A thermal neuromodulation apparatus, system, and methods for the ablative and non-ablative application of thermal energy to the renal nerves of a patient are disclosed. The thermal neuromodulation apparatus includes an elongated, hollow body configured to traverse the tortuous intravascular pathways of the renal vasculature and includes an expandable structure bearing electrodes and configured to selectively apply thermal energy via electric fields to the renal nerves through a vessel wall. The thermal neuromodulation apparatus may also include sensors and an imaging apparatus to obtain data from the treatment area before, during, and after neuromodulation to monitor and/or control the neuromodulation process.
