JP2019511295A - User interface and lock function for positioning of multiple components in the body - Google Patents

Abstract

  Disclosed embodiments include devices, systems, and methods for positioning of electrodes within the body. In an exemplary embodiment, an instrument for slidably moving the plurality of features relative to the sheath inserted into the body and positioned relative to the reference point is configured to move the primary electrode A primary actuator, a secondary actuator configured to move a secondary electrode, and a control mechanism. The control mechanism selectively blocks movement of the primary actuator based on the position of the secondary actuator and at least one of the secondary actuator based on the position of the primary actuator, and locks the position of the primary actuator and the secondary actuator. It is configured to

Description

  The present disclosure relates to a user interface and locking feature for positioning of multiple components within the body.

  The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

  Inserting and manipulating thin elements inside a living or other object allows for a type of analysis, diagnosis and treatment of ever-increasing pace with minimally invasive techniques for those bodies or objects. As two examples, endoscopic imaging and catherization procedures have allowed the assessment and treatment of multiple internal injuries without invasive surgery.

  The electrosurgical procedure also provides minimally invasive therapy by selectively applying electrical current to selected tissues. The electrosurgical procedure extends one or more electrodes through an opening or small incision to the desired location in the body and then applies radio frequency ("RF") current to the electrodes to achieve that location It involves coagulating and / or ablating tissue. Monopolar electrosurgical instruments involve the use of only one electrode, which also interacts with a neutral electrode connected to the patient's body. Bipolar electrosurgical instruments typically include a user interface used to position two electrodes, which may include distal and proximal electrodes.

  Positioning of one or two electrodes at a desired location is an important part of such electrosurgical procedures. Moving and holding the electrodes in place presents challenges for medical personnel to manage the procedure, especially when it is necessary to move or hold two or more electrodes independently of one another There is something to do.

  Disclosed embodiments include an instrument for slidably moving a plurality of components within the body, a system for treating tissue at a reference point, and moving the electrode to a position for electrical treatment with ablation at the reference point Including methods for

  In an exemplary embodiment, an instrument for slidably moving the plurality of features relative to the sheath inserted into the body and positioned relative to the reference point is configured to move the primary electrode A primary actuator, a secondary actuator configured to move a secondary electrode, and a control mechanism. The control mechanism selectively blocks movement of the primary actuator based on the position of the secondary actuator and at least one of the secondary actuator based on the position of the primary actuator, and locks the position of the primary actuator and the secondary actuator. It is configured to

  In another exemplary embodiment, a system for treating tissue at a reference point is controllably configured to selectively provide power between a first pole and a second pole. Includes power supply. The electrosurgical instrument references a sheath inserted into the body and including a primary electrode electrically coupled to a first pole of the power source and a secondary electrode electrically coupled to a second pole of the power source. It is configured to be transported near the point. The sheath actuator is configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point. The sheath lock is configured to selectively lock the position of the sheath. The primary actuator is configured to move the primary electrode. The secondary actuator is configured to move the secondary electrode. The control mechanism selectively blocks movement of the primary actuator based on the position of the secondary actuator and at least one of the secondary actuator based on the position of the primary actuator, and also for the primary actuator and the secondary actuator. It includes a control mechanism that is configured to lock the position.

  In a further exemplary embodiment, a method is provided for preparing an electrode for electrical treatment involving ablation of tissue at a reference point. A sheath including a primary electrode and a secondary electrode is extended and the secondary electrode is contained within the primary electrode and is initially coupled to move with the primary electrode. Movement of the primary electrode is unlocked, the primary electrode is moved to a first position near the reference point, and the primary electrode is locked in place at the first position. The movement of the secondary electrode is unlocked, the secondary electrode is moved to a second position near the reference point, and the secondary electrode is locked in place at the second position.

  In an additional exemplary embodiment, an instrument for slidably moving the plurality of features relative to the sheath inserted into the body and positioned relative to the reference point is configured to move the primary electrode. A secondary actuator configured to deploy the secondary electrode by moving the secondary electrode independently of the primary electrode, and a control mechanism. A control mechanism is configured to selectively allow movement of the primary actuator, selectively disconnects the secondary actuator from the primary actuator, and allows movement of the secondary actuator within a predetermined range And an actuator interlock configured to selectively prevent operation of the primary release device.

  In another exemplary embodiment, a system for treating tissue at a reference point includes a power supply configured to selectively provide power between a first pole and a second pole. . The electrosurgical instrument references a sheath inserted into the body and including a primary electrode electrically coupled to a first pole of the power source and a secondary electrode electrically coupled to a second pole of the power source. It is configured to be transported near the point. The sheath actuator is configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point, and the sheath lock is configured to selectively lock the position of the sheath. The primary actuator is configured to move the primary electrode. The secondary actuator is configured to deploy the secondary electrode by moving the secondary electrode independently of the primary electrode. A control mechanism is configured to selectively allow movement of the primary actuator, selectively disconnects the secondary actuator from the primary actuator, and allows movement of the secondary actuator within a predetermined range And an actuator interlock configured to selectively prevent operation of the primary release device.

  In a further exemplary embodiment, a method of using an instrument to move an electrode to a position for electrical treatment involving ablation of tissue at a reference point includes extending a sheath towards the reference point. The sheath includes a primary electrode mechanically coupled to the primary actuator and selectively lockable by a primary release device. The sheath also includes a secondary electrode mechanically coupled to the secondary actuator and lockable by the secondary release device, wherein the secondary electrode is slidably received within the primary electrode. The primary release device is actuated to allow movement of the primary actuator. The primary actuator is moved to move the primary electrode to the first position relative to the reference point. The primary release device is locked to lock the primary actuator and maintain the primary electrode in the first position. The secondary release device is actuated to decouple the secondary actuator from the primary actuator to allow movement of the secondary actuator independent of the primary actuator. The secondary actuator is moved to move the secondary electrode to the second position with respect to the reference point. Lock the secondary release device to lock the secondary actuator and maintain the secondary electrode in the second position.

  In an additional exemplary embodiment, an instrument for slidably moving the plurality of features relative to the sheath inserted into the body and positioned relative to the reference point is mechanically coupled to the primary electrode. And a housing defining a guide slot having a section transverse to the axis of the housing and a section parallel to the axis of the housing. A sleeve having a distal end is configured to engage the electrosurgical device, and a proximal end is configured to be slidably received within the first end of the housing. A latch disposed at the first end of the housing is configured to selectively move the housing along the sleeve to move the primary electrode to the first position relative to the reference point. The secondary actuator is received within the housing and coupled with the secondary electrode, wherein the secondary actuator is configured to move independently from the primary electrode parallel to the axis of the housing. The interlock lever is mechanically coupled to the secondary actuator and extends through the guide slot. The interlock lever also includes a clamp configured to lock the secondary actuator to the sleeve when the secondary electrode reaches the second position relative to the reference point.

  In another exemplary embodiment, a system for treating tissue at a reference point includes a power supply configured to selectively provide power between a first pole and a second pole. . The electrosurgical device is based on a sheath that is inserted into the body and includes a primary electrode electrically coupled to the first pole of the power source and a secondary electrode electrically coupled to the second pole of the power source. It is configured to be transported near the point. The sheath actuator is configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point. The sheath lock is configured to selectively lock the position of the sheath. The housing is mechanically coupled to the primary electrode and includes a guide slot having a section transverse to the axis of the housing and a section parallel to the axis of the housing. A sleeve having a distal end is configured to engage with the bronchoscope, and a proximal end is configured to be slidably received within the first end of the housing. The latch is disposed at the first end of the housing and is configured to selectively move the housing along the sleeve to move the primary electrode to a first position relative to a reference point. A secondary actuator received within the housing is coupled to the secondary electrode and configured to move independently from the primary electrode parallel to the axis of the housing. The interlock lever is mechanically coupled with the secondary actuator and extends through the guide slot, and the interlock lever, when the secondary electrode reaches the second position with respect to the reference point, the secondary actuator And a clamp configured to lock the sleeve to the sleeve.

  In a further exemplary embodiment, a method of moving an electrode to a position for performing an electrical procedure involving ablation of tissue at a reference point comprises: a primary electrode mechanically coupled to the housing and selectively lockable by a latch; And extending a sheath including a secondary electrode mechanically coupled to the secondary actuator and lockable by the interlock lever. The secondary electrode is slidably received within the primary electrode. The latch is released to allow the housing to move the primary electrode relative to the reference point. The housing is slid to move the primary electrode to the first position relative to the reference point. Secure the latch to prevent movement of the housing relative to the sleeve. The interlock lever separates the secondary electrode from the primary electrode and moves through a series of positions in the guide slot on the housing to move the secondary electrode to the second position relative to the reference point.

  In an additional embodiment, an instrument for slidably moving the plurality of features relative to the sheath inserted into the body and positioned relative to the reference point is mechanically coupled to the secondary electrode; And a secondary electrode slider supporting the secondary actuator. The primary electrode slider is configured to slidably and rotatably receive the secondary electrode slider, the primary electrode slider being mechanically coupled to the primary electrode, supporting the primary actuator, and the secondary actuator And define an intermediate guide slot configured to receive and engage. The outer housing includes a first end facing towards the reference point. The outer housing is configured to slidably and rotatably receive the primary electrode slider, and a first guide slot configured to receive and engage the primary actuator, and a secondary actuator A second guide slot is defined that is configured to receive the secondary actuator when positioned below the second guide slot.

  In another exemplary embodiment, a system for treating tissue at a reference point includes a power supply configured to selectively provide power between a first pole and a second pole. . The electrosurgical device is based on a sheath that is inserted into the body and includes a primary electrode electrically coupled to the first pole of the power source and a secondary electrode electrically coupled to the second pole of the power source. It is configured to be transported near the point. The sheath actuator is configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point. The sheath lock is configured to selectively lock the position of the sheath. The secondary electrode slider is mechanically coupled to the secondary electrode and supports the secondary actuator. The primary electrode slider is configured to slidably and rotatably receive the secondary electrode slider, is mechanically coupled to the primary electrode, supports the primary actuator, and receives and engages the secondary actuator. Define an intermediate guide slot that is configured to The outer housing has a first end facing towards the reference point and configured to slidably and rotatably receive the primary electrode slider. The outer housing also has a first guide slot configured to receive and engage the primary actuator, and to receive the secondary actuator when the secondary actuator is positioned below the second guide slot It also includes a second guide slot that is configured.

  In a further exemplary embodiment, the method of moving the electrode to a position for electrical treatment involving ablation of tissue at a reference point comprises extending the sheath, the sheath being in the primary electrode and in the primary electrode. It includes a secondary electrode slidably received. An instrument coupled to the primary electrode and the secondary electrode is deployed, and the instrument includes a secondary electrode slider mechanically coupled to the secondary electrode and supporting the secondary actuator. The instrument includes a primary electrode slider mechanically coupled with the primary electrode, supporting the primary actuator, and defining an intermediate guide slot configured to receive and engage the secondary actuator. The apparatus also includes an outer housing having a first end, the outer housing being a first guide slot configured to receive and engage the primary actuator, and a second guide slot for the secondary actuator. And define a second guide slot configured to receive the secondary actuator when positioned below. The primary actuator is moved toward the front end of the outer housing to position the primary electrode at a first position relative to a reference point. The outer housing is rotated to expose the middle guide slot under the second guide slot. The secondary actuator is moved toward the first end of the outer housing to position the primary electrode at a second position relative to the reference point.

  In an additional exemplary embodiment, an apparatus is provided for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath inserted into the body and positioned relative to a reference point. The lock rod is configured to be fixed at a position relative to the reference point. The primary housing is mechanically coupled to the primary electrode. The primary housing further includes an outwardly directed guide slot configured to selectively limit and allow sliding movement of the guide member. The primary housing also includes a primary lock channel configured to rotatably receive the lock rod and to prevent sliding movement of the primary housing relative to the lock rod. The secondary housing is mechanically coupled to the secondary electrode. The secondary housing is configured to slidably and rotatably receive the primary housing and further includes an internal channel that supports the guide member. The secondary housing also includes a secondary lock channel configured to selectively lock the lock rod into one of a fixedly engageable and a slidably engageable. Rotation of the secondary housing selectively moves the lock rod within the primary lock channel in and out and within the secondary lock channel to selectively sliding movement relative to at least one lock rod of the primary housing and the secondary housing. Allow and block.

  In another exemplary embodiment, a system for treating tissue at a reference point selectively supplies power to primary and secondary electrodes between a first pole and a second pole. Includes a configured power supply. The lock rod is configured to be fixed at a position relative to the reference point. The sheath actuator is configured to move a sheath housing the primary and secondary electrodes relative to a reference point and to position the lock rod relative to the reference point. The sheath lock is configured to selectively lock the position of the sheath and the lock rod. The primary housing is mechanically coupled to the primary electrode. The primary housing further includes an outwardly directed guide slot configured to selectively limit and allow sliding movement of the guide member. The primary housing also includes a primary lock channel configured to rotatably receive the lock rod and to prevent sliding movement of the primary housing relative to the lock rod. The secondary housing is mechanically coupled to the secondary electrode. The secondary housing is configured to slidably and rotatably receive the primary housing and further includes an internal channel that supports the guide member. The secondary housing also includes a secondary lock channel configured to selectively lock the lock rod into one of a fixedly engageable and a slidably engageable. Rotation of the secondary housing selectively moves the lock rod within the primary lock channel in and out and within the secondary lock channel to selectively sliding movement relative to at least one lock rod of the primary housing and the secondary housing. Allow and block.

  In a further exemplary embodiment, a method is provided for moving an electrode to a position for electrical treatment involving ablation of tissue at a reference point using an instrument. A sheath is extended which includes a primary electrode and a secondary electrode slidably received within the primary electrode. An instrument coupled to the primary and secondary electrodes is deployed. The device includes a lock rod configured to be fixed at a position relative to the reference point. The apparatus also includes a primary housing mechanically coupled to the primary electrode. The primary housing further includes an outwardly directed guide slot configured to selectively limit and allow sliding movement of the guide member. The primary housing also includes a primary lock channel configured to rotatably receive the lock rod and to prevent sliding movement of the primary housing relative to the lock rod. The apparatus also includes a secondary housing mechanically coupled to the secondary electrode. The secondary housing is configured to slidably and rotatably receive the primary housing and further includes an internal channel that supports the guide member. The secondary housing also includes a secondary lock channel configured to selectively lock the lock rod into one of a fixedly engageable and a slidably engageable. The secondary housing continuously slides and rotates to move the secondary housing and the primary housing to move the primary electrode and the secondary electrode to a position relative to the reference point, and the primary housing slides to the primary position. Move the electrode.

  Further features, advantages and areas of application will become apparent from the description provided herein. It is to be understood that the description and specific examples are intended for the purpose of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

