CURRENT GENERATOR FOR A MEDICAL TREATMENT SYSTEM

Abstract

A current generator for a medical treatment system is disclosed herein. In one example, the medical treatment system can include a cable and a current generator. The cable can include a distal portion that couples to a medical device and a proximal portion. The proximal portion of the cable can include a first and second conductor, with each conductor having an exposed contact region. The current generator can releasably couple to the cable to deliver an electrical signal. The current generator can include an inner chamber that can receive at least a portion of the cable. The current generator can also include first and second electrical connectors, which can electrically connect to the conductors. The current generator can also include a cable guide that can assist with position the cable within the inner chamber and a cable lock that can lock a part of the cable in position.

Claims

1. A medical system comprising: an elongate shaft cable comprising: a distal portion coupled to a medical device; a proximal portion; a first conductor including a first contact region at the proximal portion; and a second conductor having a second contact region at the proximal portion, the second contact region spaced apart from the first contact region; and a current source generator configured to be releasably coupled to the cable and deliver an electrical signal to the first and second conductors, the current generator comprising: an inner chamber configured to receive at least the proximal portion of the cable; a first electrical connector disposed within the inner chamber and configured to electrically connect with the first conductor via the first contact region; a second electrical connector disposed within the inner chamber and configured to electrically connect with the second conductor via the second contact region; a cable guide positioned at one end of the current generator, the cable guide configured to guide the proximal portion of the cable to the inner chamber; and a cable lock configured to lock the at least a part of the cable in position.

2. The medical system of claim 1, wherein the elongate shaft is sized and configured to be advanced intravascularly to a treatment site.

3. The medical system of claim 1, wherein the first and second conductors are coaxial.

4. The medical system of claim 1, wherein the elongate shaft is a cable.

5. The medical system of claim 1, wherein the first conductor comprises a tubular member defining a lumen, and wherein the second conductor comprises an elongate member extending through the lumen.

6. The medical system of claim 1, further comprising an electrically insulative material disposed radially between the first conductor and the second conductor.

7. The medical system of claim 1, further comprising an electrically insulative material disposed axially between the first contact region and the second contact region.

8. The medical system of claim 1, wherein the first electrical connector comprises a clip configured to contact the first contact region when the proximal portion of the elongate shaft is received within the inner chamber, and wherein the second electrical connector comprises a second clip configured to contact the second region when the proximal portion of the elongate shaft is received within the inner chamber.

9. The medical system of claim 1, wherein the current source is a current generator.

10. The medical system of claim 1, wherein the inner chamber comprises a proximal stop configured such that when the proximal portion of the cable is slidably disposed within the inner chamber such that a proximal end of the cable abuts the proximal stop, the first and second contact regions are in contact with the first and second connectors, respectively.

11. The medical system of claim 1, wherein the cable guide comprises a guide surface adjacent an aperture, the guide surface configured to urge a proximal end of the elongate shaft through the aperture.

12. The medical system of claim 11, wherein the guide surface is at least one of: tapered, curved, sloped, or conical.

13. A current generator for a medical device including a core member, the current generator comprising: a body having a first end, a second end opposite the first, and an inner chamber extending from the first end towards the second end, the inner chamber being configured to slidably connect to a core member and being configured to hold at least a part of the core member therein; an electrical connector disposed at least partially within the inner chamber, the electrical connector configured to electrically connect with the core member; a guide member positioned at the first end, the guide member configured to guide the at least a part of the core member to the inner chamber; and a locking member configured to releasably retain the at least a part of the core member in position.

14. The current generator for a medical device of claim 13, wherein the electrical connector comprises a clip configured to contact the core member.

15. The current generator for a medical device of claim 13, further comprising a second electrical connector disposed at least partially within the inner chamber.

16. The current generator for a medical device of claim 13, wherein the locking member comprises an insert and a biasing mechanism, the biasing mechanism configured to press the insert against the at least a part of the core member.

17. The current generator for a medical device of claim 16, wherein the insert is moveable between a locked and an unlocked position.

18. The current generator for a medical device of claim 16, wherein the insert is biased in a locked configuration, the insert further comprising a release mechanism configured to temporarily move the insert away from contact with the at least a part of the cable.

19. The current generator for a medical device of claim 13, wherein the inner chamber comprises a proximal stop configured to abut a proximal end of the core member such that when the core member abuts the proximal stop, the electrical connector electrically connects with the core member.

20. A method for delivering electrical current to a treatment device, the method comprising: inserting a first end portion of a treatment device into a chamber of a current generator such that a first conductor of the treatment device is in electrical contact with a first electrical connector of the current generator and a second conductor of the treatment device is in electrical contact with a second electrical connector of the current generator; locking the first end portion of the treatment device in position with respect to the current generator; and as a result of said inserting, enabling the delivery of an electrical signal to the treatment device via the current generator.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein inserting the first end portion of the treatment device into the chamber of the current generator comprises aligning an exposed portion of the first conductor with the first electrical connector of the current generator.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein inserting the first end portion of the treatment device into the chamber of the current generator comprises aligning a second exposed portion of the second conductor with the second electrical connector of the current generator.

23. The method of claim 20, wherein the electrical signal is delivered to the treatment device for two minutes or less.

24. The method of claim 20, wherein the treatment device comprises a stent retriever.

25. The method of claim 20, further comprising delivering the electrical signal to the treatment device via the current generator.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0082] Many aspects of the present disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale. Instead, emphasis is placed on clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure.

[0083] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an electrically enhanced treatment system for retrieving material from a body lumen, in accordance with the present technology.

[0084] FIG. 2 shows a side schematic view of the treatment device for retrieving material from a body lumen, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology.

