System for adjusting an ablation field using a microwave field-detecting needle assembly

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

0001The present disclosure relates to electrosurgical devices suitable for use in tissue ablation applications and, more particularly, to microwave field-detecting needle assemblies, methods of manufacturing the same, methods of adjusting an ablation field radiating into tissue using the same, and systems including the same.

2. Discussion of Related Art

0002Treatment of certain diseases requires the destruction of malignant tissue growths, e.g., tumors. Electromagnetic radiation can be used to heat and destroy tumor cells. Treatment may involve inserting ablation probes into tissues where cancerous tumors have been identified. Once the probes are positioned, electromagnetic energy is passed through the probes into surrounding tissue.

0003In the treatment of diseases such as cancer, certain types of tumor cells have been found to denature at elevated temperatures that are slightly lower than temperatures normally injurious to healthy cells. Known treatment methods, such as hyperthermia therapy, heat diseased cells to temperatures above 41° C while maintaining adjacent healthy cells below the temperature at which irreversible cell destruction occurs. These methods involve applying electromagnetic radiation to heat, ablate and/or coagulate tissue. Microwave energy is sometimes utilized to perform these methods. Other procedures utilizing electromagnetic radiation to heat tissue also include coagulation, cutting and/or ablation of tissue.

0004Electrosurgical devices utilizing electromagnetic radiation have been developed for a variety of uses and applications. A number of devices are available that can be used to provide high bursts of energy for short periods of time to achieve cutting and coagulative effects on various tissues. There are a number of different types of apparatus that can be used to perform ablation procedures. Typically, microwave apparatus for use in ablation procedures include a microwave generator that functions as an energy source and a microwave surgical instrument (e.g., microwave ablation probe) having an antenna assembly for directing energy to the target tissue. The microwave generator and surgical instrument are typically operatively coupled by a cable assembly having a plurality of conductors for transmitting microwave energy from the generator to the instrument, and for communicating control, feedback and identification signals between the instrument and the generator.

0005The particular type of tissue ablation procedure may dictate a particular ablation volume in order to achieve a desired surgical outcome. Ablation volume is correlated with antenna design, antenna performance, antenna impedance, ablation time and wattage, and tissue characteristics, e.g., tissue impedance.

0006Because of the small temperature difference between the temperature required for denaturing malignant cells and the temperature normally injurious to healthy cells, a known heating pattern and precise temperature control is needed to lead to more predictable temperature distribution to eradicate the tumor cells while minimizing the damage to surrounding normal tissue. In some cases, it may be difficult for the physician to determine when a microwave ablation probe is inserted to a proper depth within tissue, e.g., to reach the location of the ablation site and/or to avoid unintended radiation exposure.

0007<patcit id="pcit0001" dnum="US2010145328A1"><text>US 2010/145328 A1</text></patcit> discloses a portable electrosurgical system for treating biological tissue with microwave radiation. The system comprises a hand-held microwave sub-assembly which generates and amplifies a microwave signal (which may be continuous or modulated) for treatment and includes a treatment antenna for delivering the radiation. Diode detectors detect forward and reflected power levels to enable determination of net delivered power.

0008<patcit id="pcit0002" dnum="US2010268218A1"><text>US 2010/268218 A1</text></patcit> discloses an ablation system which transmits radio frequency (RF) energy for the ablation of biological tissues and has a transmission line and an RF antenna disposed at the distal portion of the transmission line. An RF signal generator supplies RF energy to the proximal end of the cable for transmission to the antenna, and an electrically tunable transformer is connected between the signal generator and the antenna. The transformer is tuned based on detection of the reflected power level from the antenna so as to reduce or minimize reflected power, thereby increasing RF energy coupling between the antenna and tissue

0009<patcit id="pcit0003" dnum="WO2010092328A1"><text>WO 2010/092328 A1</text></patcit> discloses a kin tissue measurement/treatment apparatus for delivering electromagnetic radiation to a localised region of skin tissue via a monopole antenna adapted to penetrate the skin surface. An applicator has a plurality of independently controllable monopole antennas protruding therefrom for selective treatment/measurement of an area of skin. Treatment may be activated based on the complex impedance of tissue in the localised region calculated by determined the magnitude and phase of reflected power relative to a reference signal. The power level of the generated electromagnetic radiation may be adaptively controlled based on the detection of net power delivered to the skin tissue.

0010<patcit id="pcit0004" dnum="EP2316370A1"><text>EP 2 316 370 A1</text></patcit> A1 (published after the priority date claimed by the present application) discloses a system for monitoring ablation size including a power source with a microprocessor for executing control algorithms. A microwave antenna is configured to deliver microwave energy from the power source to tissue to form an ablation zone. A radiation detection device is operably disposed on the microwave antenna. The radiation detection device is configured to generate a voltage corresponding to a radius of the ablation zone, wherein the radiation detection device is in operative communication with a module associated with the power source.

0011<patcit id="pcit0005" dnum="EP2407205A1"><text>EP 2 407 205 A1</text></patcit> A1 (published after the priority date claimed by the present application) discloses an electrosurgical ablation system with an energy source adapted to supply energy to an energy delivery device. The energy delivery device includes a handle assembly configured to two antennas extending from a distal end of the handle assembly to the energy source for application of energy to tissue.

SUMMARY

0012The invention is defined in claim 1.

0013The present disclosure relates to method of adjusting an ablation field radiating into tissue including the initial steps of providing an energy applicator and providing one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies. Each microwave field-detecting needle assembly includes one or more rectifier elements capable of detecting microwave field intensity via rectification. The method includes the steps of positioning the energy applicator and the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies in tissue, transmitting energy from an energy source through the energy applicator to generate an ablation field radiating about at least a portion of the energy applicator into tissue, and adjusting the ablation field radiating about at least the portion of the energy applicator into tissue based on at least one electrical signal transmitted by the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies.

0014The present disclosure also relates to method of adjusting an ablation field radiating into tissue including the initial steps of providing an energy applicator operably coupled to an energy source and providing one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies. Each microwave field-detecting needle assembly includes one or more rectifier elements capable of detecting microwave field intensity via rectification. The method includes the steps of positioning the energy applicator and the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies in tissue, transmitting energy from the energy source through the energy applicator to generate an ablation field radiating about at least a portion of the energy applicator into tissue, and adjusting the ablation field radiating about at least the portion of the energy applicator into tissue by adjusting at least one operating parameter associated with the energy source based on at least one electrical signal transmitted by the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies.

