Device and method for shielding healthy tissue during radiation therapy
US5360666A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 11, 1993 |
| Grant date | Nov 1, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 11, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/256
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
During radiotherapy for malignant conditions, healthy tissues can suffer from radiation damage. Traditional radiation shields designed to protect healthy tissues are prepared by a lengthy, multi-step complex procedure. Materials are described for preparation of a radiation shield for use during radiation therapy, especially therapy of the head and neck, where the material comprises a composite of non-radioactive, non-toxic high atomic density metal or metal alloy spherical particles dispersed in a manually moldable elastomeric material. Custom radiation shields are formulated of this material without the need for use of impressions or molds. Healthy tissues may then be shielded during radiation therapy by positioning the custom-fitted radiation shield in the desired location on the patient's body.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.