Prostate visualization device and methods of use

Abstract

Methods and apparatus are provided for improved administration of brachytherapy in the treatment of prostate disease. More particularly, a prostate visualization device is provided comprising a catheter coupled to at least one deployable member at the distal end of the catheter. The deployable member is preferably manufactured from a shape memory alloy having a petal-shaped configuration suitable for engaging and defining the proximal region of a patient's bladder. The deployable member may comprise tubing filled with air or other radiopaque agents to facilitate ultrasonic imaging of the deployable members near the bladder / prostate junction.

Description

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 648,319, filed Aug. 25, 2000, and claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60 / 295,408, filed May 31, 2001, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] This invention relates to improved apparatus and methods for the treatment of prostate cancer. More particularly, the present invention provides a prostate visualization device having at least one deployable member suitable for imaging the bladder / prostate junction, and methods of use. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Excluding nonmelanoma skin cancers, prostate cancer is the most common cancer afflicting American men. The American Cancer Society estimates that over 180,00 new cases will be diagnosed in the U.S. in the year 2000 alone, and that nearly 32,000 people will die from the disease. Prostate cancer ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides methods and apparatus for bladder / prostate junction imaging that overcome drawbacks associated with previous methods. The invention provides reliable imaging of the bladder / prostate junction and can be used in conjunction with standard brachytherapy apparatus. The invention includes a catheter with at least one distally deployable member that engages and defines the proximal region of the bladder. The deployable member is preferably constructed from a shape memory material that forms a petal-shaped configuration upon deployment. The deployable member is deployed within the patient's bladder, and may be retracted proximally to conform to the proximal wall of a patient's bladder. Gas pockets may be provided around the deployable member to enhance visibility with an ultrasound probe. Additionally, echo-contrast agent may be injected to the region to facilitate reliable imaging. The invention also includes methods of using the present invention."

Problems solved by technology

The procedure is lengthy, especially if a lymph node dissection is simultaneously performed, and requires a hospital stay of 2-5 days.

Possible complications include impotence and urinary incontinence.

Although, when performed correctly, brachytherapy may provide several benefits when compared to prostate removal and other techniques, current apparatus and methods for delivering the seeds to target locations within the prostate are somewhat crude and are subject to practitioner error.

However, while Crowley may provide improved imaging, the device is mechanically and electrically complex, and is therefore costly.

The device described in that patent, however, does not improve on current junction imaging techniques.

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