WO2021111472A1

WO2021111472A1 - Device for detecting and treating tissue abnormalities

Info

Publication number: WO2021111472A1
Application number: PCT/IN2020/051001
Authority: WO
Inventors: Venkata Sesha Sindhu Srivaishnavi GOMATHAM; Rakesh Patel; Sugat INGLE; Gaurav GUMMARAJU; Avijit BANSAL; Neerja BHATLA; Roopa HARIPRASAD
Original assignee: Secretary, Department Of Biotechnology
Priority date: 2019-12-05
Filing date: 2020-12-03
Publication date: 2021-06-10

Abstract

A device (102) for detecting and treating tissue abnormalities is disclosed. The device (102) comprises a main body (104), a visualization unit (106), and an ablation unit (112). The visualization unit (106) is mounted on the main body (104) to capture and render images of cervix of a patient on a display unit (108) to allow real time identification of tissue abnormalities in the cervix. The ablation unit (112), detachably attached to the main body (104), is provided to ablate one or more areas of cervical tissues having the tissue abnormalities.

Description

DEVICE FOR DETECTING AND TREATING TISSUE ABNORMALITIES

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present subject matter relates, in general, to methods and apparatus for diagnosis and treatment of tissue abnormalities, and in particular to detection and treatment of tissue abnormalities in cervix.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Cervical cancer usually develops from a precancerous stage known as CIN (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia). CIN is the abnormal growth of cells on the surface of a cervix, i.e., the lower part of uterus connecting with the vagina, that could potentially lead to cervical cancer. CIN’s are mostly caused due to development of chronic cervix infection with the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0003] The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures are merely examples of the present subject matter and are not meant to represent the subject matter itself.

[0004] Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of a device for detecting and treating tissue abnormalities in cervix, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0005] Figures 2A illustrates a device for detecting and treating tissue abnormalities in the cervix, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0006] Figures 2B illustrates the device for detecting and treating tissue abnormalities in the cervix, according to another example implementation of the present subject matter. [0007] Figures 3A and 3B illustrate an ablation unit with a sterile sleeve, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0008] Figures 4A and 4B illustrate the device in operation for detecting and treating tissue abnormalities in the cervix, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0009] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate the device in operation for detecting and treating tissue abnormalities in the cervix, according to another example implementation of the present subject matter. [0010] Figure 6 illustrates a method for detecting and treating tissue abnormalities in the cervix, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0011] Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers designate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and the size of some parts may be exaggerated to more clearly illustrate the example shown. Moreover, the drawings provide examples and/or implementations consistent with the description; however, the description is not limited to the examples and/or implementations provided in the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of death in women around the globe. Cervical cancer is caused by a chronic infection of the cervix with FIPV. The infected cells grow unchecked and accumulate successive mutations, eventually leading to cancer. Although, cervical cancer is preventable owing to a slow growth, a large number of women are usually left untreated and/or undiagnosed due to lack of affordable and accessible means for diagnoses and treatment of the cervical cancer. This leads to increased incidences of cervical cancer in women of reproductive age group. [0013] Conventionally, in order to detect abnormalities in tissues of the cervix, a sample of one or more tissues is collected from the surface of the cervix and examined under a microscope for abnormalities. Other techniques involve use of a special type of microscope called a colposcope to inspect the cervix. In this technique, the entire area surrounding the cervix is stained with a harmless dye or acetic acid making lesions easier to see. The cervix is then examined for any abnormal-appearing tissue using the colposcope.

[0014] An appropriate treatment may then be given based on the stage of the cancer. A conventional method of treatment involves destroying abnormal areas of the tissues by heating using thermo coagulation/ thermal ablation. Another conventional technique involves destroying abnormal areas of the tissues by cooling using cryogenic gases. Another conventional technique involves a surgical procedure involving passage of electrical current through a thin wire loop as a knife to remove abnormal tissue or cancer. Another conventional technique involves use of a laser beam as a knife to make bloodless cuts in tissue or to remove the abnormal areas of the tissues. However, conventional methods of detection and treatment involve separate detection and treatment phases using separate tools and device. Such conventional techniques are thus usually time consuming, very expensive, and painful for the patient as certain procedures may be repeated for the treatment phase after the detection phase. Further, extensive training is required to train a person to operate such conventional devices, thereby, rendering the process tedious and time consuming. Owing to the limited space and visibility, the treatment phase becomes very complex and difficult for the surgeon or technician performing the surgery, posing the patient at a very high risk as a slight mistake may cause harm to other tissues that were not intended to be removed. In addition, a high degree of clinical infrastructure is required for such devices. As a result, a user may have to visit a tertiary medical setting in order to get diagnosed and treated, thereby limiting the user’s reach.

[0015] The present subject matter describes a device that may be used for detecting and treating tissue abnormalities. In one example, the device may be used for detecting and treating cervical tissue abnormalities, such as precancerous lesions, cervicitis, cervical ectopy, genital warts, malignant/non-malignant changes in the cervix, and cervical cancer. The device may be used by a user, such as a caregiver and an operator to examine and treat tissues of the cervix of a patient. In an embodiment, the device may include a main body housing a control unit. The device further includes a visualization unit mounted on the main body to capture and render images of the cervix on a display unit to allow real time identification of tissue abnormalities, such as lesions in the cervix. As will be understood, a lesion is an abnormal growth in tissues of the cervix of a patient. The device may further include an illumination unit electrically coupled to the main body to provide different color/light settings/patterns to enhance the visualization process. Further, the device may include the display unit to render the image of the cervix to the operator to determine whether the visualized tissues of the cervix have any abnormalities, for example, precancerous lesions.

[0016] The device further includes an ablation unit to ablate one or more areas of cervical tissues having the tissue abnormalities. In one example, the ablation unit may include a probe having a connecting end to detachably couple the ablation unit to the main body. In one example implementation, the ablation unit may be communicatively and electrically coupled with the main body. The probe may further include a probe tip end to be inserted inside a vaginal canal of the patient to be in proximity with the cervix to ablate the one or more areas of the cervical tissues having the tissue abnormalities. The probe tip end may receive a heating element to ablate the one or more areas of the cervical tissues having the tissue abnormalities. In one example, the heating element may be coupled to the probe tip end. In another example, the heating element may be provided on a sterile sleeve that may be rolled over the probe such that the heating element is electrically coupled with the probe tip end.