[0085] FIG. 3A shows a side schematic view of a core member, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology.

[0086] FIG. 3B shows a side schematic view of a core member, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology.

[0087] FIG. 4 shows an isometric view of a current generator, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology.

[0088] FIG. 5 shows a front view of a current generator, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology.

[0089] FIG. 6 shows a sectional view of a current generator, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology.

[0090] FIG. 7 shows a sectional view of a current generator, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology.

[0091] FIG. 8 shows an isometric view of a body of the current generator, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology.

[0092] FIG. 9 shows a front view of the body of the current generator, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology.

[0093] FIG. 10 shows a sectional view of a locking mechanism of a current generator, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology.

[0094] FIG. 11 shows a schematic view of the electronics of the current generator, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology.

[0095] FIG. 12 shows a schematic view of the electronics of the current generator, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technology.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0096] The present technology provides devices, systems, and methods for removing clot material from a blood vessel lumen. Although many of the embodiments are described below with respect to devices, systems, and methods for treating a cerebral or intracranial embolism, other applications and other embodiments, in addition to those described herein, are within the scope of the technology. For example, the treatment systems and methods of the present technology may be used to remove emboli from body lumens other than blood vessels (e.g., the digestive tract, etc.) and/or may be used to remove emboli from blood vessels outside of the brain (e.g., pulmonary, abdominal, cervical, or thoracic blood vessels, or peripheral blood vessels including those within the legs or arms, etc.). In addition, the treatment systems and methods of the present technology may be used to remove luminal obstructions other than clot material (e.g., plaque, resected tissue, foreign material, etc.). Moreover, the current generator of the present technology may be used in other contexts beyond removal of luminal obstructions, for example electrolytic detachment, neuromodulation, or any other instances in which electrical current is delivered to a treatment system disposed within a corporeal lumen or otherwise within the body.

[0097] FIG. 1 illustrates a view of an electrically enhanced treatment system 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present technology. As shown in FIG. 1, the treatment system 100 can include a current generator 200 and a treatment device 104 having a proximal portion 104a configured to be coupled to a core member 105 (see FIG. 2) and a distal portion 104b configured to be intravascularly positioned within a blood vessel (such as an intracranial blood vessel) at a treatment site at or proximate a thrombus. The treatment device 104 includes an interventional element 106 at the distal portion 104b, a handle 108 at the proximal portion 104a, a core member 105 coupled to the proximal portion 104a, and a plurality of elongated shafts or members extending therebetween. For example, in some embodiments, such as that shown in FIG. 1, the treatment device 104 includes a first catheter 110 (such as a guide catheter or balloon guide catheter), a second catheter 112 (such as a distal access catheter or aspiration catheter) configured to be slidably disposed within a lumen of the first catheter 110, and a third catheter 114 (such as a microcatheter) configured to be slidably disposed within a lumen of the second catheter 112.

[0098] The core member 105 is configured to be slidably disposed within the lumen of the third catheter 114. In the illustrated embodiment, the core member 105 can take the form of an electrical cable that includes a first conductor 116 and a second conductor 118. As discussed in more detail below, in some instances the first conductor 116 can take the form of an elongated tube (e.g., a hypotube) and the second conductor 118 can take the form of an elongated wire or rod. In some embodiments, the second conductor 118 is configured to be disposed within a lumen of the first conductor 116. The first conductor 116 and/or the second conductor 118 can be electrically insulated along at least a portion of their respective lengths. In some embodiments, the treatment device 104 does not include the second catheter 112. The first catheter 110 can be coupled to (or incorporate) the handle 108, which provides proximal access to the first conductor 116 and second conductor 118. In some embodiments, the handle 108 can be a series of rotating hemostasis valves. For example, the handle 108 can be a Bi-Tri-Quad axial system used for neurointerventions.

[0099] The current generator 200 may be coupled to the core member 105 to deliver electrical current to the interventional element 106 and thereby provide an electrically charged environment at the distal portion 104b of the treatment device 104. Further, the current generator 200 may be coupled to the core member 105 to return electrical current from the electrically charged environment to the current generator 200. In various embodiments, the current generator 200 can be electrically coupled to the first conductor 116, the second conductor 118, or both.

[0100] In some embodiments, the treatment system 100 includes a suction source 120 (e.g., a syringe, a pump, etc.) configured to be fluidically coupled (e.g., via a connector 122) to a proximal portion of one or more of the first catheter 110, the second catheter 112, and/or the third catheter 114 to apply negative pressure therethrough. In some embodiments, the treatment system 100 includes a fluid source 124 (e.g., a fluid reservoir, a syringe, pump, etc.) configured to be fluidically coupled (e.g., via the connector 122) to a proximal portion of one or more of the first catheter 110, the second catheter 112, and/or the third catheter 114 to supply fluid (e.g., saline, contrast agents, a drug such as a thrombolytic agent, etc.) to the treatment site.

[0101] According to some embodiments, the catheters 110, 112, and 114 can each be formed as a generally tubular member extending along and about a central axis. According to some embodiments, the third catheter 114 is generally constructed to track over a conventional guidewire in the cervical anatomy and into the cerebral vessels associated with the brain and may also be chosen according to several standard designs that are generally available. Accordingly, the third catheter 114 can have a length that is at least 125 cm long, and more particularly may be between about 125 cm and about 175 cm long. Other designs and dimensions are contemplated.

