Abstract: The invention is directed to a therapy device, including a body, an energy source disposed on the body for emitting a desired wavelength of electromagnetic radiation, and a material dispensing system disposed on the body for dispensing a desired material for use with the device. Also disclosed are accessories and compositions used with the therapy device, including interchangeable energy source-containing heads and interchangeable material containers. Methods for using the therapy device are also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods for extracting large scale biological, biochemical or molecular information about an index disease, biological state, or systems from imaging by correlating the imaging features associated with said disease, state or system with corresponding large scale biological data.

Abstract: A device and a process for performing high temporal- and spatial-resolution MR imaging of the anatomy of a patient during intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to directly measure and control the highly conformal ionizing radiation dose delivered to the patient for the treatment of diseases caused by proliferative tissue disorders. This invention combines the technologies of open MRI, multileaf-collimator or compensating filter-based IMRT delivery, and cobalt teletherapy into a single co-registered and gantry mounted system.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for treating cancer in a human comprising (a) administering to the human a dose of a pharmaceutical composition comprising (i) a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and (ii) an adenoviral vector comprising a nucleic acid sequence encoding a human TNF-? and operably linked to a promoter, wherein the dose comprises about 4×107 to about 4×1012 particle units (pu) of adenoviral vector, at least once in a therapeutic period comprising up to about 10 weeks, (b) administering a dose of ionizing radiation to the human over the duration of the therapeutic period, and (c) administering a dose of one or more chemotherapeutics to the human over the duration of the therapeutic period, whereby the cancer in the human is treated.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are described for irradiating living tissue via a cavity or lumen, using an inflatable balloon applicator. In a preferred embodiment the applicator balloon has a balloon skin with x-ray contrast material in relatively low concentration, so that an outline of the balloon will appear sharply when imaged externally. In another preferred embodiment the balloon catheter has a drain for withdrawing liquids from the cavity, which may include channels or texture on the exterior of the balloon. Methods are described for using a switchable miniature x-ray tube, variable as to voltage and current, to achieve accuracy in an isodose profile.

Abstract: Device and methods for the treatment of wounds using ultrasound energy are disclosed. The portable wound treatment device may deliver ultrasound energy to a wound through direct contact with the ultrasound tip and/or through a liquid coupling medium. Several ultrasound tips specially designed to concentrate and focus ultrasound energy onto a wound are also disclosed. The ultrasound tip may also possess an abrasive peripheral boundary to aid in debriding the wound and/or removing necrotic tissue. The disclosed invention may have multiple beneficial effects in treating a wound such as sterilizing a wound, reducing external bleeding, and/or providing pain relief.

Abstract: The invention relates to a positioning device for positioning a patient in a medical device comprising a patient receiving device for placing a patient and a robot arm having a plurality of movement axes for positioning the patient receiving device in a room. The positioning device can be placed into a manual operating mode in which a position of the patient receiving device in the room can be changed manually. The invention also relates to a method for operating the positioning device, comprising: providing a normal operating mode for positioning the patient receiving device automatically at a position predefined by a control device; providing a manual operating mode for manually changing a position of the patient receiving device; and switching from the normal operating mode into the manual operating mode if a switchover condition is present. The invention further relates to an irradiation device having the positioning device.

Abstract: A particle therapy system for irradiating a volume of a patient to be irradiated with high-energy particles is provided. The system includes a radiation outlet of a radiation delivery and acceleration system from which a particle beam exits in order to interact with the patient positioned in an irradiation position; an imaging device for verifying the position of the volume to be irradiated in relation to the particle beam; and a patient-positioning device with which the patient can be brought into the irradiation position for irradiation. The imaging device checks the position of the volume to be irradiated in an imaging position of the patient that is spatially remote from the irradiation position, and the patient-positioning device automatically changes position between imaging position and irradiation position.

