Treatment apparatus using RF energy, method for controlling same, and treatment method using same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a treatment apparatus using RF energy, a method for controlling same, and a treatment method using same. More particularly, the present invention provides a treatment apparatus using RF energy, a method for controlling same, and a treatment method using same, the treatment apparatus comprising: a handpiece having an electrode configured to contact a skin surface and to transfer RF energy; an RF energy-generating unit for generating RF energy to be transferred to the electrode; a cooling unit provided to cool the electrode; and a control unit for controlling the operations of the RF energy-generating unit and the cooling unit and controlling the cooling unit so as to preliminarily cool the electrode before RF energy is applied to the electrode.

Description

Treatment device using RF energy, control method thereof, and treatment method using same

[0001] The present invention relates to a treatment device using RF energy, a control method thereof, and a treatment method using the same.

[0002] Techniques for treating tissue lesions by delivering RF energy to the tissue have been developed in various ways. In particular, recent developments have focused on techniques that treat tissue without damaging the skin surface by cooling the skin with electrodes placed on the skin surface and delivering RF energy. Such RF energy-based treatment techniques are disclosed in Korean Patent No. 0706115, among others. However, conventional RF energy-based treatment techniques have suffered from inconsistent treatment outcomes, depending on the treatment environment and patient characteristics.

[0003] The present invention provides a treatment device using RF energy, a control method thereof, and a treatment method using the same, which can minimize deviations in treatment results caused by differences in treatment environments and patient characteristics when treating tissues using RF energy.

[0004] In order to achieve the above-described object of the present invention, the present invention provides a treatment device using RF energy, including a handpiece having an electrode that contacts a skin surface to transmit RF energy, an RF energy generating unit that generates RF energy transmitted to the electrode, a cooling unit that is provided to cool the electrode, and a control unit that controls the operations of the RF energy generating unit and the cooling unit, and controls the cooling unit to preliminarily cool the electrode before RF energy is applied to the electrode.

[0005] The control unit controls the electrode to preliminarily cool so that the electrode forms a preset temperature when no RF energy is applied. Here, the preset temperature may be a temperature lower than room temperature, and for example, may be a value within the range of 0 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius.

[0006] The control unit can control the electrode to be preliminarily cooled regardless of when the electrode comes into contact with the skin surface or when RF energy is applied to the electrode.

[0007] And, the control unit controls the cooling unit to cool the electrode while RF energy is applied through the electrode, and the cooling unit can be controlled so that the process of preliminarily cooling the electrode and the process of cooling the electrode while the RF energy is applied are continuously performed.

[0008] As an example, the handpiece further includes a tip module having the electrode on one surface thereof and detachably coupled to an end of the main body of the handpiece. When the tip module is coupled to the main body of the handpiece, the control unit can automatically control the cooling unit to preliminarily cool the electrode. Here, the tip module further includes a memory containing information about the tip module, and the control unit controls the preliminarily cooling of the electrode based on the information about the tip module stored in the memory.

[0009] The cooling unit comprises a refrigerant receiving portion that receives refrigerant, a cooling channel that is provided at least partially within the handpiece and forms a path through which the refrigerant received in the refrigerant receiving portion is delivered to the electrode, and a valve that controls the amount of refrigerant delivered through the cooling channel. In addition, the valve may be configured as a proportional control valve so that the operation of cooling the electrode can be performed continuously.

[0010] As an example, the handpiece further includes a contact sensor positioned adjacent to the electrode to detect the contact state between the electrode and the patient's skin. The control unit may control the RF generator to transmit the RF energy after a preset time has elapsed since the electrode first came into contact with the patient's skin surface.

[0011] Additionally, while the user moves the handpiece to the second position after treating the first position, the control unit can control the cooling unit to preliminarily cool the electrode.

[0012] Meanwhile, the above-described object of the present invention can also be achieved by a control method for a treatment device using RF energy, which includes a step of detecting that a tip module having an electrode provided on one surface for transmitting RF energy by contacting a skin surface is coupled to one end of a handpiece, a step of preliminarily cooling the electrode by a cooling unit before transmitting RF energy through the electrode, and a step of applying RF energy generated from an RF energy generating unit to the cooled electrode.

[0013] In addition, the above-described object of the present invention can also be achieved by a treatment method using RF energy, which includes a step of preliminarily cooling an electrode that contacts the skin surface and transmits RF energy to a preset temperature, and a step of applying RF energy by contacting the electrode cooled to the preset temperature to the skin surface.

[0014] According to the present invention, treatment is performed while the electrode is preliminarily cooled to a preset temperature, so that treatment can be performed with an electrode having a constant electrical characteristic even if the temperature of the treatment environment or the patient's skin temperature is different, thereby enabling uniform treatment.

[0015] Additionally, since pre-cooled electrodes are used, treatment can be performed while the patient's skin is at a certain temperature range, enabling uniform treatment while preventing damage to the skin surface.

[0016] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating a treatment device using RF energy according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main configuration of the treatment device according to Figure 1;

[0018] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the handpiece of Figure 1;

[0019] Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the main configuration of the tip module of Fig. 3;

[0020] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the main configuration of the tip module of Fig. 3;

[0021] Fig. 6 is a graph showing the temperature change of the electrode according to the pre-cooling in Fig. 3.

[0022] Figure 7 is a graph showing the cooling and RF application patterns applied to the electrode according to the treatment process.

[0023] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a treatment device using RF energy according to one embodiment;

[0024] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating detailed steps of the pre-cooling step of Figure 8;

[0025] Fig. 10 is a graph showing the cooling pattern and temperature change of the pre-cooling step of Fig. 7.

