Abstract: An implantable applicator (10) has at least one guide channel (12) for guiding a radioactive seed or source (66) to a target region. A plurality of imageable fiducials (40) are configured for attachment to the patient adjacent the target region. Electromagnetic sensors (18, 20, 22, 20?, 42) are mounted to the applicator and the imageable fiducials. An electromagnetic tracking system determines the relative position of the applicator mounted sensors (18, 20, 22, 20?) and the fiducial mounted sensors (42). A localizing processor (52) generates a map of the sensors which is combined (56) with a high resolution image (46). A comparing processor (70) monitors for changes in sensor positions, generates a movement correction transform (72) which transforms (74) the planning image into a transformed planning image (76).

Abstract: A modular applicator for enabling a brachytherapy treatment comprising a central element and one or more of peripheral elements, wherein the central element is adapted with a fixation mechanism having a core for affixing the said peripheral elements thereto, wherein the fixation mechanism prevents a rotational displacement of the peripheral elements attached to the core of the fixation element with respect to the central element.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a modular applicator for enabling a brachytherapy treatment, comprising a central core and an outer sleeve, wherein the central core is adapted with a fixation mechanism for affixing the outer sleeve to the central core, wherein the outer sleeve is manufactured from a substantially rigid or shapeable material.

Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure relate to a method for reconstructing a spatial position of a conduit arranged to accommodate a radiotherapeutic radioactive source. The method includes displacing an object emitting radiation inside the conduit prior to the administration of a treatment, detecting said radiation using detectors; generating data upon detecting the said radiation using a processor; and reconstructing the spatial position of the conduit by the processor based on the said data to identify a delivery path of the treatment.

Abstract: A needle holder device for treating the prostate, involving a series of steps of inserting a needle into the prostate, has a rectal probe for ultrasonic 3D imaging and a computer for processing the image acquired by the probe and for computing the position of the needle relative to the prostate. The computer is controlled so as to periodically output information on the movement of the prostate after each of the insertion steps in order to validate the insertion parameters relative to a treatment schedule and, if need be, modifying the insertion parameters relative to the schedule in the event the movement is greater than a threshold value.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for delivering a therapeutic agent to a treatment region in the body are disclosed. By determining a treatment region in the body, reducing the volume of the treatment region to create a target region by using one or more flow control elements and delivering at least one therapeutic agent to the target region, improved treatment may be achieved.

Abstract: Balloon catheter, applicator, particularly for invasive radiotherapy, and method of controlling the balloon catheter with respect to its shape and position in a tissue to be treated prior to an irradiation. The balloon catheter provides a catheter shaft for introducing a probe, an outer balloon and an inner balloon, disposed inside the outer balloon, the inner space of the inner balloon connecting to a channel for connection to a media inlet and intermediate space between the outer balloon and the inner balloon connecting to a channel for connection to a media storage unit. In order that the balloon catheter can be securely controlled with respect to its shape and position in a patient in a simple but clear manner prior to irradiation, the outer balloon is formed of a flexible, non-extendible material and the inner balloon is formed of a flexible, extendible material.

Abstract: A system for treating a lesion site of a patient is disclosed. The system includes a cannula having a lumen, a conduit in communication with said lumen, an introducer stylet removably disposed within said cannula, a resecting device selectively insertable within said cannula, and an adjuvant treatment device selectively insertable within said cannula.

Abstract: A positioning device (1) for treating the inner walls of a resection cavity, which was created by surgically removing of at least a portion of a tumor in a living body, characterized by the fact that the material of the device (1), part(s) of the device and accessories of the device (1) is (are) biologically degradable in the living body. Further a surgical procedure for treating a tumor in a living body of at least one of the former claims, comprising: (a) surgically removing at least a portion of said tumor thereby creating a cavity in the living body's remaining tissue; (b) placing a biodegradable treatment device in said cavity so that the degradable device occupies said cavity; and (c) treating tissue surrounding said cavity by means of said positioning device.

Abstract: An eyelid plaque and a method of using the plaque to treat eye cancers. The eyelid plaque is placed on the eyelid such that it defines an enclosure within which the radiation source resides. The enclosure defines a radiation shield that reduces radiation entering other organs and structures proximate the cancer being treated.