[0102] The second catheter 112 can be sized and configured to slidably receive the third catheter 114 therethrough. As noted above, the second catheter 112 can be coupled at a proximal portion to a suction source 120 (FIG. 1) such as a pump or syringe in order to supply negative pressure to a treatment site. The first catheter 110 can be sized and configured to slidably receive both the second catheter 112 and the third catheter 114 therethrough. In some embodiments, the first catheter 110 is a balloon guide catheter having an inflatable balloon or other expandable member surrounding the catheter shaft at or near its distal end. In operation the first catheter 110 can first be advanced through a vessel and then its balloon can be expanded to anchor the first catheter 110 in place and/or arrest blood flow from areas proximal of the balloon, e.g. to enhance the effectiveness of aspiration performed via the first catheter 110 and/or other catheter(s). (Alternatively, a guide catheter without a balloon can be employed.) Next, the second catheter 112 can be advanced through the first catheter 110 until its distal end extends distally beyond the distal end of the first catheter 110. The second catheter 112 can be positioned such that its distal end is adjacent a treatment site (e.g., a site of a blood clot within the vessel). The third catheter 114 may then be advanced through the second catheter 112 until its distal end extends distally beyond the distal end of the second catheter 112. The interventional element 106 may then be advanced through the third catheter 114 via the first conductor 116 for delivery to the treatment site.

[0103] According to some embodiments, the bodies of the catheters 110, 112, and 114 can be made from various thermoplastics, e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE or TEFLON®), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), etc., which can optionally be lined on the inner surface of the catheters or an adjacent surface with a hydrophilic material such as polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) or some other plastic coating. Additionally, either surface can be coated with various combinations of different materials, depending upon the desired results.

[0104] In some embodiments, the current generator 200 may be coupled to a proximal portion of the first conductor 116, and/or a proximal portion of the third catheter 114, the second catheter 112, and/or first catheter 110 to provide an electric current to the interventional element 106. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the current generator 200 can be coupled to a proximal portion of the first conductor 116 such that the first conductor 116 functions as a first conductive path (e.g., as a positive conductive path transmitting current from the current generator to the treatment site). As shown in FIG. 1, the current generator 200 can also be coupled to a proximal portion of the second conductor 118 such that the second conductor 118 functions as a second conductive path (e.g., as a negative conductive path transmitting current from the treatment site to the current generator 102). In other embodiments, the negative electrode can be separate from the second conductor 118. In some embodiments, the positive electrode can comprise the interventional element 106, or a portion thereof, or be carried by the interventional element 106; the negative electrode can be carried by one or more of the third catheter 114, the second catheter 112, and/or first catheter 110, or be coupled to or formed by a portion of the second conductor 118. In some embodiments, the negative electrode can be provided via one or more external electrodes, such as a needle puncturing the patient, or a grounding pad applied to the patient's skin; in some such embodiments, the first conductor 116 or the second conductor 118 may be omitted from the core member 105.

[0105] The system can include multiple (e.g., two or more), distinct conductive paths or channels for passing electrical current along the system. The interventional element 106 can serve as one electrode (e.g., a positive electrode) in electrical communication with a conductive path via the first conductor 116. Another of the conductive paths of the system can be in electrical communication with another electrode (e.g., a negative electrode). For example, the second conductor 118 can serve as the negative electrode.

[0106] As shown in FIG. 2, the first conductor 116 and the interventional element 106 can be joined at a connection 126 to secure the interventional element 106 relative to the first conductor 116 and to complete an electrical pathway between the elongate first conductor 116 to the interventional element 106. The interventional element 106 can be metallic or otherwise electrically conductive so that when the interventional element 106 is placed in the presence of blood (or thrombus, and/or any other electrolytic medium which may be present, such as saline) and voltage is applied via the electrical connectors of the current generator 200, current flows from the positive connector of the current generator 200, distally along the first conductor 116 to the interventional element 106 and through the surrounding media (e.g., blood, tissue, thrombus, etc.) before returning proximally along the second conductor 118 to the negative electrical connector of the current generator 200, thereby positively charging at least a portion of the interventional element 106 and promoting clot adhesion.

[0107] In various embodiments, the second conductor 118 and the interventional element 106 can be joined together to secure the interventional element 106 relative to the second conductor 118 and to complete an electrical pathway between the elongate second conductor 118 to the interventional element 106. For example, when voltage is applied via the electrical connectors of the current generator 200, current can flow from the positive connector of the current generator 200, distally along the second conductor 118 to the interventional element 106 and through the surrounding media (e.g., blood, tissue, thrombus, etc.) before returning proximally along the first conductor 116 to the negative electrical connector of the current generator 200, thereby positively charging at least a portion of the interventional element 106 and promoting clot adhesion.

[0108] In certain embodiments, the polarities of the current generator 200 can be switched, so that the negative electrical connector is electrically coupled to the first conductor 116 and the positive electrical connector is electrically coupled to the second conductor 118. This can be advantageous when, for example, attempting to attract predominantly positively charged material to the interventional element 106, or when attempting to break up a clot rather than grasp it with an interventional element 106. In some embodiments alternating current (AC) signals may be used rather than DC. In certain instances, AC signals may advantageously help break apart a thrombus or other material.

[0109] In various embodiments, the interventional element 106 can take any number of forms, for example a removal device, a thrombectomy device, or other suitable medical device. For example, in some embodiments the interventional element 106 may be a stent and/or stent retriever, such as Medtronic's Solitaire™ Revascularization Device, Stryker Neurovascular's Trevo® ProVue™ Stentriever, or other suitable devices. In some embodiments, the interventional element 106 may be a coiled wire, a weave, and/or a braid formed of a plurality of braided filaments. Examples of suitable interventional elements 106 include any of those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,300,458, filed Nov. 5, 2007, U.S. Pat. No. 8,940,003, filed Nov. 22, 2010, U.S. Pat. No. 9,039,749, filed Oct. 1, 2010, and U.S. Pat. No. 8,066,757, filed Dec. 28, 2010, each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

[0110] The interventional element 106 can have a low-profile, constrained or compressed configuration for intravascular delivery to the treatment site within the third catheter 114, and an expanded configuration for securing and/or engaging clot material and/or for restoring blood flow at the treatment site. The interventional element 106 has a proximal portion including an attachment portion 106a that may be coupled to the first conductor 116 and a distal portion comprising an open cell framework or body 106b. In some embodiments, the body 106b of the interventional element 106 can be generally tubular (e.g., cylindrical), and the proximal portion of the interventional element 106 can taper proximally to the attachment portion 106a.

