Valleylab Introduces New Cool-tip™ RF Switching Controller

Allows Physicians to Use Up to Three Electrodes Simultaneously; Maximizes Energy Delivery for Larger Ablations

CHICAGO, Ill., November 28, 2004, RSNA Booth #6505 – Valleylab, a business unit of Tyco Healthcare Group LP, today announced the introduction of the new Cool-tip™ RF switching controller for the precise, controlled ablation of local primary and lesions, including those in the liver. This new technology enables physicians to use up to three electrodes simultaneously, allowing them ablate larger volumes of tissue or create multiple separate lesions in one ablation cycle. Using radiofrequency current, the system strongly benefits patients who are not ideal surgical candidates or are otherwise unable to be successfully treated with other methods.

The new Cool-tip™ RF switching controller, used in conjunction with the Cool-tip™ generator, utilizes a unique combination of radiofrequency current and internal electrode cooling to effectively heat and coagulate large volumes of tissue. In order to deliver the maximum amount of energy to ablate the tissue rapidly, full power is delivered to each Cool-tip™ needle independently. The switching controller then uses a closed loop impedance feedback system to sense when the desired impedance level is achieved. Once this occurs, the unit automatically directs RF energy to the next electrode.

“We’ve found that radiofrequency ablation is an exceptional choice for patients who might not be able to be treated through alternative methods. With the Cool-tip™ RF switching controller, physicians can now more efficiently treat patients with larger or multiple lesions,” said Scott Drake, president of Valleylab.

During the procedure, the Cool-tip™ RF switching controller monitors all critical performance variables including impedance, temperature, amperage, and power. For added safety, the technology can also monitor lesion temperature using the distal temperature measurement feature. Other key benefits include ease of electrode placement, as compared to sequential overlapping lesions, and easier needle track cauterization. For more information about Valleylab’s new Cool-tip™ RF switching controller, please call 800.255.8522.

Valleylab, a business unit of Tyco Healthcare Group LP, is the leader in the innovation and manufacture of advanced energy-based medical systems, including a complete line of electrosurgical generators, accessories, and disposable products, a vessel sealing system, patient return electrodes, argon-enhanced electrosurgery systems, laparoscopic instruments, radiofrequency treatment systems, and smoke evacuation devices.

Tyco Healthcare is a leading manufacturer, distributor, and servicer of medical devices worldwide. Its broad portfolio includes disposable medical supplies, monitoring equipment, medical instruments, and bulk analgesic pharmaceuticals, sold under such names as Auto Suture, Kendall, Mallinckrodt, Nellcor, Puritan Bennett, Sherwood, United States Surgical, Syneture, Valleylab, and others.