Patent ID: 6899710
Filing Date: 2005-05-31
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. Combination ablation and visualization apparatus for ablating cardiac tissue of a patient comprising: an elongated body including a first end and a second end opposite to the first end; first and second jaws carried at the first end and movable between a spaced-apart open position and a closed position, each jaw comprising an electrode for connection to a terminal of an RF energy generator for ablating cardiac tissue located between the jaws; a dissecting member carried by the jaws for separating adjoining cardiac tissues to obtain access to or visualization of a selected epicardial surface, the dissecting member including at least one aperture being formed therein; and a fluid pathway in fluid communication with the at least one aperture formed in the dissecting member and extending along the body to the second end whereby fluid may be introduced through the apparatus to clear an operative field to enhance visualization of a site for ablation by the jaws.