0015The present disclosure also relates to a microwave ablation control system including a microwave field-detecting needle assembly and a control unit in operable communication with the microwave field-detecting needle assembly. The microwave field-detecting needle assembly includes at least one rectifier element capable of detecting microwave field intensity via rectification. The microwave ablation control system also includes an electrosurgical power generating source in operable communication with the control unit and an energy-delivery device operably coupled to the electrosurgical power generating source.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

0016Objects and features of the presently-disclosed microwave field-detecting needle assemblies, methods of manufacturing the same, methods of adjusting an ablation field radiating into tissue using the same, and systems including the same will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art when descriptions of various embodiments thereof are read with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which: <dl id="dl0001"><dt>FIG. 1</dt><dd>is a perspective view of microwave field-detecting needle assembly including a needle assembly and a handle assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 2</dt><dd>is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the indicated area of detail of <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> showing a distal portion of the needle assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 3</dt><dd>is an enlarged view of the indicated area of detail of <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> showing a schematic diagram of an electric circuit (shown in phantom lines in <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>) disposed within the handle assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 4</dt><dd>is perspective view of a microwave field-detecting system including an embodiment of a microwave field-detecting needle assembly and an embodiment of a control unit in accordance with the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 5</dt><dd>is perspective view with parts separated of the microwave field-detecting needle assembly of <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 6</dt><dd>is perspective view of an inner-conductor pin including a distal end configured with a retaining portion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 7</dt><dd>is perspective view of a portion of a needle assembly including a first outer-conductor structure coupled to the retaining portion and disposed around a distal portion of the inner-conductor pin shown in <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 6</figref> according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 8</dt><dd>is a perspective view of the portion of the needle assembly of <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 7</figref> shown with a tubular sleeve member disposed around a length of the inner-conductor pin proximal to the threaded portion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 9</dt><dd>is a perspective view of the portion of the needle assembly of <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 8</figref> shown with a junction structure disposed around a portion of the tubular sleeve member and threadedly coupled to the proximal end of the first outer-conductor structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 10</dt><dd>is a perspective view of the portion of the needle assembly of <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 9</figref> shown with a second outer-conductor structure disposed around a proximal portion of the tubular sleeve member and threadedly coupled to the distal end of the junction structure, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 11</dt><dd>is a perspective view of the portion of the needle assembly of <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 10</figref> shown with a rectifier element disposed separately from and positioned above a rectifier-receiving recess defined in the junction structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 12</dt><dd>is a perspective view of the portion of the needle assembly of <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 11</figref> shown with the rectifier element disposed in the rectifier-receiving recess according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 13</dt><dd>is a perspective view of the portion of the needle assembly of <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 12</figref> shown with an outer jacket disposed around the first outer-conductor structure, second outer-conductor structure and the junction structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 14</dt><dd>is a cross-sectional view of the portion of the needle assembly of <figref idref="f0006">FIG. 13</figref> according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 15</dt><dd>is a schematically-illustrated representation of a standing wave coupled to the needle assembly of <figref idref="f0006">FIG. 13</figref> according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 16</dt><dd>is a perspective view of a first side of another embodiment of a needle assembly in accordance with the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 17</dt><dd>is a perspective view of a second side of the needle assembly of <figref idref="f0007">FIG. 16</figref> according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 18</dt><dd>is a schematic perspective view of an electrosurgical system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 19</dt><dd>is a block diagram of an embodiment of the electrosurgical power generating source of <figref idref="f0008">FIG. 18</figref> in accordance with the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 20</dt><dd>is a flowchart illustrating a method of method of manufacturing a needle assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;</dd><dt>FIG. 21</dt><dd>is a flowchart illustrating a method of method of manufacturing a microwave field-detecting needle assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and</dd><dt>FIG. 22</dt><dd>is a flowchart illustrating a method of adjusting an ablation field radiating into tissue.</dd></dl>

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

0017Hereinafter, embodiments of microwave field-detecting needle assemblies, methods of manufacturing the same, methods of adjusting an ablation field radiating into tissue using the same, and systems including the same of the present disclosure are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Like reference numerals may refer to similar or identical elements throughout the description of the figures. As shown in the drawings and as used in this description, and as is traditional when referring to relative positioning on an object, the term "proximal" refers to that portion of the apparatus, or component thereof, closer to the user and the term "distal" refers to that portion of the apparatus, or component thereof, farther from the user.

0018This description may use the phrases "in an embodiment," "in embodiments," "in some embodiments," or "in other embodiments," which may each refer to one or more of the same or different embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure. For the purposes of this description, a phrase in the form "A/B" means A or B. For the purposes of the description, a phrase in the form "A and/or B" means "(A), (B), or (A and B)". For the purposes of this description, a phrase in the form "at least one of A, B, or C" means "(A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B and C)".

0019Electromagnetic energy is generally classified by increasing energy or decreasing wavelength into radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays and gamma-rays. As it is used in this description, "microwave" generally refers to electromagnetic waves in the frequency range of 300 megahertz (MHz) (3 x 10⁸ cycles/second) to 300 gigahertz (GHz) (3 x 10¹¹ cycles/second). As it is used in this description, "transmission line" generally refers to any transmission medium that can be used for the propagation of signals from one point to another.

0020As it is used in this description, "ablation procedure" generally refers to any ablation procedure, such as, for example, microwave ablation, radiofrequency (RF) ablation, or microwave or RF ablation-assisted resection. As it is used in this description, "energy applicator" generally refers to any device that can be used to transfer energy from a power generating source, such as a microwave or RF electrosurgical generator, to tissue. For the purposes herein, the term "energy applicator" is interchangeable with the term "energy-delivery device".

0021As it is used in this description, "rectifier" generally refers to circuit components that allow more electric current to flow in one direction than in the other. Rectifiers may be made of solid-state diodes, vacuum-tube diodes, mercury-arc valves, and other components. Processes that make use of rectifiers include rectification, which, simply defined, is the conversion of alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). As it is used in this description, "diode" generally refers to electronic devices that allow electric current to flow in only one direction, while inhibiting current flow in the other. For the purposes herein, the term "diode" is interchangeable with the term "rectifier".

0022As it is used in this description, "printed circuit board" (or "PCB") generally refers to any and all systems that provide, among other things, mechanical support to electrical components, electrical connection to and between these electrical components, combinations thereof, and the like.