Abstract: A methodology and system for lysing adipose tissue including directing ultrasonic energy at a multiplicity of target volumes within the region, which target volumes contain adipose tissue, thereby to selectively lyse the adipose tissue in the target volumes and generally not lyse non-adipose tissue in the target volumes and computerized tracking of the multiplicity of target volumes notwithstanding movement of the body.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are described for irradiating living tissue via a cavity or lumen, using an inflatable balloon applicator. In a preferred embodiment the applicator balloon has a balloon skin with x-ray contrast material in relatively low concentration, so that an outline of the balloon will appear sharply when imaged externally. In another preferred embodiment the balloon catheter has a drain for withdrawing liquids from the cavity, which may include channels or texture on the exterior of the balloon. Methods are described for using a switchable miniature x-ray tube, variable as to voltage and current, to achieve accuracy in an isodose profile.

Abstract: A method for radiotherapy treatment of a target organ in the vicinity of the rectum in an individual comprises withdrawing the rectum in a dorsal direction to increase a distance between the rectum and the target organ, and administering a therapeutical dose of radiation to the target organ while the rectum is in the withdrawn position. In one embodiment, the target organ is the prostate. A system for use in radiotherapy treatment of a target organ in the vicinity of the rectum in an individual comprises a cylindrical rectal rod adapted for insertion into a rectum of the individual, and a support surface operable to support an individual in a lithotomy position to receive a beam of radiation to the target organ. The system may further include a radiation source for administering a beam of radiation to the target organ of an individual.

Abstract: An ion radiation therapy machine provides a steerable beam for treating a tumor within the patient where the exposure spot of the beam is controlled in width and/or length to effect a flexible trade-off between treatment speed, accuracy, and uniformity.

Abstract: A device and corresponding methods for drying medical equipment involving a dryer for drying the medical equipment; and a supply orb having a body and a cavity within the body for holding, ventilating, and storing the medical equipment, the at least one supply orb being mechanically coupled to the dryer for operation and being mechanically decoupled from the dryer during non-operation. The supply orb having a ventilation feature and a configuration conducive to creating a combined irrotational and rotational gas flow therein.

Abstract: Compact particle selection and collimation devices are disclosed for delivering beams of ions with desired energy spectra. These devices are useful with laser-accelerated ion therapy systems, in which the initial ions have broad energy and angular distributions. Superconducting electromagnet systems produce a desired magnetic field configuration to spread the ions with different energies and emitting angles for particle selection. The simulation of ion transport in the presence of the magnetic field shows that the selected ions are successfully refocused on the beam axis after passing through the magnetic field. Dose distributions are also provided using Monte Carlo simulations of the laser-accelerated ion beams for radiation therapy applications.

Abstract: New intracorporeal radiodense medicaments and certain medical uses and methods for use of such high energy phototherapeutic medicaments for treatment of human or animal tissue are described, wherein a primary active component of such medicaments is a halogenated xanthene or halogenated xanthene derivative. The halogenated xanthenes constitute a family of potent radiosensitizers that become photoactivated upon irradiation of the treatment site with ionizing radiation.

Abstract: Methods for preventing damage to the epidermis during PDT induced using a pre-photosensitizing agent are provided. The methods of the present invention utilize spatial confinement to control formation of a photoactive species from a topically-applied pre-photosensitizing agent. In one embodiment, thermal inhibition is used to prevent the metabolism of a pre-photosensitizing agent in epithelial tissue surrounding a treatment site. In another embodiment, a chemical inhibitor can be applied to the epithelial tissue to inhibit the conversion of a pre-photosensitizing agent into a phototoxic species.

Abstract: A functional sheet which exercises desired actions such as healing effect in high efficiency, without restriction by its use condition and the like is provided. A functional sheet 1 which exercises functions such as healing effect, relaxation effect, decomposition and removal of harmful substances according to complex functions such as generation of minus ions and/or photocatalyst function, by supporting a photocatalyst powder 10 such as titania (TiO2), tin oxide (SnO), zinc oxide (ZnO), SnO2, ZrO2, and WO3 which is oxidized in a structure of which a bond with oxygen is decreased as goes from its surface into the inside gradually, and a radioactive powder 20 containing a natural radioactive substance such as thorium (Th), for example, the powder of monazite, in a condition in which they are mutually brought in contact or adjacent, on a carrier 30 which forms a sheet shape composed by entangling a lot of fibers such as nonwoven fabric.

