Patent ID: 7507233
Filing Date: 2009-03-24
Classification: A61B,F25D

Abstract:
1. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer-readable program embodied therein for directing operation of a cryotherapy system including a plurality of cryoprobes, each such cryoprobe having a shaft with a closed distal end adapted for insertion into a body and conduits for flowing a cryogenic fluid through the shaft to reduce a temperature of the distal end, a source of the cryogenic fluid, a plurality of flow-control metering valves in fluid communication with the conduits of the plurality of cryoprobes and with the source of the cryogenic fluid, a compressor in fluid communication with the conduits of the plurality of cryoprobes to define a self-contained fluid system, and a computer processor, wherein the computer-readable program includes: instructions for controlling the plurality of flow-control metering valves and the compressor to provide desired flows of the cryogenic fluid through the conduits of the self-contained fluid system and instructions to control the compressor and the plurality of flow-control metering valves to provide an initial flow of the cryogenic fluid through the conduits of the cryoprobes under physical conditions near a critical point of a liquid-vapor system for the cryogenic fluid, wherein the critical point defines a point in a phase diagram of the liquid-vapor system where molar volumes are substantially equivalent for liquid and gas, whereby vapor lock associated with freezing of the cryoprobes is avoided.