Method and apparatus for light-activated drug therapy

Abstract

A prostate treatment system having a light delivery device positionable in a transurethral device for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The light delivery device includes light generator, such as light emitting diodes (LED), laser diodes (LDs) or a diffusion quartz fiber tip connected to a light generator or a light emitting polymer which produces light at a selected wavelength or waveband or alternative sources of suitable light energy. The treatment device may further include a temperature monitoring system for monitoring the temperature at the treatment site. A light-activated drug is administered to the treatment site prior to light activation. The light-activated drug therapy induces cell death of the target tissue. The device provides a minimally invasive transurethral method for treatment of BPH or prostate cancer.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The present invention relates generally to a prostate treatment system for treating prostatic tissue in combination with a photoactive agent, and more specifically a transurethral device in combination with a light-activated drug for use in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).[0003]2. Description of the Related Art[0004]Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer are common conditions in the older male population. For people with BPH, the enlarged prostate can compress the urethra causing obstruction of the urine pathway, which results in difficulty urinating. The enlarged prostate can also cause urethral stones, inflammation, infection and in some instances, kidney failure.[0005]Major treatment methods for BPH include surgical treatment such as a prostatectomy or transurethral resection of the prostate. These treatments require the patient to be hospitalized, which can be a financial burden to the pa...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0016]In additional embodiments, the light emitting region of the treatment device is fixed in place in the elongated support member. In yet another embodiment, the light emitting region of the light delivery device is movable within or along the elongated support member. For example, at the end of the treatment the light delivery device may be removed and the elongated support member left in place to act as a urine drain. The treatment device may further include printed markings or indicia on the catheter to aid in placement of the light bar within the catheter.

[0017]In additional embodiments, the catheter has a selective coating to control where light transmits to the prostatic tissue thus directing the light activate drug therapy and reducing the potential to treat adjacent tissue.

[0018]According to still further embodiments, a Y-connection with a leakage control valve is included to allow the light delivery device to be inserted into the elongated support member through a separate lumen from a urine collection lumen. The elongated support member may include one or more lumens as needed to provide light transmission source manipulation and placement. In additional embodiments, the elongated support member may include a balloon to further aid in positioning the light delivery device proximate to the prostate using non-incision type methods. In addition

Problems solved by technology

For people with BPH, the enlarged prostate can compress the urethra causing obstruction of the urine pathway, which results in difficulty urinating.

The enlarged prostate can also cause urethral stones, inflammation, infection and in some instances, kidney failure.

These treatments require the patient to be hospitalized, which can be a financial burden to the patient.

Additionally, surgical procedures can result in significant side effects such as bleeding, infection, residual urethral obstruction or stricture, retrograde ejaculation, and/or incontin

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