Apparatus And Method For Treating Rhinitis

Abstract

Devices and methods for treating rhinitis are described where the devices are configured to ablate a single nerve branch or multiple nerve branches of the posterior nasal nerves located within the nasal cavity. A surgical probe may be inserted into the sub-mucosal space of a lateral nasal wall and advanced towards a posterior nasal nerve associated with a middle nasal turbinate or an inferior nasal turbinate into a position proximate to the posterior nasal nerve where neuroablation of the posterior nasal nerve may be performed with the surgical probe. The probe device may utilize a visible light beacon that provides trans-illumination of the sub-mucosal tissue or an expandable structure disposed in the vicinity of the distal end of the probe shaft to enable the surgeon to visualize the sub-mucosal position of the distal end of the surgical probe from inside the nasal cavity using, e.g., an endoscope.

Claims

1. A surgical probe for treating rhinitis of a patient, the surgical probe comprising: a surgical probe shaft having an elongated hollow structure with a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the surgical probe shaft is sized for insertion into and advancement within a sub-mucosal space of a lateral nasal wall from within a nasal cavity of the patient; a handle coupled to the proximal end to facilitate handling and positioning of the surgical probe shaft within the nasal cavity; a position indicator disposed in a vicinity of the distal end of the surgical probe shaft to facilitate visual tracking of a position of the distal end of the surgical probe shaft within the sub-mucosal space of the lateral nasal wall; and a neuroablation implement coupled to the distal end of the surgical probe shaft configured to ablate at least one nasal nerve to reduce at least one symptom of rhinitis.

2. The surgical probe of claim 1, wherein the position indicator comprises an optical beacon configured to trans-illuminate the optical beacon through a mucosa of the patient to visually track the position of the distal end of the surgical probe while the distal end of the surgical probe shaft is advanced within the lateral nasal wall.

3. The surgical probe of claim 2, wherein a brightness of the optical beacon is adjustable by a brightness adjustment mechanism positioned on the handle.

4. The surgical probe of claim 2, wherein the optical beacon has a wavelength in a green segment of a visible light spectrum.

5. The surgical probe of claim 1, wherein the position indicator comprises an expandable structure, wherein the expandable structure is configured to expand so as to displace mucosal tissue overlying the distal end of the surgical probe shaft to visually track the position of the distal end of the surgical probe shaft while the distal end of the surgical probe shaft is advanced within the lateral nasal wall.

6. The surgical probe of claim 1, wherein the position indicator is proximal the neuroablation element.

7. The surgical probe of claim 1, wherein the position indicator comprises a non-expandable bulbous structure.

8. The surgical probe of claim 1, wherein a distal portion of the surgical probe shaft has a first stiffness, and wherein a proximal portion of the surgical probe shaft has a second stiffness that is greater than the first stiffness.

9. The surgical probe of claim 8, wherein a length of distal portion is approximately 30% to approximately 70% of a length of the surgical probe shaft.

10. The surgical probe of claim 8, wherein the distal portion of the surgical probe shaft has a higher flexibility in a first lateral direction than in a second lateral direction opposite the first lateral direction to facilitate steering of the surgical probe shaft through the sub-mucosal space.

11. The surgical probe of claim 1, wherein the neuroablation implement comprises a tissue freezing mechanism.

12. The surgical probe of claim 11, wherein the tissue freezing mechanism comprises one of a liquid cryogen evaporation chamber, or a gas expansion chamber configured with a Joule-Thompson mechanism.

13. The surgical probe of claim 1, wherein the neuroablation implement comprises a tissue heating and coagulation mechanism.

14. The surgical probe of claim 13, wherein tissue heating and coagulation mechanism comprises a radiofrequency (RF) energy heating element, a microwave energy heating element, an ultrasonic energy heating element, an optical energy heating element, or a resistive heating element.

15. The surgical probe of claim 1, wherein the neuroablation implement comprises a neurolytic solution delivery mechanism.

16. The surgical probe of claim 15, wherein the neurolytic solution delivery mechanism comprises a distal aperture of a fluid channel configured for sub-mucosal delivery of a neurolytic solution.

17. The surgical probe of claim 1, wherein the distal end of the surgical probe shaft includes an ultrasonic Doppler flow sensor or an optical Doppler flow sensor to locate a sphenopalatine artery and vein in order to position the distal end of the surgical probe shaft into an optimal position for sub-mucosal neuroablation.

18. A cryo-surgical probe for treating rhinitis of a patient, the cryo-surgical probe comprising: a surgical probe shaft having an elongated hollow structure with a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the surgical probe shaft is sized for insertion into and advancement within a sub-mucosal space of a lateral nasal wall from within a nasal cavity of the patient; a handle coupled to the proximal end to facilitate handling and positioning of the surgical probe shaft within the nasal cavity; and an expandable membranous structure coupled to the distal end of the surgical probe shaft, wherein the expandable membranous structure is configured to expand via a first fluid so as to displace mucosal tissue overlying the distal end of the surgical probe shaft to visually track the position of the distal end of the surgical probe shaft while the distal end of the surgical probe shaft is advanced within the lateral nasal wall, and wherein the expandable membranous structure is further configured to expand upon evaporation of a cryogenic fluid within the expandable membranous structure to cryogenically ablate at least one nasal nerve to reduce at least one symptom of rhinitis.