[0111] The interventional element 106 can be a metallic and/or electrically conductive thrombectomy device. For example, the interventional element can include or be made of stainless steel, nitinol, cobalt-chromium, platinum, tantalum, alloys thereof, or any other suitable material. In some embodiments, the interventional element 106 is a mesh structure (e.g., a braid, a stent, etc.) formed of a superelastic material (e.g., Nitinol) or other resilient or self-expanding material configured to self-expand when released from the third catheter 114. The mesh structure may include a plurality of struts and open spaces between the struts. In some embodiments, the struts and spaces may be situated along the longitudinal direction of the interventional element 106, the radial direction, or both.

[0112] In some embodiments, the first conductor 116 can be a structural element configured to push and pull a device such as the interventional element 106 along the bodily lumen. The first conductor 116 can be any suitable elongate member configured to advance the interventional element 106 to a treatment site within a blood vessel. For example, the first conductor 116 can be or include a wire, tube (e.g., a hypotube), coil, or any combination thereof. According to some embodiments, the first conductor 116 comprises an elongate tubular member defining a lumen therethrough. In some embodiments, the first conductor 116 can comprise a distally located aperture configured to receive the attachment portion of the interventional element. In some embodiments, the first conductor 116 comprises a distally located joining element comprising the aperture configured to receive the attachment portion. The first conductor 116 can have a length sufficient to extend from a location outside the patient's body through the vasculature to a treatment site within the patient's body. The first conductor 116 can be a monolithic structure or formed of multiple joined segments. In some embodiments, the first conductor 116 can comprise a laser-cut hypotube having a spiral cut pattern (or other pattern of cut voids) formed in its sidewall along at least a portion of its length. The first conductor 116 can be metallic and/or otherwise electrically conductive to deliver current from the current generator 102 to the interventional element 106. For example, the first conductor 116 can comprise or consist of nickel titanium alloy, stainless steel, or other metals or alloys. In embodiments that comprise multiple joined segments, the segments may be of the same or different materials. For example, some or all of the first conductor 116 can be formed of stainless steel, or other suitable materials known to those skilled in the art. Nickel titanium alloy may be preferable for kink resistance and reduction of imaging artifacts.

[0113] In some embodiments, the second conductor 118 can be a structural element configured to secure or retain a position of the interventional element 106 relative to the first conductor 116. Additionally, or alternatively, the second conductor 118 can be configured to be a negative electrode. The second conductor 118 can be any suitable elongate member configured to extend through a lumen of the first conductor 116. For example, the second conductor 118 can be or include a wire, tube (e.g., a hypotube), coil, or any combination thereof. The second conductor 118 can have a length sufficient to extend from a location outside the patient's body through the vasculature to a treatment site within the patient's body. The second conductor 118 can be a monolithic structure or formed of multiple joined segments. The second conductor 118 can be metallic or electrically conductive to deliver current from the surrounding media (e.g., blood, tissue, thrombus, etc.) to the current generator 200. For example, the second conductor 118 can comprise or consist of nickel titanium alloy, stainless steel, or other metals or alloys. In embodiments that comprise multiple joined segments, the segments may be of the same or different materials. For example, some or all of the second conductor 118 can be formed of stainless steel, or other suitable materials known to those skilled in the art. Nickel titanium alloy may be preferable for kink resistance and reduction of imaging artifacts. The second conductor 118 can be electrically insulated along some or all of its length. In some embodiments, the second conductor 118 comprises an insulated wire or guide wire having one or more exposed, electrically conductive portions. For example, a distal end portion of the second conductor 118 can be exposed to conduct current from surrounding media (e.g., blood, tissue, thrombus, etc.) at a treatment site.

[0114] In some embodiments, the treatment device 104 can comprise one or more electrically insulating materials. For example, an insulating material 130 can be disposed on one or more portions of the second conductor 118 to electrically isolate the second conductor 118 from the first conductor 116, the connection 126, and/or the interventional element 106. Additionally or alternatively, the insulating material 130 can be disposed within a lumen of the first conductor 116 to electrically isolate the first conductor 116 from the second conductor 118 and/or the attachment portion of the interventional element 106. In some embodiments, the insulating material 130 is disposed over an outer surface of the first conductor 116 along at least a portion of a length of the first conductor 116 to direct current through the first conductor 116 and prevent current loss from the first conductor 116 to the surrounding environment. As shown in FIG. 2, in some embodiments, an insulating material 127 can be disposed adjacent to a proximal end portion 116a and/or a distal end portion 116b of the first conductor 116. The insulating material 127 may be disposed along an entire length of the first conductor 116 and/or the second conductor 118 or the insulating material may be disposed along select portions of the first conductor 116 and/or the second conductor 118. The insulating materials 127, 130 may comprise polyimide, parylene, PTFE, or another suitable electrically insulating material.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 2, the interventional element 106 and the first conductor 116 can be coupled at a connection 126. According to some embodiments, the interventional element 106 and the first conductor 116 can be substantially permanently attached together at the connection 126. That is, the interventional element 106 and the first conductor 116 can be attached together in a manner that, under the expected use conditions of the device, the interventional element 106 and the first conductor 116 would not become unintentionally separated from one another. In some embodiments, the treatment device 104 can comprise a portion, located proximally or distally of the connection 126, that is configured for selective detachment of the interventional element 106 from the first conductor 116. For example, such a portion can comprise an electrolytically severable segment of the first conductor 116. In some embodiments, the device can be devoid of any feature that would permit selective detachment of the interventional element 106 from the first conductor 116. The connection 126 can provide a mechanical interlock between the interventional element 106 and the first conductor 116. Moreover, the connection 126 can be configured to complete an electrically conductive path between the interventional element 106 and the elongate first conductor 116.

