Granted Patent
B2
US 12,648,812 · App. 15/946,076 · Granted Jun 9, 2026
Fluid-cooled energy-delivery device
Assignee:
Covidien LP
View Patent ↗
Loading inventors, assignments & file history…
Abstract
An energy-delivery device suitable for delivery of energy to tissue includes an antenna assembly, a chamber defined about the antenna assembly, and a cable having a proximal end suitable for connection to an electrosurgical energy source. The energy-delivery device also includes a flexible, fluid-cooled shaft coupled in fluid communication with the chamber. The flexible, fluid-cooled shaft is configured to contain a length of the cable therein and adapted to remove heat along the length of the cable during delivery of energy to the antenna assembly.
Claims (35)
1 . A microwave ablation device, comprising:
a housing;
an outer tubular member defining a first fluid conduit;
an inner tubular member coaxially surrounded by the outer tubular member and defining a second fluid conduit;
a feedline coaxially disposed within the inner tubular member, the feedline having an inner conductor and an outer conductor coaxially surrounding the inner conductor, and a dielectric material disposed between the inner and outer conductors, wherein the outer conductor is out of electromechanical contact with the inner tubular member;
an electrically insulative end cap disposed at a distal end of the outer tubular member and configured to be inserted into tissue, the electrically insulative end cap coupled to the outer tubular member by a connector portion having an outer surface attached to an inner surface of the outer tubular member, wherein the first fluid conduit includes a fluid chamber defined by the electrically insulative end cap such that the electrically insulative end cap narrows a portion of the first fluid conduit and the portion of the first fluid conduit that is narrowed by the electrically insulative end cap is surrounded by the connector portion; and
a radiating portion disposed at a distal end portion of the feedline and configured to radiate microwave energy, the radiating portion having a distal end disposed within the fluid chamber defined by the electrically insulative end cap, wherein a portion of the radiating portion is surrounded by the connector portion, and wherein the radiating portion is immersed in fluid and out of physical contact with the electrically insulative end cap and the outer tubular member.
2 . The microwave ablation device according to claim 1 , further comprising a balun structure coaxially surrounded by the outer tubular member and coaxially surrounding at least a portion of the feedline and configured to limit propagation of the microwave energy.
3 . The microwave ablation device according to claim 1 , wherein a distal end of the radiating portion is disposed distal to a distal end of the inner tubular member.
4 . The microwave ablation device according to claim 1 , wherein the radiating portion is at least partially surrounded by the inner tubular member and disposed within the second fluid conduit.
5 . A fluid-cooled shaft for a microwave ablation device, comprising:
an outer tubular member defining a fluid outflow conduit;
an inner tubular member defining a fluid inflow conduit, the inner tubular member having a coaxial cable received within the fluid inflow conduit, the coaxial cable having an inner conductor and an outer conductor coaxially surrounding the inner conductor, wherein the outer conductor is out of electromechanical contact with the inner tubular member;
an end cap disposed at a distal end of the outer tubular member and configured to be inserted into tissue, the end cap coupled to the outer tubular member by a connector portion having an outer surface attached to an inner surface of the outer tubular member, wherein the fluid outflow conduit includes a fluid chamber defined by the end cap such that the end cap narrows a portion of the fluid outflow conduit and the portion of the fluid outflow conduit that is narrowed by the end cap is surrounded by the connector portion; and
a radiating portion configured to radiate microwave energy, the radiating portion having a distal end disposed within the fluid chamber defined by the end cap, wherein a portion of the radiating portion is surrounded by the connector portion, and wherein the radiating portion is immersed in fluid and out of physical contact with the end cap and the outer tubular member.
6 . The fluid-cooled shaft according to claim 5 , wherein the coaxial cable includes a dielectric material disposed between the inner conductor and the outer conductor.
7 . The fluid-cooled shaft according to claim 5 , further comprising a balun structure coaxially surrounded by the outer tubular member and configured to limit propagation of the microwave energy.
8 . The fluid-cooled shaft according to claim 5 , wherein a distal end of the radiating portion is disposed distal to a distal end of the inner tubular member.
9 . The fluid-cooled shaft according to claim 5 , wherein the end cap is electrically insulative.
10 . The fluid-cooled shaft according to claim 5 , wherein the radiating portion is out of physical contact with the inner tubular member.
11 . The fluid-cooled shaft according to claim 5 , wherein the radiating portion is at least partially surrounded by the inner tubular member and disposed within the fluid inflow conduit.
12 . A microwave antenna assembly, comprising:
a housing;
an outer tubular member extending distally from the housing and defining a lumen;
an inner tubular member extending through the lumen defined by the outer tubular member;
a feedline disposed within the inner tubular member, the feedline including an inner conductor, an outer conductor, and a dielectric disposed between the inner conductor and the outer conductor, wherein the outer conductor is out of electromechanical contact with the inner tubular member;
a first fluid lumen defined between an inner surface of the outer tubular member and an outer surface of the inner tubular member;
a second fluid lumen defined between an inner surface of the inner tubular member and an outer surface of the feedline;
an end cap disposed at a distal end of the outer tubular member and configured to be inserted into tissue, wherein the first fluid lumen includes a fluid chamber defined by the end cap such that the end cap narrows a portion of the first fluid lumen, and wherein the end cap is coupled to the outer tubular member by a connector portion disposed within the lumen defined by the outer tubular member and having an outer surface attached to an inner surface of the outer tubular member, and wherein the portion of the fluid outflow conduit that is narrowed by the end cap is surrounded by the connector portion;
a radiating portion operably coupled to the inner conductor of the feedline and configured to radiate microwave energy, the radiating portion having a distal end disposed within the fluid chamber defined by the end cap, wherein a portion of the radiating portion is surrounded by the connector portion, and wherein the radiating portion is fully immersed in fluid and out of physical contact with the end cap and the outer tubular member; and
a balun positioned relative to the feedline and configured to limit propagation of the microwave energy.
