Control console and accessories for RF nerve ablation and method of operating nerve ablation

Abstract

To provide an electrosurgical system and a method for RF nerve ablation.SOLUTION: A control console for nerve ablation by high frequency (RF) includes: a plurality of channels; a plurality of RF amplifiers each of which transmits energy to corresponding one of the plurality of channels; and a controller which is connected to the plurality of RF amplifiers, generates control signals for individually and independently controlling each of the plurality of RF amplifiers, and successively applies one of a plurality of control signals to each of RF amplifiers transmitting energy to the corresponding channel one by one.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The disclosure of this application relates to radio frequency (RF) nerve ablation ( Electrosurgical console for nerve ablation (ablation, cauterization) and related methods and and accessories.

[0002] [CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This patent application is a continuation of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 491,6 filed on April 28, 2017. No. 15, filed on Oct. 23, 2007, which claims priority to and the full benefit of US Provisional Patent Application No. 2007 / 0136664 and the disclosure therein is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The entire contents of this specification are hereby incorporated by reference. [Background technology]

[0003] R is used to ablate affected sensory nerves to treat nerve-based pain. F energy is commonly utilized. Conventionally, electrosurgical consoles have a single RF amplifier. RF energy is then delivered through multiple channels to electrodes connected to the control console. These electrodes are placed at the treatment location and RF energy is delivered through the electrodes. By this, RF lesions are created, which in turn cause activation of the affected nerve. Bracing is performed.

[0004] One drawback of electrosurgical consoles stems from the limitations of using a single RF amplifier. Relieving a patient's pain over a wide area often requires treatment at multiple locations. For example, most RF nerve ablation procedures require three or more separate sites. To perform the procedure efficiently, multiple locations must be treated simultaneously. It is necessary to treat multiple locations simultaneously by using multiple channels. However, there are RF nerve ablation systems that perform The system typically utilizes a single RF amplifier shared by multiple channels. Temperature feedback on each channel to regulate the delivery of RF energy to the treatment location Thus, closed loop control can be used.

[0005] A single RF amplifier can be used to induce RF damage at multiple locations simultaneously. There are two basic techniques for injuring multiple nerve locations with this single RF amplifier. This is achieved by applying the output energy from a single RF amplifier to multiple locations simultaneously. Alternatively, the output energy of a single RF amplifier can be measured at multiple locations. This can also be done by applying the voltages sequentially rather than simultaneously. Although it is a treatment for pulmonary circulation, it is limited to the use of a single RF amplifier. This allows for both simultaneous energy supply and non-simultaneous time-sliced ​​energy supply. Both have their drawbacks.

[0006] Simultaneous application of RF energy to multiple locations from a single RF amplifier results in They have limited ability to control the RF energy delivered to each location. Power is strongly influenced by the patient-to-circuit impedance from each location to the common return location. The power levels required to effectively treat each injury location typically occur at It is subject to anatomical variations that exist in every patient, such as blood vessels. It is not possible to fully control each channel independently. All channels are controlled by their To achieve each set temperature, the output power level required varies depending on the most demanding location. A single control loop is used to adjust the RF output amplitude. Channel-specific control is limited to simple on / off selection of treatment locations.

[0007] Non-simultaneous energy supply allows for fully independent control loops, but a single R A practical implementation of non-simultaneous time slicing from the F amplifier is to use a mechanical relay. The requirements for guiding RF output waveforms to various channels are limited in order to ensure reliable operation. To ensure this, the RF output must be removed before switching the relay state and the relay contacts must be re-opened. It is necessary not to resume RF output until the channel is stable. Time slice switching between the two is limited to relatively low frequencies. For example, some The control console features a channel output cycle of approximately 2 Hertz. Such low frequency switching of the RF output energy from the amplifier can result in inadvertent neuromuscular injury. Increase the possibility of unwanted patient stimulation in the form of stimulation. As off times occur, it becomes increasingly difficult to heat the injury site to a therapeutic temperature. Another drawback associated with non-simultaneous time slicing from a single RF amplifier is the lack of switching between channels. Experimental results related to instantaneous changes in the magnitude of the output power level of an RF amplifier during switching. This is a practical limit.

[0008] Another drawback of conventional electrosurgical consoles is that they deliver stimulation energy to the patient. This is due to the inability to ensure adequate delivery of The safety and effectiveness of is highly dependent on proper placement of the electrodes at the treatment site. must be placed in close proximity to the nerve to be ablated; otherwise Similarly, electrodes should not be placed too close to motor nerves or other tissues, which should be avoided. It is also important that the device is not placed too close together, otherwise the patient may experience changes in the wrong position. Patients may suffer loss of motor function or other adverse side effects related to the administration of

[0009] Electrode placement is guided by visualization guidance, most commonly C-arm fluoroscopy. The bone structure and metal electrodes are fairly well visualized by X-ray imaging equipment. However, nerve fibers are not visualized using this imaging technique. The structure incorporates navigational labels to guide the placement of electrodes in close proximity to well-established neural pathways. It serves as a landmark.

[0010] Following visualization guidance, the patient receives feedback from electrical stimulation applied to each electrode. , which can be utilized during the electrode placement process as a supplemental means of verifying proper electrode placement. There are two distinct forms of electrical stimulation: sensory nerve stimulation and motor nerve stimulation. The surgical console allows for the selection of a sensory or motor waveform and the desired amplitude of the selected stimulus. The patient's response provides the user with an aid in assessing electrode placement.

[0011] Sensory nerve stimulation is optimized to elicit a sensory nerve response. The proximity of the electrodes to the selected sensory nerves can be determined by applying sensory nerve stimulation to the electrodes. On the other hand, motor nerve stimulation can be optimized to elicit a motor nerve response. The distance from the motor nerve that must be avoided is the distance from the electrode to the motor nerve. It can be evaluated by doing the following.

[0012] Conventional electrosurgical consoles inhibit selected waveforms from reaching the patient. Undetected hardware failures may occur. If a fault in the transmission circuit configuration is not detected, the physician may be able to provide treatment based on erroneous patient feedback. This situation may lead to inadvertent motor neuron loss. This may increase the risk of injury.

[0013] Moreover, management of attachment cables in conventional electrosurgical consoles can be difficult. Various types of nerve ablation using electrosurgical consoles have been reported. There are many types of electrodes and electrode configurations. Examples include monopolar electrodes, bipolar self-grounding electrodes, and and dual monopolar electrodes that operate in a parallel bipolar fashion. The electrodes and electrode configurations of the electrosurgical console often include one or more of the electrodes. A variation of the attachment cable that connects to one of several different combinations of channels. Bipolar self-grounding electrodes have their own challenges. Monopolar electrodes Bipolar self-grounding electrodes utilize one channel of the surgical console. Utilizes two channels of an electrosurgical console. Bipolar self-grounding attachment Changing the attachment cable to make the device work properly is particularly cumbersome. The need to change the attachment cable to fit the accessory is a potential source of usage error. In addition, the attachment cable has been shown to increase the incidence of It is also well known that when disconnected from the sole, it has a tendency to be misplaced. .

[0014] Additionally, bipolar self-grounding electrodes utilize two channels on the electrosurgical console. However, each bipolar self-grounding electrode is limited to producing a single change at a single location. Electrosurgical consoles are usually equipped with four or fewer channels for practical reasons. Therefore, the use of bipolar self-grounding electrodes reduces the performance of the electrosurgical console. The force is limited to the occurrence of no more than two bipolar self-grounding transitions at any one time.

[0015] Yet another drawback of conventional electrosurgical consoles is the lack of sufficient electrical conductivity to permit electrical contact between the electrodes or electrodes utilized by the console. The inability to track and display data related to cable accessories. Electronic devices (e.g., electrically erasable devices) for the purposes of use metering and / or Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) in medical device accessories For example, electronic devices may have a mains supply to which accessories are connected. The electronic device typically functions to identify the attachment to the unit. The attachment has a writable portion that functions as a use meter. If the accessory is not identified as an accessory, the main unit will not operate with the attached accessory. When an accessory is used, the main unit is for single patient use only. To prohibit future use of accessories that are intended to be used for It writes automatic marking to embedded devices.

[0016] In the field of nerve ablation, a method for detecting a signal having an authentication section and an odometer data structure is provided. It is known to provide an electrode with a connector which accommodates an EEPROM. If the accessory is not identified by the electrosurgical console as a supported accessory, The clinical console will disable any activity with the attached electrodes.

[0017] Some electrosurgical consoles read electrode usage data and wait until the odometer reaches a predetermined value. After the attached accessory is nearing the end of its useful life, The system is configured to provide the user with a warning message that may be Therefore, the odometer reading is never displayed to the user and the data is stored in the electrosurgical console. Therefore, when the electrodes are disconnected from the electrosurgical console, the usage data, The authentication and identification data disappears immediately. This is exacerbated by the fact that the device may have many of each type of electrode. The user of the clinical console may request information regarding electrodes that are or have been connected to the console. However, the current study does not have a practical way to track and display the associated data. Tracking of certification and usage data for cable accessories in the field is nearly non-existent . Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0018] Accordingly, at least the foregoing considerations surrounding conventional electrosurgical consoles and their accessories have been addressed. There remains a need to address this issue. [Means for solving the problem]

[0019] An exemplary method for controlling a control console for RF nerve ablation is provided. The control console is connected to a plurality of channels and corresponding ones of the plurality of channels. a plurality of RF amplifiers each dedicated to deliver energy to one of the plurality of RF amplifiers; The method further comprises using the controller to adjust the R and generating control signals for individually and independently controlling each of the F amplifiers. The controller simultaneously transmits the control signal to each RF amplifier that transmits energy to the corresponding channel. Apply them one by one in sequence.

[0020] An example of a control console for radio frequency (RF) nerve ablation is provided. The control console includes a plurality of channels. A plurality of RF amplifiers are provided for the plurality of channels. Each of the RF amplifiers is dedicated to deliver energy to a corresponding one of the RF amplifiers. A controller connected to the device outputs control signals for individually and independently controlling each of the RF amplifiers. and applying the control signals to each of the RF amplifiers, one at a time, in sequence to activate the corresponding channels. The device is configured to deliver energy to the cell.

[0021] An example of a cable attachment is provided. The cable attachment includes a monopolar electrode attachment. Interconnect the optics and / or bipolar self-grounding electrode attachments to the control console. The control console is configured to connect to the electrodes through one or more channels. One or more of the attachments are energized to perform RF nerve ablation. The cable accessory is configured to connect to the control console. A first interface and the monopolar electrode attachment and / or the bipolar electrode attachment. and a second interface configured to connect to a self-grounding electrode attachment. The cable accessory may be configured to connect any electrode attachment to the second interface. The monopolar electrodes are connected to one channel of the control console depending on which channel is being used. Attachment or bipolar self-grounding electrode attachment corresponding to the signal output to the said an output circuit connected between the first interface and the second interface; A path is provided from the bipolar self-grounding electrode attachment to the control console. A first feedback circuit path corresponding to a signal feedback to the one channel is connected to the first interface. The second interface is connected between the first interface and the second interface.

[0022] Another example of a cable accessory is provided, which includes one or more electrode attachments. The control console is configured to interconnect the components to a control console. The one or more electrode attachments are energized through the channels to stimulate the nerves by RF stimulation. The cable attachment is configured to connect the control console to the a first interface configured to connect to the one or more electrode attachments; and a second interface configured to connect to the first interface. A circuit is connected between the first interface and the second interface. Selecting one or more of a plurality of electrical path configurations between the second interface and the by connecting the one or more electrode attachments to the one or more channels of the control console. A controllable switch device is provided to accommodate interconnections between the channels.

[0023] Another example of a control console for RF nerve ablation is provided. A console consists of a display, a controller, one or more processors, and an interface. The interface includes an attachment suitable for RF nerve ablation. and a connection between the memory device of each attachment and the controller. Each memory device is configured to facilitate the attachment of an identification The control unit stores a usage amount data that identifies the usage amount of the attachment and the attachment other than the usage amount data. The console includes a non-transitory memory having instructions stored therein, the instructions being configured to control the one or more processors. When executed by the processor, the attachment accepted by the interface configured to read and store the identification data and the usage data associated with the The stored identification data and usage data are processed. The instructions include: When executed, a digital representation of the processed identification data and usage data is displayed on the display. Generate for use.

[0024] Another example of how to operate a control console for RF nerve ablation is presented. The control console includes a display, a controller, and an RF neural access point. and an interface configured to accept an attachment suitable for bracing. Each attachment includes identification data that identifies the attachment and and usage data identifying usage of the resource. The control console receives the identification data and the usage data associated with the attachment. reading quantity data from said memory device; and and storing the stored identification data and the use The control console receives the processed identification data and usage data. A digital representation of the data is generated and the digital representation is displayed using the display.

[0025] Yet another example of a control console for RF nerve ablation is provided. The control console includes a stimulus generator configured to output a stimulus signal, and a and a calibration element configured to receive the stimulus signal. The detection circuit is configured to generate a reading based on receiving a signal from the A controller coupled to the controller analyzes the readings and determines based on the analysis of the readings The sensing circuit is configured to calibrate the sensing circuit using a

[0026] Yet another example of a method for operating a control console for RF nerve ablation The control console includes a stimulus generator, a calibration element, a sensing circuit, and a control The method includes outputting a stimulus signal using a simulation generator. and receiving the stimulus signal using the calibration element. The calibration element generates a reading based on receiving the stimulus signal. A controller analyzes the readings and calibrates the sensing circuitry based on the analysis of the readings. do.

[0027] Advantages of the control console, cable accessories, and methods described herein, and These examples can be understood with reference to the description provided herein. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0028] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective assembly view of one example of an RF nerve ablation electrosurgical system that includes a control console to which a grounding pad assembly and a cable attachment connectable to one or more electrode attachments are connectable. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of some components and features of the control console, the cable accessory, and one or more electrode attachments. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 illustrates the flow of RF output signals generated by the control console in an example in which the electrode attachment is monopolar and is operating in monopolar mode. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 illustrates the flow of RF output signals generated by the control console in an example where the electrode attachment is monopolar and operating in parallel bipolar mode. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 illustrates the flow of RF output signals generated by the control console in an example in which the electrode attachment comprises a bipolar self-grounding electrode. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram of the components of the control console configured to accommodate the monopolar electrode attachment of FIG. 3 operated in monopolar mode. [Figure 7] FIG. 5 is a circuit diagram of the components of the control console configured to accommodate the monopolar electrode attachment of FIG. 4 operated in parallel bipolar mode. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a circuit diagram of the control console components configured to accommodate monopolar electrode attachments operating in parallel bipolar mode interleaved between the control console's internal channels (CH2 / CH3). [Figure 9] FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram of the components of a control console configured to accommodate the bipolar self-grounding electrode attachment of FIG. [Figure 10] 7 is a chart illustrating the application of input control signals to multiple RF amplifiers in the control console of FIG. 6 with the monopolar electrode attachment operating in monopolar mode. [Figure 11] 8 is a chart illustrating application of input control signals to multiple RF amplifiers in the control console of FIG. 7 with the monopolar electrode attachment operating in parallel bipolar mode. [Figure 12] 10 is a chart illustrating application of input control signals to multiple RF amplifiers in a control console with respect to FIG. 9 for operation of a bipolar self-grounded electrode attachment. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the cable accessory in the example of FIG. 1; [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a cable accessory circuit configuration according to one example in which the cable accessory is utilized passively. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a diagram of circuitry for a cable accessory according to another example in which the cable accessory is actively operable. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram of a circuit configuration for a relay within the actively operated cable accessory of FIG. 15. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of another example of a cable accessory actively operable in accordance with the time slicing technique applied to a relay of the cable accessory. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a top view of the example cable accessory of FIG. 17. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is a circuit diagram of components of a control console configured to enable stimulation and impedance verification and calibration according to one example. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a sample diagram of a graphical user interface displayable on a display of a control console showing identification data, usage data, and error data for various electrode attachments that are or have been connected to the control console, according to one example. [Figure 21]FIG. 13 is a sample diagram of a graphical user interface showing a control console's error log for electrode attachments that are or have been connected to the control console, according to one example. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a sample diagram of a graphical user interface showing an error log for a selected electrode attachment that is or has been connected to a control console, according to one example. [Figure 23] FIG. 13 is a sample diagram of a graphical user interface showing a summary of cable accessories and their respective electrode attachments connected to the cable accessories, according to one example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0029] [I. Overview] Referring to the drawings, in which like reference characters indicate like parts or counterparts throughout the several views, The control console 30 and the corresponding parts are shown. and a cable accessory (32) configured as an electrosurgical system. As shown in FIG. 1, one or more electrode assemblies having electrodes E1 to E4 are provided. 34 connects to the control console 30 either directly or through a cable attachment 32. The ground pad 36 is configured to be controlled in some configurations, as described below. The electrosurgical system 20 may be connected to a control console 30. and a method of operating the cable accessory 32 are further described herein.