  The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure in any way. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a schematic form of a portion of an exemplary system for treating tissue. FIG. 5 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to a reference point. FIG. 5 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to a reference point. FIG. 5 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to a reference point. FIG. 5 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to a reference point. FIG. 5 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to a reference point. It is the schematic of a sheath actuator. FIG. 8B is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, primary electrode, and secondary electrode relative to the reference point, corresponding to the position of the sheath actuator of FIGS. 7A and 8A, respectively. It is the schematic of a sheath actuator. FIG. 8B is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, primary electrode, and secondary electrode relative to the reference point, corresponding to the position of the sheath actuator of FIGS. 7A and 8A, respectively. FIG. 7 is an enlarged external view of an exemplary sheath actuator and sheath lock. FIG. 10 is a cut away view of the sheath actuator and sheath lock of FIG. 9; FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIGS. 12A, 13A, 14A, 18A, 19A, 20A, 32A, 33A, and 34A respectively correspond to the position of the sheath actuator for the sheath, the primary electrode and the secondary electrode to the reference point FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end. FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIGS. 12A, 13A, 14A, 18A, 19A, 20A, 32A, 33A, and 34A respectively correspond to the position of the sheath actuator for the sheath, the primary electrode and the secondary electrode to the reference point FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end. FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIGS. 12A, 13A, 14A, 18A, 19A, 20A, 32A, 33A, and 34A respectively correspond to the position of the sheath actuator for the sheath, the primary electrode and the secondary electrode to the reference point FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end. FIG. 12 is a cutaway view of the primary actuator and primary release device of the user interface of FIG. FIG. 12 is a cutaway view of the primary actuator and primary release device of the user interface of FIG. FIG. 12 is a cutaway view of the primary actuator and primary release device of the user interface of FIG. 11; FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIGS. 12A, 13A, 14A, 18A, 19A, 20A, 32A, 33A, and 34A respectively correspond to the position of the sheath actuator for the sheath, the primary electrode and the secondary electrode to the reference point FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end. FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIGS. 12A, 13A, 14A, 18A, 19A, 20A, 32A, 33A, and 34A respectively correspond to the position of the sheath actuator for the sheath, the primary electrode and the secondary electrode to the reference point FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end. FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIGS. 12A, 13A, 14A, 18A, 19A, 20A, 32A, 33A, and 34A respectively correspond to the position of the sheath actuator for the sheath, the primary electrode and the secondary electrode to the reference point FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end. FIG. 12 is a cutaway view of the secondary actuator and secondary release device of the user interface of FIG. 11; FIG. 12 is a cutaway view of the secondary actuator and secondary release device of the user interface of FIG. 11; FIG. 12 is a side view of the actuator interlock of the user interface of FIG. 11; FIG. 12 is a side view of the actuator interlock of the user interface of FIG. 11; FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 11 showing an actuator interlock. FIG. 12 is a side view of the actuator interlock of the user interface of FIG. 11; FIG. 12 is a side view of the actuator interlock of the user interface of FIG. 11; FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 11 showing an actuator interlock. FIG. 12 is a partial cutaway side view of the user interface of FIG. 11 illustrating the actuator interlock in a second position to enable use of the primary release device. FIG. 12 is a partial cutaway perspective view of the user interface of FIG. 11 illustrating the actuator interlock in a second position; FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 11 showing an actuator interlock. FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIGS. 12A, 13A, 14A, 18A, 19A, 20A, 32A, 33A, and 34A respectively correspond to the position of the sheath actuator for the sheath, the primary electrode and the secondary electrode to the reference point FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end. FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIGS. 12A, 13A, 14A, 18A, 19A, 20A, 32A, 33A, and 34A respectively correspond to the position of the sheath actuator for the sheath, the primary electrode and the secondary electrode to the reference point FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end. FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIGS. 12A, 13A, 14A, 18A, 19A, 20A, 32A, 33A, and 34A respectively correspond to the position of the sheath actuator for the sheath, the primary electrode and the secondary electrode to the reference point FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIG. 36 is an exploded view of the user interface of FIG. 35. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIG. 36 is an exploded view of the latch and interlock lever of the user interface of FIG. 35. FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the interlock lever of the user interface of FIG. 35. FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the interlock lever of the user interface of FIG. 35. FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the interlock lever of the user interface of FIG. 35. It is a top view of the user interface of FIG. FIG. 44 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 35 consistent with the plan views of FIGS. 43A, 44A, 45A, 46A, and 47A, respectively. FIG. 45 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, primary electrode, and secondary electrode relative to the reference point, corresponding to the position of the user interface shown in FIGS. 43A, 44A, 45A, 46A, and 47A respectively. . It is a top view of the user interface of FIG. FIG. 44 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 35 consistent with the plan views of FIGS. 43A, 44A, 45A, 46A, and 47A, respectively. FIG. 45 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, primary electrode, and secondary electrode relative to the reference point, corresponding to the position of the user interface shown in FIGS. 43A, 44A, 45A, 46A, and 47A respectively. . It is a top view of the user interface of FIG. FIG. 44 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 35 consistent with the plan views of FIGS. 43A, 44A, 45A, 46A, and 47A, respectively. FIG. 45 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, primary electrode, and secondary electrode relative to the reference point, corresponding to the position of the user interface shown in FIGS. 43A, 44A, 45A, 46A, and 47A respectively. . It is a top view of the user interface of FIG. FIG. 44 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 35 consistent with the plan views of FIGS. 43A, 44A, 45A, 46A, and 47A, respectively. FIG. 45 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, primary electrode, and secondary electrode relative to the reference point, corresponding to the position of the user interface shown in FIGS. 43A, 44A, 45A, 46A, and 47A respectively. . It is a top view of the user interface of FIG. FIG. 44 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 35 consistent with the plan views of FIGS. 43A, 44A, 45A, 46A, and 47A, respectively. FIG. 45 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, primary electrode, and secondary electrode relative to the reference point, corresponding to the position of the user interface shown in FIGS. 43A, 44A, 45A, 46A, and 47A respectively. . FIG. 7 is a side view of another embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIG. 49 is an exploded view of the user interface of FIG. 48. FIG. 49 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 48 is manipulated to position the sheath. FIG. 51 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode with respect to the reference point respectively corresponding to the position of the sheath actuator of FIGS. 50A and 51A. FIG. 49 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 48 is manipulated to position the sheath. FIG. 51 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode with respect to the reference point respectively corresponding to the position of the sheath actuator of FIGS. 50A and 51A. FIG. 49 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 48 is used to position an electrode in the body. FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 48 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 52A, 53A, 54A, 55A, and 56A, respectively. Reference points corresponding to the positions of the user interface shown in FIGS. 52A-52B, 53A-53B, 54A-54B, 55A-55B, 56A-56B, and 57A-57B, respectively. FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to FIG. FIG. 49 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 48 is used to position an electrode in the body. FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 48 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 52A, 53A, 54A, 55A, and 56A, respectively. Reference points corresponding to the positions of the user interface shown in FIGS. 52A-52B, 53A-53B, 54A-54B, 55A-55B, 56A-56B, and 57A-57B, respectively. FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to FIG. FIG. 49 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 48 is used to position an electrode in the body. FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 48 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 52A, 53A, 54A, 55A, and 56A, respectively. Reference points corresponding to the positions of the user interface shown in FIGS. 52A-52B, 53A-53B, 54A-54B, 55A-55B, 56A-56B, and 57A-57B, respectively. FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to FIG. FIG. 49 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 48 is used to position an electrode in the body. FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 48 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 52A, 53A, 54A, 55A, and 56A, respectively. Reference points corresponding to the positions of the user interface shown in FIGS. 52A-52B, 53A-53B, 54A-54B, 55A-55B, 56A-56B, and 57A-57B, respectively. FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to FIG. FIG. 49 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 48 is used to position an electrode in the body. FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 48 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 52A, 53A, 54A, 55A, and 56A, respectively. Reference points corresponding to the positions of the user interface shown in FIGS. 52A-52B, 53A-53B, 54A-54B, 55A-55B, 56A-56B, and 57A-57B, respectively. FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to FIG. FIG. 49 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 48 is used to position an electrode in the body. FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 48 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 52A, 53A, 54A, 55A, and 56A, respectively. Reference points corresponding to the positions of the user interface shown in FIGS. 52A-52B, 53A-53B, 54A-54B, 55A-55B, 56A-56B, and 57A-57B, respectively. FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to FIG. FIG. 7 is a side view of another embodiment of a user interface for positioning of multiple components with respect to a reference point. FIG. 59 is an exploded cutaway view of the user interface of FIG. 58. FIG. 59 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 58 is manipulated to position the sheath. FIG. 59 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 58 is manipulated to position the sheath. FIG. 59 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 58 is manipulated to position the sheath. FIG. 59 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 58 is manipulated to position the sheath. FIG. 59 is a side view and cross-sectional view of the components of the user interface of FIG. 58. FIG. 59 is a side view and cross-sectional view of the components of the user interface of FIG. 58. FIG. 59 is a side view and cross-sectional view of the components of the user interface of FIG. 58. FIG. 59 is a side view and cross-sectional view of the components of the user interface of FIG. 58. FIG. 59 is a side view and cross-sectional view of the components of the user interface of FIG. 58. FIG. 59 is a side view and cross-sectional view of the components of the user interface of FIG. 58. FIG. 59 is a side view and cross-sectional view of the components of the user interface of FIG. 58. FIG. 59 is a side view and cross-sectional view of the components of the user interface of FIG. 58. FIG. 59 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 58 is used to position an electrode in the body. FIG. 89 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 88 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 65A, 66A, 67A, 68A, 69A, and 70A, respectively. FIG. 89 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 88 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 65A, 66A, 67A, 68A, 69A, and 70A, respectively. Reference points corresponding to the positions of the user interface shown in FIGS. 65A to 65C, 66A to 66C, 67A to 67C, 68A to 68C, 69A to 69C, and 70A to 70C, respectively. FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to FIG. FIG. 59 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 58 is used to position an electrode in the body. FIG. 89 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 88 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 65A, 66A, 67A, 68A, 69A, and 70A, respectively. FIG. 89 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 88 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 65A, 66A, 67A, 68A, 69A, and 70A, respectively. Reference points corresponding to the positions of the user interface shown in FIGS. 65A to 65C, 66A to 66C, 67A to 67C, 68A to 68C, 69A to 69C, and 70A to 70C, respectively. FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to FIG. FIG. 59 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 58 is used to position an electrode in the body. FIG. 89 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 88 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 65A, 66A, 67A, 68A, 69A, and 70A, respectively. FIG. 89 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 88 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 65A, 66A, 67A, 68A, 69A, and 70A, respectively. Reference points corresponding to the positions of the user interface shown in FIGS. 65A to 65C, 66A to 66C, 67A to 67C, 68A to 68C, 69A to 69C, and 70A to 70C, respectively. FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to FIG. FIG. 59 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 58 is used to position an electrode in the body. FIG. 89 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 88 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 65A, 66A, 67A, 68A, 69A, and 70A, respectively. FIG. 89 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 88 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 65A, 66A, 67A, 68A, 69A, and 70A, respectively. Reference points corresponding to the positions of the user interface shown in FIGS. 65A to 65C, 66A to 66C, 67A to 67C, 68A to 68C, 69A to 69C, and 70A to 70C, respectively. FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to FIG. FIG. 59 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 58 is used to position an electrode in the body. FIG. 89 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 88 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 65A, 66A, 67A, 68A, 69A, and 70A, respectively. FIG. 89 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 88 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 65A, 66A, 67A, 68A, 69A, and 70A, respectively. Reference points corresponding to the positions of the user interface shown in FIGS. 65A to 65C, 66A to 66C, 67A to 67C, 68A to 68C, 69A to 69C, and 70A to 70C, respectively. FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to FIG. FIG. 59 is a side view in which the user interface of FIG. 58 is used to position an electrode in the body. FIG. 89 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 88 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 65A, 66A, 67A, 68A, 69A, and 70A, respectively. FIG. 89 is a cross-sectional view of the user interface of FIG. 88 consistent with the side views of FIGS. 65A, 66A, 67A, 68A, 69A, and 70A, respectively. Reference points corresponding to the positions of the user interface shown in FIGS. 65A to 65C, 66A to 66C, 67A to 67C, 68A to 68C, 69A to 69C, and 70A to 70C, respectively. FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the positioning of the distal end of the sheath, the primary electrode, and the secondary electrode relative to FIG. FIG. 59 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 58 manipulated to position multiple components relative to a reference point. FIG. 59 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 58 manipulated to position multiple components relative to a reference point. FIG. 59 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 58 manipulated to position multiple components relative to a reference point. FIG. 59 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 58 manipulated to position multiple components relative to a reference point. FIG. 59 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 58 manipulated to position multiple components relative to a reference point. FIG. 59 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 58 manipulated to position multiple components relative to a reference point. FIG. 59 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 58 manipulated to position multiple components relative to a reference point. FIG. 59 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 58 manipulated to position multiple components relative to a reference point. FIG. 59 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 58 manipulated to position multiple components relative to a reference point. FIG. 59 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 58 manipulated to position multiple components relative to a reference point. FIG. 59 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 58 manipulated to position multiple components relative to a reference point. FIG. 59 is a side view of the user interface of FIG. 58 manipulated to position multiple components relative to a reference point. 5 is a flow chart of an exemplary method of positioning a component using a user interface. 5 is a flow chart of an exemplary method of positioning a component using a user interface. 5 is a flow chart of an exemplary method of positioning a component using a user interface. 5 is a flow chart of an exemplary method of positioning a component using a user interface. 5 is a flow chart of an exemplary method of positioning a component using a user interface.

  The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses. The first two digits of the three digit reference number and the first two digits of the four digit reference number are the first digit of the one digit figure number where the element appears first and the first of the figure numbers It will be noted that each corresponds to the two digits of.

  The following description describes various embodiments of user interfaces for positioning electrodes for electrosurgical instruments, as well as by way of illustration and not limitation, as well as systems including such user interfaces and methods of using the same. . As described in detail below, the electrosurgical procedure positions the first and second electrodes in proximity to a reference point to which an electrical procedure, such as a procedure involving ablation, is applied. For specific examples, user interfaces and methods of their use may be used to ablate and / or coagulate tissue, to remove damage, and to perform other medical procedures inside the lungs.

  It will be appreciated that the various embodiments of the user interface described herein can help to simplify the process of electrode positioning and holding the electrodes in place. As will be described later, various embodiments of the user interface select the electrode in place by the combination of the push of the release device and sliding of the lever, rotation and sliding of the housing, or sliding of the lever and rotation of the housing To achieve the required positioning and locking.

  Referring to FIG. 1, a system 100 is provided for treating tissue at a reference point in an anatomical region of a patient (not shown in FIG. 1). System 100 may optionally be a bipolar or unipolar radio frequency (RF) system for treating a patient's tissue. In particular, the system 100 may be, for example, percutaneous and / or endoscopic (including bronchoscopic) surgical such as partial and / or complete ablation of cancerous and / or non-cancerous organ lesions It can be used for coagulation and / or ablation of soft tissue during treatment. As further described, tissue is treated by positioning one or more electrodes in close proximity to the tissue to be treated and applying a current to the tissue at a reference point.

  In some embodiments, the system 100 includes an electrosurgical instrument such as a user interface 101, an electrosurgical radio frequency (RF) generator operating as a switchable current source 114, an infusion pump 116, and a bronchoscope 118 without limitation. Or include equipment. It will be appreciated that the electrosurgical instrument or instrument may also include an endoscope or any other electrosurgical instrument desired for a particular application. Bronchoscope 118 may be configured to receive user interface 101 at port 148 to allow user interface 101 to manipulate the electrode at the reference point via bronchoscope 118.

  User interface 101 is in electrical communication with switchable current source 114 through conductor 130. In some embodiments, conductor 130 is connected to outlet 131 when the system is operated in bipolar mode. The conductor 130 may be coupled to the outlet 131 using an electrical connector 134 configured to electrically engage the outlet 131. In some other embodiments, the system 100 can be operated in monopolar mode when the conductor 130 is connected to the secondary outlet 133, optionally using an adapter (not shown in FIG. 1) . The user interface 101 is further connected to the infusion pump 116 by means of a tube 132 which facilitates the flow of liquid, eg saline, from the infusion pump 116 to the user interface 101.

  The switchable current source 114 may be operated by the use of the foot unit 120 electrically connected to the switchable current source 114. Foot unit 120 directs pedal 122 to direct switchable current source 114 to apply current to the electrode (s) (described below) to cut and / or ablate tissue, and generator 114. , Includes a pedal 124 that directs low current to the electrode (s) to cause it to coagulate tissue.

  In various embodiments, the bronchoscope 118 includes an insertion tube 119 that allows for the insertion of the sheath 103 into the body (not shown). The distal end 105 of the sheath 103 is delivered to a position near the tissue to be treated at the reference point. Sheath 103 includes an electrode (not shown) for delivery to the desired treatment position. The positioning of the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 and the distal end of the electrode (not shown in FIG. 1) may be controlled by the user interface 101 received by the bronchoscope 118 at the port 148.

  Referring to FIGS. 2-6, the distal end of the component is positioned relative to the reference point 201 using various embodiments of the user interface. The reference point 201 may be, for example, a point within the target tissue 202, such as a lesion or any portion of tissue to be treated in the body. As given by way of illustration only and without limitation, all of the exemplary embodiments of the user interface described below, as will be described with reference to FIGS. The components can be positioned as described further with reference. The descriptions of FIGS. 2-6 are provided as a basis for describing the operation of various embodiments of the user interface.

  In a particular embodiment, the secondary electrode 211 is slidably received in the primary electrode 207 and the primary electrode 207 is slidably received in the sheath 203. In certain embodiments, primary electrode 207 and secondary electrode 211 move with sheath 203 until user interface is manipulated to move primary electrode 207 and / or secondary electrode 211 separately. This means that the electrodes 207 and 211 move simultaneously with the sheath 203 and through the same distance. As discussed below, in some cases, the secondary electrode 211 may also move with the primary electrode 209 while both electrodes move independently from the sheath 103. Components contained within other components are represented by dashed lines in FIGS.

  Referring to FIG. 2, sheath 203, primary electrode 207, and secondary electrode 211 are shown positioned at an initial position relative to reference point 201 at or near target tissue 202. More specifically, FIG. 2 illustrates the insertion tube 119 and the bronchoscope 118 etc. of FIG. 1 before being moved exactly to the desired position by operating a user interface (not shown) described further below. As such, it shows components that can be positioned upon insertion of the sheath 203 through the insertion tube within the bronchoscope.

  The distal end 205 of the sheath 203 is positioned proximate to the target tissue 202. The primary electrode 207 is slidably received within the sheath 203 with the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 at or near the distal end 205 of the sheath. Specifically, FIG. 2 shows the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 positioned, for example, in front of the distal end 205 of the sheath 203. Next, the secondary electrode 211 is slidably received within the primary electrode 207 with the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 positioned only within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207.

  Referring to FIG. 3, the sheath 203, primary electrode 207, and secondary electrode 211 are shown to be positioned once the sheath 203 approaches the reference point 201. In contrast to FIG. 2, in FIG. 3 the distal end 205 of the sheath 203 is approaching the reference point 201 at the edge of the target tissue 202. Just as in FIG. 2, the primary electrode 207 and the secondary electrode 211 did not move separately because the primary electrode 207 and the secondary electrode 211 did not move separately by the operation of the user interface (not shown). It moved with. Thus, at the deployed position closer to the reference point 201, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 remains positioned in front of the distal end 205 of the sheath 203. Similarly, the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 remains positioned only within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. As the distal end 205 of the sheath 203 moves to the desired position, as described further with reference to the sheath lock embodiment, which may be part of the user interface or may be used with the user interface, the sheath 203 It can be locked in place.

  Referring to FIG. 4, sheath 203, primary electrode 207 and secondary electrode 211 are positioned such that primary electrode 207 is directed from sheath 203 towards reference point 201 and into target tissue 202. It is shown. In certain embodiments, secondary electrode 211 may be a primary electrode unless the user interface (not shown) is operated to disengage movement of secondary electrode 211 from movement of primary electrode 207. It moves with the primary electrode 207 while moving in the same direction and the same distance as 207. Thus, as shown in FIG. 4, when the primary electrode 207 extends beyond the distal end 105 of the sheath 103, the secondary electrode 211 moves with the primary electrode 207. As shown in FIG. 4, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 extends towards the reference point 201 and beyond the distal end 205 of the sheath 203. The distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 remains positioned only within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. In certain embodiments, the primary electrode 207 allows the distal end 209 to penetrate tissue, such as the target tissue 202, to allow the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 to reach a desired location. And it is in the form of a needle in a state in which the secondary electrode 211 can be placed at a desired point.

  As described further below, when the distal end 205 of the sheath 203 is in the desired position and locked in place, the embodiment of the user interface allows the primary electrode 207 to move independently of the sheath 103 The primary electrode 207 can be unlocked. Also as described further below, embodiments of the user interface move the movement of the secondary electrode 211 of the primary electrode 207 such that the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 moves with the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. It may remain locked with the movement. Also as described further below, embodiments of the user interface allow one or both of the primary electrode 207 and the secondary electrode 211 to be fixed in place, ie, to stay in place, such that the electrode 207 and One or both of 211 is fixed at the current position. Thus, for example, while the position of the primary electrode 207 may be fixed, the secondary electrode 211 may move independently from the primary electrode 207, or the position of the secondary electrode 211 may be fixed while the primary electrode 207 is It can move independently from the secondary electrode 211. Also, both electrodes 207 and 211 may be fixed in place, for example, when the procedure is administered by applying an electrical current using an electrosurgical instrument such as that shown in system 100 of FIG.

  Referring to FIG. 5, the sheath 203, the primary electrode 207, and the secondary electrode 211 are shown as positioned when the secondary electrode 211 is extended from the primary electrode 207. The distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 is deployed at a location beyond the reference point 201 and opposite the target tissue 202 from the primary electrode 207. In a particular embodiment, secondary electrode 211 is configured as a coiled wire that is received within primary electrode 207 in a linearized configuration. When the user interface is manipulated to extend the secondary electrode 211 independently from the primary electrode 207, the secondary electrode 211 becomes helical. As a result, the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 spirals into tissue, such as the target tissue 202. The helical progression of the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 can help to fix the position of the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 during the procedure. FIG. 5 also shows an insulator 215 along the length of the secondary electrode 211, which stops the short circuit at the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211. When an electrical current is applied to the proximal end (not shown) of the primary electrode 207 and the secondary electrode 211, the electrical current flows from the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the uninsulated distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211. The insulator 215 electrically insulates the secondary electrode 211 from the primary electrode 207 so that it can flow only between them.

  Referring to FIG. 6, sheath 303, primary electrode 207, and secondary electrode 511 are partially stored with primary electrode 207 away from reference point 201 and partially from target tissue 202 and into sheath 503. It is shown to be positioned when stored. As mentioned above, the shape of the needle of the primary electrode 207 assists in the positioning of the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 at the desired location. However, when the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 is placed in that position, the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 can be energized to treat the target tissue 202 near the reference point 201. It may be desirable to move the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 away from the reference point 201 to create a desired gap between the and the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. As discussed further below, once the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 is secured in the desired position, an embodiment of the user interface (not shown in FIG. 6) may be used to partially retract as shown in FIG. To enable, the primary electrode 207 can be unlocked and allowed to move independently of the secondary electrode 211. Once partially stored, embodiments of the user interface also allow the primary electrode 207 to lock in place.

  Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the device 700 can be used to perform diagnostic or therapeutic tasks by extending a sheath or catheter into the body (not shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B). An exemplary user interface 701 is received at port 748 of an electrosurgical instrument 718, such as a mirror or another minimally invasive device. In the instrument 700 of FIG. 7A, the user interface 701 is configured to move the sheath actuator 704 and the sheath 103 to the desired position to position the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 relative to the reference point 201. Including 706. In some embodiments, the sheath actuator 704 may be a slidable mechanism that includes a slidable sleeve 712 received within the collar 714. The slidable sleeve 712 may be locked in place at the collar 714 by the sheath lock 706. The sheath lock 706 is in mechanical engagement with the spring loaded lock pin, thumbscrew or slidable sleeve 712 to bring the slidable sleeve 712 and then the sheath 703 into position at the desired position. It may be another mechanism that is configured to lock.

  In some embodiments, sheath actuator 704 may be part of user interface 701. For example, in the user interface 701 of FIG. 7A, the slidable sleeve 712 fixedly engages the interface housing 710 at the distal end 716 of the interface housing 710. The collar 714 may then engage the port 748 on the electrosurgical instrument 718, where the movement of the slidable sleeve 712 within the collar 714 controls the movement of the sheath 103. In some other embodiments, the sheath actuator 704 may be, for example, part of an electrosurgical instrument 718. Collar 714 may be fixably joined to port 748. A slidable sleeve 712 may be associated with the port 748 to engage the distal end 716 of the interface housing 710. In another embodiment, the slidable sleeve 712 may be fixedly coupled to the distal end 716 of the interface housing 710 and releasably engages the collar 714 fixedly attached to the port 748 It may be configured to Any of these embodiments of the sheath actuator 704 may facilitate movement of the sheath 103 as described below.

  In various embodiments, the user interface 701 includes a primary electrode 207 slidably received within the sheath 103 and a distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 positioned in front of the distal end 105 of the sheath 103. Mechanically coupled. The user interface 701 also has the secondary electrode 211 slidably received in the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 positioned only in the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. Mechanically coupled. An embodiment of the user interface 701 is such that the primary electrode 207 and the second electrode 211 move together with the sheath 103 as the sheath moves as described with reference to FIG. The next electrode 211 may be configured to be fixed to the sheath 103.

  Referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the operation of the sheath actuator 704 shows an example of how the sheath 103 can be unlocked and moved to the position described above with reference to FIG. In the configuration shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the sheath actuator 704 is manipulated to allow the sheath 103 to move a distance 819 closer to the reference point 201 and the target tissue 202. Specifically, manipulation of the sheath lock 706 of the sheath actuator 704 to allow movement of the slidable sleeve 712 within the collar 714 causes the interface housing 710 to move a distance 819 relative to the sheath 103. The same distance 819 is moved toward the point 702. Once the sheath 103 reaches the desired position, the slidable sleeve 712 can be locked in place at the collar 714 by the sheath lock 706. As described further below, embodiments of the user interface 701 maintain the position of the primary electrode 207 and the secondary electrode 211 relative to the sheath 103 when moving the sheath 103 using the sheath actuator 704. Thus, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 also move a distance 219 towards the reference point 201.

