Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080214887 | Brachytherapy apparatus and method using off-center radiation source - A brachytherapy applicator and method of use involve source guides that assume a desired curving, non-linear configuration. A flexible source catheter follows the shape of the source guides when inserted therein. Radiation dose received in various tissue areas can be better controlled using the invention, and the ratio of cavity surface dose to prescription depth dose can be lowered. With sequential manipulation of the source via movement of the catheter, the applicator can deliver radiotherapy to a treatment plan with local variation to prevent overdose, through either stepped or continuous movement of the source. Source guides can be fixed in position and arranged in bowed configuration around a generally central balloon axis, either attached to the balloon wall or not, and the series of off-center guides can be used to shape the dose delivered. | 09-04-2008 |
20080221383 | TISSUE EXCISION DEVICES AND METHODS - A tissue excision device comprises a handle. In addition, the tissue excision device comprises an elongate tissue capture member extending from the handle. The tissue capture member has a longitudinal axis and comprises a free end distal the handle. Further, the free end of the tissue capture member includes a tip, a tissue capture recess, and at least one slot extending through the free end in the tissue capture recess. Still further, the tissue excision device comprises an elongate tubular cutting member coupled to the handle. The cutting member slidingly and coaxially receives the tissue capture member. In addition, the cutting member has a free end distal the handle that includes a cutting. | 09-11-2008 |
20080228023 | Soft body catheter with low friction lumen - The disclosure is directed to radiation catheter devices, methods for controlled application of irradiation to tissue at a body site, such as a cavity formed after removal of tissue, e.g. cancer, using such radiation catheter devices, solutions for forming a more lubricious luminal surface and method for lining lumens of such devices to improve the frictional characteristics thereof. The catheter device includes a flexible elongated shaft which is formed of low durometer polymeric material, which can be readily folded or coiled for securing the shaft to or under the skin of the patient and a radiation lumen lined with high durometer polymeric material and finely divided particulate to improve the frictional characteristics. The elongated shaft has at least one inner lumen for receiving a radiation source which has a layer of high durometer polymeric material that provides lower surface friction to facilitate advancement of a radiation source therein. | 09-18-2008 |
20080228024 | Soft body catheter with low friction lumen - The disclosure is directed to radiation catheter devices, methods for controlled application of irradiation to tissue at a body site, such as a cavity formed after removal of tissue, e.g. cancer, using such radiation catheter devices, solutions for forming a more lubricious luminal surface and method for lining lumens of such devices to improve the frictional characteristics thereof. The catheter device includes a flexible elongated shaft which is formed of low durometer polymeric material, which can be readily folded or coiled for securing the shaft to or under the skin of the patient and a radiation lumen lined with high durometer polymeric material and finely divided particulate to improve the frictional characteristics. The elongated shaft has at least one inner lumen for receiving a radiation source which has a layer of high durometer polymeric material that provides lower surface friction to facilitate advancement of a radiation source therein. | 09-18-2008 |
20080281142 | Methods for asymmetrical irradiation of a body cavity - The disclosure describes devices and methods for asymmetrical irradiation at a body cavity or site, such as after removal of tissue, e.g. biopsy or cancer. One device includes a lumen which is off-set or off-settable from a longitudinal axis to increase the intensity of radiation received from a radiation source by a first tissue portion surrounding the body cavity and to reduce or minimize radiation received by a second tissue portion (e.g. healthy tissue) surrounding the body cavity. | 11-13-2008 |
20080281143 | Methods for asymmetrical irradiation of a body cavity - The disclosure describes devices and methods for asymmetrical irradiation at a body cavity or site, such as after removal of tissue, e.g. biopsy or cancer. One device includes a lumen which is off-set or off-settable from a longitudinal axis to increase the intensity of radiation received from a radiation source by a first tissue portion surrounding the body cavity and to reduce or minimize radiation received by a second tissue portion (e.g. healthy tissue) surrounding the body cavity. | 11-13-2008 |
20080293993 | CATHETER UNIT FOR RADIATION THERAPY - A catheter unit comprising an elbowed catheter having an insert section capable of being inserted into the body cavity and an elbow section and a winged catheter capable of being attached to the elbowed catheter so as to cover the insert section of the elbowed catheter. The two catheters are introduced into the body cavity by utilizing the bending function and fixed in the body cavity by means of a wing portion attached to the winged catheter. | 11-27-2008 |
20080300443 | Method for modifying skin distance from a brachytherapy balloon applicator - In brachytherapy radiation treatment, particularly on the breast following a tumor resection, adequate skin to balloon distance must be maintained, to avoid damage to the skin. Often the distance is too small in certain areas or at a single point. The disclosed procedures and devices are effective to manipulate the skin-to-balloon distance to increase that distance when necessary, using vacuum, friction or other means to grip, move and “bunch” the breast tissue from regions of larger balloon-skin distance to regions with inadequate balloon-skin distance. The apparatus can include a ring or ring shaped array that fits around the breast, larger than the balloon, a circular vacuum device, or a cup which is pushed over the breast to move tissue toward a thin tissue region. In many cases only a few millimeters of added distance are needed to meet minimum requirements so that the radiation procedure can commence. | 12-04-2008 |
20080300444 | OPHTHALMIC APPLICATOR FOR TREATMENT OF PTERYGIUM OR GLAUCOMA USING 32P ALONE OR IN COMBINATION WITH 103Pd - Disclosed is an ophthalmic applicator for the treatment of pterygium or or glaucoma using a radioisotope. It comprises a source volume for containing the radioisotope therein; a filter volume for controlling a radiation dose emitted from the radioisotope; and an encapsulation volume for encompassing the source volume and the filter volume, wherein the radioisotope is pure | 12-04-2008 |
20080312490 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR REPAIRING DAMAGED OR DISEASED TISSUE USING A SCANNING BEAM ASSEMBLY - A method for repairing or modifying an area of a patient's anatomy that comprises directing at least a portion of a scanning beam assembly to an area of a patient's anatomy, applying a radiation-responsive agent to portion of the anatomy, and exposing the radiation-responsive agent to radiation directed onto the agent by the reflector to cause the agent to therapeutically interact with the site. The scanning beam assembly including a radiation source capable of emitting radiation, a reflector that receives the radiation from the radiation source to direct the radiation onto the anatomy, wherein the reflector oscillates in at least two directions to create a scan of the anatomy, a detector to detect radiation returned from the anatomy, and a controller to convert the detected radiation into a displayable anatomy image. | 12-18-2008 |
20090048478 | Method for transporting radiation, applicator as well as radiation therapy device - Among other things, a method for transporting radiation to a body region is described, wherein, in a first step, a canal is formed up to the body region to be irradiated and wherein, in a second step, an applicator ( | 02-19-2009 |
20090112046 | Brachytherapy Apparatus and Method Using Rotating Radiation Source - A brachytherapy applicator and method of use involve a source guide that assumes a desired curving, non-linear configuration when inserted into an inflated balloon of the applicator. A flexible source catheter follows the shape of the source guide when inserted into the balloon. Radiation dose received in various tissue areas can be better controlled using the invention, and the ratio of cavity surface dose to prescription depth dose can be lowered. With rotation of the curving source guide coupled with translation of the source via longitudinal movement of the catheter, the applicator can approximate a spherical source, through either stepped or continuous movement of the source and source guide. | 04-30-2009 |
