Device for intermittently performing care sessions to form a large skin area care

A device of guiding a multiple area dermatologic care process. The device comprises a carrier which supports a drive of a dermatologic care tool over a skin area while the dermatologic care tool intermittently performs a plurality of dermatologic care sessions each in one of a plurality of skin subareas of the skin area and a brake unit which regulates a movement of the carrier from a first skin subarea to a second skin subarea during the drive of the dermatologic care tool.

Methods for face and neck lifts

Methods for treating skin and subcutaneous tissue with energy such as ultrasound energy are disclosed. In various embodiments, ultrasound energy is applied at a region of interest to affect tissue by cutting, ablating, micro-ablating, coagulating, or otherwise affecting the subcutaneous tissue to conduct numerous procedures that are traditionally done invasively in a non-invasive manner. Methods of lifting sagging tissue on a face and/or neck are described.

System and Method for Non-invasive Cosmetic Treatment

Embodiments of a dermatological cosmetic treatment and imaging system and method can include use of a hand wand and a removable transducer module having an ultrasound transducer. The system can include a control module that is coupled to the hand wand and has a graphical user interface for controlling the removable transducer module, and an interface coupling the hand wand to the control module. In some embodiments, the cosmetic treatment system may be used in cosmetic procedures on at least a portion of a face, head, neck, body, and/or other part of a patient for a face lift, a brow lift, a chin lift, an eye treatment, a wrinkle reduction, a scar reduction, a burn treatment, a tattoo removal, a skin tightening, a vein reduction, a treatment on a sweat gland, a treatment of hyperhidrosis, a sun spot removal, a fat treatment, a vaginal rejuvenation, and/or an acne treatment.

Transoesophageal device using high intensity focused ultrasounds for cardiac thermal ablation

The present invention relates to a probe that comprises a piezoelectric therapy transducer having an acoustic axis BB′, and an imaging transducer having an imaging plane, in which the therapy transducer and imaging transducer are mounted in a head which is itself connected to a guide. More particularly, the therapy transducer is in a form of a truncated cup and has a spherical concave front face for emitting ultrasonic waves focused on a focal point, a rear surface and the therapy transducer is truncated alone two parallel lanes such that a length d 1 , a width t and a longitudinal direction are provided; the therapy transducer is a 1D annular phased array transducer and the imaging transducer is a multiplane transducer having a rotation axis corresponding to the acoustic axis of the therapy transducer whereby the focal point of the therapy transducer is comprised in the imaging plane of the imaging transducer, said imaging transducer being fixed to the therapy transducer

Tissue treatment and monitoring by application of energy

Apparatus is provided, which includes at least one ultrasound transducer. The ultrasound transducer is configured to be positioned within a lumen of a subject and to ablate tissue surrounding a wall of the lumen without ablating the wall of the lumen, by focusing ultrasound energy on a focal zone that is outside of the wall of the lumen. A transluminal delivery tool is configured to position the ultrasound transducer in the lumen, and a control unit is configured to drive the ultrasound transducer. Other embodiments are also described.

DEVICE FOR TREATMENT OF A TISSUE AND METHOD OF PREPARATION OF AN IMAGE OF AN IMAGE-GUIDED DEVICE FOR TREATMENT OF A TISSUE

A device for treatment of a tissue () of a living being, including a transducer () for emitting a beam of ultrasound waves mounted on a movable treatment head (), an ultrasonic imaging device (), optionally an inflatable balloon () surrounding the treatment head () and containing a coupling fluid, and a control unit for controlling movement of the treatment head () and operation of the transducer () and the imaging device (). In order to avoid displacement of tissues () during displacement of the treatment head () and increase imaging quality, the treatment head () is adjustable to at least two of a treatment position (T), a monitoring position (M) and a travel position (S). 117-. (canceled)18. A device for treatment of a tissue of a living being , the device comprising:a transducer, for emitting a beam of ultrasound waves for irradiating the tissue, mounted on a movable treatment head, and the beam being focused on or focusable onto a focal point;an ultrasonic imaging device mounted on the treatment head having an imaging plane intersecting the focal point;an inflatable balloon at least partially surrounding the treatment head, containing a coupling fluid and defining a contact surface of the treatment head; anda control unit for controlling movement of the treatment head and operation of the transducer and the imaging device;wherein the treatment head is adjustable to a treatment position and a monitoring position,in the monitoring position, a distance between the transducer and the tissue is smaller than in the treatment position, andthe control unit is adapted to:trigger the transducer to emit at least one beam of ultrasound waves when the treatment head is in the treatment position, andperform imaging of an area, surrounding the tissue, at least when the treatment head is in the monitoring position.19. The device according to claim 18 , wherein the control unit is adapted to move the treatment head claim 18 , after emission of an ultrasound pulse from the ...