[0017] In an example implementation, in order to examine the cervix of the patient, a speculum may be initially inserted into the vagina to widen the opening of the vagina. Once the vaginal opening is wide open, an operator may align the visualization unit of the device in an axis corresponding to the cervix. The operator may initiate the visualization process and examine the one or more tissues of the cervix for any tissue abnormalities that are being displayed on the display unit. In order to get a better view of the cervix, the operator may adjust the height of the device or change the illumination settings via the illumination unit. If the operator is able to identify tissue abnormalities, such as presence of precancerous lesions in the cervix, the operator may then attach the ablation unit to the device.

[0018] Once the ablation unit is connected to the main body of the device, the operator may input information, such as ablation data about the ablation process. In an example, the ablation data may contain details about time of ablation, and amount of heat to be applied. The control unit may initiate the ablation unit to ablate the one or more areas of cervical tissues having the tissue abnormalities in response to user input for initiating the ablation. In one example, the ablation may be carried out at a whole layer of tissue at the surface of the cervix. In another example, the ablation may be performed at some sites of the cervix. Upon initiation, the heating element of the ablation unit may generate heat at predetermined temperature as per the ablation data. Once the time for which the ablation should last has lapsed or required depth of necrosis has been achieved, the operator may terminate the process of treating the cervical tissues. Further, a temperature sensor of the ablation unit may sense a current temperature of the heating element to provide a feedback to the control unit. In case the current temperature of the heating element increases beyond safe operating range, the control unit may decrease an operating temperature of the heating element to reduce the temperature of the heat generated by the heating element.

[0019] The present subject matter thus allows detection and treatment of tissue abnormalities in the cervix of the patient using a single device. As a result, separate devices might not be required to carry out detection and treatment processes. In one example, the device may be a portable handheld device that may easily be operated by an operator. In another example, the device may be installed on a stand during the diagnosis and treatment processes. Thus, such devices may be installed easily in any medical setting, thereby, providing a cost effective and easy to implement device on a large scale. As a result, a patient can undergo the detection and treatment process even in countries and regions lacking proper infrastructure and may not be required to visit tertiary medical settings. Further, since the display unit renders the visuals of the cervix on a real-time basis, the operator may be able to confirm the presence of the tissue abnormalities without any delay.

[0020] Further, having a detachable ablation unit facilitates easy and efficient diagnosis as the visualization unit can be kept closely to the vaginal opening during diagnosis. The ablation unit may also easily be either replaced or sterilized after each use, thus ensuring hygiene and safety for the patients. Alternately, having a sterile sleeve helps in reducing the costs for the probe as only the sterile sleeve may be changed after each use, thus saving the time and cost for the operator. Further, allowing the control unit to control heating of the ablation unit based on the ablation data and feedback from the temperature sensor may avoid any possible error in controlling the device and thus provide a safe operating environment. [0021] The present subject matter is further described with reference to Figures 1 to 6. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate principles of the present subject matter. Various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, encompass the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and examples of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.

[0022] Figure 1 illustrates a device 102 for detecting and treating tissue abnormalities in cervix of a patient, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter. In one example, the device 102 may be used for detecting and treating tissue abnormalities in cervix, such as cervical precancerous lesions and other cervical infections, for example, cervicitis, cervical ectopy, genital warts, and malignant/non- malignant changes in the cervix. In one example, the device 102 may be used by an operator or a caregiver to diagnose a patient who has a probability of developing cervical cancer. The device 102 includes a main body 104, a visualization unit 106, a display unit 108, an illumination unit 110, an ablation unit 112, and a magnification control interface 114.

[0023] In one example, the main body 104 may include a control unit 116, a memory 118, a user interface 120, and a power supply unit 122. The control unit 116 may communicate with various units of the device 102 to control the functioning of the device 102. The control unit 116 may be electrically and communicatively coupled with the visualization unit 106, the display unit 108, the illumination unit 110, the ablation unit 112, the magnification control interface 114, the user interface 120, and the power supply unit 122 of the device 102.

[0024] In one example, the visualization unit 106 may be mounted on the main body 104 of the device 102. The visualization unit 106 may be provided to capture and render images of a cervix of a patient on the display unit 108 of the device 102 to allow real-time identification of tissue abnormalities in the cervix. Examples of the visualization unit 106 may include, but are not limited to, lens, combination of lenses, on-board camera, and combination of lenses and cameras. Further, the images may include, but are not limited to, still images, motion images forming a video, and burst images. In one example, the operator may align the device 102 in an axis corresponding to the cervix of the patient to analyze and identify infected areas in the cervix. The operator may then initiate the visualization unit 106 using the user interface 120. On receiving the user inputs, the control unit 116 may initiate the visualization unit 106 to capture the images of the cervix and its surrounding areas.

[0025] In one example, the visualization unit 106 may capture and save the images in the memory 118 for being rendered on the display unit 108. In another example, the images may be directly rendered on the display unit 108. In yet another example, the images may be stored in the memory 118 and also rendered in real time on the display unit 108. Further, the magnification control interface 114 may be used by the operator to adjust magnification of the images of the cervix being captured by the visualization unit 106 to clearly view the area of the cervix being examined. The magnification control interface 114 may zoom in/zoom out the images and may also adjust focus for an image. In one example, the operator may magnify the images in real time while visualizing the cervix. Examples of the magnification control interface 114 may include, but are not limited to, one or more buttons to zoom in/zoom out, a roller that may be rolled or scrolled to zoom in/zoom out, and a joystick. In one example, the magnification control interface 114 may be mounted on the main body 104 of the device 102. In another example, the magnification control interface 114 may be mounted on any part of the device 102.

[0026] The illumination unit 110 may be provided to illuminate the cervix area of the patient by providing different color/light settings/patterns to enhance the visualization process. In one example, the illumination unit 110 may be mounted on the main body 104 and electrically coupled with the control unit 116. The illumination unit 110 may allow the operator to change light settings/colors/patterns. In case the operator wishes to change the light settings during the visualization process, the operator may adjust the illumination with the help of the illumination unit 110. Examples of the illumination unit 110 may include, but are not limited to, lasers, halogens, and LEDs. In one example, the illumination unit 110 may include a white light or a green light source. In another example, the illumination unit 110 may include both green and white light source. Further, the operator may control the illumination unit 110 using the user interface 120.

