Devices and systems for rectal tumor therapy

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a system for electroporation of a rectal cancer tumor. The system includes a linear probe, an electrical pulse generator, and a processing unit. The linear probe includes a fixture body and two electrodes, two electrode adjustment sets, and a camera mounted on the fixture body. The camera is utilized to capture images and / or videos from the rectal cancer tumor and the electrodes. The two electrodes are connected to the electrical pulse generator. The processing unit is connected to the electrical pulse generator and the camera. The processing unit performs a method, including adjusting location of the two electrodes at both sides of a portion or whole of the rectal cancer tumor by capturing images and / or videos utilizing the camera and generating an electric field between the two electrodes by applying a sequence of electric voltage pulses between the two electrodes utilizing the electrical pulse generator.

Description

DEVICES AND SYSTEMS FOR RECTAL TUMOR THERAPY TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to electroporation of cancer tumors, and particularly, to a probe and system comprising thereof for inserting into rectum and eliminating cancer tumors via applying a pulsed electric field. BACKGROUND

[0002] Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women worldwide with approximately 1.4 million new cases every year. Surgery, radiotherapy, and oncological treatment (chemotherapy and antineoplastic antibodies) are standard treatments of rectal cancer. Electrochemotherapy (ECT) has shown its effectiveness and suitability in deep solid tumors conducted in both preclinical and clinical studies. Electrochemotherapy is an emerging and effective treatment that utilizes the effect of electric pulses to ablate cancer cells and / or increase uptake of chemotherapy in cancer cells. However, electrochemotherapy has mostly been used in treatment of cutaneous and subcutaneous tumors as these are easily accessible for electrodes. Development of new electrodes has now made it possible to start investigations of electrochemotherapy to internal tumors as well.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need in the art for a device and system having appropriate electrodes and structurally features to access cancer tumors inside lumens and / or tubular- shaped organs inside a living body, such as rectum; thereby, providing a possibility of exact and targeted applying electric fields (e.g., pulsed electric fields) to such cancer tumors. SUMMARY

[0004] This summary is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of the present disclosure, and is not intended to identify essential elements or key elements of the subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to determine the scope of the claimed implementations. The proper scope of the present disclosure may be ascertained from the claims set forth below in view of the detailed description below and the drawings.

[0005] In one general aspect, the present disclosure describes a system for electroporation of a rectal cancer tumor. In an exemplary embodiment, the system may include a linear probe, an electrical pulse generator, and a processing unit. In an exemplary embodiment, the linear probemay be utilized to deliver electrical pulses to the rectal cancer tumor. In an exemplary embodiment, the linear probe may include two electrodes, a camera, a fixture body, two electrode adjustment sets, and a set of electrically conductive wires.

[0006] In an exemplary embodiment, the two electrodes may be utilized to encompass a portion or whole of the rectal cancer tumor there between and transfer electrical pulses thereto. In an exemplary embodiment, each electrode of the two electrodes may include a flat electrically conductive four-bladed structure with a central hole. In an exemplary embodiment, the camera may be utilized to capture an image and / or a video from the rectal cancer tumor and surrounding environment. In an exemplary embodiment, the two electrodes and the camera may be mounted on the fixture body. In an exemplary embodiment, the fixture body may include four guide shafts, a guide shaft holder, and a head covering the camera therein.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, each guide shaft of the four guide shafts may include an elongated beam with a distal end and a proximal end. In an exemplary embodiment, each guide shaft of the four guide shafts may pass through a free space between each two blades of each electrode. In an exemplary embodiment, the guide shaft holder may include a cylinder with a closed upper base and an open lower base. In an exemplary embodiment, the closed upper base may include four openings and a central hole. In an exemplary embodiment, each opening of the four openings may receive the proximal end of each guide shaft of the four guide shafts fixed at the opening.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, the head may be used to be inserted into the rectum. In an exemplary embodiment, the head may include a head body and a head cap. In an exemplary embodiment, the head body may include a cylinder encompassing the camera. In an exemplary embodiment, the cylinder may include a head base with four peripheral openings, a central hole, and an opening in the proximity of the central hole. In an exemplary embodiment, lens of the camera may be fixed inside the central hole. In an exemplary embodiment, the lens of the camera may be capable of monitoring location of the two electrodes and space there around. In an exemplary embodiment, each opening of the four openings of the head base may receive the distal end of each guide shaft of the four guide shafts fixed at the opening. In an exemplary embodiment, the head cap may be fixed on the head body. In an exemplary embodiment, the head cap may include a conical structure configured to facilitate insertion of the linear probe into rectum. In an exemplary embodiment, the head cap may be utilized to protect the camera.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, the two electrode adjustment sets may be utilized to adjust respective locations of the two electrodes and a distance between the two electrodes. In an exemplary embodiment, each electrode adjustment set of the two electrode adjustment sets may include an electrode carrier, an electrode end holder, and a pair of drive pipes mounted around two guide shafts of the four guide shafts. In an exemplary embodiment, the electrode carrier may include a first flat cylinder with four openings and a central hole. In an exemplary embodiment, each opening of the four openings of the first flat cylinder may receive one guide shaft of the four guide shafts passing therethrough. In an exemplary embodiment, one electrode of the two electrodes may be attached onto the electrode carrier. In an exemplary embodiment, the electrode end holder may include a second flat cylinder with four openings and a central hole. In an exemplary embodiment, each opening of the four openings of the second flat cylinder may receive one guide shaft of the four guide shafts passing therethrough. In an exemplary embodiment, the electrode end holder may be freely movable along the four guide shafts forward and / or backward. In an exemplary embodiment, each drive pipe may be mounted around a different guide shaft of the four guide shafts. In an exemplary embodiment, the pair of drive pipes may be attached to the electrode carrier and the electrode end holder. In an exemplary embodiment, the pair of drive pipes may transmit motion from the electrode end holder to the electrode carrier and the respective electrode along the two guide shafts mounted thereon forward and / or backward.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, the set of electrically conductive wires may include a pair of electrode wires and a camera wire. In an exemplary embodiment, each electrode wire may include a distal end and a proximal end. In an exemplary embodiment, the distal end of each electrode wire may be attached to the respective central hole of one electrode of the two electrodes. In an exemplary embodiment, the camera wire may include a distal end and a proximal end. In an exemplary embodiment, the distal end of the camera wire may be attached to the camera.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical pulse generator may be utilized to apply an electric field between the two electrodes. In an exemplary embodiment, each proximal end of the pair of electrode wires may be connected to a different pole of two poles of the electrical pulse generator.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, the processing unit may be connected to the electrical pulse generator and the camera. In an exemplary embodiment, the proximal end of the camerawire may be connected to the processing unit. In an exemplary embodiment, the processing unit may include a memory having processor-readable instructions stored therein and a processor utilized to access the memory and execute the processor-readable instructions. In an exemplary embodiment, the processor may perform a method by executing the processor- readable instructions. In an exemplary embodiment, the method may include adjusting a location of the two electrodes at both sides of the rectal cancer tumor by capturing one or more images and / or videos from space behind the head inside the fixture body utilizing the camera and generating an electric field between the two electrodes by applying at least one sequence of electric voltage pulses between the two electrodes utilizing the electrical pulse generator.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, capturing the one or more images and / or videos from the space behind the head inside the fixture body may include capturing one or more images and / or videos from a space within a distance in a range of 2 mm to 10 cm behind the head inside the fixture body.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, applying the at least one sequence of electric voltage pulses between the two electrodes may include applying at least one sequence of eight square- wave electric voltage pulses with a magnitude in a range of 400 V / cm to 1500 V / cm and a duration of 100 µs between the two electrodes.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, the method may further include capturing a set of images and / or videos from the rectal cancer tumor while applying the electric field between the two electrodes utilizing the camera and ceasing generating the electric field between the two electrodes if at least one image or video of the captured set of images and / or videos demonstrates a complete elimination of the rectal cancer tumor.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, a distance between the two electrodes is adjustable in a range of 0 cm to 10 cm by moving at least one electrode end holder of the two electrode adjustment sets forward or backward along the four guide shafts. In an exemplary embodiment, each electrode of the two electrodes may include a layer of a biocompatible electrically conductive material with a thickness in a range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, each guide shaft of the four guide shafts may include a bar with a diameter in a range of 1 mm to 5 mm and a length in a range of 10 cm to 40 cm. In an exemplary embodiment, each guide shaft of the four guide shafts may be made of medical grade stainless steel.