Abstract: The invention relates to a radiotherapy assembly comprising a particle emitter (2) with an exit window (4) for a fixed particle stream (6) and a patient support device (16) comprising a patient couch (18A, 18B), which can be brought into an irradiation position that is suitable for irradiating a patient (22) in front of the exit window (4). An X-ray diagnostic device (8) determines or verifies the position of a tumour that is to be irradiated, said device (8) comprising an X-ray source (12) and a detector (14), which can be displaced in the area around the patient couch (18A, 18B) that has been placed in the irradiation position. The assembly permits the location of a tumour to be verified in the irradiation position, thus rendering a relocation of the patient unnecessary.

Abstract: An apparatus comprises an elongated delivery member and a scaffold. The elongated delivery member has a distal end, a fixed portion and an actuator portion. The actuator portion is disposed proximate to the distal end. The actuator portion and the fixed portion are movable with respect to each other. The scaffold is mounted to the elongated delivery member proximate to the distal end. The scaffold has a first end coupled to the fixed portion. The scaffold has a second end coupled to the actuator portion. The scaffold is changeable between a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration by movement of at least the actuator portion and the fixed portion relative to each other.

Abstract: A combination applicator is able to deliver heat and radiation, either simultaneously or sequentially, for the treatment of cancer or other disease. The combination applicator is flexible and able to conform to contoured anatomy of the patient. The combination applicator comprises a flexible, dielectric containing compartment having a tissue-engaging surface and an opposite, non-tissue-engaging surface. A heating surface comprising one or more RF or microwave antennas or ultrasound transducers is supported adjacent to the non-tissue-engaging surface. In addition, a plurality of conduits are also supported on the dielectric containing compartment, the conduits being adapted to communicate with at least one brachytherapy source. Additional conduits may be located on the tissue contacting surface of the dielectric containing compartment to accommodate moving or stationary temperature monitoring sensors.

Abstract: A method of treating cancer. The method includes introducing an effective amount of an oxidative catalyzing agent including titanium oxide, zinc oxide, zirconium oxide, tungsten oxide or tin oxide into a biological entity, and irradiating the biological entity with a ray. The oxidative catalyzing agent produces hydroxyl or hydrogen peroxide radicals after irradiation with the ray thereon.

Abstract: A system and method of treating cancerous tissues using a combination of embolization and ablation therapies is described. An imaging device is used to determine the tissue volume to be treated, and the steps of embolization and ablation are performed while the patient remains on a treatment table. The embolization treatment may be combined with chemotherapy directly administered to the tumor. The position of the volume to be treated is visualized by the imaging device to monitor the progress of the treatment and to guide ablation treatment so as to mitigate collateral tissue damage. The imaging device may be a C-arm X-ray device, a MRI device, an acoustic device or other device capable of producing CT-like images.

Abstract: An interstitial brachytherapy apparatus and methods for treating proliferative tissue disorders with radiation and a surface delivered treatment agent. The brachytherapy device includes an insertion member having proximal and distal portions and at least one lumen extending therethrough. An expandable surface member is mated to the distal portion of the insertion member and includes a treatment agent releasably mated thereon. When the brachytherapy device is positioned within a tissue cavity and the expandable surface member is expanded, at least a portion of the treatment agent is delivered to tissue surrounding the tissue cavity.

Abstract: A method of treating a region of diseased tissue using a probe is disclosed. A probe cannula is introduced into the tissue of the patient until a distal end of the cannula is located at or proximate to the treatment region. A plurality of electrodes are then deployed from the distal end of the cannula into the treatment region. Energy (e.g., radiofrequency energy) is then delivered through the plurality of electrodes to the tissue. The cannula is then secured to an immobile object external to the patient. The treatment region is irradiated with a therapeutically effective dose of an ionizing radiation while the plurality of electrodes remain at least partially advanced within the treatment region and while the cannula remains secured to the immobile object.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the treatment of cancer in a patient in need thereof. The method comprises administering to a patient in need thereof a first amount of a histone deacetylase inhibitor in a first treatment procedure, and a second amount or dose of radiation in a second treatment procedure. The first and second treatments together comprise a therapeutically effective amount. The combination of the HDAC inhibitor and radiation therapy is therapeutically synergistic.