[0027] The display unit 108 may receive and render the images being captured by the visualization unit 106 to enable the operator to identify tissue abnormalities in the cervix. The operator may then adopt necessary steps for ablating one or more areas of the cervical tissues having the tissue abnormalities, as discussed below in detail. In one example, the visualization unit 106 and the display unit 108 may be communicatively coupled with the control unit 116. The control unit 116 may receive the images from the visualization unit 106 and share the images with the display unit 108 for being displayed. In another example, the control unit 116 may store the images received from the visualization unit 106 in the memory 118. The display unit may then access the memory 118 to receive the images and render the images on a screen of the display unit 108. In one example, the display unit 108 may be mounted on the main body 104 of the device 102. In another example, the display unit 108 may be wired/wirelessly coupled externally to the device 102. Further, the operator may use the magnification control interface 114 to magnify the images for a detailed and careful examination of the cervix tissues captured in the images. In one example, the operator may magnify the images in real time while visualizing the cervix. As previously defined, the images may include still images and videos.

[0028] Further, the ablation unit 112 may be provided to ablate one or more areas of cervical tissues having the tissue abnormalities, such as lesions in the cervix. In one example, the ablation unit 112 may be detachably attached to the main body 104 of the device 102. Once attached, the ablation unit 112 may be communicatively and electrically coupled with the control unit 116 of the main body 104. In one example, the main body 104 may include a first connector (not shown in this figure). The ablation unit 112 may further include a probe (not shown in this figure) having a connecting end to detachably couple the ablation unit 112 to the first connector of the main body 104. The probe may further include a probe tip end to be inserted inside a vaginal canal of the body to be in proximity with the cervix to ablate the one or more areas of cervical tissues. In one example, the probe tip end may include a heating element to ablate the one or more tissues.

[0029] After connecting the ablation unit 112 to the main body 104 of the device 102, the operator may input information about the ablation process. The operator may interact with the user interface 120 to input information about the ablation process. In an example, the user interface 120 may be mounted on the display unit 108. In another example, the user interface 120 may be mounted on the main body 104. Examples of the user interface 120 may include, but are not limited to, one or more physical buttons and a touch screen interface. The user interface 120 may be electrically and communicatively coupled with the control unit 116 of the device 102. In one example, the information may include ablation data having details, such as, an operational time, i.e., duration for which the ablation is to be performed and an operational temperature, i.e., heating temperature to be maintained by the heating element to generate heat for the ablation. [0030] Subsequently, the control unit 116 may initiate the ablation unit 112 to ablate the one or more areas of cervical tissues identified with tissue abnormalities, in response to the user inputs, such as the ablation data. In one example, the ablation may be carried out at a whole layer of cervical tissues at the surface of the cervix. Upon initiation, the heating element of the ablation unit 112 may generate heat at a predetermined temperature as provided in the ablation data. In one example, the probe tip end may be heated in a range of 80 to 140 degree Celsius. In another example, the probe tip end may be heated in a range of 110 to 140 degree Celsius. Once the operational time for which the ablation should last, has lapsed the heating element may stop generating heat and the operator may terminate the ablation process and retract the device 102 out of the vaginal canal. In one example, the control unit 116 may stop the heating element after the operational time has lapsed. In another example, the heating element may automatically stop after the operational time has lapsed. In another example, the operator may stop the heating element, through the user interface 120, once a required depth of necrosis has been achieved.

[0031] Further, a temperature sensor of the ablation unit 112 may sense a current temperature of the heating element to provide a feedback to the control unit 116. In case, the current temperature of the heating element increases beyond safe operating range, the control unit 116 may decrease the operating temperature of the heating element to reduce the temperature of the heat generated by the heating element.

[0032] The main body 104 may further include the power supply unit 122 that may be electrically coupled with the visualization unit 106, the display unit 108, the illumination unit 110, the ablation unit 112, the magnification control interface 114, the control unit 116, the memory 118, and the user interface 120 to supply electrical power for functioning of the device 102. In one example, the power supply unit 122 may be electrically connected to external power supply sources to receive electrical power. In another example, the power supply unit 122 may be electrically coupled with a battery that may be housed inside the device 102 to receive electrical power. The battery may be rechargeable or replaceable.

[0033] Figure 2A illustrates the device 102 for detecting and treating tissue abnormalities in the cervix, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter. As previously explained, the device 102 may be used by an operator, interchangeably referred as a user, to examine and treat one or more areas of cervical tissues having tissue abnormalities. As discussed previously, the device 102 may include the main body 104 housing the control unit 116, the memory 118, the user interface 120, and the power supply unit 122.

[0034] In one example, the control unit 116 may control the functioning of the device 102, as discussed below in more detail. Examples of the control unit 116 may include, but are not limited to, a processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a microcontroller, a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) including one or more Integrated Circuits (ICs), and a System on a Chip (SoC).

[0035] The memory 118 may be used to store one or more instructions or data, such images and ablation data received from an operator or the control unit 116. In one example, the memory 118 may be electrically and communicatively connected to the control unit 116. Examples of the memory 118 may include, but are not limited to, a Read Only Memory (ROM), Random Access Memory (RAM), cache memory, flash memory, erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SDD).

[0036] The user interface 120 may be used to receive inputs from a user, such as the operator, as discussed below in more detail. In one example, the user interface 120 may be mounted on the main body 104 of the device 102. In another example, the user interface 120 may be mounted on the display unit 108. The user interface 120 may be electrically and communicatively coupled to the control unit 116. Examples of the user interface 120 may include, but are not limited to, a touch screen interface and one or more buttons. In another example, the user interface 120 may be located externally and may be wired/wirelessly connected with the control unit 116 of the device 102.