[0018] In an exemplary embodiment, each drive pipe of the pair of drive pipes may include a hollow cylinder with a length in a range of 5 cm to 20 cm. In an exemplary embodiment, the hollow cylinder may include an inner diameter in a range of 1 mm to 5 mm and an outer diameter in a range of 1 mm to 5 mm.

[0019] In an exemplary embodiment, each of the head, the guide shaft holder, the electrode carrier, and the electrode end holder may be made of a biocompatible electrically insulating material. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the head, the guide shaft holder, the electrode carrier, and the electrode end holder may be made of at least one of Polypyrrole, Polylactic acid (PLA), silicone rubber, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), Teflon, polyethylene, and combinations thereof.

[0020] In an exemplary embodiment, the linear probe may further include a handle to facilitate insertion of the linear probe into the rectum. In an exemplary embodiment, the guide shaft holder may be attached to the handle via one of a snap fit joint or a turn lock attachment. In an exemplary embodiment, the handle may include two openings. In an exemplary embodiment, the two openings may include a first opening including an inlet receiving the set of electrically conductive wires therein and a second opening including an outlet for the set of electrically conductive wires.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, the linear probe may include a hollow path therein. In an exemplary embodiment, the hollow path may include a path along the opening in the proximity of the central hole of the head base and the respective central holes of the two electrodes, the electrode carrier, the electrode end holder, the guide shaft holder, and the two openings of the handle. In an exemplary embodiment, the hollow path may receive the set of electrically conductive wires passing therethrough. In an exemplary embodiment, the proximal ends of the set of electrically conductive wires are protruded out from the outlet.

[0022] Other exemplary systems, methods, features and advantages of the implementations will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the implementations, and be protected by the claims herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The drawing figures depict one or more implementations in accord with the present teachings, by way of example only, not by way of limitation. In the figures, like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements.

[0024] FIG. 1A schematically shows an exemplary linear probe for electrical stimulation of an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen of an exemplary living body, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 1B schematically shows a side view of an exemplary linear probe for electrical stimulation of an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen of an exemplary living body, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 1C schematically shows an exploded view of an exemplary linear probe for electrical stimulation of an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen of a living body, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG.1D schematically shows adjustment mechanism of two exemplary electrodes and elements thereof, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 1E schematically shows adjustment mechanism of an exemplary electrode and elements thereof, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 2A schematically shows an exemplary electrode as an example of each of two exemplary electrodes, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 2B schematically shows an exemplary electrode coupled to an exemplary electrode carrier as an example of each of two exemplary electrode carriers, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG.2C schematically shows a front view of an exemplary electrode carrier, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 2D schematically shows attachment of an exemplary electrode wire to an exemplary electrode, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG.3A schematically shows an exemplary guide shaft holder, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 3B schematically shows another view of an exemplary guide shaft holder receiving exemplary proximal ends of exemplary guide shafts, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 3C schematically shows a top view of an exemplary closed upper base of an exemplary guide shaft holder, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 4A schematically shows an exemplary head, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG.4B schematically shows an exploded view of an exemplary head, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 4C schematically shows an exemplary head receiving exemplary distal ends of four exemplary guide shafts at four exemplary openings, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG.4D schematically shows a front view of an exemplary head base, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 5A schematically shows an exemplary electrode end holder, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 5B schematically shows a front view of an exemplary electrode end holder, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG.6 schematically shows an exemplary system for electrical stimulation of a cancer tumor in an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen of an exemplary living body, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG.7 shows an exemplary method for electrical stimulation of whole or portion of an exemplary cancer tumor inside an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen of an exemplary living body, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 8 shows a high-level functional block diagram of a computer system, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth by way of examples in order to provide a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings. However, itshould be apparent that the present teachings may be practiced without such details. In other instances, well known methods, procedures, components, and / or circuitry have been described at a relatively high-level, without detail, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the present teachings.

[0046] The following detailed description is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use the methods and devices disclosed in exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. For purposes of explanation, specific nomenclature is set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that these specific details are not required to practice the disclosed exemplary embodiments. Descriptions of specific exemplary embodiments are provided only as representative examples. Various modifications to the exemplary implementations will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations and applications without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown, but is to be accorded the widest possible scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0047] Herein, a linear probe and a system utilizing thereof is described for electrically stimulation of a portion or whole of a cancer tumor in a tubular-shaped organ of a living body. Particularly, an exemplary linear probe and system may be utilized for electroporation of a rectal cancer tumor. In an exemplary embodiment, the linear probe may be utilized to deliver electrical pulses to the rectal cancer tumor.

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary linear probe may include two electrodes, a camera, a fixture body, two electrode adjustment sets, and a set of electrically conductive wires. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary two electrodes may be utilized to encompass a portion or whole of an exemplary cancer tumor there between and transfer electrical pulses thereto. In an exemplary embodiment, a location of exemplary two electrodes and a distance there between may be adjusted using at least one of two electrode adjustment sets and an exemplary camera. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary two electrodes and an exemplary camera may be mounted on the fixture body. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary camera may be utilized to capture an image and / or a video from an exemplary location of exemplary two electrodes; thereby, an exemplary location may be adjusted using at least one of two electrode adjustment sets.

[0049] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary fixture body may include four guide shafts, a guide shaft holder, and a head covering the camera therein. In an exemplary embodiment, each guide shaft of exemplary four guide shafts may include an elongated beam extended from an exemplary guide shaft holder to an exemplary head. In an exemplary embodiment, each electrode adjustment set of the two electrode adjustment sets may include an electrode carrier, an electrode end holder, and a pair of drive pipes mounted around two different guide shafts of exemplary four guide shafts. In an exemplary embodiment, each electrode of exemplary two electrodes may be attached onto an exemplary electrode carrier. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary electrode carrier, an exemplary electrode end holder, and an exemplary pair of drive pipes may be coupled together so that a motion of an exemplary electrode end holder may be transmitted to an exemplary electrode carrier through an exemplary pair of drive pipes. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary electrode of two exemplary electrodes may be moved by moving an exemplary electrode end holder forward and / or backward along two respective guide shafts that an exemplary pair of drive pipes are mounted thereon.

[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary head may include a head body and a head cap. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary head body may encompass an exemplary camera. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary head body may include an opening where lens of an exemplary camera may be fixed there inside. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary lens of an exemplary camera may be capable of monitoring location of exemplary two electrodes and space there around.