0023As it is used in this description, "length" may refer to electrical length or physical length. In general, electrical length is an expression of the length of a transmission medium in terms of the wavelength of a signal propagating within the medium. Electrical length is normally expressed in terms of wavelength, radians or degrees. For example, electrical length may be expressed as a multiple or sub-multiple of the wavelength of an electromagnetic wave or electrical signal propagating within a transmission medium. The wavelength may be expressed in radians or in artificial units of angular measure, such as degrees. The electric length of a transmission medium may be expressed as its physical length multiplied by the ratio of (a) the propagation time of an electrical or electromagnetic signal through the medium to (b) the propagation time of an electromagnetic wave in free space over a distance equal to the physical length of the medium. The electrical length is in general different from the physical length. By the addition of an appropriate reactive element (capacitive or inductive), the electrical length may be made significantly shorter or longer than the physical length.

0024Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide microwave field-detecting needle assemblies adapted to enable physicians to detect microwave field intensity in proximity to an energy-delivery devices, e.g., to ensure patient and/or physician safety and/or to provide for improved control over applied energy. Microwave field-detecting needle assembly embodiments may be implemented as passive devices. In some embodiments, microwave field-detecting needle assemblies may be monitored by a stand-alone control unit. Microwave field-detecting needle assembly embodiments may be integrated into a feedback control loop within a microwave ablation control system.

0025Microwave field-detecting needle assembly embodiments may be suitable for utilization in open surgical applications. Embodiments may be used in minimally invasive procedures, e.g., endoscopic and laparoscopic surgical procedures. Portions of the presently-disclosed microwave field-detecting needle assemblies may be disposable, replaceable and/or reusable.

0026Various embodiments of the presently-disclosed microwave field-detecting needle assembly are adapted to be coupled in communication with a stand-alone control unit (e.g., 28 shown in <figref idref="f0002">FIG. 4</figref>).

0027An electrosurgical system (also referred to herein as a "microwave ablation control system") including an energy-delivery device(s) and one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies according to various embodiments is designed and configured to operate at frequencies between about 300 MHz and about 10 GHz. The presently-disclosed microwave ablation control systems are suitable for microwave or RF ablation and for use to pre-coagulate tissue for microwave or RF ablation-assisted surgical resection. In addition, although the following description describes embodiments of a microwave field-detecting needle assembly capable of detecting electromagnetic radiation at microwave frequencies, the teachings of the present disclosure may also apply to electromagnetic radiation at RF frequencies or at other frequencies.

0028<figref idref="f0001 f0002">FIGS. 1 through 3</figref> show an embodiment of a microwave field-detecting needle assembly (shown generally as 100 in <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>). Microwave field-detecting needle assembly 100 generally includes a handle assembly 170 and a needle assembly 110. <figref idref="f0002">FIG. 3</figref> shows a schematic diagram of an electric circuit 300 (shown in phantom lines in <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>) disposed within a handle housing 174 of the handle assembly 170. Needle assembly 110 is shown with parts separated in <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 5</figref>.

0029As shown in <figref idref="f0001">FIGS. 1, 2</figref> and <figref idref="f0003">5</figref>, the needle assembly 110 generally includes a distal portion 130, a proximal portion 160, and a junction member 150 disposed between the distal portion 130 and the proximal portion 160. In some embodiments, the distal portion 130 and the proximal portion 160 align at the junction member 150, which is generally made of a dielectric material. In some embodiments, the junction member 150 may be configured to be mechanically coupleable (e.g., threadedly coupleable) to the distal portion 130 and/or the proximal portion 160. In some embodiments, the distal portion 130 includes a first outer-conductor structure 30, the proximal portion 160 includes a second outer-conductor structure 60, and the junction member 150 includes a junction structure 50. The shape and size of the needle assembly 110 and the handle assembly 170 may be varied from the configuration depicted in <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>.

0030As shown in <figref idref="f0001">FIGS. 2</figref> and <figref idref="f0003">5</figref>, needle assembly 110 includes an inner-conductor pin 20, a tubular sleeve member 40 disposed around at least a portion of the inner-conductor pin 20, a first outer-conductor structure 30, a second outer-conductor structure 60, a junction structure 50 disposed between the first outer-conductor structure 30 and the second outer-conductor structure 60, and one or more rectifiers 58 disposed in one or more recesses 56 defined in the junction structure 50. Inner-conductor pin 20 has a suitable outer diameter "D₁" (<figref idref="f0003">FIG. 5</figref>). The distal end 22 of the inner-conductor pin 20 includes a retaining portion 23. In some embodiments, the retaining portion 23 may be externally threaded. In one embodiment, the proximal end 21 of the inner-conductor pin 20 is coupled to the handle assembly 170. Inner-conductor pin 20 may be electrically coupled to an electric circuit 300, which is described in more detail later in this disclosure, disposed within the handle assembly 170.

0031Various components of the needle assembly 110 may be formed of suitable, electrically-conductive materials, e.g., copper, gold, silver, or other conductive metals or metal alloys having similar conductivity values. Electrically-conductive materials used to form the inner-conductor pin 20, the first outer-conductor structure 30 and/or the second outer-conductor structure 60 may be plated with other materials, e.g., other conductive materials, such as gold or silver, to improve their properties, e.g., to improve conductivity, decrease energy loss, etc.

0032In some embodiments, the inner-conductor pin 20, the first outer-conductor structure 30 and/or the second outer-conductor structure 60 may be formed of a rigid, electrically-conductive material, such as stainless steel. In some embodiments, the inner-conductor pin 20 is formed from a first electrically-conductive material (e.g., stainless steel) and the first outer-conductor structure 30 and/or the second outer-conductor structure 60 is formed from a second electrically-conductive material (e.g., copper). In some embodiments, the inner-conductor pin 20, the first outer-conductor structure 30 and/or the second outer-conductor structure 60 may be formed of a flexible, electrically-conductive material, such as titanium.

0033Tubular sleeve member 40 includes a body 44 that defines a longitudinally-extending internal bore or chamber 45 configured to receive at least a portion of the inner-conductor pin 20 therein. Body 44 has a suitable outer diameter "D₂" as shown in <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 5</figref>. Tubular sleeve member 40 may be formed from any suitable dielectric material, including, but not limited to, ceramics, mica, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) (e.g., TEFLON^®, manufactured by E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company of Wilmington, Delaware, United States), glass, metal oxides or other suitable insulator, and may be formed in any suitable manner. In the embodiment shown in <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 2</figref>, tubular sleeve member 40 is disposed around a length of the inner-conductor pin 20 proximal to the retaining portion 23.

