APPARATUSES AND METHODS FOR INTERSTITIAL TISSUE REMOVAL

摘要

Apparatuses, and methods for removing solid tissue from beneath a tissue surface are described. The methods rely on positioning an energy conductive element (18) at a target site beneath the tissue surface, and energizing the element so that it can vaporize tissue. The element (18) is then moved in a pattern which provides the desired tissue removal geometry, such as spherical, ovoid, or cylindrical. Usually the shaft (12) is moved, typically rotated or reciprocated, and the energy conductive element (18) is moved relative to the shaft (12) typically by pivoting a rigid element or bowing a flexible element.