[0026] Fig. 11 is a graph illustrating an example of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor.

[0027] Fig. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a treatment device using RF energy according to another embodiment.

[0028] Fig. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a treatment method using a treatment device using RF energy according to another embodiment.

[0029] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, a treatment device using RF energy, a control method thereof, and a treatment method using the same according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail. In the following description, the positional relationship of each component is explained in principle based on the drawings. In addition, the drawings may simplify the structure of the invention or, if necessary, exaggerate it for convenience of explanation. Therefore, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it goes without saying that various devices can be added, modified, or omitted in addition to these.

[0030] Hereinafter, the term "treatment device using RF energy" includes all devices for treating mammals, including humans. The treatment device may include various devices that transmit RF energy for the purpose of improving the condition of a lesion or tissue. The following embodiment focuses on a device for treating skin lesions. For example, it may mean that RF energy is used to locally heat skin tissue to improve wrinkles, tone and textural changes, scars and acne scarring, sagging mucosa, overall rejuvenation, hyperhidrosis, laxity, lifting, tightening, fat reduction, etc. However, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited thereto, and can be applied to various devices that transmit RF energy to various affected areas, including devices for surgically treating lesions of internal organs.

[0031] Hereinafter, "tissue" refers to the collection of cells that make up the various bodily organs of animals, including humans. This includes the skin tissue of the face, neck, arms, legs, and torso, as well as various tissues that make up various organs within the body.

[0032] Hereinafter, a treatment device using RF energy according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a treatment device using RF energy according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] As illustrated in FIG. 1, a treatment device using RF energy according to the present embodiment includes a main body (10), a handpiece (20) connected to the main body (10), and a return electrode pad (30).

[0035] The main body (10) is equipped with various components for operating the treatment device of the present embodiment. The exterior of the main body (10) is equipped with various switches and display units for setting / manipulating the operation of the treatment device. In addition, components such as an RF energy generating unit (50) and a refrigerant receiving unit may be equipped inside the main body (10).

[0036] The handpiece (20) is a component that performs treatment at a treatment location and is provided in a form that a user can hold in their hand and use. An electrode (60) that contacts the patient's skin surface and transmits RF energy is provided at one end of the handpiece (20). Various operating parts for manipulating the treatment motion may be provided on the outer surface of the handpiece (20), and a conductive path for transmitting RF energy to the electrode (60) and a cooling channel for cooling the electrode are provided on the inside of the handpiece (20).

[0037] The return electrode pad (30) includes a return electrode. The return electrode is composed of a conductive material and is positioned so as to contact a location on the patient's body opposite the treatment location during treatment. Therefore, when RF energy is applied, the return electrode, together with the electrode of the handpiece, forms a path through which RF energy is transmitted to the patient's body.

[0038] As illustrated in Fig. 1, the handpiece (20) and the return electrode pad (30) are each connected to the main body by a connecting portion. The connecting portion may be formed of a cable or the like, and each is electrically connected to the main body to form an RF transmission path and is configured to transmit or receive various signals.

[0039] In the present embodiment, the electrode (60) of the handpiece is configured as a monopolar type having one polarity and includes a separate return electrode pad, but the present invention is not limited thereto. As another example, if the electrode of the handpiece is configured as a bipolar type having different polarities, the handpiece may be implemented without including the aforementioned return electrode pad.

[0040] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main configuration of the treatment device according to Figure 1.

[0041] The RF energy generating unit (50) generates RF energy used for treatment. The RF energy generating unit (50) generates RF pulses having various parameters depending on the patient's constitution, treatment purpose, treatment area, etc. The parameters may be at least one of output, pulse duration, pulse interval, and frequency. The RF energy generated by the RF energy generating unit (50) is transmitted to the electrode (60) of the handpiece through the connecting unit and is applied to the skin surface in contact with the electrode (60).

[0042] The RF energy generating unit (50) of the present embodiment generates RF energy having at least two different frequencies. That is, the RF energy generating unit (50) can selectively generate RF energy having a first frequency and RF energy having a second frequency. Here, when the frequency range is divided into a first range (2 to 6 MHz), a second range (6 to 10 MHz), and a third range (10 to 30 MHz), the first frequency may be a frequency within the first range, and the second frequency may be a frequency within the second range. Alternatively, the first frequency may be a frequency within the first range, and the second frequency may be a frequency within the third range. Alternatively, the first frequency may be a frequency within the second range, and the second frequency may be a frequency within the third range. In the case where the RF energy generating unit (50) can generate RF energy having three different frequencies, the first frequency may be a frequency within the first range, the second frequency may be a frequency within the second range, and the third frequency may be a frequency within the third range.

[0043] The RF energy generating unit (50) can be controlled to generate RF energy having a selected frequency or RF energy combining RF pulses of multiple frequencies, depending on the progress of the selected treatment mode or treatment process, but with different frequency ratios.

[0044] The cooling unit (70) is configured to cool the electrode (60) of the handpiece. The cooling unit (70) may be configured in various cooling methods. As an example, the cooling unit (70) of the present embodiment is configured to cool the electrode by delivering a coolant to the rear surface of the electrode. Accordingly, since the electrode (60) in contact with the skin during treatment is cooled, thermal damage to the skin surface can be prevented while RF energy is delivered.

