Patent ID: 8512333
Filing Date: 2013-08-20
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. An ablation instrument, comprising: (a) an elongated support member having a proximal portion and a distal portion, said elongated support member defining an elongated support surface, and an elongated support member axis; (b) at least one conductor extending along at least a portion of the length of said elongated support member surface and mounted for axial movement of at least a portion of said conductor; (c) a plurality of ablation stylets, each of said stylets being made of metal and having an elongated exposed metal distal portion, said exposed metal distal portion having a length roughly commeasurate with the region to be ablated, said stylets being supported proximate the distal portion of said elongated support member, said stylets comprising a resiliently deflectable material, and said stylets being mounted for axial movement of at least a portion of said stylets; (d) a head positioned to receive the distal portion of said stylets, said head comprising a head end; and (e) open deflection surfaces positioned proximate said head end and proximate said distal portion of said elongated support member, said deflection surfaces being configured and positioned, in response to advancement of said stylets toward said head end, to deflect at least some of said stylets laterally and only forwardly with respect to said elongated support axis causing said stylets to exit said deflection surfaces and move along substantially straight external paths external to said elongated support member and said head.