CA2253847A1 - Method and apparatus for cosmetically remodeling a body structure - Google Patents

Abstract

An apparatus for ablating at least a portion of an interior of a body structure includes a catheter with a catheter interior and a port formed in a body structure of the catheter. An ablation energy delivery device is at least partially positioned in the catheter interior. The ablation energy delivery device is configured to be advanced through the port into the interior of the body structure to a selected tissue site and deliver an ablation energy to the selected site. The ablation energy delivery device is configured to be coupled to an ablation energy source. A sensor is coupled to the ablation energy source. The sensor is positionable in the interior of the body structure and measures an impedance of at least a portion of the selected tissue site. A conductive medium introduction member is coupled to a source of a conductive medium and the catheter. A feedback control means in coupled to the sensor and the conductive medium source. The feedback control means provides a controlled delivery of the conductive medium to the selected tissue site in response to a level of measured impedance. A cable coupled to the ablation energy delivery device.

Description

CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COSMETICALLY
REMODELING A BODY STRUCTURE

Cross-Reference to Related Applications This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent . S Application No. 08/651,800, entitled "METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR
TREATMENT OF AIR WAY OBSTRUCTIONS", filed May 22, 1996, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 08/642,053, entitled "METHOD FOR TREATMENT OF AIRWAY OBSTRUCTIONS", filed May 3, 1996, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 08/606,195, filed February 23, 1996, entitled "METHOD FOR
TREATMENT OF AIRWAY OBSTRUCTIONS", which cross-references U.S.
Patent ApplicationNo. 08/516,781 filed August 18, 1995, entitled "ABLATION
APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR REMOVAL OF SOFT PALATE
TISSUE", having named inventors Stuart D. Edwards, Edward J. Gough and David L. Douglass, which is a continuation-in-part of U. S. Application No.
08/239,658, filed May 9, 1994 entitled "METHOD FOR REDUCING
SNORING BY RF ABLATION OF THE UVULA", all incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE ~NVENTION
Field of the Invention This invention relates to a method and apparatus for reduc.in~ an interior volume of a body structure, and more articularly to a method and apparatus reducing a volume of the tongue and controlling an impedance through the introduction of a conductive Description of Related Art Sleep-apnea syndrome is a medical condition characterized by daytime hypersomnomulence, morning arm aches, intellectual deterioration, cardiac arrhythmias, snoring and thrashing during sleep. It is caused by frequent CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 W O 97/44092 PCT~US97/08784 episodes of apnea during the patient's sleep. The syndrome is classically subdivided into two types. One type, termed "central sleep apnea syndrome", is characterized by repeated loss of respiratory effort. The second type, termed obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, is characterized by repeated apneic episodes during sleep resulting from obstruction of the patient's upper airway or that portion of the patient's respiratory tract which is cephalad to, and does not include, the larynx.
Treatment thus far includes various medical, surgical and physical measures. Medical measures include the use of medications such as pro~ Lyline, medroxyprogesterone, acetazolamide, theophylline, nicotine and other medications in addition to avoidance of central nervous system depressantssuch as sedatives or alcohol. The medical measures above are sometimes helpful but are rarely completely effective. Further, the medications frequently have undesirable side effects.
Surgical interventions have included uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, tonsillectomy, surgery to correct severe retrognathia and tracheostomy. In one procedure the jaw is dislodged and pulled forward, in order to gain access to the base of the tongue. These procedures may be effective but the risk of surgery inthese patients can be prohibitive and the procedures are often unacceptable to the patients.
Physical measures have in~luded weight loss, nasopharyngeal airways, nasal CPAP and various tongue retaining devices used nocturnally. These measures may be partially effective but are cumbersome, unco~.~l Lable and patients often will not continue to use these for prolonged periods of time.
Weight loss may be effective but is rarely achieved by these patients.
In patients with central sleep apnea syndrome, phrenic nerve or diaphragmatic pacing has been used. Phrenic nerve or diaphragmatic pacing includes the use of electrical stimul~tion to regulate and control the patient'sdiaphragm which is innervated bilaterally by the phrenic nerves to assist or support ventilation. This pacing is disclosed in Direct Diaphra~l Stimulation by J. Mugica et al. PACE vol. 10 Jan-Feb. 1987, Part II, Prelin1inary Test of C7 CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 W O 97/44092 PCTrUS97/08784 Muscular Diaphrag7?? Pacing Sys~em on ~uman Patienls by J. Mugica et al.
from Neurostim~ tion: An Overview 1985 pp.263-279 and Electrical Activation of Respiration by Nochomovitez IEEE Eng. in Medicine and Biology;
June, 1993.
S However, it was found that many of these patients also have some degree of obstructive sleep apnea which worsens when the inspiratory force is ~llgmented by the pacer. The ventilation ind~lced by the activation ofthe diaphragm also collapses the upper airway upon inspiration and draws the patient's tongue inferiorly down the throat choking the patient. These patients then require tracheostomies for adequate tre~tment.
A physiological laryngeal pacemaker as described in Physiological Laryngeal Pacemaker by F. Kaneko et al. from Trans Am Soc Artif Intern Organs 1985 senses volume displaced by the lungs and stim~ es the appl oprlate nerve to open the patient's glottis to treat dyspnea. This appa~ ~lus is not effective for treatment of sleep apnea. The apparatus produces a signal proportional in the displaced air volume of the lungs and thereby the signal produced is too late to be used as an indicator for the treatment of sleep apnea.
There is often no displaced air volume in sleep apnea due to obstruction One measure that is effective in obstructive sleep apnea is tracheostomy.
However, this surgical intervention carries considerable morbidity and is aesthetically unacceptable to many patients. Other surgical procedures include pulling the tongue as forward as possible and surgically cutting and removing sections of the tongue and other structures which can close offthe upper airway passage.
There is a need for a method and apparatus to overcome these problems.
There is a further need for a method and apparatus to ablate a selected section in an interior section of the tongue and to deliver a conductive medium to modify an impedance of the selected section during the delivery of electromagnetic energy to the selected section.

CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 W O 97/44092 PCT~US97/08784 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, an object of the invention is to provide a method and apparatus to reduce a volume of an interior of a body structure.
Another object of the invention is to provide a method and apparatus to reduce the volume of the tongue.
Still another object of the invention is to provide a method and apparatus to reduce a volume of a selected section of an interior of the tongue.
A further object of the invention is to provide a method and appa~ s to reduce a volume of an interior section of the tongue and control an impedance of the interior section.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide a method and apparatus to reduce a volume of a selected section of an interior of the tongue while introduce a conductive medium to control impedance at the selected section.
These and other objects of the invention are achieved in an appa~ s for ablating at least a portion of an interior of a body structure including a catheter with a catheter interior and a port formed in a body structure of the catheter. An ablation energy delivery device is at least partially positioned in the catheterinterior. The ablation energy delivery device is configured to be advanced from the port into the interior of the body structure to a selected tissue site, and deliver an ablation energy to the selected site. The ablation energy delivery device is configured to be coupled to an ablation energy source. A sensor is coupled to the ablation energy source. The sensor is positionable in the interior of the body structure and measures an impedance of at least a portion of the selected tissue site. A conductive medium introduction member is coupled to a source of a conductive medium and the catheter. A feedback control means is coupled to the sensor and the conductive medium source. The feedback control means provides a controlled delivery of the conductive medium to the selected tissue site in response to a level of measured impedance. A cable couples to theablation energy delivery device.
In another embodiment of the invention, a method for reduc.ing a volume of a tongue provides an ablation apparatus including a source of ablation energy, CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 an ablation energy delivery device and a conductive medium introduction member coupled to a source of a conductive medium. At least a portion of the ablation energy delivery device is advanced into an interior of the tongue. A
sufficient amount of energy is delivered from the energy delivery device into the interior of the tongue to debulk a selected section of the tongue without ~m~ging a hypoglossal nerve. An impedance of the selected section of the tongue is measured. The conductive medium is introduced into the selected section of the tongue to modify the impedance.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGI~RES
Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of an ablation apparatus used with the methods of the present invention.
Figure 2 is cross-sectional view illustrating the catheter and connector of the ablation appa~ s shown in Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a perspective view of the connector illustrated in Figure 1.
Figure 4 is a perspective view of a needle electrode associated with the ablation apparatus illustrated in Figure 1.
Figure 5 is a perspective view of a flexible needle electrode utilized with the methods of the present invention.
Figure 6 illustrates the creation of ablation zones with the ablation apparatus shown in Figure 1. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the tongue with the mouth closed.
Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the tongue with the mouth open.
Figure 9 is a perspective view of the tongue.
Figure 10 is a perspective view ofthe dorsum ofthe tongue.
Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the tongue.
Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view ofthe tongue illustrating the location of the hypoglossal nerves and the creation of an ablation zone.
Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the tongue illustrating a plurality of ablation zones.
Figure 14 is a perspective view of the ventral surface of the tongue.

CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 W O 97/44092 PCT~US97/08784 Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the tongue.
Figure 16 is an open or closed loop feedback system couple one or more sensors to an energy source.
Figure 17 is a block diagram illustrating an analog amplifier, analog multiplexer and microprocessor used with the feedback control system.
Figure 18 is a block diagram of a temperature/impedance feedback system that can be used to control a conductive medium flow rate through the catheter of Figure 1.
Figure 19 is a block diagram of a temperature/impedance feedback system that can be used to control cooling medium flow rate through the catheter of Figure 1.
Figure 20 is a three dimensional graph illustrating the percent shrinkage of the tongue following RF ablation.
Figure 21 is a graph illustrating two-dimensional shrinkage of bovine tongue tissue with RF ablation.
Figure 22 is a graph illustrating three-dimensional shrinkage of bovine tongue tissue due to RF ablation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
A method for cosmetically remodeling and debulking the tongue, uvula, soft palate, lingual tonsil and/or adenoids provides an ablation apparatus including a source of electromagnetic energy and one or more ablation source delivery devices coupled to the electromagnetic energy source. At least one ablation source delivery device is advanced into an interior of the tongue.
Sufficient electromagnetic energy is delivered from the ablation source deliverydevice to debulk a section of the tongue without d~m~ging the hypoglossal nerve. The ablation source delivery device is then removed from the interior of the tongue. A method for treating airway obstructions is achieved by debulking the tongue without d~m~ging the hypoglossal nerve. The ablation source delivery device can be introduced into the tongue from the tongue's tip, ventralsurface, dorsum, underneath the tongue, along the tongue's midline, or in certain CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 W O 97/44092 PCT~US97/08784 instances through the chin area. The tongue is ablated (debulked) without ~m~ging the hypoglossal nerves, resulting in a remodeling of the tongue and a cosmetic change. This is achieved by positioning the ablation source delivery devices far enough away from the hypoglossal nerves so that during the delivery of electromagnetic energy to the tongue, the hypoglossal nerves are not damaged. Another method for treating airway obstructions is achieved by debulking the lingual tonsil without d~m~ging the hypoglossal nerve. These methods are used to treat sleep apnea.
Referring to Figures 1 and 2, an ablation appa~ s 10 for cosmetically remodeling and debulking the tongue, lingual tonsils, uvula, soft palate and/or adenoids is illustrated. Ablation apparatus 10 can be positioned so that one or more energy delivery devices or ablation source delivery devices 12 are introduced into an interior of the tongue through the tongue. Ablation apparatus10 may include atraumatic intubation with or without vi~u~li7~tion, provide for the delivery of oxygen or anesthetics, and can be capable of suctioning blood orother secretions. It will be appreciated that ablation apparatus 10 is used to treat a variety of di~ere~l obstructions in the body where passage of gas is restricted.
One embodiment is the treatment of sleep apnea using ablation source delivery devices 12 to ablate (cell necrosis) selected portions of the tonguet lingual tonsils and/or adenoids by the use of resistive heating, RF, microwave, ultrasound and liquid thermal jet. The plefelled energy source is an RF source. In this regard,ablation apparatus 10 can be used to ablate targeted masses including but not limited to the tongue, tonsils, turbinates, soft palate tissues, hard tissue andmucosal tissue. In one embodiment, ablation appal~L~ls 10 is used to debulk the tongue in order to increase the cross-sectional area of the air passageway. A
disinfectant medium introduction member introduces a disinfectant medium in the oral cavity in order to reduce infection of the ablated body member.
Prior to debulking the tongue, a presurgical evaluation may be performed including a physical ex~min~tion, fiberoptic pharyngoscopy, cephalometric analysis and polygraphic monitoring. The physical ex~min~tion emphasizes the evaluation of the head and neck. It also includes a close ex~min~tion of the nasal CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 cavity to identify obstructing deformities of the septum and turbinate;
oropharyngeal obstruction from a long, redundant soft palate or hypertrophic tonsils; and hypopharyngeal obstruction from a prominent base of the tongue.
Debulking appal~us 10 includes a catheter 14, an optional handle 16 and one or more ablation source delivery devices 12 extending from di~erenl ports 18 formed along a longitl-tlin~l surface of catheter 14, or from a distal end ofablation source delivery device 12. Catheter 14 can be a handpiece. An advancement device 20 may be provided. Advancement device 20 can include guide tracks or tubes 23 positioned in the interior of catheter 14. Ablation source delivery devices 12 may be positioned in guide tracks 23 and advanced from guide tracks into the interior of the tongue.
Ablation or debulking apparatus 10 includes a catheter 14, an optional handle 16 and one or more ablation source delivery device 12 exfen~ing from different ports 18 formed along a longitl-tlin~l surface of catheter 14, or from a distal portion of ablation source delivery device 12 Catheter 14 can be a handpiece. Ablation source delivery device advancement device 20, also known as advancement device 20 may be provided. Ablation source delivery device advancement device 20 can include guide tracks or tubes 23 positioned in the interior of catheter 14. Ablation source delivery device 12 may be positioned inguide tracks 23 and advanced from the guide tracks into the interior of the tongue. Cabling is coupled to ablation source delivery device 12.
Ablation source delivery device 12 may be least partially positioned in an interior of catheter 14. In one embodiment, ablation source delivery device 12 is advanced and retracted through a port 18 formed in an exterior surface of catheter 14. Ablation source delivery device advancement and retraction device 20 advances ablation source delivery device 12 out of catheter 14, into an interior of a body structure and can also provide a retraction of ablation source delivery device 12 from the interior of the body structure. Although the body structure can be any number of different structures, the body structure will hereafter be referred to as the tongue. Ablation source delivery device 12 pierce an exterior surface of the tongue and are directed to an interior region of the CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 tongue. Sufficient ablation energy is delivered by ablation source 12 to the interior of the tongue to cause the tongue to become sufficiently ablated and debulked. Ablation source delivery device 12 can be a hollow structure that is, (i) adapted to deliver different chemicals to a selected tongue interior ablation site (for chemical ablation) (ii) deliver alcohol or other liquids or semi-liquids to achieve ablation as well as a variety of dilre~ enl infusion me~ m~, including but not limited to saline, chemotherapy, a conductive medium to adjust impedance at the selected tissue site and the like. Different modalities can be combined to achieved a desired ablation inçhl~ling but not limited to RF and chemotherapy, chemical and chemotherapy. Ablation source delivery device 12 may have a limited travel distance in the tongue. In one embodiment with RF electrodes, this is achieved with an insulation sleeve that is in a surrounding relationship to an exterior of an electrode. Other devices can include a structure located on ablation source delivery device 12 which limits their advancement, or a structure coupled to a catheter which limits the advancement of ablation source delivery devices 12, such as a stop and the like. One suitable fluid is an electrolytic solution. Instead of direct contact with tissue and ablation source delivery device 12 for the delivery ofthermal energy, a cooled electrolytic solution can be used to deliver the thermal energy to the tissue. The electrolytic solution may be cooled in the range of about 30 to 55 degrees C.
Catheter 14 includes a catheter tissue interface surface 22, a cooling medium inlet conduit 24 and a cooling medium exit conduit 26, as well as a conductive medium channel extçntling through an interior of catheter 14. Ports 18 are formed in the exterior of catheter 14, and are preferably formed on catheter tissue interface surface 22. Ports 18 are isolated from a cooling medium flowing through catheter 14. Cooling provides a cooled section of catheter tissue interface surface 22 of at least 1 to 2 cm2. More preferably, the cooled section of catheter tissue interface surface 22 is at least equal to the cross-sectional diameter of the underlying zone of ablation. In one embodiment, the cooled section of catheter tissue interface surface 22 is at least equal to the cross-sectional diameter of the underlying zone of ablation. In another CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 W O 97/44092 PCTrUS97/08784 embodiment, the cooled section of catheter tissue interface surface 22 only provides cooling to an area associated with each deployed ablation source delivery device. The size of the cooled section of catheter tissue interface surface 22 varies for each patient. The size is sufficient enough to minimi7e swelling of the tongue following the delivery of electromagnetic energy. The reduction of swelling can be 50% or greater, 75% or greater, and 90% and greater. The amount of cooling provided is sufficient to enable the patient to return home shortly after the debulking procedure is performed, and not run the risk of choking on the tongue. It has been found that by providing a sufficient level ofcooling over a relatively large area, the amount of ablation in an interior region of the tongue is enhanced. By providing a sufficiently large enough cooled section of catheter tissue interface surface 22, an adenomas response is ",i~ i7ed .
A conductive medium source is coupled to ablation source delivery device 12, which is typically a needle electrode. The conductive medium channel receives conductive medium and delivers it to the needle electrode. The level of impedance is monitored, and the delivery of conductive medium is increased or decreased depending on the measured impedance Handle 16 is preferably made of an in.~ ting material. When ablation source delivery device 12 is an electrode the electrode is made of a conductive material such as stainless steel. Additionally, the electrode 12 can be made of a shaped memory metal, such as nickel tit~nillm, commercially available from Raychem Corporation, Menlo Park, California. In one embodiment, only a distal end of electrode 12 is made of the shaped memory metal in order to èffect a desired deflection. When introduced into the oral cavity, catheter 14 can be advanced until a patient's gag response is initiated. Catheter 14 is then retracted back to prevent patient's g~pin~ The distal end of electrode 12 can be semi-curved. The distal end can have a geometry to conform to an exterior of the tongue.
In one embodiment ofthe invention catheter 14 is a handpiece. In this embodiment, a separate handle 16 is not necessary. Debulking apparatus 10 is CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 used to treat an interior region of the tongue. Catheter 14 has a distal end that is sized to be positioned within an oral cavity. Ablation source delivery device 12is at least partially positioned within an interior of catheter 14. Ablation source delivery device 12 includes ablation delivery surface 30. Ablation source delivery device 20 is coupled to ablation source delivery device 12 and calibrated to advance ablation source delivery device 12 from catheter 14, including but not limited to a distal position of catheter 14, into the interior of the tongue when catheter 14 is positioned ~djacent to a surface ofthe tongue. Ablation source delivery device 12 is advanced an advancement distance 33 from catheter 14 of sufficient length to treat the interior region of the tongue with ablation energy and/or an ablation effect without d~m~ging the hypoglossal nerve or the surface of the tongue.
Catheter 14 can be malleable in order to conform to the surface of the tongue when a selected ablation target site is selected. An encapsulated soft metal, such as copper, or an annealed metal/plastic material can be used to formmalleable catheter 14. All or a portion of catheter 14 may be malleable or made of a shaped memory metal.
For many applications it is desirable for a distal end 14' of catheter 14 to be deflectable. This can be achieved mçç~l~nically or with the use of memory metals. A steering wire, or other mechanical structure, can be attached to either the exterior or interior of distal end 14'. ln one embodiment, a deflection knoblocated on handle 16 is activated by the physician causing a steering wire to tighten. This imparts a retraction of distal end 14', resulting in its deflection. It will be appreciated that other mechanical devices can be used in place of the steering wire. The deflection may be desirable for tissue sites with difficult access.
Controlled volumetric reduction of the tongue, under feedback control is used to achieve an effective opening in the airway passage. A variety of different pain killing medicaments, including but not limited to Xylocaine, may be used. Adigital ultrasonic measurement system can be used. The ultrasound measurement quantifies biological shape changes, provides ultrasonic tr~n~mi~ion and Il , CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 W O 97/44092 PCT~US97108784 reception, uses piezoelectric tr~n.cd~lcers (crystals) and provides time of flight data.
A disinfectant medium introduction member 21 may also be introduced into the oral cavity. The disinfectant medillm can be introduced prior to ablation, during ablation and/or after the ablation. It can be delivered continuously. The level of disinfection of the oral cavity is selectable as the volume of the oral cavity that is disinfected. The degree of disinfection varies.
Disinfection is provided to reduce infection of the ablated body structure.
Disinfectant medium introduction member 21 can be introduced before, after or during the introduction of ablation appal dlllslo into the oral cavity.
Additionally, disinfectant medium introduction member 21 can be removed at the same time or at a different time that ablation apparatus 10 is removed from the oral cavity.
Disinfectant medium introduction member 21 can be included in ablation apparatus 10, in an interior of catheter 14 or at an exterior of catheter 14, and may be an introducer with a lumen configured to introduce a disinfectant agent from a disinfectant agent source 23 into all or a selected portion of the oral cavity. Disinfectant medium introduction member 21 can be capable of movement within the oral cavity in order to provide for disinfection of all or only a portion of the oral cavity. For purposes of this disclosure, the oral cavity is that body internal environment where infectious germs may be introduced into the ablated tongue, soft tissue structure, and the like. Disinfectant medium introduction member 21 may be slideably positioned in catheter 14 or at its exterior. Alternatively, disinfectant medium introduction member 21 can be an optical fiber coupled to a light energy source, including but not limited to a UV
source 25. The optical fiber can also be slideably be positioned in the oral cavity. The optical fiber is configured to provide for the selective disinfection of all or only a portion of the oral cavity and can have a variety of di~e,e..l distal ends to achieve this purpose.
Suitable disinfectant agents include but are not limited to Peridex, an oral rinse co~ 0.12% chlorhexidine glllcin~te (1, 1'-hexanethylenebis[5-(p-~ . . ~ .

CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 W O 97/44092 PCTrUS97/08784 chlorophenyl) biganide} di-D-gluconate in a base cont~ining water, 11.6%
alcohol, glycerin, PEG 40 sorbitan arisoterate, flavor, dosium saccharin, and FD&C Blue No. 1.
lt will be appreciated that a variety of different disinfectants can be employed, including other electromagnetic wavelengths, and various chemical composltlons.
Ablation source delivery devices 12 are at least partially positioned in an interior of catheter 14. Each ablation source delivery device 12 is advanced andretracted through a port 18 formed in an exterior surface of catheter 14.
Advancement and retraction device advances ablation source delivery devices 12 out of catheter 14, into an interior of a body structure and retracted back intocatheter 14. Ablation source delivery devices 12 pierce an exterior surface of the tongue and are directed to an interior region of the tongue. Sufficient electromagnetic energy is delivered by ablation source delivery devices 12 to the interior of the tongue to cause the tongue to become sufficiently ablated and debulked. Ablation source delivery devices 12 can be hollow to receive a varietyof different infusion mediums, inçllltling but not limited to saline. Ablation source delivery devices 12 may be limited in the distance that they can be advanced into the tongue. This is achieved with an insulation sleeve, a structure located on ablation source delivery devices 12 which limits their advancement, or a structure coupled to catheter which limits the advancement of ablation source delivery devices 12, such as a stop and the like.
The disinfectant medium can be introduced prior to ablation, during ablation and/or after the ablation. It can be delivered continuously. The level of disinfection of the oral cavity is selectable as is the volume of the oral cavity that is disinfected. The degree of disinfection varies. Disinfection is provided to reduce infection of the ablated body structure.
An ablation delivery surface, such as an electromagnetic energy delivery surface 30 of electrode 12 can be adjusted by inclusion of an adjustable or non-adjustable insulation sleeve 32 (Figures 3, 4, and 5). Insulation sleeve 32 can be advanced and retracted along the exterior surface of electrode 12 in order to CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 W O 97/44092 PCT~US97/08784 increase or decrease the length of the electromagnetic energy delivery surface 30. Insulation sleeve 32 can be made of a variety of materials including but notlimited to nylon, polyimides, other thermoplastics and the like. The size of electromagnetic energy delivery surface 30 can be varied by other methods S inclu~ling but not limited to creating a segmented electrode with a plurality of electrodes that are capable of being multiplexed and individually activated, andthe like.
Referring specifically to Figure 4, ablation source delivery device 12 has an advancement length 33 that extends from an exterior surface of catheter 14 and is directed into the interior of the tongue. Advancement length 33 is sufficient to position ablation delivery surface 30 at a selected tissue site in the interior of the tongue. Ablation delivery surface 30 is of sufficient length so that the ablation effect is delivered to the selected tissue site, create a desired level of ablation at the selected tissue site without causing damage to the hypoglossal nerve. Ablation delivery surface 30 is not always at the distal end of ablation source delivery device 12. Insulation 32 can also be positioned at the distal end of ablation source delivery device 12. In this embodiment, ablation delivery surface 30 does not extend to the distal end of ablation source delivery device 12. However, ablation delivery surface 30 still delivers a sufficient ablation effect to create a desired level of cell necrosis in the interior of the tongue at the selected tissue site without rl~m~ging the hypoglossal nerve and/or damage to the surface of the tongue. Additionally, only one side or a portion of a side ofablation source delivery device 12 can be incul~ted This also provides for an ablation sou~ce delivery device 12 which can be positioned throughout the tongue, including adjacent to a hypoglossal nerve. Where ablation source delivery device 12 is adjacen~ to the hypoglossal nerve, ablation source delivery device 12 is insulated.
In one embodiment, advancement length 33 is 1.2 to 1.5 cm, and the length of ablation delivery surface 30 is 5 to 10 mm, more preferably about 8 mm.

CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 W O 97/44092 PCTrUS97/08784 In another embodiment, advancement length 33 is insufficient to reach the hypoglossal nerve when introduced through any of the tongue surfaces, particularly the dorsum of the tongue.
Advancement device 20 is configured to advance at least a portion of each ablation source delivery device 12 to a placement position in the interior of the tongue. Advancement device 20 can also be configured to retract each ablation source delivery device 12. At the placement position, ablation deliverysurface delivers sufflcient ablation energy and/or effect to reduce a volume of the selected site without d~m~ging a hypoglossal nerve and/or a surface of the tongue. In one embodiment, ablation source delivery device advancement and retraction device 20, with or without guide tracks 23, directs the delivery of ablation source delivery device 12 from catheter 14 into the interior ofthe tongue at an angle of 60 to 90 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of catheter 14, and preferably about 70 degrees In certain embodiments, ablation source delivery device 12 has a geometric shape, inrhl~in~ but not limited to a curved configuration that includes one or more insulated surfaces, either partially in~ ted on one side, at a proximal end, at a distal end, and the like, that is configured to reduce the volume of the selected tissue site without d~m~ing a hypoglossal nerve. In one embodiment, ablation source delivery device 12 is introduced through any tongue surface and is configured so that a section of ablation source delivery device 12 which may be positioned close to the hypoglossal nerve is provided with insulation 32. As previously noted, insulation 32 can be positioned at di~erenL sites of ablation source delivery device 12.
Handle 16 can comprise a connector 34 coupled to retraction and advancement device 20. Connector 34 provides a coupling of ablation source delivery devices 12 to power, feedback control, temperature and/or im~ging systems. An RF/temperature control block 36 can be included.
In one embodiment, the physician moves retraction and advancement device 20 in a direction toward a distal end of connector 34. Ablation source delivery devices 12 can be spring loaded. When retraction and advancement CA 022~3847 1998-ll-09 W O 97/44092 PCTrUS97/08784 device 20 is moved back, springs cause selected ablation source delivery devices12 to advance out of catheter 14.
One or more cables 38 couple ablation source delivery devices 12 to an electromagnetic energy source 40. A variety of energy sources 40 can be used with the present invention to transfer electromagnetic energy to the interior of a body structure, including but not limited to RF, microwave, ultrasound, coherentlight and thermal transfer. Preferably, energy source 40 is a RF generator.
When a RF energy source is used, the physician can activate RF energy source 40 by the use of a foot switch (not shown) coupled to RF energy source 40.
One or more sensors 42 may be positioned on an interior or exterior surface of ablation source delivery device 12, insulation sleeve 32, or be independently inserted into the interior of the body structure. Sensors 42 permit accurate measurement of temperature at a tissue site in order to determine, (i) the extent of ablation, (ii) the amount of ablation, (iii) whether or not further ablation is needed, and (iv) the boundary or periphery of the ablated geometry.
Further, sensors 42 prevent non-targeted tissue from being destroyed or ablated.Sensors 42 are of conventional design, including but not limited to thermistors, thermocouples, resistive wires, and the like. Suitable sensors 42 include a T type thermocouple with copper constantene, J type, E type, K type, fiber optics, resistive wires, thermocouple l:R detectors, and the like. It will be appreciated that sensors 42 need not be thermal sensors.
Sensors 42 measure temperature and/or impedance to permit ablation monitoring. This reduces damage to tissue surrounding the targeted ablation mass. By monitoring the temperature at various points within the interior of thebody structure the periphery of ablation can be ascertained and it is possible to determine when the ablation is completed. If at any time sensor 42 determines that a desired ablation temperature is exceeded, then an appropriate feedback signal is received at energy source 40 and the amount of energy delivered is reg~ ted.

CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 W 097/44092 PCT~US97/08784 Ablation or debulking apparatus 10 can include vi~u~li7.~tion capability including but not limited to a viewing scope, an expanded eyepiece, fiber optics, video im~ging, and the like.
Additionally, ultrasound im~ging can be used to position the ablation source delivery devices 12 and/or determine the amount of ablation. One or more ultrasound transducers 44 can be positioned in or on ablation source delivery device 12, catheter 14, or on a separate device. An im~ging probe may also be used internally or externally to the selected tissue site. A suitable im~ging probe is Model 21362, manufactured and sold by Hewlett Packard Company. Each ultrasound transducer 44 is coupled to an ultrasound source (not shown).
With reference now to Figure 6 catheter 14 is shown as being introduced into the oral cavity and multiple RF ab}ation source delivery devices 12 are advanced into the interior of the tongue creating di~er~nl ablation zones 46.
Using RF, ablation appa~ S 10 can be operated in either bipolar or monopolar modes. In Figure 6, electrodes 12 are operated in the bipolar mode, creating sufficient ablation zones 46 to debulk the tongue without affecting the hypoglossal nerves and creating a larger airway passage. With this debulking, the back of the tongue moves in a forward direction away from the air passageway. The result is an increase in the cross-sectional diameter of the airpassageway.
Using RF, ablation apparatus 10 can also be operated in the monopolar mode. A groundpad can be positioned in a convenient place such as under the chin. A single electrode 12 is positioned in the tongue to create a first ab}ation zone 46. Electrode 12 can then be retracted from the interior of the tongue, catheter 14 moved, and electrode 12 is then advanced from catheter 14 into another interior section of the tongue. A second ablation zone 46 is created.
This procedure can be completed any number of times to form di~rel1~ ablation regions in the interior of the tongue. More than one electrode 12 can be introduced into the tongue and operated in the bipolar mode. Electrodes 12 are CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 W O 97/44092 PCT~US97/08784 then repositioned in the interior of the tongue any number of times to create a plurality of connecting or non-connecting ablation zones 46.
Referring now to Figures 7 through 15, various anatomical views of the tongue and other structures are illustrated. The di~rerenl anatomical structuresare as follows: the genioglossus muscle, or body of the tongue is denoted as 48;the geniohyoid muscle is 50; the mylohyoid muscle is 52; the hyoid bone is 54;
the tip ofthe tongue is 56; the ventral surface ofthe tongue is denoted as 58; the dorsum of the tongue is denoted as 60; the inferior dorsal of the tongue is denoted as 62; the reflex of the vallecula is 64; the lingual follicles are denoted as 66; the uvula is 68; the adenoid area is 70; the lateral border of the tongue is 72;
the circumvallate papilla is 74, the palatine tonsil is 76; the pharynx is 78; the redl~n~nt pharyngeal tissue is 80; the foramen cecum is 82; the hypoglossal nerve is 84, and the lingual frenum of the tongue is 86.
Dorsum 60 is divided into an anterior 2/3 and inferior dorsal 62. The delineation is determined by circumvallate papilla 74 and foramen cecum 82.
Inferior dorsal 62 is the dorsal surface inferior to circumvallate papilla 74 and superior reflex of the vallecula 64. Reflex of the vallecula 64 is the deepest portion of the surface of the tongue contiguous with the epiglottis. Lingual follicles 66 comprise the lingual tonsil.
Catheter 14 can be introduced through the nose or through the oral cavity. Electrodes 12 can be inserted into an interior of the tongue through dorsum surface 60, inferior dorsal surface 62, ventral surface 58, tip 56 or geniohyoid muscle 50. Additionally, electrodes may be introduced into an interior of lingual follicles 66 and into adenoid area 70. Once electrodes 12 are positioned, insulation sleeve 32 may be adjusted to provided a desired electromagnetic energy delivery surface 30 for each electrode 12.
Ablation zones 46 are created without (l~m~ing hypoglossal nerves 84.
This creates a larger air way passage and provides a treatment for sleep apnea.
In all instances, the positioning of electrodes 12, as well as the creation of ablation zones 46 is such that hypoglossal nerves 84 are not ablated or damaged.The ability to swallow and speak is not impaired.

CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 In one embodiment, RF electrode 12 are placed on the dorsum surface of the tongue. The first electrode is positioned 0. 5 cm proximal to the circumvallate papilla. The other electrodes are spaced 1.6 cm apart and are 1 cmoffa central axis of the tongue. In one embodiment, 465 MEIz RF was applied.
The temperature at the distal end of electrode 12 was about 100 degrees C. The temperature at the distal end of the insulation sleeve 32 was about 60 degrees C.
In another embodiment, the temperature at the distal end of insulation sleeve 32was 43 degrees C and above. RF energy can be applied as short duration pulses with low frequency RF. Precise targeting of a desired ablation site is achieved.One or more electrodes 12 may be used to create volumetric three-dimensional ablation. A variety of ablation geometries are possible, inclll~ling but not limited to rectilinear, polyhedral, redetermined shapes, symmetrical and non-symmetrical.
Referring now to Figures 16 and 17 an open or closed loop feedback system couples sensors 42 to energy source 40. The temperature of the tissue, or of electrode 12 is monitored, and the output power of energy source 40 adjusted accordingly. Additionally, the level of disinfection in the oral cavity can be monitored. The physician can, if desired, override the closed or open loop system. A microprocessor can be included and incorporated in the closed or open loop system to switch power on and off, as well as modulate the power.
The closed loop system utilizes a microprocessor 88 to serve as a controller, watch the temperature, adjust the RF power, look at the result, refeed the result, and then modulate the power.
With the use of sensors 42 and the feedback control system a tissue adjacent to RF electrodes 12 can be m~int~ined at a desired tempelat~lre for a selected period of time without impeding out. Each RF electrode 12is connçcted to resources which generate an independent output for each RF
electrode 12. An output m~int~in~ a selected energy at RF electrodes 12 for a selected length of time.
When an RF electrode is used, current delivered through RF electrodes 12 is measured by current sensor 90. Voltage is measured by voltage sensor 92.

CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 W O 97/44092 PCT~US97/08784 Impedance and power are then calculated at power and impedance calculation device 94. These values can then be displayed at user interface and display 96.
Signals representative of power and impedance values are received by a controller 98.
A control signal is generated by controller 98 that is proportional to the difference between an actual measured value, and a desired value. The control signal is used by power circuits 100 to adjust the power output in an appropriate amount in order to m~int~in the desired power delivered at respective RF
electrodes 12.
In a similar manner, temperatures detected at sensors 42 provide feedback for m~int~ining a selected power. The actual temperatures are measured at temperature measurement device 102, and the temperatures are displayed at user interface and display 96. A control signal is generated by controller 98 that is proportional to the difference between an actual measured temperature, and a desired temperature. The control signal is used by power circuits 100 to adjust the power output in an appropriate amount in order to m~int~in the desired temperature delivered at the respective sensor. A
multiplexer can be incl~l(led to measure current, voltage and temperature, at the numerous sensors 42, and energy can be delivered to RF electrodes 12 in monopolar or bipolar fashion.
Controller 98 can be a digital or analog controller, or a computer with software. When controller 98 is a computer it can include a CPU coupled through a system bus. On this system can be a keyboard, a disk drive, or other non-volatile memory systems, a display, and other peripherals, as are known in the art. Also coupled to the bus is a program memory and a data memory.
User interface and display 96 includes operator controls and a display.
Controller 98 can be coupled to im~ging systems, including but not limited to ultrasound, CT scanners, X-ray, MRI, mammographic X-ray and the like.
Further, direct visualization and tactile im~ging can be utilized.
The output of current sensor 90 and voltage sensor 92 is used by controller 98 to m~int~in a selected power level at RF electrodes 12 as well as CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 W O 97/~4092 PCT~US97/08784 adjust the amount of conductive medium to electrode 12 to m~int~in a selected impedance level. The amount of RF energy delivered controls the amount of power. A profile of power delivered can be incorporated in controller 98, and a preset amount of energy to be delivered can also be profiled. Other sensors similar to sensors 90 and 92 can be used by controller 98 for other ablation source delivery devices 12 to m~int~in a controllable amount of an ablation energy and/or ablative agent.
Circuitry, software and fee~back to controller 98 result in process control, and the m~inten~nce of the selected power that is independent of changes in voltage or current, and are used to change, (i) the selected power, (ii) the duty cycle ~on-offand wattage), (iii) bipolar or monopolar energy delivery, and (iv) infusion medium delivery, including flow rate and pressure.
These process variables are controlled and varied, while m~int~ining the desireddelivery of power independent of changes in voltage or current, based on temperatures monitored at sensors 42.
Current sensor 90 and voltage sensor 92 are connected to the input of an analog amplifier 104. Analog amplifier 104 can be a conventional di~elel,lial amplifier circuit for use with sensors 42. The output of analog amplifier 104 issequentially connected by an analog multiplexer 106 to the input of A/D
converter 108. The output of analog amplifier 104 is a voltage which represents the respective sensed temperatures. Digitized amplifier output voltages are supplied by A/D converter 108 to microprocessor 88 Microprocessor 88 may be a type 68HCII available from Motorola. However, it will be appreciated that any suitable microprocessor or general purpose digital or analog computer can be used to calculate impedance or temperature.
Microprocessor 88 sequentially receives and stores digital representations of impedance and temperature. Each digital value received by microprocessor 88 corresponds to dirrerenl temperatures and impedances.
Calculated power and impedance values can be indicated on user interface and display 96. Alternatively, or in addition to the numerical indication of power or impedance, calculated impedance and power values can be CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 compared by microprocessor 88 with power and impedance limits. When the values exceed predetermined power or impedance values, a warning can be given on user interface and display 96, and additionally, the delivery of RF energy can be reduced, modified or interrupted. A control signal from microprocessor ~8 can modify the power level supplied by energy source 40.
Figure 18 illustrates a block diagram of a temperature/impedance feedback system that can be used to control conductive medium flow rate through catheter 14. Electromagnetic energy is delivered to electrode 12 by energy source 44, and applied to tissue. A monitor 1 10 ascertains tissue impedance, based on the energy delivered to tissue, and compares the measured impedance value to a set value. If the measured impedance exceeds the set value a signal 112 is ~ sllliLLed to conductive medium source in order to adJust the amount of conductive solution delivered to electrode 12 and to m~int~in the impedance at a selected level. If measured impedance is within acceptable limits, conductive medium continues to be applied to the tissue. During the application of energy to tissue sensor 42 measures the impedance of tissue and/or electrode 12. A comparator 1 14 receives a signal representative of the measured impedance and compares this value to a pre-set signal representative of the desired impedance. Comparator 114 sends a signal to a flow regulator 116 representing a need for a higher conductive medium flow rate, if the tissue impedance is too high, or to lower the flow rate if the measured impedance is atan acceptable level.
Referring now to Figure 19, energy source 40 is coupled to electrode 12, to apply a biologically safe voltage to the selected tissue site.
Measuring circuits determine the root mean square (RMS) values or m~gnitudes ofthe current and voltage. These values, leplt;sented as voltages, are inputted to a diving circuit D to geometrically calculate, by dividing the RMS
voltage value by the RMS current value, the impedance of the tissue site at sensor 42.
The output voltage of the divider circuit D is presented at the positive (+) input terminal of comparator A. A voltage source VO supplies a voltage across CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 W O 97/44092 PCTrUS97/08784 the variable resistor R~" thus allowing one to m~nll~lly adjust the voltage presented at the negative input of comparator A. This voltage represents a maximum impedance value beyond which power will not be applied to electrode 12.
The flow rate of conductive medium can be controlled based on the tissue impedance. In one embodiment, the switch S is activated to allow the impedance signal to enter the positive (+) input terminal of comparator A. This signal along with the reference voltage applied to the negative (-) input terminal ~ctu~tes comparator A to produce an output signal. If the selected tissue ablation site is heated to a biologically d~m~ging temperature, the tissue impedance will exceed a selected impedance value seen at the negative (-) input terminal, thereby generating a disabling signal to disable energy source 40, ceasing the power supplied to electrode 12.
The output signal of conlpa- ~lor A can be communicated to a pump coupled to the source of conductive medium. If the impedance of the selected tissue ablation site is too high, despite the tissue impedance falling within acceptable limits, the pump adjusts the rate of conductive medium flow applied to electrode 12.

Ablation apparatus 10 was used to determine two-dimensional shrinkage of a bovine. RF volumetric reduction was achieved using a single needle electrode. Four mini~t-lre ultrasonic crystals were positioned to form a square.Measurements were taken at control and post volumetric reduction at 15 watts initially with a 13% volumetric reduction, and 15 watts for 4 hours with an additional 4% volumetric reduction. A total 17% volumetric reduction was achieved.

Ablation appal~lus lO was used to determine three-dimensional shrinkage of a bovine tongue. RF volumetric reduction was achieved with a single needle electrode with eight mini~ture ultrasonic crystals, creating a cube.
Application of 16 watts initially produced a 17% volumetric reduction of the , . . . _ . . .

