Methods for renal neuromodulation

摘要

Catheter apparatuses, systems, and methods for achieving renal neuromodulation by intravascular access are disclosed herein. One aspect of the present application, for example, is directed to apparatuses, systems, and methods that incorporate a catheter treatment device comprising an elongated shaft. The elongated shaft is sized and configured to deliver an energy delivery element to a renal artery via an intravascular path. Thermal or electrical renal neuromodulation may be achieved via direct and/or via indirect application of thermal and/or electrical energy to heat or cool, or otherwise electrically modulate, neural fibers that contribute to renal function, or of vascular structures that feed or perfuse the neural fibers.

主权项

1. A method of treating a human patient diagnosed with hypertension, the method comprising:
advancing a catheter through a radial artery of the patient and into a renal artery of the patient, the catheter having an elongated shaft extending along an axis and comprising a distal portion including a controlled flexure zone and a single distal electrode adjacent to and extending distally beyond the controlled flexure zone; establishing contact between the electrode and an interior wall of the renal artery, wherein the controlled flexure zone is configured for controlled flexure about the axis to position the electrode in contact with the interior wall; delivering a thermal fluid infusate through the electrode and into the renal artery; and delivering energy via the electrode to ablate target tissue along the renal artery.