19. The cryo-surgical probe of claim 18, further comprising: a first fluid reservoir comprising the first fluid in fluid communication with the expandable membranous structure via a first fluid port; and a second fluid reservoir comprising the cryogenic fluid in fluid communication with the expandable membranous structure via a second fluid port.

20. The cryo-surgical probe of claim 19, wherein the first fluid reservoir and the second fluid reservoir are positioned in the handle.

21. The cryo-surgical probe of claim 18, wherein the first fluid is not a liquid cryogen.

22. The cryo-surgical probe of claim 18, wherein a distal portion of the surgical probe shaft has a first stiffness, and wherein a proximal portion of the surgical probe shaft has a second stiffness that is greater than the first stiffness.

23. The cryo-surgical probe of claim 22, wherein a length of distal portion is approximately 30% to approximately 70% of a length of the surgical probe shaft.

24. The cryo-surgical probe of claim 22, wherein the distal portion of the surgical probe shaft has a higher flexibility in a first lateral direction than in a second lateral direction opposite the first lateral direction to facilitate steering of the surgical probe shaft through the sub-mucosal space.

25. A cryo-surgical probe for treating rhinitis of a patient, the cryo-surgical probe comprising: a surgical probe shaft having an elongated hollow structure with a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the surgical probe shaft is sized for insertion into and advancement within a sub-mucosal space of a lateral nasal wall from within a nasal cavity of the patient; a handle coupled to the proximal end to facilitate handling and positioning of the surgical probe shaft within the nasal cavity; a position indicator disposed in a vicinity of the distal end of the surgical probe shaft to facilitate visual tracking of a position of the distal end of the surgical probe shaft within the sub-mucosal space of the lateral nasal wall; and an expandable membranous structure coupled to the distal end of the surgical probe shaft configured to cryogenically ablate at least one nasal nerve to reduce at least one symptom of rhinitis.

26. The cryo-surgical probe of claim 25, wherein the position indicator comprises an optical beacon configured to trans-illuminate the optical beacon through a mucosa of the patient to visually track the position of the distal end of the surgical probe shaft while the distal end of the surgical probe shaft is advanced within the lateral nasal wall.

27. The cryo-surgical probe of claim 26, wherein a brightness of the optical beacon is adjustable by a brightness adjustment mechanism positioned on the handle.

28. The cryo-surgical probe of claim 26, wherein the optical beacon has a wavelength in a green segment of a visible light spectrum.

29. The cryo-surgical probe of claim 26, further comprising an optical diffuser positioned over the optical beacon and configured to diffuse emitted light in a substantially uniform manner over a spherical arch between about 90 degrees to about 120 degrees.

30. The cryo-surgical probe of claim 25, wherein the position indicator comprises an expandable structure, wherein the expandable structure is configured to expand so as to displace mucosal tissue overlying the distal end of the surgical probe shaft to visually track the position of the distal end of the surgical probe shaft while the distal end of the surgical probe shaft is advanced within the lateral nasal wall.

31. The cryo-surgical probe of claim 25, wherein the position indicator is proximal the expandable membranous structure.

32. The cryo-surgical probe of claim 25, wherein a distal portion of the surgical probe shaft has a first stiffness, and wherein a proximal portion of the surgical probe shaft has a second stiffness that is greater than the first stiffness.

33. The cryo-surgical probe of claim 32, wherein a length of distal portion is approximately 30% to approximately 70% of a length of the surgical probe shaft.

34. The cryo-surgical probe of claim 32, wherein the distal portion of the surgical probe shaft has a higher flexibility in a first lateral direction than in a second lateral direction opposite the first lateral direction to facilitate steering of the surgical probe shaft through the sub-mucosal space.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] FIG. 1 is an internal lateral view of the nasal canal showing the nasal anatomy relevant to this invention, and the targeted region of the lateral nasal wall for neuroablation of posterior nasal nerve function.

[0030] FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic illustrations of a surgical probe configured for sub-mucosal neuroablation of a posterior nasal nerve comprising an optical beacon that functions as an endoscopic visualization aid.

[0031] FIG. 3A is a schematic illustration of a surgical probe configured for sub-mucosal neuroablation of a posterior nasal nerve comprising an expandable structure configured as an endoscopic visualization aid with the expandable structure in its unexpanded state.

[0032] FIG. 3B is a schematic illustration of a surgical probe configured for sub-mucosal neuroablation of a posterior nasal nerve comprising an expandable structure configured as an endoscopic visualization aid with the expandable structure in its expanded state.

[0033] FIG. 4A is a cross sectional schematic illustration of the distal end of a surgical probe comprising an expandable structure configured as an expandable structure in a sub-mucosal position in the surgical plane defined by the bone of the lateral nasal wall and the overlying mucosal, with the expandable structure in its unexpanded state.

