Fluid-assisted medical device

Abstract

The invention provides a medical device that includes a housing, a tubular member extending from the distal end of the housing, a first arm extending from the distal end of the tubular member, the first arm including a first electrode, a second arm extending from the distal end of the tubular member, the second arm including a second electrode and being disposed coaxially with the first arm, at least one solution infusion opening on each electrode, and a solution delivery channel for delivery of a conductive solution to the solution infusion openings. According to the invention, at least one of the first arm or the second arm is translationally moveable, and at least one of the first arm or the second arm is adapted to be coupled to a source of radiofrequency energy. The invention also provides a corresponding method for treating blood vessels or other tissues of the body.

1 . A medical device comprising:
 a. a housing having a proximal end and a distal end;   b. a tubular member having a proximal and a distal end, the tubular member extending from the distal end of the housing;   c. a first translationally moveable arm extending from the distal end of the tubular member, the first arm including a first electrode;   d. a second arm extending from the distal end of the tubular member, the second arm including a second electrode and being disposed coaxially with the first arm;   e. at least one solution infusion opening on each electrode;   f. a solution delivery channel for delivery of a conductive solution to the solution infusion openings,   wherein at least one of the first arm or the second arm is adapted to be coupled to a source of radiofrequency energy.   
     
     
         2 - 35 . (canceled)