[0037] The device 102 may further include the visualization unit 106, the display unit 108, the illumination unit 110, the ablation unit 112, and the magnification control interface 114. In one example, the visualization unit 106 may be mounted on the main body 104 and may communicatively be coupled with the control unit 116. Also, the visualization unit 106 may be electrically coupled with the power supply unit 122 of the device 102 to receive electrical power. The visualization unit 106 may enable capturing and rendering of images of a cervix on a display unit, such as the display unit 108, to allow real time examination and identification of tissue abnormalities in the cervix. Examples of tissue abnormalities may include, but are not limited to, precancerous lesions, cervicitis, cervical ectopy, genital warts, malignant/non-malignant changes in the cervix, and cervical cancer. Example of the images include, but are not limited to, still images, motion images forming a video, and burst images. In another example, the visualization unit 106 may capture and render images in real-time, as still images or motion images forming a live video stream on the display unit 108. To use the device 102 for the diagnosis, the operator may initially align the device 102 in an axis corresponding to the cervix of a patient to analyze and identify tissue abnormalities in the cervix. In one example, a speculum may be initially inserted into the vagina to widen the opening of the vagina. Once the vaginal opening is wide open, the operator may align the visualization unit 106 in an axis corresponding to the cervix. The operator may hold the device 102 using a hand grip 202 to adjust the alignment of the device to obtain required visualization of the cervix. The hand grip 202 may be a handle attached to the main body 104 to enable the operator to hold the device 102. In another example, the hand grip 202 may be a rod-like structure that may be hand-held by the user to hold the device 102. The operator may initiate the visualization process and examine the one or more tissues of the cervix for any tissue abnormality.

[0038] The illumination unit 110 may be mounted on the main body 104 and electrically coupled with the power supply unit 122. The illumination unit 110 may be used to illuminate the vaginal canal and the cervix of the patient by providing light to area under examination to enhance the visualization process. For example, the illumination unit 110 may provide different color, light settings, and patterns of light to illuminate the cervix area of the patient. In case the operator wishes to change light settings during the visualization process, the operator may adjust the illumination with the help of the illumination unit 110. The illumination unit 110 may be controlled by the operator. In one example, the illumination unit 110 may be communicatively coupled with the control unit 116 and the operator may use the user interface 120 to share instructions, for example, to change light settings, colors, patterns, and intensity of light being provided by the illumination unit 110. Examples of the illumination unit 110 may include, but not limited to, lasers, halogens, and LEDs. In one example, the illumination unit 110 may include a white light or a green light source. In another example, the illumination unit 110 may include both green and white light source.

[0039] The display unit 108 may be mounted on the main body 104 to receive the images being captured by the visualization unit 106. The display unit 108 may render the received images to enable the operator to determine whether the one or more areas of cervical tissues have any tissue abnormalities. In one example, the display unit 108 may be electrically coupled with the power supply unit 122 to receive electrical power. The display unit 108 may further be electrically and communicatively coupled with the control unit 116 to receive the images, instructions, and other data. For example, the control unit 116 may receive the images from the visualization unit 106 and share the images with the display unit 108 for being displayed on a display of the display unit 108. In another example, the control unit 116 may store the images received from the visualization unit 106 in the memory 118. The display unit 108 may access the memory 118 to receive the images and render the images on the display of the display unit 108. [0040] In one example, the images captured and rendered by the visualization unit 106 may be adjusted for enhanced visualization using the magnification control interface 114. In one example, the magnification control interface 114 may be mounted on the main body 104 of the device 102. In another example, the magnification control interface 114 may be mounted on the hand grip 202 for easy interaction by the operator. Further, the magnification control interface 114 may be communicatively coupled with the control unit 116 to control the visualization unit 106 to adjust magnification of the images of the cervix being captured by the visualization unit 106. In one example, the magnification control interface 114 may be used by the operator to adjust magnification of the images of the cervix being captured by the visualization unit 106. The operator may zoom in/zoom out of the images to clearly view the area of the cervix being examined. In another example, the operator may adjust the focus in the images to obtain better images for an area of the cervix. Examples of the magnification control interface 114 may include, but are not limited to, one or more buttons to zoom in/zoom out, a roller that may be rolled or scrolled to zoom in/zoom out, a joystick that may be moved back and forth to zoom in/zoom out in an image, and one or more buttons to adjust focus for an image. [0041] In case the operator determines existence of lesions, the operator may initiate an ablation process to ablate one or more tissues having lesions. To initiate the ablation process, the operator may attach the ablation unit 112 with the device 102. The ablation unit 112 may be provided to ablate one or more tissues having lesions in the cervix. In one example, the ablation unit 112 may be detachably attached to the device 102. For example, the main body 104 of the device 102 may include a first connector 204 to receive the ablation unit 112. In one example, the ablation unit 112 may include a probe 206 having a connecting end 208 and a probe tip end 210. The ablation unit 112 may further include a heating element 212 coupled to the probe tip end 210 to ablate the one or more tissues. The connecting end 208 may detachably couple the ablation unit 112 with the first connector 204 of the main body 104. The connecting end 208 and the first connector 204 may communicatively and electrically couple the ablation unit 112 and the main body 104.

[0042] The ablation unit 112 may kill the abnormal cells/precancerous lesions determined by the operator via transferring a predetermined amount of energy to the infected lesions. For example, the ablation process may include transfer of different forms of energy, for example, thermal, cryogenic, electrical, laser, radio frequency or other forms of energy transfer. In one example implementation, the ablation unit 112 may include different attachments that may be attached to the probe 206 to transfer different forms of energy. For example, the probe 206 may include a Radio Frequency (RF) module to transfer RF energy to perform ablation. In another example, the probe 206 may be attached to a laser to perform ablation.