0034Junction member embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure include a junction structure having one or more recesses (e.g., one recess 56 shown in <figref idref="f0001">FIGS. 2</figref>, <figref idref="f0003">5</figref> and <figref idref="f0004 f0005">9-12</figref>, or a plurality of recesses 1656 shown in <figref idref="f0007">FIG. 16</figref>) defined therein. As best shown in <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 11</figref>, the recess 56 is configured to receive a rectifier 58 therein. Rectifier 58 may include one or more diodes, e.g., Zener diode, Schottky diode, tunnel diode and the like, and/or other suitable component(s) capable of converting AC to DC.

0035Junction structure 50 may be formed of any suitable elastomeric or ceramic dielectric material by any suitable process. In some embodiments, the junction structure 50 may be formed of a composite material having low electrical conductivity, e.g., glass-reinforced polymers. In some embodiments, the junction structure 50 is formed by over-molding and includes a thermoplastic elastomer, such as, for example, polyether block amide (e.g., PEBAX^®, manufactured by The Arkema Group of Colombes, France), polyetherimide (e.g., ULTEM^® and/or EXTEM^®, manufactured by SABIC Innovative Plastics of Saudi Arabia) and/or polyimide-based polymer (e.g., VESPEL^®, manufactured by E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company of Wilmington, Delaware, United States). Junction structure 50 may be formed using any suitable over-molding compound by any suitable process, and may include use of a ceramic substrate.

0036In an embodiment, as best shown in <figref idref="f0002">FIG. 3</figref>, electric circuit 300 is disposed within the handle housing 174 of the handle assembly 170. In one embodiment, electric circuit 300 may be formed as a printed circuit board, with components thereof connected by traces on an epoxy resin substrate.

0037Handle housing 174 provides a ground reference "G" for the circuit 300. An indicator unit 4, or component thereof, is coupled to the handle housing 174. Indicator unit 4 may include audio and/or visual indicator devices to provide information/feedback to a user. In the embodiment shown in <figref idref="f0001">FIGS. 1</figref> and <figref idref="f0002">3</figref>, the indicator unit 4 is adapted to generate a visual signal and includes a light source, such as a light-emitting diode 9. Indicator unit 4 may additionally, or alternatively, be adapted to generate an audio signal and may include an audio circuit with a speaker (not shown).

0038The proximal end 21 of the inner-conductor pin 20 (shown in cross section in <figref idref="f0002">FIG. 3</figref>) is electrically coupled to a first terminal of a filter circuit 5. Filter circuit 5 includes a second terminal electrically coupled to an amplifier circuit 7, and may include a ground terminal electrically coupled to the handle housing 174. Filter circuit 5 may include an RF filter block. In one embodiment, the filter circuit 5 may be an inductor-resistor-capacitor (LCR) low-pass filter that is adapted to convert a rectified sinusoidal waveform from the rectifier elements 58 into an electrical signal, which may be a DC voltage signal representative of the detected microwave field intensity.

0039As shown in <figref idref="f0002">FIG. 3</figref>, circuit 300 includes a power source 3 that is electrically coupled to the amplifier circuit 7. Power source 3 may include a ground terminal electrically coupled to the handle housing 174. Power source 3 may include any combination of battery cells, a battery pack, fuel cell and/or high-energy capacitor. A battery pack may include one or more disposable batteries. In such case, the one or more disposable batteries may be used as a primary power source for the amplifier circuit 7. In some embodiments, a transmission line 11 (<figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>) is provided to connect the microwave field-detecting needle assembly to a line source voltage or external power source (shown generally as 2 in <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>), in which case a battery pack may be provided for use as a backup power source.

0040<figref idref="f0002">FIG. 4</figref> schematically illustrates an embodiment of a microwave field-detecting system (shown generally as 10) that includes a stand-alone control unit 28 operably coupled to a microwave field-detecting needle assembly 400. Microwave field-detecting needle assembly 400 is similar to the microwave field-detecting needle assembly 100 of <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>, except that microwave field-detecting needle assembly 400 includes a handle assembly 470 configured to operably couple the needle assembly 110 to a cable assembly 15. Cable assembly 15 may be any suitable transmission line. Cable assembly 15 may include a proximal end 14 suitable for connection to the control unit 28.

0041Handle assembly 470 includes an indicator unit 412 that is suitably configured to provide information/feedback to a user. Indicator unit 412 is similar to the indicator unit 4 shown in <figref idref="f0002">FIG. 3</figref> and further description thereof is omitted in the interests of brevity. The shape and size of the handle assembly 470 and the indicator unit 412 may be varied from the configuration depicted in <figref idref="f0002">FIG. 4</figref>.

0042Control unit 28 may include a user interface 27 in operable communication with a processor unit 29. User interface 27 may include audio and/or visual indicator devices to provide information/feedback to a user. Processor unit 29 may be any type of computing device, computational circuit, or any type of processor or processing circuit capable of executing a series of instructions that are stored in a memory (not shown) associated with the processor unit 29. Processor unit 29 may be adapted to run an operating system platform and application programs. Microwave field-detecting needle assembly 400 and the control unit 28 may utilize wired communication and/or wireless communication. In the embodiment illustrated in <figref idref="f0002">FIG. 4</figref>, the microwave field-detecting needle assembly 400 is electrically connected via the cable assembly 15 to a connector 16, which further operably connects the microwave field-detecting needle assembly 400 to a terminal 19 of the control unit 28.

0043<figref idref="f0003">FIG. 5</figref> shows the needle assembly 110 with parts separated in accordance with the present disclosure. As described above with reference to <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 2</figref>, the needle assembly 110 includes an inner-conductor pin 20, first outer-conductor structure 30, second outer-conductor structure 60, tubular sleeve member 40, junction structure 50, and one or more rectifiers 58.

0044As shown in <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 5</figref>, the first outer-conductor structure 30 defines a first chamber portion 36 and a second chamber portion 35. First chamber portion 36 is disposed at the distal end 32 of the first outer-conductor structure 30. Second chamber portion 35 is disposed in communication with the first chamber portion 36 and includes an opening disposed at the proximal end 31 of the first outer-conductor structure 30. In some embodiments, the first chamber portion 36 is configured to matingly engage, e.g., threadedly engage, with the retaining portion 23 of inner-conductor pin 20, and the second chamber portion 35 is configured to receive at least a portion of the tubular sleeve member 40 therein.