[0045] Specifically, the cooling unit (70) includes a refrigerant receiving portion for receiving refrigerant, a cooling channel forming a path through which the refrigerant received in the refrigerant receiving portion is delivered to the electrode, and a refrigerant spraying portion (152) for spraying the refrigerant delivered through the cooling channel to the rear surface of the electrode of the handpiece. The refrigerant receiving portion is provided in the main body or in a separate location. The cooling channel is connected from the refrigerant receiving portion to the refrigerant spraying portion, and at least a portion of the cooling channel is provided inside the handpiece. In addition, a valve for controlling the amount of refrigerant delivered is provided on the path through which the refrigerant is delivered, and the on / off operation or opening / closing amount of the valve can be controlled by the control unit (40).

[0046] The cooling unit (70) may be configured to continuously spray refrigerant onto the rear surface of the electrode, or may be configured to spray refrigerant pulses at a predetermined interval by controlling a valve or the like. The cooling performance of the cooling unit (70) may be controlled by the amount of refrigerant delivered per unit time to the rear surface of the electrode. This cooling performance may be controlled by controlling the pressure of the refrigerant receiving portion, the valve on / off cycle, or the valve opening / closing amount.

[0047] The sensing unit (80) is a component that senses various information necessary for the operation of the treatment device during, before, or after treatment. For example, the sensing unit (80) may be at least one of an impedance sensor that measures the impedance of a tissue, a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of an electrode or skin, a contact sensor that detects whether the electrode of the handpiece is in contact with the skin surface, and a movement sensor that detects the movement speed of the handpiece. As an example, in the present embodiment, the temperature sensor and the contact sensor may be positioned adjacent to the electrode of the handpiece.

[0048] The storage unit (90) is configured to store various information required for treatment and includes a memory element. The storage unit (90) is provided in the main body (10) and may additionally be provided in the handpiece (20) or the tip module (100). The storage unit (90) can store parameter information for each treatment mode, patient-related information, control information according to sensed conditions, etc. In addition, the storage unit can update and record information sensed during treatment and information input by the user. In addition, the memory provided in the handpiece (20) or the tip module (100) can be configured to store identification information for the handpiece or the tip module.

[0049] The control unit (40) is a component that controls the operation of various components of the treatment device, such as the RF energy generation unit (50) and the cooling unit (70). For example, the control unit (40) controls various components using the contents set by the user through the setting unit or the control information stored in the storage unit. The control unit receives sensed information from the sensing unit (80) and controls various components using the sensed information. For example, the control unit (40) receives a temperature value sensed by a temperature sensor and controls the parameters of the RF energy and the cooling performance for the electrode based on the temperature value. Here, the control unit (40) is configured to include a calculation unit, and can calculate real-time control values ​​from the sensed values ​​using a preset algorithm and control various components based on the calculated control values.

[0050] Fig. 3 is a perspective view illustrating the handpiece of Fig. 1. As illustrated in Fig. 3, the handpiece (20) comprises a main body (21) and a tip module (100). One end of the main body (21) is connected to a connecting portion, and various components for performing a treatment operation, such as an RF transmission circuit and a cooling path, are provided inside. An operation portion and a display portion, such as a display, may be provided on the outer surface of the main body (21). The tip module (100) is provided with an electrode (60) for transmitting RF energy by contacting the skin, and is detachably coupled to one end of the main body (21). The tip module (100) is provided with a circuit for transmitting RF energy to the electrode and a cooling structure for cooling the electrode. Hereinafter, the structure of the tip module will be described in more detail with reference to Figs. 4 and 5.

[0051] Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the main configuration of the tip module of Fig. 3, and Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the main configuration of the tip module of Fig. 3. Referring to Figs. 4 and 5, the tip module is configured to include a tip housing (110), an electrode module (140), a cooling flow path block (150), an internal case (120), and a rear cover (130).

[0052] The tip housing (110) and the inner case (120) are coupled to each other to support the electrode module (140). A cooling flow path block (150) is arranged inside the inner case (120). The rear cover (130) is coupled to the rear of the tip housing (110) while the electrode module (140), the inner case (120), and the cooling flow path block (150) are arranged inside the tip housing (110). The tip housing (110) or the rear cover (130) is provided with a coupling structure for being fastened to the end of the main body (21) of the handpiece.

[0053] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the electrode module (140) is configured as a flexible substrate that is foldable, and an electrical element and a circuit for electrically forming the same are formed therein. The electrode (60) is arranged at the front of the electrode module (based on the state in which the electrode module is folded) and is exposed through an opening of the tip housing (110) to come into contact with the skin surface. The electrode (60) is configured to include a conductive layer formed on the flexible substrate, and the conductive layer is configured to be covered by a dielectric layer. Therefore, during treatment, the conductive layer of the electrode comes into contact with the skin through the dielectric layer, and when RF energy is applied to the electrode, the electrode transmits the RF energy to the skin tissue while being capacitively coupled with the skin tissue by the dielectric layer.

[0054] Meanwhile, as described above, the temperature sensor and the contact sensor of the sensing unit are provided at a position adjacent to the electrode (60) in the electrode module (140) to measure the temperature of the electrode or the skin surface and detect whether the electrode is in contact with the skin. In addition, the electrode module (140) further includes a memory, and the memory can store information of the tip module, such as the type of electrode, the size of the electrode, the pattern of the electrode, the size of the cooling space, etc. The electrode module (140) is provided with a conductive lead that extends rearward and is connected to the electrode, each sensor, and the memory described above. A terminal formed at the end of the conductive lead is exposed rearward when the rear cover (130) is coupled, and is electrically connected to the RF circuit on the main body (21) side of the handpiece when the tip module (100) is coupled.