  Referring to FIG. 9, an enlarged external view shows the exemplary sheath actuator 704 and sheath lock 706 in more detail. The sheath actuator 704 is fixedly attached to a connector 920 configured to engage a port (not shown in FIG. 9) of an electrosurgical instrument (not shown in FIG. 9) such as a bronchoscope And a slidable sleeve 712. The sheath lock 706 in the embodiment of FIG. 9 is a collar 714 fixedly attached to the interface housing 710 for moving the sheath (not shown in FIG. 9) described above with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. Is a thumbscrew that may be loosened to allow for movement of the. After operating the interface housing 710 to slide the collar 714 relative to the slidable sleeve 712 to move the sheath to the desired position, the sheath lock 706 is used to lock the position of the sheath. , Re-engage by turning the thumbscrew, etc.

  Referring to FIG. 10, a cut away view of an exemplary sheath actuator 704 illustrates the internal operation of the sheath actuator 704 of FIG. As mentioned above, the sheath actuator 704 includes a slidable sleeve 712 fixedly attached to the connector 920. In some embodiments, the sheath lock 706 can be secured to the interface housing 710 to move the primary electrode 207 and the secondary electrode 211 received within the sheath 103 in unison with the sheath 103. A thumb screw that may be loosened to allow movement of the attached collar 714. After moving the interface housing 710 to slide the collar 714 against the slidable sleeve 712 to move the sheath 103 to the desired position, the sheath lock 706 is turned to slide the collar 714 in position It is fixed relative to the possible sleeve 712 to fix the position of the sheath 103.

  Referring to FIG. 11, in some embodiments, the exemplary user interface 1101 is used to position the sheath 1003, primary electrode, and secondary electrode relative to a reference point (not shown in FIG. 11). The user interface 1101 includes components that move parallel to or transverse to the axis 1121 or rotate around a curve 1123 around the axis 1121 as described further below. The user interface 1101 is within the collar 1114 fixedly attached to the interface housing 1110 when it is released by the sheath lock 1106 to move the sheath 103 as described above with reference to the connector 1120 and FIGS. 9 and 10 It includes a sheath actuator 1104 that includes a slidable sleeve 1112 that moves. The user interface 1101 also receives leads 1122 that provide electrical connection between the electrodes and the switchable current source (not shown in FIG. 11) as described above with reference to FIG. The user interface 1101, as well as other embodiments of the user interface described throughout the present description, also receives a saline source (not shown) that may be passed through the sheath to facilitate application of the electrosurgical procedure. Although not explicitly shown in the subsequent depiction of another exemplary embodiment of the user interface described with reference to FIGS. 35-75, it can be switched with the electrode using similar leads It will be appreciated that an electrical connection between the current source may be provided.

  The exemplary user interface 1101 shown in FIG. 11 includes several user controls whose operations and effects are described in more detail in the following figures. The primary release device 1130 is configured to unlock movement of a primary electrode (not shown) that moves through operation of a primary actuator 1132 extending from the lower side 1124 of the housing 1110 and extending from the upper side 1126 of the housing 1110 ing. The primary actuator 1132 is mechanically coupled to the primary electrode (not shown in FIG. 11) so that when the primary actuator 1132 is moved relative to the housing 1110, the primary electrode is at a reference point (also FIG. 11). (Not shown). Depth gauge 1190 on housing 1110 includes an indicator 1192 that indicates the insertion depth of the primary electrode beyond the end of the sheath (not shown).

  The secondary unlocking device 1150 is integrated with a secondary actuator 1152 disposed along the upper side 1126 of the housing and is configured to unlock and control the movement of the secondary electrode, respectively. The secondary actuator 1152 is fixably coupled to a secondary grip 1153 extending from the lower side 1124 of the housing 1110. The secondary actuator (not shown) moves the secondary electrode relative to the reference point (not shown in FIG. 11) when the secondary actuator 1152 moves relative to the housing 1110. Mechanically coupled to

  An actuator interlock 1140 positioned along the lower side 1124 of the housing 1110 limits movement of the secondary electrode relative to the primary electrode, blocking use of the primary release device 1130, as described further below, the secondary electrode (Not shown) can be detached from the primary electrode. As shown below, the actuator interlock 1140 moves with the primary actuator 1132 and the secondary actuator when both the primary actuator 1132 and the secondary actuator 1152 move simultaneously. As discussed further below, primary release device 1130, actuator interlock 1140, and secondary release device 1150 facilitate the placement of the distal ends of the electrodes within the body, with simultaneous and independent selective movement of the electrodes. Make it possible.

  Referring to FIGS. 12A and 12B, in some embodiments, when the sheath 103 is deployed near the reference point 201, the user interface 1101 has an initial deployed configuration. As described with reference to FIGS. 7A-10, the sheath actuator 1104 and the sheath lock 1106 are pre-engaged to bring the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 near the reference point 201 as shown in the inset. Position at the desired position. As mentioned above, the primary electrode 207 is received within the sheath 103 with the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 initially positioned in front of the distal end 105 of the sheath 103. The secondary electrode 211 is received within the primary electrode 207 with the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 positioned in front of the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207.

  Referring to FIGS. 13A and 13B, in some embodiments of the user interface 1101, the primary release device 1130 is engaged to allow the primary electrode 207 to move. Specifically, release of the primary release device 1130 is accomplished by pressing the primary release device 1130 in the direction 1331 towards the housing 1110 of the user interface. Operation of primary release device 1130 does not cause movement of sheath 103 or electrode 207 or 211 relative to reference point 201, as shown in the inset of FIG. 12B, but only allows movement of primary electrode 207, further described below. Similarly, the secondary electrode 211 may or may not be moved.

  Referring to FIGS. 14A and 14B, the user interface 1101 is shown after the primary actuator 1132 has moved the distance 1433. After the primary actuator 1132 has moved, the primary release device 1130 can be disengaged to move the primary release device in a direction 1431 away from the housing 1110 to return to the original position shown with reference to FIG. 12A. Make it Four actions result from the movement of the primary actuator 1132. First, as shown in the insertion of FIG. 14B, movement of the primary actuator 1132 extends the primary electrode 207 beyond the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 and into the target tissue 202, thereby the primary electrode Position the distal end 209 of 207 close to the reference point 201. Second, the secondary electrode 211 travels with the primary electrode 207 with the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 continuously positioned in front of the distal end 209 of the secondary electrode 207. Third, the coincident movement of the primary electrode 207 and the secondary electrode 211 is reflected in the movement of the same distance 1433 of the actuator interlock 1140, the secondary releasing device 1150, the secondary actuator 1152, and the secondary gripping portion 1153. . Primary actuator 1132 and secondary actuator 1152 are mechanically coupled to allow coincident movement of primary electrode 207 and secondary electrode 211 as described further below. Fourth, the indicator 1192 of the depth gauge 1190 is also mechanically coupled to the primary actuator 1132. Thus, the distance 1433 that primary actuator 1132 and primary electrode 207 travel is indicated by indicator 1192 on depth gauge 1190.

  Referring to FIG. 15, the primary actuator 1132 and the primary release device 1130 may be the user interface described with reference to FIGS. 11-14B with the primary release device 1130 in the locked position shown in FIGS. 12A and 14A. Can be used in embodiments of the invention. The primary actuator 1132 is coupled to a primary electrode slider 1533 mechanically coupled to the primary electrode 207 to move the primary electrode 207 as described above with reference to FIGS. 2-6 and 12-14. Mechanically coupled. When the primary release device 1130 is in the locked position, the locking member 1534 extending through the inside of the primary actuator 1132 is biased by a biasing member such as a spring 1535 to provide a housing for the user interface of FIGS. 11-14. The locking pin 1536 is pushed into the starting notch 1537 by a locking rack 1538 (not shown in FIG. 15). The lock pin 1536 forces the starting notch 1537 to prevent movement of the primary actuator 1132 and thus also prevents movement of the primary electrode slider 1533 and primary electrode 207. Thus, by the primary release device 1130 in the locked position shown in FIG. 15, the primary electrode slider 1530 and the primary electrode 207 are locked in their current position.

  Referring to FIG. 16, the operation of primary actuator 1132 and primary release device 1130 is shown with primary release device 1130 engaged to allow movement of primary actuator 1132. When a force is applied to primary release device 1130 to move primary actuator 1132 in direction 1631, primary release device 1130 moves locking member 1534 in direction 1631 to compress spring 1535 and lock pin 1536 to start notch 1537 To allow movement of the primary actuator 1132. In other words, pressing of the primary release device 1130 releases the lock pin 1536 from the starting notch 1537 of the locking rack 1538 to allow the primary actuator 1132 to move the primary electrode slider 1533.

  Referring to FIG. 17, the movement of primary actuator 1132 in moving primary electrode slider 1533 and primary electrode 207 is shown while allowing primary actuator 1132 to move while primary release device 1130 is engaged. There is. As shown with reference to FIG. 16, enabling the release of the lock pin 1536 from the start-up notch 1537 by the primary actuator 1132 causes the lock member 1534 to compress the spring 1535 to cause the primary actuator 1132 and thus the , Primary electrode slider 1533 and primary electrode 207 allow movement in the direction 1731 relative to the housing 1110. The force applied to the primary release device 1130 continues to cause the locking member 1534 to compress the spring 1535, thus allowing the locking pin 1536 to move relative to the locking rack 1538. Here, when released in the position shown in FIG. 17, the lock pin 1536 can engage the selected notch 1739 in the locking rack 1538. It should be noted that the primary release device 1130 moves with the primary actuator 1132 as the primary actuator 1132 moves relative to the housing 1110. Thus, only the starting notch 1537, the locking rack 1538 and the housing 1110 remain in the same position in the embodiment of FIG.

  On release of the primary release device 1130, the pressure previously applied by the locking member 1534 on the spring 1535 is released. As a result, the spring 1535 presses against the locking member 1534, which in turn causes the locking pin 1536 to engage the selected notch 1739 in the locking rack 1538. Then, similar to the configuration shown in FIG. 15, the primary electrode slider 1530 and primary electrode 207 are then locked in a new position relative to the housing 1110, and the primary electrode of the body (also not shown in FIG. 17) The distal end of 207 (not shown in FIG. 15) is also moved.

  Referring to FIGS. 18A and 18B, in some embodiments, the primary electrode 207 can be flush with the distal end 209 just prior to the secondary unlocking device 1150 being engaged to unlock the movement of the secondary electrode 211. Deployed around point 201 and locked in place as shown in FIG. 14B. The secondary release device 1150 is integrated with the secondary actuator 1152. Specifically, the secondary release device 1150 is partially directed downward toward the interface housing 1110 to disengage the secondary actuator 1152 from the primary electrode slider (not shown in FIG. 18A). Configure the end of the secondary actuator 1152 that may be pressed in the direction 1831 of rotating 1152. The disengagement of the secondary actuator 1152 allows the secondary actuator 1152 and the fixably coupled secondary gripper 1153 to move independently from the primary actuator 1132 so that the secondary electrode 211 is the primary electrode 207. It is possible to move toward the reference point 102 independently of. The operation of the secondary release device 1152 to disengage the secondary actuator 1150 from the primary electrode slider is further described with reference to FIGS. 21 and 22.

  With reference to FIGS. 19A and 19B, in some embodiments of the user interface 1101, the secondary release device 1150 is pressed into the interface housing to allow movement of the secondary actuator 1152 independent of the primary actuator 1132. The secondary actuator 1152 may be partially rotated towards 1110. The secondary actuator 1152 is unlocked by pressing on the secondary unlocking device 1150, but the secondary actuator 1152 and the associated secondary gripper 1153 have not yet moved. Thus, the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 has not yet moved towards the reference point 201 as compared to the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207, as shown in the inset.

  Referring to FIGS. 20A and 20B, the secondary actuator 1152 moves the distance 2033 to exceed the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and beyond the reference point 201 and the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211. Out. The secondary actuator 1152 is fixably engaged with the secondary grip 1153. Thus, the secondary grip 1153 also travels the distance 2033. Lockably engaging the secondary actuator 1152 and the secondary grip 1153 allows the user (not shown) to exert force only on one side of the interface housing 1110 to move the secondary actuator 1152 It is possible to apply more force in extending the secondary electrode 211 than would otherwise be possible. This may, for example, be made of the secondary electrode 211 so that the distal end 213 of the coiled secondary electrode 211 can spiral into the tissue to secure the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 to the tissue. It can be important if the distal end 213 has been pushed into tissue (not shown). As the secondary actuator 1152 moves to extend the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211, the secondary release device 1150 is released to lock the position of the secondary actuator 1152 and thus, of the secondary electrode 211. Lock the position.

  As the secondary actuator 1152 travels a distance 2033, the actuator interlock 1140 also travels forward a distance 2033. As used in this description, the term "forward" refers to connector 1120 (FIG. 11) where the user interface engages a port of an electrosurgical instrument such as port 748 of bronchoscope 718 of FIGS. 7 and 8. It states the direction to go. In the figures that follow, the forward direction is consistently positioned either towards the left of the figure or out of the figure. As described further below, the actuator interlock 1140 abuts the primary release device 1130 (and thus the coupled primary actuator 1132) and the secondary gripper 1153 (and thus the coupled secondary actuator 1152) The forward movement of the secondary actuator 1152 and the secondary gripping portion 1153 is blocked when in operation. In various embodiments, for example, a pin (not shown) on the front end on the primary electrode slider 1533 may then stop movement of the secondary actuator 1152 and the secondary grip 1153 on the actuator interlock 1140. The end of the slot can be reached. Thus, the actuator interlock 1140 serves to limit the movement of the secondary actuator 1152 and thus the length to which the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 can extend beyond the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. The configuration of the actuator interlock 1140 and the operation of the actuator interlock are described with reference to FIGS. 23-31.

  Referring to FIG. 21, the secondary unlocking device 1150 and the secondary actuator 1152 are shown in the locked position. As described above with reference to FIGS. 12-17, the secondary electrode 211 moves with the primary electrode 207 when the secondary unlocking device 1150 is in the locked position. As mentioned above, in the embodiment of FIG. 21, the secondary release device 1150 is integrated with the secondary actuator 1152. The secondary actuator 1152 is rotatably attached to the secondary electrode slider 2151 at a pivot 2155. The spring 2157 maintains the secondary release device 2150 in the locked position when the secondary release device 1150 is not pressed. The secondary grip 1153 is fixedly coupled to the secondary electrode slider 2151 and moves (or does not move in some cases) with the secondary actuator 1152. When secondary release device 1150 is in the locked position, locking arms 2159 engage locking notches 2139 in primary electrode slider 1533. As shown in FIG. 21, the secondary electrode 211 is in the extended position where the primary actuator 1132 and the secondary actuator 1152 no longer move simultaneously.

  Referring to FIG. 22, the secondary unlocking device 1150 and the secondary actuator 1152 are shown in the unlocked position. As described above with reference to FIG. 19, the secondary unlocking device 1150 is unlocked by pressing the secondary unlocking device 1150, thereby causing the secondary actuator 1152 to deform the spring 2157 and thus the secondary The actuator 1152 is rotated about the pivot 2155 to the unlocked position. When the secondary actuator 1152 is rotated to the unlocked position, the locking arm 2159 is withdrawn from the locking notch 2139 thereby allowing the secondary actuator 1152 to move. Next, by applying a force to the secondary actuator 1152 and / or the secondary grip 1153, the operator (not shown in FIG. 22) is secondary as described above with reference to FIGS. 18-20. The electrode 211 can be extended independently from the primary electrode 207.

  In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, and as described above with reference to FIGS. 4 and 12-14, it may be desirable to be able to selectively move the primary and secondary electrodes simultaneously. . However, as described with reference to FIG. 6, once the secondary electrode is deployed, it may be desirable to partially withdraw the primary electrode while maintaining the position of the secondary electrode. Referring again to FIG. 4, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 may be needle-like to penetrate tissue at or adjacent to the reference point 201. The secondary electrode 211 moves with the primary electrode 207, thereby positioning the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode closer to the reference point 201. Referring to FIG. 5, the penetrating feature provided by this exemplary configuration of the primary electrode 207 is useful for deploying the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 at a desired position relative to the reference point 201. possible.

  However, once the position of the primary electrode 207 is utilized to deploy the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211, referring to FIG. 6, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is partially retracted. It may be desirable to apply current across the distance between the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 and the distal end 209 of the secondary electrode 207. Providing a degree of selective movement of the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 independent of the primary electrode 207 as shown in FIG. 6, as well as the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 being partially withdrawn Maintaining the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 when controlled is controlled by the actuator interlock 1140 operating with the primary actuator and the secondary actuator as further described below with reference to FIGS. Be done.

  Referring to FIG. 23, actuator interlock 1140 is illustrated as being located within housing 1110 of the user interface. Specifically, the actuator interlock 1140 includes a secondary grip 1153 (which moves with the secondary actuator as described above with reference to FIGS. 18-22) and a primary release device 1130 (FIGS. 12-17). Move with the primary actuator 1132 as described above with reference). Portions of primary release device 1130, actuator interlock 1140, and secondary grip 1153 extend from housing 1110 through channel 2349 on the lower side of housing 1110. As described above with reference to FIGS. 21 and 22, the secondary actuator 1152 engages the primary electrode slider 1533 to move the secondary electrode slider 2151 with the primary electrode slider 1533. The actuator interlock 1140 is in the first position shown in FIG. 23, with the second end 2341 of the actuator interlock 1140 abutting against the tip 2331 of the secondary actuator 1153 and the first end of the actuator interlock 1140 2342 is dimensioned to abut the trailing edge 2354 of the secondary electrode slider 1533 so that the actuator interlock 1140 is directed towards one another towards the secondary gripper 1153 (and hence the secondary actuator 1152). Control the relative movement of 1130 (and thus the primary actuator 1132). In various embodiments, a pin (not shown) fixed to the primary electrode slider 1533 slides within a slot (not shown) in the actuator interlock 1140 and the end of the slot in the actuator interlock 1140 This limits the movement of the pin and correspondingly provides a hard stop which limits the movement of the secondary electrode slider 2151. Thus, the secondary actuator 1140 operates to maintain the distance between the primary release device 1130 and the secondary grip 1153 while the actuator interlock 1140 is in the first position shown in FIG. .

  The actuator interlock 1140 also includes a lock bar (not shown in FIG. 23) that engages the primary release device 1130 as further described with reference to FIGS. 29-31. The lock bar prevents the primary release device from being engaged while the actuator interlock 1140 is in the first position, as described further below. The actuator interlock 1140 also engages a locking notch (not shown in FIG. 23) within the housing 1110 when the actuator interlock 1140 is in the second position, as described further below with reference to FIG. It also comprises locking teeth 2343 which are configured to The lock teeth 2343 may be used as the primary actuator (not shown in FIG. 23) and the primary release device 1130 as the secondary actuator (shown in FIG. 23) while the secondary electrode (not shown in FIG. The actuator interlock 1140 allows the primary electrode (not shown in FIG. 23) to be partially retracted so that it can be moved independently from the secondary gripping portion 1153 at 23 (not shown). Act to lock in place. Finally, as described further below, lever 2344 allows the operator to engage actuator interlock 1140 and rotate actuator interlock 1140 between the first and second positions. Make it

  Referring to FIG. 24, in the first position of the actuator interlock 1140, the locking teeth 2343 cover the locking notch 2446 in the housing 1110 to lock the secondary electrode (not shown in FIG. 24) in place. In a position to engage. The locking notch 2446 may be used after the secondary actuator and secondary grip (not shown in FIG. 24) have moved to extend the distal end of the secondary electrode (not shown in FIG. 24) as described above. , Lock teeth 2343 are positioned. As will be appreciated, and as described further below, when actuator interlock 1140 is rotated from the first position shown in FIG. 24 to the second position (FIGS. 26-28), locking teeth 2343 are: Retaining within locking notch 2446 prevents movement of actuator interlock 1140 relative to housing 1110, such as, for example, when primary release device 1130 is engaged and moved relative to the housing. As discussed further below, the use of locking teeth 2343 to fix the position of the actuator interlock 1140 serves to lock the secondary electrode slider and prevent movement of the secondary electrode as discussed further below ( Neither is shown in FIG.

  Referring to FIG. 25, actuator interlock 1140 is disposed within housing 1110 with actuator interlock 1140 shown in a first position. The actuator interlock 1140 rotates around the primary electrode 207 and the secondary electrode 211 inside the housing 1110. A lever 2344 extending out of the housing 1110 through the channel 2349 allows the user to engage and rotate the actuator interlock 1140. As previously shown in FIGS. 18-20, the interlock lever 2344 is located forward of the secondary actuator 1152 and the secondary grip 1153, where the forward direction is on the left side of the figure.