[0043] In one example, operation of the ablation unit 112 may be controlled by the control unit 116. Once the ablation unit 112 is attached to the main body 104, the operator may input ablation data for carrying out the ablation process. In one example, the ablation data may include details about duration of ablation, temperature to be maintained by the heating element, and amount of heat to be applied. Upon receiving the ablation data from the operator, the control unit 116 may initiate the ablation unit 112 to ablate the one or more tissues identified with lesions. [0044] Initially, before initiating the ablation unit 112, a portion of the ablation unit 112 may be inserted in the vaginal canal. For example, the probe tip end 210 of the probe 206 may be inserted inside the vaginal canal of the patient to be in proximity with the cervix to ablate the one or more areas of the cervical tissues having tissue abnormalities. In one example, a speculum may be used to open an opening of the vagina and insert the ablation unit 112 into the vaginal canal through an opening of the speculum. As the probe tip end 210 is inserted, the heating element 212 may come proximate with the one or more areas of cervical tissues having tissue abnormalities. [0045] Subsequently, the ablation unit 112 may be initiated. The heating element 212 of the ablation unit 112 may start generating heat to attain a temperature as per the ablation data. In one example, the ablation unit 112 may include a temperature sensor 214 that may be thermally coupled with the heating element 212 to measure a current temperature of the heating element 212 to determine heat generated by the heating element 212. The temperature sensor 214 may sense the current temperature of the heat generated by the heating element 212 and provide a feedback to the control unit 116. In case, the current temperature of the heating element 212 increases beyond a safe operating range, the control unit 116 may decrease the operating temperature of the heating element 212 to reduce the temperature of the heat generated by the heating element 212. In another example, upon initiation, the process of ablation may be a time-controlled process. For example, the ablation data may include information indicating duration for which the ablation process may be performed. In one example, the control unit 116 may initiate a timer for monitoring the duration of the ablation process.

[0046] Additionally, the device 102 may further include a second connector 216 for attaching one or more additional attachments for diagnosis and treatment. In one example, a biopsy unit (not shown in this figure) that may be detachably attached with the second connector 216 for diagnosis and treatment, as discussed in more detail below. In one example, the biopsy unit may be attached to the first connector 204 of the device 102. In another example, the first connector 204 and the second connector 216 may be same.

[0047] Figure 2B illustrates a device for detecting and treating tissue abnormalities in the cervix, according to another example implementation of the present subject matter. The operation of the device 102 is similar to the operation explained above and is thus not explained again for the sake of brevity. Figure 2B illustrates another embodiment of the device 102 disclosed in Figure 2A that may further be installed on a support shaft 218. In one example, the support shaft 218 may be a rod-like structure extending in a lateral direction such that the hand grip 202 is pivotally connected to the support shaft 218. The support shaft 218 may include a first end 218-1 that may be connected to a base of the hand grip 202 and a second end 218-2 that may allow the device 102 to rest on a resting surface. In one example, the second end 218-2 that may include a movable base (not shown) that may enable easy movement of the support shaft 218 along with the device 102. In one example, the support shaft 218 may enable the device 102 to attain certain height that may be useful in aligning the device 102 along the axis corresponding to a cervix 220 during diagnosis and treatment process. In one example, the support shaft 218 may provide multiple degrees of freedom to adjust the angle of the device 102 to align the device 102 in an axis corresponding to the cervix 220. In one example, the device 102 may further include a switch (not shown) positioned on the support shaft 218 to power on/off the device 102.

[0048] In one example embodiment, the main body 104 of the device 102 and the support shaft 218 may collectively form a single entity i.e., the main body 104 and the support shaft 218 may be molded into a single structure while manufacturing. In another example, the main body 104 may separately be attached to the support shaft 218.

[0049] Further, as illustrated, the ablation unit 112 may also include a heat shield 222 mounted over the probe tip end 210 to contain heat radiations from spreading over to the vaginal canal. The heat shield 222 may prevent the walls of the vaginal canal from high temperature and accidental or unwanted contact with the heating element 212 that may result in unwanted pain and burns. The heat shield 222 remains in contact with walls of the vaginal canal, thereby protecting the walls of the vagina from heat produced by the heating element 212.

[0050] The heat shield 222 may be rigid or flexible and transparent/translucent/opaque made of biocompatible materials like solid silicone rubber or polymers, for example, polyurethane (PU), Polypropylene (PP), Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and Polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The heat shield 222 may be disposable or reusable.

[0051] Further, while the heat shield 222 has been illustrated in Figure 2B with the support shaft 218, it will be understood by a person skilled in the art, that the heat shield 222 may be provided with the ablation unit 112 in other embodiments of the device 102, without the support shaft 218, such as in the device 102 illustrated in figure 2A.

[0052] Figures 3A and 3B illustrate an ablation unit with a sterile sleeve 302, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter. The operation of the ablation unit 112 is similar to the operation explained above and is thus not explained again for the sake of brevity.

[0053] In one example implementation, the ablation unit 112 may be covered with the sterile sleeve 302 before inserting the ablation unit 112 into the vaginal canal of a patient. The sterile sleeve 302 may be a flexible or rigid sleeve made out of biocompatible materials, for example, silicone rubber and polymers. Examples of the polymers include, but are not limited to, PU, PP, PMMA, PTFE, PES, polyisoprene, and latex. In one example, the sterile sleeve 302 may include a heating element 304 at a distal end 302-1 of the sterile sleeve 302. In one example, the heating element may be same as the heating element 212. In another example, the heating element 304 may be different from the heating element 212. The heating element 304 may come in contact with an electrical contact 306 located on the probe tip end 210 of the probe 206, when the sterile sleeve 302 is rolled over the probe 206. In one example, the sterile sleeve 302 may be locked with the probe 206 using locking pads 308-1 , 308-2, 308-3, and 308-4 to prevent any displacement of the heating element 304 from the electrical contact 306. The locking pads 308-1 , 308-2, 308-3, and 308-4, hereinafter referred to as locking pads 308, may ensure that the heating element 304 of the sterile sleeve 302 may remain in position when the probe 206 is inserted in the vaginal canal. In one example, the heating element 304 may be locked with the probe 206 by inserting the locking pads 308 into grooves formed on one side of the heating element 304.

[0054] In operation, the ablation unit 112 may be covered with the sterile sleeve 302 before inserting the ablation unit 112 into the vaginal canal of the patient. Further, the sterile sleeve 302 may be changed for every patient before performing the ablation process. Thus, only the sterile sleeve 302 may be changed after each use, as a result saving time and cost for the operator. Further, there would be no requirement for changing the probe 206 or the ablation unit 112 for every patient, thus, providing a cost-effective approach for treatment and diagnosis. Also, since the entire probe 206 will not have to be disinfected before and after use, the operator may not have to carry chemicals and other agents for sterilizing the probe 206. The device 102 may thus be easily carried with multiple sterile sleeves 302, thereby, ensuing portability while maintaining hygiene and safety at the same time.