3d conformal radiation therapy with reduced tissue stress and improved positional tolerance

An approach for enhancing radiation treatment of target tissue includes identifying a target volume of the target tissue; causing disruption of vascular tissue in a region confined to the target volume so as to define the target volume; based at least in part on the disruption of the vascular tissue, determining a radiation treatment plan having a reduced radiation dose for treating the target tissue; and exposing the target volume to the reduced radiation dose based on the radiation treatment plan.

NON-INVASIVE AND OPTIMIZED SYSTEM FOR THE REJUVENATION AND REMOVAL OF WRINKLES OF THE SKIN

The invention relates to a system and method for the removal of wrinkles and/or provide the rejuvenation of the human skin by use of ultrasound. The method comprises determining a 3D image of a region of the skin using ultrasound, determining a focal depth of the ultrasonic beam for different locations of the skin based on the 3D image, performing the treatment by heating the skin at different locations using an ultrasonic beam, and adjusting the focal depth of the ultrasonic beam according to the determined focal depths during the process of heating the skin at different locations. 1. A system for treating wrinkles and rejuvenating skin on a human body , the system comprising a diagnostic component and a therapeutic component , an ultrasound probe , wherein the diagnostic component and the therapeutic component are connected to the ultrasound probe for diagnosis and therapy , a processor , and a memory , the processor running a program stored in the memory causing the system to perform the following steps:obtaining an image of a depth of the skin in a region of interest on the skin using the diagnostic component; andat each target point of a plurality of target points in the region of interest, determining how many ultrasound therapy foci to apply and the depths of each of the ultrasound therapy foci based on the image, and applying the ultrasound therapy foci at each of the depths using the therapeutic component.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the ultrasound probe comprises one of:i) a single ultrasound transducer or transducer array that is used by both the diagnostic component and the therapeutic component;ii) separate transducers or transducer arrays used respectively for the diagnostic component and the therapeutic component, and angled so that diagnostic beams and therapeutic beams overlap in the skin; andiii) separate transducers or transducer arrays used respectively for the diagnostic component and the therapeutic component, the separate transducers or ...

SYSTEM FOR TREATING A VOLUME OF TISSUE WITH HIGH INTENSITY FOCUSED ULTRASOUND

A method and system for treating a desired volume of tissue using HIFU or other energy modality includes ablating a pattern of elemental treatment volumes each having a volume that is greater than that of the focal zone of the HIFU transducer but smaller than the overall volume of the desired treatment volume. In at least one embodiment, the elemental treatment volumes are arranged to form a shell which partially or wholly encapsulates the desired volume of tissue, which then necroses in situ. The elemental treatment volumes are created by distributing HIFU energy in multiple doses with repeated passes of the focal zone of the HIFU transducer in a trajectory over or along a perimeter of each elemental treatment volume. 1. A system for treating uterine fibroids or other uterine tissue , comprising:a hand-held or hand-guided HIFU applicator with a movable transducer focal zone that is configured to deliver HIFU treatment signals to a treatment site in a uterine fibroid or other uterine tissue;an imaging transducer that produces imaging signals representative of the uterine fibroids or other uterine tissue; anda processor programmed to determine a pattern in which to apply HIFU around the periphery of a fibroid or other targeted volume of uterine tissue and to control the position of the focal zone of the HIFU transducer to apply HIFU energy in this pattern.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the pattern in which HIFU is applied consists of a number of elemental treatment volumes created around the periphery of the fibroid or other targeted volume of uterine tissue.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein each elemental treatment volume has size selected such that an interior region is treated by indirect heating as the treatment energy is repeatedly applied to a perimeter of the elemental treatment volume.4. The system of claim 2 , wherein the processor is programmed to control the position the focal zone of the HIFU transducer in a pattern to create a number of elemental ...

FOCUSED ULTRASOUND STIMULATION APPARATUS USING USER CUSTOMIZED ACOUSTIC LENS

A focused ultrasound stimulation apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a transducer which outputs low intensity/high intensity ultrasound, an acoustic lens which is placed in close contact with a user's skin and is customized to focus the ultrasound onto a target focal point, and a fixture for fixing the transducer and the acoustic lens to each other. The acoustic lens is customized using a 3-dimensional (3D) printer based on the pre-captured user's cranial shape, to focus the ultrasound a desired focus target for each user, thereby improving accuracy compared to conventional ultrasound stimulation apparatus. 1. A focused ultrasound stimulation apparatus , comprising:a transducer which outputs ultrasound;an acoustic lens which is placed in close contact with a user's skin, and is customized to focus the ultrasound onto a target focal point; anda fixture for fixing the transducer and the acoustic lens to each other.2. The focused ultrasound stimulation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the acoustic lens is customized using a 3-dimensional (3D) printer based on a pre-captured user's cranial shape.3. The focused ultrasound stimulation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the acoustic lens is customized to focus the ultrasound separately onto at least two target focal points.4. The focused ultrasound stimulation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the fixture is configured to attach and detach the acoustic lens.5. The focused ultrasound stimulation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the fixture is configured to insert a second acoustic lens between the transducer and the acoustic lens claim 1 ,wherein the second acoustic lens is customized to focus the ultrasound onto a target focal point different from the target focal point.6. The focused ultrasound stimulation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein further comprises a third acoustic lens which is attached in front of the transducer to improve focality of the ultrasound.7. The ...

Band transducer ultrasound therapy

Embodiments of a dermatological cosmetic treatment and/or imaging system and method can include use of transducer to create a linear thermal treatment zone at a focal depth to form a band shaped treatment area. The system can include one or more ultrasound transducers, a cylindrical transduction element, an imaging element, a hand wand, a removable transducer module, a control module, and/or graphical user interface. In some embodiments, a coated transducer may be used to provide more consistent treatment in cosmetic procedures, including brow lifts, fat reduction, sweat reduction, and treatment of the décolletage. Skin tightening, lifting and amelioration of wrinkles and stretch marks are provided. Treatment may include heating of tissue for a duration to deactivate a percentage of cells in the treatment region.

Transcranial ultrasound focusing

The invention introduces a system for focusing ultrasonic energy through intervening tissue into a target site within a target tissue region, includes a transducer emitter array, a transducer receiver array, a processor receiving echo signals from the receiver to determine correction factors for the transducer elements to compensate for refraction occurring due to intervening tissue. The correction factors may include phase correction factors, and the phases of excitation signals provided to the transducer elements may be adjusted based upon the phase correction factors to focus the ultrasonic energy to the tissue at the target site.

ACOUSTIC MODULE AND CONTROL SYSTEM FOR HANDHELD ULTRASOUND DEVICE

An acoustic module with a transducer and a solid waveguide. The transducer and waveguide may be curved to focus the acoustic energy along a focal line. The transducer, the top surface of the waveguide and the bottom surface of the waveguide may extend along coaxial curves. The waveguide may include a recess closely receiving the transducer. The waveguide may include an integral skirt that provides a thermal mass. The acoustic module may include a space to accommodate thermal management options. For example, the acoustic module may include a heatsink, an active ventilation system and/or a phase change material. The ultrasound device may include a controller configured to perform a uniformity scan sweep during supply of operating power to the transducer. The uniformity scan sweep can extend through a frequency range that includes the operating point of the acoustic module and does not exceed an acceptable efficiency loss. 1. An acoustic module comprising:a one-piece solid waveguide, said waveguide having a first surface with a first curvature and a second surface with a second curvature, said second surface configured to contact a target, said first and second curvatures selected to focus acoustic energy along a focal line a predetermined distance from said second surface into a target;an ultrasound transducer disposed on said first surface, said ultrasound transducer having a curvature corresponding with said first curvature.2. The acoustic module of wherein said first curvature and said second curvature are curved about a common axis.3. The acoustic module of wherein said transducer includes a first conductive plate and a second conductive plate claim 2 , said second conductive plate being electrically connected to said waveguide.4. The acoustic module of further including a first electrode and a second electrode for applying an electrical signal to said transducer claim 3 , said first electrode being electrically connected to said first conductive plate claim 3 , ...

Ultrasonic medical instrument having variable focusing depth of ultrasonic wave generating unit

Embodiments of the inventive concept provide an ultrasonic medical instrument moving horizontally by adjusting a depth wise location of an ultrasonic wave generating unit while not influencing an internal volume of a cartridge and variously setting focusing depths of ultrasonic waves in skin.

METHODS FOR FACE AND NECK LIFTS

Methods for treating skin and subcutaneous tissue with energy such as ultrasound energy are disclosed. In various embodiments, ultrasound energy is applied at a region of interest to affect tissue by cutting, ablating, micro-ablating, coagulating, or otherwise affecting the subcutaneous tissue to conduct numerous procedures that are traditionally done invasively in a non-invasive manner. Methods of lifting sagging tissue on a face and/or neck are described. 1acoustically coupling an ultrasound probe system to a skin surface on a brow, the ultrasound probe system comprising an imaging element, a therapy element, and a motion mechanism;wherein the motion mechanism is controlled by a control system in communication with the ultrasound probe;using the ultrasound imaging element to image a region of interest under said skin surface at a fixed depth, the region of interest comprising a tissue comprising a portion of at least one of muscular fascia, fat, and SMAS tissue;wherein the region of interest at said fixed depth is displayed on a display system, said display system being electronically connected to said ultrasound imaging element;using the ultrasound therapy element to treat said region of interest;wherein the therapy element is coupled to the motion mechanism within the probe;wherein the therapy element is configured for targeted delivery of ablative ultrasound energy to form a thermal lesion with at least a temperature sufficient to treat at least a portion of the tissue at the fixed depth of up to about 9 mm from the skin surface; andactivating the motion mechanism within the probe to form a plurality of said thermal lesions along a line at the fixed depth into said tissue to cause any one of the group consisting of ablation, deactivation, and shrinkage of at least a portion of the tissue,wherein the plurality of thermal lesions facilitates a tightening of the tissue that leads to a brow lift.. A method of treating a sagging brow, the method comprising: This ...

Ultrasound based method and apparatus for stone detection and to facilitate clearance thereof

Described herein are methods and apparatus for detecting stones by ultrasound, in which the ultrasound reflections from a stone are preferentially selected and accentuated relative to the ultrasound reflections from blood or tissue. Also described herein are methods and apparatus for applying pushing ultrasound to in vivo stones or other objects, to facilitate the removal of such in vivo objects.

Cancer Imaging Methods And Cancer Treatment Methods Using Thermotherapy And Drug Delivery

