The present invention provides systems, apparatus and methods for
selectively applying electrical energy to body tissue. A device is
provided having an enclosure within an outer wall formed from an
electrically-permeable material to allow for electrical energy to pass
from the interior of the enclosure through the outer wall. The device
further includes an electrode positioned within the interior of the
enclosure and a fluid passage coupled to the enclosure for delivery of an
electrically conductive fluid into the interior of the enclosure such
that the electrically conductive fluid couples the electrode with the
electrically-permeable section of the outer wall. The conductive fluid
allows for the passage of electrical energy from the electrode through
the fluid and the outer wall of the enclosure for treatment of tissue on
or in a patient. In this manner, the electrode does not directly contact
the tissue of the patient, which reduces the potential for collateral
tissue damage or necrosis and/or excessive electric fields in the tissue.