[0034] FIG. 4B is a cross sectional schematic illustration of the distal end of a surgical probe comprising an expandable structure configured in a sub-mucosal position in the surgical plane defined by the bone of the lateral nasal wall and the overlying mucosal with the expandable structure in its expanded state.

[0035] FIG. 5A is a cross section schematic illustration of the surgical probe shaft with the distal end partially inserted into the sub mucosal space.

[0036] FIG. 5B is a cross section schematic illustration of the surgical probe shaft being advanced towards the target posterior nasal nerve along the surgical plane defined by the bone of the lateral nasal wall and the overlying mucosa.

[0037] FIG. 5C is a cross sectional illustration of the surgical probe shaft with its distal end positioned proximate to the target posterior nasal nerve.

[0038] FIG. 5D is a cross section schematic illustration of the surgical probe shaft with the distal end coiled within the sub mucosal space.

[0039] FIG. 5E is a top view of the coiled distal end of the shaft shown in FIG. 5D.

[0040] FIG. 6A is a schematic illustration of the distal end of a sub-mucosal neuroablation probe configured for tissue freezing.

[0041] FIG. 6B is a cross section schematic illustration of the sub-mucosal neuroablation probe of FIG. 6A.

[0042] FIG. 7A is a schematic illustration of the distal end of a sub-mucosal neuroablation probe configured for tissue heating by means of a bipolar radiofrequency (RF) energy electrode pair.

[0043] FIG. 7B is schematic end-view illustration of the sub-mucosal neuroablation probe of FIG. 7A.

[0044] FIG. 8A is a schematic illustration of a sub-mucosal neuroablation probe configured for sub-mucosal delivery of a neurolytic solution.

[0045] FIG. 8B is a schematic end-view illustration of the sub-mucosal neuroablation probe of FIG. 8A.

[0046] FIG. 9 is a cross sectional schematic illustration of a sub-mucosal neuroablation probe configured for tissue freezing using an expandable structure as a cryogen evaporation chamber, which also functions as an endoscopic visualization aid.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0047] FIG. 1 depicts an internal view of the nasal cavity showing the nasal anatomy relevant to this invention. Shown for orientation is the lateral nasal wall 14, the nose 1, nostril 2, upper lip 3, sphenopalatine foramen 4, superior nasal turbinate 5, middle nasal turbinate 6, inferior nasal turbinate 7, postnasal nerve 8, greater palatine nerve 9, posterior nerve inferior lateral branch 10, posterior nerve middle lateral branch 11, posterior nerve superior inferior nasal branch 12, and cul de sac 13 defined by the tail of the middle nasal turbinate 6, lateral wall 14, and the inferior turbinate 7. Posterior nasal nerve 8 is within a sheath comprising the sphenopalatine artery and vein, not shown. Posterior nasal nerve branches 10, 11, and 12 are co-sheathed with the corresponding branches of the sphenopalatine artery and vein. Posterior nasal nerve 8 rises through the sphenopalatine foramen 4 along with the sphenopalatine artery and vein and remain, along with its branches 10, 11, and 12 between approximately 1 mm to 4 mm below the surface of the nasal mucosa. The posterior nasal nerve 8 or its branches 10, 11 and 12 are targets for sub-mucosal functional neuroablation for the treatment of rhinitis according to this invention.

[0048] FIG. 2A is a schematic illustration of sub-mucosal neuroablation probe 15. Sub-mucosal neuroablation probe 15 is a generic representation of multiple embodiments of this invention. Sub-mucosal neuroablation probe 15 comprises surgical probe shaft 16, and surgical hand piece 17. Surgical probe shaft 16 is a hollow elongated structure with a distal end 18, and a proximal end 19. Surgical hand piece 17 is disposed at the proximal end 19 of surgical probe shaft 16. Surgical probe shaft 16 comprises rigid segment 23, which is proximal to flexible segment 22. A neuroablation implement 21 is disposed near the distal end of flexible segment 22, as shown. Associated with the neuroablation implement 21 is optical beacon 20. Neuroablation implement 21 may be configured for sub-mucosal neuroablation by at least one of the following neuroablation mechanisms: neuroablation by tissue freezing mechanism, neuroablation by tissue heating and coagulation mechanism, or neuroablation by sub-mucosal delivery of a neurolytic solution. The neurolytic solution may comprise a neurotoxic agent, a sympatholytic agent, or a sclerosing agent. A neurotoxic agent may be botulinum toxin, -Bunarotoxin, tetnus toxin, a-Latrotoxin or another neurotoxin. A sympatholytic agent may be Guanethidine, Guanacline, Bretylium Tosylate, or another sympatholytic agent. A sclerosing agent may be ethanol, phenol, a hypertonic solution or another sclerosing agent. For embodiments of the invention that use tissue freezing as a neuroablation means, neuroablation implement 21 represents a liquid cryogen evaporation chamber, or a gas expansion chamber configured with a Joule-Thompson mechanism. For embodiments that utilize tissue heating and coagulation as a neuroablation mechanism, implement 21 may represent a radiofrequency (RF) energy heating element, a microwave energy heating element, an ultrasonic energy heating element, optical energy heating element, or resistive heating element. For embodiments of the invention that utilize sub-mucosal delivery of a neurolytic solution, neuroablation implement 21 may comprise a distal aperture of a fluid channel configured for sub-mucosal delivery of a neurolytic solution.

