A tubal sterilization device having sesquipolar electrodes includes a
hollow catheter defining an interior passageway, the catheter including a
first end for insertion transcervically into a patient, and a second end
opposite the first end for grasping and manipulation by a physician. The
device further includes an electrode tip situated at the first end of the
catheter. The electrode tip includes a first portion having a first
electrode, the first portion being preferably formed generally conically
in shape so that it may be snugly fit into the tubal osteum of the
fallopian tube. The electrode tip further includes a second portion
having a second electrode which is a coil formed from a wire which is
helically wrapped about an insulating spacer or support. The second
portion of the electrode tip with the second electrode may be retracted
within a bore formed axially within the first portion of the electrode
tip and may selectively extended therefrom for placement within the
intramural segment of the fallopian tube. A slider linkage within the
hollow catheter moves the second portion and second electrode between its
retracted position and extended position. Bipolar RF (radio frequency)
energy is provided to the first and second electrodes to cause the
selective heating of tissue within the intramural segment of the
fallopian tube.