[0051] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary system disclosed herein may include an exemplary linear probe, an electrical signal generator, and a processing unit. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary electrical signal generator may be utilized to apply an electric field between exemplary two electrodes. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary processing unit may be connected to an exemplary electrical signal generator and an exemplary camera. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary processing unit may include a memory having processor-readable instructions stored therein and a processor utilized to access an exemplary memory and execute exemplary processor-readable instructions. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary processor may perform a method by executing exemplary processor-readable instructions. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary method may include adjusting a location of exemplary two electrodes of exemplary linear probe at both sides of an exemplary cancer tumor by capturing one or more images and / or videos from space inside an exemplaryfixture body utilizing an exemplary camera and generating an electric field between exemplary two electrodes by applying an electric voltage between exemplary two electrodes utilizing an exemplary electrical signal generator. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary method may further include capturing a set of images and / or videos from an exemplary cancer tumor while applying an exemplary electric field between exemplary two electrodes utilizing an exemplary camera and ceasing generating an exemplary electric field between exemplary two electrodes if at least one image or video of an exemplary captured set of images and / or videos demonstrates a complete elimination of an exemplary cancer tumor.

[0052] FIG.1A schematically shows a linear probe 100 for electrical stimulation of a tubular organ or a lumen of a living body, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As used herein, an exemplary “tubular organ or a lumen” may refer to a part of an exemplary living body having a tubular structure, often with a long length, such as esophagus, intestine, colon, rectum, anus, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, linear probe 100 may be utilized to electrically stimulating a portion of least one of gastrointestinal system, esophagus, intestine, colon, rectum, anus, and combinations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, linear probe 100 may be utilized to electrically stimulating an internal cancer tumor located at an internal organ, where an exemplary internal organ may include an elongated organ. In an exemplary embodiment, linear probe 100 may be utilized to electrically stimulating a cancer tumor located in at least one of gastrointestinal system, esophagus, intestine, colon, rectum, anus, and combinations thereof. As used herein, an exemplary “electrical stimulation” may refer to a process of electrically stimulating of living biological cells, such as electrochemotherapy (ECT), electroporation, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, electrical stimulation may include electrically stimulation of biological cells, leading to changing membrane characteristics of exemplary biological cells; thereby, introducing desired molecules such as genetic material, proteins, drugs, etc. to exemplary biological cells. In an exemplary embodiment, electrical stimulation may include electrically stimulation of cancer cells, leading to at least one of ablation of exemplary cancer cells, destruction of exemplary cancer cells, changing membrane characteristics of exemplary cancer cells; thereby, introducing desired molecules such as drugs to exemplary cancer cells.

[0053] FIG.1B schematically shows a side view of linear probe 100 for electrical stimulation of a tubular organ or a lumen of a living body, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Furthermore, FIG. 1C schematically shows anexploded view of linear probe 100 for electrical stimulation of a tubular organ or a lumen of a living body, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIGs. 1A-1C, probe 100 may include two electrodes 102 and 104 and camera 106. In an exemplary embodiment, two electrodes 102 and 104 may be utilized to encompass a portion or whole of an exemplary cancer tumor, for example, a rectal cancer tumor. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary cancer tumor may be surrounded between two electrodes 102 and 104 and an electric field may be generated there by transferring and applying electrical signals between two electrodes 102 and 104. In an exemplary embodiment, electrical pulses may be transferred to two electrodes 102 and 104; thereby, leading to electroporating an exemplary cancer tumor and resulting in ablation of an exemplary cancer tumor.

[0054] In an exemplary embodiment, camera 106 may be utilized to capture an image and / or a video from an exemplary cancer tumor and surrounding environment. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary captured image and / or video may be utilized to adjust at least one of a location of parts of linear probe 100 inside an exemplary living body, a location of two electrodes 102 and 104 inside an exemplary living body, a distance between inside an exemplary living body, and combinations thereof.

[0055] FIG.2A schematically shows an electrode 200 as an example of each of two electrodes 102 and 104, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, electrode 200 may include a flat electrically conductive four-bladed structure with a central hole 204 therein. In an exemplary embodiment, electrode 200 may include four blades 202 with free spaces 206 from each other. In an exemplary embodiment, central hole 204 of electrode 200 may be located in the middle of electrode 200 around a central axis 101 of linear probe 100. In an exemplary embodiment, a thickness 208 of electrode 200 may be in a range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, thickness 208 of electrode 200 may be about 1 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, a distance 210 between each two blades 202 may be in a range of 5 mm to 8 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, distance 210 between each two blades 202 may be about 10 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, a diameter of central hole 204 may be in a range of 7 mm to 10 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, a diameter of central hole 204 may be about 10 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, electrode 200 may be made of a biocompatible electrically conductive material, for example, medical grade 304stainless steel. In an exemplary embodiment, electrode 200 may include a laser cut sheet of an exemplary biocompatible electrically conductive material.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, referring to FIGs.1A-1C, probe 100 may further include two electrode carriers 108 and 110. In an exemplary embodiment, two electrodes 102 and 104 may be mounted on electrode carriers 108 and 110, respectively. FIG.2B schematically shows electrode 200 coupled to an electrode carrier 201 as an example of each of two electrode carriers 108 and 110, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, electrode 200 may be attached or adhered on electrode carrier 201. In an exemplary embodiment, electrode carrier 201 may have a flat cylindrical structure with four openings 212 and a central hole 214. In an exemplary embodiment, central hole 214 of electrode carrier 201 may be along central hole 204 of electrode 200 around central axis 101 of linear probe 100. In an exemplary embodiment, four openings 212 may be along free spaces 206 of electrode 200.

[0057] In an exemplary embodiment, electrode carrier 201 may be made of a biocompatible electrically insulating material. In an exemplary embodiment, electrode carrier 201 may be made of at least one of Polypyrrole, Polylactic acid (PLA), silicone rubber, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), Teflon, polyethylene, and combinations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, electrode carrier 201 may have a thickness 215 in a range of 3 mm to 8 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, thickness 215 may be about 5 mm. FIG. 2C schematically shows a front view 220 of electrode carrier 201, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, each opening 212a of four openings 212 may have a diameter 218 in a range of 1 mm to 5 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, each opening of four openings 212 may have diameter 218 in a range of 3 mm to 5 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, central hole 214 may have a diameter 222 in a range of 10 mm to 20 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, central hole 214 may have diameter 222 of about 14 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, a diameter 224 of electrode carrier 201 may be in a range of 20 mm to 30 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, diameter 224 of electrode carrier 201 may be about 25 mm.

[0058] Referring back to FIG. 1C, probe 100 may further include a set of electrically conductive wires 120, 122, and 124. In an exemplary embodiment, set of electrically conductive wires 120, 122, and 124 may include a pair of electrode wires 122 and 124 attached to two electrodes 102 and 104, respectively and a camera wire 120 attached to camera 106. Inan exemplary embodiment, each electrode wire 122 (or 124) may include a distal end 122a (or 124a) and a proximal end 122b (or 124b). In an exemplary embodiment, distal end 122a (or 124a) may be attached to electrode 102 (or 104) and proximal end 122b (or 124b) may be attached to a pole of an electrical signal generator; allowing for generating an electric field between two electrodes 102 and 104 using an exemplary electrical signal generator. FIG. 2D schematically shows attachment of an electrode wire 216 to electrode 200, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, distal end 226 of electrode wire 216 (as an example of each of electrode wires 122 and 124) may be attached to an internal side 228 of central hole 204 of electrode 200.

[0059] Referring to FIGs. 1A-1C, probe 100 may further include a fixture body 118. In an exemplary embodiment, two electrodes 102 and 104 and camera 106 may be mounted on fixture body 118. In an exemplary embodiment, fixture body 118 may include four guide shafts 112, a guide shaft holder 114, and head 116. In an exemplary embodiment, each guide shaft 112 may include an elongated beam with a distal end 112a and a proximal end 112b as shown in FIG. 1C. In an exemplary embodiment, each guide shaft 112 may be fixed between guide shaft holder 114 and head 116 without moving. In an exemplary embodiment, distal end 112a may be fixed at head 116 and proximal end 112b may be fixed at guide shaft holder 114. In an exemplary embodiment, each guide shaft 112 may pass through one free space 206 between each two blades 202 of each electrode 200. In an exemplary embodiment, each opening 212 may receive one guide shaft 112 passing therethrough.

