IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON THE ACCURIAN™ REUSABLE RADIOFREQUENCY
PROBE
Note: not all parts may be available in each geography.
PURPOSE
The intended purpose of the Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe is the creation of radiofrequency lesions in nervous tissue.
Medtronic does not warrant use of instruments, accessories, or any component parts upon which repairs have been made or
attempted, except as performed by Medtronic or an authorized Medtronic repair representative. Implied warranties of
merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or use are specifically excluded.
For US audiences only
Caution: Federal law (USA) restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.
DESCRIPTION
The Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe is an individual electrode used in combination with an RF Cannula for RF energy delivery. It
is comprised of an active electrode shaft, a handle, and a cable with a 7-pin connector. It is inserted through an RF Cannula and
positioned using fluoroscopy or ultrasound. It delivers radiofrequency (RF) through the active tip of the RF Cannula. A
thermocouple in the probe measures electrode temperature throughout the procedure. See Figure 1 for more details.
DEVICE LIFETIME
The devices have a finite lifetime that is determined based on the state of the device during the inspection and its ability to
perform its intended use. Users are instructed to complete visual checks prior to use to ensure device integrity.
Surgeon note: although the surgeon is the learned intermediary between the company and patient, the important medical
information in this document should be conveyed to the patient.
INDICATIONS
The Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe is intended for the creation of radiofrequency lesions in nervous tissue.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Use of the Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe is contraindicated in patients with systemic infection or local infection in area of the
procedure.
WARNINGS
▪ Do not use in patients who have electronic implants such as cardiac pacemakers without first consulting a qualified
professional (e.g. cardiologist). A possible hazard exists because interference with the action of the electronic implant may
occur, or the implant may be damaged.
▪ Check the compatibility and safety of combinations of other physiological monitoring and electrical apparatus to be used on
the patient while operating the Accurian™ RF Ablation System.
▪ If the patient has a spinal cord, deep brain, or other stimulator, contact the manufacturer to determine if the stimulator needs
to be in the OFF position.
▪ This procedure should be reconsidered in patients with any prior neurological deficit.
▪ The Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe is supplied non-sterile. It must be cleaned and sterilized prior to use as specified in the
Instructions for Use (IFU).
▪ The Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe is a reusable device. Failure to properly clean and sterilize can cause patient injury
and/or the communication of infectious disease(s) from one patient to another.
▪ Refer to the ASRA guidelines for recommendations on anti-coagulant use in combination with pain procedures.
▪ The procedure is to be performed with minimal to moderate sedation to allow the patient to remain in a communicative state
for patient feedback. The use of general anesthesia is not recommended.
▪ Adequate measures must be taken to minimize x-ray exposure while using fluoroscopy. This exposure can result in acute
radiation injury as well as increased risk for somatic and genetic effects.
▪ Do not modify the equipment as this may compromise safety and efficacy.
▪ When the Accurian™ RF Generator is activated, electrical fields may interfere with other electrical medical equipment.
▪ During power delivery, the patient should not be allowed to come in contact with grounded metal surfaces.
▪ Discontinue use if inaccurate, erratic, or sluggish temperature readings are observed. Use of damaged equipment may
cause patient injury.
▪ For safe use of the Accurian™ RF Ablation System, the surgeon should have specific training, experience, and thorough
familiarity with the use and application of this product.
▪ Do not remove or withdraw the device while energy delivery is ongoing. There is a rare potential for localized skin burns if
the RF lesion is formed in insufficient subcutaneous tissue (<15mm) or within 15mm of a shallow metal implant.
▪ Use standard electrosurgical cautions when using the Accurian™ RF Ablation System in the vicinity of nerves and nerve
roots.
▪ Do not touch the electrode while power is being applied.
▪ Ablation must be performed under fluoroscopic or ultrasonic guidance. Do not perform ablation without imaging as it can
result in severe injury to the patient.
▪ When using this device, the Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe must be positioned such that when ablation is performed per
the lesion size graphs (Figure 3) and equation (Equation 1), vessel and non-targeted nerve roots are beyond the ablation
zone. Failure to consider the lesion size can result in severe injury to the patient.
PRECAUTIONS
Do not attempt to use the Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe before thoroughly reading the accompanying IFU, and the IFU for the
Accurian™ RF Generator and the dispersive electrode.
▪ Do not modify the device.
▪ Use care when handling the devices.
▪ Disconnect the Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe from the Accurian™ Standard Connector Hub by pulling the connector, not
the connector cable.
▪ Handle the Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe safely when it is in use due to electric currents and the hot electrode.
