| abstract |
A radiofrequency treatment device of the present invention includes one or two radio frequency electrode holders (42) each having multiple electrodes (44) arranged to create a transmural lesion through tissue. The treatment device is placed with one holder (42) on the endocardial surface of the heart and the other optional holder placed on the epicardial surface of the heart to form a bipolar arrangement of equally spaced parallel tissue penetrating electrodes. The invention creates a transmural lesion in heart tissue to treat atrial fibrillation by blocking passage of abnormal electrical currents through the heart tissue. The devices may also be used to apply other types of energy, including cryo, ultrasound, microwave, heat, or other electrical means of providing an interruption in abnormal electrical circuits. |