Devices and Methods for Using Controlled Bubble Cloud Cavitation in Fractionating Urinary Stones

Abstract

A medical imaging and therapy device is provided that may include any of a number of features. One feature of the device is that it can deliver Lithotripsy therapy to a patient, so as to fractionate urinary stones. Another feature of the device is that it can deliver Histotripsy therapy to a patient, so as to erode urinary stones. In some embodiments, the medical imaging and therapy device is configured to target and track urinary stones in the patient during therapy. Methods associated with use of the medical imaging and therapy device are also covered.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12 / 868,775, filed Aug. 26, 2010, which application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. 119 of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 237,011, filed Aug. 26, 2009, titled “Devices and Methods for Using Controlled Bubble Cloud Cavitation in Fractionating Kidney Stones”. These applications are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE[0002]All publications, including patents and patent applications, mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual publication was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0003]The present invention generally relates to ultrasound treatment of urinary stones. More specifically, the present invention relates to using a combination of Lithotripsy and Histotripsy to f...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The system effectively breaks down stones into small, smooth fragments for easy passage and reduces collateral tissue damage by using Histotripsy to erode Lithotripsy fragments, enhancing the stone-free rate and minimizing post-treatment discomfort.

Problems solved by technology

Small changes in any of the parameters can result in discontinuation of the ongoing process.

The reduced efficiency is likely due to the increased number of mm size bubbles blocking the shock waves and other energy from reaching the stone.

For this reason, treatment success rates were high without the need for precise image guidance, yet substantial damage to the kidney tissue within the large focal volume also occurred.

By virtue of the smaller focus, the newer generation Lithotripters have reduced collateral tissue damage, but at the expense of success rates.

Although ureteroscopy is an outpatient procedure, patients often suffer with pain and discomfort from a ureteral stent for 4-7 days after treatment.

Disadvantages of Lithotripsy include a stone free rate of ˜65% percent 4 weeks after treatment (compared with 90-95% stone free rate in patients having percutaneous and ureteroscopic procedures) and the necessity and occasionally discomfort of passing stone fragments following treatment.

Furthermore, urinary stones fragmented using shockwave Lithotripsy can remain up to several mm in size and include sharp or jagged edges that make them difficult and painful to pass through the urinary tract.

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