Brachytherapy Applicator With Integrated Ultrasound Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current brachytherapy imaging methods for cervical cancer treatment, such as 2D X-ray imaging, are limited and costly, while 3D imaging modalities like MRI and CT introduce significant expenses and workflow complexities, and trans-abdominal and trans-rectal ultrasound modalities fail to visualize essential anatomy, leading to a need for improved imaging systems that enable image-guided treatment.
Innovation Solution
Integration of ultrasound elements or probes with brachytherapy applicators to provide 3D conformal dose planning at the point of care, allowing for direct contact with the patient's anatomy and real-time feedback, reducing the need for additional imaging devices and improving visualization of critical anatomy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If 3D imaging modalities (MRI/CT) are used for dose planning, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the brachytherapy applicator with ultrasound imaging capabilities into a single integrated device. The applicator includes ultrasound elements that can image anatomy directly at the treatment site, eliminating the need for separate MRI/CT scanners and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining 3D imaging precision for dose planning
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces ultrasound as an intermediary imaging modality between the applicator and the treatment planning system. The ultrasound elements provide real-time 3D anatomical information that serves as a mediator for dose calculation, avoiding the need for complex external imaging modalities
2Device complexity
If trans-abdominal or trans-rectal ultrasound is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to inability to visualize anatomy
Solution Approach 1:
The brachytherapy applicator performs self-service by incorporating ultrasound imaging elements directly into its structure. The applicator images its own position and the surrounding anatomy during treatment, eliminating the need for separate imaging devices and providing direct visualization of critical structures without requiring complex external imaging systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the imaging function into discrete ultrasound elements integrated within the applicator body. These segmented ultrasound elements can be positioned at specific locations along the applicator to image different anatomical regions, providing precise localized imaging without requiring a complex external imaging system
3Measurement precision
If multiple imaging devices are used for comprehensive anatomy visualization, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brachytherapy applicator is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as the radiation delivery device and the imaging device. The integrated ultrasound elements enable the applicator to perform anatomy visualization, positioning, and treatment planning functions, eliminating the need for multiple separate imaging devices and reducing overall procedure time
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient, cost-effective, and accurate 3D conformal dose planning and real-time adjustment of the treatment plan, reducing procedure time and eliminating the need for multiple imaging devices, while improving image reconstruction and needle positioning accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
at least one ultrasound element, element array, or probe coupled to the applicator body
Data Source
AI summary
A brachytherapy system includes a brachytherapy applicator. The brachytherapy applicator includes an applicator tube and a radiation source configured to deliver radiation to a tumor. At least a portion of the applicator tube is configured to conform to at least a portion of a patient's anatomy. At least one ultrasound element or probe is coupled to or embedded with the applicator tube.