Systems and devices to identify and limit nerve conduction

Abstract

Methods and devices for improved precision in finding one or more nerves and then interrupting the transmission of neural signals through the target nerve. The treated nerve can be rendered incapable of transmitting neural signals for a select duration of time, where such a duration can be on a temporarily basis (e.g., hours, days or weeks) or a longer term/permanent basis e.g., months or years). One embodiment of the apparatus includes a precise energy source system which features energy transfer elements that are capable of creating areas of nerve destruction, inhibition and ablation with precision.

1 . A method of treating a nerve in a tissue region, the method comprising:
 positioning a working end of a device into the tissue region;   where the device includes a stimulation mode and an energy delivery mode, the stimulation mode comprises at least a first parameter setting that stimulates the nerve at a first distance from the working end, and a second parameter setting that stimulates the nerve at a second distance from the working end, where the first distance is greater than the second distance, and where the device is configured to prevent activation of the energy delivery mode when the stimulation mode is in the first parameter setting;   activating the device in the stimulation mode at the first parameter setting to observe a stimulation of the nerve;   repositioning the working end of the device in the tissue region to move the working end closer to the nerve;   re-activating the device in the stimulation mode at the second parameter to observe stimulation of the nerve and confirm repositioning of the working end of the device closer to the nerve; and   activating the device in the energy delivery mode to create a first treatment zone on the nerve at a pre-determined treatment setting, where activating the device in the energy delivery mode causes the device to reset to the first parameter setting.