Abstract: Contrast agents developed specifically for x-ray diagnostics provide dose-enhanced radiotherapy and radiosurgery. The presence of heavy elements, for example, gold or iron, from these contrast agents, even small quantities, leads to a major dose increase in target tissue when combined with in vivo calibration of the amount of contrast agent. The technique can also be used in combination with other techniques, such as focused x-rays, to achieve further enhancement of therapeutic ratio. The technique is enhanced by employing oil-based contrast agents, which will remain in the target much longer than conventional agents. Through optimization of the equipment it is possible to achieve very large ratios of dose in target to dose in healthy tissue.

Abstract: Methods for optimal breast reconstruction are disclosed. The methods include steps for performing a mastectomy that preserves a breast skin envelope. A prosthesis may be inserted into the breast and may be inflated to preserve the shape of the breast skin envelope. The prosthesis may include, a base, a balloon coupled to the base, where the balloon may be inflated to preserve the shape of the breast skin envelope. The prosthesis may also include tube coupled to port for filling the balloon to a predetermined volume. A needle-lock system, coupled to the port may be used to inject, for example, fluids into the balloon. If a patient requires post-mastectomy radiation, breast reconstruction may be delayed and the prosthesis may remain in the breast cavity during the treatment. The treatment may be external beam radiation. Alternatively, the treatment may include brachytherapy technique for treating the internal breast cavity.

Abstract: A marker system includes a structure having a first surface and a second surface, a first marker located on the first surface, and a second marker located on the second surface, wherein the first marker and the second marker are arranged so that they face approximately a same direction, and so that they can be simultaneously viewed by an optical device, and wherein a first distance between the first marker and the optical device is different from a second distance between the second marker and the optical device when the first and the second markers are simultaneously viewed by the optical device.

Abstract: A system for treating target cells with both positive and negative ions comprises a bi-polar beam delivery system configured to create and deliver both positive ion beams and negative ion beams. The bi-polar beam delivery system comprises a bi-polar accelerator configured to accelerate positive and negative ions in the same direction making such a bi-polar bema delivery system practical.

Abstract: A tomographic imaging system comprising a source array emitting rays, a deformable mirror reflecting the rays emitted by the source array, and a detector array receiving the electromagnetic rays emitted by the source array and reflected by the deformable mirror. An object can be positioned between the deformable mirror and the detector array and the deformable mirror can be deformed to a plurality of configurations to form a tomographic image of the object. The system can also be used in radiation therapy.

Abstract: An embodiment of the invention is related to a system for providing radiotherapy to a treatment region. The system includes a radiation source and a sound source. The radiation source is positioned to irradiate the treatment region. The sound source is positioned to provide ultrasound to the treatment region so that the treatment region is subject to coincidental treatment by irradiation and ultrasound.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for immunoimaging and destruction of malignant tumors using immunoimaging agents comprising nanoclusters incorporating monoclonal antibodies that selectively bind to the cell membrane of tumor cells, and conjugated payloads comprising an encapsulated near-infrared (NIR) fluorescing crystal. The encapsulated fluorescing crystal compound provides excellent non-radiometric imaging of the tumor, and the non-antigenic metal coating encapsulating the fluorescing crystal particles provides a non-destructive necrotic killing of the tumor cells by low-level radiometric amplification and heating of the tumor cell membrane. Thus the very same nanoclusters used during imaging also serve to kill the tumor cells by necrosis, damaging the cell membrane by overheating as a result of secondary irradiation (not by harmful radiometric-induced apoptosis).

Abstract: An apparatus for sterilizing a blood vessel in a patient's inner skin includes a generator for providing gaseous radioisotope and a chamber adapted to exposure of a portion of a patient's body to the gaseous radioisotopes. When a patient is contacted with gaseous radioisotopes, alpha and beta particles are emitted from the gaseous radioisotopes into inner skin of the patient. Ultraviolet rays, subsequently emitted from the skin, sterilize viruses or bacteria present in a blood vessel. A method of treating a patient with the apparatus is also provided.