  With reference to FIG. 26, the actuator interlock 1140 may be configured such that the secondary electrode (not shown in FIG. 26) is deployed and the primary electrode (not shown in FIG. 26) is partially retracted. It is shown in position 2. A lever 2344 is used to rotate the actuator interlock 1140 relative to the housing 1110 to move the lock teeth 2343 of the actuator interlock 1140 into the second position within the channel 2349. The locking tooth 2343 then engages a locking notch (not shown in FIG. 26) to lock the actuator interlock 1140 in place. As described above with reference to FIG. 23, the actuator interlock 1140 may be configured with the primary release device (not shown in FIG. 26) and the secondary grip 1153 while the actuator interlock 1140 is in the first position. Maintain the distance between. However, when the actuator interlock 1140 is in the second position, as shown in FIG. 26, the actuator interlock 1140 is directed to the primary release device 1130 (and to the secondary grip 1153 (and thus the secondary actuator 1152). Thus, the relative movement of the primary actuators 1132) is no longer impeded. With the actuator interlock 1140 in the second position, the position of the secondary electrode slider 2151 is fixed relative to the housing 1110 and therefore can not move longitudinally relative to the housing 1110. However, primary actuator 1132 can move upon engagement with primary release device 1130. Therefore, the primary actuator (also not shown in FIG. 26) moves the primary actuator toward the secondary gripping portion 1153 and does not move the secondary electrode (not shown in FIG. 26). At 26 it is possible to move independently from the secondary actuator (also not shown in FIG. 26) in order to store it.

  Referring to FIG. 27, a second to illustrate how locking teeth 2343 engage locking notches 2446 within housing 1110 to lock the secondary electrode (not shown in FIG. 26) in place. Another view of the actuator interlock 1140 in position is provided. The locking notches 2446 receive locking teeth 2343 to lock the actuator interlock 1140 and fix the position of the secondary electrode slider 2151 in place while the primary actuator 1132 and primary electrode when the primary release device 1130 is engaged The slider 1533 can move. Again, the lever 2344 allows the user to move the actuator interlock 1140 from the first position (shown in FIGS. 23-25) to the second position (shown in FIGS. 26-28). become able to. A lever 2344 slidable across the channel 2349 that allows the actuator interlock 1140 to move to the second position has the property of a swipe lock that can be swiped from the first position to the second position Will be understood.

  Referring to FIG. 28, in the user interface 1101, the actuator interlock 1140 is rotated to the second position around the primary electrode 207 and the secondary electrode 211 inside the housing 1110. In FIG. 28, except that FIG. 25 shows the actuator interlock 1140 in the first position while the actuator interlock 1140 is rotating to the second position, FIG. It is similar to FIG. As described above with reference to FIGS. 26 and 27, lever 2344 (extending from actuator interlock 1140 out of housing 1110 through channel 2349 to rotate actuator interlock 1140 to the second position ) Is engaged by the user.

  Referring to FIG. 29, another view of actuator interlock 1140 is provided to illustrate the operation of lock bar 2945 in relation to actuator interlock 1140. The lock bar 2945 selectively prevents movement of the primary release device 1130. Once the primary electrode 207 is deployed with the distal end 209 at the desired position relative to the reference point 201, as described above with reference to FIG. Remains stationary. The lock bar 2945 prevents the primary release device 1130 from being engaged and prevents the primary actuator (not shown in FIG. 29) from moving so that the primary electrode moves while the secondary electrode is extended (Not shown in FIG. 29).

  With further reference to FIG. 29, the actuator interlock 1140 is shown in the first position, and as shown in FIG. 5, with the secondary release device and secondary actuator engaged, the secondary electrode (anywhere Also, it is positioned before moving independently from the primary actuator and the primary electrode (also not shown in FIG. 29). In this position, the distal end 2957 of the lock bar 2945 does not engage the primary release device 1130. As described above with reference to FIGS. 12-17, the primary release device 1130 and thus the primary actuator 1132 may be operated to move the primary electrode (not shown in FIG. 29) as desired. For example, and as also previously described with reference to FIGS. 14 and 22, until the secondary release device is engaged to the secondary actuator, the secondary electrode is thus the primary actuator and the primary electrode as described above. Move with

  Referring to FIG. 30, with the actuator interlock 1140 in the first position, the secondary actuator (not shown in FIG. 30) and thus the secondary grip 1153 is a secondary electrode (shown in FIG. 30). It is moving forward so as to extend (not shown). As a result, the actuator interlock 1140 moves forward, thus the lock bar 2945 extends through the lock channel 3060 in the primary release device 1130. Locking channel 3060 includes a locking lobe 3062 and an open lobe 3064. The lock bar 2945 passes the locking lobe 3062 of the lock channel 3060 when the actuator interlock 1140 is in the first position. As a result, when the user attempts to engage by pressing on the primary release device 1130 as described with reference to FIG. 13, the lock bar 2945 is provided on the first inner surface 3063 in the locking lobe 3062. Engaging, thereby preventing the primary release device 1130 from being pressed. However, as the actuator interlock 1140 rotates to the second position, as described further with reference to FIG. 31, the lock bar 2945 rotates with the actuator interlock 1140 and the lock bar 2945 opens lobes. Move into the 3064 Here, the lock bar 2945 no longer engages the first inner surface 3063 when the user attempts to press the primary release device 1130.

  Referring to FIG. 31, actuator interlock 1140 is rotated to a second position around primary electrode 207 and secondary electrode 211 within housing 1110. With the actuator interlock 1140 rotated to the second position, the lock bar 2945 is rotated into the open lobe 3064. With the lock bar 2945 extended through the open lobe 3064, the user can press the primary release device 1130 without engaging the face of the lock channel 3060 with the lock bar 2945. Thus, when the actuator interlock 1140 is moved to the second position, the primary release device 1130 can be engaged to allow partial retraction of the primary electrode 207, as described further below.

  Referring to FIGS. 32A and 32B, the secondary electrode 211 is deployed and locked in place. Before the primary release device 1130 engages and begins retraction of the primary electrode 207 and withdraws the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 away from the reference point 201, the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 Extending beyond point 201, actuator interlock 1140 has moved to a second position within housing 1110. Thus, when the secondary electrode 211 is extended and fixed in place, the primary electrode 207 is moved to position the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 relative to the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 to Application can be facilitated to provide the desired treatment. Once the actuator interlock 1140 is in the second position, as described with reference to FIGS. 29-31, the lock bar (not shown in FIG. 32A) does not prevent the primary release device 1130 from being depressed. Thus, the user interface is configured for partial withdrawal of the primary electrode 207.

  Referring to FIGS. 33A and 33, the primary release device 1130 is pushed in the direction 3331 towards the housing 1110 to release the primary actuator 1132. Primary actuator 1132 and primary release device 1130 can now be moved backwards to partially retract distal end 209 of primary electrode 207 away from reference point 201. Depression of the primary release device 1130 allows the primary actuator to move relative to the housing 1110 as described above with reference to FIGS. 12A-17. As previously described with reference to FIG. 22, previous actuation of the secondary release device 1150 caused the locking arm 2259 to disengage from the locking notch 2239 in the primary electrode slider 1533. As a result, the movement of the secondary actuator 1152 and the secondary electrode slider 2151 is no longer coupled to the primary electrode slider 1533. Referring again to FIG. 33A, the actuator interlock 1140 has been rotated to the second position so as not to block relative movement between the primary release device 1130 and the secondary grip 1153. Thus, the primary actuator 1132 and thus the primary electrode 207 may move independently from the secondary electrode 211.

  Referring to FIGS. 34A and 34B, the primary actuator 1132 travels a distance 3433 to store the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 by the same distance 3433. The primary release device 1130 is then released and moved in the direction 3431 as described above with reference to FIGS. 14A-17, where the primary actuator 1132 and primary release device 1130 are then moved relative to the housing 1110. Locked in place. Along with the movement of the primary electrode 207, the indicator 1192 on the depth gauge 1190 also travels a distance 3433 to reflect storage of the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. Thus, in these embodiments, the user interface provides for the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 to apply an electrical current to treat tissue at or near the reference point 201. Thus, it can be positioned close to the reference point 201 and at a desired position.

  Referring to FIG. 35, another embodiment of the user interface 3501 may be used to position the primary and secondary electrodes relative to a reference point (not shown in FIG. 35). For these embodiments, in these embodiments, the user interface 3501 moves parallel to or transverse to the axis 3521 as described further below, or a curve 3523 around the axis 3521 Includes components that rotate along In such embodiments, user interface 3501 includes a connector 3520 configured to engage an electrosurgical instrument such as a bronchoscope (not shown in FIG. 35). As compared to the previous embodiment of the user interface, these embodiments of the user interface 3501 do not include a sheath actuator. However, sheath actuators are added to these embodiments of the user interface 3501 as the sheath actuators described in connection with the previous embodiments, and as described with reference to FIGS. obtain. Alternatively, the sheath actuator may be integrated with the electrosurgical instrument as described above with reference to FIG. Also, although not shown in FIG. 35, as in the previous embodiment of the user interface 1101 of FIGS. 11-24, the leads from the switchable current source are received by the user interface 3501 and the primary and A sheath including a secondary electrode (not shown in FIG. 35) extends from the connector 3520.

  The user interface 3501 includes several user controls whose operations and effects are described in more detail in the following figures. The primary release device 3530 coupled with the housing 3510 at the first end 3541 of the housing 3510 is configured to unlock movement of the primary electrode (not shown in FIG. 35). The primary release device 3530 includes a release lever 3532 and a release spring 3533 that bias the release lever 3532 in the locked position. The primary release device 3530 engages a slidable shaft 3536 that is slidably received within the front opening 3538 of the primary release device 3530. The slidable shaft 3536 is fixedly coupled to the connector 3520. The slidable shaft 3536 is configured to move back and forth along an axis 3521. The slidable shaft 3536 is fixably coupled to a depth setter rod 3534 having the properties of a geared rack. As described further below, the depth setter rod 3534 is engaged by the actuator interlock 3540 to selectively fix the position of the slidable shaft 3536 and consequently the position of the primary electrode .

  The slidable shaft 3536 includes a depth indicator 3539 that can be read at the front opening 3538 to determine the position of the primary electrode (not shown). Referring to FIG. 11, depth display portion 3539 is read at front opening 3538 in the same manner as the display numerical value of display 1192 in depth gauge 1190 for determining the position of the primary electrode (not shown in FIG. It will be understood that As discussed further below, the primary electrode is fixably coupled to the housing 3510 such that the sliding of the housing 3510 relative to the slidable shaft 3536 controls the position of the primary electrode. In other words, in contrast to the previous embodiment (including a separate primary actuator 1132) of the user interface of FIG. 11, the housing of the user interface 3501 itself acts as the primary actuator for the primary electrode. Housing 3510 moves forward and backward along axis 3521 to extend and retract the primary electrode, respectively, as described further below.

  The secondary actuator 3552 is fixedly coupled to the secondary electrode slider (not shown in FIG. 35), as described with reference to FIG. Sliding of the secondary actuator 3552 within the secondary channel 3554 allows movement of the secondary electrode (not shown in FIG. 35). The secondary actuator 3552 is selectively selective to the housing 3510 by the interlock lever 3540 fixed to the secondary electrode slider 3551 (and thus to the primary electrode whose movement is controlled by the movement of the housing 3510). Locked and unlocked. The interlock lever 3540 moves in the guide slot 3542 along the axis 3521 and along a curve 3523 around the axis 3521. The position of the interlock lever 3540 relative to the guide slot 3542 controls the locking and unlocking of the secondary actuator 3550 and thus the secondary electrode, as described further below. In the initial configuration shown in FIG. 35, the lever end 3547 is located at a first position 3571 within the guide slot 3542 and the first position 3571 is at the second end 3555 of the secondary channel 3554. The secondary actuator 3552 is fixed. In the exemplary embodiment, guide indicator 3543 may be included on housing 3510 near guide slot 3542 to guide the user in moving interlock lever 3540 that controls the operation of secondary actuator 3550. As described further below, in other configurations, the depth setter rod 3534 may be engaged by the interlock lever 3540 to selectively lock the position of the primary electrode (not shown in FIG. 35).

  Referring to FIG. 36, the exploded view of the user interface 3501 of FIG. 35 further details the configuration and operation of the user interface 3501. As already described with reference to FIG. 35, the user interface 3501 includes a coupling 3520 fixedly coupled to the end of the slidable shaft 3536. A slidable shaft 3536 fixedly coupled to the depth setter rod 3534 is slidably received within the front opening 3538 of the primary release device 3530. The release lever 3532 selectively releases the slidable shaft 3536 to move relative to the front opening 3538 and is in the locked position by a spring 3637 coupled between the primary release device 3530 and the release lever 3532 It is energized. Primary release device 3530 is fixedly coupled to housing 3510. Beyond the primary release device 3530, the slidable shaft 3536 is slidably received in the opening 3655 at the secondary electrode slider 3551.

  The secondary electrode slider 3551 is fixedly coupled to the secondary actuator 3552, and the secondary actuator 3552 slidably moves within the secondary actuator channel 3554. Similarly, on the lower side of the housing 3510, the secondary grip 3653 is coupled to the lower side of the secondary electrode slider 3551 and extends through an additional channel 3655 of the housing 3510. As described above with reference to the previous embodiment of the user interface, the secondary actuator 3552 and the secondary actuator 3552 can be used to penetrate the tissue desired for the specific application (not shown in FIG. 36). Providing both of the following grips 3653 may allow the user to apply force as needed. When the secondary electrode slider 3551 is slidably received within the housing 3510, an electrode (not shown in FIG. 36) may extend through the front opening 3641 of the housing 3510.

  In the exploded view of FIG. 36, additional aspects of depth setter rod 3534 and interlock lever 3540 are shown to further explain the configuration of user interface 3501. The interlock lever 3640 is fixed to the secondary electrode slider 3551. Interlock lever 3540 is configured to engage depth setting rod 3534. Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the depth setter rod 3534 includes a lower geared surface 3633 and an upper geared surface 3635. Similarly, interlock lever 3540 includes lower geared lock 3643 and upper geared lock 3645. When the user manipulates the lever end 3547, the interlock lever 3540 is rotated to cause the lower geared lock 3643 to engage the lower geared surface 3633 of the depth setter rod 3534 and also with the upper geared The lock 3645 can be engaged with the upper geared surface 3635 of the depth setter rod 3534. In the exemplary embodiment, the lower geared lock 3643 and the upper geared lock 3645 are in rotational engagement with the lower geared surface 3633 and the upper geared surface 3635 as described further below. It is a configured flexible member. The lower geared lock 3643 and the upper geared lock 3645 bend when rotating over the lower geared surface 3633 and the upper geared surface 3635 of the depth setter rod 3534 and the lower gear of the depth setter rod 3534 The pressure is applied to the contact surface 3633 and the upper geared surface 3635. The pressure applied in this manner causes interlock lever 3540 to rotate and lower geared lock 3643 and upper geared lock 3645 to lower geared surface 3633 and upper geared surface 3635 of depth setter rod 3534. To prevent the interlock lever 3540 from moving relative to the depth setter rod 3534. When the lower geared lock 3643 and the upper geared lock 3645 of the interlock lever 3540 engage the lower geared surface 3633 and the upper geared surface 3635 of the depth setting rod 3534 respectively, the slidable sleeve 3536 is , Fixed with respect to the depth setter rod 3534 and thus move with the interlock lever 3540. Thus, the movement of the slidable sleeve 3536 is limited to the movement permitted by the guide slot 3542 engaging the interlock lever 3540 as described further below.

  With reference to FIGS. 37A and 37B, the user interface 3501 is shown in the inset in a first configuration prior to the extension of the primary electrode 207 past the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 proximate to the reference point 201. It is indicated by. As mentioned above, although the user interface 3501 does not include a sheath actuator for positioning the sheath 103, a sheath actuator may be added to the user interface, for example at the connector 3520 or an electrosurgical instrument (FIG. 37A) (Not shown).

  In various configurations of the user interface 3501, the slidable shaft 3536 extends completely out of the primary release device 3530 in response to the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 resting within the distal end 105 of the sheath 103. Be The secondary actuator 3552 is a secondary electrode that rests within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 prior to deployment of the secondary electrode 211 as described above with reference to the previous embodiments of the user interface 3501. Positioned at the rear end 3555 of the secondary channel 3554 in the housing 3510 according to the distal end 213 of the 211. The interlock lever 3540 is also positioned at the first end 3571 of the guide slot 3542 with the lever end 3547 so as to fix the secondary actuator 3552 in place at the second end 3555 of the secondary channel 3554 In the initial position.

  Deployment of primary electrode 207 and secondary electrode 211 is initiated by the user engaging primary release device 3530. In the exemplary embodiment, the primary release device 3530 engages by pressing the distal end 3729 of the release lever 3532 to deform the release spring 3637 to allow movement of the slidable shaft 3536 Do. With the primary release device 3530 so engaged, the housing 3510 moves in the direction 3708 along the slidable shaft 3536 to extend the primary electrode 207. Whether the desired position has been reached can be determined by reading the depth indicator 3539 on the slidable shaft 3536 at the front opening 3538 in the primary release device 3530. When the housing 3510 is moved along the slidable shaft 3536 to move the primary electrode 3507 to the desired position, the distal end 3535 of the release lever 3532 is released thereby deforming the release spring 3637 It is now possible to return to its non-existent state, locking the slidable shaft 3536 in place relative to the primary release device 3530. The primary release device 3530 moves relative to the primary release device 3530 and the shaft 3536 to which the rest of the user interface 3501 can slide before the distal end 3729 of the release lever 3532 is pressed into engagement with the primary release device 3530 It is configured to apply mechanical pressure to the slidable shaft 3536 so that it can not do so. Similarly, as described further herein, when the distal end 3729 of the release lever 3532 is released to disengage the primary release device 3530, the rest of the primary release device 3530 and the user interface 3501 slide It can not move relative to the possible shaft 3536 and fixes the position of the primary electrode 207.

  Referring to FIGS. 38A and 38B, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is extended to a desired position close to the reference point 201 in the manner described with reference to FIGS. 37A and 37B. Movement of the housing 3510 relative to the slidable shaft 3536 shown in FIG. 38A causes the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 to be moved closer to the reference point 201 to the desired position. Having reached the desired position can be verified by reading the depth indicator 3639 on the slidable shaft 3536 at the front opening 3538 in the primary release device 3530. Also, because the interlock lever 3540 secures the secondary actuator 3552 at the second end 3555 of the secondary channel 3554, movement of the housing 3510 also causes the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 to become the primary electrode. While positioned inside the distal end 209 of 207, the secondary electrode 211 is moved to the secondary actuator 3552 with the movement of the primary electrode 207.

  Referring to FIG. 39, interlock level 3540 engages depth setter rod 3534 to lock the position of the secondary actuator (not shown in FIG. 39). As mentioned above, the primary release device 3530 controls the passage of the slidable shaft (not shown in FIG. 39) through the front opening 3538 to control the primary electrode (also not shown in FIG. 39). Control positioning. In addition to the front opening 3538, the rod opening 3928 separately and slidably receives the depth setter rod 3534 as the slidable shaft moves through the primary release device 3530.

  The depth setter rod 3534 is, as described above, the lower geared surface 3633 and the upper geared surface selectively engaged by the lower geared lock 3643 and the upper geared lock 3645 of the interlock lever 3540 respectively. Including 3635. Lever end 3547 allows the user to rotate interlock lever 3540 to engage geared locks 3643 and 3645 with geared surfaces 3633 and 3635, respectively.

  Referring to FIG. 40, the interlock lever 3740 has a lower geared lock and an upper geared lock (both not shown in FIG. 40) on the lower geared surface 3633 and the upper geared surface of the depth setting rod 3534. The lower geared lock and the upper geared lock (both on the back of the slidable shaft 3536 and thus not shown in FIG. 40) slide through the rod opening 3928 without engaging 3635 It can be positioned to move. In this configuration, movement of the primary and secondary electrodes (both not shown in FIG. 40) may be both primary release device and housing (as shown in FIG. 40) as described above with reference to FIGS. 37 and 38. It is controlled by the release of (not shown). The position of the lever end 3547 is such that the lower geared lock and the upper geared lock do not fix the secondary electrode slider (also not shown in FIG. 40) to the depth setter rod 3534, a guide slot described further below In FIG. 40, the position of the lever end in the first, second or third position in FIG. The user engages lever end 4047 to lower interlock lever 3540 towards lower geared surface 3633 and upper geared surface 3635 of depth setter rod 3534 as described further below. The upper geared locks can each be rotated in a direction to lead.

  Referring to FIG. 41, the interlock lever 3540 is the lower geared lock 3643 and the upper geared lock 3645 of the interlock lever 3540 are the lower geared surface 3633 of the depth setter rod 3534 in front of the rod opening 3928. And the user operation of the lever end 3547 to initiate engagement with the upper geared surface 3635. As mentioned above, in the exemplary embodiment, the lower geared lock 3643 and the upper geared lock 3645 of the interlock lever 3540 can be slightly deformed to engage the depth setter rod 3534. It is flexible. Thus, the position of the lever end 3547 is, as will be described further below, in the lower geared lock and the upper geared lock, the secondary electrode slider (also not shown in FIG. 40) to the depth setter rod 3534 It is approximately coincident with the position of the lever end 3547 moving from the third position in the guide slot which will not be fixed yet, which will be described later, to the fourth position in the guide slot (not shown in FIG. 40). Do.

