Patent · US Expired

Methods and apparatus for loading radioactive seeds into brachytherapy needles

US6846283B2 · kind B2 · utility

28Cited by
9References
34Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateApr 25, 2002
Grant dateJan 25, 2005
Priority date
Expiry dateApr 25, 2022

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
  • CPC primaryA61N2005/1011
  • WIPO fieldMedical technology
  • WIPO sectorInstruments

Abstract

Methods and apparatus are provided for loading therapeutic materials into brachytherapy needles. The apparatus comprises an apparatus with chambers, and radioactive seed and spacer cartridges received therein. The apparatus may be used in conjunction with a standard brachytherapy needle coupled to the distal end of the apparatus. The plunger dislodges seeds and spacers from the cartridge chambers to load the needle with a predetermined packing arrangement.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.