APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR TREATING FEMALE URINARY INCONTINENCE

摘要

Apparatus (20) and methods are provided for treating female urinary incontinence by applying a form of energy to tissue in the vicinity of the urethra and/or bladder outlet to change tissue compliance without substantially narrowing the urethral and/or bladder outlet lumen. The apparatus (20) comprises an elongated shaft (22) having a means (41-44) for treating urethral tissue and an expandable member (55) deployable distal of the means for treating. The expandable member is configured to be anchored against the bladder outlet to dispose the means for treating at a desired treatment site in the urethra using only tactile feedback. The means for treating may include a needleless RF electrode, an ultrasound transducer, or a cryogenic probe configured to be advanced through a hollow needle.