane as the gripping axis Z and the working channel connection axis Y, as can be seen in Figure 3 . This can orient the user's hand in the desired orientation.

[0090] Further details of the cross-sectional geometry of the gripping portion 138 are shown in Figures 2c - 2f . The flat portions 139a, 139b and the curved portions 139c, 139d of the cross-sectional shape of the gripping portion are marked in Figure 2c only for the sake of clarity, but are also visible in Figures 2d - 2f . The geometry of the cross-sectional shape of the gripping portion 138 is defined by two overlapping ellipses and two tangents connecting them, as can be seen in each of the diagrams in Figure 2c - Figure f.

[0091] The centers of the ellipses are offset relative to each other by the distance A marked in Figure 2c . The centers of the ellipses are equidistantly spaced from the gripping axis line Z such that the gripping axis extends along the centerline of the gripping portion 138. The offset of the centers of the ellipses causes the length of the cross-section of the gripper along its major axis to be greater than the length of its minor axis, as described above. In Figure 2d , the length across the major axis is marked as C, and the length across the minor axis is marked as B. The length C is greater than the length B to give a non-circular profile of the gripping portion. The flat portions 139a, 139b are defined by corresponding tangential straight edges, each of which connects one ellipse to the other, as can be seen in Figure 2e (especially in the close-up). The tangents defining the flat portions are parallel to the major axis of the gripping portion. Figure 2f Illustrated is the offset mounting of the gripping portion 138 relative to the working channel connection axis Y. The offset distance D between the gripping axis and the working channel connection axis is perpendicular to the center or midpoint of the offset between the two ellipses, which determines the center point of the mounting portion of the handle.

[0092] The geometry of the cross-section shown in the drawings should be understood as a preferred embodiment, and other shapes are possible, including a circular cross-section.

[0093] In some embodiments, the gripping portion can include a guiding surface that is arranged to indicate the portion of the handle to be gripped by the user. The guiding surface can extend over some or all of the gripping portion 138. The guiding surface can be formed by a part of the housing having a different textured finish or can be formed by a recessed area of the surface. This can guide the user to grip the handle in the correct orientation.

[0094] The handle 114 can rotate about the working channel connection axis during use. A rotatable coupling can be provided between the working channel 110 and the housing (e.g., a rotatable Luer connector) or the working channel connection interface 130 can include a component rotatably mounted to the housing 126 that is coupled to the working channel 110. By allowing relative rotation between the handle 114 and the working channel 110, the user can rotate the handle 114 about the working channel connection axis Y such that it is held in a comfortable position. Additionally, as Figure 5 and Figure 6 shown, this can allow the handle to be comfortably held in either the left or right hand without having to provide different left and right hand devices for different users.

[0095] In the presently described embodiment, the guide cable 116 extends along the length of the gripping portion 136 of the handle 114 to provide the structural strength described above. In the presently described embodiment, this is achieved by a guide cable connection axis X that coincides with the gripping axis Z. Thus, the user effectively grips around the guide cable 116 by gripping the gripping portion 138 of the handle 114.

[0096] Referring again to Figure 2a and Figure 4 , the housing 126 includes a recessed portion 140 in which the working channel 110 is located when connected. The recessed portion 140 includes a portion of reduced width along the length of the handle housing 126 and provides a location for the working channel connection interface 130 in the present embodiment. The recessed portion 140 can provide space for the connection of a delivery system beside the gripping portion 126 of the handle 114, as Figure 5 and Figure 6 can be seen. The recessed portion 140 can advantageously provide space for a variety of different shaped delivery systems that can have variously shaped components at the proximal end of the working channel. This can allow a variety of different delivery systems to be connected to the handle such that the handle can be used with a range of existing systems.

[0097] Figure 7 Shows a cross-section through another embodiment of the handle 114 of the present application. Figure 7 The handle 114 shown includes components corresponding to the components of the handle 114 shown in FIGS. 2 to Figure 6 and these components are correspondingly labeled with the same reference numerals.

[0098] Figure 7 The handle 114 of Figures 2a to 6The embodiment differs in that it includes a sliding mechanism 142, and the connection point of the working channel 110 can slide relative to the housing 126 of the handle 114 via the sliding mechanism. In Figure 7 the embodiment, the handle 114 includes a sliding member (e.g., a carriage) 142a, and the working channel connection interface is located on the sliding member 142a. The sliding member 142 is arranged to slide relative to the housing 126 along a track 142b. The sliding member 142a allows independent movement of the working channel 110 relative to the housing 126, and thus when the working channel 110 is fixed relative to the housing 126 (e.g., manually by the user or more preferably using the catheter locking mechanism 136), the sliding member 142a also allows independent movement of the working channel 110 relative to the catheter 110. This can allow the ablation probe 112 to be withdrawn from within the extended working channel 110 while maintaining the position of the distal end of the ablation probe 112 at the ablation site. For example, the ablation probe 112 can be positioned at the desired location while it is still within the extended working channel 110. Once in place, the ablation probe 112 can be locked in position relative to the handle 114 before the sliding mechanism 142 is operated to retract the working channel 110 relative to the handle 114, such that the distal tip of the ablation probe 112 extends from the working channel 110 while remaining in a fixed position.