[0030] The electrosurgical system 20 is adapted to stimulate the tissue of a patient, specifically nerves such as nerves in the spinal cord region of the patient. The control console 30 is for RF treatment or RF transformation of the nervous system. The radio frequency electric energy controlled by the Energize one or more of the following.

[0031] In one example, a pain management procedure, the electrosurgical system 20 may be used to treat pain when nerve cells are no longer functional. It is used to transform nerve cells to a state where they cannot function properly. The control console 30 controls the temperature of the target nerve tissue. Controlled RF energy is applied to the electrode assembly 24 .

[0032] The electrosurgical system 20 can also be used in a "pulsed mode." The energy does not generate thermal damage, but keeps the increase in tissue temperature below the level that will kill cells. The pain relief is achieved by pulse R having a sufficiently low duty cycle. By altering nervous tissue through pulsed electromagnetic fields generated by F energy. This alteration of neural tissue in turn affects gene expression within neurons.

[0033] The electrosurgical system 20 includes a lumbar, thoracic, and cervical region of the spine, peripheral nerves, and nerve roots. For pain relief procedures involving any suitable portion of a patient, including nerves, that may require pain relief. Examples include Facet Denervation, Percutaneous Percutaneous Chordotomy / Dorsal Root E (DREZ) Trigeminal Zone Injury, Trigeminus Neuralgia, and Rhizotomy These include, but are not limited to:

[0034] Each electrode assembly 34 delivers RF energy to a targeted neural tissue region of the patient. In one example, each electrode assembly 34 includes a cannula ( The cannula has an exposed tip and is adapted to penetrate and advance through the skin and tissue. so that the exposed tip of the cannula is positioned percutaneously relative to the target nerve. Once the procedure is complete, the cannula can be discarded. It can also facilitate connection of a syringe (not shown) for local injection of an anesthetic. Once the tissue has been properly dosed, the syringe is removed from the cannula and the cannula is Each electrode E1 to E4 is a temperature detection device that detects the temperature at the target site. In one example, the temperature sensing device may also include a thermocouple. They are pairs.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 1, each of the electrodes E1 to E4 is connectable to a first end of a cable 38. The cable 38 includes a connector 40 at a second, opposite end. The connector 40 is connected to a control The electrodes E1 to E4 can be directly and detachably connected to the console 30 or the cable attachment 32. The combination of the corresponding cable 38 and connector 40 is referred to herein as an electrical The cable 38 and the connector 40 may be integrally formed. It will be appreciated that the power supply may be a separate, removable component. The poles E1 to E4 may also be integrated in the cable 38 or may be separate, removable parts. Inside the cable 38, electrical energy may be carried for purposes described below. There are multiple insulated conductors that facilitate the transmission of signals. The cable accessory 32 is This is also explained in detail in the section.

[0036] Although four electrodes E1-E4 are shown in FIG. 1, any suitable number of electrodes E may be utilized. In addition, it will be appreciated that the cable attachment 32 may be The configuration of the control console 30 and the ability to directly connect the electrode attachment 43 to the control console 30 Depending on the circumstances, it may or may not be used.

[0037] Examples of electrode assemblies, cannulas, temperature sensing devices, and electrode attachments include: "Electrode Assembly with Separate Bipolar Cannu" granted on October 7, 2014 No. 8,852,182 entitled "La and Supply Electrode" The disclosure of this U.S. patent is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. It shall form part of the

[0038] The control console 30 in FIG. 1 includes a first More specifically, the first connection interface 42 is , to receive a cable accessory 32 to which any of the electrodes E1 to E4 is connected. If the cable attachment 32 is not utilized, the control console 30 is configured to: Instead, multiple connection interfaces each individually connecting to only one electrode E1 to E4 are provided. The control console 30 may be configured with a ground pad 36. Specifically, the connector 46 of the cable 48 connected to the ground pad 36 is The second connection interface 44 is configured as follows:

[0039] A control console 30, as shown in FIG. 1, allows a user to, among other things, select operating parameters. and navigate through the various operating modes offered by the software on the control console 30. A graphical user interface (GUI) 52 is displayed that allows the user to The display device 50 is configured to display In one example, the location of a touch on the screen (e.g., capacitive sensing) is used to determine the display A touch screen such as an LCD touch screen that allows selection of digital buttons represented on the device 50. In some examples, display device 50 may be another touch screen device. In addition, the display device 50 can be aligned with the extended To activate a function or a secondary function, or through any of the electrodes E1 to E4 As an additional measure of redundancy, the timer is turned on before some functions, such as the application of electrical energy, are started. Alternatively, the GUI 52 can sense the pressure applied by a mouse or The system is controlled by peripheral input devices connected to a control console 30, such as a keyboard and a It is also possible.

[0040] The modes selectable on GUI52 are sensory nerve stimulation mode and motor nerve stimulation mode. In the sensory nerve stimulation mode, the control console 30 controls the electrodes By applying a sensory stimulation signal through any of E1 to E4, the reaction of the sensory nerve is The selected treatment is selected from the GUI 52 to allow for elicitation of a response. The proximity to the selected sensory nerves is dependent on the application of sensory nerve stimulation to a given electrode(s) E1-E4. The parameters of the sensory stimulation signal can be selected from the GUI 52. Examples of meters include the amplitude (volts) and duration (e.g., 2 seconds) of application of the stimulus signal. Furthermore, the GUI 52 receives the following from the first connection interface 42 of the control console 30: If applicable, the cable attachment 32, the electrode attachment 43 (including electrodes), the patient , via ground pad 36 to a second connection interface 44 of control console 30 The impedance (in ohms) of the signal path and return path can be displayed. Additional features of the measurement and analysis are described below.

[0041] The motor nerve stimulation mode is initiated by the control console 30 applying a motor stimulation signal. Selected from GUI 52 to allow for eliciting a motor response. The gap from the motor nerve that must be reached is reached by applying a motor stimulation signal to electrodes E1 to E4. The amplitude and duration of the motor stimulation signal can be evaluated using the GUI52. The impedance during application of the motor stimulation signal can be selected from the GUI52 The information can be monitored and displayed on the

[0042] In the lesion mode, the control console 30 controls the electrodes E1 to E4 to treat the target nerve. to generate an RF output signal to one of the The damage mode includes two submodes: thermal mode and pulse mode. Thermal modes are designed to ablate targeted areas to eliminate nerve function. As an example of the heat mode setting values ​​selectable from GUI52, The desired temperature to be applied (e.g., 80 degrees Celsius) and the desired duration of application of RF power (e.g., 9 0 seconds). The pulse mode is designed to treat sensory nerves without eliminating nerve function. Examples of pulse mode settings that can be selected from GUI52 include RF voltage (e.g. variable, i.e. 30 volts to 75 volts), frequency (e.g. 2 Hz to 50 Hz) and their respective pulse widths (e.g., 2ms, 4ms, 10ms, 20ms, 100 Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the RF pulse parameters include thermal and pulse modes. It can be seen that these can be combined or treated separately. The modes can include RF output signals that include pulses, and the pulsed modes include thermal ablation. The RF output signal may be configured to transmit an RF output signal configured for a specific application. Modes of RF ablation other than those described may also be utilized. Various other features may be provided by GUI 52 in addition to those described above. In addition, it will be understood that the GUI 52 may be configured to implement any of the features or selections described herein. The present invention may have any configuration or design that enables any of the selections.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 2, the control console 30 includes one or more processors 54 and one or more The computer executable instructions 58 or code may include one or more The instructions 58 may be stored in the memory device 56. and when executed by one or more processors 54, The instructions are configured to perform various functions of the device 30. For example, the instructions are Execution of the instructions is configured to implement a GUI 52 on the display 50. Various other functions performed by the processor(s) are described below. 54 and memory device(s) 56 may have any suitable configuration. and may be of any suitable type enabling the implementation of the functions described herein. This can be done.

[0044] The control console 30 may include a controller 60. In one example, the method is performed by processor(s) 54. The controller 60 may be a separate device from the processor(s) 54. That is, the controller 60 can execute instructions 58 stored in the memory 56. and / or may be implemented, for example, as a programmable internal chipset of the controller 60. Executes the controller's own instructions stored in ROM, RAM, or flash memory. For example, the controller 60 may be configured to handle any suitable number of bits, such as 32 bits. In one example, the device may include a microcontroller, or MCU, having a The controller 60 is implemented on the motherboard of the control console 30. The electrode reads the measured values ​​and detects the signals from the electrodes E1 to E4, and sends the necessary providing suitable stimulation or RF output signals, implementing temperature control loops and impedance measurement control; , configuration of variable power supply, identification of electrode attachment 43 and connection configuration, and display 50, speakers, and other communication devices such as wireless, Ethernet, or USB-based communication. Providing communication with peripherals of the control console 30, such as trusted control devices. Functions other than those described herein may also be performed by controller 60. In addition, any of the functions described herein may be implemented by the controller 6 The method may be implemented by zero, one or more processors 54 or a combination thereof.

[0045] Referring again to FIG. 2, the control console 30 further includes an amplifier / relay section 62. This section 62 includes an amplifier section 64 and a relay section 66. The amplifier section 64 and the relay section 66 can be separate sections. They can be separate or integrated into a common section or board. The amplifier section 64 and the relay section 66 may be implemented by a single controller or control system. These sections 64, 66 can be combined into a controller 60. The amplifier section may be controlled by any suitable component or subsystem. The power supply 64 is connected to the controller 60 and receives variable power from the controller 60. Several different devices can be controlled to produce a desired or specified RF output signal through the supply. The relay section 66 is configured to provide a power supply to the RF amplifier 68. Feed control, output control of RF amplifier 68, feedback control of RF amplifier 68, impedance calibration and control, calibration and control of stimulation, testing of ground pads 36, and dedicated electrode attachments 4 Various relays direct the electrical path of the return path of the three (e.g., a self-grounded bipolar electrode) The amplifier / relay control section 62 is constructed using a can be.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 1, the control console 30 includes a housing 70. In one example, processor(s) 54, memory 56, controller 60, and amplifier / relay The control section 62 is disposed within a housing 70. The connection interface 42 of the accessory 32 / electrodes E1 to E4 and the interface of the ground pad 36 The interface 43 is coupled to a housing 70 and is configured to accommodate user interaction. Depending on the configuration and function of the control console 30, the following may be described: Some of the components described may alternatively be located remotely from the control console 30. 30 or otherwise connected to the control console 30. The present invention may be implemented by another device in communication with the network.

[0047] Next, various types of electrodes E1 to E4, electrode attachments 43 and configurations, and The supply paths of these RF output signals will now be described. In general, the control console 30 includes at least Three different types of electrode attachment 43 configurations are available: monopolar, parallel It is configured to operate in a bipolar configuration and a self-grounded bipolar configuration. These various electrode attachment 43 configurations are shown at a high level in FIGS. For simplicity, FIGS. 3-5 are schematic diagrams of the control console 30 and each of the treatment sections of each configuration. The connection between the four electrodes E1 to E4 is shown in FIG. More or fewer electrodes E1-E4 may be used for any given procedure as described. Additionally, the following description of FIGS. 3-5 is directed to RF power delivery. The sensory and motor stimulation signals are typically applied prior to the application of the RF output signal. The workflow steps related to the procedure, such as applying a signal and injecting anesthesia, are omitted. In addition, the control console 30 and The control structure of the cable attachment 32 is described in a later section.

[0048] FIG. 3 shows a monopolar configuration using four monopolar electrodes E1 to E4. The pole attachments 43 are individually attached to the cable attachments 32 connected to the control console 30. In the monopolar configuration, a ground pad 36 is utilized and is located adjacent to the treatment area. Each of the monopolar electrodes E1 to E4 is connected to a control circuit. The electrodes are connected to the console 30 through the cable attachment 32 and the respective electrode attachments 43. When each electrode E1 to E4 receives an RF output signal, the treatment area The damage volume (le) by monopolar is measured at the distal end of each electrode E1 to E4 that damages the site. For example, frictional heating can be achieved by alternating high frequency RF currents. R occurs near the uninsulated tips of the cannulas of the corresponding electrodes E1 to E4. The F output signal is sent from the distal tip of each electrode E1-E4 to the ground pad 36 and ultimately to The feedback is then sent to the control console 30. Thus, in the case of a monopolar configuration, each of the electrodes E1 to E4 is a connection that provides a common return path for all of the electrodes E1 to E4 used in this process. The presence of the ground pad 36 allows the electrodes E1 to E4 to be individually and effectively connected without relying on the other electrodes E1 to E4. Electricity is applied to the

[0049] FIG. 4 shows a parallel bipolar configuration using four monopolar electrodes E1 to E4. The electrode attachment 43 is individually attached to a cable attachment 32 connected to the control console 30. In the parallel bipolar configuration, two adjacent monopolar electrode pairs are For example, E1 and E2 are used together, and E3 and E4 are used together. For reasons explained in Section 1, it is not necessary to use a parallel bipolar configuration. It is used in monopolar form for intense use, but in bipolar form for nerve ablation. There may be situations where a ground pad 36 is utilized in conjunction with a bipolar electrode, such as when The monopolar electrodes E2 and E4 are connected to the control console 30 via cable attachment 32 and Each of the electrodes E1 and E2 receives an RF output signal through its respective electrode attachment 43. E2, upon receiving the RF output signal, operates electrodes E1 and E2 to damage the treatment site. Similarly, electrodes E3 and E4 are connected to the R Upon receiving the F output signal, the electrodes E3 and E4 cooperate to activate a buffer shared between their distal tips. Thus, the monopolar configuration creates a bipolar injury volume. The parallel bipolar configuration drives the RF output signal between the two RF output between two adjacent electrode tips, for example, E1 and E2, and E3 and E4, respectively. The lesion volume can take on various shapes depending on the distance between adjacent electrode tips. The RF output signal is passed from electrode E2 through electrode E1 and from electrode E4 through electrode E3. Thus, in the case of a parallel bipolar configuration, the electrodes E1 to E4 are energized in pairs, and their operation depends on the adjacent electrodes E1 to E4. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the electrode pairs do not have to be strictly parallel to one another. In addition, a separate monopolar electrode (and separate monopolar attachment cable 43) , and the pair of parallel bipolar attachment cables 43 and electrodes It is contemplated that a combination of assemblies 34 may be utilized.

[0050] FIG. 5 shows a bipolar self-grounding structure using four bipolar self-grounding electrodes E1 to E4. The electrode attachment 43 for each electrode is connected to a cable that is connected to the control console 30. The bipolar self-grounding electrodes E1 to E4 are individually attached to the cable attachment 32. The monopolar electrodes E1 to E4 have a different configuration and operate differently. Each of the bipolar self-grounding electrodes E1 to E4 is connected to the control console 30 via a cable. The electrodes 32 and 43 individually receive an RF power signal through their respective electrode attachments 43 . Ground pad 36 need not be utilized in a bipolar self-grounded configuration for reasons explained below. Each of the bipolar self-grounding electrodes E1-E4 receives an RF output signal and performs treatment. A bipolar lesion volume is generated at the distal tip of each electrode E1-E4 that damages the site. However, unlike the monopolar configuration, the RF output signal is transmitted to the same tip of each of the electrodes E1 to E4. and finally back to the control console 30. Each of the electrodes E1 to E4 is effectively energized independently of the other electrodes E1 to E4. However, unlike the monopolar configuration, the bipolar configuration The return path of the RF output signal in the self-grounded configuration of the gyroscope is such that the RF output signal ~Optimized by allowing direct feedback to the console 30 via E4 This eliminates the need to assemble and place the ground pad 36 and also reduces the There is no very long transmission of the RF signal power from poles E1-E4 through patient P to ground pad 36. In other words, each of the electrodes E1 to E4 has the above-mentioned feedback path passing through a single electrode E1 to E4. The NI 6113 is "self-grounded" by enabling

[0051] As examples, Figs. 6 to 9 show a monopolar configuration, a parallel bipolar configuration, and a self-grounded bipolar configuration. Polar Configuration Controller 60 and Amplifier Relay Control Section 62 Aspects and Components The same controller 60 and amplifier relay control section 62 configuration is shown in Figs. It will be understood that the above is for illustrative purposes only. For this purpose, each monopolar, parallel bipolar, and self-grounded bipolar configuration is Components that do not need to be utilized in the configuration are omitted from the illustration. These components may continue to exist to accommodate configurations other than those shown. Moreover, for the sake of simplicity, a certain number of components and electrical paths are shown. Although the structures described and referenced herein may include additional structures, any of the structures described may include additional structures. It will be understood that components and electrical paths are also contemplated.