20090112047 | Brachytherapy apparatus and method for use with minimally invasive surgeries of the lung - Brachytherapy treatment of a patient's lung tissue following resection is effected using a balloon applicator which is inserted, normally through the same opening used for the surgery, through the chest wall and into the cavity. The lung and chest openings are closed around the applicator and generally sealed around the applicator. A suction port is provided, in a suction circuit of the applicator, to withdraw fluid from the pleural cavity, at intervals as needed, to assure that the lung can be inflated. Different embodiments of suction circuits are disclosed. A bronchial applicator and method are also disclosed. | 04-30-2009 |
20090143633 | Transparent Catheters for Endoscopic Localization - Devices and methods are disclosed for the direct visualization and localization of a target area within a body lumen through the optically clear walls of a graduated catheter. An elongated catheter has proximal and distal ends, an anchor, graduated markings, and outer and inner surfaces defining a catheter wall. The anchor establishes a secure relationship between the catheter and an anatomical feature. The graduated markings are disposed along a length of the catheter. The outer surface of the catheter wall is configured for contacting a body lumen and the inner surface of the catheter wall defines a main lumen disposed along a length of the elongated catheter. The catheter wall is transparent along a length to provide visualization of the graduated markings via a visualization tool positioned in the main lumen. In one embodiment, a catheter may have a substantially circular cross-section and include an arc-shaped transparent window. | 06-04-2009 |
20090143634 | Brachytherapy Balloon Features - A brachytherapy treatment device includes a tubular insertion member and an expandable chamber. The tubular insertion member has a proximal end and a distal end and an expandable chamber disposed on the distal end of the tubular insertion member. The expandable chamber defines an enclosed space and has inner and outer surfaces defining a wall, wherein the wall has at least first and second wall thicknesses. The expandable chamber may comprise a balloon. A main body portion of the balloon has the first wall thickness and ribs have the second wall thickness. The ribs may be disposed to be approximately parallel or perpendicular to the tubular insertion member around the circumference of the balloon. The ribs or other thickened areas provide improved symmetry, stability, and strength to an inflated balloon. Methods of forming a symmetrical radiation dosing profile are also disclosed herein. | 06-04-2009 |
20090156879 | Selectable Multi-Lumen Brachytherapy Devices and Methods - A brachytherapy treatment device includes at least one tubular insertion member and an expandable member. The tubular insertion member has proximal and distal ends and at least one radiation source lumen disposed along its length and branching at the distal end to provide a plurality of selectable radiation source lumens each configured to receive a radiation source. The expandable member is disposed on and surrounding the distal end of the tubular insertion member. In another embodiment, a brachytherapy treatment device may also include a plurality of selectable radiation source lumens forming an arcuate shape with respect to the longitudinal axis. Additional brachytherapy treatment devices and methods for performing brachytherapy and for forming an asymmetric radiation dosing profile are also disclosed. | 06-18-2009 |
20090156880 | Selectable Multi-Lumen Brachytherapy Devices and Methods - A brachytherapy treatment device includes at least one tubular insertion member and an expandable member. The tubular insertion member has proximal and distal ends and at least one radiation source lumen disposed along its length and branching at the distal end to provide a plurality of selectable radiation source lumens each configured to receive a radiation source. The expandable member is disposed on and surrounding the distal end of the tubular insertion member. In another embodiment, a brachytherapy treatment device may also include a plurality of selectable radiation source lumens forming an arcuate shape with respect to the longitudinal axis. Additional brachytherapy treatment devices and methods for performing brachytherapy and for forming an asymmetric radiation dosing profile are also disclosed. | 06-18-2009 |
20090182187 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TREATMENT PLANNING USING IMPLANTED RADIOACTIVE SOURCES - A pre-computed importance function providing ex ante assessment of optimal placement of a single radioactive source is used for sequential placement of multiple radioactive sources. As each source is placed, the importance function may be modified to reflect the dose implemented by that source and all sources already placed. The greedy algorithm employed by this technique makes possible optimization of additional dimensions of treatment planning including, using directional and isotropic sources, using different source isotopes, using optimum source strengths, using source locations that are not on the regular grid and using a single movable source for variable times at different locations. | 07-16-2009 |
20090198094 | APPARATUS AND COMPUTING DEVICE FOR PERFORMING BRACHYTHERAPY AND METHODS OF IMAGING USING THE SAME - An apparatus for determining a distribution of a selected therapy in a target volume is provided. A three-dimensional ultrasound transducer captures volume data from the target volume. A computing device is in communication with the three-dimensional ultrasound transducer for receiving the volume data and determining the distribution of the selected therapy in the target volume along a set of planned needle trajectories using the volume data. At least one of the needle trajectories is oblique to at least one other of the planned needle trajectories. | 08-06-2009 |
20090198095 | Multilumen brachytherapy balloon catheter - The disclosure describes a device for asymmetrical irradiation of a body cavity or site, such as after removal of tissue, e.g. biopsy or lumpectomy. The device includes an elongated tubular shaft having an inner lumen and a tubular wall with a plurality of lumens extending within the wall which are configured for receiving a radiation source. The distal portion of the tubular shaft is cut into a plurality of longitudinally separated wall segments with a lumen extending within at least one of the wall segments. A support member is positioned within the separated wall segments to support and position the wall segments in a desired configuration for brachytherapy. An expandable member such as an inflatable balloon is mounted on the distal shaft portion about the separated wall segments wall which when inflated secures the distal shaft portion within a desired intracorporeal site for brachytherapy treatment. | 08-06-2009 |
20090209802 | BALLOON BRACHYTHERAPY APPLICATOR AND METHOD - Methods and applicator apparatus are disclosed for brachytherapy treatment of tissue surrounding a cavity in a patient, particularly a resection cavity. In treatment regimes requiring recovery time between successive radiation treatments, applicators of the invention are retained under the skin, with the skin allowed to at least partially heal, and are re-accessed later for one or more subsequent treatments. To reduce patient discomfort an anesthetic agent can be infused through the applicator to patient tissue, for insertion, balloon inflation or removal of the applicator. | 08-20-2009 |
20090299124 | Applicators and methods for intraoperative treatment of proliferative diseases of the breast - A device for administering brachytherapy to a patient includes a vessel that may be in the form of a hollow cylindrical cup, for fleshing into and substantially filling the open-ended cavity. The vessel has a closed outer end, which may be a removable cover, and a source guide penetrates the closed outer end so as to extend deep into the vessel, to receive a radiation source in the source guide. A manipulator can be connected to the radiation source, and also to the source guide, for allowing several different types of manipulation of the source orientation and position within the vessel during the brachytherapy procedure. | 12-03-2009 |
20090312593 | Radioactive Device for treatment of a Tumor - An apparatus in one example has a treatment balloon or similar device that may be implanted into a tumor bed or cavity, and filled with or carrying a radioactive material. | 12-17-2009 |
20100022818 | Applicators for brachytherapy treatment - An applicator for brachytherapy radiation avoids over-radiation in the distal axial direction from a source positioned in the applicator, by attenuating distal axial radiation which tends to over-radiate, causing a “hot spot” in tissue in the axial direction, when the radiation travels through air space in the lumen. | 01-28-2010 |
