In general, the invention provides a transurethral ablation device
comprising an electrode for delivery of neurostimulation therapy to a
patient to prevent or alleviate pain experienced during the course of a
transurethral ablation procedure. The device may include a conductive
ablation needle that delivers electrical current for ablation of prostate
tissue, as well as neurostimulation current to prevent or alleviate pain
encountered in response to the ablation current. In this sense, the
ablation needle is integrated with a neurostimulation electrode.
Alternatively, the device may incorporate a dedicated neurostimulation
electrode independently of the ablation needle, either on the needle or
on a catheter body that carries the needle.