CA 022~3847 1998-11-09 W O 97/44092 PCT~US97/08784 tongue, 25 watts applied initially produced a 25% volumetric reduction, and 25 watts after hours produced an additional 4% reduction, for a total volumetric reduction of 29%.

A 35% volumetric reduction was achieved in porcine in vivo, with three dimensional gross at 20 watts initial application.
Referring now to Figure 19, ablation volume dimensions were measured with a multidimensional digital sonomicrometry. An average decrease in the Z
direction was 20%, and volume shrinkage was 26%. Three-dimensional shrinkage of tongue tissue due to in vivo RF ablation with the needle, ablation with 20 Watts) is presented in Figure 20. Control volume before ablation is compared with a post-ablation volume.
Figure 20 illustrates two-dimensional shrinkage of a bovine tongue tissue due to RF ablation with a needle electrode. The before and after ablation results are illustrated.
Figure 21 illustrates in graph form ablation at 16 Watts resulted in a 17%
volume shrinkage of the tissue in post-ablation verses control. Ablation at 25 watts resulted in a 25% volume shrinkage after ablation. An additional 4% area shrinkage was obtained after in long-term post ablation (4 hours) verses post-ablation.
Figure 22 illustrates a percent volume change after RF ablation. 16 Watts, ablation at 16 Watts for 20 minl1tes; 25 Watts, ablation at 25 Watts for 20 minlltes; 25 Watts (4 hours), and long tern post ablation (4 hours after 25 Watts ablation).
The foregoing description of a prerel, ed embodiment of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Obviously, many modifications and variations will be appalellL to practitioners skilled in this art. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the following claims and their equivalents.
What is claimed is:

Claims (29)

1. An apparatus for ablating at least a portion of an interior of a body structure, comprising:
a catheter including a catheter interior and a port formed in a body structure of the catheter;
an ablation energy delivery device at least partially positioned in the catheter interior and configured to be advanced from the port into the interior of the body structure to a selected tissue site and deliver an ablation energy to the selected site, wherein the ablation energy delivery device is configured to be coupled to an ablation energy source;
a sensor coupled to the ablation energy source, wherein the sensor is positionable in the interior of the body structure and measures an impedance of at least a portion of the selected tissue site;
a conductive medium introduction member coupled to a source of a conductive medium and the catheter;
a feedback control means coupled to the sensor and the conductive medium source, wherein the feedback control means provides a controlled delivery of the conductive medium to the selected tissue site in response to a level of measured impedance; and a cable coupled to the ablation energy delivery device.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:
an ablation energy delivery device advancement and retraction device at least partially positioned in the interior of the catheter.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the conductive medium introduction member is a lumen at least partially positioned in an interior of the catheter.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the ablation energy delivery device includes an interior hollow lumen and an outflow port.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the conductive medium introduction member is coupled to the ablation energy delivery device.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:
a cooling element including a cooling medium inlet conduit and a cooling medium exit conduit both extending through an interior of the catheter forming at least a partial cooled catheter tissue interface surface, wherein the ablation energy delivery device has an ablation energy delivery surface that is thermallyisolated from the cooling element.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:
an insulation sleeve positioned in a surrounding relationship to at least a portion of an exterior surface of the ablation energy delivery device.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sensor is positioned at a distal end of the ablation energy delivery device.

9. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the sensor positioned at a distal end of the ablation energy delivery device and a second sensor is positioned at a distal end of the insulation sleeve.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the ablation energy delivery device is an RF electrode.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:
a comparator device configured to compare a measured impedance of a tissue site to a predetermined impedance value and generate a signal representative of a difference between the measured impedance and the predetermined impedance.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, further comprising:
a fluid control device for regulating a rate of flow of the conductive medium through an ablation energy delivery device lumen in response to the signal from the comparator device.

13. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:
an energy output control device coupled to the energy source.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the energy output control device comprises:
an impedance measuring device for measuring an impedance value of tissue based on an energy applied to the tissue;
an impedance comparator device for comparing the measured impedance value of tissue to a predetermined maximum impedance value, the impedance comparing device generating a disabling signal if the measured impedance value exceeds the predetermined maximum impedance value; and a communication device for communicating the disabling signal to the energy source to cease further delivery of energy from the energy source to the ablation energy delivery device.

15. A method for reducing a volume of a tongue, comprising:
providing an ablation apparatus including a source of ablation energy, an ablation energy delivery device and a conductive medium introduction member coupled to a source of a conductive medium;
advancing at least a portion of the ablation energy delivery device into an interior of the tongue;

delivering a sufficient amount of energy from the energy delivery device into the interior of the tongue to debulk a selected section of the tongue without damaging a hypoglossal nerve;
measuring an impedance of the selected section of the tongue; and introducing the conductive medium to the selected section of the tongue to modify the impedance.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the energy source is an RF
source and the ablation energy delivery device is an RF electrode.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the energy source is a coherent source of light and the ablation energy delivery device is an optical fiber.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein the energy source is a heated fluid and the ablation energy delivery device is a catheter with a closed channel configured to receive the heated fluid.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein the energy source is a heated fluid and the ablation energy delivery device is a catheter with an open channelconfigured to receive the heated fluid.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein the energy source is a cooled fluid and the ablation energy delivery device is a catheter with a closed channel configured to receive the cooled fluid.

21. The method of claim 15, wherein the energy source is a cooled fluid and the ablation energy delivery device is a catheter with an open channelconfigured to receive the cooled fluid.

22. The method of claim 15, wherein the energy source is a cryogenic fluid.

23. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the energy source is a microwave source providing energy from 915 MHz to 2.45 GHz and the ablation energy delivery device is a microwave antenna.

24. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the energy source is an ultrasound source and the ablation energy delivery device is an ultrasound emitter.

25. The method of claim 15, wherein the energy source is a microwave source.

26. The method of claim 15, wherein the electrode is advanced into an interior of the tongue through a ventral surface of the tongue.

27. The method of claim 15, wherein the ablation energy delivery device is advanced into an interior of the tongue through an inferior dorsal surface of the tongue.

28. The method of claim 15, wherein the ablation energy delivery device is advanced into an interior of the tongue through a dorsum surface of the tongue.

29. The method of claim 15, wherein the ablation energy delivery device is advanced into an interior of the tongue through a tip of the tongue.