Gynecological ablation system with insufflation assisted imaging

Abstract

A method for treating pelvic tumors, such as uterine leiomyomata, includes inserting an ablation apparatus into a pelvic region and positioning the ablation apparatus either proximate or into a pelvic tumor. The method further includes using a laparoscope and an imaging device, such as an ultrasound machine, to confirm the location of the pelvic tumor and placement of the ablation apparatus. Various ablation apparatuses may be used, including those with multiple needles or deployable arms that are inserted into the pelvic tumor and those without arms. The method further includes delivering electromagnetic energy or other energy through the ablation apparatus to the pelvic tumor to ablate the tumor. A surgical system for ablating pelvic tumors is also provided.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to a procedure and system for treating gynecological disorders. More particularly, the present invention relates to the treatment of pelvic tumors. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Benign and malignant tumors can occur in the pelvis. For example, uterine leiomyomata, are muscle cell tumors that occur in 77% of women in the reproductive years. Although uterine leiomyomata rarely (0.1%) progress to cancer, these tumors can cause excessive menstrual bleeding, irregular bleeding, pregnancy loss, infertility, frequency, and pelvic pressure or pain with sexual activity, menses, or daily activities. Women with uterine leiomyomata frequently incur surgical procedures (e.g., hysterectomy, dilatation and curettage, myomectomy, and hysteroscopy), medical and hormonal therapies, office visits, and a variety of radiologic procedures (e.g., ultrasounds, CAT scans, and MRIs), in an effort to treat these tumors. Uterine leiomyomata accou...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention is an innovative procedure that uses electromagnetic energy to effectively ablate pelvic tumors. It is a quick recovery time, safe, and well-accepted by patients. The invention provides a practical and efficient way to achieve uterine conservation on an out-patient basis. The method involves inserting an ablation device into a pelvic region and positioning it proximate the pelvic tumor, using a laparoscope and imaging device to confirm placement. The ablation device may have no arms, deployable arms, or separate needles. The method further includes delivering energy through the ablation device to the pelvic tumor to ablate it. The invention is versatile, cost-effective, and provides a better alternative to other conservative therapies. The surgical system for treating pelvic tumors includes an ablation device, energy source, laparoscope, and imaging device. The procedure may be performed laparoscopy, percutaneously, or hysteroscopically. The technical effects of the invention include quick recovery time, safe, effective treatment of pelvic tumors, and a better alternative to other conservative therapies."

Problems solved by technology

Although uterine leiomyomata rarely (0.1%) progress to cancer, these tumors can cause excessive menstrual bleeding, irregular bleeding, pregnancy loss, infertility, frequency, and pelvic pressure or pain with sexual activity, menses, or daily activities.

These methods necessarily destroy normal overlying tissue in order to treat the underlying tumor.

As a result the integrity of the uterus is compromised, and harmful scar tissue (e.g., adhesions) may occur.

Images