20100094074 | Brachytherapy apparatus and methods employing expandable medical devices comprising fixation elements - Brachytherapy apparatus and methods for performing brachytherapy employing expandable members with at least one external fixation element, offering precise therapy due to rotational and/or longitudinal stability of the expandable member. | 04-15-2010 |
20100094075 | Expandable medical devices with reinforced elastomeric members and methods employing the same - Expandable devices for placement within a patient comprising an elastomeric member in contact with at least one fiber that provide non-differential expansion. Brachytherapy apparatus and methods for performing brachytherapy employing expandable devices comprising an elastomeric member in contact with at least one fiber that provide non-differential expansion. | 04-15-2010 |
20100130807 | EXPANDABLE BRACHYTHERAPY DEVICE - A method for brachytherapy in a lumpectomy cavity of a breast including, positioning a distal end of a brachytherapy device within the cavity, expanding an expandable surface portion located between proximal and distal ends of the device within the cavity, the source lumen tubes defining a curved configuration within the cavity; and positioning a source of radiation sequentially within one or more source lumens of the source lumen tubes according to a brachytherapy treatment plan. The device includes an inner tube, and a plurality of source lumen tubes located around the inner tube and including distal ends secured together with the inner tube at the distal end disposed within the body cavity, the source lumen tubes comprising proximal portions sufficiently long to extend outside the breast. | 05-27-2010 |
20100137673 | DOSIMETRY IMPLANT FOR TREATING RESTENOSIS AND HYPERPLASIA - The present invention discloses a method of selectively providing radiation dosimetry to a subject in need of such treatment. The radiation is applied by an implant comprising a body member and | 06-03-2010 |
20100152519 | EXPANDABLE BRACHYTHERAPY DEVICE - A method for brachytherapy in a lumpectomy cavity of a breast including, positioning a distal end of a brachytherapy device within the cavity, expanding an expandable surface portion located between proximal and distal ends of the device within the cavity, the source lumen tubes defining a curved configuration within the cavity; and positioning a source of radiation sequentially within one or more source lumens of the source lumen tubes according to a brachytherapy treatment plan. The device includes an inner tube, and a plurality of source lumen tubes located around the inner tube and including distal ends secured together with the inner tube at the distal end disposed within the body cavity, the source lumen tubes comprising proximal portions sufficiently long to extend outside the breast. | 06-17-2010 |
20100160711 | FILLERS AND METHODS FOR DISPLACING TISSUES TO IMPROVE RADIOLOGICAL OUTCOMES - Certain embodiments include a method of improvising radiological outcomes by introducing a filler to between a first tissue location and a second tissue location to increase a distance between the first tissue location and the second tissue location, and administering a dose of radioactivity to at least the first tissue location or the second tissue location. Collagen and hyaluronic acid are examples of fillers. Certain embodiments include a medical device having a biocompatible, biodegradable filler material, wherein the device comprises at least a portion that has a shape that substantially conforms to Denovillier's space between the rectum and prostate. Certain embodiments include a kit, the kit comprising a filler and instructions for placing the filler between a first tissue location and a second tissue location to increase a distance between the first tissue location and the second tissue location. | 06-24-2010 |
20100191034 | EXPANDABLE BRACHYTHERAPY DEVICE WITH CONSTANT RADIATION SOURCE SPACING - A brachytherapy device may include an expandable outer cage, an expandable inner cage positioned within the outer cage and configured to receive radioactive material at its perimeter, and a movable actuator configured to cause the outer and inner cages to expand simultaneously in response to movement of the actuator between certain positions while maintaining a substantially constant separation distance between the outer and inner cages. | 07-29-2010 |
20100204534 | Flexible Multi-Lumen Brachytherapy Device - A flexible, multi-lumen brachytherapy device includes a plurality of loose lumens extend through a hub towards a single point of attachment at a distal rigid section. Because the lumens are attached at only a single distal location, the lumens are free to move axially and rotatably, thereby increasing the overall flexibility of the device to thereby decrease intermittent device movement while increasing patient comfort. A novel keyed stylet can be selectively inserted to increase the rigidity of the device as needed. The ability to dynamically modify the rigidity of the brachytherapy device provides a comprehensive brachytherapy solution that satisfies concerns of the patient, the surgeon and the radiologists. | 08-12-2010 |
20100204535 | System and Method for Modifying a Flexibility of a Brachythereapy Catheter - A flexible, multi-lumen brachytherapy device includes a plurality of loose lumens extend through a hub towards a single point of attachment at a distal rigid section. Because the lumens are attached at only a single distal location, the lumens are free to move axially and rotatably, thereby increasing the overall flexibility of the device to thereby decrease intermittent device movement while increasing patient comfort. A novel keyed stylet can be selectively inserted to increase the rigidity of the device as needed. The ability to dynamically modify the rigidity of the brachytherapy device provides a comprehensive brachytherapy solution that satisfies concerns of the patient, the surgeon and the radiologists. | 08-12-2010 |
20100234668 | Balloon Catheter And applicator with balloon catheter - The present invention relates to a balloon catheter ( | 09-16-2010 |
20100249487 | BRACHYTHERAPY APPARATUS AND METHODS OF USING SAME - Apparatus, systems and methods for delivering brachytherapy to a target tissue region of a human or other mammalian body. In some embodiments, a flexible brachytherapy device is implanted that includes a therapy delivery portion having one or more radioactive sources securely retained thereto, and a tail portion extending from the therapy delivery portion. Once implanted, the tail portion may extend outside the body, where it may be folded and secured flat against the skin. The device may be removed at therapy completion. Other embodiments of the invention are directed to systems and methods for delivering brachytherapy devices to the body. | 09-30-2010 |
20100268013 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR INTRAOCULAR BRACHYTHERAPY - A method for performing intraocular brachytherapy and an apparatus for performing the same is disclosed. The apparatus preferably comprises a hand-held delivery device that advances a radiation source into an associated cannula or probe that is positioned adjacent the target tissue. The handpiece provides for shielded storage of the radiation source when retracted from the cannula and includes a slider mechanism for advancing and retracting the radiation source. The radiation source is mounted to a wire that has a flexible distal end and a relatively stiffer proximal end. A positioning system for the cannula is also disclosed. | 10-21-2010 |
20100286465 | Lumen Visualization and Identification System for Multi-Lumen Balloon Catheter - Systems and methods that facilitate visualization and identification of lumens of a multi-lumen brachytherapy device are disclosed. In one embodiment, visualization and identification can be attained by modifying a feature of at least one of the lumens relative to the other lumens. The feature may include a marking on the lumen, a diameter of the lumen or a composition of the lumen. In an additional embodiment, for brachytherapy devices in which multiple lumens are coupled to a distal end point such as a rigid connection member, visualization and identification of the lumens can be attained by modifying a feature of the rigid connection member. It will be readily appreciated that visualization and identification can be further enhanced through a combination of two or more of the techniques described herein. | 11-11-2010 |
20100286466 | Catheter Marking for Multi-Lumen Catheter Identification - Systems and methods that facilitate visualization and identification of lumens of a multi-lumen brachytherapy device are disclosed. In one embodiment, visualization and identification can be attained by modifying a feature of at least one of the lumens relative to the other lumens. The feature may include a marking on the lumen, a diameter of the lumen or a composition of the lumen. In an additional embodiment, for brachytherapy devices in which multiple lumens are coupled to a distal end point such as a rigid connection member, visualization and identification of the lumens can be attained by modifying a feature of the rigid connection member. It will be readily appreciated that visualization and identification can be further enhanced through a combination of two or more of the techniques described herein. | 11-11-2010 |