[0049] Surgical hand piece 17 comprises pistol grip 26, optical beacon brightness control knob 24, neuroablation actuator trigger 25, neuroablation parameter(1) control knob 27, neuroablation parameter(2) control knob 28, finger grip 29, finger barrel 31, and neuroablation actuator button 32. Surgical hand piece 17 may be configured to be held like a piston by the surgeon using pistol grip 26, or the surgeon may hold surgical hand piece 17 like a writing utensil using finger grips 29, with finger grip barrel 31 residing between the thumb and index finger of the surgeon. Surgical hand piece 17 may be configured with neuroablation actuators comprising pistol trigger neuroablation actuator 25, which may be used to actuate and terminate a neuroablation when the surgeon holds the surgical probe 15 using pistol grip 19. Neuroablation actuator button 32 may be used to actuate and terminate a neuroablation when the surgeon holds surgical probe 15 by finger grips 29.

[0050] For embodiments of the invention that utilize tissue freezing as a neuroablation mechanism, surgical hand piece 17 may comprise a liquid cryogen reservoir, not shown, that may be supplied from the factory with liquid cryogen and configured for a single patient use. Alternatively, surgical hand piece 17 may be configured for use with a user replaceable liquid cryogen reservoir in the form of a cartridge. Liquid cryogen cartridges are readily commercially available from many sources. Neuroablation actuator trigger 25, and neuroablation actuator button 32 may be configured as cryogen control actuators. Neuroablation parameter(1) control knob 27 and neuroablation parameter(2) control knob may be configured to control at least one of the following neuroablation parameter: Cryogen flow rate, cryogen flow time, tissue set point temperature, evaporation set point temperature, or an active re-warming temperature or power.

[0051] For embodiments of the invention that utilize tissue heating and coagulation as a neuroablation mechanism, hand piece 17 may comprise an energy generator disposed within, which may be an RF energy generator, a microwave energy generator, an ultrasonic energy generator, an optical energy generator, or an energy generator configured for resistive heating. Neuroablation actuator trigger 25 and neuroablation actuator button 32 may be configured to turn an energy generator on and off. Neuroablation parameter(1) control knob 27, and neuroablation parameter(2) control knob 28 may be configured to control at least one of the following neuroablation parameters: a set point tissue temperature, a heating power, a heating current, a heating voltage, or a heating time.

[0052] There are embodiments where neuroablation actuator trigger 25, neuroablation actuator button 32, neuroablation parameter(1) control knob 27, or neuroablation parameter(2) control knob 28 may be absent. Embodiments that utilize sub-mucosal delivery of a neurolytic solution may not utilize these features.

[0053] Optical beacon 20 is configured as an endoscopic visualization aid. Optical beacon 20 provides trans-illumination of the nasal mucosa and provides the surgeon with an endoscopic determination of the exact position of neuroablation implement 21 within the sub-mucosal space by endoscopic imaging of the surface of the mucosa of the lateral nasal wall. Surgical hand piece 17 comprises a light source, not shown, configured for supplying distal optical beacon 20 light via an optical transmission fiber disposed within probe shaft 16 between the light source and the distal optical beacon 20. Optical beacon brightness control knob 24 is configured for controlling the brightness of optical beacon 24. The light source may be configured to emit light that is in the green segment of the visible optical spectrum, which is strongly absorbed by hemoglobin, and weakly absorbed by connective tissue. The optical beacon is configured for trans-illumination of the nasal mucosa, which is endoscopically observed from inside of the nasal cavity, which provides a visual mechanism for locating the neuroablation implement 21. When optical beacon 20 is placed in close proximity to the sphenopalatine artery and vein, which are co-sheathed the target posterior nasal nerve, the hemoglobin within the artery and vein strongly absorb the green light from optical beacon 20 resulting in an observable dimming of the mucosal trans-illumination.

[0054] FIG. 2B is a schematic illustration of surgical probe shaft 16 taken at section A-A from FIG. 2A. Surgical probe shaft 16 is between approximately, e.g., 1 mm and 4 mm in diameter, and between approximately, e.g., 4 cm and 10 cm in length. The rigid segment 23 of surgical probe shaft 16 may be fabricated from a surgical grade stainless steel hypodermic tube, or may alternatively be fabricated from a polymeric extrusion. Flexible segment 22 of probe shaft 16 may be fabricated as a flat metal wire coil, or may be fabricated as a metal wire reinforced polymeric extrusion. Flexible segment 22 is configured to provide sufficient column strength to transverse the mucosa during insertion into the sub-mucosal space, and to be flexible enough to follow the surgical plane defined by the bone of the lateral nasal wall and the mucosa as the distal end 18 is advanced towards the target posterior nasal nerve 8, or its branches 10, 11, or 12. Flexible segment 22 may have a higher flexibility in one lateral direction than another to facilitate steering through the sub-mucosal space. The length of flexible segment 23 may be approximately 30% to 70% of the length of surgical probe shaft 16. Those skilled in the art of flexible surgical probe shafts are familiar with mechanisms for producing a surgical probe shaft with the characteristics disclosed here within; therefore no further description is warranted.

