Patent ID: 7326204
Filing Date: 2008-02-05
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A catheter, the catheter comprising an outer sheath having a distal end; an inner sheath having a distal end; an annular channel defined between said outer sheath and said inner sheath, wherein said annular channel is adapted to carry fluid; a mechanical interface supported at least in part by said distal end of said inner sheath; a flexible electrode adapted to apply ablative energy to target tissue, wherein said flexible electrode is supported by said mechanical interface, wherein said flexible electrode comprises an embedded portion and an exposed portion, and wherein said exposed portion extends from said distal end of said outer sheath and comprises a working surface; a primary conductor adapted to carry ablative energy from an energy source to said flexible electrode, wherein said primary conductor comprises an uninsulated portion in electrical contact with said flexible electrode; and a flexible boot at said distal end of said outer sheath, said flexible boot defining an annular fluid jacket around a booted portion of said flexible electrode, wherein said booted portion comprises at least a portion of said exposed portion of said flexible electrode, and wherein said annular fluid jacket is adapted to carry fluid that is in fluid communication with said annular channel, and said booted portion directly contacting the flexible electrode to direct the fluid to the flexible electrode.