[0116] In some embodiments, the connection 126 can comprise a bonding agent and/or a joining element. The bonding agent can comprise adhesive, solder, welding flux, brazing filler, etc. In some embodiments, the bonding agent can bond to the connection 126 without applying heat. For example, the bonding agent can comprise a UV-curable adhesive. In embodiments that comprise a polymer coating of the wire or polymer tubing, use of a bonding agent that avoids application of heat that would damage the polymer may be preferred. The joining element can be mechanical component used to mechanically interlock the interventional element 106 to the connection 126.

[0117] FIG. 3A illustrates a schematic view of a proximal end of the core member 105 according to one or more embodiments of the present technology. The illustrated proximal portion of the core member 105 can include an insulating material 127, the proximal end of the first conductor 116, an insulating material 130, and the proximal end of the second conductor 118. The insulating material 127 can be disposed radially around the distal portion of the first conductor 116. The first conductor 116 can form a lumen, with the insulating material 130 and second conductor 118 disposed within the lumen of the first conductor. The insulating material 130 can be disposed radially between the first conductor 116 and the second conductor 118. In some embodiments, the core member 105 can be arranged in a cable-like manner. For example, insulating material 127 can function as a cable sheath, with the first conductor 116, insulating material 130, and second conductor 118 disposed within the insulating material 127. In some embodiments, the insulating material 127, the first conductor 116, an insulating material 130, and the second conductor 118 can be arranged coaxially. In some embodiments, the insulating material 127, the first conductor 116, an insulating material 130, and the second conductor 118 can be parallel to one or more of the components of the core member 105.

[0118] In some embodiments, sections (e.g., proximal end sections) of the first conductor 116 and the second conductor 118 can be uninsulated, and thus, exposed. For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, the first conductor 116 can be uninsulated along the length 132. Additionally, or alternatively, the second conductor 118 can be uninsulated along the length 136. The exposed portions of the first conductor 116 and second conductor 118 can form a contact region that can allow for a separate component, such as an electrical clip or other electrical connector, to contact the exposed portions. In some embodiments, the first conductor 116 and second conductor 118 can be configured to be exposed at different locations along a longitudinal axis of the core member 105. For example, in some embodiments, a portion of the insulating material 130 can be axially positioned in between the first conductor 116 and the second conductor 118 such that the insulating material 130 separates the exposed portions of the first conductor 116 and the second conductor 118 along the length 134. In some embodiments, the first conductor 116 can have an exposed contact region at or near the proximal end or portion of the core member 105. In various embodiments, the second conductor 118 can have an exposed contact region at or near the proximal end or portion of core member 105.

[0119] In some embodiments, the core member 105 can be configured to receive an electrical signal from the current generator 200. For example, as will be described in more detail below, one or more electrical connectors from the current generator 200 can electrically connect with the contact regions of first conductor 116 and second conductor 118 to deliver an electrical signal to the first conductor 116 and the second conductor 118.

[0120] In some embodiments, an insulative or conductive tube can be coupled to the first conductor 116, second conductor 118, and insulating material 130. As illustrated in FIG. 3B, proximal portion of the core member 105 can include an insulating material 127, the proximal end of the first conductor 116, an insulating tube 140, and a conductive tube 142. The insulating tube 140 can be coupled to the insulating material 130 so that the insulating tube 140 is disposed radially around the proximal end of the insulating material 130. The conductive tube 142 can be coupled to the proximal end of the second conductor 118 so that the conductive tube 142 is disposed radially around the proximal end of the second conductor 118. In some embodiments, the insulative tube 140 and the conductive tube 142 can be coupled to the core member 105 in a manner that creates a substantially uniform width at the proximal end of the core member 105. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3B, the first conductor 116, insulative tube 140, and conductive tube 142 can have substantially the same outer diameter, which creates substantially a uniform width at the proximal end of the core member 105. In various embodiments, the proximal end of the core member 105 can have a non-uniform width. For example, the insulative tube 140 can have a larger outer diameter than the conductive tube 142 or the first conductor 116.

[0121] In some embodiments, insulative tube 140 can prevent electrical shortages between the first conductor 116, the second conductor 118, and/or the conductive tube 142 at the proximal end of the core member 105. For example, the conductive tube 140 can include an electrically insulative material and can be positioned between the first conductor 116 and the second conductor 118 and/or conductive tube 142. This arrangement can prevent the first conductor 116 from directly contacting the second conductor 118 or the conductive tube 142.

[0122] In some embodiments, the conductive tube 142 can assist with coupling the current generator 200 to the second conductor 118. For example, the conductive tube 142 can include an electrically conductive material that allows for the conductive tube 142 and the second conductor 118 to be electrically coupled. Additionally, in some embodiments, the outer surface of the conductive tube 142 can be electrically conductive, which can allow for an electrical signal to be delivered to the second conductor 118 through the conductive tube 142. This arrangement can allow for one or more electrical connectors from the current generator 200 to electrically couple with the second conductor 118 by coupling with the conductive tube 142.

