Image guided high intensity focused ultrasound device for therapy in obstetrics and gynecology
US7520856B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 29, 2004 |
| Grant date | Apr 21, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 25, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2090/378
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A frame ensures that the alignment between a high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) transducer designed for vaginal use and a commercially available ultrasound image probe is maintained, so that the HIFU focus remains in the image plane during HIFU therapy. A water-filled membrane placed between the HIFU transducer and the treatment site provides acoustic coupling. The coupling is evaluated to determine whether any air bubbles exist at the coupling interface, which might degrade the therapy provided by the HIFU transducer. HIFU lesions on tissue appear as hyperechoic spots on the ultrasound image in real time during application of HIFU therapy. Ergonomic testing in humans has demonstrated clear visualization of the HIFU transducer relative to the uterus and showed the potential for the HIFU transducer to treat fibroids from the cervix to the fundus through the width of the uterus.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.