| abstract |
The present invention is systems, and methods for ablating motor nerve tissue by inserting an operative element (28) connectible to an ablation energy generator (40) into a defined percutaneous tissue region. The systems and methods apply stimulant energy in the defined percutaneous tissue region to stimulate targeted motor nerve tissue prior to ablation by the operative element. Application of the nerve ablation energy can permanently eliminate the function of a targeted motor nerve branch, to thereby inactivate a selected muscle. The muscle inactivation may, e.g., treat dystonia, other hyper-function neuromuscular dysfunctions in the face, the neck such as torticollis, blepharospasm, and uncontrolled grimacing. The muscle inactivation may also provide cosmetic results to eliminate or prevent aesthetically displeasing skin furrows, frowning, wrinkles, or neck bands, which can arise from normal muscle contraction or prolonged exposure of the face to the sun. |