  With reference to FIG. 42, the interlock lever 43540 is provided with the lower geared lock 3643 and the upper geared lock 3645 of the interlock lever 3540 at the lower geared surface 3633 of the depth setting rod 3534 in front of the rod opening 3928 And to a locked position respectively engaging the upper geared surface 3635 by user manipulation of the lever end 3547. In the locked position, the lower geared lock 3643 and the upper geared lock 3645 secure the interlock lever 3540 to the depth setter rod 3534, a fourth or later in a guide slot (not shown in FIG. 42) described further below. It coincides with the lever end 3547 which is in the fifth position. In this position, the secondary actuator 3540 maintains the position of the secondary actuator (not shown in FIG. 42) even though the housing and thus the primary electrode (both not shown in FIG. 42) has moved. The function of the interlock lever 3540 in the positioning of the primary and secondary electrodes is further described below.

  In Figures 43A-47C, side and top views of a second embodiment of the user interface are shown with an inset showing the positions of the electrodes corresponding to the configuration of the user interface. In FIGS. 43A-47C, the lever end 3547 of the interlock lever 3540 provides visual and tactile sensing of the stage at which the user interface 3501 operates, such as, for example, when the secondary electrode 211 is extended or the primary electrode 207 is retracted. It should be understood to provide an indicator that can be

  Referring to FIGS. 43A-43C, the user interface 3501 is shown with the primary electrode 207 extended before any steps are taken to extend the secondary electrode 211. The primary release device 3530 is in a locked position that secures the housing 3510 relative to the slidable shaft 3536. As a result, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is fixed in place close to the reference point 201. The interlock lever 3540 is in the initial locking position shown by the lever end 3547 of the interlock lever 3540 being arranged in the first position 3571 of the guide slot 3542. In this position, the lower geared lock and the upper geared lock (not shown in FIGS. 43A and 43B) of the interlock lever 3540 do not engage the depth setter rod 3534. However, by the lever end 3547 at the first position 3571, the interlock lever 3540 is restrained from moving along the axis 3521 (FIG. 35) and thus the secondary actuator 3552 and the secondary electrode slider 3551 are Hold in place in next channel 3554 (prevent). Thus, since the primary electrode 207 is locked in place and the secondary electrode slider 3551 is locked in place, the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 is also locked in place relative to the reference point 201. .

  Referring to FIGS. 44A-44C, the user interface 3501 is shown with the primary electrode 207 extended and the actuator interlock 3540 manipulated to unlock movement of the secondary electrode 211. The primary release device 3530 remains in the locked position securing the housing 2510 relative to the slidable shaft 3536. As a result, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 remains fixed in place close to the reference point 302. The interlock lever 3540 is moved to a second position shown by the lever end 3547 of the interlock lever 3740 moving to the second position 4473 of the guide slot 3542. In this position, the lower geared lock and the upper geared lock (not shown in FIGS. 44A and 44B) of the interlock lever 3540 are deep, as in the positions described with reference to FIGS. 44A-44C. The setter rod 3534 has not yet engaged. However, the lever end 3547 at the second position 4473 no longer inhibits the interlock lever 3540 from moving along the axis 3521 (FIG. 35) in the secondary channel 3554. The lever end 3547 can thus engage in a limited movement within the guide slot 3542. Thus, the secondary actuator 3552 and the secondary slider 3551 may also engage in a limited movement within the secondary channel 3554 to move the secondary electrode 211 towards the reference point 201. With the primary electrode 207 thus fixed in position, the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 can move towards the reference point 201 independently of the primary electrode 207.

  Referring to FIGS. 45A-45C, the primary release device 3530 remains in the locked position and the secondary electrode 211 is extended. As a result, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 remains fixed in place close to the reference point 201. The interlock lever 3540 is moved to a third position shown by the lever end 3547 of the interlock lever 3540 being arranged in the third position 4575 of the guide slot 3542. In this position, the lower geared lock and the upper geared lock (not shown in FIGS. 45A and 45B) of the interlock lever 3540, as in the positions described with reference to FIGS. The setter rod 3534 has not yet engaged. When the user moves the secondary actuator 3552 to move the secondary electrode slider 3551 in the secondary channel 3554, the lever end 3547 moves to a third position 4575 in the guide slot 3542. The movement of the secondary actuator 3552 moves the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 beyond the reference point 201 to the desired position while the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is fixed in place. An insulator 515 on the secondary electrode 211 electrically isolates the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 from the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207, as described above.

  46A-C, the primary release device 3530 remains in the locked position to secure the housing 3510 relative to the slidable shaft 3536 and the actuator interlock 3540 locks the movement of the secondary electrode 211. It has been manipulated to As a result, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 remains fixed in place close to the reference point 201. The interlock lever 3540 is moved to the fourth position 4677 by the user moving the lever end 3547 of the interlock lever 3540 to the fourth position 4677 of the guide slot 3542. In this position, the lower geared lock 3643 and the upper geared lock 3645 of the interlock lever 3540 are the lower geared surface 3633 of the depth setter rod 3534 and the upper gear, as described with reference to FIG. Engage with the surface 3635 respectively. Thus, by means of the lever end 3547 in the fourth position 4677 of the guide slot 3542 the interlock lever 3540 and thus the secondary electrode slider 3551 and the secondary actuator 3552 are locked in place relative to the depth setter rod 3534 Ru. Thus, both the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 are locked in place relative to the reference point 201.

  Referring to FIGS. 47A-47C, the primary unlocking device 3530 is engaged to unlock the position of the housing 3510 relative to the slidable shaft 3536, and the housing 3510 partially divides the distal end 309 of the primary electrode 207. Has moved in direction 4781 to be stored. As a result, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is partially withdrawn from the reference point 201 towards the distal end 105 of the sheath 103. The interlock lever 3540 is moved to the fifth position by the movement of the guide slot 3542 of the housing 3510 to the fifth position 4779 together with the lever end 3547 of the interlock lever 3540. In this position, the lower geared lock 3643 and the upper geared lock 3645 of the interlock lever 3540 are the lower geared surface 3633 of the depth setter rod 3534 and the upper gear, as described with reference to FIG. Continue to engage the bearing surface 3635 respectively. Thus, by means of the lever end 3547 in the fourth position 4779 of the guide slot 3542 the interlock lever 3540 and thus the secondary electrode slider 3551 and the secondary actuator 3552 are locked in place relative to the depth setter rod 3534 It remains as it is. Movement of the housing 3510 moves the secondary electrode slider 3551 and the secondary actuator 3552 forward in the secondary channel 3554 to move the secondary electrode slider 3551 into the depth setter rod 3534 while the housing 3510 moves in the direction 4781 Allows you to remain locked in place against. Thus, when the secondary electrode 211 is extended and fixed in place, the primary electrode 207 is moved to position the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 relative to the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 to Application can be facilitated to provide the desired treatment. Thus, with these user interface embodiments, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 are prepared for the application of current to treat tissue at or near the reference point 201. It becomes possible to position at a desired position close to the reference point 201.

  Referring to FIG. 48, another embodiment of user interface 4801 is shown for positioning of electrodes. The user interface 4801 includes components that move parallel along the axis 4821 or rotate along a curve 4823 around the axis 4821 as described further below. As described further below, the user interface 4801 extends the actuator through the outer housing 4810 at the first end 4841 of the outer housing 4810 by sliding the outer housing 4810 along the axis 4821. It is generally controlled by sliding and by rotating the outer housing about axis 4821.

  The user interface 4801 includes a connector 4820 for engaging a port on an electrosurgical instrument such as a bronchoscope as described with reference to FIGS. 1, 7 and 8. The user interface 4801 also includes a sheath actuator 4804 for positioning a sheath (not shown in FIG. 48) as described above with reference to FIGS. 7-11. The sheath actuator 4804 includes a sheath lock 4806 that engages the slidable sleeve 4812 and the slidable sleeve 4812 and secures the slidable sleeve 4812 in place, as described further below. A sheath actuator is inserted between the bronchoscope or user interface 4801 and the bronchoscope (not shown in FIG. 48), as described with reference to FIG. 35 and with respect to another embodiment of the user interface 3501. It will be appreciated that it may be part of a separate device.

  The user interface 4801 includes an outer housing 4810 configured to allow manipulation of the electrodes. The outer sheath 4810 includes a first guide slot 4831 configured to receive and guide the movement of the primary actuator 4832 extending up through the first guide slot 4831. The outer housing 4810 also includes a second guide slot 4851 configured to receive a secondary actuator (not shown in FIG. 48). As described further below, rotation of the outer housing 4810 along the curve 4823 about the axis 4821 exposes and introduces the secondary actuator into the second guide slot 4851. When the secondary actuator is received through the second guide slot 4851, the secondary actuator may be fixed in place with the slidable actuator lock 4859, the operation of which will be described further below. Also, although not shown in FIG. 48, in the case of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 and 11, leads from switchable current sources are received at user interface 4801 and include primary and secondary electrodes. A sheath extends out of the user interface 4801 via a connector 4820.

  Referring to FIG. 49, the outer housing 4810 includes a first guide slot 4831 that engages the primary actuator 4832. Primary actuator 4832 extends from primary electrode slider 4914 as described further below. Primary actuator 4832 extends upwardly through guide slot 4831 in outer housing 4810. By sliding the primary actuator 4832 through the first guide slot 4831, the user can extend, lock and partially retract the primary electrode (not shown in FIG. 49). The outer housing 4810 includes a second guide slot 4851 configured to receive a secondary actuator 4952. The secondary actuator 4952 includes an intermediate guide slot 4933 in the primary electrode slider 4914 as described further below. It extends from the secondary electrode slider 4916 through. A ramp 4957 adjacent to the second end 4958 of the second guide slot 4851 and below the outer housing 4810 is desired to house a secondary electrode as described further below Engage and lower the secondary actuator 4852 when.

  The second guide slot 4851 in the outer housing 4810 allows rotation of the outer housing 4810 along the curve 4823 around the axis 4821 (FIG. 48) into the second guide slot 4851, as described further below. When the secondary actuator 4952 is exposed and introduced, it is configured to receive the secondary actuator 4952. When the secondary actuator is received through the second guide slot 4851, the secondary actuator may be fixed in place with the slidable actuator lock 4859, the operation of which will be described further below.

  The primary electrode slider 4914 is longitudinally fixable to the primary electrode (not shown in FIG. 49) such that longitudinal movement of the primary electrode slider 4914 extends and stores the primary electrode without twisting the primary electrode. . The primary electrode slider 4914 is slidably and rotatably received within the outer housing 4810. A primary actuator 4832 extends outwardly from the primary electrode slider 4914 so as to extend upwardly through the outer housing 4810. The primary electrode slider 4914 also includes an intermediate guide slot 4933 configured to receive a secondary actuator 4952 extending from the secondary electrode slider 4916.

  The secondary electrode slider 4916 is longitudinal to the secondary electrode (not shown in FIG. 49) such that movement of the secondary electrode slider 4916 in the longitudinal direction extends and stores the secondary electrode without twisting the secondary electrode. It can be fixed to The secondary electrode slider 4916 is slidably received within the primary electrode slider 4914. The secondary actuator 4952 extends outwardly from the secondary electrode slider 4916 and is receivable through an intermediate guide slot 4933 in the primary electrode slider 4914. In the exemplary embodiment, the secondary actuator 4952 can be spring loaded or similarly extended so that the second guide slot 4851 overlaps the middle guide slot 4933 in the primary electrode slider 4914 As the 4810 rotates, the secondary actuator 4952 extends upwardly through the second guide slot 4851. In another exemplary embodiment, when the outer housing 4810 is rotated to move the second guide slot 4851 so that it no longer overlaps the middle guide slot 4933 in the primary electrode slider 4914, the ramp 4959 forms a secondary The actuator 4952 is engaged and compressed under the outer housing 4810.

  Sheath actuator 4804 includes a slidable sleeve 4812 fixedly coupled to the sheath (not shown) and slidably received within coupling 4820 and lockable to sheath lock 4806. The operation of the sheath actuator 4804 is further described with reference to FIGS. 50 and 51. In the exemplary embodiment, the slidable sleeve 4812 includes an outer housing 4810 such that movement of the electrode (not shown in FIG. 49) made by use of the user interface 4810 moves the electrode relative to the sheath. Can be fixedly coupled thereto.

  Referring to FIGS. 50A and 50B, and also for use with user interface 4801, sheath actuator 4804 controls the position of sheath 103. In particular, the position of the sheath 103 is desired by sliding the slidable sleeve 4812 within the connector 4820 and securing the slidable sleeve 4812 within the sheath lock 4806 Controlled by locking in position. Sheath actuator 4804 may operate similar to sheath lock 706 of FIG. 9 as described above. A slidable sleeve 4812 is fixedly attached to the outer housing 4810 and is slidably received within the coupling 4820. When the slidable sleeve 4812 is positioned to position the sheath 103 containing the electrodes 207 and 211 at the desired position, the sheath lock 4806 is locked to lock the slidable sleeve 4812 in place. A sheath lock 4806 is a spring loaded lock for securing the slidable sleeve 4812 in place to secure the position of the sheath 103, a thumb screw, or another similar as described above with reference to FIGS. It may be a mechanism of

  As mentioned above and as shown in the inset, in the exemplary embodiment, the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 initially remains stationary only within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. The secondary electrode 211 is received in the primary electrode. The distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 then rests only within the distal end 105 of the sheath 103. Before positioning the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 close to the reference point 201 using the sheath actuator 4804, the distal end of the sheath 103 is initially away from the reference point 201 or immediately adjacent to the reference point 201. It may stand still at the same position.

  Referring to FIGS. 51A and 51B, and also for use with user interface 4801, using sheath actuator 4804 to position distal end 105 of sheath 103 closer to the reference point 201 shown in the inset. Move to Relative movement of the outer housing 4810 towards the connector 4820 by a distance 5019 causes the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 to move a corresponding distance to move the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 closer to the reference point 201. . Next, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 also approach the reference point 201. Relative movement of the outer housing 4810 towards the connector 4820 is achieved by the slidable sleeve 4812 being at least partially received within the connector 5120 and then secured to the sheath lock 4806 as described above. Ru.

  52A-57C illustrate how user interface 4801 moves electrodes 207 and 211 based on operation of user interface 4801. FIG. Referring to FIG. 52A with respect to the user interface 4801, the primary actuator 4832 extends from the primary slider 4914 through the first guide slot 4831 of the outer housing 4810 and is located at the first position 5233 within the first guide slot 4831. (As shown in the cross-sectional view and the top-down view taken along line A-A). Similarly, as shown in the inset, in the initial position, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is moved away from the sheath 103 with the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 positioned close to the reference point 201. It remains positioned within the temporus 105. The distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 remains positioned within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207.

  It should be noted that the secondary actuator 4952 and the intermediate guide slot 4933 have not yet been exposed in the second guide slot 4851 in the outer housing 4810 and are thus represented by the dashed line in the top down view . As will be appreciated, the operation of the outer housing 4810 and the primary actuator 4832 may be performed by the secondary actuator 4952 and the second guide slot 4851 in the outer housing 4810 where the secondary actuator 4952 may be subsequently engaged by the user. Bring the middle guide slot 4934.

  It should also be noted that the primary actuator 4832 is fixedly coupled to the primary electrode slider 4914 and the secondary actuator 4952 is fixedly coupled to the secondary electrode slider 4916. Thus, linear or rotational movement of the primary actuator 4832 causes corresponding movement of the primary electrode slider 4914 to move the primary electrode 5207. Similarly, linear or rotational movement of the secondary actuator 4852 causes a corresponding movement of the secondary electrode slider 4916 to move the secondary electrode 211. Thus, the movement of the primary actuator 4832 may be considered to result in the movement of the primary electrode 207 without the associated movement of the respective electrode slider being explicitly described, the movement of the secondary actuator 4952 It should be understood that movement of the secondary electrode 211 may be considered to occur.

  53A-53C, the primary actuator 4832 (extending through the first guide slot 4831 of the outer housing 4810 of the user interface 4801) is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B and a top-down view As shown in FIG. 5, the user (not shown) has moved to the second position 5335 in the first guide slot 4831. The user may, for example, push the primary actuator 4832 forward to slide the primary actuator 4832 to the second position 5335 through the first guide slot 4831. Similarly, as shown in the inset, in the second position, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 extends beyond the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 into the target tissue 202 towards the reference point 201 Do. The distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 remains positioned within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207.

  The secondary actuator 4952 (extending through the intermediate guide slot 4934 of the primary electrode slider 4914 and the intermediate guide slot 4934 of the primary electrode slider 4914) is still exposed in the second guide slot 4851 in the outer housing 4810. And therefore continue to be represented by the dashed line in the top-down view. However, it is understood that movement of the primary actuator 4832 to the second position 5335 in the first guide slot 4831 causes the middle guide slot 4934 to be parallel to the second guide slot 4951 in the outer housing 4810 I want to be As described with reference to FIGS. 54A-54C, relative rotation of the primary actuator 4832 across the first guide slot 4831 causes the second position in the outer housing 4810 where the secondary actuator 4952 may continue to be engaged by the user. The secondary actuator 4952 and the intermediate guide slot 4934 are provided under the guide slot 4951 of the second stage.

  54A-54C, the primary actuator 4832 (extending through the first guide slot 4831 of the outer housing 4810 of the user interface 4801) is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C and a top-down view As shown in FIG. 5, the user (not shown) has moved to the third position 5437 within the first guide slot 4831. For example, while sliding the primary actuator 4832 to the third position 5437 in the first guide slot 4831 while the primary electrode slider 4914 and the secondary electrode slider 4916 are fixed to rotate, for example, the user The actuator 4832 can be rotated laterally. As shown in the inset, the relative position of the electrodes 207 and 211 has not changed. The distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 remains extended beyond the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 near the reference point 201, as shown in FIG. 53C. Similarly, the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 remains positioned within the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207.

  However, movement of the primary actuator 4832 to the third position 5437 causes the secondary actuator 4952 to extend through the middle guide slot 4934 of the primary electrode slider 4914, this time in the second inside the outer housing 5810 of the user interface 4801. Extend through the guide slot 4851 of the An intermediate guide slot 4934 in the primary electrode slider 4914 is superimposed by a second guide slot 4851 in the outer housing 4810. In this position, the secondary actuator 4952 rests at a first position 5453 in the second guide slot 4851. As described with reference to FIGS. 55A-55C, the secondary actuator 4952 may now be engaged by the user to extend the secondary electrode 211.

  Referring to FIGS. 55A-55C, the secondary actuator 4952 extends through the first guide slot 4851 in the outer housing 4810 of the user interface 4801, and the first position 5453 in the second guide slot 4851. To the second position 5555. In the second position 5555, the secondary actuator 4952 is now located adjacent to the slidable actuator lock 4859, the operation of which is further described with reference to FIG. The primary actuator 4832 extends through the first guide slot 4831 of the outer housing 4810 and remains in the third position 5437 within the first guide slot 4831. A user (not shown) may, for example, push secondary actuator 4952 to move secondary actuator 4952 from first position 5453 to second position 5555 in second guide slot 4851.

  As shown in the inset, movement of the secondary actuator 4952 causes the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 to extend beyond the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 beyond the reference point 201. An electrical insulator 515 electrically isolates everything from the primary electrode 207 except for the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211. In contrast, while the movement of the primary actuator 4832 towards the reference point 201 is limited by the first guide slot 4831, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 remains in the same position as shown in FIG. 54C.

  Referring to FIGS. 56A-56C, the secondary actuator 4952 extends through the intermediate guide slot 4934 in the primary electrode slider 4914 and is locked in place by the slidable actuator lock 4859. As described above with reference to other embodiments of the user interface, the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 extends from the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 to a desired position opposite to the reference point 201. Once in place, it may be desirable to maintain the secondary electrode 211 in place while the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is partially withdrawn. Because the secondary electrode 211 extends through the primary electrode 209, withdrawal of the primary electrode 209 can exert a force on the secondary electrode 211, potentially causing the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 to retract. There is. However, the slidable actuator lock 4859 helps to prevent the secondary actuator 4952 from moving within the second guide slot 4851, thereby holding the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 in place. It can help.

  The slidable actuator lock 4859 slides from the base portion 5669 across the second guide slot 4851 and engages the secondary actuator 4952 such that the secondary actuator 4952 is in the second position within the second guide slot 4851 Prevent moving from 5555. As a result, when the primary actuator 4832 is engaged to store the primary electrode 207, the secondary actuator 4952 and thus the secondary electrode 211 remain in place, as described with reference to FIGS. 57A-57C. .

