Importance

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Abstract

A hollow core coaxial catheter supporting a heatable probe or balloon transmits electrical power, such as RF energy, to the ohmically resistive probe or balloon. The hollow core may accommodate passage of a guide wire, fiber optics for imaging or laser, fluid flow for perfusion and/or a lumen for fluid inflation and pressurization of a balloon. Inner and outer electrical conductors are disposed on radially opposed sides of dielectric tubing with an outer covering of dielectric material mechanically shielding and electrically insulating the outer conductor. A similar inner covering of dielectric material may be disposed radially inwardly of the inner conductor to mechanically and electrically insulate the inner conductor. An ohmically resistive load, in the event RF energy is the power source, interconnects the inner and outer conductors to form the probe. An inflatable balloon of predetermined expanded configuration and inflatable via the lumen may be formed proximate or as a part of the probe to expand arterial plaque heated by the probe or to heat and expand the arterial plaque to a predetermined configuration. The RF energy, if used, will heat the probe or balloon and monitor and manage the temperature of the probe or the balloon.

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First Claim