[0055] And, the cooling channel block (150) is provided with a cooling channel (151) that forms a path through which a refrigerant is delivered, and a cooling spray unit (152) for spraying the refrigerant delivered through the cooling channel to the rear surface of the electrode. The cooling channel (151) forms a conduit extending to the rear of the cooling spray unit, and an end is exposed to the rear side of the rear cover (130) when the tip module (100) is assembled. Therefore, when the tip module (100) is coupled to the main body (21) of the handpiece, the end of the cooling channel (151) is coupled with the cooling channel on the main body (21) side to form a path through which the refrigerant delivered from the refrigerant receiving unit is delivered. The refrigerant spray unit (152) is arranged in front of the cooling channel (151), and includes a plurality of branched conduits and a spray hole formed at the end of each conduit. Accordingly, the refrigerant transmitted through the cooling passage passes through the refrigerant injection unit (152) and is divided into a plurality of conduits and injected into the cooling space provided on the rear side of the electrode through the injection port.

[0056] The tip module (100) having such a structure is detachably coupled to the main body end of the handpiece as described above. When the tip module (100) is coupled, the control unit (40) receives information about the tip module from the memory of the tip module (100), and in consideration of the information, controls the RF energy generation unit (50) and the cooling unit (70) to transmit RF energy to the electrode of the tip module (100) and perform a process of cooling the electrode. In addition, the tip module (100) may be configured as a consumable, and may be replaced with a new tip module (100) when treating a new patient or exceeding the allowed number of uses.

[0057] As described above, the treatment device (1) using RF energy performs treatment by applying RF energy to the skin surface through the electrode (60). Here, the temperature of the electrode (60) at the start of treatment is likely to vary depending on the treatment environment and the patient's condition if there is no separate control. Specifically, the initial temperature of the electrode (60) may be affected by the room temperature of the treatment site and the temperature of the patient's skin surface with which the electrode comes into contact. However, the electrode (60) forms a path through which RF energy is transmitted during treatment, and the temperature of the electrode affects the electrical characteristics of the electrode. Accordingly, even if RF energy of the same parameter is applied, different treatment results may occur if the temperature of the electrode (60) is different.

[0058] To overcome these concerns, the treatment device (1) according to the present embodiment is configured to actively control the temperature of the electrode (60) prior to treatment so that treatment can be initiated while the electrode (60) maintains a constant temperature. Typically, the treatment device (1) cools the electrode or the skin surface to prevent damage to the skin surface while RF energy is being applied. In contrast, the treatment device of the present embodiment additionally performs a step of preliminarily cooling the electrode (60) prior to applying RF energy to the electrode.

[0059] Fig. 6 is a graph showing the temperature change of the electrode according to the precooling in Fig. 3. As described above, the control unit (40) controls the cooling unit (70) to perform precooling of the electrode (60). By the precooling control, the temperature of the electrode (60) is cooled from the initial temperature to a preset reference temperature, and the reference temperature (T ref ) is maintained. In the pre-cooling stage of the electrode, the initial temperature of the electrode is a temperature corresponding to the room temperature of the space where the treatment is performed (T room ) may be. And, the preset reference temperature (T ref) is a temperature lower than room temperature, and may be a value within the range of 0 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius, and more specifically, may be a value within the range of 5 degrees Celsius to 20 degrees Celsius. As an example, the reference temperature of the present embodiment may be 20 degrees Celsius.

[0060] Here, the reference temperature (T ref ) may have one value for all treatments, but it is also possible for the reference temperature to be set differently depending on any one of the user's settings, treatment mode, location of target tissue, output of RF energy, frequency, and pulse pattern. For example, in the case of a treatment mode targeting tissue adjacent to the skin surface (e.g., dermis) as the target location, the reference temperature (T) is set lower than in the case of a treatment mode targeting tissue located deep from the skin surface (e.g., subcutaneous fat). ref ) can be set low. As another example, when treating with RF energy with a high proportion of frequencies (e.g., 2-6 MHz) with excellent skin penetration characteristics, the reference temperature (T ref ) is set relatively high, and when treating with RF energy with a high proportion of frequencies (e.g., 6-10 MHz) with relatively poor skin penetration characteristics, the reference temperature (T) is relatively ref ) can be set low. As another example, when performing treatment with high output RF energy, the reference temperature (T) can be set low when performing treatment with low output RF energy. ref ) can be set low.

[0061] At this time, the control unit (40) performs pre-cooling based on the information of the tip module stored in the memory of the tip module (100). The stored tip module information may be at least one of the identification number of the tip module, the model of the tip module, the size of the tip module, the size of the electrode, or the size of the cooling space. Accordingly, the control unit (40) can detect the information of the tip module (100) connected to the handpiece, and spray an amount of coolant corresponding to the corresponding tip module to cool the electrode. For example, if the information of the tip module detected through the memory is a large-sized tip module, the control unit can control to pre-cool the electrode by spraying a relatively large amount of coolant, and if the information of the tip module is a small-sized tip module, the control unit can control to pre-cool the electrode by spraying a relatively applicable amount of coolant. In addition, when performing pre-cooling, the control unit (40) monitors the temperature of the electrode or the skin surface in contact with the electrode in real time from the temperature sensor of the tip module, and checks whether the temperature of the electrode is lower than the reference temperature (T). ref ) can be controlled by feedback to maintain the same level.

[0062] Hereinafter, with reference to Fig. 7, the cooling pattern and RF application pattern according to the treatment process are specifically described. Fig. 7 is a graph illustrating the cooling and RF application patterns applied to the electrode according to the treatment process. The horizontal axis of Fig. 7 represents the time axis along which the treatment process progresses, and the vertical axis represents the cooling performance of the cooling unit, RF energy output, and the temperature value sensed by the temperature sensor, respectively.

