Catheter apparatuses having multi-electrode arrays for renal neuromodulation and associated systems and methods

摘要

Catheter apparatuses, systems, and methods for achieving renal neuromodulation by intravascular access are disclosed herein. One aspect of the present technology, for example, is directed to a treatment device having a multi-electrode array configured to be delivered to a renal blood vessel. The array is selectively transformable between a delivery or low-profile state (e.g., a generally straight shape) and a deployed state (e.g., a radially expanded, generally helical shape). The multi-electrode array is sized and shaped so that the electrodes or energy delivery elements contact an interior wall of the renal blood vessel when the array is in the deployed (e.g., helical) state. The electrodes or energy delivery elements are configured for direct and/or indirect application of thermal and/or electrical energy to heat 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 catheter apparatus, comprising:
an elongated shaft having a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the distal portion of the shaft is configured for intravascular delivery to a renal artery of a human patient; a tubular control member slidably received within the distal portion of the shaft and extending distally therefrom along a central axis; a treatment section affixed to and extending distally of the distal portion of the elongated shaft and spirally disposed about the control member; and a plurality of energy delivery elements carried by the treatment section and including at least a first energy delivery element and a second energy delivery element axially and radially spaced apart from one another about the central axis, wherein the tubular control member defines a central lumen configured to receive a guide wire, and wherein the control member further comprises an opening proximally adjacent to the treatment section and adapted for exit of the guide wire, wherein the control member is operably couple to a distal region of the spiral treatment section, and wherein distal movement of the control member places the spiral treatment section in a low-profile delivery configuration; and proximal movement of the control member places the spiral treatment section in an expanded treatment configuration.