20100292526 | BRACHYTHERAPY APPLIANCE AND METHOD - A brachytherapy appliance removably positionable on or against a surface of a living body, such as the body of a human or animal, for positioning a therapeutic delivery device in a desired precise location in relation to a selected portion of the body in or adjacent to the surface and containing a cancer, tumor, or other diseased tissue, for delivering a therapy, particularly radiation, to the diseased tissue, and a method of making the appliance so as to conform to the body surface, based on a computerized three dimensional model or map generated from a scan of the body region, the appliance being particularly adapted for use in a body cavity such as the oral cavity. | 11-18-2010 |
20100305388 | Apparatus for Transporting and Positioning a Capsule in which a Radioactive Source is Present - An apparatus is described for transporting and positioning a capsule, in which a radioactive source is present, from a screened safe into an applicator to be temporarily placed in the body of the patient. The apparatus is provided with a safe for storing at least one capsule and with a larger number of applicators, which can be connected, via transport tubes, to passages in a switch-connecting plate, wherein the capsules, or a dummy instead of one of the capsules, can each, via their own tube and switch, independently of one another, be introduced into a transport tube selected by the respective switch and can be displaced therein independently of one another in a manner programmable with regard to location and residence time, by a transport wire slidable via a drive motor. | 12-02-2010 |
20100305389 | Device Suitable for Introducing into Human and/or Animal Bodies - The invention relates to a device suitable for at least partially introducing into human and/or animal bodies, said device containing barium iodide located at least on one wall such that the device is visible during an imaging method. | 12-02-2010 |
20100305390 | THERAPEUTIC MEDICAL APPLIANCE DELIVERY AND METHOD OF USE - The present invention, in an exemplary embodiment, provides a therapeutic medical appliance, delivery device and method of use. In particular, plug therapeutic medical appliances are provided that allow for the interventional treatment of pulmonary disorders such as defects characterized by pulmonary blebs and/or diffused destructive parenchymal disease. The plug therapeutic medical appliances themselves combine many of the excellent characteristics of both silicone and metal therapeutic medical appliances while eliminating the undesirable ones. In particular, these therapeutic medical appliances are preferably self-expanding in nature and allow the predetermined differential selection of relative hardness/softness of regions of the therapeutic medical appliance to provide additional patient comfort. An exemplary embodiment also provides a family of delivery devices that facilitate flexibility, durability and/or proper installation of one or more medical appliances in a single procedure. Moreover, the preferred embodiment of the delivery device provides for the reloading of the delivery device with additional medical appliances for additional interventional procedures. | 12-02-2010 |
20110040139 | SOFT BODY CATHETER WITH LOW FRICTION LUMEN - An elongated catheter device for irradiating tissue surrounding a body site within a patient includes a treatment location on a distal portion of the elongated catheter device. An elongated flexible shaft is formed at least in part of a low durometer polymeric material and has at least one radiation lumen extending within a portion of the elongated flexible shaft formed of the low durometer polymeric material to the treatment location and is configured to receive a radiation source. A deposited coating of a high durometer polymeric material and a starch particulate is located on a lumen surface of the at least one radiation lumen to provide improved frictional characteristics in the at least one radiation lumen. | 02-17-2011 |
20110087062 | MINIATURE X-RAY TUBE FOR A CATHETER - A miniature X-ray tube for intravascular or intracorporeal radiation treatment in living beings is proposed. The X-ray tube comprises a cylindrical housing section with a longitudinal axis. The miniature X-ray tube also comprises a cylindrical or cylindrical-tube-shaped first field emission cathode arranged concentrically about the longitudinal axis in the housing with a plurality of carbon nanotubes which emit electrons radially outward. The miniature X-ray tube also comprises a second field emission cathode in the housing with a plurality of carbon nanotubes which emit electrons in the direction of longitudinal axis. The miniature X-ray tube only emits little heat and is robust against mechanical stresses. | 04-14-2011 |
20110105823 | Medical Template Device and Method for Use in Positioning Therapeutic Probes at a Target Tissue - Medical template device and method for use in positioning therapeutic probes at a target tissue are provided. The template device includes a frame and a pierceable probe guide secured by the frame. The probe guide has a probe guide pattern such as a grid pattern, wherein the pierceable probe guide is capable of being pierced at any location along its surface by a therapeutic probe. In one embodiment, the pierceable probe guide is a film having a solid surface without any pre-formed apertures. This allows a physician to more accurately position the probes with narrower spacing. | 05-05-2011 |
20110172485 | CATHETER ASSEMBLY FOR DELIVERING A RADIATION SOURCE INTO A BODY CAVITY - A catheter assembly for delivering a radiation source into a body cavity includes a catheter shaft having a distal end and a proximal end. An inflatable balloon is coupled to the catheter shaft between the distal end and the proximal end. A dose delivery lumen extends along the catheter shaft between the proximal end and the distal end. The dose delivery lumen is configured to receive the radiation source. A radioabsorptive portion is surrounded by the inflatable balloon. | 07-14-2011 |
20110184222 | BRACHYTHERAPY DEVICE - A brachytherapy device is configured for use in a system having a fluid source. The brachytherapy device includes a balloon assembly including an inflation conduit coupled to a distensible portion. The inflation conduit is configured to facilitate passage of an inflation fluid received from the fluid source to the distensible portion. The distensible portion is configured to respond to the inflation fluid by expanding. The distensible portion has an outer surface with an oval profile. A treatment delivery shaft extends into a region within the distensible portion. The treatment delivery shaft is configured to deliver a treatment material to a location in the region. | 07-28-2011 |
20110207987 | Methods And Devices For Delivering Appropriate Minimally-Invasive Extraocular Radiation - The present invention also features a brachytherapy system comprising a spiral cut tube having a first end and a second end; a radioactive brachytherapy source (RBS) disposed on the first end of the spiral cut tube; and a handle and a generally hollow cannula disposed on the handle, wherein a channel is disposed in the handle aligned with the hollow cannula, and the spiral cut tube and RBS are adapted to slide within the channel and the hollow cannula. | 08-25-2011 |
20110245578 | RADIOACTIVE THERAPEUTIC FASTENING INSTRUMENT - An instrument used for brachytherapy delivery in the treatment of cancer by radiation therapy including a handle having first and second handle actuators; an end effector; and an instrument shaft that connects the handle with the end effector. The end effector has first and second adjacent disposed staple mechanisms that each retain a set of staples. The first mechanism is for holding standard staples in a first array, and dispensing the standard staples under control of the corresponding first handle actuator. The second mechanism is for holding radioactive source staples in a second array, and dispensing said radioactive source staples under control of the corresponding second handle actuator. A holder is for receiving the first and second mechanisms in a substantially parallel array so that the standard staples close the incision at a surgical margin while the source staples are secured adjacent thereto. | 10-06-2011 |