  57A-57C, with the secondary actuator 4952 secured in the second position 5555 in the second guide slot 4851 by the slidable actuator lock 4859, the primary (Not shown) to partially retract the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. Specifically, the primary actuator 4832 (extending from the primary slider 4914 through the first guide slot 4831 of the outer housing 4810 of the user interface 4801) was taken along the top-down view and line E-E. As shown in the cross-sectional view, it is moved by the user (not shown) to a fourth position 5739 in the first guide slot 4831. The user may, for example, push the primary actuator 4832 to slide the primary actuator 4832 through the first guide slot 4831 to the fourth position 5739. As shown in the inset, the secondary actuator 4952 is held in place by the slidable actuator lock 4859 at the second position 5555 in the second guide slot 4851 so that the distance of the secondary electrode 211 The position of the proximal end 213 remains unchanged with respect to the reference point 201. However, as shown in FIG. 57C, the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is partially retracted closer to the distal end 105 of the sheath 103. Thus, when the secondary electrode 211 is extended and fixed in place, the primary electrode 207 is moved to position the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 relative to the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 to Application can be facilitated to provide the desired treatment.

  The following relates to the removal of the device. Since the primary actuator 4832 is located at the fourth position 5739 in the first guide slot 4831, the primary actuator 4832 moves to the third position 5437 in the first guide slot 4831 and can slide. The primary electrode 207 can not be stored until the lock 4859 unlocks the secondary actuator 4952 and the secondary actuator 4952 is stored in the second guide slot 4851 at the first position 5453. Thus, accidental retraction of the primary electrode 207 can not occur while the secondary electrode 211 is in the extended position.

  Referring to FIG. 58, in another embodiment, a user interface 5801 is provided for positioning of the electrode transported by the sheath to a desired position at or near the reference point (none shown in FIG. 58) ). The user interface 5801 includes a sheath actuator 5804, a primary housing 5830, a secondary housing 5850, and a lock rod 5870. As described in detail below, movement of the electrode may be performed using sheath actuator 5804 to position the sheath and to position lock rod 5870, along curve 5823 around axis 5821 of user interface 5801. This is accomplished by rotating the secondary housing 5850 and sliding the primary housing 5850 along the axis 5821. The primary housing 5830 is mechanically fixed to the primary electrode (not shown in FIG. 58) such that sliding of the primary housing 5830 slides the primary electrode. Similarly, the secondary housing 5850 is mechanically fixed to the secondary electrode (not shown in FIG. 58) such that sliding of the secondary housing 5850 slides the secondary electrode. In contrast to the previous embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 11-57, the user interface 5801 does not include an actuator or lever used to manipulate the position of the electrodes. Rather, manipulation of the electrodes is performed by sliding and rotating the secondary housing 5850 and sliding the primary housing 5830, as described further below.

  Referring to FIG. 59, in certain embodiments, the connector 5820 engages a port on an electrosurgical instrument such as a bronchoscope as described with reference to FIGS. 1, 7 and 8. Is configured. The connector 5820 slidably receives the primary housing 5830 and the lock bar 5870. Once the sheath (not shown in FIG. 59) is placed at the desired position relative to the reference point (also not shown in FIG. 59), the sheath lock 5806 is used to secure the sheath in place and also reference The position of the lock bar 5870 can be fixed relative to the point. Primary housing 5830 and lock bar 5870 are also slidably and rotatably received within secondary housing 5850. The sliding and rotation of the primary housing 5830 and the lock bar 5870 relative to the secondary housing 5850, as will be described in detail below, involves fixing the relative movement and position of the primary housing 5830 and the secondary housing 5850, and thus the primary and second. The relative movement of the next electrode and the fixing of the position are respectively controlled.

  Referring to FIGS. 60A and 60B, the operation of the sheath actuator 5804 is described to illustrate the positioning of the sheath 105 and the lock bar 5870. As described further below, in the initial configuration, sliding of the secondary housing 5850 also slides the primary housing 5830. Thus, sliding of the secondary housing 5850 slides the primary housing 5830 relative to the connector 5820.

  61A and 61B, movement of the secondary housing 5850 by the distance 6019 results in the primary housing 5830 advancing the distance 6019 into the connector 5820. Similarly, the sheath 103 is advanced into the body to move the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 towards the reference point 202. In this configuration, movement of the secondary housing 5850 also causes the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 (resting within the distal end 105 of the sheath 103) and the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 (primary electrode 207). (Which is stationary within the distal end 209 of the) is coincidentally advanced towards the reference point. Once the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 reaches the desired position relative to the reference point 202, the sheath lock 5806 can be used to lock the sheath 103 in place. In certain embodiments, the sheath lock 5806 can also lock the position of the lock rod 5870, thereby providing a reference position for positioning of the primary housing 5830 and the secondary housing 5850, as described further below. Fix it.

  62-64C illustrate components of user interface 5801. FIG. Referring to FIG. 62, the lock rod 5870 includes a positioning portion 6271 and a locking portion 6273. Positioning portion 6271 may, for example, be received and fixed within coupling 5820 which fixes the position of the locking rod as described above. Locking portion 6273 supports a plurality of outwardly extending teeth 6275, and outwardly extending teeth 6275 are one or more inwardly directed supported by primary housing 5830 and secondary housing 5850. Are engaged to facilitate locking of the position of the housings 5830 and 5850 and to prevent sliding of the housings 5830 and 5850 along the locking rod 5870, as described further below.

  Referring to FIG. 63A, the first side of the primary housing 5830 is shown. In certain embodiments, the primary housing 5830 is generally cylindrical to be able to slide and rotate within the chamber within the secondary housing 5850 as described further with reference to FIGS. 64A-70C. Primary housing 5830 includes an outwardly directed guide slot 6333 configured to receive a guide member (not shown in FIG. 63A) extending inwardly from secondary housing 5850. The engagement of the guide member with the guide slot 6333 controls the relative movement of the primary housing 5830 and the secondary housing 5850, as described further below.

  Referring to FIG. 63B, the second side of the primary housing 5830 is shown. In certain embodiments, primary housing 5830 includes a primary lock channel 6335 configured to receive lock rod 5870. Within the primary lock channel 6335, when the lock rod 5870 is received within the primary lock channel, the one or more inward facing teeth 6337 cause the primary housing 5830 to slide relative to the lock rod 5870. To prevent, it is configured to engage a tooth 6275 extending from the lock rod 5870.

  Referring to FIG. 63C, a cross-sectional view of the primary housing 5830 shows the guide slot 6333 and the primary lock channel 6335. At a point along the primary housing 5830 the cross-sectional view of FIG. 64C is taken, the guide slot 6333 does not have a lateral side of the guide slot 6333 which blocks the sliding of the guide member at this position, as shown in FIG. , Allow sliding of the guide member (not shown) within the guide slot 6333. Primary lock channel 6335 includes a groove configured to receive lock bar 5870. It should be noted that primary housing 5830 defines an open core 6334 through which primary electrodes, secondary electrodes, sheaths, or other devices (not shown in FIG. 63C) may extend or be received. It is.

  Referring to FIG. 63D, another cross-sectional view of the primary housing 5830 shows the guide slot 6333 and the primary lock channel 6335. At the point along the primary housing 5830 the cross-sectional view of FIG. 64D is taken, referring to FIG. 63A, the guide slot 6333 can block the sliding of the guide member, although the adjacent lateral sides may block the guide slot 6333. Allow rotation of the guide member (not shown). Within the primary lock channel 6335, one or more teeth 6337 prevent the primary housing 5830 from sliding along the lock bar 5870 when the lock bar 5870 is received within the primary lock channel 6335. Extend to engage the teeth 6275 on the lock bar 5870.

  Referring to FIG. 64A, a side view of the secondary housing 5850 is shown. As mentioned above, in contrast to the embodiment of the user interface 4801 of FIGS. 48-57, the secondary housing 5850, which is the outer housing, is extended by a lever, a separate actuator, or such level and separate actuator. It does not support the existing opening. Rather, the secondary housing 5850 itself is an actuator that is engaged by the user to manipulate the position of the electrodes (not shown in FIG. 64A). In the illustrated embodiment, although the secondary housing 5850 is shown as having a cylindrical profile, the secondary housing 5850 may support the knurled grip or hold the user interface Or it may be provided with different contours that may be desirable to operate.

  Referring to FIGS. 64B and 64C, cross-sectional views of the secondary housing 5850 show an internal channel 6454 defined by an inner wall 6452 configured to slidably and rotatably receive the primary housing 5830. The secondary lock channel 6458 defined by the secondary channel wall 6456 is configured to receive the lock bar 5870 and the lock bar 5870 slides within the secondary lock channel 6458 as described below The secondary lock channel 6458 can be moved by rotation of the secondary housing 5850 to selectively reposition the lock bar 5870.

  The secondary channel 6458 is described in detail with reference to FIGS. 65A-65C, 66A-66C, 67A-67C, 68A-68C, 69A-69C, and 70A-70C. As such, it includes three lobes that control the relative movement of the housings 5830 and 5850 relative to the lock bar 5870. With the lock bar 5870 in the first lobe 6461, the primary housing 5830 and the secondary housing 5850 can slide freely relative to the lock bar 5870. With the lock bar 5870 in the second lobe 6463, the secondary channel wall 6456 pushes the lock rod 5870 causing the lock rod 5870 to engage the teeth 6337 in the primary lock channel 6335 of the primary housing 5830. , Thereby preventing the primary housing 5830 from sliding relative to the lock rod 5870. However, with the lock rod 5870 in the second lobe 6463, the secondary housing 5850 still slides freely relative to the lock bar 5870. In the third lobe 6465, one or more inward facing teeth 6459 are configured to engage outward facing teeth 6275 extending from the lock bar 5870. Thus, with the lock bar 5870 in the third lobe 6465, the secondary housing 5850 is blocked from sliding relative to the lock bar 5870. However, when the lock bar 5870 is in the third lobe 6465, the teeth 6337 in the primary lock channel 6335 of the primary housing 5830 no longer engage the lock rod 5870 and thus the primary housing 5830 is against the lock bar 5870 Can slide freely.

  Referring back to FIG. 64C, the inwardly extending guide member 6455 is configured to be received within the guide slot 6333 of the primary housing 5830 described with reference to FIGS. 63A and 63C. The engagement of guide member 6455 with guide slot 6333 controls the relative movement of primary housing 5830 and secondary housing 5850, as described further below.

  Referring to FIG. 65A, a side view of the user interface 5801 is shown in an initial configuration for extending both the primary electrode 207 and the secondary electrode 211 (FIG. 65D). 65A-70D are used to illustrate the use of movement of the user interface 5801 to control the position of the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 in the body. Specifically, the sliding and rotation of the outer secondary housing 5850 and the sliding of the inner primary housing 5830 position the electrodes 207 and 211 relative to the reference point 202. In the side view of the user interface 5801 of FIGS. 65A, 66A, 67A, 68A, 69A and 70A, the connector 5820 and the secondary housing 5850 are shown in a cutaway view (represented by dashed lines) It should be noted that the relative movement of the primary housing 5830 with respect to the connector 5820 and the secondary housing 5850 is shown. In the representation of FIGS. 65A, 66A, 67A, 68A, 69A and 70A, the locking rod 5870 will also be positioned behind the user interface, and thus, FIGS. 65A, 66A, 67A, 67A, Not shown in FIGS. 68A, 69A, and 70A. However, the engagement of the lock bar 5870 and the lock bar 5870 with the primary housing 5830 and the secondary housing 5850 is shown in cross-sectional views such as shown in the cross-sectional views of FIGS. 65B and 65C. The movement of the electrodes 207 and 211 relative to the reference point is shown in the corresponding inset, such as FIG. 65D.

  Referring again to FIG. 65A, in the initial configuration extending both the primary electrode 207 and the secondary electrode 211, the guide member 6455 is received within the first transverse guide segment 6541 of the guide slot 6333 of the secondary housing 5850. (FIG. 65D). With the guide member 6455 of the secondary housing 5850 engaged with the first transverse guide segment 6541 of the guide slot 6333 of the primary housing 5830, the housings 5830 and 5850 are along the axis 5821 (FIG. 58) of the user interface 5801. Can only move at the same time.

  Referring to FIGS. 65B and 65C, using the guide member 6455 in the first transverse guide segment 6541 of the guide slot 6333, the lock rod 5870 is received in the first lobe 6561 of the secondary lock channel 6458. . Neither the teeth 6459 in the secondary lock channel 6458 of the secondary housing 5850 nor the teeth 6337 in the primary lock channel 6335 engage the lock rod 5870 when received in the first lobe 6561 of the secondary lock channel 6458 . Thus, although both the primary housing 5830 and the secondary housing 5850 can slide freely relative to the lock rod 5870, as described above, the engagement of the guide member 6455 and the guide slot 6333 is performed by the primary housing 5830. And move the secondary housing 5850 simultaneously (ie, move the same distance simultaneously).

  66A, the side view of the user interface 5801 is when the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 are extended to the reference point 201 as shown in FIG. 66D. It is shown in the second configuration. As described with reference to FIG. 65A, engagement of the guide member 6455 with the guide slots 6333 of the secondary housing 5850 simultaneously moves the primary housing 5830 and the secondary housing 5850 by a distance 6691. As shown in FIGS. 66B and 66C, and as described above with reference to FIGS. 65B and 66C, the lock rod 5870 is in the first lobe 6461 of the secondary lock channel 6456 where the lock rod 5870 does not engage teeth 6459 in secondary lock channel 6458 of secondary housing 5850 or teeth 6337 in primary lock channel 6335 and primary housing 5830 and secondary housing 5850 are free relative to lock rod 5870 To be able to slide

  Referring to FIG. 67A, the secondary housing 5850 rotates in the direction 6793 to move the guide member 6455 to the second segment 6743 of the guide slot 6333. With the guide member 6455 in the second segment 6743 of the guide slot 6333, the secondary housing 5850 can move freely relative to the primary housing 5830. However, the guide slot 6333 blocks further rotation of the guide member 6455 in the direction 6793.

  67B and 67C, rotation of the secondary housing 5850 results in movement of the lock rod 5870 into the second lobe 6463 of the secondary lock channel 6458, where the secondary channel wall 6456. Acts on the lock rod 5870 to engage the teeth 6337 in the primary lock channel 6335 of the primary housing 5830, thus preventing the primary housing 5830 from sliding relative to the lock rod 5870 Can be seen. However, with the lock rod 5870 in the second lobe 6463, the secondary housing 5850 still slides freely relative to the lock rod 5870. Referring to FIG. 67D, rotation of the secondary housing 5850 can be viewed as causing no movement of the electrodes 207 and 211.

  Referring to FIG. 68A, secondary housing 5850 slidably moves distance 6891 independently from primary housing 5830 to move secondary electrode 211 from the distal end 209 of primary electrode 207 to the opposite side of reference point 202. Extend the distal end 213 of the The guide member 5455 now extends into the third segment 6845 of the guide slot 6333 where the guide member 6455 is limited to slide further in the direction of the distance 6891 but the two relative to the primary housing 5830 The next housing 5850 can be freely moved over the guide slot 6333 to allow rotation.

  Referring to FIGS. 68B and 68C, the lock rod 5870 can be viewed as remaining within the second lobe 6463 of the secondary lock channel 6458. Thus, the secondary channel wall 6456 continues to act on the lock rod 5870 so that the lock rod 5870 engages the teeth 6337 in the primary lock channel 6335 of the primary housing 5830 and thus the primary housing 5830 is in the lock rod 5870 Continue to prevent sliding against. The secondary housing 5850 continues to slide freely relative to the lock rod 5870 while the lock rod 5870 remains in the second lobe 6463.

  Referring to FIG. 69A, secondary housing 5850 rotates in direction 6993. The guide member 5455 now extends into the fourth segment 6947 of the guide slot 6333 where the guide member 6455 is restricted from further rotation in the direction 6993 but then the primary relative to the secondary housing 5850 Relative sliding movement of the housing 5830 is possible.

  69B and 69C, the lock rod 5870 can be viewed as moving into the third lobe 6465 of the secondary lock channel 6458. As a result, the lock rod 5870 no longer engages the teeth 6337 in the primary lock channel 6335 of the primary housing 5830, allowing the primary housing 5830 to slide relative to the lock bar 5870. However, the teeth 6459 extending from the secondary housing 5850 are now here to the locking rod 5870 while the rotation of the secondary housing 5850 causes the lock bar 5870 to be received in the third lobe 6465 of the secondary locking channel 6458. Engaging, thereby preventing sliding movement of the secondary housing 5850 relative to the locking rod 5870. Referring to FIG. 69D, it should be noted that rotation of the secondary housing 5850 does not bring about movement of the electrodes 207 and 211 again.

  Referring to FIG. 70A, the primary housing 5830 travels a distance 7091 to partially retract the primary housing 5830 within the secondary housing 5850 and the distal end of the secondary electrode 211 as shown in FIG. 70D. The distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is partially retracted away from 213. The primary housing 5830 is slidable relative to the lock rod 5870. As described above with reference to FIGS. 69B and 69C, and as shown in FIGS. 70B and 70C, rotation of the secondary housing 5850 causes the lock rod 5870 to become a secondary lock channel within the secondary housing 5850. Rotated into third lobe 6465 of 6458. As a result, the lock rod 5870 has disengaged from the teeth 6337 in the primary lock channel 6355 of the primary housing 5830. With the lock rod 5870 in the third lobe 6465 of the secondary lock channel 6458 of the secondary housing 5850, the lock rod 5870 is toothed in the third lobe 6465 of the secondary lock channel 6458 of the secondary housing 5850. 6459 engages thereby preventing the secondary housing 5850 from sliding relative to the lock bar 5870. Thus, when the secondary electrode 211 is extended and fixed in place, the primary electrode 207 is moved to position the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 relative to the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 to Application can be facilitated to provide the desired treatment.

  While the exemplary embodiments of the user interface described with reference to FIGS. 62-70D illustrate important details in the structure and operation of the user interface 5801, a secondary for positioning the electrodes 207 and 211 It will be appreciated that the relatively simple operation of only the housing 5850 is shown until the primary housing 5830 is stored in the final step. In facilitating that, FIGS. 71-76 are provided to illustrate the operation of the user interface embodiments described with reference to FIGS. 62-70D.

  Referring to FIG. 71, user interface 5801 is shown ready for deployment of electrodes 207 and 211 near reference point 202. The distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 rests inside the distal end 105 of the sheath 103 and the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 rests inside the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207.

  Referring to FIG. 72, the user interface 5801 simultaneously connects the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 and the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 to the reference point 202 as described above with reference to FIGS. 66A-65D. The secondary housing 5850 and the primary housing 5830 are shown moved in the direction 6691 for extension.

  Referring to FIG. 73, user interface 5801 is shown with secondary housing 5850 rotated in direction 6793 to prevent primary electrode 207 from moving relative to reference point 202. The primary electrode 207 is thus fixed in place but the secondary housing 5850 still slides freely as described above with reference to FIGS. 67A-67D.

  74, user interface 5801 is secondary to extend distal end 213 of secondary electrode 211 beyond reference point 202, as described above with reference to FIGS. 68A-68D. Housing 5850 is shown moved in direction 6891.

  Referring to FIG. 75, the user interface 5801 prepares for partial storage of the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 as described above with reference to FIGS. 69A-69D. The secondary housing 5810 is shown rotated in direction 6993 to secure the distal end 213 of 211 in place beyond the reference point 202.

  Referring to FIG. 76, the user interface 5801 moves the primary housing 5830 in the direction 7091 as described above with reference to FIGS. 70A-70D to partially retract the distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207. It is shown in the closed state. The distal end 209 of the primary electrode 207 is thus partially withdrawn from the reference point 202, leaving the distal end 213 of the secondary electrode 211 in place, whereby the electrodes 207 and 211 for treatment hostility. Prepare.

  Referring to FIG. 77, an exemplary method 7700 of positioning an electrode for treatment is provided. The method 7700 starts at block 7705. At block 7710, a sheath including a primary electrode and a secondary electrode is extended, for example as described above with reference to FIGS. 8, 51, and 61, wherein the secondary electrode is within the primary electrode. And is initially coupled to move with the primary electrode. At block 7720, the primary electrode is moved to a first position near the reference point, eg, as described above with reference to FIGS. 14, 38, 53, and 64. At block 7730, the primary electrode is locked in place at the first position, as described above, for example, with reference to FIGS. 14, 38, 54 and 65. At block 7740, movement of the secondary electrode (independent of the primary electrode) is unlocked, eg, as described above with reference to FIGS. 19, 44, 54, and 65. At block 7750, the secondary electrode is moved to a second position near the reference point, eg, as described above with reference to FIGS. 20, 45, 55, and 66. At block 7760, the secondary electrode is locked in place in the second position, as described above with reference to FIGS. 26, 46, 55 and 68, for example. The method 7700 ends at block 7765 with the electrode currently positioned for application of the treatment.

