Abstract: An X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to an embodiment includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to extract a characteristic site in a lumen that may be a constraint during insertion of a surgical device, from medical image data used for determining a path through which the surgical device is to be inserted. On the basis of the characteristic site, the processing circuitry is configured to determine a tip end direction defined in accordance with a curved shape of a tip end part of the surgical device, in each of a plurality of positions on the path. The processing circuitry is configured to output path information including the tip end direction in each of the positions on the path.

Abstract: A surgical instrument for use by an operator in a surgical procedure includes an elongate shaft, an end effector extending from the elongate shaft, and a control system. The end effector is articulatable relative to the elongate shaft between a home state position and an articulated position. The control system includes a processor and a memory coupled to the processor to store program instructions. The processor can alert the operator when the end effector reaches the home state position from the articulated position.

Abstract: An analyzer (124) includes a quantifier (204) configured to quantify an amount of contrast material representing scar tissue created by ablation for tissue of interest in contrast enhanced imaging data and a recommender (210) configured to generate a signal indicative of a recommendation to further ablate the tissue of interest in response to the quantified amount of the contrast material not satisfying a pre-determined threshold. A method includes obtaining contrast enhanced image data indicative of scar tissue created by ablation of tissue of interest, quantifying an amount of contrast material for the scar tissue in the tissue of interest, and generating a signal indicative of a recommendation to further ablate the tissue of interest in response to the quantified amount of the contrast material not satisfying a pre-determined threshold.

Abstract: A system is provided for identifying the sufficiency of lesions formed during a tissue ablation procedure. The system and method include administering an ICG composition to the patient and forming one or more lesions at a surgical site. The method further includes applying energy of a type and in an amount sufficient to cause ICG in the patient to fluoresce. An image of the tissue and lesion at the surgical site is obtained while the ICG fluoresces. The lesion is distinguished from surrounding de novo tissue based on areas of fluorescence to allow a user to evaluate the quality of the lesion.

Abstract: An on/off switching circuit includes an on/off switch switchable between an on state and an off state, an light emitting diode (LED) driver to power one or more LEDs to illuminate an area of interest, a switch control unit to transition the on/off switch between the on and off states, the switch control unit including a light sensing circuit comprising at least one LED of the LEDs as a light sensor, and a bi-directional gate circuit. When the on/off switch is in the off state the bi-directional gate is in a first conducting state in which the bi-directional gate circuit connects the light sensor to the light sensing circuit, and when the on/off switch is in the on state the bi-directional gate is in a second conducting state in which the bi-directional gate connects the LED driver to the one or more LEDs including the light sensor.

Abstract: This invention is regarding a set of stand-alone or combined-use surgical tools and associated systems and methods for performing surgical procedures such as identifying hidden tissue anatomy and dissecting the periphery tissues. In particular, this invention describes tools and the associated systems and methods for visualizing hidden important structures such as arteries, veins, ureters, bile duct, bowel, nodules, tumors, and performing tissue cutting using energy-based instrument. The tools are to be operated stand-alone or by attaching to existing instruments used for minimally invasive surgery.

Abstract: A two-dimensional optical scanning mirror device, a manufacturing method for the same, a two-dimensional optical scanning device and an image projector. A two-dimensional optical scanning mirror device includes a substrate, a movable mirror portion supported on the substrate in such a manner that two-dimension optical scanning is possible, a hard magnetic thin film provided in the movable mirror portion and a magnetic field generator that includes at least an alternating magnetic field generator for driving the movable mirror portion, where the hard magnetic thin film has a magnetization direction in a direction of a film plane, and the ratio of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generator relative to the coercive force of the hard magnetic thin film is 0.2 or lower.

Abstract: A blood pump assembly can include various components such as a housing and a sensor configured to detect one or more characteristics of the blood. In some embodiments, the sensor can be coupled to the housing and can include a sensor membrane configured to deflect in response to a change in a blood parameter (e.g., pressure). The blood pump assembly can include a shield that covers at least a portion of the sensor membrane so as to protect the sensor from damage when the blood pump assembly is inserted through an introducer and navigated through the patient's vasculature and/or when the blood pump assembly is inserted into the heart in a surgical procedure. One or more protective layers can be deposited over the sensor membrane to prevent the sensor membrane from being dissolved through interactions with the patient's blood.

