Patent ID: 7377918
Filing Date: 2008-05-27
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A method of forming a lesion in body tissue comprising: providing a probe capable of contacting body tissue to be treated, the probe including at least one electrode and an insulative member covering at least a portion of the electrode; delivering electromagnetic energy to the probe such as to raise the temperature of the tissue in contact with the probe; measuring a temperature of the electrode; comparing the temperature of the electrode with a predetermined electrode target temperature; increasing the delivery of the electromagnetic energy until the electrode reaches the predetermined electrode target temperature; controlling the delivery of the electromagnetic energy such that the electrode is maintained at the predetermined electrode target temperature; measuring a temperature of the insulative member; comparing the temperature of the insulative member with a predetermined insulation threshold temperature; and adjusting the predetermined electrode target temperature by a preset downward margin when the temperature of the insulative member reaches the predetermined insulation threshold temperature.