[0060] FIG. 3A schematically shows guide shaft holder 114, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, guide shaft holder 114 may include a cylinder 300 with a closed upper base 302 and an open lower base 304. In an exemplary embodiment, closed upper base 302 may include four openings 306 and a central hole 308. In an exemplary embodiment, guide shaft holder 114 may be made of a biocompatible electrically insulating material. In an exemplary embodiment, guide shaft holder 114 may be made of at least one of Polypyrrole, Polylactic acid (PLA), silicone rubber, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), Teflon, polyethylene, and combinations thereof.

[0061] FIG. 3B schematically shows another view of guide shaft holder 114 receiving proximal ends 112b of guide shafts 112, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, each opening 306 may receive oneproximal end 112b of each guide shaft 112 and proximal end 112b may be fixed at opening 306.

[0062] FIG.3C schematically shows a top view of closed upper base 302 of guide shaft holder 114, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, each opening 306 may have a diameter 310 in a range of 1 mm to 5 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, diameter 310 may be in a range of 2.4 mm to 5 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, diameter 310 may be about 2.6 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, central hole 308 may have a diameter 312 in a range of 2 mm to 8 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, diameter 310 may be about 5 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, cylinder 300 may have a diameter 314 in a range of 30 mm to 40 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, diameter 314 may be about 35 mm. In an exemplary embodiment with reference to FIG. 3A, cylinder 300 may have a height 309 in a range of 30 mm to 50 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, height 309 may be about 40 mm.

[0063] FIG. 4A schematically shows head 116, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIGs.1C and 4A, head 116 may include a head cap 116a and a head body 116b. In an exemplary embodiment, head 116 may cover camera 106 there inside. In an exemplary embodiment, head 116 may be a front part of linear probe 100 to be inserted into an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen of an exemplary living body. In an exemplary embodiment, head 116 may be inserted into rectum of an exemplary living body.

[0064] FIG. 4B schematically shows an exploded view of head 116, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIGs. 4A and 4B, head body 116b may include a cylindrical structure that may encompass camera 106. In an exemplary embodiment, head body 116b may include a head base 402 with four openings 404, a central hole 406, and an opening 408 in the proximity of central hole 406. Regarding FIG. 4B, lens of camera 106 may be placed and fixed inside central hole 406. In an exemplary embodiment, lens of camera 106 may be capable of monitoring a location of two electrodes 102 and 104 and surrounding environment inside an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen of an exemplary living body. In an exemplary embodiment, camera wire 120 (FIG.1C) may protrude out from head 116 through opening 408 in the proximity of central hole 406. In an exemplary embodiment, camera wire 120 may include a distal end 120a and a proximal end120b. In an exemplary embodiment, distal end 120a of camera wire 120 may be attached to camera 106 and may protrude out from opening 408.

[0065] In an exemplary embodiment, each opening 404 may receive each distal end 112a of each guide shaft 112. In an exemplary embodiment, each distal end 112a may be fixed at corresponding opening 404. FIG.4C schematically shows head 116 receiving distal ends 112a of four guide shafts 112 at four openings 404, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0066] In an exemplary embodiment, head 116 may be made of a biocompatible electrically insulating material. In an exemplary embodiment, head 116 may be made of at least one of Polypyrrole, Polylactic acid (PLA), silicone rubber, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), Teflon, polyethylene, and combinations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, a diameter 410 of head base 402 may be in a range of 20 mm to 30 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, diameter 410 of head base 402 may be about 25 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, a diameter 412 of head cap 116a may be in a range of 5 mm to 15 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, a diameter 412 of head cap 116a may be about 10 mm.

[0067] FIG. 4D schematically shows a front view 415 of head base 402, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, central hole 406 may have a diameter 414 in a range of 2 mm to 7 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, diameter 414 may be about 4 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, opening 408 may have a diameter 416 in a range of 2 mm to 7 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, diameter 416 may be about 4 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, each opening 404 may have a diameter 418 in a range of 1 mm to 5 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, diameter 418 may be in a range of about 2.4 mm to about 5 mm.

[0068] Regarding FIGs. 1A and 1C and additionally, FIGs. 4A-4C, head cap 116a may include a conical structure that may facilitate insertion of linear probe 100 into an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen (e.g., rectum) of an exemplary living body. In an exemplary embodiment, head cap 116a may be fixed on head body 116b. In an exemplary embodiment, head cap 116a may be utilized to protect camera 106 and camera wire 120 from possible damage.

[0069] Referring to FIGs. 1A-1C, probe 100 may further include electrode end holders 103 and 105 and four drive pipes 126. In an exemplary embodiment, electrode end holders 103 and 105, four drive pipes 126, and two electrode carriers 108 and 110 may form two electrodeadjustment sets and may be utilized to adjust locations of two electrodes 102 and 104. FIG.1D schematically shows adjustment mechanism of two electrodes 102 and 104 and elements thereof, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, four drive pipes 126 may transmit motion of electrode end holders 103 and 105 along four guide shafts 112 to two electrode carriers 108 and 110; allowing for sliding two electrodes 102 and 104 on four guide shafts 112 forward and / or backward. In an exemplary embodiment, motion of each electrode 102 (or 104) may be accomplished using a pair of four drive pipes 126 and one electrode end holder 103 (or 105).

[0070] In an exemplary embodiment, each electrode end holder 103 (or 105) may be attached to two drive pipes of four drive pipes 126 and exemplary two drive pipes may be attached to respective electrode carrier 108 (or 110). In an exemplary embodiment, electrode end holder 103 (or 105) may be freely movable along four guide shafts 112 forward and / or backward; thereby, resulting in moving exemplary attached two drive pipes of four drive pipes 126; leading to motion of respective electrode carrier 108 (or 110).

[0071] FIG. 1E schematically shows adjustment mechanism of exemplary electrode 102 and elements thereof, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary pair of drive pipes 126a and 126b of four drive pipes 126 may be mounted around two crosswise placed guide shafts 112c and 112d of four guide shafts 112 between electrode end holder 103 and electrode carrier 108. In an exemplary embodiment, pair of drive pipes 126a and 126b may be freely movable along two guide shafts 112c and 112d; thereby, leading to carrying electrode carrier 108 and respective electrode 102 along two guide shafts 112c and 112d forward and backward. In an exemplary embodiment, electrode carrier 108 may move forward and / or backward along central axis 101 by moving electrode end holder 103 in forward and / or backward direction.

[0072] In an exemplary embodiment, a distance 128 (FIG. 1D) between two electrodes 102 and 104 may be adjusted using at least one electrode adjustment set of exemplary two electrode adjustment sets. In an exemplary embodiment, distance 128 between two electrodes 102 and 104 may adjustable in a range of about 0 cm to about 10 cm by moving at least one electrode end holder 103 or 105 of two exemplary electrode adjustment sets forward or backward along four guide shafts 112. In an exemplary embodiment, distance 128 may be adjusted at a value so that an exemplary portion or whole of an exemplary cancer tumor (e.g., an exemplary rectal cancer tumor) may be confined between two electrodes 102 and 104.

[0073] In an exemplary embodiment, each guide shaft of four guide shafts 112 may include a bar made of a biocompatible material. In an exemplary embodiment, each guide shaft of four guide shafts 112 may include a bar made of medical grade stainless steel (e.g., medical grade 304 stainless steel). In an exemplary embodiment, each guide shaft of four guide shafts 112 may include a bar with a diameter in a range of 1 to 5 mm and a length in a range of 10 cm to 40 cm. In an exemplary embodiment, each guide shaft of four guide shafts 112 may include a bar with a diameter of about 2.5 mm and a length of about 30 cm.

