Intracavity probe and interface device for MRI imaging and spectroscopy
US5348010A · kind A · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 24, 1992 |
| Grant date | Sep 20, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 24, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01R33/3657
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An insertable pickup probe and interface network for magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy. The pickup probe in the preferred embodiment is for use in imaging the male prostate and comprises an elongated shaft supporting a patient interface balloon at its distal end which contains a RF receiving coil. The interface balloon comprises an inflatabe inner balloon enclosed by a flexible outer balloon. The receiving coil is positioned between the inner and outer balloons and placed intimately adjacent the region of interest by inflating the inner balloon to expand outwardly against the outer balloon. In addition, a non-stretchable planar material is provided on the surface on the inner balloon adjacent the receiving coil for ensuring that the receiving coil is placed adjacent the region of interest. The inner balloon is inflated by an inflator cuff connected to the shaft and communicated to the inner balloon by a first lumen in the shaft. The receiving coil is electrically connected to an interconnecting cable which is connected to the proximal end of the shaft and communicated to the receiving coil by a second lumen in the shaft. An interface network is also provided which receive…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.