[0055] Figures 4A and 4B illustrate the device 102 in operation for detecting and treating lesions in the cervix 220, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter. As illustrated and previously described, the device 102 includes the main body 104, the visualization unit 106, the display unit 108, the illumination unit 110, the ablation unit 112, the magnification control interface 114, and the user interface 120. The device 102 further includes the ablation unit 112 detachably attached to the main body 104.

[0056] In one example, Figure 4A illustrates the device 102 in an example operational stage for analyzing the cervix 220 of a patient to determine existence of tissue abnormalities in the cervix 220. In an example implementation, in order to examine the cervix 220, a speculum 402 may be initially inserted into a vagina to widen the opening of the vagina. The speculum 402 may help widening the opening of the vagina and maintain the opening until the treatment and diagnosis process is completed. Once the vaginal opening is wide open, an operator may align the visualization unit 106 of the device 102 in an axis corresponding to the cervix 220. In one example, the cervix 220 of the patient may be pre treated for preparing the cervix 220 for diagnosis and treatment. For example, the cervix 220 may be cleaned with saline solution, acetic acid/lugol’s iodine may be applied for staining. After preparing the cervix 220, the operator may initiate the visualization process and examine the one or more tissues of the cervix 220 for any tissue abnormalities. In order to get a better view of the cervix 220, the operator may adjust the height of the device 102 or change the illumination settings via the illumination unit 110, as discussed above.

[0057] As discussed previously, the images captured by the visualization unit 106 may be rendered on the display unit 108. The images may include, but are not limited to, still images, motion images forming a video, and burst images. The operator may analyze the images on the display unit 108 to determine one or more areas of cervical tissues having tissue abnormalities. If the operator is able to identify presence of tissue abnormalities in the cervix 220, the operator may then attach the ablation unit 112 to the device 102, as illustrated in Figure 4B.

[0058] Once attached, the ablation unit 112 may communicatively and electrically couple with the control unit 116 of the main body 104. After connecting the ablation unit 112 to the main body 104, the operator may insert the ablation unit 112 into the vaginal canal, through an opening of the speculum 402. The speculum 402 may provide a safe passage to the cervix 220 for the ablation unit 112, through the vaginal canal. The speculum 402 may provide a wider passage to the ablation unit 112 which may reduce chance of accidental contact between the heating element 212 and the walls of vaginal canal. In one example, the operator may be provided visual guidance about the ablation process using the display unit 108, thus, ensuring added safety and efficacy. Further, the operator may input the ablation data having details of the operational time and the operational temperature to perform the ablation. As previously discussed, the control unit 116 may receive the ablation data and initiate the ablation unit 112 to ablate the one or more areas of cervical tissues identified with tissue abnormalities. Upon initiation, the heating element 212 of the ablation unit 112 may generate heat at a predetermined temperature as provided in the ablation data.

[0059] In another example, the ablation unit 112 may be first initiated for heating the heating element 212 to attain the operational temperature defined in the ablation data. The control unit 116 may receive information from the temperature sensor 214 to determine whether the heating element 212 has attained a desired temperature, i.e., either the operational temperature defined in the ablation data or a temperature lesser than the operational temperature to reduce time required by the heating element 212 to attain the operational temperature inside the vaginal opening. After attaining the operational temperature, the control unit 116 may send an indication to be displayed on the display unit 108. Examples of such indications may include, but are not limited to, an audio message, a text message, a notification, and a tactile feedback. The indication may inform the operator that the heating element 212 has attained the operation temperature. The operator may then insert the ablation unit 112 in the vaginal canal through the opening of the speculum 402 for performing ablation of the one or more areas of cervical tissues having tissue abnormalities.

[0060] Once the operational time, for which the ablation should last, has lapsed, the heating element 212 may stop generating heat and the operator may terminate the ablation process of treating the cervical tissues. The operator may then retract the device 102 out of the vaginal canal and through the opening of the speculum 402. In one example, further images of the treated cervix may be captured by the visualization unit 106 to analyse the result of the treatment and may be used for generating reports through the device 102 itself which may be printed via WiFi/Bluetooth.

[0061] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate operational stages 502 and 504 of a biopsy unit of the device 102, according to another example implementation of the present subject matter. As illustrated and previously described, the device 102 includes the main body 104, the visualization unit 106, the display unit 108, the illumination unit 110, the ablation unit 112, the magnification control interface 114, and the user interface 120. The device 102 further includes a biopsy unit 506 detachably attached to the main body 104 for sampling at least a portion of the one or more tissues having one or more lesions. In one example, the biopsy unit 506 may be used after obtaining the images from the visualization unit 106 for a further, detailed examination of the one or more areas of cervical tissues having tissue abnormalities. For example, the biopsy unit 506 may be used for taking samples for histopathology. The biopsy unit 506 may also be used after the ablation for examining the cervical tissues to confirm that the tissues with abnormalities have been treated.

[0062] In one example, the biopsy unit 506 may include a central shaft 508, a trigger 510, an outer shaft 512, and a base portion 514. The outer shaft 512 and the central shaft 508 are concentric cylinders with the outer shaft 512 covering the central shaft 508. A proximate end 516 of the central shaft 508 is connected to the base portion 514. The central shaft further includes a plurality of blades 518-1 ,.., 518-N hereinafter collectively referred to as blades 518, at a distal end 520 to sample the portion of the cervix. While the Figures 5A and 5B illustrate two blades 518-1 and 518-2, the blades 518 may include multiple blades similar to blades 518-1. The blades 518 may be made of sharp biocompatible metal or plastic. In one example, the blades 518 may be used to provide a clean conical cut into the tissue of the cervix that are required to be sampled. The biopsy unit 506 may be inserted into the vaginal canal and the blades 518 may come in contact with the cervical tissue that needs to be sampled. The central shaft 508 further includes an external threading portion 522 proximate to the distal end 520.

