Abstract:
A transvenous bipolar lead (1) specifically designed for coronary sinus implantation. The lead has essentially two main characteristics, the distal end has a 45-degree pre-shape to facilitate introduction of the lead through a catheter and provide optimal positioning of the lead (1) within the coronary sinus. The lead further features a distal electrode tip (20) which itself is canted at an angle of 45 degrees on the distal end of the lead to provide a very close contact with the coronary sinus upper wall and, thus, with the left atrium inferolateral wall. In addition, each of these sections (51, 53) is flexible to permit the lead to be introduced through a relatively small-sized guide-catheter. Finally, the lead further features a center lumen to also permit the lead to be straightened for introduction with a stylet.
Abstract:
A one-piece, single-use disposable device (10) for transurethral needle ablation (TUNA) of prostate tissue to alleviate BPH is disclosed. The device may include a flexible catheter tip (60) including a rigid core (62) and a flexible tip (64). The device may also include a single use lockout (80) to help ensure that the device is used to perform only one ablation procedure on a single patient. The device may further include a simplified needle deployment mechanism (100) and/or an automatic needle retraction mechanism (150).
Abstract:
Methods and apparatus for ablating a target tissue are discussed. Such methods and apparatus include those that simplify tissue ablation. For example, a tissue ablation device having an actuator, such as a trigger mechanism, coupled to a power source and an electrode is discussed. A single step of engaging the actuator causes the electrode to be introduced into the target tissue and causes energy to be delivered from the power supply to the tissue via the electrode. Devices that include an electrode actuator for causing the electrode to be introduced into the target tissue and a fluid actuator for causing the fluid to flow to the target tissue are also discussed. Methods of causing the electrode to be introduced into the target tissue and fluid to flow to the target tissue with a single step and more than one step are also discussed.
Abstract:
An implantable medical or intramuscular lead system, such as for use as a gastric lead, for use in which electrodes along the lead are imbedded in tissue. The system includes a clip having two arms biased to a closed position clamping the lead. The arms of the clip are movable against the bias to an open position allowing the clip to be moved along the length of the lead, or the clip to be attached or removed in the lateral direction. The system facilitates implantation of the lead in tissue, and may be particularly suited for minimally invasive implantation, such as laparoscopically.
Abstract:
An implantable therapy delivery system has a therapy delivery element (26) that is inserted or implanted into a human body and anchored or fixed to tissue to delivery a therapy to a patient. In one embodiment an implantable neurostimulator (22) uses an electrical stimulation lead (26) to delivery a therapy such as sacral nerve stimulation, peripheral nerve stimulation, and the like. In another embodiment the implantable therapeutic substance delivery device, also known as a drug pump, is connected to a catheter to deliver a therapy to treat conditions such as spasticity, cancer, pain, and the like. The therapy delivery element is anchored to tissue using an adjustable anchor (20) having a therapy grip element, at least two extension elements connected to the therapy grip element, and a tissue fixation element connected to the extension elements. The extensions project substantially perpendicular in relation to the therapy delivery element and are configured to actuate the therapy grip element to an opened position and a closed position. A tissue fixation element is connected to the extensions and configured for fixation to a tissue location from an axial direction to the therapy delivery element. The adjustable anchor facilitates minimally invasive procedures, facilitates securing the therapy delivery element in the same plane as the therapy delivery element was inserted, facilitates rapid placement to reduce procedure time, and provides a wide range of other benefits. The adjustable anchor and its methods of operation have many embodiments.
Abstract:
Methods and apparatus for ablating a target tissue are discussed. Such methods and apparatus include those that simplify tissue ablation. For example, a tissue ablation device having an actuator, such as a trigger mechanism, coupled to a power source and an electrode is discussed. A single step of engaging the actuator causes the electrode to be introduced into the target tissue and causes energy to be delivered from the power supply to the tissue via the electrode. Devices that include an electrode actuator for causing the electrode to be introduced into the target tissue and a fluid actuator for causing the fluid to flow to the target tissue are also discussed. Methods of causing the electrode to be introduced into the target tissue and fluid to flow to the target tissue with a single step and more than one step are also discussed.