[0123] FIGS. 4-10 illustrate several views of a current generator 200 according to one or more embodiments of the present technology. In operation, the current generator 200 is configured to slidably receive an end portion of an electrical cable (e.g., the core member 105 or other elongate conductor(s)) within the current generator 200. Once in position, the current generator 200 is electrically coupled to the cable (e.g., the first and/or second conductors 116, 118 of the core member 105) and can deliver electrical current thereto. As shown in FIG. 4, the current generator can include a body 202 and a cap 204. The cap 204 can be configured to couple to the body 202 at the distal end of the body 202. For example, the cap 204 can form a friction fit with the body 202 when the cap 204 slides over the distal end of the body 202 and interacts with an engagement portion 234 on the body 202. The body 202 can be configured to house the electronics of the current generator 200. For example, the body 202 can house a power source 240, a first electrical connector 222a, a second electrical connector 222b, a controller 242, and/or drive circuitry 248. As will be described in more detail below, in some embodiments, the body 202 can include a channel 206 on the distal end of the body 202. The channel 206 can provide an opening for a component, such as the core member, to be inserted within the current generator 200.

[0124] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the cap 204 can include an aperture 207 and a guide member or guide surface 208. The aperture 207 can be formed at or near the center of the guide surface 208. In some embodiments, the aperture 207 can be an opening that is coupled to and/or aligned with the channel 206 and provides access to the channel 206. The guide surface 208 can be formed on the distal end of the cap 204. In some embodiments, the guide surface 208 can be configured to guide a cable to the aperture 207. For example, the walls of the guide surface 208 can have a conical shape that leads to the aperture 207. The conical shape of the guide surface 208 directs any cable, or other object, that comes into contact with the guide surface 208 towards the aperture 207. In some embodiments, the guide surface 208 can be formed in another shape. For example, the guide surface 208 can have a hemispherical shape, a curved shape, and/or a sloped shape. In some embodiments, the guide surface 208 can have walls that taper towards the aperture 207 and/or towards the channel 206.

[0125] The current generator 200 can be configured to guide the core member 105 into the channel 206. For example, when a user attempts to insert the core member 105 into the current generator 200, the proximal end of the core member 105 can contact the guide surface 208, which can direct the proximal end of the core member 105 towards the aperture 207 due to the tapered shape of the guide surface 208. Once the core member 105 reaches the aperture 207, the core member 105 can be further inserted into the channel 206 through the aperture 207.

[0126] FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate several sectional views of the current generator 200 according to one or more embodiments of the present technology. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, in some embodiments, the current generator 200 can include a channel 206, a lower wall 212, a stop 214, an inner chamber 216, one or more spacers 218, an upper wall 220, and one or more electrical connectors 222. The channel 206 can be an opening that is formed on the distal end of the body 202 of the current generator 200. The opening of the channel 206 can extend through a portion of the body 202 and couple to the inner chamber 216 to provide access to the inner chamber 216. The inner chamber 216 can be defined by the space between the lower wall 212 and the upper wall 220. The lower wall 212 can have an end portion or stop 214. The stop 214 can mark the proximal end of the inner chamber 216. The upper wall 220 can be coupled to the lower wall 212. In some embodiments, the upper wall 220 can have one or more gaps 224 formed within the upper wall 220. In some embodiments, one or more electrical connectors 222 can extend through the one or more gaps 224 to be accessible within the inner chamber 216. In various embodiments, the electrical connectors 222 can be clips, wires, plugs, brushes, prongs, or other suitable connectors, or comprise electrically conductive surfaces, projections or members which are biased toward the channel 206. In some embodiments, one or more spacers 218 can be coupled to the lower wall 212 and upper wall 220.

[0127] The current generator 200 can be sized to hold at least a portion of the core member 105 within the current generator 200. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the proximal end of the core member 105 can be inserted into the current generator 200 through the aperture 207 so that a portion of the core member 105 is positioned within the channel 206 or both the channel 206 and inner chamber 216. In some embodiments, the inner chamber 216 is sized to hold the exposed contact regions of the core member 105 entirely within the inner chamber 216. For example, the length of the inner chamber 216 can equal or exceed the combined lengths of length 132, length 134, and length 136 as shown in FIG. 3. In some embodiments, the length of the inner chamber 216 can be greater than the combined lengths of length 132, length 134, and length 136. In some embodiments, the aperture 207 is sized to exclude components that are slightly larger (e.g. 10%, 5%, 1%, or less than 1% larger) than outer diameter of the core member 105. In some embodiments, the core member 105 has an outer diameter between the range of 0.01 inches to 0.03 inches. In various embodiments, the core member 105 has an outer diameter between the range of 0.014 to 0.027 inches. The current generator 200 can be configured to couple to the core member 105. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the core member 105 can be inserted within the inner chamber 216 of the current generator 200 through the aperture 207 and channel 206. In some embodiments, the current generator 200 can slide over a portion of the core member such that the core member 105 abuts the stop 214 of the lower wall 212.

[0128] In some embodiments, the current generator 200 can be configured to electrically couple to the core member 105. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, when the core member 105 is inserted into the inner chamber 216, the exposed contact regions of the first conductor 116 and the second conductor 118 can come into contact with the electrical connectors 222, which establishes an electrical connection between the current generator 200 and the core member 105. As shown in FIG. 6, the first connectors 222a and second connectors 222b can come into contact with the exposed portions of the first conductor 116 and the second conductor 118 respectively when the core member 105 is inserted into the current generator 200. In some embodiments, the inner chamber 216 is sized and oriented relative to the connectors 222 so that exposed portions of the first conductor 116 and the second conductor 118 align and come into contact with the electrical connectors 222 when the proximal end of the core member 105 abuts the stop 214 of the lower wall 212. Because the exposed contact regions can align and come into contact with the electrical connectors 222 when the proximal end of the core member 105 abuts the stop 214, the current generator 200 can ensure a reliable electrical connection is formed between the current generator and core member 105. In some embodiments, the current generator 200 does not electrically couple to the core member 105 unless the proximal end of the core member 105 abuts the stop 214. For example, the channel 206, chamber 216 and/or connectors 222 can be configured such that the electrical connectors 222 contact an insulated portion of the core member 105 instead of the exposed contact regions when the proximal end of the core member 105 does not abut the stop 214.