Abstract: A system for deploying a device includes an elongated flexible instrument (108) and a shape sensing system (104) coupled to the flexible instrument. A hub (106) includes a shape profile configured to receive and maintain the flexible instrument with the shape sensing system therein. The shape profile includes a shape to track a position or a rotation of the hub relative to a reference position using the shape sensing system. The hub is configured to be coupled to a deployable device (102) such that a change in the position or rotation of the hub indicates a corresponding change in the deployable device.

Abstract: A system may include an expandable member, and a plurality of sensors disposed on an outer surface of the expandable member and circumferentially spaced apart from one another, wherein each of the plurality of sensors includes a first emitter configured to emit light of a first wavelength, and a detector configured to detect light, and a controller coupled to the plurality of sensors.

Abstract: Exemplary apparatus and method can be provided for obtaining data regarding a plurality of samples. For example, using at least one arrangement, it is possible to receive interferometric information that is based on radiations provided from a reference and the samples that are provided in respective chambers. Alternatively and/or in addition, based on the interferometric information, it is possible to discriminate between agents to identify a particular agent that affects a particular function within at least one of the samples.

Abstract: A device includes a scattering structure and a collection structure. The scattering structure is arranged to concurrently scatter incident electromagnetic radiation along a first scattering axis and along a second scattering axis. The first scattering axis and the second scattering axis are non-orthogonal. The collection structure includes a first input port aligned with the first scattering axis and a second input port aligned with the second scattering axis. A method includes scattering electromagnetic radiation along a first scattering axis to create first scattered electromagnetic radiation and along a second scattering axis to create second scattered electromagnetic radiation. The first scattering axis and the second scattering axis are non-orthogonal. The first scattered electromagnetic radiation is detected to yield first detected radiation and the second scattered electromagnetic radiation is detected to yield second detected radiation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for identification and discrimination of bacteria and/or mutant bacterial strains in a biological fluid. The method includes illuminating the biological fluid with a beam of light; obtaining Raman data from light scattered from the illuminated biological fluid; and finding Raman signatures corresponding to each type of bacteria and/or mutant bacterial strains from the obtained Raman data, so as to identify and discriminate each type of bacteria and/or mutant bacterial strains in the biological fluid from the Raman signatures.

Abstract: Implementations of the present disclosure include methods, systems, and computer-readable storage mediums for image reconstruction. Actions include receiving an image acquired by an endoscopic system including an optical fiber bundle with multiple optical fibers, each optical fiber being surrounded by cladding, determining in the image fiber core locations corresponding to the optical fibers, reconstructing missing information from the image using interpolation performed in accordance with the fiber core locations, the missing information corresponding to artifacts in the acquired image that result from the cladding, and providing a fiber-pattern removed image, in which the artifacts in the acquired image are removed using the missing information.

Abstract: Systems and methods for spatial optimization of blood measurements in tissue are disclosed. Exemplary methods include: measuring a first Raman signal from the tissue with a probe at a first position; calculating a first percentage of a blood component in the first Raman signal; moving the probe a predetermined distance to a second position; measuring a second Raman signal with the probe at the second position; calculating a second percentage of the blood component in the second Raman signal; moving the probe the predetermined distance to a third position when the second percentage is greater than the first percentage; measuring a third Raman signal with the probe at the third position; calculating a third percentage of the blood component in the third Raman signal; moving the probe to the second position when the third percentage is less than the second percentage; and taking spectral measurements from the second position.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method of providing a hyperspectral image of a scene comprising a point (p).

Abstract: An organic compound analyzer is provided which is capable of highly accurately determining a denaturation feature point on which a minute structural change of an organic compound is reflected. The organic compound analyzer includes an actual measured data storage section, an evaluation criterion vector setting section, a score calculation section, and a change feature point determination section. The actual measured data storage section is configured to store in pairs a plurality of actual measured spectra obtained through measurement of a sample containing an organic compound under a plurality of different external stimulus conditions, and external stimulus conditions under which spectra are respectively measured. The evaluation criterion vector setting section is configured to set a loading that indicates weighting to individual wavenumbers at which the spectra are measured.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, and systems for measuring collagen organization in the cervix, assessing the health of a woman's cervix (including a pregnant woman's cervix), characterizing the composition and structure of cervical tissue, and measuring preterm labor risk are provided. Polarization sensitive techniques and properties of cervical tissue, including birefringence, can be used. A method can include acquiring in vivo images of cervical tissue, applying Mueller matrix (MM) polarimetry (including 4×4 Mueller matrix polarimetry), and determining one or more parameters of the cervical tissue using the Mueller matrix (MM) polarimetry. The in vivo images can be analyzed and various parameters that characterize the cervical tissue can be determined. Graphs and maps of the cervical tissue can be generated for use as care provider tools.