13 . The microwave antenna assembly according to claim 12 , wherein the radiating portion is out of physical contact with the inner tubular member.
14 . The microwave antenna assembly according to claim 12 , wherein a distal end of the radiating portion is disposed distal to a distal end of the inner tubular member.
15 . The microwave antenna assembly according to claim 12 , wherein the end cap is electrically insulative.
16 . The microwave antenna assembly according to claim 12 , wherein the radiating portion is at least partially surrounded by the inner tubular member and disposed within the second fluid lumen.
Assignments (4)
ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNOR'S INTEREST
Recorded Apr 3, 2026
From: BRANNAN, JOSEPH D.
To: VIVANT MEDICAL, INC.
Reel/Frame 074270/0594 →
CHANGE OF NAME
Recorded Apr 3, 2026
From: VIVANT MEDICAL, INC.
To: VIVANT MEDICAL LLC
Reel/Frame 075416/0432 →
ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNOR'S INTEREST
Recorded Apr 3, 2026
From: VIVANT MEDICAL LLC
To: COVIDIEN LP
Reel/Frame 075338/0372 →
Continuity (3)
References Cited (400)
US D263020S
· Rau, III
· 1982
[cited by applicant]
US 4632127A
· Sterzer
· 1986
[cited by applicant]
US 4632128A
· Paglione et al.
· 1986
[cited by applicant]
US D295893S
· Sharkany et al.
· 1988
[cited by applicant]
US D295894S
· Sharkany et al.
· 1988
[cited by applicant]
US 4813429A
· Eshel et al.
· 1989
[cited by applicant]
US 5129396A
· Rosen et al.
· 1992
[cited by applicant]
US 5275597A
· Higgins et al.
· 1994
[cited by applicant]
US 5281217A
· Edwards et al.
· 1994
[cited by applicant]
US 5344435A
· Turner et al.
· 1994
[cited by applicant]
US 5358515A
· Hurter et al.
· 1994
[cited by applicant]
US 5369251A
· King et al.
· 1994
[cited by applicant]
US 5405346A
· Grundy et al.
· 1995
[cited by applicant]
US 5861021A
· Thome et al.
· 1999
[cited by applicant]
US 5904709A
· Arndt et al.
· 1999
[cited by applicant]
US 6007571A
· Neilson et al.
· 1999
[cited by applicant]
US 6053912A
· Panescu
· 2000
[cited by examiner]
US D424694S
· Tetzlaff et al.
· 2000
[cited by applicant]
US D425201S
· Tetzlaff et al.
· 2000
[cited by applicant]
US 6059780A
· Gough
· 2000
[cited by examiner]
US 6223085B1
· Dann et al.
· 2001
[cited by applicant]
US 6230060B1
· Mawhinney
· 2001
[cited by applicant]
US 6235019B1
· Lehmann
· 2001
[cited by examiner]
US 6241666B1
· Pomeranz et al.
· 2001
[cited by applicant]
US 6289249B1
· Arndt et al.
· 2001
[cited by applicant]
US D449886S
· Tetzlaff et al.
· 2001
[cited by applicant]
US D457958S
· Dycus et al.
· 2002
[cited by applicant]
US D457959S
· Tetzlaff et al.
· 2002
[cited by applicant]
US 6440158B1
· Saab
· 2002
[cited by applicant]
US 6496737B2
· Rudie et al.
· 2002
[cited by applicant]
US 6522932B1
· Kuzma et al.
· 2003
[cited by applicant]
US 6575969B1
· Rittman, III et al.
· 2003
[cited by applicant]
US 6640139B1
· Ueberle
· 2003
[cited by applicant]
US 6699241B2
· Rappaport et al.
· 2004
[cited by applicant]
US D496997S
· Dycus et al.
· 2004
[cited by applicant]
US D499181S
· Dycus et al.
· 2004
[cited by applicant]
US 6905510B2
· Saab
· 2005
[cited by applicant]
US 6953461B2
· McClurken et al.
· 2005
[cited by applicant]
US D525361S
· Hushka
· 2006
[cited by applicant]
US 7113832B2
· Longo
· 2006
[cited by applicant]
US D531311S
· Guerra et al.
· 2006
[cited by applicant]
US D533942S
· Kerr et al.
· 2006
[cited by applicant]
US D535027S
· James et al.
· 2007
[cited by applicant]
US D541418S
· Schechter et al.
· 2007
[cited by applicant]
US D541938S
· Kerr et al.
· 2007
[cited by applicant]
US 7311703B2
· Turovskiy et al.
· 2007
[cited by applicant]
US 7335198B2
· Eggers et al.
· 2008
[cited by applicant]
US D564662S
· Moses et al.
· 2008
[cited by applicant]
US D606203S
· Husheer et al.
· 2009
[cited by applicant]
US D613412S
· DeCarlo
· 2010
[cited by applicant]
US 7777130B2
· Deborski et al.
· 2010
[cited by applicant]
US 8038693B2
· Allen
· 2011
[cited by applicant]
US 8188435B2
· Podhajsky et al.
· 2012
[cited by applicant]
US 8313486B2
· Kim et al.
· 2012
[cited by applicant]
US 8382750B2
· Brannan
· 2013
[cited by applicant]
US 8394092B2
· Brannan
· 2013
[cited by applicant]
US 8409188B2
· Kim et al.
