Tuna device with integrated saline reservoir

摘要

Methods and apparatus for ablating a target tissue are discussed. Such methods and apparatus include those that simplify tissue ablation. For example, a tissue ablation device having an actuator, such as a trigger mechanism, coupled to a power source and an electrode is discussed. A single step of engaging the actuator causes the electrode to be introduced into the target tissue and causes energy to be delivered from the power supply to the tissue via the electrode. Devices that include an electrode actuator for causing the electrode to be introduced into the target tissue and a fluid actuator for causing the fluid to flow to the target tissue are also discussed. Methods of causing the electrode to be introduced into the target tissue and fluid to flow to the target tissue with a single step and more than one step are also discussed.

主权项

1. A device for ablating a target tissue, comprising:
a housing; an electrode slidably disposed within the housing; a reservoir capable of housing a conductive fluid; an electrode actuator operably coupled to the electrode, the electrode actuator being configured to cause the electrode to extend into the target tissue from the housing; and a fluid actuator operably coupled to the reservoir, the fluid actuator being configured to cause the fluid to flow from the reservoir to the target tissue; a fluid lumen, in fluid communication with the reservoir configured to deliver the fluid to the target tissue; a valve having an inlet and an outlet, the inlet being in fluid communication with the reservoir, the outlet being in fluid communication with the fluid lumen; being configured to move between an open position and a closed position, the open position allowing fluid to flow from the inlet to the outlet, the closed position preventing fluid to flow from the inlet to the outlet; being coupled to the fluid actuator such that engaging the fluid actuator moves the valve to the open position and such that disengaging the fluid actuator moves the valve to the closed position; and a bladder disposed in the reservoir; and capable of being expanded, wherein the bladder pressurizes fluid within the reservoir when the bladder is expanded.