Abstract: A brachytherapy device for the provision of brachytherapy is disclosed. The brachytherapy device has at least one source lumen located outside a movable surface of the device. The source lumen may be secured to the movable outer surface in a manner whereby relative movement of the source lumen relative to the movable outer surface is permitted. The brachytherapy device is inserted into a body cavity. After insertion, the movable surface is moved to position the at least one source lumen closer to the tissue boundary of the cavity. One or more sources of radiation are then placed within the at least one source lumen to provide a customizable treatment. Also disclosed are methods for providing brachytherapy via body cavities.

Abstract: A method for brachytherapy in a lumpectomy cavity of a breast including, positioning a distal end of a brachytherapy device within the cavity, expanding an expandable surface portion located between proximal and distal ends of the device within the cavity, the source lumen tubes defining a curved configuration within the cavity; and positioning a source of radiation sequentially within one or more source lumens of the source lumen tubes according to a brachytherapy treatment plan. The device includes an inner tube, and a plurality of source lumen tubes located around the inner tube and including distal ends secured together with the inner tube at the distal end disposed within the body cavity, the source lumen tubes comprising proximal portions sufficiently long to extend outside the breast.

Abstract: A heart monitoring system for a person includes one or more wireless nodes forming a wireless network; a wearable body sensor having a wireless transceiver adapted to communicate with the one or more wireless nodes.

Abstract: A method composition and system respond to ionizing, radiation to adjust biological activity. In some approaches the ionizing radiation is X-ray or extreme ultraviolet radiation that produces luminescent responses that induce biologically active responses.

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a brachytherapy includes at least one radiation means, at least one dose measuring means, and a processing unit. The at least one dose measuring means is configured to be introduced into a target area of an object under treatment which includes at least one target object and that is designed to measure radioactive radiation originating from the at least one radiation means, which is introduced into the target area of the object under treatment, and to provide the measured values by way of a means of transmission to the processing unit.

Abstract: An endorectal balloon having a pocket thereon for holding a sensor cable that can be used for radiation dosimetry or to detect motion of the prostate or balloon.

Abstract: The invention relates to an energy application apparatus for applying energy to an object, wherein the object (2) comprises a location (3) with radioactive material and wherein the energy application apparatus (1) comprises a location detection unit being usable for detecting the location with the radioactive material, and an x-ray unit for applying x-rays to the detected location of the object. Since the location, to which energy should be applied, comprises radioactive material, this location can be accurately detected by using the location detection unit. Moreover, since the application of the x-rays can be well controlled by controlling, for example, the intensity and the energy spectrum of the x-rays, energy can be accurately applied to the accurately detected location. The overall process of applying energy to the object can therefore be performed with increased accuracy.

Abstract: A method and device for image guided dynamic radiation treatment of prostate cancer and other pelvic lesions including: 1) a unique fan geometry of radiation sources; 2) a special collimation method and apparatus to sculpt the radiation borders; 3) an integrated three-dimensional imager and a special tissue interface imaging system to locate and track critical boundaries in real-time; 4) a dynamic patient support system, which is shared by the said imager and the irradiation system; and 5) motorized custom shielding filters to further protect neighboring normal tissues such as the kidneys and femoral heads. The fan geometry utilizes a plural number of radiation sources arranged specifically for irradiating tumors in the human pelvis while not harming critical structures, and the collimation sculpts the radiation borders using motorized shields for different sensitive structures.

Abstract: The disclosure describes devices and methods for asymmetrical irradiation at a body cavity or site, such as after removal of tissue, e.g. biopsy or cancer. One device includes a lumen which is off-set or off-settable from a longitudinal axis to increase the intensity of radiation received from a radiation source by a first tissue portion surrounding the body cavity and to reduce or minimize radiation received by a second tissue portion (e.g. healthy tissue) surrounding the body cavity.

Abstract: Medical methods and systems are provided for effecting lung volume reduction by selectively ablating segments of lung tissue.

Abstract: A radiation therapy apparatus includes a gantry having a central aperture that defines a cavity, in which a patient is positionable. The apparatus also includes a positioning device, with which the patient is positionable in the central aperture of the gantry, and a radiation head for generating therapeutic radiation. The apparatus includes an extension mechanism for the radiation head. The extension mechanism may be operated, such that in a first operating mode, the radiation head is disposable inside the gantry, such that the gantry has, on a side facing the positioning device, a front surface that constitutes a front limit of the radiation therapy apparatus toward the positioning device. In the first operating mode, the radiation head is behind the front surface viewed from the positioning device. In a second operating mode, the radiation head, viewed from the positioning device, may be moved out in front of the front surface.