Abstract: A radiation therapy system for irradiating a target volume with a particle beam is provided. The radiation therapy system includes a radiation source that is operable to output an adjustable irradiation field that includes a particle beam that is scanned point by point over the target volume. A 3D imaging device may obtain a 3D radiation treatment data set in a radiation treatment phase. An adaptation unit adapts the irradiation field to a change in position and/or shape of the target volume in the radiation treatment phase. The adaptation unit compares the 3D radiation treatment data set with a 3D planning image data set furnished and obtains a transformation that describes the change in position and/or shape of the target volume. The adaptation unit transforms an irradiation field based on the transformation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing a radioactive brachytherapy source material comprising indium-114m in radioactive equilibrium with indium-114 as main radioactive isotopes. A new radioactive brachytherapy source material comprises indium-114m in radioactive equilibrium with indium-114 as main radioactive isotopes. A new encapsulated radioactive brachytherapy source comprises the new radioactive brachytherapy source material.

Abstract: The present system and method for simulating particles and waves is useful for calculations involving nuclear and full spectrum radiation transport, quantum particle transport, plasma transport and charged particle transport. The invention provides a mechanism for creating accurate invariants for embedding in general three-dimensional problems and describes means by which a series of simple single collision interaction finite elements can be extended to formulate a complex multi-collision finite element.

Abstract: A garment and method for reducing electromagnetic radiation produced by a transmitting device typically located inside a body. The garment may include material to prevent or lower electromagnetic radiation. A method for using such a garment to lower electromagnetic emissions is described.

Abstract: Improved method and apparatus for neutron capture therapy are provided that may beneficially be used to counteract restenosis wherein a stent comprises a stable nuclide having a large neutron capture cross-section that may be irradiated with thermal neutrons applied by an external source, after placement of the stent, thereby giving rise to therapeutic radiation in the proximity of the stent. Because the stent only contains stable nuclides, it can be handled without the precautions needed when handling radioactive matter. An improved stent and a method for manufacturing the stent also are provided.

Abstract: A method for photoselective vaporization of prostate tissue includes delivering laser radiation to the treatment area on the tissue, via an optical fiber for example, wherein the laser radiation has a wavelength and irradiance in the treatment area on the surface of the tissue sufficient because vaporization of a substantially greater volume of tissue than a volume of residual coagulated tissue caused by the laser radiation. The laser radiation is generated using a neodymium doped solid-state laser, including optics producing a second or higher harmonic output with greater than 60 watts average output power. The delivered laser radiation has a wavelength for example in a range of about 200 nm to about 650 nm, and has an average irradiance in the treatment area greater than about 10 kilowatts/cm2, in a spot size of at least 0.05 mm2.

Abstract: A microwave hyperthermia apparatus that can be inserted into the body which includes a hollow central tube for the insertion of radioactive therapy sources. The use of a coaxial transmission line impedance transformation along the insertable portion of the coaxial cable enables a reduction in the characteristic impedance by increasing the outer diameter of the inner coaxial conductor so that the center conductor can be a metal tube. If the ratio of the outer coaxial conductor diameter vs. the inner coaxial conductor is decreased, the characteristic impedance of the transmission line is lowered. This enables the inner conductor diameter to increase sufficiently to make the central hollow opening large enough to receive standard radioactive sources therein. This provides for a good impedance match that improves microwave energy efficiency while at the same time permitting a large hollow center opening.

Abstract: A tracking system for stone treatment by extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy includes a data processing unit, a motion controller, a servo-moving platform, a stone image-processing module, a stone localization module, and a moving-mechanism control module. With the use of the stone-tracking system, the performance of an extracorporeal shock wave lithotriptor can be greatly improved, resulting in less side effect such as tissue damage.