0045First outer-conductor structure 30 may be provided with an end cap 37. End cap 37 generally includes a tapered portion 33, which may terminate in a sharp tip 34 to allow for insertion into tissue with minimal resistance. Tapered portion 33 may include other shapes, such as, for example, a tip 34 that is rounded, flat, square, hexagonal, or cylindroconical. End cap 37 may be formed of a material having a high dielectric constant, and may be a trocar, e.g., a zirconia ceramic. First outer-conductor structure 30 and end cap 37 may be formed separately from each other, and coupled together, e.g., with the aid of adhesive or solder. First outer-conductor structure 30 and end cap 37 may form a single, unitary structure. The shape and size of the first outer-conductor structure 30 and the end cap 37 may be varied from the configuration depicted in <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 5</figref>.

0046Second outer-conductor structure 60 defines a longitudinally-extending internal bore or chamber 65 that extends from the proximal end 61 to the distal end 62 of the second outer-conductor structure 60. Chamber 65 is configured to receive at least a portion of the tubular sleeve member 40 therein.

0047Junction structure 50 defines a longitudinally-extending internal bore or chamber 55 therein and generally includes a distal end 52 adapted for connection to the first outer-conductor structure 30 and a proximal end 51 adapted for connection to the second outer-conductor structure 60. In some embodiments, the junction structure 50 includes a distal end 52 provided with a series of external threads configured to matingly engage with a series of internal threads disposed at the proximal end 31 of the first outer-conductor structure 30, and a proximal end 51 provided with a series of external threads configured to matingly engage with a series of internal threads disposed at the distal end 62 of the second outer-conductor structure 60. The shape and size of the junction structure 50 may be varied from the configuration depicted in <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 5</figref>.

0048<figref idref="f0004 f0005 f0006">FIGS. 6 through 13</figref> show a sequentially-illustrated, assembly of components forming the needle assembly 110 in accordance with the present disclosure. <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 6</figref> shows the inner-conductor pin 20. As described above, inner-conductor pin 20 may be formed of any suitable electrically-conductive material (e.g., metal such as stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, copper, etc.) of any suitable length. The shape and size of the inner-conductor pin 20 may be varied from the configuration depicted in <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 6</figref>.

0049As cooperatively shown in <figref idref="f0004">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref>, inner-conductor pin 20 includes a distal end 22 including a retaining portion 23 that is configured to be connectable, e.g., electrically and mechanically, to the first outer-conductor structure 30. In some embodiments, the retaining portion 23 is provided with a series of external threads configured to matingly engage with a series of internal threads disposed within the first chamber portion 36 of the first outer-conductor structure 30. Alternatively, mechanical fasteners, grooves, flanges, adhesives, and welding processes, e.g., laser welding, or other suitable joining method may be used to attach (or clip, connect, couple, fasten, secure, etc.) the inner-conductor pin 20 to the first outer-conductor structure 30. As shown in <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 7</figref>, a longitudinal axis "A" - A" is defined by the inner-conductor pin 20.

0050As cooperatively shown in <figref idref="f0004 f0005">FIGS. 8 through 10</figref>, tubular sleeve member 40 is configured to be receivable within second chamber portion 35 of the first outer-conductor structure 30, chamber 55 of the junction structure 50 and chamber 60 of the second outer-conductor structure 60. <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 8</figref> shows the tubular sleeve member 40 joined together with the inner-conductor pin 20 and the first outer-conductor structure 30 such that the tubular sleeve member 40 is coaxially-disposed about the length of the inner conductor 20 proximal to the retaining portion 23 and disposed at least in part within the second chamber portion 35 of the first outer-conductor structure 30. In an embodiment, the tubular sleeve member 40 is positioned around the inner-conductor pin 20 after the retaining portion 23 is coupled to the end cap 37, e.g., as shown in <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 8</figref>. Tubular sleeve member 40 may, alternatively, be positioned, formed, adhered or otherwise disposed around at least a portion of the inner-conductor pin 20 prior to the introduction of the inner-conductor pin 20 into the second chamber portion 35 of the first outer-conductor structure 30.

0051<figref idref="f0004">FIG. 9</figref> shows the portion of the needle assembly of <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 8</figref> shown with junction structure 50 disposed around a portion of the tubular sleeve member 40 and coupled to the first outer-conductor structure 30. Junction structure 50 may be coupled to the first outer-conductor structure 30 by any suitable manner of connection. In the embodiment shown in <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 9</figref>, junction structure 50 includes a distal end 52 provided with a series of external threads configured to matingly engage with a series of internal threads disposed at the proximal end 31 of the first outer-conductor structure 30. The junction structure 50 and the first outer-conductor structure 30 (as well as other components described herein) may be assembled together with the aid of alignment pins, snap-like interfaces, tongue and groove interfaces, locking tabs, adhesive ports, etc., utilized either alone or in combination for assembly purposes.

0052<figref idref="f0005">FIG. 10</figref> shows the portion of the needle assembly of <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 9</figref> shown with second outer-conductor structure 60 disposed around a portion of the tubular sleeve member 40 and coupled to the proximal end 51 of the junction structure 50. In the embodiment shown in <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 10</figref>, second outer-conductor structure 60 includes a distal end 62 provided with a series of internal threads configured to matingly engage with a series of external threads disposed at the proximal end 51 of the junction structure 50.

0053<figref idref="f0005">FIG. 11</figref> shows the portion of the needle assembly of <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 10</figref> shown with rectifier element 58 disposed above rectifier-receiving recess 56 in the junction structure 50. Rectifier element 58 includes a first lead wire or pin 59a (also referred to herein as a "terminal") and a second lead wire or pin 59b. Rectifier-receiving recess 56 may be configured to receive the rectifier element 58 such that the first pin 59a and the second pin 59b are substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis "A" - A" defined by the inner-conductor pin 20.

0054<figref idref="f0005">FIG. 12</figref> shows the portion of the needle assembly of <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 11</figref> shown with the rectifier element 58 disposed in the rectifier-receiving recess 56. First pin 59a is electrically coupled to the first outer-conductor structure 30 by any suitable manner of electrical connection, e.g., soldering, welding, or laser welding. Second pin 59b is electrically coupled to the second outer-conductor 60 by any suitable manner of electrical connection.

