Electrosurgical hemostat

Abstract

A hemostat-type device for ablative treatment of tissue, particularly for treatment of atrial fibrillation, is constructed with features that provide easy and effective treatment. A swiveling head assembly can allow the jaws to be adjusted in pitch and roll. Malleable jaws can permit curved lesion shapes. A locking detent can secure the jaws in a closed position during the procedure. An illuminated indicator provides confirmation that the device is operating. A fluid delivery system simplifies irrigated ablation procedures.

1 . A device for performing a surgical procedure, comprising. 
 an elongated handle;    a pair of closeable jaws on a distal portion of the handle;    means on at least one of the jaws for ablative treatment of tissue;    means for closing the jaws on tissue; and    means for adjusting roll and pitch of the pair ofjaws relative to the handle.    
   
   
       2 .- 72 . (canceled)