[0099] Figures 8 to 10 Another embodiment of a handle 214 for an ablation probe is illustrated in. The handle 214 can be used with Figure 1 the ablation system 100 and the delivery system 102 illustrated in. Figure 8 shows a side view corresponding to Figure 2a and Figure 9 and Figure 10 show cross-sectional views corresponding to two different configurations of Figure 4 . The handle 214 includes components corresponding to the components of the above embodiments, where corresponding reference numerals are used accordingly. Anything described in connection with other embodiments herein can be used in connection with Figures 8 to 10 the things described, and vice versa, and thus will not be described again.

[0100] Figures 8 to 10 The handle 214 shown in includes a housing 226, and the housing 26 includes two parts - a first part 226a and a second part 226b. The first part 226a and the second part 226b can move relative to each other (e.g., slide), as shown in Figure 9 and Figure 10 . The first part of the housing 226 includes a guide cable connection interface 228. The second part of the housing includes a working channel connection interface 230. The connection interfaces 228, 230 can be associated with Figures 2a to 4Those described connection interfaces are the same and have connection axes arranged in a similar configuration (e.g., having offset connection axes), a guiding cable, and a working channel extending distally away from the housing, as shown in the figure.

[0101] The ablation probe is fixed within the first portion of the housing 226a. As Figure 9 and Figure 10 shown, the catheter 222 of the ablation probe is fixed to the manifold 232, which in turn is coupled to the lead cable 216 in a manner similar to that described above. Thus, the guiding cable 216 and the catheter 222 are fixed relative to the first portion of the housing 226a. The second portion of the housing 226b is arranged to provide a sliding connection to the catheter 222 such that the catheter can slide relative to the second portion of the housing 226b. The catheter 222 is arranged to extend through the second housing 226b and exit the second housing 226b at a point coinciding with the working channel connection interface 230 such that it extends along the working channel similar to other embodiments described herein.

[0102] In this embodiment, the second portion of the housing 226b includes a travel post 226c along which the first portion of the housing 226a can slide (translate) relative to the second portion of the housing 226b. Other arrangements or mechanisms can be used to provide relative sliding movement between the components of the housing 226.

[0103] By moving the first portion of the housing 226a relative to the second portion of the housing 226b, the ablation probe (i.e., the catheter 222) can be moved relative to the working channel 210. This can be seen in Figure 9 and Figure 10 where the first portion of the housing 226a is pushed downward in the direction of the arrow in Figure 10 while the second portion of the housing 226b remains stationary such that the catheter 222 is pushed along the working channel 210. Thus, this provides movement of the catheter 222 similar to that provided by the adjustment of the exposed loop portion 122a of the embodiment shown in Figures 2a to 6 .

[0104] Referring again to Figure 8 , the housing 226 includes a gripping portion 238 that can be gripped (and can have a similar shape) in a manner similar to that described above and as shown in Figure 11 . The gripping portion 238 is provided on the first portion of the housing 226a. Thus, the second portion of the housing 226b can remain stationary (via its connection to the working channel 210), and the first portion of the housing 226a is translated relative to the second portion of the housing to move the catheter 222 along the working channel 210.

[0105] The gripping portion 238 of the first part of the housing 226a defines a gripping axis Z, similar to the gripping portion 138 described above. The gripping axis Z in this embodiment extends along the central longitudinal axis of the first part of the housing 226a. As Figure 11 can be seen, the gripping axis Z is offset with respect to the connection axis Y of the working channel (and offset with respect to the axis along which the catheter extends). This provides a similarly offset gripping position away from the axis of the working channel as described above. The gripping axis Y can also be offset with respect to the connection axis of the catheter 216, as Figure 11 shown, or can coincide with it.

[0106] Referring again to Figure 8 , the housing 226 defines a recessed portion 240, which is similar to the recessed portion 140 of the housing shown in Figure 2a . However, in this embodiment, the recessed portion 240 provides a location for the guide cable connection interface 228. The guide cable 216 extends along the length of the handle 214, similar to that described above in connection with Figures 2a to 6 , so as to similarly create a "ridge" on the handle. However, in the Figures 8 to 11 embodiment, the guide cable extends outside the housing 226 along the recessed portion 240, rather than extending inside the housing as in the case of Figure 4 . However, a similar effect is still achieved.