[0052] As best seen in FIG. 6, amplifier section 64 includes four separate RF amplifiers 68A- Although four separate RF amplifiers 68A-68D are shown, any number of RF amplifiers may be used depending on the configuration. It will be appreciated that any number of RF amplifiers 68 greater than or equal to two may be provided or utilized. Each of the RF amplifiers 68A-68D will be connected to a corresponding channel of the control console 30. Provides RF output signals for CH1, CH2, CH3, and CH4. , CH4 is associated with the corresponding RF amplifier 68A-68D, and The electrodes connected to the first connection interface 42 of the console 30 are denoted by reference symbols E1 to E4. However, as will be explained, this may be the case. There are several configurations that may be used.

[0053] The controller 60 includes DC power supplies 72A-72D for the RF amplifiers 68A-68D. In one example, each DC power supply 72A-72D is connected to a respective RF amplifier 68A-68D and and / or channels CH1, CH2, CH3, CH4. C power supplies 72A-72D may be combined for any one or more of RF amplifiers 68A-68D. Depending on the selection made from GUI 52, the power provided by each of DC power supplies 72A to 72D can be The DC voltage applied can be variable, i.e., anywhere from 0 volts to 40 volts. .

[0054] Associated with each of the RF amplifiers 68A-68D is a power relay 74A-74D. Supply relays 74A-74D couple each DC power supply 72A-72D to each respective RF amplifier 68 Each of the power supply relays 74A to 74D is connected between the inputs of the DC power supplies 7 2A to 72D and the respective RF amplifiers 68A to 68D. For example, such switching can be achieved by switching each R DC power to the F amplifiers 68A-68D can be turned off when not needed, C Power supply relay 74 can be switched on when power is required. A to 74D are switches provided by the controller 60 and / or the relay section 66. The input of each of the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D is controlled by a DC power supply 72. Connected to ground to create a return path for the current provided by A~72D. Power Supply Relays 74A-74D may be of any suitable type, such as inductive load drivers, reed relays, etc. It may be a relay.

[0055] The input of each RF amplifier 68A-68D receives current from a respective DC power supply 72A-72D. Each of the RF amplifiers 68A-68D receives a respective RF output signal at its output. The RF output signal parameters are the voltage from the DC power supplies 72A to 72D, the RF output Parameters selected by the user from GUI52, such as force frequency, pulse width, etc. It depends on various factors such as

[0056] The controller 60 is configured to monitor one or more treatment parameters. As mentioned above, examples of such treatment parameters include patient-to-circuit impedance ( For example, the output of each of the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D passes through the patient P and The impedance of the path returning to the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D and the temperature of the damaged location (e.g. For example, the temperature is monitored by a thermocouple connected to each of the electrodes E1 to E4. When one or more of the channels CH1 to CH4 are connected, The controller 60 controls each of the RF amplifiers 6 based on one or more of the monitored treatment parameters. It is configured to generate control signals that control 8A to 68D at the input.

[0057] In one example, the control signal for each of the RF amplifiers 68A-68D is Two pulse width modulation (PWM) control signals 91, 93 (shown in Figs. 10 to 12) are applied to D. The PWM control signals 91 and 93 are used to control the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D to the respective channels C. to generate RF output signals RFA and RFB of H1 to CH4. For example, a monopolar configuration can use one RFA output signal, while a parallel bipolar configuration can use one RFA output signal. The polar configuration is two RFA output signals or two RFB output signals (one from each channel). A self-grounded bipolar configuration can be used for one channel (or two for different One RFA signal and one RFB signal can be used from one In the example, the PWM control signals 91, 93 are out of phase with each other (e.g., 180 degrees), The two PWM control signals 91 and 93 are sent at a high frequency such as 500 KHz. The 12V larger P The PWM control signals 91 and 93 shift the logic level of each power It then passes through a FET and is amplified using a topology known as push-pull. In effect, the sine wave is converted to a sine wave at the output of each of the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D. , an RF energy source, thereby providing an RF output signal.

[0058] In one example, each of the RF amplifiers 68A-68D has a center (neutral) tap input and The transformer has two line taps. The PWM control signal is obtained from the power FET. The amplified signals 91 and 93 are applied to the two line taps of this transformer. The amplitude of the sine wave of the RF output signal is determined by the input voltage from each of the DC power supplies 72A-72D to each of the transformer inputs. It depends on the variable voltage regulation (e.g., 0V to 40V) provided at the power center tap. The variable voltage regulation provided by each of the DC power supplies 72A-72D is also a control signal. , together with the PWM control signals 91 and 93, to control the inputs of the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D. Each transformer output controls the gain relative to the transformer input voltage, and ultimately the RF output signal. In one example, the gain is non-linear. For example, one DC power supply 72 provides If you provide 0V to the center tap, the output sine wave amplitude will be twice its input value, or 4. 0V. RF amplifiers 68A-68D can be The RFA output signal and the RFB output signal may have configurations other than those described above. Relay section 66 operates the signal delivery to the patient for one of two pole configurations. It is managed as follows.

[0059] The sensors and control algorithms determine how the PWM signals 91, 93 behave and and how the voltage regulation from the DC power supply 72 is set. If the impedance of the A lookup table stored in memory within the controller 60. The maximum allowable setting for the transformer center tap based on the patient impedance, The limit of the allowable current is checked. The new input voltage is calculated accordingly. The DC power source 72 is provided to the center tap of the transformer. Further, the output power is limited to a predetermined limit. For example, to limit to 25 watts (rms current x rms voltage), a push-pull topology The amplification is adjusted.

[0060] The patient-circuit impedance generally changes during the course of an injury. The patient-circuit impedance for each channel CH1 to CH4 is The impedance between the subject and the circuit is continuously monitored to compensate for real-time changes. As a result, the above-mentioned center currents of the DC power supplies 72A to 72D of the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D are This facilitates real-time adjustments to the top input voltage calculations.

[0061] An adjustable DC power supply 72A-72D dedicated to each RF amplifier 68A-68D provides stable Facilitates improved safety and effectiveness. Patient-to-circuit impedance measurements for each treatment location Utilizing this, each RF amplifier 6 can be tailored to maximize the safety and effectiveness of treatment at each injury site. The DC power supplies 72A to 72D of 8A to 68D can be adjusted. Based on the patient-circuit impedance of H4, the DC power supply of each of the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D is The upper voltage limit of 72A to 72D can be calculated, and the upper voltage limit of each channel CH1 to CHC Limiting the H4's respective maximum current and maximum power to clinically established safe levels It is possible.

[0062] Temperature sensor data from the treatment site is sent to the amplifier of that channel via PWM signals 91 and 93. The amount of time that a device is active during a given time slice (e.g., duty cycle) It can also be used to control the temperature (heat transfer) to prevent it from exceeding a desired value. The temperature measured on one of the channels CH1-CH4 is equal to the desired temperature for the control loop. If the load current is rising faster than the load current (e.g., by reducing the duty cycle), (i) completely stop the PWM signals 91, 93 for a certain percentage of the time slice This measure effectively shuts down the amplifier output of the channel. The PWM control signals 91, 93 and the variable voltage control signal from the DC power supply 72 are The control signals described herein are applied together at the inputs of amplifiers 68A-68D. The loop technique can be used for any of the channels CH1 to CH4. It may operate according to other methods not specifically recited herein.

[0063] Treatment parameters other than patient-circuit impedance and temperature can be used with the aforementioned techniques In addition, it should be understood that the patient-circuit impedance and and temperature, or a combination of these, can be used to generate the control signal. Additionally, the control signal may be controlled or modulated in a manner different from the described technique, based on the treatment parameters. It is considered that it is possible to specify

[0064] The RF amplifiers 68A-68D are distinguished from their respective DC power supplies 72A-72D. In other words, each of the channels CH1, CH2, CH3, and CH4 is In addition to accessing each of the DC power supplies 72A-72D, each of the RF amplifiers 68A Also access ~68D.

[0065] RF amplifier output relays 76A-76D are connected to the output of each of the RF amplifiers 68A-68D. A first connection interface of the control console 30 that connects to the power and cable attachment 32 42. Each of the RF amplifier output relays 76A to 76D is connected between each of the RF amplifiers 68 A to 68D and the first connection interface 42. For example, each of the RF amplifier output relays 76A to 76D Switching on each channel CH1, CH2, CH3, and CH4 will not damage them. When utilized by the control console 30 during the mode, sensory stimulation may be performed. RF amplifier output relays 76A-76D are not used in the motor stimulation mode or the motor stimulation mode. The switching provided by the controller 60 and / or the relay section 66 The RF amplifier output relays 76A-76D are controlled by inductive load drivers. , a reed relay, or any other suitable type of relay.

[0066] RF amplifier return relays 78A-78D are connected to each of the RF amplifiers 68A-68D. and a second connection of the control console 30, which connects to the connector 46 of the ground pad 36. The RF amplifier return relays 78A to 78D are connected between the , the on-chip connection between the second connection interface 42 and each of the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D. 1. The RF amplifier output relay 7 is configured to selectively switch the on / off connection. Just like 6A to 76D, turn on each of the RF amplifier return relays 78A to 78D. Switching occurs when each channel CH1, CH2, CH3, and CH4 is in damage mode. When utilized by the control console 30, the sensory stimulation mode or This is not done in the motor stimulation mode. The switching signals provided by the controller 60 and / or the relay section 66 The RF amplifier return relays 78A-78D are controlled by inductive load drivers, It may be any suitable type of relay, such as a reed relay.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 6, a device having four monopolar electrode attachments 43 as shown in the example of FIG. The operation of the amplifier relay control section 62 in a monopolar configuration is described below. The pole attachment 43 is connected to the first connection interface 42 and the ground pad 36 is connected to the second connection interface 42. Each of the channels CH1 to CH4 is connected to the second connection interface 44. Connected between the interface 44 and each of the RF amplifier return relays 78A-78D The ground pad relays 80A to 80D are For some configurations, such as monopolar configurations, that require a return path from the ground pad 36 Each of the ground pad relays 80A to 80D is connected to the controller 60 and and / or relay section 66, which may be controlled by a switching signal provided by the relay section 66. Each of the ground pad relays 80A-80D is in a closed state. In this case, a closed circuit is formed in a monopolar configuration as shown in FIG. In order to achieve this, the RF output signal for one of the channels, i.e. CH1 in FIG. The signal is output from RF amplifier 68A, passes through RF amplifier output relay 76A, and is connected to a first through the CH1 output on the interface 42, thereby leaving the control console 30 The RF output signal passes through the monopolar electrode attachment 43 connected to CH1. After this, the RF output signal passes through the patient and returns through the ground pad 36. From here, R The F output signal passes through a second connection interface 44 in the control console 30 and is connected to ground. Through pad relay 80A, through RF amplifier return relay 78A, and finally to CH1 This process is useful for electrode amplifiers operating in a monopolar configuration. For each channel CH1, CH2, CH3, and CH4 to which the attachment 43 is connected The same is done for each.

[0068] The relay section 66 connects a ground pad test relay 82 to one of the neutral electrode monitoring circuits. The ground pad test relay 82 is connected to the ground pad 36 and each Between the feedback of the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D, i.e., the second connection interface 44 3, and provides a redundant connection to the ground pad 36. The ground pad test relay 82 is Any suitable relay may be provided, such as a two-circuit relay. The IEC 60601-1 standard requires that the ground pad 35 or Monitors for faults in the connection to ground pad 35.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 7, four monopolar electrode attachments 43 (all of which are shown in the example of FIG. 4) are provided. That is, a parallel bipolar amplifier relay control section 6 using electrodes E1 to E4 In this example, four monopolar electrode attachments 43 are Although connected to the connection interface 42, each monopolar electrode pair is in a parallel bipolar configuration. In this configuration, a pair of adjacent monopolar electrodes is connected to the first channel pair. Used in conjunction across CH1 / CH2 and the second channel pair CH3 / CH4, two bipolar As described below, the control console 30 controls each electrode attachment. Port 43 is monopolar and therefore can function in a parallel bipolar configuration. It is possible to detect the presence of such a monopolar electrode in parallel with the monopolar configuration. The choice between a bipolar configuration can be selected using the GUI 52. Ground Pad 36 does not need to be utilized in a parallel bipolar configuration, and therefore the ground pad relay 8 0A to 80D are opened, thereby opening the second connection interface 44 and each Each RF amplifier return relay 78A-78D is disconnected. Parallel bipolar configuration In this case, the relay section 66 is instead implemented with parallel bipolar relays 84A-84D (Fig. 7, only 84A and 84C are shown) are used to activate each parallel The bipolar relays 84A to 84D are used as feedback for the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D of one channel. , connected between the first connection interface 42 of the adjacent channel and the crossover to the connection For example, in FIG. 7, RF amplifier 68A outputs an RF output signal through CH1, The parallel bipolar relay 84A has the same RF amplification at the first connection interface 42. The return of the transformer 68A is closed to connect to CH2. Therefore, the electrical path is A wire is connected between the electrodes connected to H1 and CH2, thereby forming a parallel bipolar current. In FIG. 7, CH3 and CH4 are connected to their respective channels. CH3 and CH4 are used to create a second parallel bipolar pair with electrodes connected to each other. For the parallel bipolar relay 84C, the parallel bipolar relays for CH1 and CH2 are Relay 84A operates in the same manner. Thus, in the configuration of FIG. 7, two DC power sources 72A, Only 72B and two RF amplifiers 68A, 68B are connected to the four channels CH1, CH2, It is used with H3, CH4 and four monopolar electrodes.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 8, two electrode monopolar attachments 43 (i.e., E2 and E3 Explain the operation of the amplifier relay control section 62 in a parallel bipolar configuration in which The parallel bidirectional amplifier of FIG. 7, which utilizes channels CH1 / CH2 or CH3 / CH4 for each pair, Unlike the Polar example, in the example of FIG. 8, the electrode attachments are on channels CH2 and CH3. Therefore, the control console 30 and the amplifier relay control section 62 are connected to In addition to the strict CH1 / CH2 or CH3 / CH4, other channel pairs can be parallel bipolar. In this configuration, a pair of adjacent monopolar electrodes is The two channels are used together to generate the laser lesion. As in 7, a parallel bipolar relay 84B is used as the accelerating relay (instead of relays 84A and 84C). This allows the RF output signal feedback to cross over CH3, which This allows for parallel bipolar electrodes connected to CH2 and CH3. The parallel bipolar relays 84A to 84D are parallel bipolar configuration channels. Other combinations of channels, e.g. CH1 / CH3, CH2 / CH4, CH1 / CH4 If these channels are adjacent to each other, crossovers can be possible. It will be appreciated that the adjacent portions may be adjacent or non-adjacent. provides the control console 30 with the ability to dynamically accommodate a variety of parallel bipolar connections; This provides further convenience to the user.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 9, four separate self-grounding electrode attachments as shown in the example of FIG. Explains the operation of the amplifier relay control section 62 in a bipolar self-grounded configuration with 43 The bipolar self-grounding electrode attachment 43 is connected to the first connection interface 42. The ground pad 36 does not need to be utilized and therefore the second connection interface Each of the channels CH1 to CH4 is not connected to the first connection interface 44. A self-connecting relay 42 is connected between each of the RF amplifier return relays 78A-78D. More specifically, the self-ground relays 86A to 86D of each of the channels CH1 to CH4 are provided. The grounding relays 86A to 86D are the same as the self-grounding relays 86A to 86D. The first interface connection 42 of each of the channels CH1 to CH4 is connected to a terminal. The self-grounding relays 86A to 86D provide a return path to the same channel that provided the RF signal output. Each self-grounding relay 86A~ is activated only for the few configurations that require it. 86D is a switch provided by the controller 60 and / or the relay section 66 Each self-grounding link is controlled by a grounding signal and can be of any suitable type. When relays 86A-86D are closed, a self-grounded bipolar structure as shown in FIG. For example, for simplicity, let us assume that one of the channels, i.e. 9, for CH1, the RF output signal is output from RF amplifier 68A, Through the amplifier output relay 76A, through the CH1 output of the first connection interface 42 The RF output signal is connected to CH1, thereby exiting the control console 30. After being passed to the self-grounding electrode attachment 43, the RF output signal is After the action, it passes again through the tip of the same self-grounding electrode attachment 43 and the first inter- through the interface connection 42 (not the second interface connection 44 of the ground pad 36) From here, the RF output signal passes through self-grounding relay 86A to the RF amplifier feedback. This process passes through the RF relay 78A and finally returns to the RF amplifier 68A of CH1. The electrodes 43 are connected to respective electrodes 43 that are operated in a self-grounding configuration. The same process is carried out for each of the channels CH1, CH2, CH3, and CH4.