· 2013
[cited by applicant]
US 8430871B2
· Brannan
· 2013
[cited by applicant]
US 8469953B2
· DeCarlo
· 2013
[cited by applicant]
US 8491579B2
· Rossetto
· 2013
[cited by applicant]
US 8551083B2
· Turner
· 2013
[cited by examiner]
US 8568401B2
· Brannan
· 2013
[cited by applicant]
US 8568404B2
· Brannan
· 2013
[cited by applicant]
US 8617153B2
· Lee et al.
· 2013
[cited by applicant]
US 8652127B2
· Prakash et al.
· 2014
[cited by applicant]
US 8672923B2
· Ladtkow et al.
· 2014
[cited by applicant]
US 8672933B2
· Shiu et al.
· 2014
[cited by applicant]
US 8690866B2
· Brannan
· 2014
[cited by applicant]
US 8728067B2
· Prakash et al.
· 2014
[cited by applicant]
US 8740893B2
· Shiu et al.
· 2014
[cited by applicant]
US 8764744B2
· Brannan
· 2014
[cited by applicant]
US 8777939B2
· Lee et al.
· 2014
[cited by applicant]
US 8882759B2
· Manley et al.
· 2014
[cited by applicant]
US 8945144B2
· Cunningham
· 2015
[cited by applicant]
US 8968288B2
· Brannan
· 2015
[cited by applicant]
US 8968289B2
· Cunningham et al.
· 2015
[cited by applicant]
US 8974449B2
· Brannan
· 2015
[cited by applicant]
US 9011421B2
· Brannan
· 2015
[cited by applicant]
US 9028474B2
· Brannan et al.
· 2015
[cited by applicant]
US 9113927B2
· Kim et al.
· 2015
[cited by applicant]
US 9192436B2
· Willyard et al.
· 2015
[cited by applicant]
US 9241762B2
· Podhajsky et al.
· 2016
[cited by applicant]
US 9377367B2
· Podhajsky et al.
· 2016
[cited by applicant]
US 9468492B2
· Podhajsky et al.
· 2016
[cited by applicant]
US 9561076B2
· Brannan et al.
· 2017
[cited by applicant]
US 9867664B2
· Shiu et al.
· 2018
[cited by applicant]
US 9937003B2
· Brannan
· 2018
[cited by applicant]
US 20020165533A1
· Flores
· 2002
[cited by examiner]
US 20030065317A1
· Rudie
· 2003
[cited by examiner]
US 20040002747A1
· Ryan et al.
· 2004
[cited by applicant]
US 20050059966A1
· McClurken et al.
· 2005
[cited by applicant]
US 20050113893A1
· Saab
· 2005
[cited by applicant]
US 20050245920A1
· Vitullo et al.
· 2005
[cited by applicant]
US 20070142829A1
· Ahn et al.
· 2007
[cited by applicant]
US 20070203551A1
· Cronin
· 2007
[cited by examiner]
US 20070287994A1
· Patel
· 2007
[cited by applicant]
US 20080009927A1
· Vilims
· 2008
[cited by applicant]
US 20080125775A1
· Morris
· 2008
[cited by applicant]
US 20080161890A1
· Lafontaine
· 2008
[cited by examiner]
US 20100087808A1
· Paulus
· 2010
[cited by applicant]
US 20110118731A1
· Ladtkow
· 2011
[cited by applicant]
US 20110172659A1
· Brannan
· 2011
[cited by applicant]
US 20110208180A1
· Brannan
· 2011
[cited by applicant]
US 20110213353A1
· Lee et al.
· 2011
[cited by applicant]
US 20110301589A1
· Podhajsky et al.
· 2011
[cited by applicant]
US 20110319880A1
· Prakash et al.
· 2011
[cited by applicant]
CN 1103807C
· 2003
[cited by applicant]
DE 390937C
· 1924
[cited by applicant]
DE 1099658B
· 1961
[cited by applicant]
DE 1139927B
· 1962
[cited by applicant]
DE 1149832B
· 1963
[cited by applicant]
DE 1439302A1
· 1969
[cited by applicant]
DE 2439587A1
· 1975
[cited by applicant]
DE 2455174A1
· 1975
[cited by applicant]
DE 2407559A1
· 1975
[cited by applicant]
DE 2415263A1
· 1975
[cited by applicant]
DE 2429021A1
· 1976
[cited by applicant]
DE 2460481A1
· 1976
[cited by applicant]
DE 2602517A1
· 1976
[cited by applicant]
DE 2504280A1
· 1976
[cited by applicant]
DE 2627679A1
· 1977
[cited by applicant]
DE 2540968A1
· 1977
[cited by applicant]
DE 2820908A1
· 1978
[cited by applicant]
DE 2803275A1
· 1979
[cited by applicant]
DE 2823291A1
· 1979
[cited by applicant]
DE 2946728A1
· 1981
[cited by applicant]
DE 3143421A1
· 1982
[cited by applicant]
DE 3045996A1
· 1982
[cited by applicant]
DE 3120102A1
· 1982
[cited by applicant]
DE 3510586A1
· 1986
[cited by applicant]
DE 3604823A1
· 1987
[cited by applicant]
DE 8712328U1
· 1988
[cited by applicant]
DE 3711511C1
· 1988
[cited by applicant]
DE 3904558A1
· 1990
[cited by applicant]
DE 3942998A1
· 1991
[cited by applicant]
DE 4238263A1
· 1993
[cited by applicant]
DE 04303882C2
· 1995
[cited by applicant]
DE 4339049A1
· 1995
[cited by applicant]
DE 29616210U1
· 1996
[cited by applicant]
DE 19608716C1
· 1997
[cited by applicant]
DE 19751106A1
· 1998
[cited by applicant]
DE 19717411A1
· 1998
[cited by applicant]
DE 19751108A1
· 1999
[cited by applicant]
DE 19801173C1
· 1999
[cited by applicant]