Abstract: An imaging system is described for measuring the position or movement of a particle having a size of less than about 20 microns. The system comprises an optional sample holder configured to hold a sample with a particle, an optional illumination source configured to illuminate the sample, a lens having a magnification ratio from about 1:5 to about 5:1 and configured to generate the image of the sample, an image sensor having a pixel size of up to about 20 microns and configured to sense the image of the sample, and an image processor operatively connected to the image sensor to process the image of the particle in order to determine the position or movement of the particle. The dimension of the image of each particle is at least about 1.5 times the dimension of the particle multiplied by the magnification ratio of the lens, and the image of each particle is distributed on at least two pixels of the sensor. The imaged area of the sample is at least about one millimeter squared.

Abstract: A device comprises a light-guiding component, an optical component, and a light-reflecting component that is configured to receive light from the optical component and direct the light along a path. Also, at least one of the optical component and the light-reflecting component has an optical power in a tangential direction or a sagittal direction that compensates for a negative power of a sheath in the tangential direction to correct for aberration.

Abstract: [Problem] To provide a method for acquisition of data able to serve as an index for determining the likelihood that an ovarian endometriosis cyst is cancerous. Solution This data acquisition method for determining the likelihood that an ovarian endometriosis cyst is cancerous includes an iron concentration measurement step for measuring the iron concentration in the cystic fluid of the ovarian endometriosis cyst. This diagnostic device for diagnosing the likelihood that an ovarian endometriosis cyst is cancerous is provided, at a minimum, with an iron concentration measurement unit for measuring the iron concentration in the cystic fluid of the ovarian endometriosis cyst.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and devices for generating optical pulses in one or more waveguides using a spatially scanning light source. A detection system, methods of use thereof and kits for detecting a biologically active analyte molecule are also provided. The system includes a scanning light source, a substrate comprising a plurality of waveguides and a plurality of optical sensing sites in optical communication with one or more waveguide of the substrate, a detector that is coupled to and in optical communication with the substrate, and means for spatially translating a light beam emitted from said scanning light source such that the light beam is coupled to and in optical communication with the waveguides of the substrate at some point along its scanning path. The use of a scanning light source allows the coupling of light into the waveguides of the substrate in a simple and cost-effective manner.

Abstract: An imaging apparatus includes a converter configured to convert an analog signal obtained from detected interference light into a digital signal and a clock generator configured as an interferometer including an optical path through which part of light emitted from a light source passes, the optical path being split into a first optical path and a second optical path having an optical path length difference therebetween, to generate a clock used by the converter sampling the analog signal at a frequency corresponding to the optical path length difference. The converter includes n A/D converters, n being an integer of at least 2, and is configured to change phases of n clocks obtained from the clock to produce a phase difference therebetween, and to generate a clock having an n-times frequency from the n clocks and n analog signals obtained from the analog signal using the n A/D converters.

Abstract: This disclosure provides a photodynamic therapy diagnostic device capable of optical fiber puncture. This device comprises an optical fiber, a laser, a spectrocoupler and a fluorescence analyzer; in which the optical fiber comprises a body portion and a puncture needle head, one end of the body portion is connected with the puncture needle head, and the other end is connected with the spectrocoupler; in which the spectrocoupler is connected with the laser and the fluorescence analyzer to enable a laser emitted by the laser to enter the optical fiber via the spectrocoupler, and a fluorescence produced by the photosensitizer after absorbing the laser to enter fluorescence analyzer via the optical fiber and the spectrocoupler. This therapy diagnostic device, the laser emits a laser with a wavelength that can be absorbed by the photosensitive drug; the laser can pass through the spectrocoupler and then pass through the optical fiber needle tubing, so as to reach the tumor site in the body.

Abstract: An optical probe for use in medical instrumentation where a sheath is covering the optical probe, wherein the optical probe is configured to correct astigmatism by incorporating asymmetric optical powers.