[0072] Those skilled in the art will recognize that FIGS. 6-9 are monopolar configurations, parallel bipolar configurations, or self-grounded configurations. It is understood that the present invention is intended to provide some examples of bipolar configurations. Depending on the type of electrode configuration utilized, whether simultaneously or separately, the present specification utilizing additional or alternative relays other than those described and illustrated herein; Implement each of the monopolar, parallel bipolar, or self-grounded bipolar configurations. In other words, for simplicity, monopolar configurations, parallel bipolar configurations, and self-grounded bipolar configurations are illustrated throughout the figures. The relay configuration may be any of the configurations not described herein, but may be any of the configurations shown in the combined teachings of FIGS. This can be understood from the following:

[0073] For the illustrated example, the RF output signal is described as being singular, but in reality it may be It is possible to provide a plurality of RF output signals from each of the RF amplifiers 68A-68D. It will be appreciated that one or more of these respective RF amplifiers 68A-68D may be The above RF output signals can be similar, i.e., repeating, or mutually exclusive. In addition, the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D may be the same. RF output signals can be generated or can be different from each other. In addition, for ease of explanation, the RF output signal is However, the characteristics of each of the RF output signals may be altered in response to application of the RF output signal to the treatment site of patient P. It will be understood that the returned RF output signal may therefore differ from the original RF output signal. There are cases.

[0074] Having provided an overview of electrosurgical system 20, specific features of electrosurgical system 20 will now be described. Features, methods, and techniques are detailed.

[0075] [II. Multiple Amplifier Time Slicing Technique] As shown in FIGS. 6 to 9, the control console 20 includes a plurality of RF amplifiers 68A to 68D. Each of the plurality of RF amplifiers 68A-68D is provided with a DC power supply 72A-72D. Each channel CH1 to CH4 has its own independent output level control. Control is made possible by this configuration. Each RF amplifier 68A-68D has its own dedicated The power is provided by a dedicated adjustable DC power supply 72A-72D. With adjustable power supply, each channel CH1-CH4 can be powered at its individual treatment site. Depending on the clinical condition, the voltage levels of the RF amplifiers 68A-68B may be optimized. This makes it possible.

[0076] The configuration of the multiple RF amplifiers 68A to 68D is a single amplifier that is simultaneously applied to multiple channels. Moreover, the PWM signals 91, 93, for example, and a variable control signal from each of the DC power supplies 72A-72D to each of the RF amplifiers 68A-68D. By utilizing a variable voltage signal, the non-simultaneous energy supply of the multiple RF amplifiers 68A to 68D can be achieved. This technique allows for a technique to provide energy supply time slices to multiple channels. must be switched repeatedly to achieve the non-simultaneous time-sliced ​​outputs of This provides a significant advantage over a single amplifier with a small RF output relay. The amplifier configuration does not provide much time to regulate the power supply to a single amplifier, and The amplifier configuration, as described herein, includes a self-grounded bipolar electrode attachment. The NI 8111 is not equipped to handle the switching speeds required by Port 43.

[0077] In one example, RF output relays 76, 78, 80, 84, 86 (FIGS. 6-9) are The output side of the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D can be configured before the start of active RF output. These relays 76, 78, 80, 84, 86 in the Ideally, these relays 76, 78, 80, 84, and 86 have a resistance of R It is preferred that relays 76, 78, 80, and 81 are not reconfigured during F treatment. 84, 86 are used to measure unwanted feedback through some of the channels CH1-CH4 during the course of treatment. There may be situations where these relays 76, 78, 8 0, 84, and 86 are for activation of the corresponding RF amplifiers 68A to 68D. The inputs of the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D can be controlled without being restricted by the The switching of the control signal on the output side is performed by a controller 60, such as a FET. This can be achieved by using a signal level control device that controls the relays 76, 78. , 80, 84, and 86 for switching, providing near instantaneous switching. Such switching can be achieved by using techniques such as PWM to control the RF amplifier 68. This can be done by driving the FET that controls the control signals to A to D. The controller 60 controls the switching and adjustment of the DC supply voltage and the time of the DC power supplies 72A-72D. , multiple RF amplifiers 68 at rates much higher than previously possible. For example, the four channels CH1 to CH4 can be Each channel uses a 125 millisecond time slot, and each channel CH1 to CH4 transmits RF Instead of cycling on for 5 ms and then off for 375 ms , much shorter time slots and much higher switching rates are possible.

[0078] The sensitivity of motor nerves to electrical activity is greatest at approximately 2 Hz, and the stimulation frequency increases with frequency. In some regions, it decreases as you move away from 2 Hz. Sensory nerve sensitivity to electrical activity is maximum at approximately 50 Hz, and increases as the stimulation frequency moves away from 50 Hz in the frequency domain. The input control signal between the RF amplifiers 68A-68D at a very high rate Signal switching can be easily accomplished using the techniques described herein. By switching between channels CH1 to CH4 at a rate exceeding 2Hz, The techniques described herein are directed to preventing the inadvertent and unwanted effects that occur as a result of nerve injury processes. Reduces the possibility of unwanted neuromuscular stimulation. Channel CH1 at rates well above 50Hz By switching between CH4 and CH5, the techniques described herein can The likelihood of unwanted stimulation of motor or sensory nerves is reduced.

[0079] A further advantage of this method is that the relatively long off-time cycling of each channel CH1-CH4 The off-time (e.g., 375 ms) is reduced, thereby allowing the injury site to reach a therapeutic temperature. Occasional problems that make it difficult to heat the device in a cost-effective manner require be mitigated in an adaptive manner.

[0080] Thus, in one example, an energy A plurality of RF amplifiers 68A-6 each dedicated to deliver a The control console 30 configured with the RF amplifier 68A is A control signal is generated to individually and independently control each input of the 68D. The signal can be sequentially applied to each of the RF amplifiers 68A-68D one at a time. Then, the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D transmit energy to the corresponding channels CH1 to CH4. This enables the generation of an RF output signal that

[0081] As shown in FIG. 10, the respective PWM controls are applied to the inputs of the RF amplifiers 68A-68D. The application of control signals 91A-91D and 93A-93D is shown. During a series of time slots reserved for different ones of the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D The control signals 91 and 93 are sequentially applied to the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D. In FIG. 10, a schematic diagram showing this sequence of application of control signals 91, 93 is shown, as an example, in more detail. Specifically, the four monopolar electrodes shown in Figure 3 are provided as an example of the RF amplification. Energization of electrodes E1-E4 from RF output signals provided by amplifiers 68A-68D is expected. However, FIG. 10 illustrates the application of these RF power signals at each electrode attachment 43. Instead, the schematic of FIG. 10 shows only the RF It involves the application of control signals 91, 93 to the inputs of amplifiers 68A-68D.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 10, the time slots are identified as slots 1 through 4. Time slot 1 is reserved for RF amplifier 68A and time slot 2 is reserved for RF amplifier 68B. Time slot 3 is reserved for RF amplifier 68C, and time slot 4 is reserved for RF amplifier 6 8D. Control signals 91A, 93A are provided to RF amplifier 68 during time slot 1. A are controlled individually and independently, and control signals 91B and 93B are used to control the RF amplifier during time slot 2. The control signals 91C and 93C control the amplifiers 68B individually and independently during time slot 3. The control signals 91D and 93D are time slots for controlling the RF amplifiers 68C individually and independently. In this example, RF amplifier 68D is individually and independently controlled during timeslot 1 and 2. 4 is divided equally among RF amplifiers 68A to 68D.

[0083] As shown in the figure, these respective control signals 91, 93 are D are applied sequentially, one at a time. The controller 60 controls the The application of the control signals 91 and 93 of 68A to 68D is performed in a time slot reserved for other RF amplifiers. For example, the controller 60 may stop the RF amplifiers 68B to 68D during the During the time slots 2 to 4, the control signals 91A and 93A are applied to the RF amplifier 68A. Therefore, the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D are controlled non-simultaneously. The energy supply between channels CH1 to CH4 is also asynchronous.

[0084] The period T is determined by the sum of time slots 1 to 4. In other words, time slot 1 to 4 are combined to determine the period T. The period T can be expressed in milliseconds or seconds. This sequence can be repeated as necessary throughout treatment, as shown in Figure 10. Yes, when the sequence resets, a new period T begins.

[0085] In this example, four time slots are used for four different RF amplifiers 68A-68D. is utilized, however, any suitable number of time slots may be utilized; and It will be appreciated that the number of time slots does not have to be the same as the number of RF amplifiers 68A-68D. For example, each time slot can be divided into two, so that Therefore, the number of time slots of each RF amplifier 68A to 68D during the period T can be doubled. Furthermore, the time slots do not have to be equally divided among the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D. For example, each of RF amplifiers 68A and 68B may be provided with a time domain having one-sixth of the period T. While the lot can be allocated, the RF amplifiers 68C and 68D each receive a third period T. In addition, each control signal 91 can be allocated to a time slot having one of the following: , 93 for any given time slot of any given RF amplifier 68A-68D. It can be applied once or multiple times for maximum efficiency. Each control signal 91, 93 occupies the entirety of each respective time slot. On the other hand, in some cases, the respective control signals 91, 93 can alternatively be For any given RF amplifier 68A-68D, the total number of each of the respective timeslots is Thus, the control signals 91, 93 can be adjusted depending on the It is possible to have a tea cycle.

[0086] Furthermore, the illustration of FIG. 10 may vary depending on a variety of factors. For example, the control signals 91 and 93 shown in FIG. 10 are substantially the same for each of the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D. However, some or all of the control signals 91, 93 may alternatively be For example, the voltage, amplitude, frequency, phase, duration, etc. can be different from each other. In addition, the sequence shown in FIG. 10 can be arranged based on the reference numbers of the RF amplifiers 68A to 68D. Alternatively, the sequence of application of the control signals 91, 93 is , different ordering, for example 68D, 68A, 68C, 68B, and adjacent The RF amplifiers 68A to 68D are not necessarily controlled in sequence. The control signal provided from 72 is, as shown in the figure, the PWM signal 9 in Figs. It can be time sliced ​​sequentially in the same way as time slices 1 and 93.

[0087] Moreover, the diagram of the control signals 91-93 is different for a parallel bipolar configuration. For example, FIG. 11 shows an example for the parallel bipolar configuration of FIG. 4, with time slots 1 and 2 is reserved for RF amplifier 68A, and time slots 3 and 4 are reserved for RF amplifier 68C. The control signals 91A and 93A are used to generate RF output signals for parallel bipolar energization. Thus, RF amplifiers 68A are individually and independently controlled during time slot 1. 1A, 93A further controls RF amplifier 68A during time slot 2 to provide an RF output signal The RF output signal from the parallel bipolar pair is fed back to the RF amplifier 68A. By switching the relay in race section 66 to establish the proper return path, Similarly, control signals 91C and 93C are provided to control RF amplifier 68C to a second parallel balanced time slots to enable generation of RF output signals for energizing the bipolar pairs. The RF amplifier 68C is controlled separately and independently between 3 and 4. The RF output signal is similarly In this example, time slots 1 to 4 are fed back to RF amplifier 68C. 8A, 68C. Application of control signals 91, 93 for parallel bipolar configuration Other configurations are possible according to the variations described above.

[0088] FIG. 12 shows a diagram of the control signals 91, 93 for the self-grounded bipolar configuration of FIG. In the 1000MHz, the time slots are doubled to accommodate faster switching in self-grounded configurations. Time slots 1 and 2 are reserved for RF amplifier 68A, and time slots 3 and Time slots 4 are reserved for RF amplifier 68B, and time slots 5 and 6 are reserved for RF amplifier 68C. and time slots 7 and 8 are reserved for RF amplifier 68D. enables RF amplifier 68A to generate an RF output signal for self-grounded bipolar power supply. RF amplifier 68A is individually and independently controlled during timeslots 1 and 2 so that This RF output signal is sent to a self-grounded bipolar electrode during time slot 1. During time slot 2, the self-grounded bipolar electrode is fed back. The RF output signal feedback from the polar electrodes switches the relays in relay section 66. This is done by establishing an appropriate feedback path by controlling the control signals 91A and 93A. , are applied consecutively between these two slots. This process continues until the remaining RF amplification In this example, time slots 1-8 are The control signal 91 of the self-grounded bipolar configuration is divided equally between the amplifiers 68A to 68D. Other configurations for the application of 93 are possible according to the variants described above. Furthermore, the control signal 10 to 12, the control signal may be different from that shown in FIG. Any given one of 8A to 68D may be different from each other, and various It will be appreciated that the power supply voltages for the various RF amplifiers 68A-68D may vary. There will be.

[0089] According to the switching technique described herein, each of the channels CH1 to CH4 is It has an output that cycles at a frequency of F Hertz, where F is equal to 1 / T. T is the period mentioned above. The frequency F is greater than the motion stimulus sensitivity of 2 Hz and / or is greater than the sensory sensitivity of 50 Hz. However, once anesthesia is applied to the target site, Eliminate the need to provide frequencies greater than the motor or sensory sensitivity when In one embodiment, the frequency F is in a defined range from 12.5 Hz to 2500 Hz. The period T is within the range of 0.0004 seconds to 0.08 seconds. For example, If the time slots of channels CH1 to CH4 are 100 microseconds, the period T is 400 The channel cycling frequency F is 2500 Hz. If the time slots of CH1 to CH4 are 0.02 seconds, the period T is 0.08 seconds. , the channel cycling frequency F is 12.5 Hz. A frequency of 12.5 Hz is 2 The 2500 Hz frequency exceeds the sensitivity of the motor stimuli of 50 Hz, and the 2500 Hz frequency is Therefore, the patient is not likely to experience unwanted and inadvertent neuromuscular motor stimulation and sensitivity. The frequency F can be either below or above the ranges mentioned above. It is understood that inadvertent neuromuscular motor and sensory stimulation can still be avoided. It will be understood that the above calculations are based on four channels CH1 to CH4. Of course, calculations can be performed and explained using more or fewer channels. The frequency F and period T can be varied from those given above depending on the configuration used. can be a value of

[0090] [III. Examples of cable accessories] The cable accessory 32 was introduced in the section above, but here the cable Examples of the attachment 32 are described in more detail below. The cable attachment 32 includes one or more electrode attachments. The control console 30 is connected to the communication unit 43. 0 is connected to one of the electrode attachments 43 through one or more channels CH1 to CH4. The device is configured to energize the above to perform RF nerve ablation.

[0091] Again, these electrode attachments 43 may be monopolar electrodes, parallel bipolar configurations, or any combination thereof. The device can have a monopolar electrode or a self-grounding bipolar electrode that is utilized in the construction of the device. A variety of these electrode attachments 43 can be connected to the control console 30. There are many different combinations. Examples of these combinations include up to four monopolys. polar electrodes, two parallel bipolar electrode pairs, four bipolar self-grounded electrodes, two mono polar electrode and one parallel bipolar electrode pair, two monopolar electrodes and two bipolar A self-grounding electrode, one parallel bipolar electrode pair and two bipolar self-grounding electrodes be.

[0092] The connection of these electrode attachments 43 can be performed in various combinations of channels CH1 to CH4. Cable accessories 3 can be either for one or for all three or for any combination. 2, as the combination of electrode attachments 43 is changed, for example, between uses. Burdensome connection and disconnection of the electrode attachment 43 between the channels CH1 to CH4 For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the parallel bipolar transistors It is possible between CH3 / CH4, and also between CH2 / CH3 as shown in Figure 8. The parallel bipolar configuration is interleaved between CH1 / CH3 and CH2 / CH4. Various types of electrode attachments 43 and channels CH1 to CH4 All connection configurations are supported by the same cable attachment 32. The system architecture of the control console 30 is based on the enhanced system architecture identified above. Enables system capabilities.

[0093] As described below, electrode attachments 43 may be configured to authenticate their embedded electronics. The control console 30 features identification features within the sections. Certify the electrode attachment 43 as an approved accessory and indicate the electrode type (e.g., monopole The control console 30, the cable Accessories32 and automatic electrode identification allow true "plug and play" functionality. The control console 30 can be used to connect the electrode attachment 4 without the need to change the attachment cable. 3, which simplifies use and reduces usage errors. The possibility of this is reduced.