DE 19848540A1
· 2000
[cited by applicant]
DE 10224154A1
· 2003
[cited by applicant]
DE 10310765A1
· 2004
[cited by applicant]
DE 10328514B3
· 2005
[cited by applicant]
DE 102004022206A1
· 2005
[cited by applicant]
DE 202005015147U1
· 2006
[cited by applicant]
EP 0246350A1
· 1987
[cited by applicant]
EP 0521264A2
· 1993
[cited by applicant]
EP 0556705A1
· 1993
[cited by applicant]
EP 0558429A1
· 1993
[cited by applicant]
EP 0836868A2
· 1998
[cited by applicant]
EP 0882955A1
· 1998
[cited by applicant]
EP 1159926A2
· 2003
[cited by applicant]
EP 1506757A1
· 2005
[cited by applicant]
EP 1905375A1
· 2008
[cited by applicant]
EP 2098184A1
· 2009
[cited by applicant]
EP 2128929A1
· 2009
[cited by applicant]
EP 2158868A1
· 2010
[cited by applicant]
EP 2255742A1
· 2010
[cited by applicant]
EP 2322113A1
· 2011
[cited by applicant]
EP 2399646A1
· 2011
[cited by applicant]
FR 179607
· 1906
[cited by applicant]
FR 1275415A
· 1961
[cited by applicant]
FR 1347865A
· 1964
[cited by applicant]
FR 2235669A1
· 1975
[cited by applicant]
FR 2276027A1
· 1976
[cited by applicant]
FR 2313708A1
· 1976
[cited by applicant]
FR 2502935A1
· 1982
[cited by applicant]
FR 2517953A1
· 1983
[cited by applicant]
FR 2573301A1
· 1986
[cited by applicant]
FR 2862813A1
· 2005
[cited by applicant]
FR 2864439A1
· 2005
[cited by applicant]
JP 55106
· 1993
[cited by applicant]
JP 0540112
· 1993
[cited by applicant]
JP 06343644A
· 1994
[cited by applicant]
JP 07265328A
· 1995
[cited by applicant]
JP 7275247A
· 1995
[cited by applicant]
JP 08056955
· 1996
[cited by applicant]
JP 08252263A
· 1996
[cited by applicant]
JP 09000492A
· 1997
[cited by applicant]
JP 09010223
· 1997
[cited by applicant]
JP 11244298A
· 1999
[cited by applicant]
JP 2000342599A
· 2000
[cited by applicant]
JP 2000350732A2
· 2000
[cited by applicant]
JP 2001008944
· 2001
[cited by applicant]
JP 2001029356
· 2001
[cited by applicant]
JP 2001128990A
· 2001
[cited by applicant]
JP 2001231870A
· 2001
[cited by applicant]
JP 2003518979A
· 2003
[cited by applicant]
JP 2004329764A
· 2004
[cited by applicant]
JP 2005507736A
· 2005
[cited by applicant]
JP 2005118357A
· 2005
[cited by applicant]
JP 2006507865A
· 2006
[cited by applicant]
JP 2007222689A
· 2007
[cited by applicant]
JP 2007532024A
· 2007
[cited by applicant]
JP 2007535370A
· 2007
[cited by applicant]
JP 2008142467A
· 2008
[cited by applicant]
JP 2009521967A
· 2009
[cited by applicant]
JP 2009207898A
· 2009
[cited by applicant]
JP 2009285463A
· 2009
[cited by applicant]
JP 2009285493A
· 2009
[cited by applicant]
JP 2010050975A
· 2010
[cited by applicant]
JP 2010110579A
· 2010
[cited by applicant]
JP 2010269148A
· 2010
[cited by applicant]
JP 2010279696A
· 2010
[cited by applicant]
JP 6158470B2
· 2017
[cited by applicant]
SU 166452
· 1965
[cited by applicant]
SU 401367A1
· 1973
[cited by applicant]
SU 727201A2
· 1980
[cited by applicant]
WO 0036985A2
· 2000
[cited by applicant]
WO 2004047659A2
· 2004
[cited by applicant]
WO 2005011049A2
· 2005
[cited by applicant]
WO 2007006158A1
· 2007
[cited by applicant]
WO 2008028980A2
· 2008
[cited by applicant]
WO 2009094422A1
· 2009
[cited by applicant]
WO 2009124301A1
· 2009
[cited by applicant]
WO 2010035831A1
· 2010
[cited by applicant]
WO 2011063061A2
· 2011
[cited by applicant]
Extended European Search Report issued in corresponding Appl. No. EP 18208493.9 dated May 13, 2019 (6 pages).
[cited by applicant]
Japanese Office Action from Appl. No. 2011-283440 dated Sep. 24, 2015.
[cited by applicant]
McGahan et al., (1995) “Percutaneous Ultrasound-guided Radiofrequency Electrocautery Ablation of Prostate Tissue in Dogs”, Acad Radial, vol. 2, No. 1: pp. 61-65.
[cited by applicant]
McLellan et al., “Vessel Sealing for Hemostasis During Pelvic Surgery” Int'l Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics Figo World Congress 2000, Washington, DC.
[cited by applicant]
MDTECH product literature (Dec. 1999) “FlexStrand”: product description, 1 page.
[cited by applicant]
MDTECH product literature (Mar. 2000) I'D Wire: product description, 1 page.
[cited by applicant]
Medtrex Brochure “The O.R. Pro 300” 1 page; Sep. 1998.
[cited by applicant]
Michael Choti, “Abdominoperineal Resection with the LigaSure.TM. Vessel Sealing System and LigaSure.TM. Atlas 20 cm Open Instrument” Innovations That Work, Jun. 2003.
