Courtney Johnson

Title: Courtney Johnson and Innovations in RF Ablation

Introduction

Courtney Johnson is an inventor based in Valencia, California, whose patent work focuses on medical technologies for radiofrequency (RF) ablation. Her inventions address electrode design and tools for creating access tunnels in vertebrae. Johnson is associated with Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation and holds 2 patents.

Latest Patents

Johnson’s recent patents describe devices and methods intended to support RF ablation procedures.

- **RF ablation systems with a bipolar RF electrode and methods for making and using.** This invention describes an RF ablation system with a bipolar electrode containing two electrodes. One design uses a metal tube with cuts that help it bend, while a multi-lumen tube can house conductors and provide column strength. The system may also use an adapter to connect the electrodes to separate RF generator channels, with different arrangements available for connecting the electrodes and a temperature sensor.

- **Tools for creating a vertebral tunnel for use in RF ablation and methods of making and using.** This invention describes a tool arrangement for forming a tunnel in a vertebra before nerve ablation. A tamp has a tip for creating the tunnel and a curvable portion that guides the tip along a curved path. A straight cannula receives and straightens the tamp, while a tool hub moves the tamp to extend or retract its curvable portion.

Career Highlights

Johnson’s patent portfolio reflects work on procedural tools and RF ablation systems. The inventions address practical design considerations, including electrode flexibility, conductor routing, generator connections, and controlled access through vertebral bone.

Collaborations

Johnson is associated with Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation. Her listed coworkers include Eric Koji Nagaoka and Jens Peter Timms.

Conclusion

Courtney Johnson’s patented work centers on RF ablation technology, combining bipolar electrode designs with tools for creating vertebral tunnels to support medical procedures.