▪ Do not bend, kink or otherwise stress the Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe as this may make it difficult to insert into the
cannula or otherwise impair the function of the electrode.
▪ The surgeon must determine, assess, and communicate to each individual patient all foreseeable risks of the RF procedure.
▪ Accurian™ Reusable RF Probes are supplied with a protective tube to prevent damage of the RF electrode during handling.
This tube must be removed for cleaning and replaced for sterilization.
ADVERSE EVENTS
The Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe is used with other components of the Accurian™ RF Ablation System in RF lesion
procedures. Adverse events associated with the use of this device are similar to those indicated for medicated and anesthetic
methods utilized in other surgical procedures. Potential complications include but are not limited to:
▪ As a consequence of electrosurgery, damage to surrounding tissue through iatrogenic injury could occur.
▪ Nerve injury including thermal injury, puncture of the spinal cord or nerve roots potentially results in radiculopathy, paresis,
and paralysis.
▪ Infection including deep or superficial wound infection.
▪ Increased pain.
▪ Visceral injury.
▪ Failure of technique.
INSPECTION PRIOR TO USE
Prior to using the device, inspect the probe for residual moisture. Ensure the RF Probes are dry before beginning procedure.
Residual moisture may cause malfunctions damage. Perform the following checks prior to the procedure. These steps will allow
you to verify that the equipment you will use is in proper working order. Do these tests in a sterile environment.
Visual Inspection: ensure RF Probes and RF Generator Connector Hub cables have no visible damage such as discoloration,
cracks, label fading, cable splice, or kinks. Do not use damaged or defective equipment.
EQUIPMENT
The Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe is for use in Accurian™ RF procedures performed in specialized clinical settings. The
equipment in the Accurian™ RF Ablation System is as follows (Figure 2):
Accessory/Applied PartsPart ClassificationPart number
1. Accurian™ RF Generator with Desk StandN/AAG1000
The ValleyLab™ dispersive electrode E7507 has been validated for use with this system.
DIRECTIONS FOR USE
Assemble all equipment required for the procedure. Set up the Accurian™ RF Generator as directed in its IFU. Connect the
Accurian™ Standard Connector Hub and the dispersive electrode to the Accurian™ RF Generator as described in its
corresponding IFU. Figure 2 is a schematic representation of the connections of the system.
Unwrap the sterilized probe in the sterile field using appropriate sterile techniques. Inspect the devices visually to make sure
there is no damage to them. Do not perform the procedure with damaged equipment.
Accurian™ RF Cannula (supplied separately)
Follow the IFU provided with the Cannula to position it into the desired ablation site. Ensure the cannula tip is in the correct
position using fluoroscopy or ultrasound. Remove the stylet to create an access channel for the probe.
Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe
1. Connect the Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe(s) to the 7-pin connector on the Accurian™ Standard Connector Hub.
2. Insert the Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe(s) into the tissue, ensuring the probe handle is pushed fully into the Cannula.
Never force the probe if significant resistance is felt.
3. Using radiographic imaging or ultrasound, confirm the tip of the Accurian™ RF Cannula is in the desired location. If the
cannula position needs to be adjusted, ensure that either the Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe or the accompanying stylet is
inserted into the Cannula prior to moving the Cannula position.
4. Sensory Stimulation mode will be automatically selected in the Accurian™ RF Generator upon successful detection of a
valid Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe. Set advanced settings and the parameters for RF delivery in the Generator as
described in the Accurian™ RF Generator IFU.
5. Perform the procedure as described in the Accurian™ RF Generator IFU. The procedure comprises sensory and motor
stimulation and RF delivery, either via Lesion Mode for thermal ablation, or Pulsed Mode for Pulsed RF procedures.
Note: other than reproduction of their usual referred pain or irritation due to probe introduction, monitor the patient for
unexpected symptoms that may indicate, for example, spinal cord or nerve root irritation. If these indications are suspected,
discontinue energy delivery.
6. After treatment, remove the probes and cannula. Discard the cannula as biohazards. Discard the dispersive electrode
appropriately. Disconnect the Accurian™ RF Reusable Probe from the Accurian™ Standard Connector Hub. Process the
Reusable Probe per the CLEANING AND STERILIZATION section in the IFU.