[0107] Referring again to Figure 1 , in any of the embodiments described herein, the handles 114, 214 can form part of a handle system that further includes a guide cable to the working channel connector 300. The connector 300 is arranged to connect between the guide cables 116, 216 and the working channels 110, 210 at a point spaced apart from the housings 126, 226 of the handles 114, 214 along the guide cables 116, 216. This can provide an auxiliary mounting point on the guide cable that is coupled to the delivery system. This can help provide further structural support by using the strength of the guide cable to support the working channel. It can also help reduce the leverage on the connection between the handles 114, 214 and the working channels 110, 210.

[0108] Figure 12 and Figure 13Further details of the manifold 332 are shown, which can be used to provide electrical and fluid connections between the lead cable and the catheter of the ablation probe. As described above, the ablation probe of the present application includes an elongated flexible catheter 322, which includes a catheter fitting or shaft 350 in which a feed cable 352 is located. The catheter further includes a coolant fitting 354, which is arranged to carry a coolant flow along the length of the catheter 322 to an applicator ( Figure 12 and Figure 13 not shown) at its distal tip. The return flow of the coolant flows along a space within the catheter shaft 350, which forms a coolant return channel, to return the coolant to the proximal end of the ablation probe.

[0109] The manifold 332 can include an RF connector 356, which is arranged to provide an electrical connection between the feed cable 352 and the lead cable. The RF connector 356 can include a coaxial connector (or an MCX connector (micro coaxial connector)). The manifold can further include a seal 358 (such as an O-ring seal, etc.), which is arranged to form a seal between the RF connector 356 and the housing 332a of the manifold or other components.

[0110] The manifold 332 further includes a coolant inflow channel 360, which is fluidly connected to the coolant tube 354 of the catheter 322, and the coolant inflow channel 360 is fluidly connected to the coolant channel in the lead cable to provide a fluid connection between them. The manifold 332 further includes a coolant outflow channel 362, which is fluidly connected to the coolant return channel of the catheter 322, and the coolant outflow channel 362 is also fluidly connected to the coolant channel in the lead cable to provide a fluid connection between them. This allows the coolant to return to the ablation console. The inflow coolant channel 360 and the outflow coolant channel 362 can be located on either side of the RF connector 356, as Figure 12 shown.

[0111] In Figure 12 the manifold 332 shown can have a minimum total length L. This helps to reduce the total length of the feed cable contained within the catheter. Although the ablation probe must have sufficient length to reach the ablation site within the body, it is beneficial to reduce the feed cable length to minimize electrical losses in the system and maximize power delivery to the radiation tip, and thus maximize the size of the ablation zone that can be achieved.

[0112] The coolant inflow channel 360 and the coolant outflow channel 362 can be angled outward relative to the housing (or centerline) of the manifold, as Figure 12 shown. In Figure 13In the alternative embodiment shown, the coolant inflow channel 360 and the coolant outflow channel 362 may be parallel to the housing of the manifold, such as parallel to the RF connector. This may allow for further reduction in the length of the manifold (and thus allow for further reduction in the length of the feed cable).

[0113] The manifolds described above may be used in any embodiment of the handles 114, 214 disclosed herein. The manifolds may also be used with other ablation probe handles (e.g., those ablation probe handles that do not have the offset arrangement of the connection interfaces described herein (i.e., the guide cable and the working channel connection axes are not parallel and not offset from each other, and the connection interfaces are arranged such that when the working channel and the guide cable are connected to the handle, the working channel extends in the same direction as the guide cable relative to the housing)).

[0114] The handles and handle systems disclosed herein may be used with a variety of different delivery systems and not only the Figure 1 delivery system shown. Thus, the working channel interface is more generally adapted to connect to any suitable working channel through which the ablation probe may extend and which may be inserted into a patient to reach the ablation site. For example, there may not necessarily be a separate main working channel 106 and an extended working channel 110 as Figure 1 shown. There may be a single working channel or any other arrangement of working channels, as long as it can be coupled to the handle.

[0115] Although the embodiments described above include microwave ablation probes, the present application may equally apply to other types of ablation probes. The ablation probe may be arranged to emit radiofrequency radiation to ablate tissue rather than radiation at microwave frequencies. Thus, the microwave ablation system 102 may more generally be an ablation system arranged to cause tissue heating.

[0116] Various modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the claims. Any feature disclosed in connection with one embodiment may be used in combination with the features of another embodiment.

[0117] Although the appended claims relate to specific combinations of features, it should be understood that the scope of the disclosure of the present invention also includes any novel feature or any novel combination of features disclosed expressly or implicitly herein or any generalization thereof, whether or not it relates to the same invention as currently claimed in any claim and whether or not it alleviates any or all of the same technical problems as the present invention.

[0118] Features described in the context of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, for the sake of brevity, the various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. The applicant hereby states that during the examination of this application or any further application derived therefrom, new claims may be formulated for such features and / or combinations of such features.