[0063] As shown in Fig. 7, the start time (t) of the preliminary cooling of the electrode (60) o) is performed prior to the RF application time (t2) of the electrode and the time (t1) when the electrode comes into contact with the skin. The control unit (40) initiates pre-cooling of the electrode when a preset condition is satisfied, and this is initiated regardless of the RF application time of the electrode or the time when the electrode comes into contact with the skin. That is, the interval between the pre-cooling start time of the electrode and the RF application time (t2) of the electrode or the interval between the pre-cooling start time of the electrode and the time when the electrode comes into contact with the skin is not constant and may vary depending on the user's usage pattern.

[0064] As an example, the tip module (100) may be configured to automatically initiate pre-cooling of the electrode when it is connected to the handpiece. In this case, the tip module is continuously cooled while connected to the handpiece to a reference temperature (T ref ) can be maintained. As another example, when a predetermined condition is satisfied while the tip module (100) is connected to the handpiece (20), pre-cooling can be initiated. Here, the predetermined condition may be a user directing pre-cooling through an operation, or a user setting a treatment mode.

[0065] During the pre-cooling step of the electrode (60), the control unit (40) controls the cooling unit (70) to pre-cool the electrode, and the user brings the cooled electrode (60) into contact with the skin surface corresponding to the treatment location. At this time, the temperature of the skin surface may be higher than the temperature of the electrode. Even when the electrode is in contact with the skin, the control unit (40) performs feedback control in real time based on the temperature value sensed by the temperature sensor to maintain the temperature of the electrode (60) at a preset reference temperature (T ref ) is controlled to maintain the temperature. Therefore, when the electrode and the skin are in contact, the cooling performance of the cooling unit can be increased somewhat to compensate for the increase due to the skin temperature.

[0066] At this time, since the skin surface is pre-cooled by contacting the pre-cooled electrode before RF application, the patient's pain during treatment can be reduced and thermal damage to the skin surface can be minimized. In addition, as the electrode (60) and the skin surface are in contact for a predetermined period of time, the skin surface can be cooled to the reference temperature of the electrode. In general, the patient's skin temperature varies depending on the patient's condition and characteristics. Considering that the temperature of the skin surface affects the electrical properties of the tissue and that treatment using RF energy is a thermal treatment method, a difference in the initial skin temperature can affect the treatment result. Therefore, when the skin surface is pre-cooled to a constant temperature by the pre-cooled electrode as in the present embodiment and treatment is performed, a uniform treatment effect can be expected despite differences in the treatment environment and patient characteristics.

[0067] Meanwhile, treatment is performed on skin tissue as RF energy is applied while the electrode (60) is in contact with the skin. During the treatment, the control unit controls the cooling unit (70) in real time based on the temperature value sensed by the temperature sensor to cool the electrode and the skin surface. Even if heat is generated at the electrode and the skin surface as RF energy is applied, the temperature of the electrode and the skin surface can be maintained in an appropriate range by this cooling control. However, the aforementioned appropriate range may be a temperature range higher than the reference temperature of the pre-cooling stage, and the cooling performance may also increase compared to immediately before the application of RF energy (the maintenance stage of the pre-cooling stage).

[0068] Then, when the treatment at that location is completed (t3), the user releases the electrode from the treatment location and moves the handpiece (20) to the next treatment location. At this time, the control unit (40) controls the cooling unit (70) to preliminarily cool the electrode while moving the handpiece (20) so that the temperature of the electrode, which has increased during the treatment, can be cooled back to the reference temperature. Accordingly, the electrode can initiate treatment at the next target location while maintaining the preset reference temperature (t4).

[0069] In this way, the electrode (60) is cooled through a pre-cooling step before treatment, a main cooling step during treatment, a pre-cooling step during movement, etc., and this cooling process is continuously performed while controlling the cooling performance. Here, the meaning of being performed continuously includes not only continuously providing a coolant to the electrode during the above steps, but also a method of continuously applying a coolant pulse at a predetermined cycle. Therefore, the present embodiment actively manages the temperature of the electrode continuously without a section where it is left unattended during the pre-cooling step and the main cooling step.

[0070] For this cooling control, the cooling unit (70) of the present embodiment uses a proportional control valve as a valve that opens and closes the cooling path. The proportional control valve is configured to adjust the opening and closing amount by the control of the control unit (40). In the conventional case, a valve having a constant opening and closing amount is used, and when additional cooling is required, it is controlled by increasing the pulse width of the cooling pulse or increasing the number of cooling pulses. However, this is a method that actually increases the cooling time, and there is no significant difference in the amount of refrigerant delivered per unit time, so that the cooling process proceeds continuously as in the present embodiment and it is disadvantageous for real-time feedback control. In contrast, when a proportional control valve is used as in the present embodiment, the opening and closing amount is adjusted while applying a cooling pulse to have a constant pulse width and cycle, thereby allowing the cooling performance to be adjusted in real time according to the cooling process.

[0071] For this cooling control, the valve of the cooling unit according to the present embodiment is configured to open and close the cooling channel, as well as to control the cooling performance by adjusting the opening and closing amount when the channel is opened. In conventional treatment devices, a valve that simply performs an opening and closing operation and forms a channel with a constant opening and closing amount when the channel is opened was used. Therefore, when additional cooling is required, control was performed by increasing the pulse width of the cooling pulse or increasing the number of cooling pulses applied. However, this method actually increases the cooling time, and there is no significant difference in the amount of refrigerant delivered per unit time, which is disadvantageous for continuously performing the cooling process as in the present embodiment or for feedback control based on sensed information. In contrast, when a valve capable of controlling the opening and closing amount of the channel is used as in the present embodiment, the cooling performance can be controlled in real time according to the cooling process by changing the amount of refrigerant delivered per unit time by adjusting the size of the channel cross-sectional area while applying a cooling pulse with a constant pulse width and cycle.