0055<figref idref="f0006">FIG. 13</figref> shows the portion of the needle assembly of <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 12</figref> shown with an outer jacket 90 disposed around the first outer-conductor structure 30, the second outer-conductor structure 60, and the junction structure 50. Outer jacket 90 may be formed of any suitable material, such as, for example, polymeric or ceramic materials. The outer jacket 90 may be applied by any suitable method, such as, for example, heat-shrinkage, extrusion, molding, coating, spraying, dipping, powder coating, baking and/or film deposition, or other suitable process.

0056In an embodiment, as best shown in <figref idref="f0006">FIG. 14</figref>, which shows the cross section of the needle assembly portion of <figref idref="f0006">FIG. 13</figref>, outer jacket 90 covers the rectifier element 58. In alternative embodiments, the outer jacket 90 may include an opening (not shown) configured to expose the rectifier element 58 and/or the junction structure 50, or portion thereof.

0057The position of the junction structure 50 and rectifier element 58, e.g., in relation to the tip 34, is one factor in determining the operational frequency of the microwave field-detecting needle assembly 100 in a given material, e.g., tissue. To obtain a microwave field-detecting needle assembly having a desired frequency, the junction structure 50 may be positioned at a location of high voltage along the expected standing wave that couples onto the probe, such as illustratively shown in <figref idref="f0006">FIG. 15</figref>. During a procedure, e.g., an ablation procedure, fields 1501, 1502 couple onto the microwave field-detecting needle assembly 100 from the energy supplied by an energy-delivery device (e.g., 12 shown in <figref idref="f0008">FIG. 18</figref>), e.g., a microwave ablation probe.

0058<figref idref="f0007">FIGS. 16 and 17</figref> show a needle assembly (shown generally as 1610) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure that is adapted to enable multi-frequency operation and/or multiple wavelength operation. Needle assembly 1610 is similar to the needle assembly 110 shown in <figref idref="f0001">FIGS. 1, 2</figref> and <figref idref="f0003">5</figref>, except for the configuration of the junction structure 1650, the first outer-conductor structure 1630 and the second outer-conductor structure 1660, and the plurality of rectifiers 1658 disposed in the plurality of recesses 1656.

0059Needle assembly 1610 includes a junction structure 1650 configured to separate a first outer-conductor structure 1630 and a second outer-conductor structure 1660 in a diagonal fashion. First outer-conductor structure 1630 and the second outer-conductor structure 1660 may be formed of any suitable electrically-conductive material, e.g., metal such as stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, copper, or the like. In some embodiments, the first outer-conductor structure 1630 is constructed from stainless steel, and may be coated in a high electrical conductivity, corrosion-resistant metal, e.g., silver, or the like.

0060As best shown in <figref idref="f0007">FIG. 16</figref>, the junction structure 1650 includes a plurality of recesses 1656 defined therein, wherein each recess 1656 is defined in a different outer-peripheral portion of the junction structure 1650 and configured to receive a rectifier 1658 therein. Rectifier 1658 is similar to the rectifier 58 shown in <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 2</figref> and further description thereof is omitted in the interests of brevity. Each rectifier 1658 may be configured to operate efficiently at separate frequencies allowing for probe use at multiple frequencies.

0061<figref idref="f0008">FIG. 18</figref> shows an electrosurgical system 1800 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure that includes an energy applicator or probe 12 operably coupled to an electrosurgical power generating source 26. In some embodiments, the probe 12 may be coupled in fluid communication with a coolant supply system (not shown).

0062Electrosurgical system 1800 (also referred to herein as a "microwave ablation control system") generally includes one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100 and a control unit 24 in operable communication with the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100. Control unit 24 and the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100 may utilize wired communication and/or wireless communication. Control unit 24 is similar to the control unit 28 shown in <figref idref="f0002">FIG. 4</figref> and further description thereof is omitted in the interests of brevity. Electrosurgical system 1800 according to various embodiments may include a feedback loop 18 suitable for use in controlling an energy applicator or probe 12 based on one or more electrical signals transmitted by one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100. Feedback loop 18 may utilize a cable connection and/or a wireless connection, e.g., a radiofrequency or infrared link.

0063In some embodiments, the microwave ablation control system 1800 may adjust the ablation field radiating about at least a portion of the energy applicator 12 into tissue by adjusting one or more operating parameters associated with the electrosurgical power generating source 26 based on one or more electrical signals transmitted by one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100. In the embodiment illustrated in <figref idref="f0008">FIG. 18</figref>, the plurality of microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100 in operable communication with the control unit 24 are operable coupled via the feedback loop 18 to the electrosurgical power generating source 26. Examples of operating parameters associated with the electrosurgical power generating source 26 include temperature, impedance, power, current, voltage, mode of operation, and duration of application of electromagnetic energy.

0064It is to be understood that, although one energy applicator 12 and three microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100 are shown in <figref idref="f0008">FIG. 18</figref>, electrosurgical system embodiments may utilize single or multiple energy applicators (or applicator arrays) and one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies. The single or multiple energy applicators and the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies may be arranged in any suitable configuration.

0065Electrosurgical power generating source 26 may be any generator suitable for use with electrosurgical devices, and may be configured to provide various frequencies of electromagnetic energy. In some embodiments, the electrosurgical power generating source 26 is configured to provide microwave energy at an operational frequency from about 300 MHz to about 10 GHz. In other embodiments, the electrosurgical power generating source 26 is configured to provide electrosurgical energy at an operational frequency from about 400 KHz to about 500 KHz.

0066In some embodiments, the electrosurgical power generating source 26 is configured or set to a predetermined setting. For example, electrosurgical power generating source 26 may be set to a predetermined temperature, such as a temperature that may be used for the treatment of pain (e.g., about 42° C or about 80° C), a predetermined waveform, a predetermined duty cycle, a predetermined time period or duration of activation, etc.

0067Electrosurgical power generating source 26 may include a user interface 25 (<figref idref="f0009">FIG. 19</figref>) in operable communication with a processor unit 82 (<figref idref="f0009">FIG. 19</figref>). Processor unit 82, which is described in more detail with respect to <figref idref="f0009">FIG. 19</figref>, may be any type of computing device, computational circuit, or any type of processor or processing circuit capable of executing a series of instructions that are stored in a memory. In an embodiment, a physician may input via the user interface 25 a selected power output, and the microwave ablation control system 1800 controls the probe 12 to automatically adjust the ablation volume by changing the operating frequency of the probe 12, e.g., based on at least one electrical signal transmitted by the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100.