[0129] In some embodiments, the electrical connectors 222 can be configured to couple to the exposed contact regions of the first conductor 116 and the second conductor 118. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the first electrical connector 222a can contact the exposed portion of the first conductor 116 while the second electrical connector 222b can contact the exposed portion of the second conductor 118. In some embodiments, more than one electrical connector 222 can couple to the exposed portions of the first conductor 116 and second conductor 118. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, two first electrical connectors 222a can couple to the exposed portion of the first conductor 116 and two second electrical connectors 222b can couple to the exposed portion of the second conductor 118. In some embodiments, the electrical connectors 222 can have a curved engagement surface for engaging with the core member 105. When being inserted, the curved engagement surface can allow for the core member 105 to slide past the electrical connectors 222 without snagging or catching on a portion of the electrical connector 222. Additionally, the electrical connectors 222 can be resilient members that are biased downwardly such that they maintain physical contact with the core member 105 when it is positioned within the chamber 216. In some embodiments, as seen in FIG. 7, the electrical connectors 222 can have a width measured in a lateral direction orthogonal to longitudinal axis of the current generator 200 and/or the core member 105, and such width can be greater than (a) the width or diameter of the core member 105, and/or (b) the thickness of the material from which the connectors 222 are formed.

[0130] As shown in FIGS. 8-10, the current generator 200 can include a locking member or cable lock. The locking member can include an insert 230, a biasing member 232, and a release mechanism 226. The insert 230 can be positioned at the distal end of the body 202. A top edge of the insert 230 can extend along all or a portion of the channel 206. In some embodiments, the insert 230 can include an angled edge or ramp 238 near or at the top of the insert 230, and/or at the proximal end of the insert 230. The angled edge or ramp can assist with directing the proximal end of the core member to the channel 206 during insertion of the core member. In some embodiments, the insert 230 can be moveable along an axis that intersects a longitudinal axis of the cable. For example, the insert 230 can be adjusted vertically so that the insert 230 intersects a longitudinal axis of the core member 105. The biasing member 232 can be coupled to, and/or bear against, the insert 230. The biasing member 232 is configured to bias the insert 230 towards the top wall of the channel 206. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the biasing member 232 can be a spring that pushes the insert 230 towards the top wall of the channel 206. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism can include more than one biasing member 232. In various embodiments, the biasing member 232 is configured to bias the insert 230 away from the top wall of the channel 206. The release mechanism 226 can be a depressible button that is coupled to the insert 230 through one or more rods 227. The rods 227 can extend from the release mechanism 226 to couple with the insert 230. In some embodiments, the release mechanism 226 is integrally formed with the rods 227 and/or insert 230. The release mechanism 226 can be configured to adjust the insert 230 between a locked position and an unlocked position, where in the locked position the insert 230 is closer to top wall of the channel 206 when compared to the unlocked position. For example, when the release mechanism 226 is pressed in, the rods 227 can push downwards onto the insert 230, which can compress the biasing member 232 and results in the insert being in the unlocked position, as the insert is further away from the top wall of the channel 206. When the release mechanism 226 is released, the biasing member 232 can bias the insert 230 upwards, which results in the insert 230 being in the locked position as the insert 230 is closer to the top wall of the channel 206, and/or biased into that position by the biasing member 232. In some embodiments, the locking member can include an additional lock that holds the release mechanism 226 in its unlocked or locked position.

[0131] The current generator 200 can be configured to lock the core member 105 in place within the current generator 200 when the core member 105 is coupled to the current generator 200. For example, when the core member 105 is inserted into the current generator 200, the biasing member 232 can press the insert 230 against the portion of the core member 105 positioned within the channel 206 along the longitudinal axis of the core member 105. The insert 230 pressing against a portion of the core member 105 can create a friction fit with between the insert 230, the channel 206, and a portion of the core member 105. This friction fit can lock the core member 105 in position by preventing the core member 105 from moving, e.g., into or out of the channel 206 and/or current generator 200. In some embodiments, the friction fit is created when the release mechanism 226 is in its locked position. In some embodiments, the friction fit is released when the release mechanism 226 is in its unlocked state.

[0132] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the current generator 200 can include a power source 240, a first electrical connector 222a, an (optional) second electrical connector 222b, a controller 242, and/or drive circuitry 248. The controller 242 can include a processor 244 coupled to memory 246 which stores instructions (e.g., in the form of software, code or program instructions executable by the processor or controller). In some embodiments, the processor 244 can execute instructions stored on the memory 246. For example, in some embodiments, the processor 244 can execute instructions stored on the memory 246 for causing the power source 240 to deliver electric current according to certain parameters provided by the software, code, etc. In some embodiments, the controller 242 can be used to control various parameters of the energy output by the power source 240 or generator, such as intensity, amplitude, duration, frequency, duty cycle, and polarity. For example, the controller 242 can adjust the current generator 200 to provide a voltage of about 2 volts to about 28 volts and a current of about 0.5 mA to about 20 mA. The power source 240 can be connected to the controller 242, the first electrical connector 222a, and the second electrical connector 222b. In some embodiments, the power source 240 may include a direct current power supply, an alternating current power supply, and/or a power supply switchable between a direct current and an alternating current. In some embodiments, the power source 240 can be a battery. In some embodiments, the power source 240 can deliver a current or other electrical signal to the first electrical connector 222a and the second electrical connector 222b. In some embodiments, instead of or in addition to a controller 242, the current generator 200 can include drive circuitry 248. In such embodiments, the current generator 200 can include hardwired circuit elements to provide the desired waveform delivery rather than a software-based generator. The drive circuitry 248 can include, for example, analog circuit elements (e.g., resistors, diodes, switches, etc.) that are configured to cause the power source 240 to deliver electric current via the first electrical connector 222a and the second electrical connector 222b according to the desired parameters. For example, the drive circuitry 248 can be configured to cause the power source 240 to deliver periodic waveforms via first electrical connector 222a and the second electrical connector 222b. In some embodiments, the current generator 200 can include one or more user interfaces. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the body 202 can include a switch 228, which can be used to execute instructions stored in the memory 246 or turn the power on or off.