[0063] The outer shaft 512 is connected to the trigger 510 at a first shaft end 524 such that the outer shaft 512 is concentric to the central shaft 508. In one example, the outer shaft 512 is provided with internal threading portion 526, proximate to a second shaft end 528, to align with the external threading portion 522 of the central shaft 508 to allow the outer shaft 512 to move back and forth over the central shaft 508. As illustrated, the outer shaft 512 is concentrically positioned over the central shaft 508 such that in a forward motion, during an operational mode, the second shaft end 528 of the outer shaft 512 slides over the blades 518 to press the blades 518.

[0064] The trigger 510 is connected to the outer shaft 512 to move the outer shafts back and forth over the central shaft 508 to engage the blades 518 to sample the portion of the cervix.

[0065] In operation, the biopsy unit 506 may be attached to the main body 104 of the device 102. In one example, the biopsy unit 506 may be detachably attached to the second connector 216 of the main body 104. In another example, the biopsy unit 506 may be detachably attached to the first connector 204. The biopsy unit 506 may be inserted in the second connector 216 for connecting the biopsy unit 506 with the main body 104. For example, the biopsy unit 506 may be attached to the second connector 216 using a simple mechanical means, such as a push and twist lock to position the biopsy unit 506 in the second connector 216 for operation. In another example, the biopsy unit 506 may be attached with the main body 104 by a Velcro. In yet another example, the biopsy unit 506 may be attached using one or more screws.

[0066] After attaching the biopsy unit 506, the biopsy unit 506 may be inserted into the vaginal canal of the patient. In one example, the speculum 402 may be first used to widen the opening of the vagina. Once the opening is sufficiently wide, the operator may insert the biopsy unit 506 into the vaginal canal. The biopsy unit 506 may provide diagnosis and treatment capability to the device 102. In one example, the biopsy unit 506 may be used for sampling at least a portion of the one or more cervical tissues having tissue abnormalities. For example, the biopsy unit 506 may be used after obtaining the images from the visualization unit 106 for a further detailed examination of the one or more areas of cervical tissues. For example, the biopsy unit 506 may be used for taking samples for histopathology. In another example, the biopsy unit 506 may also be used after the ablation for examining the cervical tissues to confirm that the tissues having abnormalities have been treated.

[0067] When the biopsy unit 506 is inserted into the vaginal canal, the blades 518 located in front of the biopsy unit 506, may come in contact with one or more areas of cervical tissues that are required to be ablated or sampled. As the blades 518 press into the cervical tissues, a pressure is applied on the central shaft 508 owing to which the central shaft 508 rotates along the external threading portion 522. The external threading portion 522 may rotate along the internal threading portion 526 located at the second shaft ends 528. As a result, the blades 518 come closer and cut into the cervical tissues.

[0068] Further, the trigger 510 may be engaged to move the outer shaft 512 back and forth over the central shaft 508 to engage the blades 518, as illustrated in Figure 5B. For example, when the trigger 510 is pressed, the outer shaft 512 moves further forward on the internal threading portion 526 and along with the external threading portion 522 of the central shaft 508. As the outer shaft 512 moves forward, the second shaft end 528 may overlap the blades 518, thus pressing the blades 518 to be in a closed position, as illustrated in Figure 5B. Thus, when the trigger 510 is pressed, the outer shaft 512 moves forward and presses the blades 518 inwards to obtain a clean conical cut into the cervical tissues. The biopsy unit 506 may then be retracted from the vaginal canal of the patient. In one example, the obtained cervical tissues may then be used for diagnosis and to identify existence of tissue abnormalities, such as lesions. In another example, the biopsy unit 506 be used for ablation of one or more areas of cervical tissues having tissue abnormalities. In another example, the biopsy unit 506 may also be used after the ablation for examining the cervical tissues to confirm that the tissue abnormalities have been treated. The biopsy unit 506 may thus provide an integrated approach for diagnosis and treatment in a single device, such as the device 102.

[0069] Figure 6 illustrates a method for detecting and treating tissue abnormalities in the cervix, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter. The order in which the method is described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described method blocks may be combined in any order to implement the methods, or an alternative method. Furthermore, the method 600 may be implemented by processing resource(s) or computing device(s) through any suitable hardware, non-transitory machine readable instructions, or combination thereof. It may also be understood that the method 600 may be performed by programmed devices, such as the device 102 as depicted in Figures 1-5. Furthermore, the method 600 may be executed based on instructions stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium, as will be readily understood. The non-transitory computer readable medium may include, for example, digital memories, magnetic storage media, such as one or more magnetic disks and magnetic tapes, hard drives, or optically readable digital data storage media. The method 600 is described below with reference to the device 102 as described above. Other suitable systems for the execution of the process may also be utilized. Additionally, implementation of the method is not limited to such examples.

[0070] At step 602, the cervix of the patient is pre-treated to prepare the cervix for the diagnosis/treatment. In an example, an operator may pre-treat the cervix before stating the visualization process. For example, the operator may initially insert a speculum into the vagina to widen the opening of the vagina canal. The operator may then clean the cervix with saline solution and apply acetic acid/lugol’s iodine for staining. The operator may then start analyzing the cervix on the device for diagnosis and treatment.

[0071] In another example, the operator may initialize the visualization process and then clean the cervix with saline solution and apply a solution of acetic acid/lugol’s iodine for clear visualization of the cervical tissues.

[0072] At step 604, the operator may position the device to capture and render the images of the cervix of a patient on a display unit. In an example, the operator may align the visualization unit of the device in an axis corresponding to the cervix. Upon alignment, the operator may initiate the visualization unit to examine the cells of the cervix for any precancerous lesions that are displayed on the display unit. In one example, the visualization unit may capture and save the images in the memory for being rendered on the display unit. In another example, the images may be directly rendered on the display unit. In another example, the images may be stored in the memory and also rendered in real time on the display unit. In order to get a better view of cervix, the operator may adjust the magnification of the image via the magnification control interface or change the illumination settings via the illumination unit. In one example, the magnification control interface may allow the operator to zoom in/zoom the images and also adjust the focus for an image. The illumination unit may allow the operator to change light setti n g s/co lo rs/patte rn s .