Abstract: There is provided a camera head for endoscope which enables to achieve a favorable fluorescent image in any wavelength band when the observation is switched over from a normal white-light image observation to an observation of fluorescent images of different wavelength bands.

Abstract: A catheter probe comprises an insertion tube, and a distal end with a distal electrode, a force sensor to detect force on the distal electrode, and an irrigated electrode mounted on a coupling member of the force sensor, which has a tubular form surrounding a central space occupied by components, including force sensing coils. A fluid diverter that passes fluid to the proximal irrigated electrode is configured as an insert or an integrated projection of the coupling member, which configuration minimizes its space demand within the coupling member. Thus, the diameter of the distal end need not be increased. The fluid diverter has a proximal entry opening and a distal exit opening connected by a fluid passage with at least a radial branch and at least an axial branch. The irrigated electrode is mounted over the distal exit opening to receive fluid from the fluid passage.

Abstract: A blood pump assembly can include various components such as a housing and a sensor configured to detect one or more characteristics of the blood. In some embodiments, the sensor can be coupled to the housing and can include a sensor membrane configured to deflect in response to a change in a blood parameter (e.g., pressure). The blood pump assembly can include a shield that covers at least a portion of the sensor membrane so as to protect the sensor from damage when the blood pump assembly is inserted through an introducer and navigated through the patient's vasculature and/or when the blood pump assembly is inserted into the heart in a surgical procedure. One or more protective layers can be deposited over the sensor membrane to prevent the sensor membrane from being dissolved through interactions with the patient's blood.

Abstract: Medical borescopes and related methods. In some embodiments, a medical borescope may comprise a handle and a tube extending from the handle. The tube may be partially, or wholly, defined by an at least substantially non-conductive material, such as a suitable plastic, ceramic, or other non-metallic material. A tip assembly may be positioned at a distal end of the tube. The tip assembly may comprise a light source, a lens assembly, a printed circuit board, and an image sensor.

Abstract: An apparatus for delivering therapeutic agent to an eye comprises a body, a cannula, a hollow needle, an actuation assembly, and a detection/visualization system. The cannula extends distally from the body and is sized and configured to be insertable between a choroid and a sclera of a patient's eye. The actuation assembly is operable to actuate the needle relative to the cannula to thereby drive a distal portion of the needle along an exit axis. The cannula may be inserted through a sclerotomy incision and advanced through the choroid to deliver the therapeutic agent adjacent to the potential space between the neurosensory retina and the retinal pigment epithelium layer. The detection/visualization system is operable to detect or visualize penetration of the choroid of a patient's eye and provide feedback to the operator and/or automatic control of the apparatus based on penetration of the choroid.

Abstract: A scanning optical probe and method includes a cannula, optical fiber, lens, and an actuating mechanism for tilting the optical fiber back and forth within the cannula. An actuator in the probe handle is coupled to various flexing and guide components extending through the cannula and towards the distal end of the scanning optical probe. Reciprocating motion from the actuator is transmitted to the components thereby causing the optical fiber at the distal end of the scanning optical probe to aim across target surfaces. The light emitted from the optical fiber is processed to generate a scan of the target area.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a medical image diagnostic apparatus includes a storage memory, processing circuitry, and a display. The storage memory stores data of a plurality of FFR distribution maps constituting a time series regarding a coronary artery, and data of a plurality of morphological images corresponding to the time series. The processing circuitry converts the plurality of FFR distribution maps into a plurality of corresponding color maps, respectively. The display displays a plurality of superposed images obtained by superposing the plurality of color maps and the plurality of morphological images respectively corresponding in phase to the plurality of color maps. The display restricts display targets for the plurality of color maps based on the plurality of FFR distribution maps or the plurality of morphological images.

Abstract: An illuming device for use in medically illuminating tissue of interest within a patient generally includes a light diffusing optical fiber and an at least partially optically opaque sheath that is mounted over the fiber for selective, sliding movement along the length thereof. By sliding the sheath relative to the optical fiber after it has been inserted into a patient to illuminate a particular area of tissue, the length, size, and/or shape of the light that is exposed to the tissue can be selectively controlled. Such in situ variation of the properties of the exposed light permit use of a single instrument and a single procedure regardless of variation in the size and shape of the diseased tissue being medically treated.