Abstract: In brachytherapy where position information relating to a radiation source is to be generated, a guidance system is adapted to acquire and process position data or position and tissue data, so that high-precision interventional radiotherapy can be carried out, especially according to a dose plan and for intra-fraction monitoring for a therapy plan or adaptive re-planning. The data can be stored and used to refine future treatment plans and for future correlation with long-term treatment outcome, especially in context with low energy brachytherapy.

Abstract: Provided are multi-segmented inflatable brachytherapy devices. Also provided are systems and methods including multi-segmented inflatable brachytherapy devices.

Abstract: The invention is directed to Compounds of Formula (I). The invention provides compounds that inhibit, regulate, and/or modulate P13K that are useful in the treatment of hyperproliferative diseases, such as cancer.

Abstract: Methods and devices for delivering radiation to a target at a posterior portion of an eye using a brachytherapy-administering device adapted to be inserted into a suprachoroidal space of the eye including a brachytherapy source and a means of advancing the brachytherapy source from a storage position to a radiation position corresponding to a position in a distal portion of the device, positioning the device appropriately such that the distal portion of the device is in close proximity to the target, exposing the target to the brachytherapy source for a predetermined length of time then removing the device and closing incisions made during a surgical procedures to reach the suprachoroidal space of the eye.

Abstract: A method treating dementia of the Alzheimer's type in a patient by administering ionizing radiation to the brain of the patient.

Abstract: Apparatus for radiation therapy combines a patient table, an MRI and a radiation treatment apparatus mounted in a common treatment room with the MR magnet movable from a position outside a radiation shielded door to an imaging position. An RF-shielded door is movable between a position, separating part of the treatment apparatus from the magnet and an open position allowing access of the patient to the treatment apparatus. In one configuration there is a row of treatment rooms and the magnet is mounted to move along a passageway outside the row of radiation shielded doors of the rooms.

Abstract: An oxygen-producing device has a power supply with an electrically positive and an electrically negative output, at least one pair of electrodes, one electrode of the pair coupled to the electrically positive output and the other coupled to the electrically negative output, an oxygen-rich material exposed to the electrodes for producing oxygen in response to a voltage generated across the electrodes, and an envelope containing the power supply, the pair of electrodes and the oxygen rich material. The device operates within a human tumor, the envelope— comprises a gas-permeable membrane for releasing the produced oxygen into an environment outside of the envelope and the power supply is enabled to provide a DC voltage of at least 1.2 volts to the electrodes.

Abstract: A miniature X-ray tube for intravascular or intracorporeal radiation treatment in living beings is proposed. The X-ray tube comprises a cylindrical housing section with a longitudinal axis. The miniature X-ray tube also comprises a cylindrical or cylindrical-tube-shaped first field emission cathode arranged concentrically about the longitudinal axis in the housing with a plurality of carbon nanotubes which emit electrons radially outward. The miniature X-ray tube also comprises a second field emission cathode in the housing with a plurality of carbon nanotubes which emit electrons in the direction of longitudinal axis. The miniature X-ray tube only emits little heat and is robust against mechanical stresses.

Abstract: The present invention relates to aerosols containing magnetic particles, wherein the aerosols comprise magnetic particles and a pharmaceutical active agent. The invention furthermore relates to the use of such aerosols containing magnetic particles for directed magnetic field-guided transfer of the active agents contained therein in aerosol therapy.

Abstract: A method for brachytherapy in a lumpectomy cavity of a breast including, positioning a distal end of a brachytherapy device within the cavity, expanding an expandable surface portion located between proximal and distal ends of the device within the cavity, the source lumen tubes defining a curved configuration within the cavity; and positioning a source of radiation sequentially within one or more source lumens of the source lumen tubes according to a brachytherapy treatment plan. The device includes an inner tube, and a plurality of source lumen tubes located around the inner tube and including distal ends secured together with the inner tube at the distal end disposed within the body cavity, the source lumen tubes comprising proximal portions sufficiently long to extend outside the breast.

Abstract: A magazine for chain components of a chain with radiation sources comprises a housing as well as a first means for receiving chain components that is mounted in a pivotal manner in the housing and has recesses for receiving the chain components, a tension spring for driving the means for receiving the chain components, a sprocket being coupled in a pivotal manner to the means for receiving the chain components and being mounted in a pivotal position in the housing, and an ejector for ejection of the radiation sources. Furthermore, the magazine comprises an ejection lever which is mounted in a pivotal manner in the housing, whereby, in a first position, the ejection lever engages the sprocket, and in a second position it blocks the ejector.

