| 摘要 |
<p>A radio frequency catheter is suitable for bipolar epicardial ablation of the outer surface of the heart comprising an electrode array 401-412 formed on a planar flexible strip 400. Each electrode of the array has its own a electrical conductors extending along the catheter to a multiple terminal connector. The radio frequency energy may be selectively transmitted along an individual conductors as RF emission may be targeted at a subset of the electrodes. Preferably the flexible electrode array may be wrapped around the heart or around a vein of the heart (fig 13). Coolant may be pumped into serpentine channel within the catheter to cool the ablation electrodes (figs 14, 15). An electric round shield may be provided on the reverse face of the flexible strip. A light source 413, 414 may be provided at the catheter tip.</p> |