[0055] FIG. 3A is a schematic illustration of sub-mucosal neuroablation probe 35.

[0056] Sub-mucosal neuroablation probe 35 is an alternative embodiment to sub-mucosal neuroablation probe 15 and uses an expandable structure 40 as an endoscopic visualization aid in lieu of an optical beacon. Sub-mucosal neuroablation probe 35 comprises surgical probe shaft 36, and surgical hand piece 37. Surgical probe shaft 36 is a hollow elongated structure with a distal end 38, and a proximal end 39. Surgical hand piece 37 is disposed at the proximal end 39 of surgical probe shaft 36. Surgical probe shaft 36 comprises rigid segment 43, which is proximal to flexible segment 42. A neuroablation implement 41 is disposed near the distal end of flexible segment 42, as shown. Associated with the neuroablation implement 41 is expandable structure 40. Neuroablation implement 41 may be configured for sub-mucosal neuroablation by at least one of the following neuroablation means: neuroablation by tissue freezing mechanism, neuroablation by tissue heating and coagulation mechanism, or neuroablation by sub-mucosal delivery of a neurolytic solution. The neurolytic agent may be a neurotoxin, a sympatholytic, or a sclerosing agent. For embodiments of the invention that use tissue freezing as a neuroablation mechanism, neuroablation implement 41 represents a liquid cryogen evaporation chamber, or a gas expansion chamber configured with a Joule-Thompson mechanism. For embodiments of the invention that utilize tissue heating and coagulation as a neuroablation mechanism, implement 41 may represent a radiofrequency (RF) energy heating element, a microwave energy heating element, an ultrasonic energy heating element, and optical energy heating element or resistive heating element. For embodiments of the invention that utilize sub-mucosal delivery of a neurolytic solution, neuroablation implement 41 may comprise a distal aperture of a fluid channel configured for sub-mucosal delivery of a neurolytic solution.

[0057] Surgical hand piece 37 comprises pistol grip 44, neuroablation actuator trigger 45, expandable structure inflation/deflation control lever 46, neuroablation parameter(1) control knob 47, neuroablation parameter(2) control knob 48, finger grips 50, finger grip barrel 49, and neuroablation actuator button 52. Surgical hand piece 37 may be configured to be held like a piston by the surgeon using pistol grip 44, or the surgeon may hold surgical hand piece 37 like a writing utensil using finger grips 50, with finger grip barrel 49 residing between the thumb and index finger of the surgeon. Surgical hand piece 37 may be configured with neuroablation actuators comprising pistol trigger neuroablation actuator 45, which may be used to actuate and terminate a neuroablation when the surgeon holds the surgical probe 35 using pistol grip 44. Neuroablation actuator button 52 may be used to actuate and terminate a neuroablation when the surgeon holds surgical probe 35 by finger grips 50.

[0058] For embodiments of the invention that utilize tissue freezing as a neuroablation mechanism, surgical hand piece 37 may comprise a liquid cryogen reservoir, not shown, that may be supplied from the factory with liquid cryogen and configured for a single patient use. Alternatively, surgical hand piece 37 may be configured for use with a user replaceable liquid cryogen reservoir in the form of a cartridge. Liquid cryogen cartridges are readily commercially available from many sources. Neuroablation actuator trigger 45 and neuroablation actuator button may be configured as cryogen control actuators. Neuroablation parameter(1) control knob 47 and neuroablation parameter(2) control knob 48 may be configured to control at least one of the following neuroablation parameters: Cryogen flow rate, cryogen flow time, tissue set point temperature, evaporation set point temperature, or an active re-warming temperature or power.

[0059] For embodiments that utilize tissue heating and coagulation as a neuroablation mechanism, hand piece 37 may comprise an energy generator disposed within, which may be an RF energy generator, a microwave energy generator, an ultrasonic energy generator, an optical energy generator, or an energy generator configured for resistive heating. Neuroablation actuator trigger 45 and neuroablation actuator button 52 may be configured to turn an energy generator on and off. Neuroablation parameter(1) control knob 47, and neuroablation parameter(2) control knob 48 may be configured to control at least one of the following neuroablation parameters: A set point tissue temperature, a heating power, a heating current, a heating voltage, or a heating time.

[0060] There are embodiments where neuroablation actuator trigger 45, neuroablation actuator button 52, neuroablation parameter(1) control knob 47, or neuroablation parameter(2) control knob 48 may absent. Embodiments that utilize sub-mucosal delivery of a neurolytic solution may not utilize these features.

