US 2003/0125645 A1 · Ultrasonic medical device operating in a transverse mode

Abstract

An ultrasonic medical device comprises an ultrasonic vibration generator that generates vibration along its longitudinal axis. The ultrasonic vibration is transmitted through an ultrasonic coupler and a series of transformer sections that amplify the ultrasonic vibration. A flexible member is coupled to the distal end of the transformer sections, and is thus supplied with a longitudinal vibration at its base by the transformer sections. The flexible member is designed so that it converts the longitudinal vibration into a standing wave that runs along the length of the flexible member. The standing wave produces a series of nodes and anti-nodes along the length of the flexible member. Each of the anti-nodes produces cavitation in fluids in contact with the probe. The cavitation of the fluids causes destruction of adjacent tissue. In this manner, the entire length of the flexible member becomes a working surface that may be utilized for destroying tissue.

Claims60

Dependent claims

An ultrasonic medical device comprising:

an ultrasonic generator for producing an ultrasonic vibration in a direction along a longitudinal axis of the ultrasonic generator;
an ultrasonic coupling horn;
at least one transformer section ultrasonically coupled to the ultrasonic source by the ultrasonic coupling horn, the transformer section modifying the amplitude of the ultrasonic vibration;
and
a flexible member driven by the transformer section,
wherein the flexible member operates in a transverse mode of operation to produce a plurality of nodes and anti-nodes along the length of the flexible member.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Ultrasonic medical device operating in a transverse mode

Life of this patent

Ultrasonic medical device operating in a transverse mode

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims60