Dosimetrically customizable brachytherapy carriers and methods thereof in the treatment of tumors

Abstract

Brachytherapy radioisotope carrier systems and methodology for providing real-time customized brachytherapy treatment to subjects with tumors difficult to control using conventional radiation therapy techniques. The invention generally relates to devices, methods and kits for providing customized radionuclide treatments, to help cure, slow progression or regrowth, or ameliorate the symptoms associated with tumors.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 460,792, filed on Apr. 30, 2012, entitled “DOSIMETRICALLY CUSTOMIZABLE BRACHYTHERAPY CARRIERS AND METHODS THEREOF IN THE TREATMENT OF TUMORS”, which claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119 of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61 / 480,304, filed Apr. 28, 2011, and entitled “DOSIMETRICALLY CUSTOMIZABLE INTERSTITIAL RADIONUCLIDE BRAIN IMPLANTS, CARRIERS AND METHODS THEREOF”. The disclosures of the foregoing applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The invention generally relates to using radiation therapy to treat tumors and more specifically to dosimetrically customizable carriers, kits and techniques for using the invention in the treatment of tumors.[0004]2. Background Information[0005]Tumors in living organisms are highly variable in size, location and their amount of infiltration into nor...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a system for planning and using implantable radionuclide carriers to treat tumors. The system includes a carrier that can be inserted into a tumor or surrounding area to help treat the cancer. The carrier is designed to minimize the impact on surrounding normal tissues, and can also be visualized using CT or MRI to accurately place it in position. The carrier system can help improve the efficacy of cancer treatment and can be tailored to the specific needs of each patient.

Problems solved by technology

Tumors in living organisms are highly variable in size, location and their amount of infiltration into normal tissues, the variability of tumors in general make them very difficult to treat with a one-size fits all approach.

Furthermore, the extent of tumors and / or void upon debulking are typically not known until presented in the operating room.

Tumors are difficult to eradicate surgically as their infiltrative nature often precludes microscopically complete resection without undue morbidity or mortality.

However, the ability to deliver high doses of radiation in the post operative setting is frequently limited by intolerance of surrounding healthy tissue.

The currently available brachytherapy devices and techniques are lacking in the following areas: 1) the current carriers are unable to easily accommodate anatomically conformal and reproducible brachytherapy doses; 2) do not facilitate real-time dosimetric customization for sparing normal tissue, while delivering effective and safe doses of radiation to tumors; and 3) are not able to incorporate additional therapeutic agents, including chemotherapy, and viral, targeted, and DNA damage repair inhibitors.

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