[0061] Expandable structure 40 is disposed in the vicinity of distal end 38, and is proximal to neuroablation implement 41. Expandable structure 40 may be fabricated from an elastomeric material such as silicone rubber, or may be fabricated from a substantially non-elastic material such as PET or polyethylene. During insertion of surgical probe shaft 36 into the sub-mucosal space, expandable structure 40 is in an un-expanded state. To visually identify the location of the distal end 38 of probe shaft 36 by endoscopic observation of the lateral nasal wall 14, expandable structure 40 is expanded as depicted in FIG. 3B. The expanded diameter of expandable structure 40 is between approximately, e.g., 4 mm and 8 mm, and the axial length of expandable structure 40 is between approximately, e.g., 4 mm and 8 mm. The configuration and construction of expandable structure 40 is substantially similar to an occlusion balloon, which is a common surgical instrument. Those skilled in the art of surgical instruments and occlusion balloons are familiar with the means for incorporating and expandable structure as described above; therefore, no further description is warranted. The interior of expandable structure 40 is in fluidic communication with a fluid reservoir, which may be disposed within surgical hand piece 37. Expandable structure 40 is expanded by insertion of fluid from the fluid reservoir into the interior of expandable structure 40 under pressure through fluid port 51. The fluid is removed from the interior of expandable structure 40 under suction, to return expandable structure 40 to its un-expanded state. Inflation/deflation control lever 46 is configured to pressurize and de-pressurize the fluid reservoir within surgical hand piece 37. Alternatively, expandable structure 40 may be configured to be in fluidic communication with a fluid filled syringe, which may be used for inflation and deflation of expandable structure 40.

[0062] FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B are schematic cross sectional illustrations depicting the distal end 38 of surgical probe shaft 36 inserted into the surgical plane between the bone of the lateral nasal wall and the nasal mucosa. FIG. 4A depicts expandable structure 40 in its unexpanded state. FIG. 4B depicts expandable structure 40 in its expanded state, showing the resulting lateral displacement 58 of the nasal mucosal surface 57. The lateral displacement 58 is visually detectable by endoscopic observation, which provides the surgeon with the location of distal end 38 of surgical probe shaft 36 relative to the nasal anatomy.

[0063] FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B and FIG. 5C are cross sectional illustrations depicting the serial insertion of the distal end 18 of surgical probe shaft 16 into the sub-mucosal space 56 (FIG. 5A), and the advancement of distal end 18 of surgical probe shaft 16 towards the target posterior nasal nerve 8 (FIG. 5B), and the positioning of neuroablation implement 21 into position for neuroablation immediately proximate to target posterior nasal nerve 8 (FIG. 5C). FIG. 5A depicts distal end 18 inserted into the nasal mucosal from an insertion point that is anterior to the sphenopalatine foramen 4 and posterior nasal nerve 8. FIG. 5A depicts the insertion of surgical probe shaft 16 to the point where neuroablation implement 21 and optical beacon 20 are in contact with the bone 55 of the lateral nasal wall 14. FIG. 5B depicts the further insertion of surgical probe shaft 16 towards the target posterior nasal nerve 8. The distal end 18 of probe shaft 16 follows the surgical plane 71 defined by the facial boundary between the mucosa 56 and the bone of the lateral nasal wall 14 as shown. The light 30 from optical beacon 20 trans-illuminates the mucosa 56 and can be visualized by endoscopic observation of the mucosal surface 57 providing the surgeon with a precise indication of the position of the distal end 18 of surgical probe 16 relative to the surrounding anatomical landmarks. The shape of distal end 18, and the flex characteristics of flexible segment 22 of probe shaft 16 are optimized to bluntly dissect along surgical plane 71 as distal end is advanced towards target posterior nasal nerve 8, as shown.

[0064] FIG. 5C depicts distal end 18 positioned immediately proximate to target posterior nasal nerve 8, which is co-sheathed with the sphenopalatine artery and vein. As the optical beacon 20 approaches the target posterior nasal nerve 8, the trans-illumination dims as the green light 30 is strongly absorbed by the hemoglobin in the blood flowing through the sphenopalatine artery and vein. In addition, as the optical beacon 20 approaches the target posterior nasal nerve 8, a portion of the light 30 escapes down the sphenopalatine foramen, instead of reflecting off the bone 55 and towards the mucosal surface 57, this contributes to the dimming of the trans-illumination. The surgeon may determine that the distal end 18, and neuroablation implement 21 is in an optimal position for sub-mucosal neuroablation at the location of maximal dimming of the trans-illumination. The ideal zone of effect of neuroablation 69 is depicted as a sphere. The means of neuroablation may be a tissue freezing mechanism, a tissue heating and coagulation mechanism, or by sub-mucosal delivery of a neurolytic solution proximate to the target posterior nasal nerve 8 or its branches 10, 11 or 12. In addition, distal end 18 may comprise an ultrasonic Doppler flow sensor, or an optical Doppler flow sensor to locate the sphenopalatine artery and vein in order to position distal end 18 into an optimal position for sub-mucosal neuroablation.

[0065] While the treatment is performed upon the targeted tissue with the neuroablation mechanism, the mucosa surrounding the region is ideally preserved. Hence, the neuroablation treatment may be controlled, modulated, or limited so as to treat the surrounding tissue immediately around the neuroablation implement 21 to a thickness of, e.g., 50-1000 microns.