DEVICE MODELS
The probe models in the Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe range are as follows:
▪ Stainless Steel
▪ 50mm length, compatible with 50mm long 16G-22G cannula
▪ 100mm length, compatible with 100mm long 16G-22G cannula
▪ 150mm length, compatible with 150mm long 16G-22G cannula
▪ Nitinol
▪ 50mm length, compatible with 50mm long 16G-22G cannula
▪ 100mm length, compatible with 100mm long 16G-22G cannula
▪ 150mm length, compatible with 150mm long 16G-22G cannula
CLEANING AND STERILIZATION
The manufacturer recommends the user implement a quality control program for each sterilization cycle that includes, but is not
limited to recording:
▪ Type of sterilizer and cycle used
▪ Lot control number
▪ Load contents
▪ Exposure time and temperature (if a recording chart is available, this may be sufficient)
▪ Operator’s name
▪ Results of sterilization process monitoring (i.e. biological, chemical, mechanical indicators)
INSTRUCTIONS – Instruments Only
Bringing a new
instrument into
service
▪ Devices are supplied non-sterile. Cleaning and sterilization are required prior to use.
▪ Remove all packaging material prior to cleaning and sterilization.
▪ Remove all visible soil from instruments using non-shedding wipes.
▪ Instruments should be thoroughly cleaned within 30 minutes of use to minimize the potential for drying.
▪ If the instruments cannot be reprocessed immediately, keep the devices moist during transport.
Point of use
Note: do not let the end connectors soak.
▪ Place instruments in a tray of softened tap water (except end connectors), if available, or cover with
damp towels.
INSTRUCTIONS – Instruments Only
▪ Immediately transport the tray containing the covered instruments to a work area dedicated to further
Containment and
transportation
Preparation for
cleaning
reprocessing.
▪ Soiled instruments should be transported separately from non-contaminated instruments to avoid
contamination of personnel and surroundings.
▪ Remove the metal protective tube from the probe prior to cleaning.
▪ Instruments may be safely and effectively processed using manual (enzymatic) cleaning procedures as
outlined below.
▪ Rinse, flush, and scrub instruments under running cold tap water at a temperature of <110°F (<43°C)
for a minimum of 3 minutes. Scrub instruments with appropriately-sized, soft bristle brushes or pipecleaners to remove visible soil.
▪ Scrub until all visible soil is removed.
Note: do not let the end connectors soak. Wipe connectors with clean lint-free cloth until they are
visually clean.
Manual cleaning:
enzymatic
▪ Using tap water, prepare an enzymatic cleaning solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions,
dilution recommendations, and temperatures.
▪ Place probe and probe cable (except end connectors) in the enzymatic cleaner, submerge completely,
and soak 25-30 minutes. Ensure all surfaces, lumens, and components are in contact with the cleaning
solution.
▪ Scrub again with a soft bristle brush.
▪ Remove instruments from the enzymatic cleaning solution and flush for a minimum of 30 seconds
using de-ionized water.
▪ Visually inspect parts for debris. If any is present, repeat the cleaning process. Do not proceed with
reprocessing of a soiled instrument.
▪ Dry the devices using clean, absorbent, non-shedding wipes. Perform a visual inspection for dryness
Drying: manual
and repeat if necessary.
▪ Instruments should be completely dry before packaging for sterilization.
▪ Carefully inspect the instrument for damage by performing a thorough examination as referenced in the
Inspection and
reassembly
INSPECTION PRIOR TO USE and VISUAL INSPECTION section of this document.
▪ Replace the stainless steel protective sheath for protection of the delicate electrode.
▪ If the instrument is damaged, contact Medtronic immediately to arrange for disposal or replacement. Do
not proceed with reprocessing of a damaged device.
▪ A standard autoclave pouch must be used. Refer to manufacturer’s instructions for size and sealing
Packaging
requirements.
▪ Only instruments manufactured and/or distributed by Medtronic should be included.
▪ Proceed to the STERILIZATION INSTRUCTIONS section.
STERILIZATION INSTRUCTIONS: Instruments
▪ Place probes with protective tubes into surgical sterilization pouches. The protective tube should be loosely
mated with the handle.
▪ Inspect the pouch to ensure no rips, punctures, or seal failures are present in or on the pouch prior to loading
into the sterilizer.
▪ Load the pouches into the sterilizer by following the sterilizer manufacturer’s recommended loading
procedures and load configurations.
▪ Follow the sterilizer manufacturer’s recommended procedures to program the sterilizer with the sterilization
cycle parameters in the following table.
Sterilization
CycleTemperatureExposure Time
Pre-vacuum270°F (132°C)4 minutes30 minutes
1
Minimum dry times were validated using sterilizers having vacuum drying capabilities. Drying cycles using
ambient atmospheric pressure may require longer dry times. Refer to the sterilizer manufacturer’s
recommendations.