  Referring to FIG. 78, an exemplary method 7800 of positioning an electrode for treatment is provided. Method 7800 relates to use of a user interface, eg, as described above with reference to FIGS. 11-34.

  The method 7800 begins at block 7805. At block 7810, the sheath is extended toward the reference point and the sheath is mechanically coupled to the primary actuator with the primary electrode mechanically coupled to the primary actuator and selectively lockable by the primary release device. And a secondary electrode lockable by a secondary release device, the secondary electrode being slidably received within the primary electrode. At block 7820, the primary release device is actuated to allow movement of the primary actuator, eg, as described above with reference to FIG. At block 7830, for example, as described above with reference to FIG. 13, the primary actuator moves to move the primary electrode to the first position relative to the reference point. At block 7840, for example, as described above with reference to FIG. 14, the primary release device is locked to lock the primary actuator to maintain the primary electrode in the first position.

  At block 7850, for example, as described above with reference to FIG. 19, the secondary release device is actuated to disconnect the secondary actuator from the primary actuator to allow movement of the secondary actuator independent of the primary actuator. . At block 7860, for example, as described above with reference to FIG. 20, the secondary actuator moves to move the secondary electrode to the second position relative to the reference point. At block 7870, for example, as described above with reference to FIG. 20, the secondary release device is locked to lock the secondary actuator to maintain the secondary electrode in the second position. The method 7800 ends at block 7875 with the electrode currently positioned for application of the treatment.

  Referring to FIG. 79, an exemplary method 7900 of positioning an electrode for treatment is provided. Method 7900 relates to the use of a user interface, eg, as described above with reference to FIGS. 35-47.

  The method 7900 begins at block 7905. At block 7910, the sheath is mechanically coupled to the housing and selectively lockable by the latch with the primary electrode, and mechanically coupled with the secondary actuator and with the lockable secondary electrode by the interlock lever. And the secondary electrode is slidably received within the primary electrode. At block 7920, the latch is released to allow the housing to move the primary electrode relative to the reference point, eg, as described above with reference to FIG. At block 7930, the housing is slid to move the primary electrode to the first position relative to the reference point, eg, as described above with reference to FIG. At block 7940, the latch is secured to prevent movement of the housing relative to the sleeve, for example, as described above with reference to FIG. At block 7950, for example, as described above with reference to FIGS. 44-46, the interlock lever disconnects the secondary electrode from the primary electrode and moves the secondary electrode to the second position relative to the reference point Move through a series of positions within the guide slots on the housing to The method 7900 ends at block 7955 with the electrode currently positioned for application of the treatment.

  Referring to FIG. 80, an exemplary method 8000 of positioning an electrode for treatment is provided. Method 8000 relates to the use of a user interface, eg, as described above with reference to FIGS.

  Method 8000 begins at block 8005. At block 8010, for example, as described above with reference to FIG. 51, the sheath is extended and includes a primary electrode and a secondary electrode slidably received within the primary electrode. .

  At block 8020, an instrument coupled to the primary and secondary electrodes is deployed. The apparatus includes a secondary electrode slider mechanically coupled to the secondary electrode and supporting the secondary actuator. The apparatus also includes a primary electrode slider mechanically coupled with the primary electrode and supporting the primary actuator and defining an intermediate guide slot configured to receive and engage the secondary actuator. The apparatus also includes an outer housing having a first end, eg, all as described above with reference to FIGS. 48-57, but the outer housing is configured to receive and engage the primary actuator. A first guide slot being defined and a second guide slot configured to receive the secondary actuator when the secondary actuator is positioned below the second guide slot.

  At block 8030, for example, as described above with reference to FIG. 53, the primary actuator moves toward the front end of the outer housing to position the primary electrode at a first position relative to the reference point. At block 8040, the outer housing is rotated to expose the intermediate guide slot under the second guide slot, for example as described above with reference to FIG. At block 8050, for example, as described above with reference to FIG. 55, the secondary actuator moves toward the front end of the outer housing to position the secondary electrode at a second position relative to the reference point. The method 8000 ends at block 8055 with the electrode currently positioned for application of the treatment.

  Referring to FIG. 81, an exemplary method 8100 of positioning an electrode for treatment is provided. Method 8100 relates to the use of a user interface, eg, as described above with reference to FIGS.

  Method 8100 begins at block 8105. At block 8010, for example, as described above with reference to FIG. 61, the sheath is extended and the sheath includes a primary electrode and a secondary electrode slidably received within the primary electrode. .

  At block 8120, an instrument coupled to the primary and secondary electrodes is deployed. The apparatus includes a secondary electrode slider mechanically coupled to the secondary electrode and supporting the secondary actuator. The device includes a lock rod configured to be fixed at a position relative to the reference point. The apparatus also includes a primary housing mechanically coupled to the primary electrode. The primary housing also rotatably receives an outwardly directed guide slot configured to selectively limit and allow sliding movement of the guide member, and the lock rod to provide a primary against the lock rod. Also included is a primary lock channel configured to prevent sliding movement of the housing. The apparatus also further includes a secondary housing mechanically coupled to the secondary electrode. The secondary housing is configured to slidably and rotatably receive the primary housing and further includes an internal channel that supports the guide member. The secondary housing also includes a secondary lock channel configured to selectively lock the lock rod into one of a fixedly engageable and a slidably engageable.

  At block 8130, for example, with reference to FIGS. 65A-76, the secondary housing slides and rotates sequentially to move the secondary housing and the primary housing to reference the primary and secondary electrodes. Moved to a position relative to the point, the primary housing slides to move the primary electrode. The method 8000 ends at block 8035 with the electrode currently positioned for application of the treatment.

  Aspects of the subject matter described herein are presented in the following numbered sections.

1. An apparatus for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath inserted into the body and positioned relative to a reference point, the apparatus comprising:
A primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode;
A secondary actuator configured to move the secondary electrode;
Selectively
Prevent movement of at least one of the primary actuator based on the position of the secondary actuator and the secondary actuator based on the position of the primary actuator,
A control mechanism configured to lock the position of the primary and secondary actuators.

2. A sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point;
The instrument according to paragraph 1, further comprising a sheath lock configured to fix the position of the sheath relative to the reference point.

  3. The control mechanism comprises an actuator interlock configured to prevent movement of the primary actuator while the secondary electrode moves independently from the primary electrode to deploy the secondary electrode. Appliance.

  4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the actuator interlock is further configured to limit movement of the secondary actuator within a selected range.

  5. 4. The apparatus of clause 3, wherein the actuator interlock is further configured to prevent movement of the secondary actuator while the primary actuator moves to partially retract the primary electrode.

  6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control mechanism comprises at least one trigger configured to be activated to unlock movement of at least one of the primary actuator and the secondary actuator.

  7. 11. The apparatus according to clause 1, wherein the control mechanism comprises at least one guide channel configured to selectively allow movement of one of the primary and secondary actuators.

8. The guide channel is
Rotation of the primary actuator to unlock the movement of the primary actuator,
Rotation of the secondary actuator to unlock the movement of the secondary actuator,
Allowing at least one of sliding of a primary actuator to move the primary electrode within the first range of motion, and sliding of the secondary actuator to move the secondary electrode within the second range of motion Item 8. The device according to item 7, which is configured as follows.

  9. An apparatus according to clause 1, further comprising a position indicator configured to indicate the travel distance of the primary electrode relative to the reference point.

10. A system for treating tissue at a reference point,
A controllable power supply configured to selectively supply power between the first pole and the second pole;
The sheath, which is inserted into the body and includes a primary electrode electrically coupled to the first pole of the power source and a secondary electrode electrically coupled to the second pole of the power source, is transported to the vicinity of the reference point An electrosurgical instrument, configured as
A sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point;
A sheath lock configured to selectively fix the position of the sheath relative to a reference point;
A primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode;
A secondary actuator configured to move the secondary electrode;
Selectively
Prevent movement of at least one of the primary actuator based on the position of the secondary actuator and the secondary actuator based on the position of the primary actuator,
A control mechanism configured to lock the position of the primary and secondary actuators.

  11. 11. The control mechanism according to claim 10, wherein the control mechanism comprises an actuator interlock configured to prevent movement of the primary actuator while the secondary electrode moves independently from the primary electrode to deploy the secondary electrode. system.

  12. The system of claim 11, wherein the actuator interlock is further configured to limit movement of the secondary actuator within a selected range.

  13. The system according to claim 11, wherein the actuator interlock is further configured to prevent movement of the secondary actuator while the primary actuator moves to partially retract the primary electrode.

  14. 11. The system of clause 10, wherein the control mechanism comprises at least one trigger configured to be activated to unlock movement of at least one of the primary actuator and the secondary actuator.

  15. 11. The system of clause 10, wherein the control mechanism includes at least one guide channel configured to selectively allow movement of one of the primary and secondary actuators.

16. The guide channel is
Rotation of the primary actuator to unlock the movement of the primary actuator,
Rotation of the secondary actuator to unlock the movement of the secondary actuator,
Allowing at least one of sliding of a primary actuator to move the primary electrode within the first range of motion, and sliding of the secondary actuator to move the secondary electrode within the second range of motion Item 20. The system according to Item 15, which is configured as follows.

  17. 11. The system of clause 10, further comprising a position indicator configured to indicate the distance of movement of the primary electrode relative to the reference point.

18. A method of preparing an electrode for electrical treatment involving ablation of tissue at a reference point, comprising:
Extending the sheath including the primary electrode and the secondary electrode, the secondary electrode being contained within the primary electrode and initially coupled to move with the primary electrode;
Moving the primary electrode to a first position near the reference point;
Locking the primary electrode in place in the first position;
Unlocking the movement of the secondary electrode;
Moving the secondary electrode to a second position near the reference point;
Locking the secondary electrode in place in the second position.

19. Locking the movement of the primary electrode after locking the secondary electrode in place in the second position;
22. The method of paragraph 18, further comprising: partially retracting the primary electrode to the third position.

  20. 20. A method according to clause 19, further comprising locking the primary electrode in place in the third position.

21. An apparatus for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath inserted into the body and positioned relative to a reference point, the apparatus comprising:
A primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode;
A secondary actuator configured to deploy the secondary electrode by moving the secondary electrode independently of the primary electrode;
A control mechanism,
A primary release device configured to selectively allow movement of the primary actuator;
A secondary release device configured to selectively disconnect the secondary actuator from the primary actuator and to allow movement of the secondary actuator within a predetermined range;
A control mechanism including an actuator interlock configured to selectively prevent operation of the primary release device.

22. A sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point;
22. The apparatus according to clause 21, further comprising: a sheath lock configured to fix the position of the sheath relative to the reference point.

  23. 22. The device of clause 21, wherein at least one of the primary actuator and the secondary actuator comprises a slidable lever configured to slidably move the associated electrode.

  24. 22. The apparatus according to clause 21, wherein the primary release device comprises a first depressible trigger configured to allow movement of the primary actuator when depressed.

  25. 22. The apparatus according to clause 21, wherein the secondary release device comprises a second depressible trigger configured to release the secondary actuator from the primary actuator when depressed.

  26. The actuator interlock is configured to selectively take a protruding position that prevents actuation of the primary release device when the secondary release device is actuated and the secondary actuator moves the secondary electrode towards the reference point The device according to item 21.

  27. The actuator interlock selectively locks the secondary actuator in place and unlocks the primary release device to selectively assume a storage position that allows the primary actuator to at least partially retract the primary electrode away from the reference point. 27. An apparatus according to clause 26, configured as follows.

28. The actuator interlock further includes a lock pin,
When the actuator interlock is in the extended position, the lock pin is configured to mechanically block the operation of the primary release device;
28. The device of clause 27, wherein the lock pin moves to enable actuation of the primary release device when the actuator interlock is in the storage position.

  29. 22. An apparatus according to clause 21, further comprising a position indicator configured to indicate the travel distance of the primary electrode relative to the reference point.

30. A system for treating tissue at a reference point,
A power supply configured to selectively supply power between the first pole and the second pole;
The sheath, which is inserted into the body and includes a primary electrode electrically coupled to the first pole of the power source and a secondary electrode electrically coupled to the second pole of the power source, is transported to the vicinity of the reference point An electrosurgical instrument, configured as
A sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point;
A sheath lock configured to selectively fix the position of the sheath relative to a reference point;
A primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode;
A secondary actuator configured to deploy the secondary electrode by moving the secondary electrode independently of the primary electrode;
A control mechanism,
A primary release device configured to selectively allow movement of the primary actuator;
A secondary release device configured to selectively disconnect the secondary actuator from the primary actuator and to allow movement of the secondary actuator within a predetermined range;
A control mechanism including an actuator interlock configured to selectively prevent operation of the primary release device.

  31. 31. The system of clause 30, wherein at least one of the primary actuator and the secondary actuator comprises a slidable lever configured to slidably move an associated electrode.

  32. 31. The system of clause 30, wherein the primary release device includes a first depressible trigger configured to allow movement of the primary actuator when depressed.

  33. 31. The system of clause 30, wherein the secondary release device comprises a second depressible trigger configured to release the secondary actuator from the primary actuator when depressed.

  34. The actuator interlock is configured to selectively take a protruding position that prevents actuation of the primary release device when the secondary release device is actuated and the secondary actuator moves the secondary electrode towards the reference point The system according to Item 30, which is

  35. The actuator interlock selectively locks the secondary actuator in place and unlocks the primary release device to selectively assume a storage position that allows the primary actuator to at least partially retract the primary electrode away from the reference point. 35. A system according to item 34, configured as follows.

36. The actuator interlock further includes a lock pin,
When the actuator interlock is in the extended position, the lock pin is configured to mechanically block the operation of the primary release device;
36. The system of clause 35, wherein when the actuator interlock is in the stored position, the lock pin moves to enable actuation of the primary release device.

  37. 31. A system according to clause 30, further comprising a position indicator configured to indicate the distance of movement of the primary electrode relative to the reference point.

38. A method of using an instrument to move an electrode to a position for electrical treatment involving ablation of tissue at a reference point,
Extending the sheath towards the reference point, the sheath being mechanically coupled to the secondary actuator with the primary electrode mechanically coupled to the primary actuator and selectively lockable by the primary release device And a secondary electrode lockable by a secondary release device, the secondary electrode being slidably received within the primary electrode;
Activating the primary release device to allow movement of the primary actuator;
Moving the primary actuator to move the primary electrode to the first position relative to the reference point;
Locking the primary release device to lock the primary actuator and maintaining the primary electrode in the first position;
Activating the secondary release device to decouple the secondary actuator from the primary actuator to allow movement of the secondary actuator independent of the primary actuator;
Moving the secondary actuator to move the secondary electrode to the second position relative to the reference point;
Locking the secondary release device to lock the secondary actuator and maintaining the secondary electrode in the second position.

39. Moving an actuator interlock configured to control relative movement of the primary electrode and the secondary electrode to lock the primary actuator and maintain the primary electrode in the first position;
39. A method according to clause 38, further comprising moving the actuator interlock to lock the secondary actuator to maintain the secondary electrode in the second position.

40. After moving the actuator interlock to the storage position to lock the secondary actuator and maintain the secondary electrode in the second position,
Activating the primary release device;
Moving the primary actuator to partially retract the primary electrode in the third position;
40. A method according to clause 39, further comprising releasing the primary release device to maintain the position of the primary electrode in a third position.

41. An apparatus for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath inserted into the body and positioned relative to a reference point, the apparatus comprising:
A housing mechanically coupled to the primary electrode and defining a section transverse to the axis of the housing and a guide slot having a section parallel to the axis of the housing;
A sleeve having a distal end configured to engage the electrosurgical instrument and a proximal end configured to be slidably received within the first end of the housing;
A latch disposed at a first end of the housing configured to selectively move the housing along the sleeve to move the primary electrode to a first position relative to a reference point;
A secondary actuator received within the housing and coupled to the secondary electrode, the secondary actuator being configured to move independently from the primary electrode parallel to the axis of the housing; ,
An interlock lever mechanically coupled to the secondary actuator and extending through the guide slot, the interlock lever being a secondary when the secondary electrode reaches a second position relative to the reference point An interlock lever, further comprising a clamp configured to lock the actuator to the sleeve.

  42. When the interlock lever is in the first position, the interlock lever is received within the first transverse section of the guide slot configured to prevent the secondary actuator from moving relative to the housing 42. An apparatus according to item 41, wherein the secondary electrode is coupled to move with the primary electrode.

  43. When the interlock lever is in the second position, the interlock lever is configured to allow the secondary actuator to move the secondary electrode to the secondary position relative to the reference point, the first parallel section of the guide slot The device according to Item 42, which is slidably received therein.

  44. 44. The method according to paragraph 43, wherein when the interlock lever is in the third position, the interlock lever rotates through the second transverse section of the guide slot configured to cause the clamp to lock the secondary actuator to the sleeve. Equipment described.

  45. When the interlock lever is in the fourth position, the interlock lever allows the housing to partially retract the primary electrode in the third position relative to the reference point so that the housing is independent of the secondary actuator. 45. An apparatus according to clause 44, slidably received within a second parallel section of the guide slot configured to be movable in a direction away from the distal end of the sleeve.

  46. 45. An apparatus according to clause 44, wherein the sleeve comprises a depth setting rod supporting outwardly facing teeth on at least one side of the depth setting parallel to the surface of the sleeve engaged by the clamp.

  47. One of the clamps on the interlock lever is configured to engage the outwardly facing teeth on the depth setter rod when the interlock lever rotates through the second transverse section of the guide slot 51. An apparatus according to clause 46, comprising inwardly facing teeth on two or more faces.

  48.1 one or more faces facilitate engagement with the outwardly facing teeth on the depth setter rod when the interlock lever rotates through the second transverse section of the guide slot The apparatus according to Item 47, wherein the apparatus is configured to bend.

  49. An apparatus according to clause 41, wherein the sleeve further comprises a position indicator configured to indicate relative movement of the primary electrode caused by movement of the housing relative to the sleeve.

  50. An apparatus according to clause 41, further comprising a secondary actuator slider lever extending outside the housing configured to allow the secondary actuator to move relative to the housing.

51. A system for treating tissue at a reference point,
A power supply configured to selectively supply power between the first pole and the second pole;
The sheath, which is inserted into the body and includes a primary electrode electrically coupled to the first pole of the power source and a secondary electrode electrically coupled to the second pole of the power source, is transported to the vicinity of the reference point An electrosurgical instrument, configured as
A sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point;
A sheath lock configured to selectively fix the position of the sheath relative to a reference point;
A housing mechanically coupled to the primary electrode and including a section transverse to the axis of the housing and a guide slot having a section parallel to the axis of the housing;
A sleeve having a distal end configured to engage the bronchoscope and a proximal end configured to be slidably received within the first end of the housing;
A latch disposed at a first end of the housing configured to selectively move the housing along the sleeve to move the primary electrode to a first position relative to a reference point;
A secondary actuator received within the housing and coupled to the secondary electrode, the secondary actuator being configured to move independently from the primary electrode parallel to the axis of the housing; ,
An interlock lever mechanically coupled to the secondary actuator and extending through the guide slot, the interlock lever being a secondary when the secondary electrode reaches a second position relative to the reference point An interlock lever, further comprising a clamp configured to lock the actuator to the sleeve.

52. Interlock lever,
When in the first position, the interlocking lever is received within the first transverse section of the guide slot configured to prevent the secondary actuator from moving relative to the housing, whereby the secondary electrode Combined with the primary electrode,
When in the second position, the interlock lever slides into a first parallel section of the guide slot configured to allow the secondary actuator to move the secondary electrode to the secondary position relative to the reference point Be accepted as possible
When in the third position, the interlock lever rotates through the second transverse section of the guide slot configured to cause the clamp to lock the secondary actuator to the sleeve;
When in the fourth position, the interlock lever allows the housing to partially retract the primary electrode in the third position relative to the reference point so that the housing is independent of the secondary actuator and of the sleeve 52. A system according to clause 51, slidably received within a second parallel section of the guide slot configured to be movable away from the distal end.

  53. 53. A system according to clause 52, wherein the sleeve comprises a depth setting rod supporting outwardly facing teeth on at least one side of the depth setting parallel to the surface of the sleeve engaged by the clamp.

  54. The clamp on the actuator lever is one or more configured to engage the outwardly facing teeth on the depth setter rod when the interlock lever rotates through the second transverse section of the guide slot 54. A system according to clause 53, comprising inwardly facing teeth on two or more faces.

  55.1 one or more faces facilitate engagement with the outwardly facing teeth on the depth setter rod as the interlock lever rotates through the second transverse section of the guide slot 55. The system of clause 54, wherein the system is configured to flex.

