Wide-aperture microwave catheter-based cardiac ablation

This study investigates a novel means of treating cardiac arrhythmias using microwave heating. A catheter-based spiral antenna, approximately one wavelength in circumference, produces wide, deep ablation in in vivo cardiac tissue. The spiral antenna is designed to be inserted transluminally, in a straightened state, and then released to re-form when in position within the heart. A balloon inflated with electrically non-conducting fluid surrounds the spiral to direct power forward into the cardiac tissue, and to prevent surface overheating