Chamber size and chamber load differences may exist between industrial and health care facility sterilizer
models. The sterilization parameters in the previous table can be achieved in both health care facility and
larger, industrial sterilizer models. Because of the many variables involved in sterilization, each health care
facility should calibrate and verify the sterilization process (e.g. temperatures, times) used for their
equipment.
Minimum Dry Time
1
STERILIZATION INSTRUCTIONS: Instruments
Note: steam for sterilization should be generated from water treated to remove total dissolved solids and
non-condensable gases, filtered to remove contaminates and water droplets, and supplied via piping without
dead legs or other stagnant zones where contamination may collect.
Caution: ethylene oxide (EO), gas plasma, gamma irradiation, chemical vapor, or dry heat sterilization
methods are not recommended for sterilization of these devices. Steam/moist heat is the recommended
method of sterilization.
Ensure the pouched probes are dry before storing. Store in dry, clean conditions at ambient room temperature.
Storage and
Shelf-Life
Temperature range recommended for storage is -20°C to 50°C or the temperature range specified by the legally
marketed sterilization pouch manufacturer. Shelf life of sterilized RF probes is dependent upon the legally
marketed sterilization pouch. The health care facility should establish a shelf life for sterilized instrumentation
based upon the type of sterilization pouch used and the recommendations of the sterile pouch manufacturer.
TROUBLESHOOTING
ProblemTroubleshooting
▪ Ensure all connections are made.
No temperature measurement
OR
Inaccurate, erratic, or sluggish
temperature reading
Probe Connector does not fit in Probe
Plug-in
Probe is not recognized by
Accurian™ RF Generator
Damage is observed to handle,
connector, or any part of the device.
▪ Check for an error message on the generator.
▪ Ensure devices are dry and at room temperature. If devices are not at room
temperature, wait until they have reached temperature and retry.
▪ Visually inspect the probe or probe cable for damage. If problem persists,
discontinue use.
▪ Check that the connector's keys are lined up in the proper orientation.
▪ Check that the Connector hub is the Accurian™ Standard Connector hub.
▪ Ensure the connectors are clean and unobstructed.
▪ Check that the Connector hub is the Accurian™ Standard Connector hub.
▪ Check that the connector is not damaged.
▪ Check that the Accurian™ Reusable RF Probe has not been used before.
Do not use. Discard immediately.
PACKAGING
Packages for each of the components should be intact upon receipt. All components should be carefully checked for
completeness and to ensure there is no damage prior to use. Damaged packages or products should not be used and should
be returned to Medtronic. Contact Medtronic for return information.
VISUAL INSPECTION
Visually inspect the device before use. If the device is damaged, do not use the product. Contact Medtronic for return
information.
MRI INFORMATION
Medtronic instruments and accessories are not intended to be used in the magnetic resonance (MR) environment. As such,
Medtronic instruments and accessories were not evaluated for safety and compatibility in the MR environment. Therefore, safety
of Medtronic instruments and accessories in the MR environment is unknown.
PRODUCT COMPLAINTS
To report product problems, contact Medtronic.
Patients in the European Union experiencing a serious incident in relation to the device should contact Medtronic and the
competent authority of the Member State in which they are established.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Recommended directions for use (surgical operative techniques) are available at no charge upon request. If further information
is required, contact Medtronic.
After the EUDAMED website is launched, the Summary of Safety and Clinical Performance (SSCP) can be found at https://
ec.europa.eu/tools/eudamed.
The size of a RF lesion is affected by the exposed surface area of the active tip (both the active tip length and cannula
diameter), the Set Temperature, and the Procedural Time (excluding the Ramp Time). Typical lesion size graphs over time are
shown for an 18G cannula at a Set Temperature of 80°C in Figure 3. The value of the Y coordinate for the graph on the left
represents lesion length (mm). The value for the Y coordinate for the graph on the right represents lesion width (mm).
Figure 3: Lesion size (Y) graph for 18G cannula at a Set Temperature of 80°C and Procedural time (X)
Y
XX
Y
To estimate the length (L) and Width (W) of lesion for any Probe, the following equations may be used:
Equation 1: Lesion size equations
L =-7.95 + 0.86D + 0.89A + 0.14T + 0.75t
W =-8.47 + 1.40D + 0.28A + 0.14T + 0.88t
Where A is the Cannula Active Tip Length in millimeter, D is the Cannula Diameter in millimeter, T is the Set Temperature in
degree C, and t is the Procedural Time (excluding the Ramp Time) in minute.
These equations are valid within the following ranges for the factors:
D = 16G (1.65mm), 18G (1.27mm), 20G (0.91mm), and 22G (0.72mm)
A = 5 and 10mm
T = 70, 80, and 90°C
t = 1, 2, and 3 min