[0066] Optionally, a thermally conductive substance such as a gel G may be placed upon the mucosal surface 57 in proximity to the probe shaft where the tissue is treated. The gel G may help to maintain the mucosal temperature near body temperature while the treatment occurs so as to preserve the mucosa. Moreover, the gel G may be deposited prior to or during the treatment by various mechanisms. Additionally, while the mucosal surface 57 directly above the treatment region may be coated with the gel G, other regions of the mucosal surface 57 may also be coated with the gel G as well to facilitate the dissipation of any heat transfer. Gel G can be preheated when a freezing method of ablation is used or pre cooled when a heating method of ablation is used, to more effectively protect the mucosal tissue.

[0067] In yet another embodiment of the neuroablation probe 15, FIG. 5D illustrates a probe 15 having a flexible segment 22 which is sufficiently flexible to coil upon itself when deployed within the tissue. FIG. 5E shows a top view of the flexible segment 22 which may be coiled beneath the mucosal tissue so as to form a planar structure. The neuroablation implement 21 disposed near the distal end of flexible segment 22 may still be positioned in proximity to the targeted tissue but because of the formed planar configuration, the tissue immediately above and below the plane may be appropriate treated.

[0068] FIG. 6A is a schematic illustration of the distal end 74 of surgical probe shaft 75 of sub-mucosal cryoablation probe 73. Sub-mucosal cryoablation probe 73 utilizes a tissue freezing neuroablation mechanism. FIG. 6B is a cross sectional schematic illustration of sub-mucosal cryoablation probe 73 taken at section A-A from FIG. 6A. Cryogen evaporation chamber 76 is disposed on the distal end 74 of flexible segment 90 of surgical probe shaft 75, as shown. Cryogen evaporation chamber 76 comprises evaporator cylinder 91, which is a hollow cylindrical structure that may be fabricated from stainless steel hypodermic tubing, which defines the lateral wall of evaporation chamber 76, and evaporation chamber cap 86, which defines the distal end of evaporation chamber 76. The proximal end of cryogen evaporation chamber 76 is open and in sealed fluidic communication with cryogen exhaust gas pathway 78, which is the central lumen of surgical probe shaft 75. Optical diffuser 80 is disposed at the distal tip of evaporation chamber cap 86 as shown. The distal end of optical fiber 79 is in an optical arrangement with optical diffuser 80 at its distal end, and the source of illumination at its proximal end, which may reside within the surgical hand piece, not shown. Optical diffuser 80 is configured to diffuse emitted light in a substantially uniform manner over a spherical arch between approximately 90 to 120 degrees. Cryogen delivery tube 77 is in fluidic communication with a liquid cryogen source, which may be disposed in the surgical hand piece, and the cryogen evaporation chamber 76, through liquid cryogen metering ports 87. Metering ports 87 are small fenestrations in the wall of liquid cryogen delivery tube 77, and are configured in size and quantity to meter liquid cryogen into the evaporation chamber 76 in a manner that ensures that the rate of liquid cryogen evaporation is sufficient to lower the temperature of the tissue freezing surface 83 sufficiently to freeze a large enough volume of tissue for effective neuroablation. The interior of liquid cryogen evaporation chamber 76 may comprise a liquid absorbing material configured to retain cryogen when in its liquid state, and release cryogen in its gaseous state to prevent liquid cryogen from exhausting down the cryogen gas exhaust path 78. Flexible segment 90 of probe shaft 75 comprises a tightly wound metal wire coil 81 with a major dimension 84 between approximately, e.g., 0.25 mm and 1.5 mm, and a minor dimension 85 between approximately, e.g., 0.10 mm and 0.40 mm. Wire coil 81 is wrapped with a polymeric liner 82 the entire length of flexible segment 90 to maintain wire coil 81 integrity, and to provide a fluid tight wall for the entire length of flexible segment 90. Optical fiber 79 may reside in a coaxial arrangement with liquid cryogen delivery tube 77 as shown, or may reside within cryogen gas exhaust path 78.

[0069] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B are schematic illustrations of the distal end 97 of bipolar RF sub-mucosal neuroablation probe 95, which is configured for sub-mucosal neuroablation by tissue heating and coagulation mechanism. Coagulation RF electrode 100 is disposed on the distal end 97 and surrounds optical beacon 99. Neutral RF electrode 102 is disposed proximal to coagulation RF electrode 100, and is electrically isolated from coagulation RF electrode 100 by electrical isolator 101. Coagulation RF electrode 100 is connected to one pole of an RF energy generator, not shown, with a wire, where the RF energy generator may be disposed within the surgical hand piece, not shown. Neutral RF electrode 102 is connected to the second pole of the RF generator with a wire. The surface area of neutral RF electrode 102 is between approximately, e.g., 3 to 10 times greater than the surface area of the coagulation RF electrode 100. During use RF current flows between coagulation RF electrode 100, and Neutral RF electrode 102, through the tissue contacting the two electrodes 100 and 102. The difference in surface area between the two electrodes 100 and 102 results in a substantially higher RF current density at the surface of the coagulation RF electrode 100, resulting in a concentration of joule effect heating at the surface of the coagulation RF electrode 100. The level of Joule effect heating at the surface of the neutral RF 102 electrode is insufficient to raise the temperature of the contacting tissue to level that result in thermal injury. Other embodiments that utilize a tissue heating and coagulation as a neuroablation mechanism remain within the scope of this invention.