0068In an embodiment, a physician may input via the user interface 25 a selected power output, and the microwave ablation control system 1800 controls the ablation field radiating about at least a portion of the energy applicator 12 into tissue based on one or more electrical signals transmitted by one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100, e.g., by rotation of a energy applicator with a directional radiation pattern to avoid ablating sensitive structures, such as large vessels, healthy organs or vital membrane barriers and/or by controlling the electrosurgical power generating source 26 operatively associated with an energy applicator 12.

0069During microwave ablation using the microwave ablation control system 1800, one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100 may be inserted into tissue "T" and/or placed adjacent a sensitive structure "S", and/or one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100 may be inserted into the abdominal wall "W" and/or into the abdominal cavity "C". Probe 12 is inserted into tissue "T" and/or placed adjacent to a lesion "L". Ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) guidance may be used to accurately guide the probe 12 into the area of tissue to be treated. Probe 12 and one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100 may be placed percutaneously or surgically, e.g., using conventional surgical techniques by surgical staff. After the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100 and the probe 12 are positioned, microwave energy is supplied to the probe 12.

0070A clinician may pre-determine the length of time that microwave energy is to be applied. Application duration may depend on many factors such as tumor size and location and whether the tumor was a secondary or primary cancer. The duration of microwave energy application using the probe 12 may depend on the progress of the heat distribution within the tissue area that is to be destroyed and/or the surrounding tissue. Treatment of certain tumors may involve probe repositioning during the ablation procedure, such as where the tumor is larger than the probe or has a shape that does not correspond with available probe geometry or radiation pattern.

0071<figref idref="f0009">FIG. 19</figref> is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the electrosurgical power generating source 26 of <figref idref="f0008">FIG. 18</figref>. In an embodiment, the generator module 86 is configured to provide energy of about 915 MHz. Generator module 86 may additionally, or alternatively, be configured to provide energy of about 2450 MHz (2.45 GHz). The present disclosure contemplates embodiments wherein the generator module 286 is configured to generate a frequency other than about 915 MHz or about 2450 MHz, and embodiments wherein the generator module 86 is configured to generate variable frequency energy. Electrosurgical power generating source 26 includes a processor 82 that is operably coupled to the user interface 25. Processor 82 may include any type of computing device, computational circuit, or any type of processor or processing circuit capable of executing a series of instructions that are stored in a memory, e.g., storage device 88 or external device 91.

0072In some embodiments, storage device 88 is operably coupled to the processor 82, and may include random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), and/or non-volatile memory (NV-RAM, Flash, and disc-based storage). Storage device 88 may include a set of program instructions executable on the processor 82 for executing a method for displaying and controlling ablation patterns in accordance with the present disclosure. Electrosurgical power generating source 26 may include a data interface 90 that is configured to provide a communications link to an external device 91. In some embodiments, the data interface 90 may be any of a USB interface, a memory card slot (e.g., SD slot), and/or a network interface (e.g., 100BaseT Ethernet interface or an 802.11 "Wi-Fi" interface.) External device 91 may be any of a USB device (e.g., a memory stick), a memory card (e.g., an SD card), and/or a network-connected device (e.g., computer or server).

0073Electrosurgical power generating source 26 may also include a database 84 that is configured to store and retrieve energy applicator data, e.g., parameters associated with one or energy applicators (e.g., 12 shown in <figref idref="f0008">FIGS. 18</figref> and <figref idref="f0009">19</figref>). Parameters stored in the database 84 in connection with an energy applicator, or energy applicator array, may include, but are not limited to, energy applicator (or applicator array) identifier, energy applicator (or applicator array) dimensions, a frequency, an ablation length, an ablation diameter, a temporal coefficient, a shape metric, and/or a frequency metric. In an embodiment, ablation pattern topology may be included in the database 84, e.g., a wireframe model of an applicator array and/or an ablation pattern associated therewith and/or an arrangement of microwave field-detecting needle assemblies for use in connection with one or more energy applicators.

0074Database 84 may also be maintained at least in part by data provided by the external device 91 via the data interface 90. For example without limitation, data associated with energy applicator 12 may be uploaded from an external device 91 to the database 84 via the data interface 90. Energy applicator data may additionally, or alternatively, be manipulated, e.g., added, modified, or deleted, in accordance with data and/or instructions stored on the external device 91. In an embodiment, the set of energy applicator data represented in the database 84 is automatically synchronized with corresponding data contained in the external device 91 in response to the external device 91 being coupled (e.g., physical coupling and/or logical coupling) to the data interface 90.

0075Processor 82 according to various embodiments is programmed to enable a user, via the user interface 25 and/or a display device (not shown), to view at least one ablation pattern and/or other data corresponding to an energy applicator or an applicator array. For example, a physician may determine that a substantially spherical ablation pattern is necessary. The physician may activate a "select ablation shape" mode of operation for electrosurgical power generating source 26, preview an energy applicator array by reviewing graphically and textually presented data, optionally, or alternatively, manipulate a graphic image by, for example, rotating the image, and select an energy applicator or an applicator array, based upon displayed parameters. The selected energy applicator(s) may then be electrically coupled to the electrosurgical power generating source 26 for use therewith.

0076Electrosurgical power generating source 26 may include an actuator 87. Actuator 87 may be any suitable actuator, e.g., a footswitch, a handswitch, an orally-activated switch (e.g., a bite-activated switch and/or a breath-actuated switch), and the like. Actuator 87 may be operably coupled to the processor 82 by a cable connection (e.g., 83 shown in <figref idref="f0008">FIG. 18</figref>) or a wireless connection, e.g., a radiofrequency or infrared link.

0077In an embodiment, a physician may input via the user interface 25 an applicator array parameter to cause the electrosurgical power generating source 26 to present one or more electromagnetic energy delivery devices corresponding thereto and/or one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies for use therewith. For example, a physician may require a 3.0 cm x 3.0 cm x 3.0 cm ablation pattern, and provide an input corresponding thereto. In response, the electrosurgical power generating source 26 may preview a corresponding subset of available electromagnetic energy delivery devices that match or correlate to the inputted parameter.

0078In an embodiment, a physician may input via the user interface 25 a selected power output, and the electrosurgical system 1800 controls the energy applicator 12 to adjust the ablation field radiating about at least a portion of the energy applicator 12 into tissue based on at least one electrical signal transmitted by the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies.

