Abstract: Methods and apparatus for the remote coagulation of blood using high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) are provided. A remote hemostasis method comprises identifying a site of internal bleeding and focusing therapeutic ultrasound energy on the site, the energy being focused through an intervening tissue. An apparatus for producing remote hemostasis comprises a focused therapeutic ultrasound radiating surface and a sensor for identifying a site of internal bleeding, with a registration means coupled to the radiating surface and the sensor to bring a focal target and the bleeding site into alignment. The sensor generally comprises a Doppler imaging display. Hemostasis enhancing agents may be introduced to the site for actuation by the ultrasound energy.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for the remote coagulation of blood using high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) are provided. A remote hemostasis method comprises identifying a site of internal bleeding and focusing therapeutic ultrasound energy on the site, the energy being focused through an intervening tissue. An apparatus for producing remote hemostasis comprises a focused therapeutic ultrasound radiating surface and a sensor for identifying a site of internal bleeding, with a registration means coupled to the radiating surface and the sensor to bring a focal target and the bleeding site into alignment. The sensor generally comprises a Doppler imaging display. Hemostasis enhancing agents may be introduced to the site for actuation by the ultrasound energy.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for the remote coagulation of blood using high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) are provided. A remote hemostasis method comprises identifying a site of internal bleeding and focusing therapeutic ultrasound energy on the site, the energy being focused through an intervening tissue. An apparatus for producing remote hemostasis comprises a focused therapeutic ultrasound radiating surface and a sensor for identifying a site of internal bleeding, with a registration means coupled to the radiating surface and the sensor top bring a focal target and the bleeding site into alignment. The sensor generally comprises a Doppler imaging display. Hemostasis enhancing agents may be introduced to the site for actuation by the ultrasound energy.

Abstract: A High Intensity Focused Ultrasound system is provided for treatment of focal disease. The preferred embodiment includes an intracavity probe having two active ultrasound radiating surfaces with different focal geometries. Selectively energizing the first surface focuses therapeutic energy a first distance from the housing, energizing the second surface focuses therapeutic energy nearer the housing. Preferably, the probe includes a thin, flexible, inelastic membrane which is rigidized with pressure to allow blunt manipulation of tissue. Methods of use of the probe are also provided, particularly for treatment of diseases of the prostate.

Abstract: A bendable ultrasonic probe useful in endosurgical operations is provided having a therapy channel with a shape that is substantially unaffected by bending of the probe. The probe can be used to convey substantially nonbendable tools to the vicinity of an ultrasonic device that has been repositioned by bending the probe. A sheath is provided having a rigid, self-supporting body portion that may be used with the bendable ultrasonic probe. The sheath may have a therapy channel for conveying surgical tools. Also, the sheath may have a flexible balloon on one end for accommodating the bendable portion of the probe, which is disposed in the flexible balloon.

Abstract: An articulated ultrasonic probe for endoscopic examination comprises a transducer head, for example, having one or more rows of independently actuable transducer elements extending along the surface of the probe, parallel to the axis thereof. The probe comprises an articulable section while the transducer head is journaled for rotation with respect to the tip of the probe. In use the tip of the probe is juxtaposed to a structure to be examined; the articulated section of the probe and the rotation of the transducer are controlled separately, such that the transducer elements can be juxtaposed to the structure to be examined. A series of angularly-spaced images may be formed by rotation of the transducer about its axis after articulation of the probe.