[0094] FIG. 13 shows an example cable attachment 32. The cable attachment 32 has a control The first interface 100 is configured to connect to the control console 30. The first interface 100 is a first connection interface of the control console 30 as shown in FIG. The first interface 100 is connected to the electrical interface 42 as shown in FIG. In one example, the first interface 100 is a connector 102 for connecting to a control console. In this example, only this single connector 102 is provided to simplify connection to the cable 30. , all the circuits that can be connected to the first connection interface 43 of the control console 30. The path configuration is routed through this single connector 102. The connector 102 is a male / female The first interface 100 is shown in FIG. Additionally, any other suitable connection means may be used to connect the first connection interface of the control console 30. The device can interface with a base 42.

[0095] The cable accessory 32 further includes a second interface 104 at an opposite end. The second interface 104 is adapted to accommodate a monopolar electrode attachment 43 and / or a bipolar electrode attachment 44. 1. Configured to connect to an electrode attachment 43, such as a self-grounding electrode attachment 43 In FIG. 13, the second interface 104 includes a plurality of electrical connectors 110A. ~110D, allowing up to four different electrode attachments43 and interfaces Each of the electrical connectors 110A to 110D is configured to interface with any one of the electrode adapters. Depending on whether the attachment 43 is connected to the electrical connectors 110A to 110D, One monopolar electrode attachment 43 or one bipolar self-grounding electrode attachment The connectors 110A to 110D are configured to be connected to the electrode attachment 43. The connector 40 of the component 40 is mechanically and electrically received to provide a stable mechanical and electrical connection. For the sake of simplicity, in FIG. 13, the second interface 4 One electrode attachment 43 is shown interfacing with electrical connector 110C of FIG. Although in this example, up to four electrode attachments 43 may be utilized.

[0096] In FIG. 13, the cable accessory 32 is, for example, a second interface 104 and a first interface 105. A housing for storing circuit configuration, wiring, cables, or terminals between the interface 102 The housing 106 may be provided for aesthetic purposes and may also be used to An electrical cable 108 may be provided for the convenience of the user. In this example, the second interface 106 is connected to the first interface 100. The face 104 is integrated into a housing 106 as shown in FIG. The configuration provides an easily accessible port at a distance from the control console 30. Any of the electrode attachments 43 can be connected to the cable attachment 32. As a result, the length of the cable 38 of the electrode attachment 43 can be potentially reduced. In another example, the first interface 100 may also be integrated into the housing 106. 108 , thereby reducing the length of the electrical cable 108 or It will be appreciated that complete removal of the cable attachment may be accomplished. The product 32 may be implemented without the housing 106. Instead, the second interface The first interface 104 can be bundled together using a cable management means. Other configurations between the interface 100 and the second interface 104 are also contemplated.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 13, the cable accessory 32 comprises a clip attached to the cable 108. The cable 10 may include a cable management means such as a clip 112. 8 and can be slidable along the length of the cable attachment 32 depending on the position of the cable attachment 32. The clip 112 may be attachable to an object in a sterile field or outside of a sterile field. may be attached directly to a surgical drape to make the second interface 104 accessible. Alternatively, the clip 112 may have a feature that secures the cable accessory 32 in place. Any suitable cable management means other than clips 112 is contemplated. can be obtained.

[0098] FIG. 14 shows the internal circuitry of one example of cable accessory 32. The cable attachment 32 is passive. This means that the cable attachment 32, e.g. Actively powered by a power source to energize active electrical or electronic components Instead, the cable attachment 32 is connected to the control console 30. It is configured to passively provide a suitable electrical path as required.

[0099] In FIG. 14, the first interface 100 is shown to the left of the box representing the cable accessory 32. Shown on the side are four separate connectors 110A-110D of the second interface 104. is shown to the right of the box representing the cable accessory 32. In this example, the first The interface 100 includes 30 conductive terminals (e.g., pins) and is connected to a second interface Each of the electrical connectors 110A to 110D of 104 has the same number of conductive terminals. The electrical connectors of the first interface 100 and the second interface 104 are six. Connectors 110A-110D may include any suitable number of electrical terminals or pins. In addition, the first interface 100 and the connectors 110A to The pin names of 110D may differ from the pin names shown in FIG.

[0100] In this example, output circuit paths 114A-114D each indicate which electrode attachment 43 Depending on which of the control consoles 20 is connected to the second interface 104, Each of the channels CH1 to CH4 is connected to a monopolar electrode attachment 43 or a bipolar electrode attachment 44. The first interface is connected to the self-grounding electrode attachment 43 for signal output. 100 and the second interface 104. More specifically, For the channels CH1 to CH4, the output circuit paths 114A to 114B are connected to the second interface. Pin 1 (RFA) of each of the connectors 110A to 110D of the first interface 104 is connected to Pins 1, 5, 9 and 16 (CH_Electrode Output) of base 100 The output circuit paths 114A to 114D are each defined between the parallel It can be used to transmit RF output signals in either a bipolar or bipolar self-grounded configuration. This can be done.

[0101] Cable accessory 32 to accommodate bipolar self-grounding electrode attachment 43 Advantageously, the first interface 100 and the second interface 104 are connected to each other. The connected feedback circuit paths 116A-116D are provided to, in particular, From the attachment 43, each channel of the control console 30 that provided the RF output signal More specifically, for each channel CH1 to CH4, The feedback circuit paths 116A to 116 are connected to the connectors 110A of the second interface 104. ~110D pin 4 (RFB) and the first interface 100 pins 4, 8, 12 and 1 3 (CH_Electrode Self Gnd) respectively.

[0102] In general, in the case of monopolar and parallel bipolar configurations, the RF output signal is fed back. Therefore, it is not necessary to use the feedback circuit paths 116A to 116D to The return circuit paths 116A-116D are dedicated to a bipolar self-grounded configuration. For example, as explained in the above section, the ground pad 36 is The output signal is then absorbed so that the RF output signal is transmitted to the control console 30 via a cable attachment. 32, the power is returned through the ground pad 36 assembly. In the specification, the terms “output” and “feedback” are used to describe the circuit paths 114, 116. However, the signal passing through these paths may be any of the paths 114, 116. The current flow direction through any given one of the two inputs can be alternating. It will be appreciated that the signal can therefore be fed back through output circuit path 114. and / or may be output through a feedback circuit path 116. Thus, the terms "output" and "feedback" are used for simplicity and do not refer to the direction of current flow. It is not intended to be limiting.

[0103] In a parallel bipolar mode, two monopolar electrode attachments 43 are used together. In this case, the RF output signal is output to another connector 110A-110D of the second interface 104. The feedback is through pin 1 (RFA) of the parallel bipolar transistor. 4, the RF output signal is fed to two monopolar The RF output signal can be output to a first one of the electrode attachments 43. exiting pin 1 (RFA) of the second interface connector 110B, passing through the target site; It then returns through pin 1 (RFA) of the second interface connector 110A. The RF output signal is returned along circuit path 114A to the first interface (pin 1). Thus, the term "output" is used to describe output circuits 114A-114D. However, these circuits 114A-114D may be used in various configurations depending on whether a parallel bipolar configuration is utilized. It will be understood that the present invention can be used for signal output or signal feedback accordingly. This feedback circuit path of the parallel bipolar (e.g., RFA, circuit 114) is a self-grounded bipolar This is different from the feedback circuit path 116 in a bipolar configuration.

[0104] In FIG. 14, each of the second interface connectors 110A to 110D is an electrode attachment. The pair of terminals (pin 2, TC+ and pin 3, TC-) that connect to the thermocouple (not shown) of the input More specifically, for each of the channels CH1 to CH4, a circuit path is Pins 2 and 3 (TC+, TC-) of connectors 110A to 110D and the first interface 10 An example of such a thermocouple is given in the IEEE 802.11b on October 7, 2014. "Electrode Assembly with Separate Bipolar Cannula and Supply Electrode" This patent is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,852,182, entitled "Polymer-Based Electrodes for Use in a Compressed Liquid Crystal Display." The entire contents of the disclosure are incorporated herein by reference. Through the attachment 32, the controller 60 transmits signals to the thermocouples of the electrodes E1 to E4, These thermocouples feed back signals. The fed back signals include temperature measurements and temperature feeds. The back loop is analyzed by the controller 60 .

[0105] Referring again to FIG. 2 and FIG. 13, the electrode attachment 43 is a non-volatile memory device. Memory such as nonvolatile memory (NVM) or erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) The memory device 120 is disposed in the electrode assembly 34, in a cable. Any suitable location for the electrode attachment 43, such as within the lead 38 or within the connector 40. In the example shown in FIG. 13, the memory device 120 can be arranged in in the connector 40 to provide a short electrical path between the sensor 120 and the control console 30. As will be described in a later section, the memory device of each electrode assembly 43 120 stores information about the electrode assembly 43, such as identification data, usage data, and authorization / authentication data. The data stored in the memory includes data relating to the

[0106] From the memory device 120 of each electrode attachment 43 connected to the cable attachment 32 Commands to read data from and / or write data to memory device 120 To facilitate the transmission of The terminal pair (pin 5 of the NVM data and NVM ground at pin 6). More specifically, each of the channels CH1 to CH4 has Regarding pins 5 and 6 (NVM data, NVM ground) of each connector 110A to 110D, A circuit path is defined between the pins of the first interface 100. 120 is cycled off and on via an NVM data signal from the control console 20. It may be desirable to retrieve the stored information even after it has been cycled.

[0107] 2, 13 and 14, the cable attachment 32 also includes an NVM or EPROM. The memory device 128 may include a housing. For cable accessories 32, such as in ring 106, cable 108, or connector 102. The memory device 1 may be located in any suitable position to accommodate the memory device 1. 28 provides a short electrical path between the memory device 128 and the control console 30. The cable accessory 32 is located in the connector 102 at the first interface 102 for The memory device 128 also stores data such as identification data, usage data, and authorization / authentication data. For example, the memory device 128 may include a memory device 128 that stores data related to the cable accessory 32. associated with one or more electrode attachments 43 connected to the second interface 104 The memory device 128 can be configured to store the identification data. The amount of cable attachment 32 used by the sole 30 and / or the number of electrode attachments and configured to store usage data relating to usage of the cable accessory 32 by the interface 43. Additionally or alternatively, the memory device 128 may be configured as a cable attachment 3 2, electrode attachment by the control console 20 43 and / or authorization of use of cable accessory 32 by control console 30. Such a memory device 128 is configured to store associated authentication data. Further details about this data are provided in a later section.

[0108] Reading and / or storing data from the memory device 128 of the cable accessory 32 To facilitate sending a command to write data to the device 128, a first interface The first interface 100 is connected to the control console 30. The terminal pair connecting the memory device 128 to the controller 60 (the cable NVM device on pin 28) The NI 6110 has an isolated ground for pin 30 and an isolated input for pin 31.

[0109] The cable attachment 32 in Figure 14 connects pin 27 (GPIO detect) and pin 29 (isolated ground). provides the additional feature that the first A short circuit located anywhere between the interface 100 and the second interface 104 This can be achieved by shorting these pins. The controller 60 of the device 30 is connected to the first interface 100 of the control console 30. When connected to the first connection interface 42, a circuit inside the control console 30 is closed. The internal circuitry of the control console 30 is configured via the shorted pins. The device is equipped with pull-up resistors etc. that allow some signals to be detected when the circuit is closed. The detected signal can be recognized by the controller 60, In response, the controller 60 checks whether the cable attachment 32 is securely connected to the control console 30. The control console 30 is configured to recognize that a cable attachment 32 are connected using other means such as active communication, data transmission, proximity detection, etc. It will be understood that it is possible to recognize that

[0110] Next, another example of a cable accessory 32' will be described with reference to FIG. 15. However, the cable accessory 32' of FIG. Components or features similar to the cable attachment will not be repeated for the sake of brevity.

[0111] FIG. 15 shows the internal circuitry of this example of cable accessory 32'. The cable attachment 32' is active, which means that, as will be described below, the cable attachment 32' but may be connected to a power source, for example, to energize active electrical or electronic components therein. In other words, the cable attachment 32' is The supplied power is used to power several components as needed by the console 30. The device is configured to provide a suitable electrical path by

[0112] The cable accessory 32' in FIG. 15 includes a first interface 100 and a second interface The circuitry is connected between the interface 104 and the circuitry shown in FIG. The configuration is similar to that of the first interface 100, except that the switch device 130 is The switch device 130 is further connected between the first interface 104 and the second interface 105. One or more of a plurality of electrical path configurations between the base 100 and the second interface 104. 43, thereby connecting one or more of the electrode attachments 43 described and the control The control circuit 21 is controlled to correspond to the interconnection between one or more channels CH1 to CH4 of the console 20. It is possible.

[0113] In FIG. 15, the switch device 130 is configured to switch each of the first circuit paths 114A to 114D. A first relay arranged in series with each of the first (output) circuit paths 114A to 114D for opening and closing the The switch device 130 includes the second circuit paths 132A to 132D. 116A-116D, in series with each second (feedback) circuit path 116A-116D. In some examples, the first relay 134A-134D may be arranged in a Only the first relays 132A to 132D can be provided, and the second relays 134A to 134D can be provided. In another example, only the second relays 134A to 134D may be provided, and the first relays 134A to 134D may be provided. In another example, in order to reduce the circuit configuration, the relays 132A to 132D are not provided. A common first relay unit includes the functions of all the first relays 132A to 132D. A second common second relay unit can be configured to control all the second relays 134A to 134B. It can encompass the functions of 34D.

[0114] The switch device 130 includes a first interface 100 and a second interface 104. In one example, the switch device 130 is A case that accommodates the first relays 132A to 132D and the second relays 134A to 134D. The housing 106 of the cable attachment 32 is disposed therein.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 15, the first relays 132A to 132D and the second relays 134A to 134D are Each of the 34Ds has pins 17 (8 channel GPIO), 22 (12V power) and 2 9 (isolated ground) to the first interface 100. Again, these pins The pin numbers may differ from those shown in Figure 15. In one example, As shown in FIG. 16 showing an example, first relays 132A to 132D and second relays 132A to 132D are connected to each other. Each of 34A to 134D is a relay circuit 136 which is a relay circuit of an inductor L in this example. The relay circuit 136 may include a switch S for magnetically opening and closing the switch S. Each relay 132, 134 is an inductor L configured as follows. The 8-channel GPIO pins are connected to a transistor 138. The high side of the inductor L is connected to the controller 60 The low side of the inductor L is connected to the 12V isolated power supply provided continuously by FE The drain of FET 138 is connected to the source of T138. The first relay 132A to 132C are connected to an insulated ground that is fed back to the controller 60 in the 2D, the switch S is connected to each channel in the first interface 100. The electrode output pins (1, 5, 9, 13) of CH1 to CH4 and their respective second interfaces The circuit between the RFA pin (1) in the base connectors 110A to 110D is opened / closed. For the second relays 134A to 134D, the switch S is connected to the first interface 1. The electrode self-ground pins (4, 8, 12, 1 6) and the RFB in each of the second interface connectors 110A to 110D The controller 60 opens / closes the circuit between the relays 132, 134 and pin (4). When it determines that the inductor L should be closed / open, it switches FE Control the 8-channel GPIO pins on the gate of the T138 and close switch S / It is understood by those skilled in the art that the circuitry is closed / open to allow the signal to operate. Various other relay configurations are possible other than those specifically described herein. You can see that.

[0116] Using these techniques, the controller 60 controls the switch device 130 to The type of electrode attachment 43 being used (e.g., monopolar, self-grounding bipolar, ra) and the mode in which the electrode attachment(s) 43 are utilized (e.g. The device is configured to select from a variety of electrical path configurations based on the For example, the switch device 130 may be configured as a relay device as described with reference to FIGS. For example, the switch device 13 can be controlled to emulate any of the following: 0 interconnects the monopolar electrode attachment 43 with one channel of the control console. The power supply can be controlled to select an electrical path configuration adapted to connect to CH1. In this regard, for example, when the first relay 132A of CH1 is switched on, This can also be done by switching off the second relay 134A. Two monopolar electrodes operated in column bipolar mode are connected to the second interface connector, For example, if 110A and 110B (CH1 / CH2) are connected, The configuration 130 switches on the first relay 132A, 132B while switching on the second relay The electrodes 134A, 134B can be controlled to switch off. If the attachment 43 comprises, for example, a bipolar self-grounding electrode connected to CH1, In this case, the switch arrangement 130 switches the first relay 132A and the second relay 132B of CH1 These techniques use relays such as those shown in Figs. may be performed instead of or in addition to switching the relay in section 66. can.