[0074] In an exemplary embodiment, each drive pipe of four drive pipes 126 may include a hollow cylinder or a tube made of a biocompatible material. In an exemplary embodiment, each drive pipe of four drive pipes 126 may include an exemplary hollow cylinder or tube made of medical grade stainless steel (e.g., medical grade 304 stainless steel). In an exemplary embodiment, each drive pipe of four drive pipes 126 may have a length in a range of 5 cm to 20 cm. In an exemplary embodiment, each drive pipe of four drive pipes 126 may have a length of about 15 cm. In an exemplary embodiment, each drive pipe of four drive pipes 126 may have an inner diameter in a range of 1 mm to 5 mm and an outer diameter in a range of 1 mm to 5 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, each drive pipe of four drive pipes 126 may have an exemplary inner diameter of about 3 mm and an exemplary outer diameter of about 4 mm.

[0075] FIG.5A schematically shows an electrode end holder 500, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, electrode end holder 500 may be an example of each of electrode end holders 103 or 105. In an exemplary embodiment, electrode end holder 500 may include a flat cylinder 502 with four openings 504 and a central hole 506. In an exemplary embodiment, each opening 504 may receive one guide shaft (e.g., guide shaft 112c or 112d) of four guide shafts 112 passing therethrough.

[0076] FIG.5B schematically shows a front view 510 of electrode end holder 500, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, flat cylinder 502 may have a diameter 512 in a range of 20 mm to 30 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, diameter 512 may be about 25 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, central hole 506 may have a diameter 514 in a range of 5 mm to 15 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, diameter 514 may be about 10 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, opening 504 may have a diameter 516 in a range of 2 mm to 6 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, diameter 516 may be about 4 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, electrode end holder 500 may be made of a biocompatible electrically insulating material. In an exemplary embodiment, electrode endholder 500 may be made of at least one of Polypyrrole, Polylactic acid (PLA), silicone rubber, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), Teflon, polyethylene, and combinations thereof.

[0077] Referring to FIGs. 1A-1C, probe 100 may further include a handle 107. In an exemplary embodiment, handle 107 may include a two-part structure as shown in FIG.1C. In an exemplary embodiment, handle 107 may include two parts 107a and 107b. In an exemplary embodiment, handle 107 may include two openings 111 and 113 as shown in FIG. 1B. In an exemplary embodiment, two openings 111 and 113 may receive set of electrically conductive wires 120, 122, and 124 passing there through. In an exemplary embodiment, opening 111 may include an inlet for proximal ends 120b, 122b, and 124b. In an exemplary embodiment, proximal ends 120b, 122b, and 124b may enter into handle 107 through opening 111 and may exit from handle 107 through opening 113. In an exemplary embodiment, opening 113 may include an outlet for proximal ends 120b, 122b, and 124b. In an exemplary embodiment, proximal ends 120b, 122b, and 124b may pass through handle 107 and exit from opening 113; allowing for connecting camera 106 and two electrodes 102 and 104 to an electrical instrument, such as a processing unit, an exemplary electrical signal generator, etc.

[0078] In an exemplary embodiment, handle 107 may be utilized to facilitate insertion of linear probe 100 into an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen of an exemplary living body, such as rectum. In an exemplary embodiment, guide shaft holder 114 may be attached to handle 107. In an exemplary embodiment, guide shaft holder 114 may be attached to handle 107 via one of a snap fit joint or a turn lock attachment. In an exemplary embodiment, handle 107 may be made of a biocompatible electrically insulating material. In an exemplary embodiment, handle 107 may be made of at least one of Polypyrrole, Polylactic acid (PLA), silicone rubber, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), Teflon, polyethylene, and combinations thereof.

[0079] In an exemplary embodiment, linear probe 100 may include a hollow path therein. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary hollow path may include a path along opening 408 in the proximity of central hole 406 of head base 402 and respective central holes 204, 214, 506, and 308 of each electrode 200, each electrode carrier 201, each electrode end holder 500, guide shaft holder 114, and two openings 111 and 113 of handle 107. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary hollow path may be along central axis 101 of linear probe 100. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary hollow path may receive set of electricallyconductive wires 120, 122, and 124 passing therethrough. In an exemplary embodiment, proximal ends 120b, 122b, and 124b of set of electrically conductive wires 120, 122, and 124 may protrude out from opening 113 of handle 107.

[0080] In another general aspect of the present disclosure, a system may be disclosed for electrical stimulation of a target cancer tumor in a living body. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary system may be used for electrical stimulation of an exemplary target cancer tumor in an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen of an exemplary living body. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary system may be used for electroporation of a rectal cancer tumor. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary system may include linear probe 100. FIG. 6 schematically shows a system 600 for electrical stimulation of a cancer tumor in an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen of an exemplary living body, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, system 600 may include linear probe 100, an electrical signal generator 602, and a processing unit 604.

[0081] In an exemplary embodiment, electrical signal generator 602 may be electrically connected to two electrodes 102 and 104 of linear probe 100. In an exemplary embodiment, two electrodes 102 and 104 may be connected to two poles 606 and 608 of electrical signal generator 602 via electrically conductive lines 612 and 614. In an exemplary embodiment, proximal end 122b of electrode wire 122 coupled to electrode 102 may be connected to pole 606 and proximal end 124b of electrode wire 124 coupled to electrode 104 may be connected to pole 608. In an exemplary embodiment, electrical signal generator 602 may be utilized to generate an electric field between two electrodes 102 and 104 by applying an electrical signal between two electrodes 102 and 104. In an exemplary embodiment, electrical signal generator 602 may include an electrical pulse generator; allowing for generating a pulsed electric field between two electrodes 102 and 104.

[0082] In an exemplary embodiment, processing unit 604 may be electrically connected to electrical signal generator 602 and camera 106. In an exemplary embodiment, proximal end 120b of camera wire 120 may be connected to processing unit 604 via electrically conductive line 616. In an exemplary embodiment, processing unit 604 may be electrically connected to electrical signal generator 602 via a wireless connection or utilizing respective electrically conductive line 610.

[0083] In an exemplary embodiment, processing unit 604 may include a memory and a processor. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary memory may have processor-readable instructions stored therein and an exemplary processor may be capable of accessing an exemplary memory and execute exemplary processor-readable instructions. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary processor may perform a method when exemplary processor- readable instructions are executed by an exemplary processor. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary method may include one or more steps of a generally disclosed method herein for electrical stimulation of an exemplary cancer tumor in an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen of an exemplary living body utilizing linear probe 100 and system 600.

[0084] FIG. 7 shows a method 700 for electrical stimulation of whole or portion of a cancer tumor inside an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen of an exemplary living body, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, method 700 may include inserting linear probe 100 into an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen (step 702), placing two electrodes 102 and 104 of linear probe 100 on both sides of a portion or whole of an exemplary cancer tumor utilizing camera 106 (step 704), and electrically stimulating a plurality of cancer cells of an exemplary cancer tumor by generating an electric field between two electrodes 102 and 104 of linear probe 100 inside an exemplary portion or whole of cancer tumor (step 706). In an exemplary embodiment, method 700 may be carried out utilizing linear probe 100 and system 600 described herein above. So, method 700 may be described herein below in connection with FIGs.1-6.

[0085] In further detail with respect to step 702, linear probe 100 may be insert into an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen in the vicinity of an exemplary cancer tumor. In an exemplary embodiment, step 702 may include inserting head 116 of linear probe 100 inside an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen may include a portion of least one of gastrointestinal system, esophagus, intestine, colon, rectum, anus, and combinations thereof.