[cited by applicant]
Muller et al., “Extended Left Hemicolectomy Using the LigaSure.TM. Vessel Sealing System” Innovations That Work. J, Sep. 1999.
[cited by applicant]
Murakami, R. et al., (1995). “Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Value of Percutaneous Microwave Coagulation,” American Journal of Radiology (AJR) 164:1159-1164.
[cited by applicant]
Ni Wei et al., “A Signal Processing Method for the Coriolis Mass Flowmeter Based on a Normalized . . . ” Journal of Applied Sciences.cndot. Yingyong Kexue Xuebao, Shangha CN, vol. 23, No. 2:(Mar. 2005); pp. 160-184.
[cited by applicant]
Ogden, “Goertzel Alternative to the Fourier Transform”: Jun. 1993 pp. 485-487 Electronics World; Reed Business Publishing, Sutton, Surrey, BG, vol. 99, No. 9, 1687.
[cited by applicant]
Olsson M.D. et al., “Radical Cystectomy in Females” Current Surgical Techniques in Urology, vol. 14, Issue 3, 2001.
[cited by applicant]
Organ, L W., “Electrophysiologic Principles of Radiofrequency Lesion Making” Appl. Neurophysiol, vol. 39: pp. 69-76 (1976/1977).
[cited by applicant]
P.R. Stauffer et al., “Interstitial Heating Technologies”, Thermoradiotheray and Thermochemotherapy (1995) vol. I, Biology, Physiology, Physics, pp. 279-320.
[cited by applicant]
Palazzo et al., “Randomized clinical trial of LigaSure.TM. versus open haemorrhoidectomy” British Journal of Surgery 2002,89,154-157 “Innovations in Electrosurgery” Sales/Product Literature; Dec. 31, 2000.
[cited by applicant]
Paul G. Horgan, “A Novel Technique for Parenchymal Division During Hepatectomy” The American Journal of Surgery, vol. 181, No. 3, Apr. 2001 pp. 236-237.
[cited by applicant]
Peterson et al., “Comparison of Healing Process Following Ligation with Sutures and Bipolar Vessel Sealing” Surgical Technology International (2001).
[cited by applicant]
R. Gennari et al., (Jun. 2000) “Use of Technetium-99m-Labeled Colloid Albumin for Preoperative and Intraoperative Localization of Non palpable Breast Lesions,” American College of Surgeons. 190(6):692-699.
[cited by applicant]
Valleylab Brochure. “Reducing Needlestick Injuries in the Operating Room” 1 page, Mar. 2001.
[cited by applicant]
Reidenbach, (1995) “First Experimental Results with Special Applicators for High-Frequency Interstitial Thermotherapy”, Society Minimally Invasive Therapy, 4(Suppl 1):40 (Abstr).
[cited by applicant]
Richard Wolf Medical Instruments Corp. Brochure, “Kleppinger Bipolar Forceps & Bipolar Generator” 3 pages, Jan. 1989.
[cited by applicant]
Rothenberg et al., “Use of the LigaSure.TM. Vessel Sealing System in Minimally Invasive Surgery in Children” Int'l Pediatric Endosurgery Group (I PEG) 2000.
[cited by applicant]
Sayfan et al., “Sutureless Closed Hemorrhoidectomy: A New Technique” Annals of Surgery, vol. 234, No. 1, Jul. 2001, pp. 21-24.
[cited by applicant]
Sengupta et al., “Use of a Computer-Controlled Bipolar Diathermy System in Radical Prostatectomies and Other Open Urological Surgery” ANZ Journal of Surgery (2001)71.9 pp. 538-540.
[cited by applicant]
Sigel et al., “The Mechanism of Blood Vessel Closure by High Frequency Electrocoagulation” Surgery Gynecology & Obstetrics, Oct. 1965 pp. 823-831.
[cited by applicant]
Solbiati et al., (2001) “Percutaneous Radio-frequency Ablation of Hepatic Metastases from Colorectal Cancer: Long-term Results in 117 Patients”, Radiology, vol. 221, pp. 159-166.
[cited by applicant]
Solbiati et al. (1995) “Percutaneous US-guided RF Tissue Ablation of Liver Metastases: Long-term Follow-up”, Radiology, pp. 195-203.
[cited by applicant]
Strasberg et al., “Use of a Bipolar Vassel-Sealing Device for Parenchymal Transection During Liver Surgery” Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery, vol. 6, No. 4, Jul./Aug. 2002 pp. 569-574.
[cited by applicant]
Stuart W. Young, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Basic Principles, Raven Press, New York, 1984.
[cited by applicant]
Sugita et al., “Bipolar Coagulator with Automatic Thermocontrol” J. Neurosurg., vol. 41, Dec. 1944, pp. 777-779.
[cited by applicant]
Sylvain Labonte et al., “Monopole Antennas for Microwave Catheter Ablation”, IEEE Trans. on Microwave Theory and Techniques, vol. 44, No. 10, pp. 1832-1840, Oct. 1995.
[cited by applicant]
T. Matsukawa et al., “Percutaneous Microwave Coagulation Therapy in Liver Tumors”, Acta Radiologica, vol. 38, pp. 410-415, 1997.
[cited by applicant]
T. Seki et al., (1994) “Ultrasonically Guided Percutaneous Microwave Coagulation Therapy for Small Hepatocellular Carcinoma,” Cancer 74(3):817.cndot.825.
[cited by applicant]
Urologix, Inc.-Medical Professionals: Targis.TM. Technology (Date Unknown). “Overcoming the Challenge” located at: <http://www.urologix.com!medicaUtechnology.html > last visited on Apr. 27, 2001, 3 pages.
[cited by applicant]
Urrutia et al., (1988). “Retractable-Barb Needle for Breast Lesion Localization: Use in 60 Cases,” Radiology 169(3):845-847.