[0072] As an example, the valve according to the present embodiment can operate in at least three modes. In the first mode, the flow path is opened by a first cross-sectional area (e.g., fully opened), in the second mode, the flow path is opened by a second cross-sectional area (e.g., half opened), and in the third mode, the flow path is completely closed. In this case, even if a cooling pulse is applied with a constant pulse width and cycle, the cooling performance can be variously adjusted by controlling the opening and closing amount of the valve. Although an example of operation in three modes is described above, this is for convenience of explanation, and it is also possible to operate in three or more multiple modes with different opening and closing amounts, or to configure the opening and closing amount to be linearly adjusted according to a signal. The valve of the cooling unit according to the present embodiment is configured using, for example, a proportional control valve. However, in addition to this, it is also possible to configure a valve that controls the opening and closing amount of the flow path using a servo valve, a solenoid valve, a shutter, a motor, etc.

[0073] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a treatment device using RF energy according to one embodiment. Hereinafter, an example of the control method for the treatment device using RF energy according to the present embodiment will be described in detail using FIG. 8.

[0074] To perform treatment, the user attaches the tip module (100) to the main body of the handpiece (20) (S10). The control unit (40) detects that the tip module (100) has been attached and receives information about the tip module from a memory provided in the tip module (S20). As described above, the information about the tip module includes at least one of the identification number of the tip module, the model of the tip module, the size of the tip module, the size of the electrode, or the size of the cooling space.

[0075] Upon receiving information about the tip module, the control unit (40) controls the cooling unit (70) to perform a pre-cooling step (S30). The pre-cooling step may be automatically initiated upon receiving information about the tip module after the tip module (100) is connected. Alternatively, the pre-cooling step may be initiated by a user's operation instructing pre-cooling while information about the tip module has been received. Accordingly, the pre-cooling step is initiated before treatment using RF energy is performed and is performed before the electrode of the handpiece comes into contact with the skin surface.

[0076] Fig. 9 is a flowchart illustrating detailed steps of the precooling step of Fig. 8, and Fig. 10 is a graph illustrating the cooling pattern and temperature change of the precooling step of Fig. 7.

[0077] The pre-cooling step (S30) consists of at least two phases, including a cooling phase (S30a) and a maintenance phase (S30b). The cooling phase (S30a) is to raise the temperature of the electrode to a preset reference temperature (T ref ) is a phase that rapidly cools to a level adjacent to the reference temperature (T), and the maintenance phase (S30b) is a phase that rapidly cools the temperature of the electrode cooled through the cooling phase to a level adjacent to the reference temperature (T ref ) is the phase that controls the state.

[0078] As illustrated in Fig. 10, in the cooling phase (S30a), a relatively large amount of refrigerant is transferred to the electrode per unit time in order to cool the initial temperature of the electrode corresponding to room temperature. In the cooling phase (S30a), the control unit (40) determines the required cooling performance based on the set reference temperature, the current temperature (room temperature or sensed temperature), and the tip module information transferred from the memory of the tip module, and controls the cooling unit (70) based thereon. For example, when the difference between the reference temperature and the current temperature is large or the size of the tip module is large, the control unit controls to increase the opening / closing amount of the proportional control valve to increase the cooling performance or to increase the duration of the cooling phase.

[0079] This cooling phase (S30a) can also be controlled by a feedback control method based on a temperature sensor. However, in this embodiment, the storage unit stores control parameters of the cooling phase according to the reference temperature, the current temperature, and the tip module information, and the control unit performs the cooling phase by controlling the cooling unit according to the stored parameters without feedback control.

[0080] The maintenance phase (S30b) is a reference temperature (T ref ) to maintain a constant temperature of the cooled electrode adjacent to the electrode, a relatively small amount of refrigerant is delivered to the electrode per unit time. The maintenance phase (S30b) can also control the cooling unit by a feedback control method based on a temperature sensor, and can be controlled according to the control parameters stored in the storage unit, like the cooling phase described above.

[0081] However, if the user touches the handpiece electrode to the user's skin surface prior to RF application, the temperature of the skin surface may affect the temperature of the electrode. Therefore, if the contact sensor detects that the electrode is in contact with the skin surface (t1) during the maintenance phase (S30b), the control unit (40) controls the cooling unit (70) to set the temperature of the electrode to the reference temperature (T ref ) is controlled to maintain a constant temperature. At this time, the control unit (40) feedback-controls the cooling unit (70) based on the temperature value sensed by the temperature sensor while the electrode is in contact with the skin. Accordingly, during the maintenance phase (S30b), while the electrode is in contact with the skin, the cooling unit (70) can be controlled to operate with a relatively higher cooling performance than when not in contact. In addition, as the maintenance phase continues for a predetermined period of time while the electrode is in contact with the skin, not only the temperature of the electrode but also the temperature of the skin surface can be pre-cooled to a temperature close to the reference temperature.

