Patent ID: 9554852
Date: 2017-01-31
CPC Classifications: A61B

Claim:
1. An electrosurgical apparatus for use in ventral only ablation of the tongue, comprising, in combination: (i) retractor device for immobilizing the tongue in connection with a ventral only ablation of the tongue procedure, comprising an elongate member comprising a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end of the elongate member angled downward to engage the dorsal surface of the base of the tongue; a handle adjacent the proximal end of the elongate member; a clamp adapted to slide along a first portion of the elongate member adjacent the handle; a retractor portion attached to and extending downwardly from the clamp, the retractor portion comprising a proximal portion attached to the clamp and a distal engaging portion adapted to engage the ventral undersurface of the tongue when the clamp is slid toward the distal end of the elongate member; and (ii) an elongate RF energy radiating member adapted for ventral insertion into the tongue from the ventral undersurface of the tongue, the RF radiating member having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end radiating RF energy when inserted ventrally into the tongue; a handle adjacent the proximal end of the elongate member; and an adjustable stop selectively settable along the length of the elongate member for inhibiting further insertion of the elongate member upon contacting of the retractor portion of the retractor device when inserted into the ventral surface of the tongue.