Grooved brachytherapy sources

US7083566B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• GE HEALTHCARE LIMITED · GB

Inventors

• Audun Tornes · Oslo, NO
• Morten Eriksen · Oslo, NO

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 12, 2001
• Grant date: Aug 1, 2006
• Expiry date: Apr 12, 2021

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61N2005/1024
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Radioactive sources, preferably radioactive seeds, for use in brachytherapy comprising a radioisotope within a sealed biocompatible container, wherein at least one part of the outer surface of the container is grooved, preferably with a curved groove. The grooved outer surface is preferably substantially free from angularities. Such grooves enhance the echogenicity of the source using medical ultrasound at a greater range of angles to the ultrasound probe, thus enhancing the ultrasound visibility of the source. Preferred radioisotopes are palladium-103 and iodine-125.