20110263921 | Patterned Denervation Therapy for Innervated Renal Vasculature - A renal denervation apparatus includes a treatment element dimensioned for deployment on or within a renal artery of a patient. The treatment element comprises a predefined pattern arranged to complete at least one revolution of the treatment element. The apparatus includes a treatment source. The treatment source and treatment element are configured to cooperatively facilitate communication of an agent from the treatment source to the pattern arrangement of the treatment element. The treatment element is configured to deliver denervation therapy using the agent via the pattern arrangement to one or more regions of the renal artery adjacent the pattern arrangement, such that at least one complete revolution of the renal artery is subjected to the denervation therapy. | 10-27-2011 |
20110263922 | METHOD, DEVICE AND APPARATUS SYSTEM FOR PROSTATE CANCER THERAPY - In a method, a device and an apparatus system for therapy of prostate cancer, in the course of a therapy session the prostate of a patient is subjected at different locations to a diagnostic examination with regard to the presence of a tumor, and in the case of a positive diagnosis the prostate is therapeutically treated at the corresponding location during the therapy session. The device has a hollow needle, a biopsy needle carrying an extraction element at its forward end that serves to extract a tissue sample, and a therapy element serving to therapeutically act at a location of the prostate. The biopsy needle or the optical waveguide and the therapy element are designed so that they can be inserted into the hollow needle. The apparatus system includes a diagnostic unit and a therapy unit for focal therapy treatment of the prostate, the diagnostic unit including a device for histological assessment of prostate tissue. | 10-27-2011 |
20110313233 | DOWN-REGULATION OF COLD SHOCK PROTEINS FOR CANCER TREATMENT - The present invention is in the field of treatment of diseased tissues, including cancerous tissues. In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods of identifying tissues that down-regulate cold shock proteins in response to environmental stresses, such as heat. The present invention also provides methods of treatment of diseased tissues comprising down-regulation of cold shock proteins, as well as environmentally stressing (e.g., heating) the tissues, in combination with one or more additional therapies. | 12-22-2011 |
20120016175 | Direct visualization Robotic Intra-Operative Radiation Therapy Device with Radiation Ablation Capsule - This invention proposes a robotic applicator device to be deployed internally to a patient having a capsule (also referred to as a cassette) and aperture with a means of alternately occluding and exposing a radioactive source through the aperture. The capsule and aperture will be integrated with a surgical robot to create a robotic IORT (intra-operative radiation therapy) applicator device as more fully described below. The capsule, radiation source, and IORT applicator arm would be integrated to enable a physician, physicist or technician to interactively internally view and select tissue for exposure to ionizing radiation in sufficient quantities to deliver therapeutic radiation doses to tissue. Via the robotic manipulation device, the physician and physicist would remotely apply radiation to not only the tissue to be exposed, but also control the length of time of the exposure. Control means would be added to identify and calculate margin and depth of tissue to be treated and the proper radiation source or radioactive isotope (which can be any particle emitter, including neutron, x-ray, alpha, beta or gamma emitter) to obtain the desired therapeutic effects. The invention enables stereotactical surgery and close confines radiation therapy adjacent to radiosensitive tissue. | 01-19-2012 |
20120022314 | BRACHYTHERAPY APPARATUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR USING THEM - A brachytherapy treatment apparatus is provided that includes a center catheter including proximal and distal ends defining a central longitudinal axis therebetween, the center catheter including a bend between the proximal and distal ends. The apparatus includes a pair of expandable catheters including pathways extending between the proximal and distal ends thereof, the expandable catheter distal ends coupled to the distal end of the core member. An actuator is coupled to the expandable catheters adjacent expandable portions that is movable relative to the center catheter for moving the expandable portions between a collapsed configuration wherein the expandable portions extend substantially parallel to the center catheter and an expanded configuration wherein the expandable portions bow away from one another substantially within a curved plane aligned generally with a bend of to the center catheter. A balloon is provided adjacent the expandable portions and surrounding a portion of the catheters. | 01-26-2012 |
20120041252 | DEVICE FOR ORIENTING AN OBJECT ACCORDING TO A GIVEN SPATIAL ORIENTATION - There is disclosed a device for orienting an object according to a given spatial orientation. The device comprises a frame and a supporting member connected to the frame and adapted for supporting at least a portion of the object. The device for orienting an object comprises a plurality of fluid actuated devices for displacing the supporting member with respect to the frame. Each of the fluid actuated devices is actuatable between a first position wherein the device has a first length and a second position wherein the device has a second length. The device for orienting comprises an actuation mechanism comprising a plurality of actuating valves for actuating the corresponding fluid actuated device; wherein an actuation of at least one of the fluid actuated devices enables to displace the supporting member with respect to the frame, thereby orienting the object according to the given spatial orientation. The device for orienting may be of particular interest in the medical sector as a medical object manipulator for reaching a given target in an anatomical structure with a suitable accuracy, for example in the treatment and/or diagnosis of prostate cancer. | 02-16-2012 |
20120059210 | Rotate-to-advance catheterization system - A system of rotate-to-advance medical devices including catheters, dilators, occluders, stents, suprapubic catheters and camera introducers configured with external screw threads and depending substantially on rotation for means of advancement and emplacement in mammalian genitourinary and gastrointestinal passages and organs. | 03-08-2012 |
20120071705 | BRACHYTHERAPY DEVICE FOR ASYMMETRICAL IRRADIATION OF A BODY CAVITY - The disclosure describes devices and methods for asymmetrical irradiation at a body cavity or site, such as after removal of tissue, e.g. biopsy or cancer. One device includes a lumen which is off-set or off-settable from a longitudinal axis to increase the intensity of radiation received from a radiation source by a first tissue portion surrounding the body cavity and to reduce or minimize radiation received by a second tissue portion (e.g. healthy tissue) surrounding the body cavity. | 03-22-2012 |
20120078029 | Rectal Catheter for Urological & Other Applications - According to one general aspect, there is A medical device comprising a locking mechanism that is used to connect a plurality of catheters, a multi-balloon inflator that inflates multiple balloons on a single catheter, a extraction point used to remove human fluids from the human body, and a connecting point that allows a syringe or a machine to insert liquid saline solution or radioactive isotopes into said multi-balloon inflator. | 03-29-2012 |
20120083646 | Using a Guide Member to Facilitate Brachytherapy Device Swap - A guide member facilitates a device swap for brachytherapy treatment. A cavity evaluation device is introduced during surgery such that a distal end of the device is disposed in a resected cavity of the patient. The cavity evaluation device includes a shaft in which is disposed an elongated guide member. In a subsequent out-patient procedure the cavity evaluation device is removed from the resected cavity. If a brachytherapy treatment is to be performed then the cavity evaluation device is removed without removing the elongated guide member such that position of a portion of the elongated guide member in the resected cavity is maintained relative to the resected cavity. An anchor member helps to maintain the position of the guide member. Introduction of a brachytherapy catheter is then facilitated by introducing the elongated guide member into an opening of the brachytherapy catheter and using the elongated guide member to guide the brachytherapy catheter to the resected cavity. | 04-05-2012 |