[0133] In some embodiments, the current generator 200 is configured to be a handheld device. For example, the current generator 200 can be sized so that the generator is capable of being held in the hand of a user. In some embodiments, the current generator 200 is not connected to an external power source, which can allow for the current generator to be utilized without connecting to an external power source.

[0134] The current generator 200 can be configured to output medically useful electric current to the treatment device 104. For example, when the current generator 200 is coupled to the core member 105, the switch 228 can be activated, which results in the power source 240 forming a circuit with the first electrical connector 222a, second electrical connector 222b, and the core member 105. With the circuit formed, the power source 240 can supply current to the treatment device 104 via the core member 105.

[0135] In various embodiments, the current generator 200 can include one or more safety systems that can prevent the current generator 200 from shorting or unintentionally shutting down. For example, the current generator 200 can run software that repeatedly checks the electrical path for current leakage or shortages. In some embodiments, the current generator 200 can include a feedback system that utilizes a user interface (e.g. sounds, lights, screen, etc.) to inform the user of any errors within the system. In various embodiments, the current generator 200 can be sealed to prevent moisture from entering into the current generator 200. For example, several components of the current generator 200 (e.g. the cap 204, release mechanism 226, and switch 228) can form a tight friction fit with the body 202 of the current generator 200, or can include a sealer (e.g. an O-ring) to prevent any unwanted moisture from entering into the conductive path. In some embodiments, the current generator 200 can include additional components to prevent an electrical signal from being unintentionally sent. For example, the current generator 200 can include a film that is placed over a terminal of a power source 140 to prevent the current generator 200 from operating until the film is removed.

[0136] An example method of using the current generator 200 to deliver an electrical signal to the treatment device 104 will now be described. First, the treatment device 104 is positioned within a patient at the treatment site or in a catheter, microcatheter, or in a sheath such as an introducer sheath (as can be used to package the treatment device 104) which may have a distal end configured for connection to a proximal end of a catheter hub. Once the treatment device 104 is properly positioned, the user can couple the core member 105 to the current generator. The core member 105 can be coupled to the current generator 200 by causing the current generator 200 to slide over the proximal end of the core member 105. The guide surface 208 can be used to guide the proximal end of the core member 105 to the aperture 207. Once the proximal end of the core member is at the aperture 207, the user can press the release mechanism 226 to place the insert 230 of the locking mechanism in the unlocked position. While in the unlocked position, the core member 105 can slide through the channel 206 and into the inner chamber 216. When the proximal end of the core member 105 abuts the stop 214, and/or aligns with the electrical connectors 222 of the current generator, the user can release the release mechanism 226 to place the insert 230 in the locked position, which locks the core member 105 in position. With the core member 105 in position, the user can interact with the switch 228. Interacting with the switch initiates the supply of an electrical signal through an electrical circuit from the power source 240, through the second electrical connector 222b, through the second conductor 118, to the treatment site, and returning from the treatment site, through the first conductor 116, through the first electrical connector 222a, and back to the power source 240. (When other forms or polarities of current are employed, the direction of travel may be in the opposite direction, or varied or alternating as appropriate.) In some embodiments, the electrical signal is an electrical current of between about 0-5 mA. In some embodiments, the electrical signal is supplied for a duration of time between about 30 seconds to about 10 minutes. After the electrical signal is delivered to the treatment device 104 for the proper duration, the user can interact with the switch 228 to deactivate the power source 240. Additionally, the user can press the release mechanism 226 to unlock the core member 105. With the core member 105 unlocked, the user can decouple the current generator 200 from the core member 105 by slidably removing the current generator 200 from the core member 105.

CONCLUSION

[0137] The descriptions of embodiments of the technology are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the technology to the precise form disclosed above. Where the context permits, singular or plural terms may also include the plural or singular term, respectively. Although specific embodiments of, and examples for, the technology are described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the technology, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. For example, while steps are presented in a given order, alternative embodiments may perform steps in a different order. The various embodiments described herein may also be combined to provide further embodiments.

[0138] Moreover, unless the word “or” is expressly limited to mean only a single item exclusive from the other items in reference to a list of two or more items, then the use of “or” in such a list is to be interpreted as including (a) any single item in the list, (b) all of the items in the list, or (c) any combination of the items in the list. Additionally, the term “comprising” is used throughout to mean including at least the recited feature(s) such that any greater number of the same feature and/or additional types of other features are not precluded. It will also be appreciated that specific embodiments have been described herein for purposes of illustration, but that various modifications may be made without deviating from the technology. Further, while advantages associated with certain embodiments of the technology have been described in the context of those embodiments, other embodiments may also exhibit such advantages, and not all embodiments need necessarily exhibit such advantages to fall within the scope of the technology. Accordingly, the disclosure and associated technology can encompass other embodiments not expressly shown or described herein.