Systems and techniques for lung volume reduction

摘要

This invention provides least invasive instruments and methods for lung volume reduction. In one embodiment, a catheter has a collapsible working end electrode that can engage an artery wall in a plurality of locations in a patient's bronchial tree to deliver Rf energy to the vessel wall. The application of energy induces the vessel wall to shrink and occlude. The occlusion of the vessel will cause the tertiary bronchus to shrink and wither until cell death is caused wherein the tissue then will be resorbed by the patient's body.