Patent ID: 6518538
Filing Date: 2003-02-11
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
An apparatus for treating a skin surface of a patient, comprising:a probe having an opening to be in contact with the skin surface, the probe further having a first input port and a second input port; a radio frequency generator that provides a radio frequency voltage; a vacuum pump that provides a vacuum; a suction pipe connected between the vacuum pump and the probe, the suction pipe providing the vacuum to the probe via the first input port; a coaxial cable that provides the radio frequency voltage to the probe via the second input port; an electrode disposed within the probe and connected to the coaxial cable, the electrode configured to receive the radio frequency power generator and to provide a glow discharge when the vacuum is provided to the probe by way of the vacuum and the vacuum pump, wherein the glow discharge provides a substantially uniform heating of the skin surface down to at least a predetermined depth beneath the skin surface.