Methods and apparatus for engagement and coupling of an intracavitory imaging and high intensity focused ultrasound probe
US8052604B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 31, 2007 |
| Grant date | Nov 8, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 29, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2090/3784
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A combined imaging/HIFU probe includes an imaging scan head, a HIFU transducer, and an outlet port that delivers a flow of fluid across the HIFU transducer. At least a portion of the body cavity is filled with fluid in which the probe is immersed. The fluid provides a coupling for transmission of ultrasound energy between the probe and the patient. A flow of fluid may also be used to flush obstructions from an area of tissue near the HIFU transducer. Further described herein is a cuff to help retain fluid in the body cavity, a regulator to regulate fluid flow with respect to the body cavity according to a desired fluid pressure, and a cover for the HIFU transducer that has at least one perforation defined therethrough to allow fluid to flow through the cover. Further disclosed herein are methods of deploying a combined imaging/HIFU probe in a body cavity.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.