Patent ID: 7625372
Filing Date: 2009-12-01
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. An energy-emitting probe for use in treating a hollow anatomical structure, said probe comprising: a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end; a distal sharp tip configured to puncture body tissue as said tip is urged against said tissue; a tapering electrode arrangement located at said distal end of said shaft and proximal of said sharp tip, said electrode arrangement comprising first and second rigid electrodes surrounding said shaft, said second electrode located proximal of said first electrode; said electrode arrangement having an overall tapered configuration extending from a distal outer edge of said first electrode to a proximal outer edge of said second electrode; said first electrode located proximal of said sharp tip and extending radially outward of said sharp tip; said first electrode having a generally tapered configuration wherein a proximal outer edge of said first electrode is located radially outward of said distal outer edge thereof; said first electrode having a first outer electrode surface extending from said distal outer edge of said first electrode to said proximal outer edge thereof, said first outerelectrode surface having an outwardly curved profile such that said first outer electrode surface projects radially outward beyond said proximal outer edge of said first electrode; further comprising an insulative outer portion that extends proximally from a proximal end of said first electrode to a distal end of said second electrode, said insulative outer portion tapering outward as it extends proximally; said second electrode having a generally tapered configuration wherein said proximal outer edge of said second electrode is located radially outward of a distal outer edge thereof; said second electrode having a second outer electrode surface extending from said distal outer edge of said second electrode to said proximal outer edge thereof, said second outer electrode surface having an outwardly curved profile such that said second outer electrode surface projects radially outward beyond said proximal outer edge of said second electrode.