20120108881 | EXPANDABLE BRACHYTHERAPY APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR USING THEM - Brachytherapy treatment apparatus are provided that include an elongate core member, a plurality of expandable catheters or other elongate members and a balloon or other expandable member on a distal portion adjacent the core member. Each catheter includes a distal end coupled to the core member distal end, a proximal end movable relative to the core member, and a lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends for receiving a source of radiation therealong. The balloon is expandable independently of the catheters such that the balloon may be expanded after expanding the catheters, e.g., to facilitate imaging and/or dose planning. Optionally, a working channel may be provided for receiving an aspiration catheter or other instrument or at least one of the catheters may include an aspiration lumen and one or more ports, e.g., for aspirating material from a region surrounding the distal portion. | 05-03-2012 |
20120116146 | Multi-lumen instrument for providing radiation to a body cavity - A brachytherapy system for treating metastases on and around a patient's spinous process is provided. The device generally includes a catheter member having a proximal portion, a distal portion, and at least one lumen extending therethrough. The distal portion of the catheter member includes first and second branch members that are adapted to be positioned on opposed sides of a patient's spinous process. The device further includes first and second elongate anchoring elements disposed on the first and second branch members, and optionally can include at least one centering mechanism disposed within each of the first and second anchoring elements. | 05-10-2012 |
20120123187 | System and Method for Generating a Radiation Treatment Plan for Use in Effecting Radiation Therapy in a Human or Animal Body - The invention relates to a method for generating a radiation treatment plan and a radiation therapy treatment planning system for use in effecting radiation therapy of an anatomical portion of an animal body. The invention also relates to a radiation therapy delivery system. | 05-17-2012 |
20120149965 | Radiation Therapy Delivery System and Radiation Therapy Treatment Planning - The invention relates to a radiation therapy delivery system for use in effecting radiation therapy of a pre-selected anatomical portion of an animal body in which the delivery means displaces said at least one energy emitting source along a path through at least part of one of at least one catheter in a continuous motion using a pre-determined velocity profile along said paths, said velocity profile determined by solving an optimization problem in three-dimensions defined for a function describing the spatial dose distribution. The invention relates also to a radiation therapy treatment planning system and a method for generating a radiation treatment plan for use in effecting radiation therapy of an anatomical portion of an animal body in which the movement of the radiation source through the anatomical portion is continuous. | 06-14-2012 |
20120157748 | Peripheral Brachytherapy of Protruding Conformable Organs - A system for and method of applying non-invasive brachytherapy to a targeted volume within a protruding organ of a patient, employs an applicator constructed so as to be positioned relative to the organ so that an enhanced dose of divergent radiation is deliverable from at least two locations at or very near the periphery of the organ transcutaneously to the targeted volume of the protruding organ from at least two directions so that a higher dose is delivered to the targeted volume than to tissue surrounding the targeted volume. The treatment planning, and image guidance techniques are also described. | 06-21-2012 |
20120165595 | METHOD FOR IDENTIFYING THE LOCATION AT LEAST ONE TREATMENT CHANNEL FROM A GROUP OF A PLURALITY OF TREATMENT CHANNELS AS WELL AS A SYSTEM FOR EFFECTING RADIATION TREATMENT ON A PRE-SELECTED ANATOMICAL PORTION OF AN ANIMAL BODY - The invention relates to a method for identifying the location at least one treatment channel from a group of a plurality of treatment channels as wells as a system for effecting radiation treatment on a pre-selected anatomical portion of an animal body. | 06-28-2012 |
20120232325 | RADIOACTIVE BONE CEMENT - Methods are described for treating a target tissue with a radioisotope. Some methods include determining a distance between a target tissue and a surface of a matrix material to be positioned adjacent the target tissue and, based on the determined distance, determining an activity to be mixed with the matrix material to obtain a desired activity concentration. Some methods further include mixing the radioisotope with the matrix material. In some embodiments, the matrix material is a bone cement, and the target tissue is a tumor in a bone. The radioisotope may be a beta-emitting radioisotope mixed in the cement at a concentration to form a radioactive cement. | 09-13-2012 |
20120232326 | LUMENAL REMODELLING DEVICE AND METHODS - A device and method suitable for remodelling the internal surface of a hollow vessel at least partially occluded by a mass is provided. The device comprises an elongate body having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end comprising a tip portion located at the distal terminus of the body, and at least one heating element located proximally to the tip portion within the distal end. The at least one heating element is configured to be greater in dimension proximally than distally and thereby tapers towards the distal end. Furthermore, the at least one heating element is arranged so that it can be deployed outwardly from the body of the device and in so doing exert an expansion force on the hollow vessel. The at least one heating element is capable of delivering sufficient energy to remodel the internal surface, and if necessary caused localised ablation, of the hollow vessel without inducing closure of the hollow vessel. | 09-13-2012 |
20120323063 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR THE HANDLING OF A HAZARDOUS FLUID - An apparatus for the handling of hazardous fluids includes a collection vessel, a collection vessel connector, a dose control connector, a unit dose container, a delivery control connector, and a delivery site access device. The collection vessel contains the fluid prior to dispensing, the unit dose container contains a predetermined amount of the fluid for dispensing, the delivery site access device provides access to an intended delivery site, and the connector attaches pieces of the apparatus to one another. The method of the invention allows needle-free connections to be made for the apparatus, using a predetermined arrangement of the pieces of the apparatus, and in one embodiment, employs deformable elastomeric valves capable of creating a decreased pressure at a valve surface, so that upon closure of said valves, a fluid on the surface on the valves is withdrawn within the connector. | 12-20-2012 |
20130012756 | METHOD OF TREATING CHOLANGIOCARCINOMA AND APPARATUS - Biological implants have an electroplated surface wherein a substantial portion of the electroplated surface is covered with dendrites. The dendrites assist in maintaining the implant in location. When the metal is a radioactive metal or the surface of the electroplated is coated with a radioactive material, the dendrites increase surface area thereby increasing radiation dosage and further extend the radioactive surface farther away from the surface of the implant, further enhancing radioactive emission. This is particularly useful for a cholangiocarcinoma stent which can be implanted into the biliary stent to treat cholangiocarcinoma. | 01-10-2013 |
20130035536 | APPLICATORS AND METHODS FOR INTRAOPERATIVE TREATMENT OF PROLIFERATIVE DISEASES OF THE BREAST - A device for administering brachytherapy to a patient includes a vessel that may be in the form of a hollow cylindrical cup, for fleshing into and substantially filling the open-ended cavity. The vessel has a closed outer end, which may be a removable cover, and a source guide penetrates the closed outer end so as to extend deep into the vessel, to receive a radiation source in the source guide. A manipulator can be connected to the radiation source, and also to the source guide, for allowing several different types of manipulation of the source orientation and position within the vessel during the brachytherapy procedure. | 02-07-2013 |
20130079580 | RADIATION CATHETER WITH MULTILAYERED BALLOON - A catheter device for irradiating tissue surrounding a body site within a body of a patient, includes an elongated shaft which has a distal portion configured to be deployed within the body site. A treatment location at the distal portion has one or more radiation guides configured to receive a radiation source to irradiate tissue at least in part surrounding the body site. An inflatable multilayered balloon is located to surround the treatment location with a wall thereof having at least two layers including a first layer separate from, inside, and in contact with a second layer around an entire periphery of the first layer, and each of the first layer and the second layer being secured to the distal portion of the elongated shaft. | 03-28-2013 |
20130096360 | Brachytherapy Devices and Related Methods Providing Bioaborbability and/or Asymmetric Irradition - Methods of forming a low-dose-rate (LDR) brachytherapy device include depositing a solution comprising a soluble form of a radioactive material on a substrate. A water-insoluble form of the radioactive material is formed on the substrate by chemical precipitation and/or thermal decomposition. | 04-18-2013 |
