Patent ID: 8187270
Filing Date: 2012-05-29
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A catheter for insertion into tissue of a patient for treatment, comprising: a radio frequency (RF) electrode having an elongated body and a conductive tip at a distal end of the elongated body, wherein the elongated body is configured to conduct electrical RF energy to the conductive tip; and an insulating sleeve surrounding the elongated body of the RF electrode, wherein the insulating sleeve is configured to prevent electrical RF energy conducted by the elongated body from being transmitted by the elongated body to the tissue of the patient surrounding the elongated body when the catheter is being inserted into the tissue of the patient, wherein, in a first mode of operation for insertion of the catheter into the tissue of the patient, the conductive tip of the RF electrode is exposed outside the insulating sleeve and the RF electrode is configured to deliver, via the conductive tip, first RF energy capable of producing sparks that erode the tissue of the patient and create a tunnel through which the catheter can advance into the tissue of the patient, and wherein, in a second mode of operation for treatment of the tissue in the patient, the insulating sleeve is retractable to expose a portion of the RF electrode between the conductive tip and the insulating sleeve, and the RF electrode is configured to conduct second RF energy to the tissue in the patient, wherein the second RF energy is capable of heating the tissue surrounding the RF electrode for necrotization of the tissue without producing sparks.