System and method for precisely identifying a configuration of an anatomical space in real time

Abstract

A method of identifying a configuration of an anatomical space within a patient in real-time for the precise performance of a procedure at a site of medical interest associated with the anatomical space, wherein a catheter containing an external, inflatable imaging bladder is introduced into the patient until the image bladder is generally aligned with the site of medical interest, an imaging probe of an imaging device is operatively positioned relative to the site of medical interest and is activated so as to obtain a real-time image of the site of medical interest, the imaging bladder being filled when needed to essentially turn on and define a visible and discernable interface between the interior of the imaging bladder and a boundary of the anatomical space. Preferably, the method is employed utilizing an identification system that includes a catheter having an imaging bladder disposed in spaced relation from the tip of the catheter and structured to be filled with a fluid such as air through an inflation conduit so that the imaging bladder contacts the patient and defines a visible interface at a boundary therebetween that is visible utilizing an imaging device.

Description

CLAIM OF PRIORITY [0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part application of previously filed, now pending application having Ser. No. 10 / 439,271, filed on May 15, 2003, which claims priority to now expired provisional patent application having Ser. No. 60 / 469,213 and a filing date of May 10, 2003.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention relates to a method of identifying a configuration of an anatomical space within a patient so as to significantly facilitate the performance of a diagnostic, treatment or other procedure at a site of medical interest associated with the anatomical space being identified. For example, one such anatomical space may be a patient's urethral anatomic course, the accurate identification of a location and boundaries of that course being especially suited for accurately locating a brachytherapy or cryoablation treatment element into a patient's prostate in a manner that allows a practitioner to a...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

Enables precise identification and visualization of the urethral boundary during procedures, reducing urethral toxicity and complications by providing a standardized, on-demand imaging system that enhances the accuracy of treatment element placement within the prostate.

Problems solved by technology

Prostate cancer is potentially aggressive and is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among men in the United States.

However, in many circumstances surgery for the removal of a prostate may not be desirable for a variety of reasons.

Among these are the post operative risks of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, and co-morbid medical conditions which may increase a patient's morbidity and / or intra-operative mortality.

In this regard, the one or more radioactive seeds can directly and / or locally treat a malignant tumor, often ultimately destroying the tumor, with limited effects to the rest of the patient's body.

Unfortunately, while such techniques are generally effective for viewing the exterior shape and location of the walnut sized prostate; due to the inherent physical nature of the prostate and its circumferential orientation around the proximal urethra, practitioners typically cannot obtain any meaningful, sustained, and standardized imaging of the urethra, and more specifically the anatomic course of the prostatic urethra.

Such techniques, however, cannot be readily controlled into a standardized and manageable on and off position, and generally provide merely a temporary, variable glimpse of the urethra, if any.

Although such practices had been traditionally accepted, more recent studies in brachytherapy have concluded that positioning of a treatment element in substantially close proximity to the urethra, such that the urethra is exposed to higher radiation doses, can correlate with urethral toxicity.

Therefore, determining the precise location for the placement of the treatments element, such as radioactive seeds, relative to the urethra, can impact the nature, location, and quantity of treatment to be employed.

As indicated, however, presently available systems and methods do not permit for the effective viewing and / or distinguishing of the urethra relative to the prostate so as to substantially aid in treatment, and no identification systems and / or techniques which provide for a clearly visible, on demand on / off, and standardized visualization are known to be implemented.

Images