0079Hereinafter, a method of manufacturing a needle assembly in accordance with the present disclosure is described with reference to <figref idref="f0010">FIG. 20</figref>, a method of manufacturing a microwave field-detecting needle assembly in accordance with the present disclosure is described with reference to <figref idref="f0011">FIG. 21</figref>, and a method of adjusting an ablation field radiating into tissue is described with reference to <figref idref="f0012">FIG. 22</figref>. It is to be understood that the steps of the methods provided herein may be performed in combination and in a different order than presented herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

0080<figref idref="f0010">FIG. 20</figref> is a flowchart illustrating a method of manufacturing a needle assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In step 2010, an inner-conductor pin 20 is provided. A retaining portion 23 is disposed at a distal end 22 of the inner-conductor pin 20.

0081In step 2020, a first outer-conductor structure 30 is joined to the retaining portion 23.

0082In step 2030, a tubular sleeve member 40 is positioned overlying a length of the inner-conductor pin 20 proximal to the retaining portion 23. The tubular sleeve member 40 includes a longitudinally-extending internal chamber 45 configured to receive at least a portion of the inner-conductor pin 20 therein.

0083In step 2040, a junction structure 50 is joined to the proximal end 31 of the first outer-conductor structure 30, whereby the junction structure 50 is disposed around a portion of the tubular sleeve member 40. The junction structure 50 includes a recess 56 defined therein. The distal end 52 of the junction member 50 may be provided with a series of external threads configured to matingly engage with a series of internal threads disposed at the proximal end 31 of the first outer-conductor structure 30.

0084In step 2050, a second outer-conductor structure 60 is joined to the proximal end 51 of the junction structure 50. The proximal end 51 of the junction member 50 may be provided with a series of external threads configured to matingly engage with a series of internal threads disposed at the distal end 62 of the second outer-conductor structure 60.

0085In step 2060, a rectifier element 58 is position into the recess 56. In some embodiments, the rectifier element 58 includes a first terminal 59a and a second terminal 59b. In such cases, the first terminal 59a may be electrically coupled to the first outer-conductor structure 30 and the second terminal 59b may be electrically coupled to the second outer-conductor structure 60, e.g., by solder or other suitable electrical connection.

0086<figref idref="f0011">FIG. 21</figref> is a flowchart illustrating a method of manufacturing a microwave field-detecting needle assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In step 2110, a handle assembly 170 is provided. An electric circuit 300 is disposed within the handle assembly 170.

0087In step 2120, a needle assembly 110 is provided. The needle assembly 110 includes a first outer-conductor structure 30 coupled to an inner-conductor pin 20, a junction structure 50 disposed between the first outer-conductor structure 30 and a second outer-conductor structure 60, and a rectifier element 58 disposed in a recess 56 defined in the junction structure 50. A first terminal 59a of the rectifier element 58 is electrically coupled to the first outer-conductor structure 30, and a second terminal 59b is electrically coupled to the second outer-conductor structure 60.

0088In step 2130, the inner-conductor pin 20 and the second outer-conductor structure 60 are electrically coupled to an electric circuit 300 disposed within the handle assembly 170.

0089<figref idref="f0012">FIG. 22</figref> is a flowchart illustrating a method of adjusting an ablation field radiating into tissue. In step 2210, an energy applicator 12 is provided. In step 2220, one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100 are provided. Each microwave field-detecting needle assembly 100 includes one or more rectifier elements 58 capable of detecting microwave field intensity via rectification.

0090In step 2230, the energy applicator 12 and the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100 are positioned in tissue. The energy applicator 12 may be inserted directly into tissue, inserted through a lumen, e.g., a vein, needle, endoscope or catheter, placed into the body during surgery by a clinician, or positioned in the body by other suitable methods known in the art. The energy applicator 12 may be configured to operate with a directional radiation pattern. The one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100 may be positioned in material, e.g., tissue, by any suitable method and arranged in any configuration (e.g., configuration shown in <figref idref="f0008">FIG. 18</figref>).

0091In step 2240, energy is transmitted from an energy source 26 through the energy applicator 12 to generate an ablation field radiating about at least a portion of the energy applicator 12 into tissue. The energy source 26 may be any suitable electrosurgical generator for generating an output signal. In some embodiments, the energy source 26 is a microwave energy source, and may be configured to provide microwave energy at an operational frequency from about 300 MHz to about 10 GHz.

0092In step 2250, the ablation field radiating about at least the portion of the energy applicator 12 into tissue is adjusted based on at least one electrical signal transmitted by the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100. In some embodiments, adjusting the ablation field radiating about at least the portion of the energy applicator 12 into tissue, in step 2250, may include adjusting at least one operating parameter associated with the energy source 26 based on the at least one electrical signal transmitted by the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies 100. Examples of operating parameters associated with the energy source 26 include temperature, impedance, power, current, voltage, mode of operation, and duration of application of electromagnetic energy.

0093According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the above-described microwave field-detecting needle assembly enables physicians to detect field intensity in proximity to an energy-delivery device. The presently-disclosed microwave field-detecting needle assembly embodiments may allow the physician to determine if a microwave field is strong enough for the intended purpose or to achieve a desired surgical outcome.

0094The presently-disclosed microwave field-detecting needle assembly embodiments may be suitable for utilization in minimally invasive procedures, e.g., endoscopic and laparoscopic surgical procedures. The above-described microwave field-detecting needle assembly embodiments may be suitable for utilization in open surgical applications.

0095Various embodiments of the presently-disclosed microwave field-detecting needle assembly embodiments may allow the physician to determine when a microwave ablation probe is inserted to a proper depth within tissue, e.g., to reach the location of the ablation site and/or to avoid unintended field exposure. Various embodiments of the presently-disclosed microwave field-detecting needle assembly are adapted to be coupled in communication with a stand-alone control unit.

0096Electrosurgical systems including one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies according to embodiments of the present disclosure may protect sensitive structures, ensure expected field pattern and/or protect the abdominal wall from stray microwave fields.

0097The above-described microwave field-detecting needle assemblies may be used to detect microwave field intensity emitted by an energy applicator, and an electrical signal transmitted from the presently-disclosed microwave field-detecting needle assemblies may be used to control the positioning of an electrosurgical device (e.g., rotation of a energy applicator with a directional radiation pattern to avoid ablating sensitive structures, such as large vessels, healthy organs or vital membrane barriers), and/or control an electrosurgical power generating source operatively associated with an energy applicator.

0098Although embodiments have been described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings for the purpose of illustration and description, it is to be understood that the inventive processes and apparatus are not to be construed as limited thereby. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that various modifications to the foregoing embodiments may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure.