Temperature simulator for thermocouple-based RF ablation system

摘要

Testing a thermocouple-based RF ablation system is carried out by connecting a temperature simulator to an ablator module. The ablator module is operative to vary a radiofrequency power output thereof in a predefined manner in response to predefined variations in a temperature signal from the simulator. The method is further carried out by delivering RF power from the ablator module to the temperature simulator, and while delivering RF power, performing the steps of: communicating temperature signals from the temperature simulator to the ablator module, varying the communicated temperature signals, and verifying that a variation in the power output of the ablator module in response to varying the temperature signals conforms to the predefined manner.

主权项

1. An apparatus for testing a tissue ablation system, comprising:
emulation circuitry connectable to an ablator module being tested, the ablator module having an adjustable radiofrequency (RF) power output and a monitor display, the emulation circuitry comprising: a first arm comprising a first thermocouple metallic material linked to the power output of the ablator module; a second arm comprising a second thermocouple metallic material connected to the monitor display; a return pathway extending from the first arm to the ablator module, the return pathway permitting passage of RF current and blocking direct current (DC); an adjustable voltage source producing a DC potential and connected via an output circuit across the first arm and the second arm, the output circuit having a greater resistance to RF current than to direct current.