System(s), method(s) and device(s) for the prevention of esophageal fistula during catheter ablation

Abstract

The present invention is directed to systems, devices and methods for trans-septally delivering carbon dioxide through a minimally invasive catheter to create a gaseous pocket or emphysema between the posterior wall of the left atrium and the esophagus during cardiac ablation of the left atrium. This pocket of gas expanded tissue serves to thermally insulate and separate the esophagus from the left atrium during ablation to prevent the formation of an atrial-esophageal fistula. The system comprises a control system to precisely deliver the gas to a desired location through a needle-based catheter assembly.

1 - 17 . (canceled) 
     
     
         18 . A method for preventing an esophageal fistula during intra-cardiac ablation of the left atrium, the method comprising the steps of:
 delivering an injection catheter to a region proximate the posterior left atrium wall;
 anchoring the injection catheter to the cardiac tissue; 
 advancing a needle of the injection catheter into the fibro-fatty tissue that separates the posterior left atrium wall from the esophagus; 
 delivering a dose of gas at a controlled rate through the needle into the fibro-fatty tissue to create a thicker, gas infused insulation layer; and 
 removing the injection catheter when the dose is delivered. 
   
     
     
         19 - 20 . (canceled)