[0070] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are schematic illustrations of the distal end 106 of sub-mucosal neurolytic solution delivery (SMNSD) probe 105, which is configured for sub-mucosal delivery of a neurolytic solution for the treatment of rhinitis. SMNSD probe 105 comprises surgical probe shaft 107, and a surgical probe hand piece not shown. Surgical probe shaft 107 comprises distal end 106 and a proximal end not shown. Distal tip 111 is disposed on the distal end of flexible segment 108. Optical beacon 109 is disposed at the distal end of distal tip 111 as shown and previously described. Distal tip 111 comprises at least one fluid port 110 disposed in the vicinity of the distal end 106 in an arraignment that may be similar to that depicted. At least one fluid port 110 is in fluidic communication with a reservoir, not shown comprising a neurolytic solution. The reservoir may be disposed on or within the surgical hand piece, or may comprise a syringe in fluidic communication with the hand piece and fluid port(s) 110. The surgical hand piece may comprise a means for transferring a portion of the neurolytic solution from the reservoir into the sub-mucosal tissue space about distal tip 111 during use. The neurolytic solution may comprise a neurotoxic agent, a sympatholytic agent, or a sclerosing agent. A neurotoxic agent may be botulinum toxin, -Bunarotoxin, tetnus toxin, -Latrotoxin or another neurotoxin. A sympatholytic agent may be Guanethidine, Guanacline, Bretylium Tosylate, or another sympatholytic agent. A sclerosing agent may be ethanol, phenol, a hypertonic solution or another sclerosing agent. The neurolytic solution may have a low viscosity similar to water, or neurolytic solution may have a high viscosity and be in the form of a gel. The gel functions to prevent migration of the neurolytic solution from the target space.

[0071] FIG. 9 is a cross sectional schematic illustration of the distal end of generic sub-mucosal neuroablation probe 115 comprising a neuroablation implement comprising an expandable evaporation chamber 120 configured for tissue freezing, which also functions as an expandable endoscopic visual aid. Depicted is the distal end of probe shaft 116, wire coil structure 117, end cap 118, liquid cryogen supply line 119, expandable membranous structure 120, in its expanded state, ostium 121, adhesive bond 122 between ostium 121 and probe shaft 116, cryogen gas exhaust vent 123, exhaust gas flow path 124, pressure bulkhead 125, liquid cryogen evaporation chamber 126, and liquid cryogen 127. Liquid cryogen chamber 128 is defined by spring coil 117, end cap 118, and pressure bulkhead 125. Liquid cryogen 127 enters liquid cryogen chamber 128 through liquid cryogen supply line 119, and through liquid cryogen ports 129. Wire coil 117 is configured to meter liquid cryogen 127 from liquid cryogen chamber 128 into liquid cryogen evaporation chamber 126 in a manner that sprays liquid cryogen 127 in the direction of interior surface 130 of expandable membranous structure 120 so that the liquid cryogen rapidly evaporates upon contact with inner surface 130. A perforated polymeric liner, not shown, disposed upon wire coil 117 may be used to provide proper metering and spatial distribution of liquid cryogen 127. Sub-mucosal neuroablation probe 115 is configured so expandable membranous structure 120 expands to a predetermined size and shape in response to liquid cryogen evaporation within. Sub-mucosal neuroablation probe 115 is also configured with a means for the user to expand the membranous structure 120 independently from liquid cryogen 127 evaporation in a manner that allows the expandable membranous structure 120 to function as an endoscopic visualization aid as previously described. Sub-mucosal neuroablation probe 115 is configured such that the outer surface of expandable membranous structure 120 will be between approximately, e.g., 20 Deg. C to 50 Deg. C. during cryogen 127 evaporation within. Expandable membranous structure 120 is a hollow bulbous structure in its expanded state, and comprises a single ostium 121 configured for adhesive bonding to distal end of probe shaft 116 using adhesive bond 122. Cryogen exhaust vent 123 comprises at least one fenestration in distal end of probe shaft 116, which is in fluidic communication with a proximal vent port, not shown, and the room. A pressure relief valve, not shown, may be disposed in the fluid path between the interior of expandable membranous structure 120 and the room to control the pressure within expandable membranous structure 120, and the degree of expansion during liquid cryogen 127 evaporation.

[0072] The applications of the disclosed invention discussed above are not limited to certain treatments or regions of the body, but may include any number of other treatments and areas of the body. Modifications of the above-described methods and devices for carrying out the invention, and variations of aspects of the invention that are obvious to those of skill in the arts are intended to be within the scope of this disclosure. Moreover, various combinations of aspects between examples are also contemplated and are considered to be within the scope of this disclosure as well.