Patent ID: 7163535
Filing Date: 2007-01-16
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A system for detecting leaks and occlusions in a cryoablation catheter which comprises: a catheter tube defining a lumen, said catheter tube having a proximal end and a distal end; a tip member attached to said distal end of said catheter tube to surround said distal end thereof to form a cryo-chamber; a supply line coaxially positioned in said lumen of said catheter tube to define a return path between said supply line and said catheter tube, wherein said supply line has a distal end and a proximal end, with said distal end of said supply line positioned in said cryo-chamber; a source of fluid refrigerant; a supply valve for connecting said source of fluid refrigerant in fluid communication with said supply line for selectively introducing fluid refrigerant into said supply line when said supply valve is in an open position, and for preventing the flow of fluid refrigerant into said supply line when said supply valve is in a closed position; a vacuum source in fluid communication with said return path; a means for detecting leaks in the system by measuring a tip pressure “p a means for detecting occlusions in the system by measuring the tip pressure “p