[0117] 17 and 18, in yet another example of a cable accessory 32", a cable attachment To enable increased channeling capability of the component 32, the first relay 132 and the second relay The relays 134 are subject to time sliced ​​and / or continuous control by the controller 60 . In this example, the four channels CH1-CH4 from the control console 30 are still in use. However, the first relay 132 and the second relay 134 are connected to the respective channels CH1 to CH4. The two first relays 132 are doubled for CH1+ (i.e. The CH1 electrode output (pin 1) is connected to two second relays. -134 is CH- (i.e., CH1 electrode self-ground), 4) connected to pin 1. Splice the circuit from CH1+ and CH1- to The relays 132 and 134 can be connected to one first relay 132 and two second relays 134. presents the same configuration for CH2-CH4.

[0118] By providing this configuration, the cable accessory 32 is 18, the second interface 10 is doubled. 4, eight separate connectors 110A to 110H are provided. As shown, CH1 is doubled to produce a CH1 output and a CH5 output, and CH2 is doubled to generate CH2 and CH6 outputs, and This allows the cable attachment 32'' and ultimately the electrosurgical system 20 can accommodate twice as many electrode attachments 43. With the shared electrical pathway via ~CH4+ / - splicing, the configuration of Fig. 17 The time slicing and determining which of the first relay 132 and the second relay 134 are to be used This is made possible by sequentially activating and deactivating a few. In the example, RF amplifiers 68A to 68D for CH1 to CH4 are In this case, sequential and non-simultaneous time slices are used. is provided to the relays 132 , 134 of the switching arrangement 130 .

[0119] For example, if CH1 and CH5 have monopolar electrode attachments 43, CH One of the first relays 132 is connected to the primary CH1 time slice (20 ms). During one part (e.g. slice A of 10 ms), the CH One of the five second relays 134 relays the other portion of the primary CH1 time slice (e.g. For example, it is switched on during the other 10 ms slice B).

[0120] CH1 and CH5 have two monopolar transistors between them operating in a parallel bipolar configuration. When the electrode attachment 43 is connected, one of the first relays 132 of CH1 and one of the second relays 134 of CH5 is one of the main CH1 time slices. While the other first channel of CH1 is switched on for a portion (e.g., 10 ms) The relay 132 and the second relay 134 of CH5 are connected to the primary CH1 time slice. During the other portion (eg, the other 10 ms) it is switched on.

[0121] A bipolar self-grounding electrode attachment 43 is connected to CH1 and CH5. In this case, both first relays 132 of CH1 are in a state where the first relay 132 of CH1 is ... (e.g. 10 ms) while the second relay 13 of CH5 is switched on 4 for the other portion of the primary CH1 time slice (e.g., the other 10 ms), is switched on.

[0122] The technique described for CH1 / CH5 is similar to that described for the remaining channels CH2 / C in FIG. The same can be done for H6, CH3 / CH7, and CH4 / CH8. , any type of time slice configuration or timing may be utilized. This includes, but is not limited to, the configurations described in Section II above. Again, these techniques are not intended to be used in relay sections as shown in Figures 6 to 9. This may be done instead of or in addition to switching the relay at 66. Additionally, the method of operating the cable accessories 32, 32', 32" is described herein as This is supported by the

[0123] [IV. Stimulus and Impedance Verification and Calibration Techniques] Referring to FIG. 19, the stimulus signal and impedance provided by the control console 30 are Techniques for validation and / or calibration of the stimulus signals are provided. The signals include sensory stimulation signals and motor stimulation signals.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 19, the components of the controller 60 and relay section 66 will first be introduced. The technique is explained by introducing the following components: The controller 60 includes a microcontroller 200, a digital / analog A logarithmic converter (DAC) 202, a sensing circuit 204, a stimulus (motor or sensory) generator (STIM V(+) 206 and STIM(V-) 208), Impedance generator (210 representing impedance Z(+) and 210 representing impedance Z(-) 212), and a multiplexing circuit 214. In the example, the microcontroller 200 may include an impedance converter network analyzer. An IC, however, the microcontroller 200 may have other configurations.

[0125] The stimulus generators 206, 208 are each configured to output and feedback a stimulus signal. Each of the impedance generators 210 and 212 outputs an impedance signal. , and is configured to provide feedback. 202, the stimulus generators 206, 207 are connected to generate respective stimulus signals and impedance signals. 08 and impedance generators 210, 212.

[0126] In one example, the stimulation signal is a biphasic DC signal and the impedance signal is an AC signal. In one example, the stimulus signal is fed through the DAC202 in a range of + / - 0.0 volts to a maximum of + / - 1 The impedance measurement signal has an adjustable amplitude of, for example, 30KH is a controlled output impedance AC signal having a frequency of z and an amplitude of 0.5 volts. The controller 60 or the microcontroller 200 addresses the DAC 202. The DAC202 interfaces to a Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) bus. Provides software controlled output waveforms with amplitude range of + / - 10 volts DC. It is configured to:

[0127] The software on the controller 60 or microcontroller 200 controls the DAC 202 The present invention provides a method for directly controlling the operation of the sensory nerve stimulation signal and the motor nerve stimulation signal. The output of the DAC202 provides improved waveform slew rate and current limit control. The buffered signal from the DAC202 is then forwarded through a buffer amplifier to provide The filtered output is then routed to a 100 kHz accelerometer for multiplexing the stimulation waveform signal with the impedance measurement signal. The signal is forwarded via path 214.

[0128] A sensing circuit 204 is provided for the stimulus signal, and in one example, the microcontroller 20 0 and a current sensing resistor. A second sensing circuit is provided on the impedance signal so as to sense the impedance of the input signal.

[0129] Additional components of the relay section 66 implementing this technique are also shown in FIG. Specifically, the relay section 55 is connected to the controller 60 and the first A stimulation / impedance output relay 216A connected between the connection interface 42 of 216D. This relay is connected to the cable attachment 32, if applicable. Each of the stimulation / impedance output relays 216A-216D is connected to the controller 60 and a first Configured to selectively switch on / off connection between the connection interface 42 For example, the switching on of each of the stimulation / impedance output relays 216A to 216D is The switching is not during RF output, but during the supply and / or dispensing of sensory or motor stimulation signals. During impedance measurement, each channel CH1, CH2, CH3, and CH4 is a control This can be done when utilized by the console 30. Stimulation / Impedance Output Link The relays 216A to 216D are controlled by the controller 60 and / or the relay section 66. The switching signal provided by the stimulation / impedance output relay 21 is controlled by the 6A-216D are inductive load drivers, reed relays, or any other suitable type of relay It can be said that:

[0130] The stimulation / impedance feedback relays 218A-218D are connected to the controller 60 and the ground pad. A second connection interface 44 of the control console 30 that connects to a connector 46 of the pad 36 Each of the stimulation / impedance feedback relays 218A-218D is connected between the second Selectively switch on / off the connection between the connection interface 42 and the controller 60 The stimulation / impedance output relays 216A to 216D are configured to Similarly, each of the stimulation / impedance feedback relays 218A to 218D is switched on. Switching is not performed during RF output, but during the supply and / or interruption of sensory or motor stimulation signals. During impedance measurement, each channel CH1, CH2, CH3, and CH4 is connected to the control console. This can be done when utilized by the stimulation / impedance feedback relay 30. 218A-218D are provided by the controller 60 and / or the relay section 66 The switching signal is controlled by the Stimulus / Impedance Feedback Relay 218A. .about.218D may be any suitable type of relay.

[0131] The above-mentioned ground pad relays 80A to 80D of the channels CH1 to CH4 are also implemented using this technique. The ground pad relays 80A to 80D are used in such a manner that the return path from the ground pad 36 is This is required during the supply of sensory or motor stimulation signals and / or impedance measurements. When each of the ground pad relays 80A to 80D is closed, the sense During stimulation or motor stimulation mode and / or impedance measurement, a closed circuit is formed. can be.

[0132] Switch on these relays 216, 218, and 80 of each channel CH1 to CH4. By this, STIM(V+) of the stimulus generator 206 and the first connection interface An output circuit path 220 is defined between the stimulus generator 206 and the first connecting interface 42. 42 to one or more electrode attachments 43. Similarly, between the second connection interface 44 and the STIM(V-) of the stimulus generator 208 A return circuit path 222 is defined between the one or more electrode attachments 43 and the ground pad 3. 6 and the second connection interface 44 to the stimulus generator 208. This process enables the electrode attachment 43 to operate in stimulation mode. The same is done for each connected channel CH1, CH2, CH3, CH4. can be.

[0133] The output circuit path 220 extends from the impedance Z(+) of the impedance generator 210 to the 1 through a connection interface 42 to one or more electrode attachments 43. Similarly, the feedback circuit path 222 may further enable the transmission of a feedback signal to one or more electrode The impedance is supplied from the attachment 43 through the ground pad 36 and the second connection interface 44. This allows feedback of the impedance signal to the impedance Z(-) of the impedance generator 212. This process begins when the electrode attachment 43 is connected to receive the impedance signal. The same is done for each connected channel CH1, CH2, CH3, CH4. .

[0134] As used herein, the terms “output” and “feedback” are used to describe circuit paths 220, 222. However, the signals passing through these paths are be an AC signal that can alternate the direction of current flow through any given It will be appreciated that the signal can therefore be routed through output circuit path 220 to It can be fed back and / or output through feedback circuit path 222. Therefore, the terms "output" and "feedback" are used for simplicity and do not refer to the current flow method. It is not intended to be limiting in any way.

[0135] The ground pad 36 is connected to the control console 30 for this technique, so that the relay Section 66 utilizes a ground pad test relay 82. As mentioned above, a low impedance The condition of the ground pad triggers the actuation of the ground pad test relay 82.

[0136] The relay section 66 is further provided with a calibration element 230. In one example, the calibration element Element 230 is a calibration resistor, such as a precision resistor. In one example, the calibration resistor is a low impedance The calibration element 230 has a rating of 246 ohms with a tolerance of, for example, ±0.1%. For example, the calibration element 230 may be a calibration capacitor, etc. Alternatively, the calibration element 230 may be a passive electrical component. Additionally, the calibration element 230 may be an active calibration device. It is also possible.

[0137] A calibration output circuit path 232 is provided between one end of the calibration element 230 and the output circuit path 220. A calibration feedback circuit path is provided between the other end of the calibration element 230 and the feedback circuit path 222. At least one calibration relay 236 is coupled to the calibration element 230 and the output circuit. 2. The calibration element 230 may be connected between the feedback circuit path 220 or between the calibration element 230 and the feedback circuit path 222. In FIG. 19, two calibration relays 236A, 236B are shown with their respective calibration circuit paths. 232, 234. Only one calibration relay 236 is used. However, for redundancy, two calibration relays 236A, 236B are provided to The calibration relay 236 can ensure proper connection or disconnection of the control by switching signals provided by controller 60 and / or relay section 66. The calibration relay 236 may be any suitable type of relay.

[0138] With continued reference to FIG. 19, relay section 66 is a ground pad stimulation / impedance The system further includes a ground pad stimulation / impedance feedback relay 242 and a ground pad stimulation / impedance feedback relay 240. The ground pad stimulation / impedance output relay 240 connects the output circuit path 220 to the ground pad. The ground pad is connected between the ground pad and one end of the test relay 82. The feedback relay 242 is connected to the other end of the ground pad test relay 82 and to the feedback circuit path 222. The output relay 240 and the feedback relay 242 are connected between the ground pad 36 is switched on to measure the impedance to the stimulus / impedance The impedance output relay 216 and the stimulation / impedance feedback relay 218 are switched on. When the power supply is turned on, it is generally switched off.

[0139] Next, using the components introduced above, we will develop the techniques for calibration and verification of stimulation and impedance. This calibration / verification technique, by way of example, is performed by the control console 30. The self-test is executed during the self-test program that is installed on the control console 30. The self-test may be performed at any suitable time, such as at the control console. It can also be performed while the rule 30 is running.

[0140] First, for impedance verification and calibration, the output relay associated with the calibration element 230 240 and feedback relay 242 are switched on. Impedance output relay 216 and stimulation / impedance feedback relay 218 control this process. Therefore, in this example, the calibration element 230 is switched off during This calibration step is used instead of measuring the impedance between the circuits. Perform impedance calibration and verification while performing patient-circuit impedance measurements. 216 and the stimulation / impedance feedback relay 217. The relay 218 is switched on.

[0141] The controller 60 controls the multiplexing circuit 214 to output the impedance generators 210, 212. Multiplexed to allow selective connection to the circuit path 220 and the feedback circuit path 222. The controller 60 controls the calibration circuit 214. The controller 60 transmits the test signal through the calibration element 230. and analyzing the test signal to ensure proper connection of the calibration element 230 to the circuitry. I acknowledge.

[0142] Once it has been determined that the calibration element 230 is properly connected, the impedance generator 2 10 changes impedance in response to a command from the controller 60 or the microcontroller 200. The impedance signal is output via output circuit path 220 and the calibration output circuit. The impedance signal passes through path 232. Calibration element 230 receives the impedance signal. Calibration element 230 If is a precision resistor, the impedance signal current passes through the precision resistor. By enabling the precision resistor to receive the impedance signal. After passing through the calibration element 230, the signal is fed back to the calibration feedback circuit path 234 and the feedback circuit path 22. 2 and is fed back to the impedance generator 212 through a multiplexing circuit 214.

[0143] The impedance signal is fed back to provide a reading or measurement that can be analyzed. A fixed value is obtained. Impedance sensing performed by the microcontroller 200 The circuit analyzes the readings relative to the fed back impedance signal to determine the impedance. The load may be purely resistive in terms of the precision resistor of the calibration element 230, or it may be impedance-impedance. The impedance load is configured to evaluate whether it further includes an inductive component and a capacitive component. If the impedance load is not purely resistive, an impedance sensing circuit (e.g. a The controller 200 is calibrated to compensate for the detected inductive and capacitive components. The microcontroller 200 can be configured to calibrate itself internally or Different components on the microcontroller 60 may command the calibration of the microcontroller 200. In one example, the calibration may involve adjusting the sensitivity of the sensing circuitry of the microcontroller 200. The calibration values ​​can be stored in the memory 56 and can be adjusted by the microcontroller 200. It is possible to formulate a best guess calibration. It is possible to implement the impedance sensing circuitry outside of the microcontroller 200 without It will be understood that

[0144] Calibration of the microcontroller 200 results in a purer impedance signal measurement. Therefore, the impedance measurement signal is improved to be accurate and reliable. Finally, when utilized during the motor or sensory stimulation modes, impedance sensing The circuit is verified and calibrated for proper operation. This reduces the patient-to-circuit impedance. This allows for more accurate measurement of both the stimulus waveform and the RF energy applied. The addition is done over a finite range of patient-to-circuit impedance values ​​(e.g., 38 ohms to 1800 ohms). Therefore, this technique is important because it provides accurate patient-to-circuit impedance measurements. -Provides dance measurements.

[0145] Next, we consider the validation and calibration of the motor or sensory stimuli. In the example, this is done after impedance verification and calibration. The output relay 240 and the feedback relay 242 are switched on or turned on. In one example, the stimulation / impedance output relay 216 and the stimulation / impedance The impedance feedback relay 218 is switched off during this process. Thus, in this example, the calibration element 230 is used for this calibration step rather than the patient stimulation. In an alternative example, the stimulation / impedance output relay 216 and the stimulation / impedance feedback relay The laser 218 allows calibration and validation of stimulation while the patient is undergoing motor or sensory stimulation. is switched on so that

[0146] In particular, the same calibration element 230 serves both impedance verification / calibration and stimulation verification / calibration. The controller 60 controls the multiplexing circuit 214 to control the impedance generator 210. , 212 to the stimulus generators 206, 208, The impulse generators 206, 208 may be connected to the output circuit path 220 and the feedback circuit path 222. Therefore, the impedance signal and the stimulus Signal multiplexing is performed to perform stimulation current sensing calibration. The utility is achieved by using this selectable circuit path through the calibration element 230 for stimulus verification. The test for proper connection of the calibration element 230 can be repeated or repeated. Based on successful testing during impedance calibration and verification

[0147] The stimulus generator 206 responds to commands from the controller 60 or the microcontroller 200. In response, the device outputs a stimulus signal. The stimulus signal is provided via output circuit path 220 and calibration output circuit path 23. 2. The calibration element 230 receives the stimulus signal. The calibration element 230 is a precision resistor. In some cases, high-frequency stimulation can be achieved by allowing the current of the stimulation signal to pass through a precision resistor. The precision resistor receives a stimulus signal that passes through a calibration element 230 and then a calibration feedback. Through circuit path 234 and feedback circuit path 222, through multiplexing circuit 214 to the stimulus generator Return to 208.