Abstract: A forward-imaging optical coherence tomography probe is provided, comprising: a substantially cylindrical housing comprising: a longitudinal axis; an interior side; a distal end that is optically transparent; and a mirror located at the interior side, adjacent the distal end; an optical fiber located inside the cylindrical housing along the longitudinal axis; a wedge lens located inside the cylindrical housing, adjacent the distal end, the wedge lens configured to receive light from the fiber, and direct the light towards the mirror; and, at least one motor configured to both: rotate the fiber and the wedge lens about the longitudinal axis and inside the cylindrical housing; and, linearly displace the fiber and the wedge lens along the longitudinal axis and inside the cylindrical housing; the mirror configured to: receive light from the wedge lens and reflect the light out of the distal end as the wedge lens moves linearly and rotationally.

Abstract: An apparatus for performing an endoscopic procedure for detecting cancerous tissue includes a detection probe for detecting the cancerous tissue. The detection probe includes a first fiber for emitting an ultraviolet light beam having an orthogonal function applied thereto and a second fiber for receiving emissions from tissues responsive to the ultraviolet light beam emitted for the first fiber. An ultraviolet emission source generates the ultraviolet light beam. Orthogonal function circuitry applies the orthogonal function twist to the ultraviolet light beam. Detection circuitry detects fluorescence and orthogonal function within the emissions from the tissues received over the second fiber.

Abstract: The present invention provides a surgical tracking system for assisting an operator to perform a laparoscopic surgery of a human body, said surgical tracking system comprising: a. at least one endoscope adapted to acquire real-time images of a surgical environment within said human body; b. a maneuvering subsystem adapted to control the spatial position of said endoscope during said laparoscopic surgery; and, c. a tracking subsystem in communication with said maneuvering subsystem, adapted to control the maneuvering system so as to direct and modify the spatial position of said endoscope to a region of interest.

Abstract: A method and system are provided for visualizing a surgical path for a surgical tool. The method comprises a step of receiving anatomical information about a position of at least one anatomical structure in a region to undergo surgery, geometric information describing the surgical path and at least one safety margin defining a minimal distance between the surgical tool and the anatomical structure. The method further comprises defining a critical segment of the surgical path, in which critical segment a distance to the anatomical structure is smaller than the safety margin. Then a graphical representation of the surgical path is provided, wherein the critical segment is highlighted.

Abstract: Minimally invasive delivery with intercellular and/or intracellular localization of nano- and micro-particle solar cells within and among excitable biological cells to controllably regulate membrane polarization and enhance function of such cells. The cells include retinal and other excitable cells.

Abstract: Borescopes and related methods. In some embodiments, a medical borescope system may comprise a medical borescope comprising a tube comprising a first tube end and a second tube end opposite from the first tube end; a light source positioned adjacent to the first tube end and configured to generate light at the first tube end; an image sensor positioned adjacent to the first tube end. The system may further comprise a data communication link coupled with the image sensor and a dongle comprising an image processor configured to receive image data from the image sensor that is removably coupleable with the medical borescope such that the dongle can be coupled with a plurality of distinct medical borescopes. The dongle may be configured to at least one of receive and detect borescope-specific parameter data from the medical borescope, wherein the borescope-specific parameter data comprises data unique to the medical borescope.

Abstract: The disclosure provides an approach for simulating scattering in a participating medium. In one embodiment, a rendering application receives an image and depth values for pixels in the image, and generates multiple copies of the image associated with respective numbers of scattering events. The rendering application further applies per-pixel weights to pixels of the copies of the image, with the per-pixel weight applied to each pixel representing a probability of a light ray associated with the pixel experiencing the number of scattering events associated with the copy of the image in which the pixel is located. In addition, the rendering application applies a respective blur to each of the weighted copies of the image based on the number of scattering events associated with the weighted copy, sums the blurred weighted image copies, and normalizes the sum to account for conservation of energy.

Abstract: A miniaturized microscope provides the combined capability for simultaneous or sequential fluorescence imaging at two different wavelengths and/or at two different object planes within a sample to which a cannula is attached. The microscope includes an illumination input connector for connecting one or more illumination sources, a connector for connecting the microscope to the cannula, a pair of optical image sensors for imaging the two different object planes and/or wavelengths and a pair of optical splitters: one for separating the illumination from light returning from the sample and the other for splitting the light returning from the sample into two images and providing the two images to their corresponding image sensor.