Abstract: A method, composition and system respond to ionizing radiation to adjust biological activity. In some approaches the ionizing radiation is X-ray or extreme ultraviolet radiation that produces luminescent responses that induce biologically active responses.

Abstract: A device for administering brachytherapy to a patient includes a vessel that may be in the form of a hollow cylindrical cup, for fleshing into and substantially filling the open-ended cavity. The vessel has a closed outer end, which may be a removable cover, and a source guide penetrates the closed outer end so as to extend deep into the vessel, to receive a radiation source in the source guide. A manipulator can be connected to the radiation source, and also to the source guide, for allowing several different types of manipulation of the source orientation and position within the vessel during the brachytherapy procedure.

Abstract: A method for brachytherapy in a lumpectomy cavity of a breast including, positioning a distal end of a brachytherapy device within the cavity, expanding an expandable surface portion located between proximal and distal ends of the device within the cavity, the source lumen tubes defining a curved configuration within the cavity; and positioning a source of radiation sequentially within one or more source lumens of the source lumen tubes according to a brachytherapy treatment plan. The device includes an inner tube, and a plurality of source lumen tubes located around the inner tube and including distal ends secured together with the inner tube at the distal end disposed within the body cavity, the source lumen tubes comprising proximal portions sufficiently long to extend outside the breast.

Abstract: A method for the design, manufacturing, and use of a high-Z particle to enhance the effects of ionizing radiation. In particular, the use of a targeting molecule to enable cellular uptake by the target cells (tumor cells or endothelial cells proximate to the tumor) will enhance the dose effect.

Abstract: Apparatus for delivering brachytherapy to a target tissue region includes an elongate body including a proximal end, a distal end sized for introduction into a tissue tract and carrying a plurality of elongate members including pathways for receiving a source of radiation. The elongate members are movable between collapsed and expanded configurations. During use, a tract is created through tissue, and the elongate body carrying the elongate members is advanced through the tract into a target location with the elongate members in the collapsed configuration. The elongate members are directed to the expanded configuration at the target location, and radiation is delivered to treat tissue at the target location, e.g., by introducing one or more radiation sources along the pathways.

Abstract: A brachytherapy device is configured for use in a system having a fluid source. The brachytherapy device includes a balloon assembly including an inflation conduit coupled to a distensible portion. The inflation conduit is configured to facilitate passage of an inflation fluid received from the fluid source to the distensible portion. The distensible portion is configured to respond to the inflation fluid by expanding. The distensible portion has an outer surface with an oval profile. A treatment delivery shaft extends into a region within the distensible portion. The treatment delivery shaft is configured to deliver a treatment material to a location in the region.

Abstract: Methods of treating a malignant glioma in a subject are disclosed. The methods comprise administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of a viral vector comprising: (i) a first polynucleotide sequence encoding a Fas-chimera (Fas-c), said first polynucleotide sequence comprising SEQ ID NOs: 2 and 3; and (ii) a second polynucleotide sequence encoding an endothelial cell-specific promoter or a periendothelial cell-specific promoter.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods suitable for causing tissue ablation at a specified therapeutic site in the body of a patient. The apparatus comprises an ablation device having a distal end and a proximal end and a central lumen extending along its length, the distal end comprising at least one energy delivery element suitable for causing tissue ablation. A penetrating member having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end comprising a sharp tip suitable for piercing tissue and creating a channel for the device in the tissue, is coaxially positioned within the central lumen of the ablation device and is capable of being advanced distally out of the central lumen of the device and retracted back to within the central lumen of the device. The apparatus may further comprise an endoscope for delivery of the device to the site of treatment.

Abstract: Brachytherapy treatment of a patient's lung tissue following resection is effected using a balloon applicator which is inserted, normally through the same opening used for the surgery, through the chest wall and into the cavity. The lung and chest openings are closed around the applicator and generally sealed around the applicator. A suction port is provided, in a suction circuit of the applicator, to withdraw fluid from the pleural cavity, at intervals as needed, to assure that the lung can be inflated. Different embodiments of suction circuits are disclosed. A bronchial applicator and method are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a brachytherapy applicator device for insertion in a body cavity. The applicator device comprises an applicator shaped for insertion in the body cavity; the applicator comprising connectable segments; at least one connectable part having a form following wall surface shaped to follow the body cavity, the wall surface having a multichannel groove structure, so as to guide a plurality of catheters along the grooves in the groove structure along the wall surface.