[0082] Again, referring to FIG. 8, when the preliminary cooling step is performed in the aforementioned manner, the control unit (40) performs a step of applying RF energy to the electrode for treatment (S40). The control unit (40) controls the RF energy generation unit and the RF circuit based on the set treatment mode to transmit RF energy in a preset pattern. While the RF energy is being applied, the cooling unit (70) performs the main cooling step, and in this step, the control unit (40) controls the cooling unit (70) so that the temperature of the skin surface is maintained within an appropriate range. Here, the appropriate range is a temperature range at which no damage occurs to the skin surface, and the control unit (40) monitors the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor in real time during the application of RF energy, and feedback-controls the cooling process of the cooling unit based on the sensed value.

[0083] Here, the cooling unit (70) of the present embodiment includes a proportional control valve, and the control unit controls the operation of the cooling unit (70) by considering not only the temperature value sensed by the temperature sensor but also the temperature change per hour. For example, even if the temperature value itself measured by the temperature sensor is maintained within an appropriate range, if the temperature change rate is detected to rise beyond a preset range, the control unit (40) controls the opening / closing amount of the proportional control valve to increase. In this case, since the control of the cooling unit (70) is not performed as a result of the temperature rise, but rather can be performed in advance by predicting the temperature rise, safe treatment is possible.

[0084] Through the aforementioned steps, when the target level of RF energy is applied to the treatment location, the energy application step ends, and treatment for that location is terminated (S50). While Figure 9 illustrates a step where treatment is normally terminated, treatment may be terminated in an emergency for patient safety if an abnormality occurs during treatment.

[0085] Fig. 11 is a graph illustrating the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor. As described above, in the treatment stage, the control unit (40) controls the cooling unit (70) based on the temperature value and temperature change rate sensed by the temperature sensor. However, ideally, the sensed temperature is a threshold value (T thr ) or if the temperature change rate exceeds the critical change rate, it is terminated urgently without performing additional treatment. In this case, the control unit (40) maximizes the opening and closing amount of the proportional control valve to perform cooling at maximum performance, and controls the RF energy generation unit (50) to block RF energy from being transmitted to the electrode.

[0086] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a treatment device using RF energy according to another embodiment. The embodiment illustrated in Figure 12 performs the same steps as the embodiment illustrated in Figure 8 described above, while also performing some additional steps. Accordingly, steps identical to those in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 8 are omitted from the description of Figure 8.

[0087] In this embodiment, by performing the pre-cooling step, the temperature of the electrode is lowered to the reference temperature (T ref ) is cooled, the control unit (40) further performs a step of notifying the user of this (S31). Whether the reference temperature is reached can be determined based on the value sensed by the temperature sensor. The point in time when the reference temperature is reached can be the same as the point in time when the aforementioned cooling phase ends, and can be slightly later than the point in time when the cooling phase ends in consideration of the heat conduction time difference. The control unit (40) can notify the user of the point in time when the reference temperature is reached through an alarm sound, etc., and the user can proceed with treatment by bringing the handpiece into contact with the skin surface after hearing this notification (S32).

[0088] Meanwhile, as described above, when an electrode cooled to a reference temperature is brought into contact with the skin, the skin surface is cooled. Then, when a predetermined period of time has elapsed while in contact, the skin surface is cooled to a temperature corresponding to the reference temperature, and treatment can be performed while forming the skin surface temperature at the same temperature. Therefore, although not separately illustrated in FIG. 12, when the electrode of the handpiece comes into contact with the skin (S32), the control unit (40) may further perform a step of measuring the elapsed time from the time of contact and notifying the user of the elapsed time through an audible alarm. Accordingly, the user can recognize that the predetermined time has elapsed and confirm that the skin surface has been pre-cooled to a constant temperature before proceeding with the treatment, thereby allowing safe and uniform treatment to be performed. However, instead of notifying the user of the elapsed time through a separate audible alarm, it is also possible for the control unit (40) to control RF energy to be applied after a predetermined period of time has elapsed from the time of skin contact, even if the user instructs RF application through the operating unit.

[0089] Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating a treatment method using a treatment device utilizing RF energy according to another embodiment. Unlike the previously described embodiments of Figures 8 and 12, which focus on the control method for a single treatment location, Figure 13 illustrates a method for treating multiple treatment locations by moving the handpiece.

[0090] As illustrated in Fig. 13, once the tip module is connected, a step of pre-cooling the electrode is performed, and a step of treating the first location while the electrode is in contact with the first treatment location is performed. Up to this step, the steps are performed in the same manner as the steps illustrated in Fig. 8 or Fig. 12, so detailed descriptions of each step are omitted from the preceding description.

[0091] When the treatment for the first position is completed through the above step (S100), the user moves the handpiece (20) to the second position (S200) and performs the treatment step for the second position (S300). However, due to the application of RF energy during the treatment for the first position, the temperature of the electrode is higher than the reference temperature at the time when the treatment for the first position is completed. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a step of preliminarily cooling the temperature of the electrode back to the reference temperature is performed before the treatment for the second position is performed, and this step can be performed during the step of moving the handpiece (see FIG. 7).

[0092] Specifically, the pre-cooling phase after completion of the first location treatment may be initiated at the point in time when the RF energy application at the first location is terminated. Alternatively, it may be initiated at the point in time when the electrode is released from contact with the skin surface at the first location. Alternatively, it may be initiated at the point in time when movement is detected by the movement sensor after completion of the first location treatment.

[0093] In this preliminary cooling step performed in the moving step, the control unit (40) can control the cooling unit (70) based on the temperature of the sensed electrode, the reference temperature, and the information of the tip module. Specifically, the control unit can perform this step by dividing it into a cooling phase (S30a) and a maintenance phase (S30b), as described in FIGS. 9 and 10.