Abstract: Catheter systems and methods for determining blood flow rates based on light reflection measurements. The catheter may include a lumen extending between a proximal end of the catheter and a distal end of the catheter. The catheter may include fluid infusion openings at the distal end region of the catheter that are configured to permit the indicator fluid to exit the catheter from the lumen. The catheter system may include an optical fiber having one or more sensors thereon for sensing light reflected by blood particles in a body vessel lumen. A blood flow rate may be determined based on the sensed light reflected by blood particles in the body vessel lumen.

Abstract: Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may include a medical device for measuring blood pressure. The medical device may include an elongated shaft having a proximal region and a distal region. An optical fiber may extend along the proximal region. The optical fiber may be secured to an inner surface of the shaft. An optical pressure sensor may be coupled to the optical fiber. The optical pressure sensor may be disposed along the distal region. A sealing member may be attached to the optical fiber and may have a surface engaged with the inner surface of the shaft.

Abstract: A fiber-optic force sensor, comprising an FBG fiber that has a force sensor region, to which bracing means to eliminate or decouple laterally effective forces and bending moments are assigned in such a way that the force sensor has a predominantly single-axis response characteristic to detect merely the magnitude of a force acting axially in the fiber direction.

Abstract: A catheter device for crossing occlusions includes an elongate body, a central lumen extending within the elongate body from the proximal end to the distal end, a rotatable tip at the distal end of the elongate body, and an OCT imaging sensor. The rotatable tip is configured to rotate relative to the elongate body. The OCT imaging sensor includes an optical fiber coupled with the rotatable tip and configured to rotate therewith. A distal end of the elongate body includes one or more markers configured to occlude the OCT imaging sensor as it rotates. A fixed jog in the elongate body proximal to the distal end of the catheter positions the distal end of the catheter at an angle relative to the region of the catheter proximal to the fixed jog and is aligned with the one or more markers on the elongate body.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for rendering an image of a fibrous material. The method includes providing parametric fibrous material optical properties derived from actual material fiber samples via the apparatus; providing a parametric virtual light environment; providing a virtual fibrous material array; and rendering an image of the virtual fibrous material array according to the interaction of the parametric fibrous material properties and the parametric virtual light environment.

Abstract: A method of directing energy to tissue includes the initial steps of determining target tissue location and/or target tissue margins, positioning an ablation device for delivery of energy to target tissue, and positioning one or more heat-sensitive optical probes into a tissue region to be monitored. Each heat-sensitive optical probe is adapted to utilize spectral properties of light to access one or more optical fiber portions of the heat-sensitive optical probe in response to heat.

Abstract: Techniques are generally described for a treatment balloon, and methods and systems effective to detect a position of a beam. The system may include a treatment balloon effective to receive the beam. The treatment balloon may include a shaft and a balloon portion with an open end in communication with the shaft. The balloon portion may be effective to be at least partially filled with a fluid. The treatment balloon may be effective to generate a light wave when the treatment beam is incident on the treatment balloon. A waveguide in the treatment balloon may be effective to receive the light wave. A light detector in optical communication with the waveguide may be effective to detect the light wave. A processor in communication with the light detector may be effective to detect the position of the beam.

Abstract: A probe is shown. According to one implementation, the following is included at a tip of the probe, as the optical system. A first optical fiber system forms an irradiating light guiding path to guide irradiating light. A second optical fiber system forms a receiving light guiding path to guide measuring light. A condenser lens system is positioned opposed to the first optical fiber system and the second optical fiber system, and the irradiating light is irradiated thereon and the measuring light is condensed. An optical axis of the condenser lens system, a central axis of a light emitting end of the first optical fiber system, and a central axis of a light receiving end of the second optical fiber system are positioned so a straight line which passes through two axes does not pass through a remaining axis.

Abstract: Compositions comprising nanoparticles, such as silver or gold nanoparticles or carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and apoptotic agents are described. The nanoparticles can significantly enhance the cancer chemotherapeutic effects of the apoptotic agents. In particular, a highly increased anti-tumor activity has been demonstrated for the combination of etoposide and CNTs against HeLa cells compared to the administration of either etoposide alone or nanoparticles alone. Data provided by flow cytometry, Caspase 3 and other methods, suggest a strong interaction between the nanoparticles and the cellular structure, which can result in the improved effectiveness of chemotherapeutic agents. These findings provide potential new cancer therapies by carefully selecting the right combination of cytostatic drugs and nanostructural materials which synergistically provide significantly greater curative rates.