Abstract: Brachytherapy treatment of a patient's lung tissue following resection is effected using a balloon applicator which is inserted, normally through the same opening used for the surgery, through the chest wall and into the cavity. The lung and chest openings are closed around the applicator and generally sealed around the applicator. A suction port is provided, in a suction circuit of the applicator, to withdraw fluid from the pleural cavity, at intervals as needed, to assure that the lung can be inflated. Different embodiments of suction circuits are disclosed. A bronchial applicator and method are also disclosed.

Abstract: A gynecological balloon apparatus has a first balloon and a second balloon disposed with a gynecological brachytherapy applicator. The first and second balloons are each movable between an inflated condition and a deflated condition. The first and second balloons may conform to a shape of a vaginal cavity when in their inflated conditions. A radiation detecting sensor and a motion detecting sensor may be positioned with the apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for automatic injection of a product, comprising: a body (3) housing a container, the container being movable relative to said body between an initial position, to an insertion position; a safety shield (26) movable with respect to said container and said body between an insertion position to a protection position, when the user removes the device from an injection site; an external socket (48) receiving the body and provided with selection means (53) which can be placed by a user: either in a first position, in which the body (3) and the external socket (48) are bound to each other, the safety shield extending beyond the distal end of both said body and said external socket in the protection position; or in a second position, in which the external socket (48) is able to move axially in the distal direction with respect to the body (3), both the safety shield and the external socket extending beyond the distal end of said body, in the protection position.

Abstract: A system for calculating a position of a radioactivity emitting source in a system-of-coordinates, the system comprising (a) a radioactive emission detector; (b) a position tracking system being connected to and/or communicating with the radioactive emission detector; and (c) a data processor being designed and configured for receiving data inputs from the position tracking system and from the radioactive emission detector and for calculating the position of the radioactivity emitting source in the system-of-coordinates.

Abstract: An applicator for delivering brachytherapy includes elongate members movable between collapsed and expanded configurations for delivering brachytherapy within a lumpectomy cavity, a vaginal cavity, or other target region. The elongate members may be expandable into a symmetrical or asymmetrical expanded configuration, e.g., into a generally spherical, pear-shaped, or planar configuration. A system for delivering brachytherapy includes the applicator and an access device for lining and/or dilating a body cavity and/or for receiving the applicator therein. The access device is advanced into a body cavity, an expandable member on the access device is inflated, the applicator is advanced into the access device, and the elongate members are expanded to deliver radiation to the target region.

Abstract: The disclosure describes a device for asymmetrical irradiation of a body cavity or site, such as after removal of tissue, e.g. biopsy or lumpectomy. The device includes an elongated tubular shaft having an inner lumen and a tubular wall with a plurality of lumens extending within the wall which are configured for receiving a radiation source. The distal portion of the tubular shaft is cut into a plurality of longitudinally separated wall segments with a lumen extending within at least one of the wall segments. A support member is positioned within the separated wall segments to support and position the wall segments in a desired configuration for brachytherapy. An expandable member such as an inflatable balloon is mounted on the distal shaft portion about the separated wall segments wall which when inflated secures the distal shaft portion within a desired intracorporeal site for brachytherapy treatment.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for tailoring the radiation intensity about a radiation source, enabling affected zones of a cancerous tissue mass to receive full radiation dosage while limiting the exposure of unaffected regions where radiation exposure is not desired. The assembly includes a radiation attenuator partially covering the outer periphery of a delivery portion of a high dosage radiation catheter, thereby altering the radiation profile that exits the assembly. A method for treating a cancer affected tissue mass includes inserting a plurality of said catheters into a tissue mass about the center of mass and orienting said catheter so that said the maximum radiation intensity is facing substantially toward the center of mass. The radiation source is allowed to dwell in the catheter for a prescribed period of time to deliver the desired dosage of radiation. The radiation source is then removed from the catheter.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an implant comprising at least two sheets of a biocompatible material, and at least one radioactive seed disposed between said sheets of material. The disclosure also relates to a method for treating a patient, comprising fixing to the tissue of the patient at least one implant comprising at least two sheets of a biocompatible material, and at least one radioactive seed disposed between said sheets of material.