[0148] The stimulus signal is fed back to provide a reading or measurement that can be analyzed. Specifically, the stimulus detection circuit 204 is, in one example, The sense circuit 204 is implemented by a current sense resistor and a feedback control circuit 205. The stimulation sensing circuitry 204 is configured to analyze the associated readings. Due to the inherent difference between the impedance signal and the stimulation signal, In one example, the stimulus signal passes through a current sensing resistor in the sensing circuit 204, which This current reading is then converted into a corresponding voltage signal The controller 60 or the microcontroller 200 may, for example, determine The signal reading is compared to a predetermined value or range of values. Rate the following.

[0149] If the readings are not as expected, the sensing circuit 204 is calibrated. The controller 200 can be configured to calibrate itself internally or by a controller Different components on the 60 may also command the calibration of the microcontroller 200. In one example, the calibration involves changing the sensitivity value of the detection circuit 204. Calibration allows for highly accurate verification of the actual stimulation current value. Calibration values ​​are stored in memory 56. and can be analyzed to formulate a best guess calibration for the sensing circuit 204. This guaranteed stimulation feature is used to ensure that insufficient current is delivered to the patient during stimulation. By calibrating the sensing circuit 204, the stimulus signal can be detected when it is not present. The measurement and generation of is more accurate.

[0150] The controller 60 or microcontroller 200 analyzes the readings and generates a stimulus signal. The device may be further configured to determine whether a stimulation failure occurs during output of the signal. This technique advantageously confirms proper delivery of stimulation energy to the patient. Detects faults in electrical stimulation circuitry or stimulus waveform delivery circuitry that would otherwise go undetected This will also improve the physician's ability to provide advice based on impaired patient feedback. The likelihood of proceeding with the nerve ablation procedure is reduced.

[0151] The controller 60 performs the stimulation and impedance verification described herein. and communicating or displaying appropriate communications or messages regarding the status or results of the calibration technique. and configured to communicate with one or more processors 54 of the control console 30 to enable is.

[0152] The described verification and calibration techniques may be used with components other than those described herein. The steps of these techniques may be used in a variety of ways, although in a different order or manner than described. It may be performed in any sequence or manner that is functionally equivalent. It can also be estimated based on

[0153] [V. Accessory Identification, Odometer and Related Databases] Referring first to FIG. 2, the electrode attachment 43 and / or the cable accessory 32 may include a By processing the collected data and providing such data for display on the GUI52, Related techniques are described herein.

[0154] As mentioned above, the control console 32 includes a display 50, a controller 60, and The control console 32 includes one or more processors 54. The control console 32 includes a cable attachment 32 and a power It can directly receive the electrode attachment 43 or can be connected to the electrode attachment 43 (cable attached). a first connection interface 42 configured to directly receive the It further comprises:

[0155] As also mentioned above, and with reference to Figs. 2, 13 and 14, the electrode attachment 4 3 each include a memory device 120, and cable attachment 32 includes a memory device 128. These memory devices 120, 128 may be any suitable memory device, such as NVM or EPROM. The first connection interface 42 can be a memory of any type. The controller 60 of the attachment 30 and the memory device 120 of these attachments 32, 43 , 128, respectively.

[0156] In one example, sending data or reading data from the memory devices 120, 128 Sending commands to read and / or write data to the memory devices 120, 128 Each memory device 120, 128 is connected to a 1-wire communication protocol. Wire signal line (see, for example, CH_NVM data and cable NVM in Figure 14) and ground wire (See, for example, the insulated ground in FIG. 14.) A one-wire signal line can be connected by 5. Feedback to the controller 60 for analysis. Any other communication protocol or technique may be used to Connections between the control console 30 or controller 60 and the memory devices 120, 128 It is also possible to establish

[0157] As shown in FIG. 2, each of these memory devices 120, 128 according to one example Each of these attachments 32, 43 includes data associated with it. The memory devices 120, 128 contain various data fields. Only a few of the data fields, namely, identification data 300, usage data 302 And only the authentication data 304 is shown.

[0158] The identification data 300 identifies each attachment 32, 43 to the controller 60. The identification data 300 is data for identifying the attachment 32, 43. For example, the identification data 300 may include a data structure having various identification information. May include a name field that contains data identifying the type of attachment 32, 43 The part number field may contain part number data for attachments 32 and 43. The serial numbers of the attachments 32, 43 can be stored separately. These data can be used to curtail the use of attachments32,43. This means that data received from another source is stored in a specific attachment 32, 43. This may be necessary to inform the control console 30 that a A manufacturer field may also be provided that identifies the manufacturer of the attachment 32, 43. The Device Type data field specifies the type of attachment (e.g., Includes information about cable accessories, self-grounding bipolar, monopolar, etc. .

[0159] In the case of the electrode attachment 43, the usage data 302 is Such usage data 302 is collected by the control console. Usage of electrode attachment 43 with controller 30 (and any other control console), and / or or electrode attachment 4 with cable attachment 32 (and any other cable attachments) 3. For cable accessories 32, usage data 302 can be , the use of a cable attachment 32 with the control console 30 (or any other control console) and / or the amount of cable attachment 32 with the electrode attachment 43 connected thereto. Identify.

[0160] The usage data 302 regulates the operation of each attachment 32, 43. The components 32, 43 are reusable and / or sterilizable components. The attachment 302 is a maintenance overhaul or disposal This indicates the number of times it can be used before it is subject to disposal. Then, the electrodes E1 to E4 or the electrode attachment 43 are disconnected from the control console 30. The usage data 302 can capture the number of times the device has been used and therefore sterilized. There is also data showing the maximum total number of times each attachment 32 and 43 can be used. Each of these attachments 32, 43 may be configured for multiple uses. As designed, usage data 302 is recorded based on the amount of time each attachment 32, 43 is used. These are provided to prevent excessive use beyond the useful life of the device. Therefore, the usage data 302 may also be referred to as odometer data.

[0161] In one example, the usage data 302 structure includes a series of “n” bits, where “ "n" is the maximum value that can be counted. Initially, all of the data bits are This corresponds to an odometer value of 0. Each time a port 32, 43 is plugged into the control console 30, the counter is incremented by one. The first non-zero bit encountered in the data structure is decremented by one. 0. Odometer decoding is performed by the controller 60 after a cleared bit is The usage data 302 may include other data. , may be manipulated using techniques other than those described herein.

[0162] With regard to the authentication data 304, this relates to the authorization of the use of the attachment 32, 43. For example, only approved cable accessories 32 and electrode attachments 43 are available. may be utilized with an authorized control console 32, and vice versa. Similarly, only approved electrode attachments 43 may be used with approved cable accessories 32. Authentication data 304 can be used in conjunction with identity data and vice versa. For example, the part numbers of the attachments 32 and 43 are The number identifies the attachment 32, 43 to the control console 30 with respect to the registry. The authentication data 304 may be used in conjunction with a particular component. Also include data listing part numbers of associated components which may or may not be used. Another function of the authentication data 304 is to allow attachment to the control console 30. 32, 43. For example, the self-grounding electrode adapter The attachment 43 differs from the monopolar attachment 43, which requires the use of a ground pad 36. Other aspects of the authentication data 304 other than those described herein may be used. A variety of configurations may also be utilized.

[0163] Identification data 300, usage data 302, and authentication data 304, as well as electrode attachment Examples of other data fields in memory devices in the 2014 IEEE 802.11 Symposium on Computers and Systems, vol. 113, No. 13-2014, 1999, are given in the 2014 IEEE 802.11 Symposium on Computers and Systems, vol. 113, No. 13-2014, 1999. "Electrode Assembly with Separate Bipolar Cannula and Supply Electrode" This patent is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,852,182, entitled "Polymer-Based Electrodes for Use in a Compressed Liquid Crystal Display." The entire contents of the disclosure are incorporated herein by reference. or fewer data fields may be provided in the memory devices 120, 128. It will be understood that an example of such a data field is Attachment 32. , 43 hardware version, operation data or control data, physical parameters (e.g. , the electrode length of the attachment 43), etc.

[0164] The control console 30 advantageously stores data 300 relating to the attachments 32, 43. and provide new techniques for processing and displaying representations of usage data 302. The non-transitory memory 56 of the control console 30 is implemented by one or more processors 54. The computer-executable instructions 58 (hereafter referred to as software) are stored in the The software 58 may also be implemented in conjunction with a controller 60. The GUI 52 and the control console 30 operating system 58 implement user control of the GUI 52 and the control console 30. A programming system can be implemented.

[0165] The software 58 is received in the first connection interface 42 of the control console 30. The identification data 300 and usage data 302 associated with the attachment 32, 43 are read. Advantageously, by storing this data, the control console 30 , attachments 32, 43 connected or previously connected to the control console 30 The identification data 300 and usage data 302 of the user are retained for a period of time. This identification data 300 and The usage data 302 may be received at different times throughout the life of the control console 30. The memory 56 can be stored in the attachment 32, 43 when the attachment 32, 43 is connected to the interface 42. The identification data 300 and the usage data 302 associated with the attack are stored. The interface 32, 43 is configured to be retained even after it is disconnected from the interface 42. It is composed of:

[0166] The database 320 in the memory 56 of the control console 30 is connected to the control console 30. Identification data 300 of all attachments 32, 43 that are or have been connected and usage data 302. This database 320 can be used to Sole 30 is attached for preventive maintenance, inventory management, usage management, error log recording, etc. This allows for inventory checks of items 32 and 43 to be carried out.

[0167] The software 58 processes the stored identification data 300 and usage data 302. The technique is implemented mainly by using the identification data 300 read by the controller 60 and The software and usage data 302 is generally received in chunks over time. The software 58 collects the identification data 300 and the usage data 310 in a cumulative database 320. 3, the stored identification data 300 and usage data 302 are processed by compiling the It is configured to manage data by grouping similar types of data together and time-stamping the data. By arranging the data by number of samples and categorizing the data into bins in the database 320, The identification data 300 and the usage amount can be sorted, linked, filtered, etc. Various other types of software enhancements to data 302 are also contemplated.

[0168] In some instances, for example, fleet control computers may be used for data mining purposes. The database 320 of the server 30 can be integrated into a remote database. This data, as provided by the techniques described in the subsection, shall first be provided to each control console. The ability to store data locally on the cloud 30 is an advantage of data mining. It is a step.

[0169] Additionally, the software 58 converts the stored identification data and usage data into text. 302. The processing of the stored identification data 300 and usage data 302 is directed by converting the The controller 60 mainly reads out the identification data. The identification data 300 and usage data 302 are generally not in a form suitable for display. 0 and the usage data 302 may be in some digital representation, e.g., binary or ASCII. The identification data 300 and the usage data 302 can be stored in the Text and / or text that is understood by the operating system and suitable for GUI52 For example, the software 68 may be used to generate additional meanings or images. The identification data 300 and the usage data 302 are added to or associated with the Additional letters or words can be indicated. This process uses a table of stored letters or words. The identification data 300 and the used character encoding scheme may follow any suitable technique. Although the above describes processing of the dosage data 302, e.g., organization and transformation, any other type of processing may be used. It will be appreciated that the data can be processed in a similar manner.

[0170] 20-23, the software 58 generates the processed identification data 300. and directs the generation of a digital representation 310 for display 50 of the usage data 302.

[0171] FIG. 20 shows various electrode adapters that are or have been connected to the control console 30. 3, which is displayable on the display 50 of the control console 30, showing the data of the instrumentation 43. FIG. 1 is a diagram of one example screen of GUI 52. For simplicity, display 50 itself is not shown. Although not shown, it is understood that GUI 52 is displayed on this display. This screen is specifically directed to the electrode attachment 43 rather than the cable attachment 32. This screen may be used by a user to interface with the GUI 52 using, for example, a touch screen. The selection can be made by the user.

[0172] FIG. 20 shows, for example, monopolar, self-grounding bipolar, and electrode attachment 4 The type of electrode attachment 43 is shown to indicate that the 3 operates in parallel bipolar mode. This can be obtained from the processed identification data 300. The length of each electrode attachment 43, which indicates the length of the electrodes E1 to E4, is also displayed on the digital representation 310. Since the electrodes E1 to E4 can be of various lengths, the user can 4. If the patient does not know whether the same or different electrodes were used, By displaying this data, the user can know that the electrodes E1 to E4 are broken. This provides deeper insight into whether the usage data is likely to be 2 derives the usage of each electrode attachment 43 which is displayed using a digital representation 310 Here, the processed usage data 302 is used to It is expressed as an integer indicating the number of times it has been used.

[0173] The controller 60 detects an operational error 330 associated with the attachments 32, 43. For example, the electrode attachment 43 is configured to have electrodes E1 to E4 However, there are cases where the ground pad 36 is too close to the ground pad 36. In such a situation, The low impedance triggers the activation of the ground pad test relay 82. The error can be stored in memory 56 or the error data can be stored in each electrode. It is also possible to write to the memory device 120 of the attachment 43. The operational error 330 can be associated with the electrode attachment 43. The same is true for the attachments 32. The control console 32 is The method is configured to associate an operational error 330 with identification data 300 associated with the port 32, 43. The software 58 further includes a display 330 that includes an associated operational error 330. The system can then direct the processing and generation of a digital representation 310 of the image 50. One derivation of the digital representation 310 of the operational error 330 is shown in FIG. The integer value of the motion error 330 associated with the electrode attachment 43 is displayed.

[0174] FIG. 21 shows an electrode attachment that is or was connected to the control console 30. 1 shows the control console 30 error log for instance 43 in its entirety. 1 is a diagram of another exemplary screen of a GUI 52 that may be displayed on the display 50 of the computer according to the present invention; The processed identification data 300 is organized during processing by associated operational errors 330. The serial number is digitally represented by the serial number. is related to the low impedance due to the electrodes E1 to E4 being too close to the ground pad 36. Of course, other motion errors 330 can also be represented digitally. The tamper is associated with either the use of the control console 30 or the triggering of an operational error 330. The log keeps track of any such operational errors 330. , allowing a user of the control console 30 to quickly access this data about the control console 30. The GUI 52 may be used with control consoles 30 other than that shown in FIG. Any other suitable type of data about may be provided.

[0175] The GUI 52 can be used to control any given attachment 43 that has been connected to the control console 30. , 32. The above processing of the data 302 creates these various GUI 52 images showing different layers of data. Allows dynamic and fast transitions between surfaces.

[0176] In the example of FIG. 22, the digital representation 310 represents one electrode attachment 43, namely: 100 mm in length and a serial number derived from the processed identification data 300. Provides data on the monopolar electrode attachment selected. The interface 43 is or was connected to the control console 30. Unlike the error log of the control console 30 shown in FIG. is provided exclusively for this respective electrode attachment 43. The operation error 330 occurs when the electrode of this electrode attachment 43 is not connected to the ground pad 3. 6. Of course, the electrode attachment Other operational errors 330 of the electrode attachment 43 may also be represented digitally. It also shows timestamps associated with either the use of the agent 43 or the triggering of an operational error 330. The log tracks and controls any such operational errors 330. The user of the control console 30 can access data for any single electrode attachment 43. The GUI 52 may be configured to access any given The electrode attachment 43 may provide any other suitable type of data related to the electrode attachment 43. In addition, the log of FIG. 22 can be provided for the cable attachment 32 as well. Cut.

[0177] FIG. 23 is yet another example of a GUI 52 showing a selectable summary page for cable accessories 32. Again, this is a screen shot showing the cables currently connected to the control console 30. The cable attachment 32 may be connected to the control console 30. The cable attachment 32 may be connected to the cable 3. The identification data 300 and usage data 302 of the cable accessory 32 include the serial number and The results are then processed into a digital representation 310 showing the amount of fuel used (odometer) and the amount of fuel used (electrical consumption). Additionally, the cable (e.g., at the second interface 104 of the cable accessory 32) The processed data of the electrode attachment 43 connected to the accessory 32 is displayed. That is, the identification data 300 and the usage data 302 of each electrode attachment 43 are Attachment 43 serial number, type, length, and amount used (odometer) The GUI 52 is nested within the screen. For example, in FIG. 23, each port of the cable accessory 32 may be provides further information about each respective electrode attachment 43 beyond that shown in FIG. The GUI 52 may be selected to display information about cables other than those shown in FIG. The accessory 32 or any other suitable type of associated electrode attachment 43 may be Further, the log of FIG. 22 provides the following data regarding the cable attachment 32: can be provided as well.

[0178] Several embodiments have been discussed in the above description. However, the embodiments discussed herein It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to any particular form. The terms used are in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings, and the present invention , may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.