Cancer imaging methods and cancer treatment methods using thermotherapy and drug delivery are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the temperature of heated tissue is determined from radio-frequency data from an ultrasound transducer based upon a change in backscattered energy of acoustic harmonics. In another embodiment, a plurality of nanocarriers containing an anti-tumor medication are administered to a patient, and are excited in a first non-thermal ultrasound mode and/or a second thermal ultrasound mode using an ultrasound source. In yet another embodiment, a plurality of nanoparticles are administered to a patient, then at least some of the nanoparticles are heated along with tissue at a site of a tumor, and a photoacoustic imaging unit is used to determine a temperature of the heated tissue at the site of the tumor. 1. A non-invasive thermometry method for use in cancer treatment and/or imaging , the method comprising the steps of:heating tissue using a thermal energy source at a site of a tumor so as to damage one or more tumor cell membranes and release antigenic material in vivo that activates and stimulates an immunogenic response of the patient at the site of the tumor;imaging the heated tissue at the site of the tumor using an imaging ultrasound transducer so as to acquire radio-frequency data; anddetermining, by using an ultrasound scanner, a temperature of the heated tissue at the site of the tumor from the radio-frequency data acquired by the imaging ultrasound transducer, the temperature being determined from the radio-frequency data based upon a change in backscattered energy of acoustic harmonics.2. The non-invasive thermometry method according to claim 1 , wherein the thermal energy source for heating the tissue is selected from the group consisting of ultrasound claim 1 , laser claim 1 , an alternating magnetic field claim 1 , microwave radiation claim 1 , and radiofrequency (RF) energy.3. The non-invasive thermometry method according to claim 1 ...

ACOUSTIC ENERGY TREATMENT

The present invention relates to methods of restoring cognitive function in aged individuals that do not exhibit a clinically detectable neurodegenerative disease. In one aspect, the present invention provides a method of improving cognitive function in an aged individual that does not have a neurodegenerative disease characterized by aggregation of a pathological protein, the method comprising or consisting of: applying a clinically safe level of acoustic energy to sites within a region of the brain, thereby saturating or substantially saturating the region with acoustic energy, thereby improving cognitive function in the aged individual. 1. A method of improving or restoring cognitive function in an aged individual that does not have a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the presence of a pathological protein , the method comprising:applying a clinically safe level of acoustic energy to sites within a region of the brain, thereby saturating or substantially saturating the region with acoustic energy,thereby improving or restoring cognitive function in the aged individual.2. A method according to claim 1 , wherein the cognitive function is learning or memory.3. A method according to claim 2 , wherein the memory is short-term memory.4. A method according to claim 2 , wherein the memory is long-term memory.5. A method according to claim 2 , wherein the learning is decision-making.6. A method according to any one of to claim 2 , wherein the aged individual is at least 45 years old.7. A method according claim 6 , wherein the aged individual is at least 65 years old.8. A method according claim 6 , wherein the aged individual is at least 75 years old.9. A method according to any one of to claim 6 , wherein the individual displays cognitive impairment of at least 10% compared to an age-matched control subject.10. A method according to claim 9 , wherein the individual displays cognitive impairment of at least 50% compared to an age-matched control subject.11. A ...

System for skin cancer treatment using low intensity ultrasound

The present invention relates to a system for skin cancer treatment using low intensity ultrasound. The system comprises an ultrasound transducer, a temperature sensing unit, and a control unit. The temperature sensing unit measures the temperature of the skin being exposed to ultrasound and provides temperature data to the control unit, which controls the ultrasound transducer accordingly.

Ultrasonic Lesion Feedback, Antipop Monitoring, and Force Detection

An ablation catheter comprises: an elongated catheter body extending longitudinally between a proximal end and a distal end along a longitudinal axis; a distal member disposed adjacent the distal end, the distal member including an ablation element to ablate a biological member; one or more acoustic transducers disposed in the distal member and each configured to direct an acoustic signal toward a respective target ablation region and receive reflection echoes therefrom; and an acoustic redirection member disposed in the distal member to at least partially redirect the acoustic signal from at least one of the acoustic transducers toward a tissue target. The distal member includes a most-distal portion, a proximal portion, and a deflectable portion between the most-distal portion and proximal portion to permit deflection between the most-distal portion and proximal portion of the distal member. The transducers and redirection member are mounted on opposite sides of the deflectable portion. 123- (canceled).24. An method for monitoring a medical procedure , comprising: an elongated catheter body extending longitudinally between a proximal end and a distal end along a longitudinal axis;', 'a distal member disposed adjacent the distal end and including a most-distal portion, a proximal portion, and a deflectable portion between the most-distal portion and the proximal portion to permit deflection between the most-distal portion and the proximal portion of the distal member, the deflectable portion being more deflectable than at least one of the most-distal portion or the proximal portion;', 'an acoustic transducer disposed in the distal member and configured to emit acoustic energy toward a biological member and receive reflection echoes therefrom; and', 'an acoustic redirection member disposed in the distal member to at least partially redirect the acoustic energy emitted from the acoustic transducer toward a tissue target,', 'wherein one of the acoustic transducer and ...

