摘要 |
A method of treating a herniated intervertebral disc includes inserting a heat-transfer area of a tube containing a fluid into a spinal column and tr ansferring heat between the tube and a tissue. Vapor flows from an evaporato r zone of the tube to a condenser zone and liquid flows from the condenser z one to the evaporator zone. Insulation material can be removed from the tube to adjust the heat-transfer area of the tube. The tube is configured such t hat when a temperature of a heat portal area of the tube is changed fluid ch anges state and flows to the heat-transfer area. The tube also contains a wi ck structure to assist liquid flow by way of capillary action. In addition, the tube includes a flexible segment that conforms to the inner curved surfa ce of the annulus fibrosus of the intervertebral disc.
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