[0179] Embodiments of the present disclosure can be described with reference to the following numbered clauses, in particular: The physical features are explained in the subordinate clauses.

[0180] I. Monopolar and / or bipolar self-grounding electrode attachments a cable accessory configured to interconnect the controller to a control console, The console communicates with one or more of the electrode attachments through one or more channels. The cable is configured to energize and perform radio frequency (RF) nerve ablation. The product is a first interface configured to connect to the control console; The monopolar electrode attachment and / or the bipolar self-grounding electrode attachment a second interface configured to connect to the Depending on which electrode attachment is connected to the second interface: One channel of the control console connects the monopolar electrode attachment or the The first interface supports signal output to a bipolar self-grounding electrode attachment. an output circuit path connected between the input and the second interface; From said bipolar self-grounding electrode attachment to said one channel of said control console The first interface and the second interface, which correspond to a signal feedback to the channel. a first feedback circuit path connected between the A cable accessory comprising:

[0181] II. The first interface is connected to the output circuit path and the first feedback circuit path. 2. A cable accessory as described in clause I, comprising a single connected electrical connector.

[0182] III. The second interface is adapted to determine which electrode attachment is to be connected to the electrical connector. Depending on what is connected, each one has one monopolar electrode attachment or one battery. A plurality of electrical connectors configured to connect to a bipolar self-grounding electrode attachment. A cable accessory according to clause I or II, comprising:

[0183] IV. Each of the electrical connectors of the second interface has the same number of conductive terminals. A cable accessory as described in clause III.

[0184] V. Each electrical connector of the second interface is a terminal connected to said output circuit path corresponding to said signal output; said first electrode attachment responsive to a signal return from said bipolar self-grounded electrode attachment; One terminal connected to the feedback circuit path; a terminal pair for connection to the thermocouple of the electrode attachment; a terminal pair connected to the non-volatile memory of the electrode attachment; 4. A cable accessory according to claim III or IV, comprising:

[0185] VI. A housing and a power supply connected between the housing and the first interface. and an electrical cable, the second interface being connected to the housing. , A cable accessory as described in any one of clauses I to V.

[0186] VII. Connect two monopolar electrode attachments in parallel bipolar mode to the control controller. further configured to interconnect to the sole; The second interface is designed to connect to the two monopolar electrode attachments. It is structured as follows: The output circuit path is connected from one channel of the control console to the two monopolar configured to respond to a signal output to a first one of the electrode attachments; A second feedback circuit path different from the first feedback circuit path is connected to the first interface. The two monopolar electrode attachments are connected between the second interface. a second one of the control consoles receiving a signal from the ... A cable accessory according to any one of clauses I to VI.

[0187] VIII. The case according to any one of clauses I to VII, further comprising a non-volatile memory. Bull accessories.

[0188] IX. The non-volatile memory is connected to the one or more second interfaces. Clause VII configured to store identification data associated with the electrode attachment. Cable accessories as described in I.

[0189] X. The non-volatile memory stores the usage of the cable attachments with the control console, and and / or relating to the use of said cable accessories with said one or more electrode attachments. a cable as described in clause VIII or IX, configured to store usage data obtained by Le accessories.

[0190] XI. The non-volatile memory is an electrode attachment to said cable accessory; an electrode attachment to said control console; a cable attachment to said control console; configured to store authentication data associated with authorization for use of one or more of the A cable accessory according to any one of clauses VIII to X.

[0191] XII. A device configured to interconnect one or more electrode attachments to a control console a cable accessory for connecting the control console to the One or more electrode attachments are energized to perform radiofrequency (RF) nerve ablation. The cable accessory is configured to: a first interface configured to connect to the control console; a second interface configured to connect to the one or more electrode attachments. and, A communication device connected between the first interface and the second interface, one or more of a plurality of electrical path configurations between the interface and the second interface; 5. Select the above, thereby connecting said one or more electrode attachments and said control console A switch device controllable to accommodate interconnections between the one or more channels is provided. A circuit that can A cable accessory comprising:

[0192] XIII. The first interface is connectable to all selected electrical path configurations. A cable accessory as described in clause XII, comprising a single electrical connector.

[0193] XIV. The second interfaces are each adapted to connect to one electrode attachment. The electrode attachment includes a plurality of electrical connectors configured as follows: Either the bipolar self-grounding electrode attachment or the bipolar self-grounding electrode attachment. The second interface further includes a type defined by the type of electrode adapter. Depending on which electrode is connected to the second interface, Article XII or A cable accessory as described in XIII.

[0194] XV. Each of the electrical connectors of the second interface has the same number of conductive terminals. 4. A cable accessory as described in clause XIV.

[0195] XVI. Each of the electrical connectors of the second interface each has one channel. The RF signal transmission from one channel to another is configured to support RF signal transmission from one channel. A first terminal and a second terminal are provided. a first circuit path is defined between each first terminal and the first interface; a second circuit path is defined between each second terminal and the first interface; The switch device is disposed in series with each of the first circuit paths to open and close each of the first circuit paths. a first relay disposed in series with each of the second circuit paths for opening and closing each of the second circuit paths; A cable accessory according to clause XIV or XV, comprising a second relay.

[0196] XVII. The first relay of each connector of the second interface and the second A cable accessory according to clause XVI, wherein the relays are capable of being controlled in sequence.

[0197] XVIII. The above electrode attachments include monopolar electrode attachments and bipolar electrode attachments. The device further comprises a type specified as either a self-grounding electrode attachment or and the switch device is controllable based on the type of the electrode attachment. A cable accessory according to any one of clauses XII to XVII.

[0198] XIX. The switch device is adapted to determine whether the electrode attachment is a monopolar electrode attachment. selecting the electrical path configuration based on the selected electrical path configuration being the model; The nopolar electrode attachment is connected to one channel of the control console. The case according to any one of clauses XII to XVIII, Cable accessories.

[0199] XX. The above switch device operates in a parallel bipolar mode with two electrode attachments Select the above electrical pathway configuration based on the two monopolar electrode attachments. and wherein the selected electrical pathway configuration is connected to the two monopolar electrode attachments and the control controller. and adapted to interconnect two channels of a console. A cable accessory according to any one of claims XII to XIX.

[0200] XXI. The switch device is adapted to switch the electrode attachment to a bipolar self-grounding electrode attachment. selecting the electrical path configuration based on the attachment; The configuration is the bipolar self-grounding electrode attachment and one channel of the control console. Any of clauses XII to XX, which are controllable so as to be adapted to interconnect with 1. A cable accessory as described in paragraph 1.

[0201] XXII. The circuit further comprises a non-volatile memory connected to the controller, The non-volatile memory is associated with the one or more electrode attachments connected to the second interface. Identification data; The amount of use of said cable attachment to said control console and / or said one or more electrode attachments usage data relating to the usage of said cable accessories with attachments; Attachment of said one or more electrodes to said control console and / or said cable accessories authentication data related to the authorization to use the Any one of clauses XII to XXI, 2. A cable accessory as described in

[0202] XXIII. The controller and the switch device are disposed in a housing, an electrical cable connected between the housing and the first interface; The second interface is connected to the housing. 13. A cable accessory as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12.

[0203] XXIV. A control console configured for radio frequency (RF) nerve ablation , A display and A controller; one or more processors; It accepts attachments adapted for RF nerve ablation and has a an interface configured to facilitate a connection between a memory device and the controller; each memory device storing identification data identifying said attachment and said and usage data identifying usage of the attachment; and a non-transitory memory storing instructions executable by said one or more processors; Then, the identification data associated with the attachment received in the interface; and reading and storing said usage data; processing said stored identification data and usage data; a digital representation of said processed identification data and usage data for said display; Generating and a non-transitory memory configured to: A control console comprising:

[0204] XXV. The instruction is for the attachments received at different times by the interface reading and storing said identification data and said usage data associated with said user; configured to generate a cumulative database of identification data and usage data. The control console described in XXIV.

[0205] XXVI. The instructions include: Processing the stored identification data and usage data by organizing the usage data. a control console as described in clause XXV, configured to control

[0206] XXVII. The instructions convert the stored identification data and usage data into text. configured to process the stored identification data and usage data by converting the The control console according to any one of clauses XXIV to XXVI,

[0207] XXVIII. Each memory device shall have a certification associated with it that authorizes the use of the above attachment. The attachment further stores data, and the instructions are stored in the attachment received by the interface. Clauses XXIV to XXV are further configured to read said authentication data associated with A control console according to any one of claims II.

[0208] XXIX. One or more of the above attachments is an electrode attachment. A control console according to any one of claims XIV to XXVIII.

[0209] XXX. One or more of the above attachments may be fitted with one or more electrode attachments. Clause XXIV, a cable accessory configured to interconnect with the control console. A control console described in any one of claims 1 to XXIX.

[0210] XXXI. Said usage data is based on the usage of said cable accessories with said control console. and / or further relating to the use of said cable attachment with said one or more electrode attachments. a control console as described in clause XXX,

[0211] XXXII. The said order: Detecting operational errors; associating said operational error with said identification data associated with said attachment; , generating said digital representation of said display including said associated operational errors; And The control according to any one of clauses XXIV to XXXI, further configured to console.

[0212] XXXIII. Said controller transmits the usage data to one of said attachments. Clause X is further configured to instruct writing to the memory device. A control console according to any one of items XIV to XXXII.

[0213] XXXIV. The non-transient memory is connected to the attachment through the interface. After the attachment is released, the identification data and the usage data associated with the attachment The restrictions set forth in any one of clauses XXIV to XXXII are configured to maintain Your console.

[0214] XXXV. A housing further comprising: the controller, the one or more processors, and and the non-transitory memory is disposed within the housing, and the display and the interface are connected to each other. The interface is connected to the housing and exposed to the outside of the housing. A control console according to any one of items XIV to XXXIV.

[0215] XXXVI. Transmitting through said interface to one or more of said attachments Clause XXIV further comprises an RF generator configured to generate an RF signal capable of A control console as described in any one of claims 1 to XXXV.

[0216] XXXVII. OPERATION OF A CONTROL CONSOLE CONFIGURED FOR RADIOFREQUENCY (RF) NERVE ABLATION The control console includes a display, a controller, and an RF An interface configured to receive an attachment adapted for nerve ablation. Each attachment comprises identification data for identifying said attachment and said A memory device for storing usage data that identifies the usage amount of the attachment, The method includes the control console: The identification data and the usage data associated with the attachment are stored in the memory device. and reading the received signal from the device. storing said identification data and said usage data; processing said stored identification data and usage data; generating a digital representation of the processed identification and usage data; displaying said digital representation using said display; The method of claim 1, further comprising:

[0217] XXXVIII. Reading said identification data and said usage data is The identification data and the attachments associated with the attachments received at different times on the face. The method is further defined as reading the usage data, Storing the identification data and the usage data may be performed by the attribution system at different times. storing said identification data and said usage data from said memory device of said attachment; generating a cumulative database of said stored identification data and usage data; It is further defined, Generating the digital representation includes retrieving the stored identification from the cumulative database. generating said digital representation of said data and usage data. The method according to claim XXXVII.

[0218] XXXIX. Processing said stored identification data and usage data and further organizing the stored identification data and usage data in a database. The method according to clause XXXVIII,

[0219] XL. Processing said stored identification data and usage data Clause XXXVII-F further includes converting the identification data and the usage data to text. XXXIX. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

[0220] XLI. Each memory device contains authentication data related to the authorization for use of said attachment. The control console further stores the attachment received by the interface. Clauses XXXVII to X are configured to read said authentication data associated with the The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

[0221] XLII. One or more of the above attachments is an electrode attachment. A method according to any one of claims XXVII to XLI.

[0222] XLIII. One or more of the above attachments may include one or more electrode attachments. Clauses XXXVII to XLI are cable accessories interconnecting the The method according to any one of claims I to I.

[0223] XLIV. The above usage data refers to the usage of the above cable accessories with the above control console. and / or further relating to the use of said cable attachment with said one or more electrode attachments. The method according to any one of clauses XXXVII to XLIII,

[0224] XLV. The control console is Detecting operational errors; associating said operational error with said identification data associated with said attachment; , further generating the digital representation of the display including the motion errors; The method of any one of clauses XXXVII-XLIV, further comprising:

[0225] XLVI. The control console transmits the usage data to one or more of the attachments. Clause XXXVII-Further comprising instructing the memory device to write to the The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4,

[0226] XLVII. After said attachment is detached from said interface, retaining in memory said identification data and said usage data associated with the attachment; The method of any one of clauses XXXVII-XLVI, further comprising:

[0227] XLVIII. An RF generator from said control console through said interface Clause XXXVI further including transmitting an RF signal to one or more of the attachments. The method according to any one of claims I to XLVII.

Claims

1. A control console for radiofrequency (RF) nerve ablation, The display and An interface for accepting attachments for RF nerve ablation and facilitating connection between the memory device of each attachment and the controller, wherein each memory device stores identification data that identifies the attachment and usage data that indicates the amount of the attachment used; The display and the controller connected to the interface Equipped with, The aforementioned controller, The interface reads and stores the identification data and usage data related to the attachment accepted by the interface. The stored identification data and usage data are processed, The processed identification data and the usage data are used to generate digital representations for the display. Control console.

2. The control console according to claim 1, wherein the controller reads and stores the identification data and usage data related to the attachment accepted by the interface at multiple points in time, and generates a cumulative database of the stored identification data and usage data.

3. The controller processes the stored identification data and usage data by organizing the stored identification data and usage data in the cumulative database, as described in claim 2.

4. Each memory device also stores authentication data related to the authorization of the use of the attachment. The controller further reads the authentication data related to the attachment accepted by the interface. The control console according to claim 1.

5. The control console according to claim 1, wherein one or more of the attachments are electrode attachments.

6. The control console according to claim 1, wherein one or more of the attachments are cable accessories that interconnect one or more electrode attachments with the control console.

7. The control console according to claim 6, wherein the usage data is further associated with at least one of the usage of the cable accessory with the control console and the usage of the cable accessory with one or more electrode attachments.

8. The controller further, Detects operational errors, The aforementioned operational error is associated with the identification data related to the attachment, For the display, the digital representation is further generated so as to include the associated operational errors. The control console according to claim 1.

9. The controller further instructs the writing of usage data to the memory device of one or more attachments, according to claim 1, the control console.

10. The control console according to claim 1, wherein the controller retains the identification data and usage data related to the attachment in memory even after the attachment has been disconnected from the interface.

11. The control console according to claim 1, further comprising an RF generator that generates an RF signal that can be transmitted to one or more attachments via the interface.

12. A method for operating a control console for radiofrequency (RF) nerve ablation, The control console comprises a display, a controller, and an interface for receiving attachments for RF nerve ablation. Each attachment includes a memory device that stores identification data to identify the attachment and usage data indicating the amount of the attachment used. The aforementioned control console The steps include reading the identification data and usage data related to the attachment from the memory device, A step of storing the aforementioned identification data and the aforementioned usage data, A step of processing the stored identification data and usage data, A step of generating a digital representation of the processed identification data and the usage data, The steps include: displaying the digital representation using the display unit; A method that includes this.

13. The step of reading the identification data and the usage data further includes reading the identification data and the usage data related to the attachment accepted by the interface at multiple points in time, The step of storing the identification data and the usage data further includes storing the identification data and the usage data from the memory device of the attachment at multiple points in time to generate a cumulative database of the stored identification data and the usage data. The step of generating the digital representation further comprises generating digital representations of the stored identification data and usage data from the cumulative database. The method according to claim 12.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the step of processing the stored identification data and the usage data further includes organizing the stored identification data and the usage data in the cumulative database.

15. Each memory device also stores authentication data related to the authorization of the use of the attachment. The control console reads the authentication data related to the attachment accepted by the interface. The method according to claim 12.

16. The method according to claim 12, wherein the usage data is further associated with at least one of the usage of the cable accessory with the control console and the usage of the cable accessory with one or more electrode attachments.

17. The aforementioned control console Steps to detect operational errors, The steps include associating the aforementioned operational error with the identification data related to the attachment, Furthermore, the steps include generating the digital representation for the display such that the operational errors are included. The method according to claim 12, further comprising:

18. The method according to claim 12, further comprising the step of the control console instructing one or more attachments to write usage data to the memory device.

19. The method according to claim 12, further comprising the step of the control console retaining in memory the identification data and usage data related to the attachment even after the attachment has been disconnected from the interface.

20. The method according to claim 12, further comprising the step of the control console transmitting an RF signal from the RF generator of the control console to one or more of the attachments through the interface.

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