Customized gynecological brachytherapy applicator and method
US7744521B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 21, 2007 |
| Grant date | Jun 29, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 26, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N5/1016
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A customized gynecological brachytherapy applicator is formed by placing a molded balloon, which is secured to a handle, into a vaginal cavity and then filling the mold balloon with a settable liquid material. The material may be an expanding foam or any other form of curable material that becomes solid, rigid or pliable, when set by chemical action, temperature change, oxidation, a curing means such as a light, or other curing regime. The mold balloon can be elastic or inelastic, depending on the degree to which the applicator is to conform its external surfaces to the vaginal contours. One or more lumina are provided in the set filler material to receive a radiation source, with additional lumina optionally provided for purposes such as drainage or administration of therapeutic agents. The applicator may be withdrawn and reinserted into the vagina during treatment, and selected tissues adjacent to the applicator are irradiated in accordance with a radiation prescription.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.