Method and Apparatus for Tubal Occlusion

Abstract

A device for sterilizing females by occluding the uterotubal junction. The device includes a catheter with a releasable heat generating plug which is used to thermally damage the uterotubal junction and cause it to constrict around the plug, after which the plug is released from the catheter and left in place in the uterotubal junction.

1 - 34 . (canceled) 
     
     
         35 . A device for sterilization of a female comprising:
 a catheter having a detachable distal end portion adapted for insertion through the vagina and cervical canal and into the uterine tube of the female;   a release mechanism configured to release the distal end portion of catheter;   an electrode assembly configured to apply energy to the uterine tube, through the distal end portion of the catheter, wherein the electrode assembly is configured to apply energy sufficient to cause damage to the uterine tube.   
     
     
         36 . The device of  claim 35  wherein the detachable distal end portion is an electrode. 
     
     
         37 . The device of  claim 35  wherein the detachable distal end portion has an electrode having a coil-shape configuration. 
     
     
         38 . The device of  claim 35  further comprising a central conductor to carry energy to the electrode assembly. 
     
     
         39 . the device of  claim 35  wherein the release mechanism is capable of transferring energy to the detachable distal end portion. 
     
     
         40 . A device for sterilization of a female comprising:
 a catheter having a distal end adapted for insertion through the vagina and cervical canal and into the uterine tube of the female;   a detachable plug releasably mounted to the distal end of the catheter;   a power source coupled to the catheter, the power source being configured to provide energy to the uterine tube, through the plug; and   a release mechanism capable of releasing the plug from the distal end of the catheter; and wherein the power source is capable of applying energy to the plug sufficient to cause damage to the uterine tube.   
     
     
         41 . The device of  claim 40  wherein the plug is configured to fit entirely within the uterine tube. 
     
     
         42 . The device of  claim 40  wherein the plug is non-expandable.