Abstract: A flexible source wire is provided containing a radioactive source that is capable of maneuvering through a tortuous narrow passage to a treatment site within the body. This source wire includes a thin flexible housing tube, housing therein a flexible backbone wire, wherein both the tube and the wire are constructed from a material exhibiting little or no memory retention when bent. A radioactive core is provided in the proximal end (i.e., the treatment end) of the thin flexible housing tube and abuts the proximal end of the backbone wire. Both ends of the source wire are sealed and the proximal end of the source wire is rounded to allow ease of movement as it travels through the bends and turns in the body.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for simultaneously treating a tumor or cancerous growth with both hyperthermia and X-ray radiation using brachytherapy. The device includes a needle-like introducer serving as a microwave antenna. Microwaves are emitted from the introducer to increase the temperature of cancerous body tissue. The introducer is an inner conductor of a coaxial cable. The introducer contains a hollow core which houses an X-ray emitter. The X-ray emitter is connected to a high voltage miniature cable which extends from the X-ray emitter to a high voltage power source. The X-ray emitter emits ionizing radiation to irradiate cancerous tissue. A cooling system is included to control the temperature of the introducer. Temperature sensors placed around the periphery of the tumor monitor the temperature of the treated tissue.

Abstract: Optical probes that may withstand a variety of hostile environments and that may provide high optical throughput are described herein. According to one exemplary embodiment, an optical probe may include a tube, an optical element, a cap, and a spring. The tube may have a first end, a second end, and an inner surface. The optical element may be insertable into the tube through the first end and may have an outer surface. A portion of the tube inner surface and a portion of the optical element outer surface may be matably tapered to provide a substantially fluid tight seal between the tube and the optical element. The cap may be attachable to the first end. The spring may be compressible between the optical element and the cap.

Abstract: A multi-source x-ray/catheter delivers x-rays to a selected site within a body lumen. The x-ray sources are independently operable so that only the x-ray sources adjacent the target site generate x-rays during the procedure.

Abstract: A controller is provided for selectively and independently control each of a plurality of therapeutic radiation sources arranged along an array. The controller is operable to selectively generate therapeutic radiation at selected time intervals and at selected intensities. The controller includes intensity control circuitry for controlling the intensity of the therapeutic radiation generated by each therapeutic radiation source. The controller also includes duration control circuitry for controlling the duration of the therapeutic radiation generated by each therapeutic radiation source. The controller may also include a mechanical introducer for inserting the array into a treatment region, and for withdrawing the array from the treatment region.

Abstract: This invention relates to a novel idea for irradiating a patient with a beam of Muon (&mgr;) particles, which in the proton (H+) rich environment of the blood and the cells catalyzes more fusions of the Hydrogen-Deuterium, Deuterium-Deuterium, and Deuterium-Tritium nuclei. Through local radiation of the related body part(s), the already existing fusion energy is accelerated within the particular body part(s), thus facilitating the treatment of diseases. Muon bombardment of the cells can be applied for the treatment of all kinds of conditions and injuries, including AIDS and other infectious diseases, all cancers, all varieties of internal and external injuries and internal disorders, weight loss, repairment and rejuvenation of all body organs, treatment of enzyme inhibition, all neurological disorders, including paralysis, all psychological disorders, all genetic disorders, all endocrine system disorders, and all musculoskeletal disorders.

Abstract: Contrast agents developed specifically for x-ray diagnostics provide dose-enhanced radiotherapy and radiosurgery. The presence of heavy elements, for example, gold or iron, from these contrast agents, even small quantities, leads to a major dose increase in target tissue when combined with in vivo calibration of the amount of contrast agent. The technique can also be used in combination with other techniques, such as focused x-rays, to achieve further enhancement of therapeutic ratio. The technique is enhanced by employing oil-based contrast agents, which will remain in the target much longer than conventional agents. Through optimization of the equipment it is possible to achieve very large ratios of dose in target to dose in healthy tissue.

Abstract: A system for delivery of high dosage of radiation to a targeted spinal area is provided. This is accomplished by a system which provides for precise immobilization and positioning of the treated spinal area during dose planning and treatment via stereotactic radiosurgery. Advantages of the system include convenience to the patient, enhanced efficacy, and reduced risk of radiotoxicity to non-target tissues.

Abstract: The method and device of the present invention for ultrasound wound treatment includes a transducer to produce ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic transducer has tip with the distal end (radiation surface). A liquid is directed to the radiation surface throug central orifice or separate tube wherein an directed atomized particle spray of the liquid is created upon contact of the liquid with the radiation surface. The spray directed to the wound from at least 0.1 inches transmits ultrasound waves trough particles and has an irrigation, mechanical cleansing, liquid energizing and bactericide effect.