20130109905 | PACEMAKERS AND PACEMAKER LEADS | 05-02-2013 |
20130144105 | MULTILUMEN BRACHYTHERAPY BALLOON CATHETER - The disclosure describes a device for asymmetrical irradiation of a body cavity or site, such as after removal of tissue, e.g. biopsy or lumpectomy. The device includes an elongated tubular shaft having an inner lumen and a tubular wall with a plurality of lumens extending within the wall which are configured for receiving a radiation source. The distal portion of the tubular shaft is cut into a plurality of longitudinally separated wall segments with a lumen extending within at least one of the wall segments. A support member is positioned within the separated wall segments to support and position the wall segments in a desired configuration for brachytherapy. An expandable member such as an inflatable balloon is mounted on the distal shaft portion about the separated wall segments wall which when inflated secures the distal shaft portion within a desired intracorporeal site for brachytherapy treatment. | 06-06-2013 |
20130204070 | Brachytherapy applicator device for insertion in a body cavity - The invention relates to a brachytherapy applicator device for insertion in a body cavity. The applicator device comprises an applicator shaped for insertion in the body cavity; the applicator comprising connectable segments; at least one connectable part having a form following wall surface shaped to follow the body cavity, the wall surface having a multichannel groove structure, so as to guide a plurality of catheters along the grooves in the groove structure along the wall surface. | 08-08-2013 |
20130204071 | BRACHYTHERAPY APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR USE WITH MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERIES OF THE LUNG - Brachytherapy treatment of a patient's lung tissue following resection is effected using a balloon applicator which is inserted, normally through the same opening used for the surgery, through the chest wall and into the cavity. The lung and chest openings are closed around the applicator and generally sealed around the applicator. A suction port is provided, in a suction circuit of the applicator, to withdraw fluid from the pleural cavity, at intervals as needed, to assure that the lung can be inflated. Different embodiments of suction circuits are disclosed. A bronchial applicator and method are also disclosed. | 08-08-2013 |
20130211176 | ENHANCED ABLATION APPARATUS - Apparatus and methods suitable for causing tissue ablation at a specified therapeutic site in the body of a patient. The apparatus comprises an ablation device having a distal end and a proximal end and a central lumen extending along its length, the distal end comprising at least one energy delivery element suitable for causing tissue ablation. A penetrating member having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end comprising a sharp tip suitable for piercing tissue and creating a channel for the device in the tissue, is coaxially positioned within the central lumen of the ablation device and is capable of being advanced distally out of the central lumen of the device and retracted back to within the central lumen of the device. The apparatus may further comprise an endoscope for delivery of the device to the site of treatment. | 08-15-2013 |
20130211177 | BRACHYTHERAPY APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR USE WITH MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERIES OF THE LUNG - Brachytherapy treatment of a patient's lung tissue following resection is effected using a balloon applicator which is inserted, normally through the same opening used for the surgery, through the chest wall and into the cavity. The lung and chest openings are closed around the applicator and generally sealed around the applicator. A suction port is provided, in a suction circuit of the applicator, to withdraw fluid from the pleural cavity, at intervals as needed, to assure that the lung can be inflated. Different embodiments of suction circuits are disclosed. A bronchial applicator and method are also disclosed. | 08-15-2013 |
20130225901 | ENHANCEMENT OF RADIATION THERAPY BY TARGETED HIGH-Z NANOPARTICLES - A method for the design, manufacturing, and use of a high-Z particle to enhance the effects of ionizing radiation. In particular, the use of a targeting molecule to enable cellular uptake by the target cells (tumor cells or endothelial cells proximate to the tumor) will enhance the dose effect. | 08-29-2013 |
20130225902 | EXPANDABLE BRACHYTHERAPY DEVICE - A method for brachytherapy in a lumpectomy cavity of a breast including, positioning a distal end of a brachytherapy device within the cavity, expanding an expandable surface portion located between proximal and distal ends of the device within the cavity, the source lumen tubes defining a curved configuration within the cavity; and positioning a source of radiation sequentially within one or more source lumens of the source lumen tubes according to a brachytherapy treatment plan. The device includes an inner tube, and a plurality of source lumen tubes located around the inner tube and including distal ends secured together with the inner tube at the distal end disposed within the body cavity, the source lumen tubes comprising proximal portions sufficiently long to extend outside the breast. | 08-29-2013 |
20130296630 | Systems and Method for Treatment of Tumors - An oxygen-producing device has a power supply with an electrically positive and an electrically negative output, at least one pair of electrodes, one electrode of the pair coupled to the electrically positive output and the other coupled to the electrically negative output, an oxygen-rich material exposed to the electrodes for producing oxygen in response to a voltage generated across the electrodes, and an envelope containing the power supply, the pair of electrodes and the oxygen rich material. The device operates within a human tumor, the envelope— comprises a gas-permeable membrane for releasing the produced oxygen into an environment outside of the envelope and the power supply is enabled to provide a DC voltage of at least 1.2 volts to the electrodes. | 11-07-2013 |
20140005465 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ELECTRONIC BRACHYTHERAPY | 01-02-2014 |
20140051904 | ENERGY APPLICATION APPARATUS - The invention relates to an energy application apparatus for applying energy to an object, wherein the object ( | 02-20-2014 |
20140058187 | APPARATUS, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SUPPORTING A BRACHYTHERAPY - An apparatus for supporting a brachytherapy includes at least one radiation means, at least one dose measuring means, and a processing unit. The at least one dose measuring means is configured to be introduced into a target area of an object under treatment which includes at least one target object and that is designed to measure radioactive radiation originating from the at least one radiation means, which is introduced into the target area of the object under treatment, and to provide the measured values by way of a means of transmission to the processing unit. | 02-27-2014 |
20140107396 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DELIVERING A THERAPEUTIC AGENT - Devices, systems, and methods for delivering a therapeutic agent to a treatment region in the body are disclosed. By determining a treatment region in the body, reducing the volume of the treatment region to create a target region by using one or more flow control elements and delivering at least one therapeutic agent to the target region, improved treatment may be achieved. | 04-17-2014 |
20140114115 | GAMMA SOURCE TRACKING SYSTEM - Embodiments of the disclosure relate to a method for reconstructing a spatial position of a conduit arranged to accommodate a radiotherapeutic radioactive source. The method includes displacing an object emitting radiation inside the conduit prior to the administration of a treatment, detecting said radiation using detectors; generating data upon detecting the said radiation using a processor; and reconstructing the spatial position of the conduit by the processor based on the said data to identify a delivery path of the treatment. | 04-24-2014 |
20140148635 | METHODS FOR TREATING AIRWAYS - This relates to treating airways in a lung to decrease asthmatic symptoms. The also includes steps of measuring a parameter of an airway at a plurality of locations in a lung, identifying at least one treatment site from at least one of the plurality of locations based on the parameter, and applying energy to the treatment site to reduce the ability of the site to narrow. | 05-29-2014 |
