Patent ID: 8469951

Claim:
A tissue interface module for use with an applicator in a microwave-based tissue modification system, the tissue interface module comprising an applicator chamber on a proximal side of the tissue interface module, the applicator chamber comprising: an opening adapted to receive the applicator; an attachment mechanism positioned in the applicator chamber and adapted to attach the tissue interface module to the applicator; a sealing member positioned at a proximal side of the applicator chamber; a vacuum interface positioned at a proximal side of the applicator chamber and adapted to receive a vacuum inlet positioned on a distal end of the applicator; a tissue acquisition chamber on a distal side of the tissue interface module, the tissue acquisition chamber comprising a tissue acquisition opening on a distal side of the tissue interface module; a flexible bio-barrier positioned between, and in fluid communication with, the applicator chamber and the tissue acquisition chamber, the flexible bio-barrier being substantially impermeable to air or fluids; an airflow pathway within the tissue interface module, the airflow pathway connecting the applicator chamber and the tissue acquisition chamber; a filter disposed in the airflow pathway connecting the applicator chamber and the tissue acquisition chamber, the filter being permeable to air and substantially impermeable to fluids.