Methods and apparatus are provided for pulsed electric field
neuromodulation via an intra-to-extravascular approach, e.g., to
effectuate irreversible electroporation or electrofusion, necrosis and/or
inducement of apoptosis, alteration of gene expression, changes in
cytokine upregulation and other conditions in target neural fibers. In
some embodiments, the ITEV PEF system comprises an intravascular catheter
having one or more electrodes configured for intra-to-extravascular
placement across a wall of patient's vessel into proximity with target
neural fibers. With the electrode(s) passing from an intravascular
position to an extravascular position prior to delivery of the PEF, a
magnitude of applied voltage or energy delivered via the electrode(s) and
necessary to achieve desired neuromodulation may be reduced relative to
an intravascular PEF system having one or more electrodes positioned
solely intravascularly. The methods and apparatus of the present
invention may, for example, be used to modulate one or more target neural
fibers that contribute to renal function.