Systems and Methods for Creating an Effect Using Microwave Energy to Specified Tissue

Abstract

Systems, methods and devices for creating an effect using microwave energy to specified tissue are disclosed. A system for the application of microwave energy to a tissue includes a signal generator adapted to generate a microwave signal having predetermined characteristics, an applicator connected to the generator and adapted to apply microwave energy to tissue. The applicator includes one or more microwave antennas and a tissue interface, a vacuum source connected to the tissue interface, a cooling source connected to the tissue interface, and a controller adapted to control the signal generator, the vacuum source, and the coolant source. The tissue includes a first layer and a second layer, the second layer below the first layer. The controller is configured so that the system delivers energy such that a peak power loss density profile is created in the second layer.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method of creating a lesion in target tissue in a dermal layer of skin wherein the skin has at least a dermal layer and a sub-dermal layer, the method comprising the steps of:
 positioning a device adapted to radiate microwave energy on an external surface of the skin adjacent the target tissue;   radiating microwave energy into the target tissue at a frequency between about 5.0 GHz and about 6.5 GHz,   the microwave energy being radiated in a TEM mode,   the microwave energy having an electric field component which is substantially parallel to a region of the external surface of the skin;   removing heat from the external surface of the skin; and   generating heat in the target tissue through dielectric heating to create the lesion.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the microwave energy has a frequency of approximately 5.8 GHz. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the electromagnetic energy radiates in a TE10 mode. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the target tissue includes sweat glands. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 4 , wherein heating the sweat glands results in a reduction in the symptoms of hyperhidrosis.