Flexible conductive polymer based conformable device and method to create linear endocardial lesions
AssigneeSt. Jude Medical, Atrial Fibrillation Division, Inc.
InventorsSaurav Paul, Riki Chou Thao
Life of this patent
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Abstract
An ablation device for creating linear lesions comprises a flexible support structure defining at least a partial curve; and an electrode disposed on the flexible support structure. The electrode comprises a pressure sensitive conductive composite that is configured for electrical communication with an electrical conductor and a flexible conductive outer covering that covers at least a portion of the pressure sensitive conductive composite. Electrical resistance of the pressure sensitive conductive composite varies inversely in proportion to pressure that is applied to the pressure sensitive conductive composite. Methods of creating linear lesions are also provided.
Claims20
An ablation device for creating linear lesions, the device comprising:
- a flexible support structure defining at least a partial curve;
- and
- an electrode disposed on the flexible support structure, the electrode comprising:
- a pressure sensitive conductive composite that is configured for electrical communication with an electrical conductor, wherein electrical resistance of the pressure sensitive conductive composite varies inversely in proportion to pressure that is applied to the pressure sensitive conductive composite;
- and
- a flexible conductive outer covering that covers at least a portion of the pressure sensitive conductive composite.
A method of creating linear lesions, the method comprising:
- forming a flexible, super elastic support structure defining at least a partial curve;
- inserting the support structure through at least a portion of a pressure sensitive conductive composite comprising a quantum tunneling composite, wherein electrical resistance of the quantum tunneling composite varies inversely in proportion to pressure that is applied to the quantum tunneling composite and wherein the electrical resistance of the quantum tunneling composite is configured to fall below one ohm when a predefined amount of pressure is applied to the quantum tunneling composite;
- and
- covering at least a portion of an outer surface of the pressure sensitive conductive composite with a flexible conductive outer covering to form an electrode.
An ablation device for creating linear lesions in targeted tissue, the device comprising:
- a super elastic support structure defining a loop;
- a layer of insulating material extending over at least a portion of an outer surface of the support structure;
- an electrode disposed on the support structure, the electrode comprising:
- a pressure sensitive conductive composite that is configured for electrical communication with an electrical conductor, wherein the pressure sensitive conductive composite comprises a quantum tunneling composite;
- and
- a flexible conductive outer covering that covers at least a portion of the pressure sensitive conductive composite and is in electrically conductive contact with the pressure sensitive conductive composite;
- and
- heat shrinkable tubing extending over at least a portion of the support structure and at least a portion of the electrode.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.