[0119] For completeness, it is also stated that the term "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, the term "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality, a single processor or other unit may implement the functions of several means recited in the claims, and any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An ablation probe handle for use with an ablation probe, the ablation probe being adapted for use with an internal anatomy access system, the ablation probe handle comprising: a housing adapted to be grasped by a user; a guiding cable connection interface adapted to connect to a guiding cable for supplying a microwave source, the guiding cable connection interface defining a guiding cable connection axis; an ablation probe mount adapted to mount a catheter of the ablation probe within the housing; and a working channel connection interface adapted to connect to a working channel of an internal anatomy access system, wherein the catheter of the ablation probe is arranged to extend from the housing along the working channel when the working channel is connected to the handle, the working channel connection interface defining a working channel connection axis, wherein the guiding cable and the working channel connection axis are parallel and offset relative to each other, and wherein the connection interfaces are arranged such that when the working channel and the guiding cable are connected to the handle, the working channel extends in the same direction as the guiding cable relative to the housing.

2. The ablation probe handle according to claim 1, wherein The ablation probe mount is adapted to fix the catheter of the ablation probe within the housing such that an exposed portion of the length of the catheter is formed outside the housing, the exposed portion being proximal along the length of the catheter relative to the point at which the catheter extends from the working channel connection interface, wherein the catheter is movable along the working channel by adjusting the length of the exposed portion outside the housing.

3. The ablation probe handle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the housing comprises a first part and a second part; the guiding cable connection interface is provided at the first part of the housing; the ablation probe mount is adapted to fix the catheter of the ablation probe relative to the first part of the housing and to slidably fix the catheter relative to the second part of the housing; the working channel connection interface is provided at the second part of the housing; and the first part of the housing is slidable relative to the second part of the housing, whereby the catheter is slidable along the length of the working channel.

4. The ablation probe handle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The handle comprises a catheter locking mechanism movable between an unlocked state in which the catheter is slidable relative to the housing and a locked state in which the catheter is not slidable relative to the housing.

5. The ablation probe handle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The handle comprises a sliding mechanism including a sliding member on which the working channel connection interface is located, the sliding member being slidable relative to the housing to allow independent movement of the working channel relative to the catheter.

6. The ablation probe handle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The housing comprises an elongated grasping portion adapted to be grasped by the user with one hand, and optionally wherein the grasping portion has a non-circular cross-section and preferably comprises a surface having two flat portions linked by two curved portions.

7. The ablation probe handle according to claim 6, wherein, The handle includes one or more controllers, and wherein the one or more controllers are spaced apart from the gripping portion along the length of the housing, preferably spaced apart in the proximal direction along the length of the housing.

8. The ablation probe handle according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein The gripping portion defines a gripping axis, and the housing is gripped by the user about the gripping axis, wherein the gripping axis is offset relative to the working channel connection axis.

9. The ablation probe handle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The working channel connection interface is adapted to be rotatably coupled with the working channel, whereby during use, the handle is rotatable about the working channel connection axis.

10. The ablation probe handle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, A portion of the length of the guide cable extends along a portion of the length of the handle, preferably within or beside a portion of the housing.

11. The ablation probe handle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The housing includes a recessed portion, and the working channel or the guide cable connection interface is located in the recessed portion.

12. The ablation probe handle according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a manifold adapted to be connected to the guide cable and the catheter of the ablation probe and arranged to form an electrical connection between the guide cable and the catheter upon connection, and optionally wherein, The guide cable is arranged to carry a coolant flow, and the manifold is arranged to form a fluid connection between the conduit and the guide cable when connected.

13. The ablation probe handle according to claim 12, wherein, The manifold includes any one or more of the following: a) An RF connector, such as a coaxial connector, which is arranged to provide an electrical connection between a feed cable contained within the conduit of the ablation probe and the guide cable; b) A coolant inlet channel, which is arranged to provide a coolant supply from the guide cable through the conduit of the ablation probe; And c) A coolant outlet channel, which is arranged to carry a return flow of coolant from the conduit of the ablation probe to the guide cable.

14. A handle system, the handle system includes an ablation probe handle according to any one of the preceding claims, the handle system further includes a connector, and the connector is capable of connecting between the guide cable and the working channel at a point along the guide cable spaced apart from the housing.

15. An ablation system, comprising a handle or a handle system according to any one of the preceding claims directly or indirectly subordinate to claim 2, and an ablation probe capable of being installed in the housing of the handle, wherein, One or two of the following: a) The ablation probe includes a conduit having one or more transparent coolant conduits arranged to carry a coolant flow, and wherein the coolant is visible through the exposed portion outside the housing during use; and / or b) The conduit of the ablation probe has reference marks arranged to indicate the position of the conduit within the working channel.

Images