Cryogenic probe

摘要

A cryogenic probe for ablating cardiac tissue is provided comprising a handle piece and an elongated probe tube extending from the handle that terminates in a malleable end effector closed at its distal end and having a smooth outer surface. A semi-rigid insulative sleeve extends from the handle and overlies the proximal portion of the probe tube. An internal support preferably in the form of a coiled spring is located interior of the probe tube for supporting the interior surface of the probe tube. A plurality of cryogenic fluid supply tubes are disposed on the interior of the probe tube for introducing cryogenic fluid to the probe tube, each supply tube having an outlet orifice, with the outlet orifices being staggered along the length of the probe tube. In one embodiment, the probe tube is axially movable relative to the sleeve/handle between retracted and extended positions. Also, the probe tube may be provided with a thermocouple for measuring the temperature of the surface of the probe tube.

主权项

1. A cryogenic probe for ablating tissue comprising:
a handle; an elongated probe metal tube extending from the handle having a proximal portion and a distal portion, the distal portion defining an end effector, the probe tube being closed at its distal end and having an interior surface and a smooth exterior surface; a semi-rigid insulative outer sleeve extending from a distal portion of the handle and overlying the proximal portion of the probe tube; a flexible support member supporting the interior surface of the distal portion of the probe tube; and a plurality of cryogenic fluid supply passageways disposed on the interior of the probe tube, each supply passageway having an outlet orifice, the outlet orifices being staggered along the length of the distal portion of the probe tube; an insulated jacket operatively coupled to the elongated probe metal tube and extending from a proximal portion of the handle, the insulated jacket is repositionably mounted to the handle and configured to reposition the elongated probe metal tube when the insulated jacket is repositioned; wherein the elongated probe metal tube is axially movable relative to the sleeve and the handle between a retracted position in which the end effector is inside the sleeve and an extended position in which the end effector is outside the sleeve.