[cited by applicant]
Valleylab Brochure, “Valleylab Electroshield Monitoring System” 2 pages, Nov. 1995.
[cited by applicant]
ValleyLab Brochure, “Electosurgery: A Historical Overview”, Innovations in Electrosurgery, 1999.
[cited by applicant]
Vallfors et al., “Automatically Controlled Bipolar Electrocoagulation-′COA-COMP” Neurosurgical Review 7:2-3 (1984) pp. 87-190.
[cited by applicant]
W. Scott Helton, “LigaSureTM Vessel Sealing System: Revolutionary Hemostasis Product for General Surgery” Sales/Product Literature 1999.
[cited by applicant]
Wald et al., “Accidental Burns”, JAMA, Aug. 16, 1971, vol. 217, No. 7, pp. 916-921.
[cited by applicant]
Walt Boyles, “Instrumentation Reference Book”, 2002, Butterworth-Heinemann, pp. 262-264.
[cited by applicant]
Wonnell et al., “Evaluation of Microwave and Radio Frequency Catheter Ablation in a Myocardium-Equivalent Phantom Model”, IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering, vol. 39, No. 10, Oct. 1992; pp. 1086-1095.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 98300964.8 dated Dec. 13, 2000.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 98944778 dated Nov. 7, 2000.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 98958575.7 dated Oct. 29, 2002.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 02786604.5 dated Feb. 10, 2010.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 03721482 dated Feb. 6, 2006.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 04009964 dated Jul. 28, 2004.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 04013772 dated Apr. 11, 2005.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 04015980 dated Nov. 3, 2004.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 04015981.6 dated Oct. 25, 2004.
[cited by applicant]
Anonymous. Blunt Tubes with Finished Ends. Pointed Cannula, Popper & Sons Biomedical Instrument Division. (Products Price List), one page, Jul. 19, 2000.
[cited by applicant]
Anonymous. Ground Cannulae, ISPG, New Milford, CT, (Advertisement) one pages, Jul. 19, 2000.
[cited by applicant]
B. Levy M.D. et al., “Randomized Trial of Suture Versus Electrosurgical Bipolar Vessel Sealing in Vaginal Hysterectomy” Obstetrics & Gynecology. vol. 102, No. 1, Jul. 2003.
[cited by applicant]
B. Levy M.D. et al., “Update on Hysterectomy New Technologies and Techniques” OBG Management. Feb. 2003.
[cited by applicant]
B. Levy M.D.. “Use of a New Vessel Ligation Device During Vaginal Hysterectomy” FIGO 2000, Washington, D.C.
[cited by applicant]
B. F. Mullan et al., (May 1999) “Lung Nodules: Improved Wire for CT-Guided Localization,” Radiology 211:561-565.
[cited by applicant]
B. T. Heniford M.D. et al., “Initial Research and Clinical Results with an Electrothermal Bipolar Vessel Sealer” Oct. 1999.
[cited by applicant]
Bergdahl et al., “Studies on Coagulation and the Development of an Automatic Computerized Bipolar Coagulator” Journal of Neurosurgery 75:1, (Jul. 1991) pp. 148-151.
[cited by applicant]
Bulletin of the American Physical Society, vol. 47, No. 5, Aug. 2002, p. 41.
[cited by applicant]
C. F. Gottlieb et al., “Interstitial Microwave Hyperthermia Applicators having Submillimetre Diameters”, Int. J. Hyperthermia, vol. 6, No. 3, pp. 707-714, 1990.
[cited by applicant]
C. H. Durney et al.. “Antennas for Medical Applications”, Antenna Handbook: Theory Application and Design, p. 24-40. Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1988 New York, V.T. Lo, S.W. Lee.
[cited by applicant]
Carbonell et al., “Comparison of the Gyrus PlasmaKinetic Sealer and the Valleylab LigaSure.TM. Device in the Hemostasis of Small, Medium, and Large-Sized Arteries” Carolinas Laparoscopic and Advanced Surgery Program, Ca…
[cited by applicant]
Carus et al., “Initial Experience With the LigaSure. TM. Vessel Sealing System in Abdominal Surgery” Innovations That Work, Jun. 2002.
[cited by applicant]
Chicharo et al., “A Sliding Goertzel Algorithm” Aug. 1996 DOS pp. 283-297 Signal Processing, Elsevier Science Publishers B.V. Amsterdam, NL, vol. 52. No. 3.
[cited by applicant]
Chou, C.K., (1995) “Radiofrequency Hyperthermia in Cancer Therapy,” Chapter 941n Biologic Effects of Nonionizing Electromagnetic Fields, CRC Press, Inc., pp. 1424-1428.
[cited by applicant]
Chung et al., “Clinical Experience of Sutureless Closed Hemorrhoidectomy with LigaSure.TM.” Diseases of the Colon & Rectum, vol. 46, No. 1, Jan. 2003.
[cited by applicant]
Cosman et al., “Methods of Making Nervous System Lesions” in William RH, Rengachary SS (eds): Neurosurgery, New York: McGraw.cndot.Hill, vol. 111, (1984), pp. 2490-2499.
[cited by applicant]
Cosman et al., “Radiofrequency Lesion Generation and its Effect on Tissue Impedence”, Applied Neurophysiology, 51:230-242, 1988.
[cited by applicant]
Cosman et al., “Theoretical Aspects of Radiofrequency Lesions in the Dorsal Root Entry Zone”, Neurosurgery 15: (1984) pp. 945-950.
[cited by applicant]
Crawford et al., “Use of the LigaSure.TM. Vessel Sealing System in Urologic Cancer Surger” Grand Rounds in Urology 1999, vol. 1, Issue 4, pp. 10-17.
