초록 ▼

An apparatus and method are provided for control contraction of tissue that includes collagen fibers. The apparatus includes a handpiece, and an electrode with an electrode proximal end associated with the handpiece. A distal end of the electrode has a geometry that delivers a controlled amount of e

An apparatus and method are provided for control contraction of tissue that includes collagen fibers. The apparatus includes a handpiece, and an electrode with an electrode proximal end associated with the handpiece. A distal end of the electrode has a geometry that delivers a controlled amount of energy to the tissue for a desired contraction of the collagen fibers. This is achieved while dissociation and breakdown of the collagen fibers is minimized. The handpiece, with electrode, is adapted to be introduced through an operating cannula in percutaneous applications. Additionally, an operating cannula may be included in the apparatus and be attached to the handpiece. The apparatus and method provides for a desired level of contraction of collagen soft tissue without dissociation or breakdown of collagen fibers.

대표청구항 ▼

1. An orthopedic apparatus for contracting collagen containing tissues comprising:an electrode having a conductive surface formed with a plurality of apertures and a central lumen for circulating an electrolytic solution; an insulated housing configured for slidable movement along the surface of the

1. An orthopedic apparatus for contracting collagen containing tissues comprising:an electrode having a conductive surface formed with a plurality of apertures and a central lumen for circulating an electrolytic solution; an insulated housing configured for slidable movement along the surface of the collagen containing tissue that surrounds the electrode providing a dam to at least partially contain the electrolytic solution passing through the plurality of apertures formed in the conductive surface of the electrode at a selected site along the collagen containing tissue; a holding container for storing the electrolytic solution to be circulated through the electrode; a fluid conduit and pump assembly to deliver the electrolytic solution from the holding container through the plurality of apertures formed in the electrode to effect heat transfer between the electrolytic solution and the collagen containing tissue thereby inducing contraction of the collagen fibers contained in the tissue; and a cuff surrounding the insulated housing in a spaced apart relation to form a return fluid passageway to direct the electrolytic solution away from the collagen containing tissue.