[0086] In further detail with respect to step 704, step 704 may include placing two electrodes 102 and 104 of linear probe 100 on both sides of an exemplary portion or whole of an exemplary cancer tumor inside an exemplary tubular organ or an exemplary lumen. In an exemplary embodiment, step 704 may include placing two electrodes 102 and 104 of linear probe 100 on both sides of an exemplary portion or whole of an exemplary cancer tumor by moving at least one of electrode end holder 103, electrode end holder 105, and combinationsthereof so that two electrodes 102 and 104 may be located at both sides of an exemplary portion or whole of an exemplary cancer tumor.

[0087] In an exemplary embodiment, step 704 may include adjusting a location of two electrodes 102 and 104 at both sides of an exemplary portion or whole of an exemplary cancer tumor. In an exemplary embodiment, adjusting an exemplary location of two electrodes 102 and 104 at both sides of an exemplary portion or whole of an exemplary cancer tumor may be carried out using camera 106. In an exemplary embodiment, adjusting an exemplary location of two electrodes 102 and 104 at both sides of an exemplary portion or whole of an exemplary cancer tumor may be done by capturing one or more images and / or videos from space behind head 116 inside fixture body 118 of linear probe 100. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary one or more captured images and / or videos may be monitored while moving at least one of electrode end holder 103, electrode end holder 105, and combinations thereof up to grasping an exemplary portion or whole of an exemplary cancer tumor between two electrodes 102 and 104. In an exemplary embodiment, a movement of at least one of electrode end holder 103, electrode end holder 105, and combinations thereof may actuate at least one of two electrodes 102 and 104 through moving at least two drive pipes of four drive pipes 126. In an exemplary embodiment, distance 128 between two electrodes 102 and 104 may be adjusted using exemplary one or more captured images and / or videos; allowing for locating an exemplary portion or whole of an exemplary cancer tumor between two electrodes 102 and 104. In an exemplary embodiment, capturing one or more images and / or videos from space behind head 116 inside fixture body 118 may include capturing one or more images and / or videos from a space within a distance in a range of 2 mm to 10 cm behind head 116 inside fixture body 118.

[0088] In further detail with respect to step 706, step 706 may include electrically stimulating a plurality of cancer cells of an exemplary cancer tumor by generating an electric field between two electrodes 102 and 104 of linear probe 100 inside an exemplary portion or whole of cancer tumor. In an exemplary embodiment, electrically stimulating an exemplary plurality of cancer cells (step 706) may include at least one of electrochemotherapy (EChT) of an exemplary plurality of cancer cells, electroporation of an exemplary plurality of cancer cells, and combinations thereof.

[0089] In an exemplary embodiment, electrically stimulating an exemplary plurality of cancer cells may include electrolyzing peripheral medium surrounding an exemplary plurality ofcancer cells within a set of pre-determined time steps. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary set of pre-determined time steps may include at least one of a set of equal time steps, a set of unequal time steps, and combinations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, each time step of an exemplary set of pre-determined time steps may include a time period in a range of about 1 minutes to about 3 minutes. In an exemplary embodiment, electrical signal generator 602 may include a DC voltage generator. In an exemplary embodiment, a DC voltage may be applied between two electrodes 102 and 104; thereby, resulting in electrolyzing peripheral medium surrounding an exemplary plurality of cancer cells.

[0090] In an exemplary embodiment, electrically stimulating an exemplary plurality of cancer cells (step 706) may include inducing electroporation to an exemplary plurality of cancer cells by generating a pulsed electric field between two electrodes 102 and 104 inside an exemplary portion or whole of an exemplary cancer tumor. In an exemplary embodiment, step 706 may include inducing electroporation to an exemplary plurality of cancer cells by generating an exemplary pulsed electric field between two electrodes 102 and 104 inside an exemplary cancer tumor via applying at least one sequence of electric voltage pulses between two electrodes 102 and 104 utilizing electrical signal generator 602. In an exemplary embodiment, electrical signal generator 602 may include an electrical pulse generator. In an exemplary embodiment, applying at least one sequence of electric voltage pulses between two electrodes 102 and 104 may include applying at least one sequence of eight square-wave electric voltage pulses with a magnitude in a range of about 500 V / cm to about 1500 V / cm and a duration of about 100 µs between two electrodes 102 and 104. In an exemplary embodiment, applying at least one sequence of electric voltage pulses between two electrodes 102 and 104 may include applying at least one sequence of eight square-wave electric voltage pulses with a magnitude of about 1000 V / cm and a duration of about 100 µs between two electrodes 102 and 104.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 7, method 700 may further include step 708 of capturing a set of images and / or videos from an exemplary cancer tumor while generating an exemplary electric field between two electrodes 102 and 104 utilizing camera 106 and step 710 of ceasing generating an exemplary electric field between two electrodes102 and 104 if at least one image or video of an exemplary captured set of images and / or videos demonstrates a complete elimination of an exemplary cancer tumor.

[0092] FIG.8 shows an example computer system 800 in which an embodiment of the present invention, or portions thereof, may be implemented as computer-readable code, consistent withexemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, processes described hereinabove associated with system 600 and / or one or more steps of method 700 described herein below may be implemented in computer system 800 using hardware, software, firmware, tangible computer readable media having instructions stored thereon, or a combination thereof and may be implemented in one or more computer systems or other processing systems. Hardware, software, or any combination of such may embody any of the modules and components in FIGs.1-7.

[0093] If programmable logic is used, such logic may execute on a commercially available processing platform or a special purpose device. One ordinary skill in the art may appreciate that an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter can be practiced with various computer system configurations, including multi-core multiprocessor systems, minicomputers, mainframe computers, computers linked or clustered with distributed functions, as well as pervasive or miniature computers that may be embedded into virtually any device.

[0094] For instance, a computing device having at least one processor device and a memory may be used to implement the above-described embodiments. A processor device may be a single processor, a plurality of processors, or combinations thereof. Processor devices may have one or more processor “cores.”

[0095] An embodiment of the invention is described in terms of this example computer system 500. After reading this description, it will become apparent to a person skilled in the relevant art how to implement the invention using other computer systems and / or computer architectures. Although operations may be described as a sequential process, some of the operations may in fact be performed in parallel, concurrently, and / or in a distributed environment, and with program code stored locally or remotely for access by single or multi- processor machines. In addition, in some embodiments the order of operations may be rearranged without departing from the spirit of the disclosed subject matter.

[0096] Processor device 804 may be a special purpose or a general-purpose processor device. As will be appreciated by persons skilled in the relevant art, processor device 804 may also be a single processor in a multi-core / multiprocessor system, such system operating alone, or in a cluster of computing devices operating in a cluster or server farm. Processor device 804 may be connected to a communication infrastructure 806, for example, a bus, message queue, network, or multi-core message-passing scheme.

[0097] In an exemplary embodiment, computer system 800 may include a display interface 802, for example a video connector, to transfer data to a display unit 830, for example, a monitor. Computer system 800 may also include a main memory 808, for example, random access memory (RAM), and may also include a secondary memory 810. Secondary memory 810 may include, for example, a hard disk drive 812, and a removable storage drive 814. Removable storage drive 814 may include a floppy disk drive, a magnetic tape drive, an optical disk drive, a flash memory, or the like. Removable storage drive 814 may read from and / or write to a removable storage unit 818 in a well-known manner. Removable storage unit 818 may include a floppy disk, a magnetic tape, an optical disk, etc., which may be read by and written to by removable storage drive 814. As will be appreciated by persons skilled in the relevant art, removable storage unit 818 may include a computer usable storage medium having stored therein computer software and / or data.

[0098] In alternative implementations, secondary memory 810 may include other similar means for allowing computer programs or other instructions to be loaded into computer system 800. Such means may include, for example, a removable storage unit 822 and an interface 820. Examples of such means may include a program cartridge and cartridge interface (such as that found in video game devices), a removable memory chip (such as an EPROM, or PROM) and associated socket, and other removable storage units 822 and interfaces 820 which allow software and data to be transferred from removable storage unit 822 to computer system 800.

[0099] Computer system 800 may also include a communications interface 824. Communications interface 824 allows software and data to be transferred between computer system 800 and external devices. Communications interface 824 may include a modem, a network interface (such as an Ethernet card), a communications port, a PCMCIA slot and card, or the like. Software and data transferred via communications interface 824 may be in the form of signals, which may be electronic, electromagnetic, optical, or other signals capable of being received by communications interface 824. These signals may be provided to communications interface 824 via a communications path 826. Communications path 826 carries signals and may be implemented using wire or cable, fiber optics, a phone line, a cellular phone link, an RF link or other communications channels.

[0100] In this document, the terms “computer program medium” and “computer usable medium” are used to generally refer to media such as removable storage unit 818, removable storage unit 822, and a hard disk installed in hard disk drive 812. Computer program mediumand computer usable medium may also refer to memories, such as main memory 508 and secondary memory 810, which may be memory semiconductors (e.g. DRAMs, etc.).

[0101] Computer programs (also called computer control logic) are stored in main memory 808 and / or secondary memory 810. Computer programs may also be received via communications interface 824. Such computer programs, when executed, enable computer system 800 to implement different embodiments of the present disclosure as discussed herein. In particular, the computer programs, when executed, enable processor device 804 to implement the processes of the present disclosure, such as the operations described herein above in connection with system 600 and / or operations in method 700 described herein below illustrated by FIGs. 1-7 discussed above. Accordingly, such computer programs represent controllers of computer system 800. Where an exemplary embodiment of method 700 is implemented using software, the software may be stored in a computer program product and loaded into computer system 800 using removable storage drive 814, interface 820, and hard disk drive 812, or communications interface 824.

[0102] Embodiments of the present disclosure also may be directed to computer program products including software stored on any computer useable medium. Such software, when executed in one or more data processing device, causes a data processing device to operate as described herein. An embodiment of the present disclosure may employ any computer useable or readable medium. Examples of computer useable mediums include, but are not limited to, primary storage devices (e.g., any type of random access memory), secondary storage devices (e.g., hard drives, floppy disks, CD ROMS, ZIP disks, tapes, magnetic storage devices, and optical storage devices, MEMS, nanotechnological storage device, etc.).

[0103] The embodiments have been described above with the aid of functional building blocks illustrating the implementation of specified functions and relationships thereof. The boundaries of these functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternate boundaries can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships thereof are appropriately performed. Industrial Applicability

[0104] An exemplary device and system disclosed herein may provide an exact and simple accessibility to a cancer tumor inside a tubular-shaped organ, such as rectum and elimination thereof. An exemplary device and system may be used to complete destruction ofan exemplary cancer tumor via a fast method disclosed herein without causing any side effects. An exemplary linear probe disclosed herein includes a structure and electrodes with a cylindrical shape being adaptable with an exemplary tubular-shaped organ and covering whole internal surface of an exemplary tubular-shaped organ. An exemplary device and system may be used for elimination of cancer tumors via a non-invasive method and without any needs for complementary diagnosis techniques, such as colonoscopy and / or endoscopy.

[0105] While the foregoing has described what may be considered to be the best mode and / or other examples, it is understood that various modifications may be made therein and that the subject matter disclosed herein may be implemented in various forms and examples, and that the teachings may be applied in numerous applications, only some of which have been described herein. It is intended by the following claims to claim any and all applications, modifications and variations that fall within the true scope of the present teachings.

[0106] Unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, magnitudes, sizes, and other specifications that are set forth in this specification, including in the claims that follow, are approximate, not exact. They are intended to have a reasonable range that is consistent with the functions to which they relate and with what is customary in the art to which they pertain.

[0107] The scope of protection is limited solely by the claims that now follow. That scope is intended and should be interpreted to be as broad as is consistent with the ordinary meaning of the language that is used in the claims when interpreted in light of this specification and the prosecution history that follows and to encompass all structural and functional equivalents. Notwithstanding, none of the claims are intended to embrace subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirement of Sections 101, 102, or 103 of the Patent Act, nor should they be interpreted in such a way. Any unintended embracement of such subject matter is hereby disclaimed.

[0108] Except as stated immediately above, nothing that has been stated or illustrated is intended or should be interpreted to cause a dedication of any component, step, feature, object, benefit, advantage, or equivalent to the public, regardless of whether it is or is not recited in the claims.

[0109] It will be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding respective areas of inquiry and study except where specific meanings haveotherwise been set forth herein. Relational terms such as first and second and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non- exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element proceeded by “a” or “an” does not, without further constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0110] The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, it can be seen that various features are grouped together in various implementations. This is for purposes of streamlining the disclosure, and is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed implementations require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed implementation. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.

[0111] While various implementations have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more implementations and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the implementations. Although many possible combinations of features are shown in the accompanying figures and discussed in this detailed description, many other combinations of the disclosed features are possible. Any feature of any implementation may be used in combination with or substituted for any other feature or element in any other implementation unless specifically restricted. Therefore, it will be understood that any of the features shown and / or discussed in the present disclosure may be implemented together in any suitable combination. Accordingly, the implementations are not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A system for electroporation of a rectal cancer tumor, the system comprising: a linear probe configured to deliver electrical pulses to the rectal cancer tumor, the linear probe comprising: two electrodes, configured to encompass a portion or whole of the rectal cancer tumor there between and transfer electrical pulses thereto, each respective electrode comprising a flat electrically conductive four-bladed structure with a central hole; a camera, configured to capture an image and / or a video from the rectal cancer tumor and surrounding environment; a fixture body, the two electrodes and the camera being mounted on the fixture body, the fixture body comprising: four guide shafts, each respective guide shaft comprising an elongated beam with a distal end and a proximal end, each respective guide shaft passing through a free space between each two blades of each electrode; a guide shaft holder, comprising a cylinder with a closed upper base and an open lower base, the closed upper base comprising four openings and a central hole, each respective opening receiving the proximal end of each guide shaft of the four guide shafts fixed at the opening; and a head covering the camera therein, the head being configured to be inserted into the rectum, the head comprising: a head body, comprising a cylinder encompassing the camera, the cylinder comprising a head base with four peripheral openings, a central hole, and an opening in the proximity of the central hole, lens of the camera being fixed inside the central hole capable of monitoring location of the two electrodes and space there around, each respective opening receiving the distal end of each guide shaft of the four guide shafts fixed at the opening; and a head cap being fixed on the head body, the head cap comprising a conical structure configured to facilitate insertion of the linear probe into rectum, the head cap being configured to protect the camera; 1two electrode adjustment sets, configured to adjust respective locations of the two electrodes and a distance between the two electrodes, each respective electrode adjustment set comprising: an electrode carrier, comprising a first flat cylinder with four openings and a central hole, each respective opening receiving one guide shaft of the four guide shafts passing therethrough, one electrode of the two electrodes attached onto the electrode carrier; an electrode end holder, comprising a second flat cylinder with four openings and a central hole, each respective opening receiving one guide shaft of the four guide shafts passing therethrough, the electrode end holder being freely movable along the four guide shafts forward and / or backward; and a pair of drive pipes mounted around two respective guide shafts of the four guide shafts, the pair of drive pipes attached to the electrode carrier and the electrode end holder, the pair of drive pipes transmitting motion from the electrode end holder to the electrode carrier and the respective electrode along the two guide shafts forward and / or backward; and a set of electrically conductive wires, comprising: a pair of electrode wires, each respective electrode wire comprising a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end of each respective electrode wire attached to the respective central hole of one electrode of the two electrodes; and a camera wire comprising a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end of the camera wire attached to the camera; an electrical pulse generator configured to apply an electric field between the two electrodes, each respective proximal end of the pair of electrode wires connected to a different pole of two poles of the electrical pulse generator; and a processing unit electrically connected to the electrical pulse generator and the camera, the proximal end of the camera wire connected to the processing unit, the processing unit comprising: a memory having processor-readable instructions stored therein; and 2a processor configured to access the memory and execute the processor- readable instructions, which, when executed by the processor configures the processor to perform a method, the method comprising: adjusting, utilizing the camera, a location of the two electrodes at both sides of the rectal cancer tumor by capturing one or more images and / or videos from space behind the head inside the fixture body; and generating, utilizing the electrical pulse generator, an electric field between the two electrodes by applying at least one sequence of electric voltage pulses between the two electrodes.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein capturing the one or more images and / or videos from the space behind the head inside the fixture body comprises capturing one or more images and / or videos from a space within a distance in a range of 2 mm to 10 cm behind the head inside the fixture body.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein applying the at least one sequence of electric voltage pulses between the two electrodes comprises applying at least one sequence of eight square- wave electric voltage pulses with a magnitude in a range of 400 V / cm to 1500 V / cm and a duration of 100 µs between the two electrodes.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the method further comprises: capturing, utilizing the camera, a set of images and / or videos from the rectal cancer tumor while applying the electric field between the two electrodes; and ceasing generating the electric field between the two electrodes responsive to at least one image or video of the captured set of images and / or videos demonstrating a complete elimination of the rectal cancer tumor.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein a distance between the two electrodes is adjustable in a range of 0 cm to 10 cm by moving at least one electrode end holder of the two electrode adjustment sets forward or backward along the four guide shafts.