[0094] In this embodiment, after the treatment for the first location is completed, the temperature of the electrode is returned to the reference temperature (T ref ) can be used to treat the second location. In Fig. 13, the steps for treating the first location and the second location are described, but even when treating more locations, treatment can be performed after a pre-cooling step during movement. Accordingly, even when treating multiple locations, treatment is performed while maintaining a constant electrode temperature, so that a uniform treatment effect can be obtained.

[0095] While the embodiments described above focus on the treatment field using monopolar electrodes, the present invention is not limited thereto and can also be applied to the treatment field using bipolar electrodes. Furthermore, the aforementioned method can be applied to the treatment of skin tissues in various areas, such as the face, neck, abdomen, and thighs, using RF energy.

[0096] While embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, the present invention is not limited to the aforementioned embodiments. It should be understood that those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the technical features defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A handpiece equipped with an electrode that contacts the skin surface and transmits RF energy; An RF energy generating unit that generates RF energy transmitted to the above electrode; A cooling unit provided to cool the above electrode; and A treatment device using RF energy, comprising: a control unit that controls the operations of the RF energy generating unit and the cooling unit, and controls the cooling unit to preliminarily cool the electrode before RF energy is applied to the electrode.

2. In paragraph 1, A treatment device using RF energy, wherein the control unit controls the electrode to preliminarily cool the electrode so that the electrode forms a preset reference temperature when RF energy is not applied.

3. In paragraph 2, A treatment device using RF energy, characterized in that the above reference temperature is lower than room temperature.

4. In paragraph 2, A treatment device using RF energy, characterized in that the above reference temperature has a value within a range of 0 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius.

5. In paragraph 2, A treatment device using RF energy, wherein the above reference temperature is configured to be adjustable by the treatment mode or the user's settings.

6. In paragraph 1, A treatment device using RF energy, characterized in that the control unit controls the electrode to be preliminarily cooled regardless of the time when the electrode comes into contact with the skin surface or the time when RF energy is applied to the electrode.

7. In paragraph 1, The above control unit controls the cooling unit to cool the electrode while RF energy is applied through the electrode, A treatment device using RF energy, wherein the cooling unit is controlled so that the process of preliminarily cooling the electrode and the process of cooling the electrode while the RF energy is applied are continuously performed.

8. In paragraph 1, The handpiece further includes a tip module having the electrode on one side thereof and detachably coupled to the main body end of the handpiece, A treatment device using RF energy, wherein when the tip module is coupled to the main body of the handpiece, the control unit automatically controls the electrode to preliminarily cool it.

9. In paragraph 1, The handpiece further includes a tip module having the electrode on one side thereof and detachably coupled to the main body end of the handpiece, A treatment device using RF energy, wherein the tip module further includes a memory that stores information of the tip module, and the control unit controls the electrode to be preliminarily cooled based on the information of the tip module stored in the memory.

10. In the first paragraph, the cooling unit, A refrigerant receiving portion for receiving refrigerant, a cooling passage at least partially provided within the handpiece and forming a path through which the refrigerant received in the refrigerant receiving portion is delivered to the electrode, and a valve for controlling the amount of refrigerant delivered through the cooling passage. A treatment device using RF energy, wherein the valve is configured to control the opening and closing amount of the flow path to control cooling performance.

11. In paragraph 1, The handpiece further includes a contact sensor positioned adjacent to the electrode to detect the contact state between the patient's skin and the electrode. The above control unit is a treatment device using RF energy that controls the RF energy to be transmitted after a preset time has elapsed from the time the electrode comes into contact with the patient's skin surface.

12. In paragraph 1, A treatment device using RF energy, characterized in that the control unit controls the cooling unit to preliminarily cool the electrode while the user moves the handpiece to a second position after treating the first position.

13. A step of detecting that a tip module having an electrode on one side for contacting the skin surface and transmitting RF energy is coupled to one end of the handpiece; A step of preliminarily cooling the electrode by a cooling unit prior to transmitting RF energy through the electrode; and; A method for controlling a treatment device using RF energy, comprising: a step of applying RF energy generated from an RF energy generating unit to the cooled electrode.

14. In paragraph 13, The above preliminary cooling step is a control method for a treatment device using RF energy, wherein the electrode is cooled to form a preset temperature without the electrode coming into contact with the skin surface.

15. In paragraph 13, A method for controlling a treatment device using RF energy, wherein the cooling unit is controlled to continuously cool the electrode from the stage where the electrode is preliminarily cooled until the treatment is completed.

16. In paragraph 13, A method for controlling a treatment device using RF energy, wherein the control unit automatically controls the cooling unit to preliminarily cool the electrode when the control unit detects that the tip module is coupled to the handpiece.

17. In paragraph 13, If it is detected that the tip module is coupled to the handpiece, the method further comprises the step of receiving information about the tip module from a memory provided in the tip module, A method for controlling a treatment device using RF energy, wherein the control unit controls the cooling unit based on the information about the received tip module to preliminarily cool the electrode.

18. In paragraph 13, A method for controlling a treatment device using RF energy, wherein the step of applying the RF energy is controlled to apply the RF energy after a preset time has elapsed from the time the electrode comes into contact with the patient's skin surface.

19. In paragraph 13, A method for controlling a treatment device using RF energy, further comprising the step of cooling the electrode heated while the RF energy is applied while moving the handpiece to a different position after applying the RF energy.

20. A step of preliminarily cooling the electrode that contacts the skin surface and transmits RF energy to a preset temperature; and A treatment method using RF energy, comprising the step of contacting an electrode cooled to the preset temperature to the skin surface to apply RF energy.

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