Systems and methods for treating tissue with radiofrequency eneregy

Abstract

A system for controlling operation of a radiofrequency treatment device to apply radiofrequency energy to tissue to treat tissue to create lesions without ablating the tissue. The system includes a first treatment device having a plurality of electrodes. The electrodes are maintained in axial alignment and fixed radial spacing in retracted and extended positions. The device includes a basket having a plurality of arms. The arms are maintained in a fixed radial spacing in the collapsed position of the basket.

1 . A device for applying radiofrequency energy for sphincter treatment comprising:
 a flexible outer tube;
 an expandable basket having a plurality of arms movable from a collapsed position to an expanded position, the arms having an opening; 
 a plurality of electrodes movable with respect to the arms, the plurality of electrodes movable from a retracted position to an extended position such that each electrode is extendable through one of the openings in the arms, each of the plurality of electrodes having a first engagement structure; 
 an electrode holder having a second engagement structure cooperate with the first engagement structure to maintain electrodes in a desired radial spaced position; and 
 an advancer slidably disposed within the outer tube, the plurality of electrodes operably coupled to the advancer such that movement of the advancer advances the electrodes to the extended position. 
   
     
     
         2 - 20 . (canceled)