36. The system of claim 1, wherein each electrode of the two electrodes comprises a layer of a biocompatible electrically conductive material with a thickness in a range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein each guide shaft of the four guide shafts comprises a bar with a diameter in a range of 1 mm to 5 mm and a length in a range of 10 cm to 40 cm made of medical grade stainless steel.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein each drive pipe of the pair of drive pipes comprises a hollow cylinder with a length in a range of 5 cm to 20 cm, wherein the hollow cylinder comprises an inner diameter in a range of 1 mm to 5 mm and an outer diameter in a range of 1 mm to 5 mm.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the head, the guide shaft holder, the electrode carrier, and the electrode end holder are made of a biocompatible electrically insulating material.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein each of the head, the guide shaft holder, the electrode carrier, and the electrode end holder are made of at least one of Polypyrrole, Polylactic acid (PLA), silicone rubber, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), Teflon, polyethylene, and combinations thereof.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the linear probe further comprises a handle configured to facilitate insertion of the linear probe into the rectum, the guide shaft holder being attached to the handle via one of a snap fit joint or a turn lock attachment.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the handle comprises two openings, the two openings comprising: a first opening comprising an inlet receiving the set of electrically conductive wires therein; and a second opening comprising an outlet for the set of electrically conductive wires.

413. The system of claim 12, wherein the linear probe comprises a hollow path therein, the hollow path comprising a path along the opening in the proximity of the central hole of the head base and the respective central holes of the two electrodes, the electrode carrier, the electrode end holder, the guide shaft holder, and the two openings of the handle, the hollow path receiving the set of electrically conductive wires passing therethrough, wherein the respective proximal ends of the set of electrically conductive wires are protruded out from the outlet.

14. A linear probe for electrically stimulation of a rectal cancer tumor, the linear probe comprising: two electrodes, configured to encompass a portion or whole of the rectal cancer tumor there between and transfer electrical pulses thereto, each respective electrode comprising a flat electrically conductive four-bladed structure with a central hole, a distance between the two electrodes being adjustable in a range of 0 cm to 10 cm; a camera, configured to capture an image and / or a video from the rectal cancer tumor and surrounding environment; a fixture body, the two electrodes and the camera being mounted on the fixture body, the fixture body comprising: four guide shafts, each respective guide shaft comprising an elongated beam with a distal end and a proximal end, each respective guide shaft passing through a free space between each two blades of each electrode; a guide shaft holder, comprising a cylinder with a closed upper base and an open lower base, the closed upper base comprising four openings and a central hole, each respective opening receiving the proximal end of each guide shaft of the four guide shafts fixed at the opening; and a head covering the camera therein, the head being configured to be inserted into the rectum, the head comprising: a head body, comprising a cylinder encompassing the camera, the cylinder comprising a head base with four peripheral openings, a central hole, and an opening in the proximity of the central hole, lens of camera being fixed inside the central hole capable of monitoring location of the two electrodes and 5space there around, each respective opening receiving the distal end of each guide shaft of the four guide shafts fixed at the opening; and a head cap being fixed on the head body, the head cap comprising a conical structure configured to facilitate insertion of the linear probe into rectum, the head cap being configured to protect the camera; two electrode adjustment sets, configured to adjust respective locations of the two electrodes and a distance between the two electrodes, each respective electrode adjustment set comprising: an electrode carrier, comprising a first flat cylinder with four openings and a central hole, each respective opening receiving one guide shaft of the four guide shafts passing therethrough, one electrode of the two electrodes attached onto the electrode carrier; an electrode end holder, comprising a second flat cylinder with four openings and a central hole, each respective opening receiving one guide shaft of the four guide shafts passing therethrough, the electrode end holder being freely movable along the four guide shafts forward and / or backward; and a pair of drive pipes mounted around two guide shafts of the four guide shafts, the pair of drive pipes attached to the electrode carrier and the electrode end holder, the pair of drive pipes transmitting motion from the electrode end holder to the electrode carrier and the respective electrode along the two guide shafts forward and / or backward; and a set of electrically conductive wires, comprising: a pair of electrode wires, each respective electrode wire comprising a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end of each respective electrode wire attached to the respective central hole of one electrode of the two electrodes; and a camera wire comprising a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end of the camera wire attached to the camera.

15. The linear probe of claim 14, wherein each electrode of the two electrodes comprises a layer of a biocompatible electrically conductive material with a thickness in a range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm.

616. The linear probe of claim 14, wherein each guide shaft of the four guide shafts comprises a bar with a diameter in a range of 1 mm to 5 mm and a length in a range of 10 cm to 40 cm made of medical grade stainless steel.

17. The linear probe of claim 14, wherein each drive pipe of the pair of drive pipes comprises a hollow cylinder with a length in a range of 5 cm to 20 cm, wherein the hollow cylinder comprises an inner diameter in a range of 1 mm to 5 mm and an outer diameter in a range of 1 mm to 5 mm.

18. The linear probe of claim 14, wherein each of the head, the guide shaft holder, the electrode carrier, and the electrode end holder are made of at least one of Polypyrrole, Polylactic acid (PLA), and combinations thereof.

19. The linear probe of claim 14, wherein the linear probe further comprises a handle configured to facilitate insertion of the linear probe into the rectum, the guide shaft holder being attached to the handle via one of a snap fit joint or a turn lock attachment, wherein the handle comprises two openings, the two openings comprising: a first opening comprising an inlet receiving the set of electrically conductive wires therein; and a second opening comprising an outlet for the set of electrically conductive wires.

20. The linear probe of claim 19, wherein the linear probe comprises a hollow path therein, the hollow path comprising a path along the opening in the proximity of the central hole of the head base and the respective central holes of the two electrodes, the electrode carrier, the electrode end holder, the guide shaft holder, and the two openings of the handle, the hollow path receiving the set of electrically conductive wires passing therethrough, wherein the respective proximal ends of the set of electrically conductive wires are protruded out from the outlet. 7

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