20140275713 | Apparatus and Method for Optimizing a Brachytherapy Radiation Treatment Plan - A control circuit optimizes a brachytherapy radiation treatment plan for a patient target volume by defining a radiation-control structure that conformally surrounds the patient target volume and then automatically removes part, but not all, of the radiation-control structure to control consideration of radiation sources that are not disposed within the patient target volume. By one approach the control circuit selectively removes parts of the radiation-control structure as a function of the geometry as corresponds to placement of one or more of the radiation sources. For many application settings it serves well for the radiation-control structure to represent a radiation-avoidance area. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275714 | MULTITUBE ESOPHAGEAL BRACHYTHERAPY CATHETER - A system for delivery of radiation to a target portion of a native tissue is provided. The system includes a catheter having a main catheter body. The main catheter body includes an outer catheter surface and an inner catheter surface that defines a longitudinally oriented lumen. The lumen extends between longitudinally spaced proximal and distal catheter face surfaces extending laterally between the inner and outer catheter surfaces. A sheath covers at least a portion of the outer catheter surface. The sheath includes a tapered portion protruding substantially longitudinally distally from a portion of the distal catheter face surface. A plurality of tubes extends through the lumen towards the distal catheter face surface. Each tube of the plurality of tubes is configured to selectively guide exposure of a radiation source to the target portion of the native tissue. | 09-18-2014 |
20140323794 | ELECTRONIC BRACHYTHERAPY RADIATION APPLICATION APPARATUS COMPRISING A PIEZOELECTRICALLY POWERED X-RAY SOURCE - The invention relates to a radiation application apparatus for applying radiation at a location within an object. The radiation application apparatus comprises a transforming unit ( | 10-30-2014 |
20150065783 | SINGLE KIDNEY DENERVATION FOR REDUCING AND CONTROLLING HYPERTENSION - Apparatus, systems, and methods provide access to the renal pelvis of a kidney to treat renal nerves embedded in tissue surrounding the renal pelvis. Access to the renal pelvis may be via the urinary tract or via minimally invasive incisions through the abdomen and kidney tissue. Treatment is effected by exchanging energy, typically delivering heat or extracting heat through a wall of the renal pelvis, or by delivering active substances. | 03-05-2015 |
20150080635 | SYSTEM FOR MONITORING AND CONTROLLING ORGAN BLOOD PERFUSION - The present invention provides a system, a method, devices and a computer implemented with a method for the monitoring and the control of a subject's organ perfusion. The present invention further provides for the use of a system, a method, devices and a computer implemented with a method for the monitoring and the control of a subject's organ perfusion. | 03-19-2015 |
20150105605 | RADIOACTIVE GLASS SOURCE IN OPHTHALMIC BRACHYTHERAPY - An ophthalmic radiation device and method employing a glass radiation-source in which a radioisotope is implemented as either a neutron-activated radioisotope, or radioisotope molecularly bonded to glass or encased in an encasement material. | 04-16-2015 |
20150306422 | APPARATUS FOR BRACHYTHERAPY - A double-balloon brachytherapy catheter includes an outer-balloon that is filled with a liquid substance or air via an outer-balloon-filler. Further, an inner-balloon is filled with a liquid substance or air via an inner-balloon-filler, with the inner-balloon inserted inside the outer-balloon. Additionally, a plurality of radiation-tubes is positioned in association within the inner-balloon, such as to an outside border of the inner-balloon and within the outer-balloon. Each radiation-tube out of the plurality is segmented into segments of differing hardness. In addition, a vacuum-tube can be wrapped around an exterior of the outer-balloon, where the vacuum tube is used to remove fluids and air to create a void. Also, the plurality of radiation-tubes can be configured to run longitudinally along a central shaft of the double-balloon brachytherapy catheter. | 10-29-2015 |
20150327941 | RADIATION SHIELDING IMPLANTS AND METHODS OF USE - A removable implant having a radiation shield adapted to reduce radiation exposure to one or more secondary radio-sensitive tissues during breast cancer radiation therapy is provided herein, the implant including: a flexible casing having: a base adapted for anchoring the implant to a chest wall of a patient; a cap disposed on the base; and a radiation-absorbing core adapted to absorb at least a portion of cardiac impact zone radiation when compared to a control, wherein the cap encloses the radiation-absorbing core, and wherein the radiation-absorbing core includes: a flexible solid polymer; and a plurality of radiation-absorbing members dispersed throughout the flexible solid polymer. In another embodiment, the implant further includes a breast tissue expander disposed on a top face of the flexible casing of the implant. Methods of use of the described implants are also provided herein. | 11-19-2015 |
20160074626 | System and Method for Targeted Delivery of Therapeutic Agents to Tissue - Novel systems for and methods of delivering therapeutic agents to target tissues are disclosed. The method of delivering a therapeutic agent to a target tissue involves identifying a target tissue via an imaging modality and then using a guidewire capable of anchoring in tissue to advance a cannula to the target tissue. The guidewire and novel cannula configurations enable rapid and repeated treatments of the target tissue without the need for subsequent imaging. The cannula is coupled to a source of ultrasound, radiation, radiofrequency energy, or chemotherapeutic agents which can then be delivered to from the cannula the target tissue. The system and method can be used to treat tumors that are small or surgically inoperable. In addition, the system can be used to treat lymphatic tissue that may contain metastases from the tumors. | 03-17-2016 |
20160082248 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PACING DURING REVASCULARIZATION - A system for use during revascularization includes a catheter having an adjustable balloon for delivery a stent, one or more pacing electrodes for delivering one or more pacing pulses to a patient's heart, and a pacemaker configured to generate the one or more pacing pulses to be delivered to the heart via the one or more pacing electrodes. The one or more pacing pulses are delivered at a rate substantially higher than the patient's intrinsic heart rate without being synchronized to the patient's intrinsic cardiac contractions, and are delivered before, during, or after an ischemic event to prevent or reduce cardiac injury. | 03-24-2016 |
20160144197 | RADIOTHERAPY COMBINED WITH HYPOXIC CELL SENSITIZERS - The invention discloses a method of treating cancer in a patient, comprising administering to the patient a radiation sensitizer selected from nitroimidazoles in an amount effective to sensitize a patient to radiation and subjecting the patient to radiation therapy. In certain embodiments the radiation sensitizer is etanidazole or doranidazole. | 05-26-2016 |
20160151645 | VIVO DRUG DEVELOPMENT AND DELIVERY SYSTEMS AND METHODS | 06-02-2016 |
20160193480 | PORTAL IMAGING FOR BRACHYTHERAPY | 07-07-2016 |
20160199668 | HIGH-DOSE RATE BRACHYTHERAPY SYSTEM | 07-14-2016 |
20160375270 | 3D Tracking of an HDR Source Using a Flat Panel Detector - A method and apparatus are used to compare an intended treatment plan using a radiation source with a delivered plan. This done by arranging markers at known three-dimensional (3D) positions in a detection reference system between a two dimensional radiation detector configured to acquire images generated by radiation emitted by the radiation source and an area where the radiation source is positioned during a treatment. The positions of projections of the markers on an image detected are determined when the radiation source is at a treatment position in an intended treatment plan reference system. A plurality of lines in the detection reference system are calculated, each line being defined by a 3D position of a marker and a 3D position of a corresponding projection of the marker on the detector according to the image. A 3D position of the radiation source in the detection reference system is inferred based on the calculated lines. If no correspondence between the detection reference system and the intended treatment plan reference system is available, the inferred 3D position is matched with the treatment position to extract the correspondence between the detection reference system and the an intended treatment plan reference system. If the correspondence between the detection reference system and the an intended treatment plan reference system is available, the inferred 3D position is compared with the treatment position. | 12-29-2016 |
20190143142 | INTRACAVITY BALLOON CATHETER | 05-16-2019 |
20190143143 | ANCHORED BRACHYTHERAPY DEVICE | 05-16-2019 |