Patent ID: 7799019

Claim:
A microwave antenna assembly for applying microwave energy therapy comprising: a proximal radiating portion having an inner conductor and an outer conductor, each extending therethrough, the inner conductor disposed within the outer conductor; a distal radiating portion disposed distally of the proximal portion, with the inner conductor extending at least partially therein; a junction member having a longitudinal thickness, wherein at least a portion of the junction member is disposed between the proximal and distal portions such that the inner conductor extends therethrough; a reinforcing member disposed longitudinally at least partially within the junction member and electrically integral with the inner conductor, the reinforcing member having a diameter greater than a diameter of the inner conductor to provide increased stiffness to the junction member; a conductor disposed on a distal end of the reinforcing member and configured to contact an inner perimeter of the distal radiating portion to electrically connect the inner conductor to the distal radiating portion; and a sensor selected from the group consisting of a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, and a flow sensor.