[0073] At step 606, an ablation unit is attached to a main body of the device. In one example, the ablation unit may include a probe having a connecting end to detachably couple the ablation unit 112 to the main body 104. The probe may further include a probe tip end to be inserted inside a vaginal canal of the body to be in proximity with the cervix to ablate the tissues. The probe tip end may receive a heating element to ablate the one or more tissues. [0074] At step 608, the device 102 may be positioned to initiate ablation. In one example, the operator may align the probe tip end of the ablation unit in an axis corresponding to the cervix.

[0075] At step 610, the ablation unit may be initiated to ablate one or more tissues having lesions in the cervix. In one example, the ablation unit may be initiated in response to user input for initiating the ablation. The user, such as the operator, may provide user inputs using the user interface of the device. In one example, ablation may be carried out at a whole layer of tissues at the surface of the cervix. In another example, ablation may be carried out at specific areas of the cervix. Upon initiation, the heating element of the ablation unit may generate heat at a predetermined temperature as provided in the ablation data. In one example, the probe tip may be heated in a range of 80 to 140 degree Celsius. In another example, the probe tip may be heated in a range of 110 to 140 degree Celsius. Once the operational time for which the ablation should last, has lapsed the heating element may stop generating heat and the operator may terminate the ablation process and again retract the device out of the vaginal canal. In one example, the control unit may stop the heating element after the operational time has lapsed. In another example, the heating element may automatically stop after the operational time has lapsed. In another example, the operate may stop the heating element, through the user interface and the control unit, once a required depth of necrosis has been achieved.

[0076] Although examples for the present subject matter have been described in language specific to structural features and/or methods, it should be understood that the appended claims are not limited to the specific features or methods described. Rather, the specific features and methods are disclosed and explained as examples of the present subject matter.

Claims

I/We claim:

1 . A device (102) comprising: a main body (104); a visualization unit (106) mounted on the main body (104) to capture and render images of cervix (220) of a patient on a display unit (108) to allow real time identification of tissue abnormalities in the cervix (220); and an ablation unit (112) detachably attached to the main body (104) to ablate one or more areas of cervical tissues having the tissue abnormalities.

2. The device (102) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the main body (104) comprises a control unit (116) to initiate the ablation unit (112) to ablate the one or more areas of cervical tissues having the tissue abnormalities, in response to user input for initiating the ablation.

3. The device (102) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the ablation unit (112) comprises: a probe (206) comprising: a connecting end (208) to detachably couple the ablation unit (112) with a first connector (204) of the main body (104), wherein the connecting end (208) and the first connector (204) communicatively and electrically couple the ablation unit (112) and the main body (104); and a probe tip end (210) to receive a heating element (212) to ablate the one or more tissues, wherein the probe tip end (210) is to be inserted inside a vaginal canal of a body to be in proximity with the cervix (220); and a temperature sensor (214) coupled to the probe tip end (210) to: sense a current temperature of the heating element (212); and provide the current temperature to the control unit (116) to control an operating temperature of the heating element (212).

4. The device (102) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the ablation unit (112) comprises the heating element (212) coupled to the probe tip end (210) to generate heat at a predetermined temperature to ablate the one or more areas of cervical tissues having the tissue abnormalities.

5. The device (102) as claimed in claim 4, comprising a user interface (120) to receive ablation data from a user, wherein the ablation data includes operational time indicating duration of ablation and operational temperature to be maintained by the heating element (212).

6. The device (102) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the ablation unit (112) comprises a sterile sleeve (302) having the heating element (212) on a distal end (302-1 ) of the sterile sleeve (302), wherein the sterile sleeve (302) is to roll over the probe (206) to cover the probe, the probe tip end (210), and the temperature sensor (214), and wherein the heating element (212) is to electrically couple with the probe tip end (210).

7. The device (102) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the ablation unit (102) comprises a heat shield (222) to be mounted over the probe tip end (210) to contain heat radiations from spreading over to the vaginal canal.

8. The device (102) as claimed in claim 1 , comprising a biopsy unit (506) detachably attached to the main body (104) for sampling at least a portion of the one or more areas of cervical tissues having the tissue abnormalities, wherein the biopsy unit (506) comprises: a central shaft (508) having blades (518) at a distal end (520) to sample the portion of the cervix (220), wherein the central shaft (508) has an external threading portion (522) proximate to the distal end (520); outer shafts (512) having internal threading portion (526) to align with the external threading portion (522) of the central shaft (508) to allow the outer shafts (512) to move back and forth over the central shaft (508); and a trigger (510) connected to the outer shafts (512) to move the outer shafts (512) back and forth over the central shaft (508) to engage the blades (518) to sample the portion of the cervix (220).

9. The device (102) as claimed in claim 1, comprising an illumination unit (110) mounted on the main body (104) to illuminate at least a portion of the cervix (220).

10. The device (102) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the visualization unit (106) comprises at least one of a lens, a combination of lens, a camera, and a combination thereof.

11. The device (102) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the main body (104) comprises a magnification control interface (114) to allow a user to control the visualization unit (106) to adjust magnification of the images of the cervix (220) being captured by the visualization unit (106).

12. The device (102) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the display unit (108) is mounted on the main body (104) to display the image of the cervix (220) captured by the visualization unit (106).

13. The device (102) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the main body (104) comprises a memory (118) to store the images of the cervix (220) captured by the visualization unit (106).

14. The device (102) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the main body (104) is attached to a hand grip (202) enabling an operator to hold the device (102).

15. The device (102) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the hand grip (202) is pivotally connected to a support shaft (218).

16. A method comprising: capturing and rendering images, by a visualization unit (106) mounted on a main body (104), of a cervix (220) of a patient on a display unit (108) to allow real time identification of tissue abnormalities in the cervix (220); and ablating, by an ablation unit (112) detachably coupled to the main body (104), one or more areas of cervical tissues having the tissue abnormalities.

17. The method as claimed in claim 16, comprising initiating the ablation unit (112) to ablate the one or more areas of cervical tissues having the tissue abnormalities in response to user input for initiating the ablation.

18. The method as claimed in claim 17, wherein initiating the ablation unit (112) comprises: initiating heating of a heating element (212), coupled to a probe tip end (210) of a probe (206) of the ablation unit (112), to generate heat at a predetermined temperature to ablate the one or more areas of cervical tissues having the tissue abnormalities.