[cited by applicant]
Dulemba et al. “Use of a Bipolar Electrothermal Vessel Sealer in Laparoscopically Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy” Sales/Product Literature; Jan. 2004.
[cited by applicant]
E. David Crawford, “Evaluation of a New Vessel Sealing Device in Urologic Cancer Surgery” Sales/Product Literature 2000.
[cited by applicant]
E. David Crawford, “Use of a Novel Vessel Sealing Technology in Management of the Dorsal Veinous Complex” Sales/Product Literature 2000.
[cited by applicant]
Esterline, “Light Key Projection Keyboard” 2004 Advanced Input Systems, located at: <http://www.advanced-input.com/lightkey> last visited on Feb. 10, 2005.
[cited by applicant]
Esterline Product Literature, “Light Key: Visualize a Virtual Keyboard. One With No Moving Parts”. Nov. 1, 2003; 4 pages.
[cited by applicant]
Geddes et al., “The Measurement of Physiologic Events by Electrical Impedence”, Am. J. MI, Jan. Mar. 1964, pp. 16-27.
[cited by applicant]
Goldberg et al., “Image-guided Radiofrequency Tumor Ablation: Challenges and Opportunities—Part I”, (2001) J Vasc. Interv. Radiol, vol. 12, pp. 1021-1032.
[cited by applicant]
Goldberg et al. (1995) “Saline-enhanced RF Ablation: Demonstration of Efficacy and Optimization of Parameters”, Radiology, 197(P): 140 (Abstr).
[cited by applicant]
Goldberg et al., “Tissue Ablation with Radiofrequency: Effect of Probe Size, Gauge, Duration, and Temperature on Lesion Volume” Acad Radio (1995) vol. 2, No. 5, pp. 399-404.
[cited by applicant]
H. Schwarzmaier et al., “Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Microwave Induced Tissue Heating” Dept. of Laser Medicine & Dept. of Diagnostic Radiology; Heinrich-Heine-University, Duesseldorf Germany; Dec. 8, 1994; pp. 729-731.
[cited by applicant]
Heniford et al., “Initial Results with an Electrothermal Bipolar Vessel Sealer” Surgical Endoscopy (2001) 15:799-801.
[cited by applicant]
Herman at al., “Laparoscopic Intestinal Resection With the LigaSure.TM. Vessel Sealing System: A Case Report” Innovations That Work, Feb. 2002.
[cited by applicant]
Humphries Jr. et al., “Finite.cndot. Element Codes to Model Electrical Heating and Non.cndot. Linear Thermal Transport in Biological Media”, Proc. ASME HTD-355, 131 (1997).
[cited by applicant]
Jan D. McRury et al., The Effect of Ablation Sequence and Duration on Lesion Shape Using Rapidly Pulsed Radiofrequency Energy Through Electrodes, Feb. 2000, Springer Netherlands. vol. 4; No. 1. pp. 307-320.
[cited by applicant]
Jarrett et al., “Use of the LigaSure.TM. Vessel Sealing System for Peri-Hilar Vessels in Laparoscopic Nephrectomy” Sales/Product Literature 2000.
[cited by applicant]
Johnson et al. “Evaluation of a Bipolar Electrothermal Vessel Sealing Device in Hemorrhoidectomy” Sales/Product Literature; Jan. 2004.
[cited by applicant]
Johnson, “Evaluation of the LigaSure.TM. Vessel Sealing System in Hemorrhoidectormy” American College of Surgeons (ACS) Clinic La Congress Poster (2000).
[cited by applicant]
Johnson et al., “New Low-Profile Applicators for Local Heating of Tissues”, IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering, vol. BME-31, No. 1, Jan. 1984, pp. 28-37.
[cited by applicant]
Johnson, “Use of the LigaSure.TM. Vessel Sealing System in Bloodless Hemorrhoidectomy” Innovations That Work, Mar. 2000.
[cited by applicant]
Joseph G. Andriole, M.D., et al., “Biopsy Needle Characteristics Assessed in the Laboratory”, Radiology 148: 659-662, Sep. 1983.
[cited by applicant]
Joseph Ortenberg, “LigaSure.TM. System Used in Laparoscopic 1st and 2nd Stage Orchiopexy” Innovations That Work, Nov. 2002.
[cited by applicant]
K. Ogata, Modern Control Engineering, Prentice-Hall, Englewood Cliffs, N.J., 1970.
[cited by applicant]
Kennedy et al. “High-burst-strength, feedback-controlled bipolar vessel sealing” Surgical Endoscopy (1998) 12:876-878.
[cited by applicant]
Kopans, D.B. et al., (Nov. 1985) “Spring Hookwire Breast Lesion Localizer: Use with Rigid-Compression. Mammographic Systems,” Radiology 157(2):537-538.
[cited by applicant]
Koyle et al., “Laparoscopic Palomo Varicocele Ligation in Children and Adolescents” Pediatric Endosurgery & Innovative Techniques, vol. 6, No. 1, 2002.
[cited by applicant]
LigaSure.TM. Vessel Sealing System, the Seal of Confidence in General , Gynecologic, Urologic, and Laparaoscopic Surgery, Sales/Product Literature, Jan. 2004.
[cited by applicant]
Livraghi et al., (1995) “Saline-enhanced RF Tissue Ablation in the Treatment of Liver Metastases”, Radiology, p. 140 (Abstr).
[cited by applicant]
Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas, “Compact Directional Microwave Antenna for Localized Heating,” NASA Tech Briefs, Mar. 2008.