  56. 52. The system of clause 51, wherein the sleeve further comprises a position indicator configured to indicate relative movement of the primary electrode caused by movement of the housing relative to the sleeve.

  57. 52. The system of clause 51, further comprising a secondary actuator extending outside the housing configured to allow the secondary actuator to move relative to the housing.

58. A method of moving an electrode to a position for electrical treatment involving ablation of tissue at a reference point, the method comprising:
Extending the sheath wherein the sheath is mechanically coupled to the housing and mechanically coupled to the primary electrode selectively lockable by the latch and the secondary actuator and locked by the interlock lever Potential secondary electrodes, wherein the secondary electrodes are slidably received within the primary electrodes,
Releasing the latch to allow the housing to move the primary electrode relative to the reference point;
Sliding the housing to move the primary electrode to a first position relative to a reference point;
Securing the latch to prevent movement of the housing relative to the sleeve;
Moving the interlock lever through a series of positions in the guide slot on the housing,
To disconnect the secondary electrode from the primary electrode;
Moving the secondary electrode to a second position relative to the reference point.

  59. 61. A method according to clause 58, further comprising moving the interlock lever to lock the secondary electrode in the second position and disconnecting the secondary electrode from the primary electrode.

  60. 61. A method according to clause 58, further comprising unlatching and moving the housing to partially retract the primary electrode in a third position relative to the reference point.

61. An apparatus for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath inserted into the body and positioned relative to a reference point, the apparatus comprising:
A second electrode slider mechanically coupled to the secondary electrode and supporting the secondary actuator;
A primary electrode slider configured to slidably and rotatably receive a second electrode slider, wherein the primary electrode slider is mechanically coupled to the primary electrode to support the primary actuator, and secondary A primary electrode slider defining an intermediate guide slot configured to receive and engage the actuator;
An outer housing having a first end facing towards a reference point, the outer housing being configured to slidably and rotatably receive a primary electrode slider,
A first guide slot configured to receive and engage the primary actuator;
An outer housing defining a second guide slot configured to receive a secondary actuator when the secondary actuator is positioned below.

62. A sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point;
72. An apparatus according to clause 61, further comprising: a sheath lock configured to selectively fix the position of the sheath relative to the reference point.

  63. A first guide slot configured to direct the primary actuator to move linearly towards the front end of the outer housing to move the primary electrode to the first position relative to the reference point; The appliance according to Item 61.

  64. When the outer housing is laterally rotated in a first direction to expose the intermediate guide slot under the second guide slot and to receive the secondary actuator in the second guide slot, the first The device of clause 63, wherein the guide slot is further configured to engage the primary actuator.

  65. The apparatus of clause 64, wherein the secondary actuator is configured to mechanically extend upwardly through the second guide slot once the intermediate guide slot is exposed below the second guide slot. .

  66. A second guide slot linearly aligns the secondary actuator from the distal end of the second guide slot to the proximal end of the guide slot to move the secondary electrode to the second position relative to the reference point 66. An apparatus according to clause 65, wherein the apparatus is configured to direct movement.

  67. 71. The apparatus according to clause 66, wherein the outer housing further comprises a secondary actuator latch configured to secure the secondary latch at the distal end of the second guide slot.

  68. The first guide slot is further configured to guide the primary actuator as the primary actuator is withdrawn from the front end of the outer housing and guides the primary electrode to a third position relative to the reference point. The equipment described in.

  69. The second guide slot includes an inwardly directed ramp at the distal end of the second guide slot to force the secondary level under the outer housing when the outer housing is rotated in the second direction. The apparatus according to Item 66.

70. A system for treating tissue at a reference point,
A power supply configured to selectively supply power between the first pole and the second pole;
The sheath, which is inserted into the body and includes a primary electrode electrically coupled to the first pole of the power source and a secondary electrode electrically coupled to the second pole of the power source, is transported to the vicinity of the reference point An electrosurgical instrument, configured as
A sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point;
A sheath lock configured to selectively fix the position of the sheath relative to a reference point;
A secondary electrode slider mechanically coupled to the secondary electrode and supporting the secondary actuator;
A primary electrode slider configured to slidably and rotatably receive a secondary electrode slider, wherein the primary electrode slider is mechanically coupled to the primary electrode to support the primary actuator, the secondary actuator A primary electrode slider defining an intermediate guide slot configured to receive and engage the
An outer housing having a front end facing towards a reference point, the outer housing being configured to slidably and rotatably receive a primary electrode slider,
A first guide slot configured to receive and engage the primary actuator;
An outer housing defining a second guide slot configured to receive a secondary actuator when the secondary actuator is positioned below.

  71. A first guide slot configured to direct the primary actuator to move linearly towards the front end of the outer housing to move the primary electrode to the first position relative to the reference point; The system according to Item 70.

  72. When the outer housing is rotated in a first direction to expose the intermediate guide slot under the second guide slot and to receive the secondary actuator in the second guide slot, the first guide slot rotates 72. The system of clause 71, further configured to engage a primary actuator.

  73. The first guide slot is further configured to guide the primary actuator as the primary actuator is withdrawn from the front end of the outer housing and guides the primary electrode to a third position relative to the reference point. The system described in.

  74. 73. The system of clause 73, wherein the secondary actuator is configured to mechanically extend upwardly through the second guide slot once the intermediate guide slot is exposed below the second guide slot. .

  75. A second guide slot linearly aligns the secondary actuator from the distal end of the second guide slot to the proximal end of the guide slot to move the secondary electrode to the second position relative to the reference point 78. The system of clause 74, wherein the system is configured to direct movement.

  76. 76. The system of clause 75, wherein the outer housing further comprises a secondary actuator latch configured to secure a secondary latch at the distal end of the second guide slot.

  77. The second guide slot includes an inwardly directed ramp at the distal end of the second guide slot to force the secondary level under the outer housing when the outer housing is rotated in the second direction. The system according to Item 76.

78. A method of moving an electrode to a position for electrical treatment involving ablation of tissue at a reference point, the method comprising:
Extending the sheath, the sheath including a primary electrode, and a secondary electrode slidably received within the primary electrode;
Deploying an instrument coupled to the primary electrode and the secondary electrode, the instrument comprising:
A secondary electrode slider mechanically coupled to the secondary electrode and supporting the secondary actuator;
A primary electrode slider mechanically coupled to the primary electrode, supporting the primary actuator, and defining an intermediate guide slot configured to receive and engage the secondary actuator;
An outer housing having a first end, the outer housing having a first guide slot configured to receive and engage a primary actuator, and a secondary actuator below the second guide slot An outer housing defining a second guide slot configured to receive the secondary actuator when positioned.
Moving the primary actuator towards the front end of the outer housing to position the primary electrode at a first position relative to the reference point;
Rotating the outer housing to expose the intermediate guide slot under the second guide slot;
Moving the secondary actuator toward the front end of the outer housing to position the secondary electrode at a second position relative to the reference point.

  79. 78. The method of clause 76, further comprising locking the secondary actuator to a reference point.

  80. 79. The method of clause 78 further comprising moving the primary actuator away from the front end of the outer housing to partially retract the primary electrode in the third position relative to the reference point.

81. An apparatus for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath inserted into the body and positioned relative to a reference point, the apparatus comprising:
A lock rod configured to be fixed at a position relative to the reference point;
A primary housing mechanically coupled to the primary electrode, the primary housing being
An outwardly facing guide slot configured to selectively limit and allow sliding movement of the guide member;
A primary lock further comprising a primary lock channel configured to rotatably receive the lock rod and to prevent sliding movement of the primary housing relative to the lock rod;
A secondary housing mechanically coupled to the secondary electrode, the secondary housing being
An internal channel configured to slidably and rotatably receive the primary housing and support the guide member;
And a secondary housing further including a secondary lock channel configured to selectively perform one of a lockable engagement and a slideable engagement.
Rotation of the secondary housing selectively moves the lock rod within the primary lock channel in and out and within the secondary lock channel to selectively sliding movement relative to at least one lock rod of the primary housing and the secondary housing. To allow and block.

82. A sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point and to position the lock rod relative to the reference point;
82. The apparatus of clause 81, further comprising: a sheath lock configured to selectively lock the position of the sheath.

  83. 81. A device according to clause 81, wherein the locking rod supports a plurality of outwardly facing teeth configured to engage inward facing teeth positioned in the secondary locking channel and in a portion of the primary locking channel. .

  84. 88. An apparatus according to clause 83, wherein the primary locking channel comprises a first set of one or more outwardly directed teeth configured to prevent sliding movement of the primary housing relative to the locking rod.

85. The secondary locking channel is the three lobes in which the locking rod is received,
A first configured to slidably receive the lock rod and to retain the lock rod outside the primary lock channel to allow sliding movement of both the primary housing and the secondary housing relative to the lock rod. With the robe,
A second lobe slidably receiving the lock rod and moving the lock rod into the primary lock channel to prevent sliding movement of the primary housing relative to the lock rod;
Support a second set of one or more inward facing teeth configured to prevent sliding movement of the secondary housing relative to the lock rod and to allow sliding movement of the primary housing relative to the lock rod 100. An apparatus according to clause 83, comprising three lobes, comprising:

  86. Guide slots control the relative sliding movement of the primary housing and the secondary housing, and control the relative rotational movement of the secondary housing relative to the primary housing to provide between the three lobes of the secondary lock channel in the lock rod. 96. An apparatus according to clause 85, comprising a plurality of guide segments configured to engage the guide members for movement.

87. Multiple guide segments are
A transverse guide segment disposed transverse to the axis of the lock rod to prevent independent sliding of the secondary housing relative to the primary housing;
86. A parallel guide segment according to claim 86, wherein the guide comprises at least one or more parallel guide segments arranged parallel to the axis of the lock rod to allow independent sliding movement of the secondary housing relative to the primary housing Fixtures.

  88. A plurality of guide segments are received within the first lobe of the secondary lock channel and simultaneously slide the secondary and primary electrodes onto the secondary housing and the primary housing, and the secondary housing is rotated to lock A first corresponding to a lock rod configured to prevent the secondary housing from sliding independently from the primary housing while receiving the rod in the second lobe of the secondary lock channel 90. An apparatus according to clause 87, comprising a transverse guide segment.

  89. A plurality of guide segments are received in the second lobe of the secondary lock channel and allow the secondary housing to slide independently of the primary housing to slide the secondary electrode independently of the primary electrode 88. A device according to clause 87, comprising a second parallel guide segment corresponding to a lock rod configured to allow for

  90. The plurality of guide segments are configured to prevent the secondary housing from sliding relative to the primary housing while the secondary housing is rotating to receive the lock rod in the third lobe of the secondary lock channel. 88. An apparatus according to clause 87, comprising a third transverse guide segment configured in.

  91. A plurality of guide segments are received in the third lobe of the secondary lock channel and allow the primary housing to slide independently of the secondary housing to slide the primary electrode independently of the secondary electrode 88. An apparatus according to clause 87, comprising a fourth parallel guide segment corresponding to the lock rod configured to allow for

92. A system for treating tissue at a reference point,
A power supply configured to selectively supply power to the primary electrode and the secondary electrode between the first pole and the second pole;
A lock rod configured to be fixed at a position relative to the reference point;
A sheath actuator configured to move a sheath housing the primary and secondary electrodes relative to a reference point, and to position the lock rod relative to the reference point;
A sheath lock configured to selectively lock the position of the sheath and the lock rod;
A primary housing mechanically coupled to the primary electrode, the primary housing being
An outwardly facing guide slot configured to selectively limit and allow sliding movement of the guide member;
A primary lock further comprising a primary lock channel configured to rotatably receive the lock rod and to prevent sliding movement of the primary housing relative to the lock rod;
A secondary housing mechanically coupled to the secondary electrode, the secondary housing being
An internal channel configured to slidably and rotatably receive the primary housing and supporting the guide member;
And a secondary housing further including a secondary lock channel configured to selectively perform one of a lockable engagement and a slideable engagement.
Rotation of the secondary housing selectively moves the lock rod within the primary lock channel in and out and within the secondary lock channel to selectively sliding movement relative to at least one lock rod of the primary housing and the secondary housing. Allow and block the system.

  93. 100. The system of clause 92, wherein the locking rod supports a plurality of outwardly facing teeth configured to engage inward facing teeth positioned in the secondary locking channel and in a portion of the primary locking channel. .

  94. 100. The system of clause 93, wherein the primary locking channel comprises a first set of one or more outward facing teeth configured to prevent sliding movement of the primary housing relative to the locking rod.

95. The secondary locking channel is the three lobes in which the locking rod is received,
A first configured to slidably receive the lock rod and to retain the lock rod outside the primary lock channel to allow sliding movement of both the primary housing and the secondary housing relative to the lock rod. With the robe,
A second lobe slidably receiving the lock rod and moving the lock rod into the primary lock channel to prevent sliding movement of the primary housing relative to the lock rod;
Support a second set of one or more inward facing teeth configured to prevent sliding movement of the secondary housing relative to the lock rod and to allow sliding movement of the primary housing relative to the lock rod 100. A system according to clause 93, comprising three lobes, including a third lobe.

96. Guide slots control the relative sliding movement of the primary housing and the secondary housing, and control the relative rotational movement of the secondary housing relative to the primary housing to provide between the three lobes of the secondary lock channel in the lock rod. The guide slot includes a plurality of guide segments configured to engage the guide members for movement.
One or more transverse guide segments disposed transverse to the axis of the lock rod to prevent independent sliding of the secondary housing relative to the primary housing;
100. A device according to clause 93, comprising one or more parallel guide segments arranged parallel to the axis of the lock rod to allow independent sliding movement of the secondary housing relative to the primary housing. .

97. Multiple guide segments are
The secondary lock channel is received in the first lobe of the secondary lock channel, and the secondary housing and primary housing simultaneously slide on the secondary housing and the primary housing, and the secondary housing is rotated to lock the lock rod to the secondary lock channel A first transverse guide segment corresponding to the lock rod configured to prevent the secondary housing from sliding independently of the primary housing while being received in the second lobe of the second housing;
It is received in the second lobe of the secondary lock channel, enabling sliding of the secondary housing independently of the primary housing and sliding of the secondary electrode independently of the primary electrode A second parallel guide segment corresponding to the lock rod being configured as
A second housing configured to prevent sliding of the secondary housing relative to the primary housing while the secondary housing is rotating to receive the lock rod in the third lobe of the secondary lock channel; 3 traversing guide segments,
Received in the third lobe of the secondary lock channel, enabling sliding of the primary housing independently of the secondary housing and sliding of the primary electrode independently of the secondary electrode 103. A device according to clause 96, comprising a fourth parallel guide segment corresponding to the lock rod configured as above.

98. A method of using an instrument to move an electrode to a position for electrical treatment involving ablation of tissue at a reference point,
Extending the sheath, the sheath including a primary electrode, and a secondary electrode slidably received within the primary electrode;
Deploying an instrument coupled to the primary electrode and the secondary electrode, the instrument comprising:
A lock rod configured to be fixed at a position relative to the reference point;
A primary housing mechanically coupled to the primary electrode, the primary housing being
An outwardly facing guide slot configured to selectively limit and allow sliding movement of the guide member relative to the primary housing;
A primary lock further comprising a primary lock channel configured to rotatably receive the lock rod and to prevent sliding movement of the primary housing relative to the lock rod;
A secondary housing mechanically coupled to the secondary electrode, the secondary housing being
An internal channel configured to slidably and rotatably receive the primary housing and support the guide member;
A secondary housing further comprising: a secondary lock channel configured to selectively perform one of a lockable engagement and a slidable engagement. When,
The secondary housing is continuously slid and rotated to move the secondary housing and the primary housing to move the primary and secondary electrodes to a position relative to the reference point, and the primary housing is slid to move the primary electrode. And moving.

  99. 100. The method of clause 98, further comprising setting the position of the lock rod relative to a reference point to provide a reference position for the secondary housing and the primary housing.

100. Sliding the secondary housing and the primary housing relative to the lock bar to slide the secondary electrode and the primary electrode to the first position relative to the reference point;
Rotating the secondary housing to lock the primary housing to the lock bar and locking the primary electrode in place;
Sliding the secondary housing relative to the lock bar and the primary housing to slide the secondary electrode to a second position relative to the reference point;
Rotating the secondary housing to lock the secondary housing to the lock bar and locking the secondary electrode in place;
100. A method according to clause 99, further comprising: sliding the primary housing relative to the lock bar to partially retract the primary electrode in a third position relative to the reference point.

  The modes for carrying out the invention described above are essentially merely illustrative, and variations within the scope and / or scope of the claimed subject matter do not depart from the scope of the claims. It will be understood that it is intended. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 system 101, 701, 1101 user interface 103, 203, 303 sheath 105 distal end 114 electric current source 116 infusion pump 118 bronchoscope 119 insertion tube 120 stepping unit 122 pedal 130 conductor 131 exit 134 electrical connector 148 port 201 reference point 202 Target Tissue 205, 209, 213 Distal End 207 Primary Electrode 211, 511 Secondary Electrode 704 Sheath Actuator 706 Sheath Lock 710 Interface Housing 712 Sleeve 714 Collar 716 Distal End 718 Electrosurgical Instrument 748 Port 819 Distance 920, 1120 Connector 1110 interface housing 1112 sleeve 1114 collar 1121 axis 1122 lead 1123 curve 1124 lower 126 upper 1130 primary release device 1132 primary actuator 1140 actuator interlock 1150 secondary release device 1152 secondary actuator 1153 secondary gripper 1190 depth gauge

Claims (15)

An apparatus for slidably moving a plurality of features relative to a sheath inserted into the body and positioned relative to a reference point, the apparatus comprising:
A primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode;
A secondary actuator configured to move the secondary electrode;
Selectively
Prevent movement of at least one of the primary actuator based on the position of the secondary actuator and the secondary actuator based on the position of the primary actuator, or
A control mechanism configured to lock the position of the primary actuator and the secondary actuator;
An apparatus comprising: A sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point;
The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a sheath lock configured to fix the position of the sheath relative to the reference point.   The control mechanism includes an actuator interlock configured to prevent movement of the primary actuator while the secondary electrode moves independently from the primary electrode to deploy the secondary electrode. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that   The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the actuator interlock is further configured to limit movement of the secondary actuator within a selected range.   The actuator interlock is further configured to prevent movement of the secondary actuator during movement of the primary actuator to partially retract the primary electrode. The equipment described in.   The system of claim 1, wherein the control mechanism includes at least one guide channel configured to selectively allow movement of one of the primary and secondary actuators. Fixtures. The guide channel is
Rotation of the primary actuator to unlock movement of the primary actuator;
Rotation of the secondary actuator to unlock movement of the secondary actuator;
Sliding of the primary actuator to move the primary electrode within a first range of motion;
Sliding of the secondary actuator to move the secondary electrode within a second range of motion;
The device according to claim 6, characterized in that it is configured to enable at least one of the following.   The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a position indicator configured to indicate a travel distance of the primary electrode relative to the reference point. A system for treating tissue at a reference point,
A controllable power supply configured to selectively supply power between the first pole and the second pole;
A reference point inserted into the body and including a primary electrode electrically coupled to the first pole of the power source and a secondary electrode electrically coupled to the second pole of the power source; An electrosurgical instrument configured to be transported in the vicinity of
A sheath actuator configured to move the sheath relative to the reference point;
A sheath lock configured to selectively fix the position of the sheath relative to the reference point;
A primary actuator configured to move the primary electrode;
A secondary actuator configured to move the secondary electrode;
Selectively
Prevent movement of at least one of the primary actuator based on the position of the secondary actuator and the secondary actuator based on the position of the primary actuator, or
A control mechanism configured to lock the position of the primary actuator and the secondary actuator;
A system comprising:   The control mechanism includes an actuator interlock configured to prevent movement of the primary actuator while the secondary electrode moves independently from the primary electrode to deploy the secondary electrode. The system according to claim 9, characterized by   11. The system of claim 10, wherein the actuator interlock is further configured to limit movement of the secondary actuator within a selected range.   11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the actuator interlock is further configured to prevent movement of the secondary actuator during movement of the primary actuator to partially retract the primary electrode. The system described in.   10. The system of claim 9, wherein the control mechanism includes at least one guide channel configured to selectively allow movement of one of the primary actuator and the secondary actuator. System. The guide channel is
Rotation of the primary actuator to unlock movement of the primary actuator;
Rotation of the secondary actuator to unlock movement of the secondary actuator;
Sliding of the primary actuator to move the primary electrode within a first range of motion;
Sliding of the secondary actuator to move the secondary electrode within a second range of motion;
The system according to claim 13, characterized in that it is configured to enable at least one of the following.   10. The system of claim 9, further comprising a position indicator configured to indicate the travel distance of the primary electrode relative to the reference point.

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