[cited by applicant]
M. A. Astrahan, “A Localized Current Field Hyperthermia System for Use with 192-Iridium Interstitial Implants” Medical Physics. 9(3), May-Jun. 1982.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 06020574.7 dated Oct. 2, 2007.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 06020583.8 dated Feb. 7, 2007.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 06020584.6 dated Feb. 1, 2007.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 06020756.0 dated Feb. 16, 2007.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 06022028.2 dated Feb. 13, 2007.
[cited by applicant]
European Exam Report from Appl. No. 11010176.3 dated Nov. 7, 2012.
[cited by applicant]
Extended European Search Report from Appl. No. 13004834.1 dated Jan. 8, 2014.
[cited by applicant]
Extended European Search Report from Appl. No. 14200555.2 dated Apr. 22, 2015.
[cited by applicant]
European Exam. Report from Appl. No. 11010175.5 dated Jul. 25, 2013.
[cited by applicant]
Extended European Search Report from Appl. No. 14152429.8 dated Apr. 9, 2014.
[cited by applicant]
Japanese Office Action from Appl. No. JP 2011-282887 dated Aug. 4, 2015.
[cited by applicant]
Japanese Office Action from Appl. No. 2011-287386 dated Aug. 4, 2015.
[cited by applicant]
Japanese Office Action from Appl. No. 2011-283289 dated Oct. 6, 2015.
[cited by applicant]
Japanese Office Action from Japanese Appl. No. 2011-287386 dated Dec. 8, 2015.
[cited by applicant]
Japanese Office Action and English Translation from Japanese Appl. No. 2011-287386 dated Mar. 29, 2016.
[cited by applicant]
Pre-trial Examination Report from Japanese Appl. No. 2011-283289 dated Sep. 13, 2016.
[cited by applicant]
Reconsideration Report from Japanese Appl. No. 2011-287386 dated Sep. 7, 2016.
[cited by applicant]
Extended European Search Report, Application No. EP 16161331.0, dated Oct. 26, 2016.
[cited by applicant]
Extended European Search Report, Application No. EP 16182779.5, dated Nov. 14, 2016.
[cited by applicant]
Japanese Office Action with English language translation from Appl. No. 2016-095550 dated Feb. 28, 2017.
[cited by applicant]
Magdy F. Iskander et al., “Design Optimization of Interstitial Antennas”, IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering, vol. 36, No. 2, Feb. 1989, pp. 238-246.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report dated Apr. 9, 2014 in European Application No. 14152429.
[cited by applicant]
U.S. Appl. No. 08/136,098, filed Oct. 14, 1993, Roger A. Stern.
[cited by applicant]
U.S. Appl. No. 08/483,742, filed Jun. 7, 1995, Roger A. Stern.
[cited by applicant]
Alexander et al., “Magnetic Computerized Tomography Resonance Image-Directed Stereotactic Neurosurgery: Use of Image Fusion with to Enhance Spatial Accuracy” Journal Neurosurgery, 83 (1995), pp. 271-276.
[cited by applicant]
Anderson et al., “A Numerical Study of Rapid Heating for High Temperature Radio Frequency Hyperthermia” International Journal of Bio-Medical Computing, 35 (1994), pp. 297-307.
[cited by applicant]
Anonymous. (1999) Auto Suture MIBB Site Marker: Single Use Clip Applier, United States Surgical (Product instructions), 2 pages.
[cited by applicant]
Anonymous. (2001) Disposable Chiba Biopsy Needles and Trays, Biopsy and Special Purpose Needles Cook Diagnostic and Interventional Products Catalog (products list), 4 pages.
[cited by applicant]
Anonymous. (1987) Homer Mammalok. TM. Breast Lesion Needle/Wire Localizer, Namic.RTM. Angiographic Systems Division, Glens Falls, New York, (Hospital products price list), 4 pages.
[cited by applicant]
Anonymous. (1999) MIBB Site Marker, United States Surgical (Sales brochure), 4 pages.
[cited by applicant]
Search Report EP 09156861.8 dated Aug. 4, 2009.
[cited by applicant]
Search Report EP 09161502.1 dated Sep. 2, 2009.
[cited by applicant]
Search Report EP 09161502.1 extended dated Oct. 30, 2009.
[cited by applicant]
Search Report EP 09165976.3 extended dated Mar. 17, 2010.
[cited by applicant]
Search Report EP 09166708 dated Oct. 15, 2009.
[cited by applicant]
Search Report EP 09166708.9 dated Mar. 18, 2010.
[cited by applicant]
Search Report EP 09169376.2 extended dated Dec. 16, 2009.
[cited by applicant]
Search Report EP 09172188.6 extended dated Apr. 23, 2010.
[cited by applicant]
Search Report EP 09172838.6 extended dated Jan. 20, 2010.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 09173268.5 extended dated Jan. 27, 2010.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 10001767.2 extended dated Jun. 18, 2010.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 10004950.1 extended dated Jul. 2, 2010.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 10004951.9 extended dated Jul. 2, 2010.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 10158944.8 extended dated Jun. 21, 2010.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 10161722.3 extended dated Jun. 16, 2010.
[cited by applicant]
European Search Report EP 10163235.4 dated Aug. 10, 2010.
[cited by applicant]
International Search Report PCT/US98/18640 dated Jan. 29, 1999.
[cited by applicant]
International Search Report PCT/US98/23950 dated Jan. 14, 1999.
[cited by applicant]
International Search Report PCT/US99/24869 dated Feb. 11, 2000.
[cited by applicant]
International Search Report PCT/US01/11218 dated Aug. 14, 2001.
[cited by applicant]
International Search Report PCT/US01/11224 dated Nov. 13, 2001.
[cited by applicant]
International Search Report PCT/US01/11340 dated Aug. 16, 2001.
[cited by applicant]
International Search Report PCT/US01/11420 dated Oct. 16, 2001.
[cited by applicant]