BAND TRANSDUCER ULTRASOUND THERAPY

Embodiments of a dermatological cosmetic treatment and/or imaging system and method can include use of transducer to create a linear thermal treatment zone at a focal depth to form a band shaped treatment area. The system can include one or more ultrasound transducers, a cylindrical transduction element, an imaging element, a hand wand, a removable transducer module, a control module, and/or graphical user interface. In some embodiments, a coated transducer may be used to provide more consistent treatment in cosmetic procedures, including brow lifts, fat reduction, sweat reduction, and treatment of the décolletage. Skin tightening, lifting and amelioration of wrinkles and stretch marks are provided. Treatment may include heating of tissue for a duration to deactivate a percentage of cells in the treatment region. 1. An ultrasound transduction system , comprising:a cylindrical transduction element; anda power source configured to drive the cylindrical transduction element,wherein the cylindrical transduction element is configured to apply ultrasonic energy to a linear focal zone at a focal depth,wherein the cylindrical transduction element comprises a first surface and a second surface,wherein the first surface comprises an electrically conductive coating fully covering the first surface,wherein the second surface comprises two electrically conductive coated regions and at least one region that is not coated with an electrically conductive coating,wherein the two coated regions on the second surface comprises a conductive material that forms an electrode when the power source is in electric communication with each coated region,wherein the conductive material comprises silver;wherein the coated regions on the second surface cover at least 60% of the second surface;wherein the coated regions on the second surface comprise a lateral edge, a medial edge, a first side edge, and a second side edge;wherein the two coated regions on the second surface is configured to ...

REJUVENATING SKIN BY HEATING TISSUE FOR COSMETIC TREATMENT OF THE FACE AND BODY

Systems and methods for treating skin and subcutaneous tissue with energy such as ultrasound energy are disclosed. In various embodiments, ultrasound energy is applied at a region of interest to affect tissue by cutting, ablating, micro-ablating, coagulating, or otherwise affecting the subcutaneous tissue to conduct numerous procedures that are traditionally done invasively in a non-invasive manner. Lifting sagging tissue on a face, neck, and/or body are described. Treatment with heat is provided in several embodiments. 1providing a probe that emits ultrasound energy;coupling the probe to a skin surface over a region comprising subcutaneous fat, muscle, and connective tissue; anddelivering therapeutic ultrasound energy to the region at a treatment frequency of between 4 MHz and 15 MHz,wherein the therapeutic ultrasound energy thermally treats at least one of the group consisting of subcutaneous fat, muscle, and connective tissue at a specific depth under the skin surface to reduce skin sagging.. A method of treating sagging skin, comprising: This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/740,092 filed Jun. 15, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/965,741 filed Aug. 13, 2013, now patented as U.S. Pat. No. 9,095,697, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/835,635 filed Mar. 15, 2013, now patented as U.S. Pat. No. 8,915,853, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/494,856 filed Jun. 12, 2012, now patented as U.S. Pat. No. 8,444,562, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/857,989 filed Sep. 19, 2007, now abandoned, which claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional No. 60/826,199 filed Sep. 19, 2006, each of which are incorporated in its entirety by reference, herein. U.S. application Ser. No. 13/494,856, now patented as U.S. Pat. No. 8,444,562, is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/028,636 filed Feb. 8, 2008 and now patented as U.S. ...

HIGH INTENSITY FOCUSED ULTRASOUND TARGETING

The invention provides for a medical instrument () comprising a magnetic resonance imaging system () and a high intensity focused ultrasound system () with an adjustable focus (). Execution of instructions causes a processor to control () medical instrument to sonicate the multiple sonication points while repeatedly acquire the thermal magnetic resonance imaging data. Multiple thermal maps are reconstructed using the thermal magnetic resonance imaging data and a heating center of mass is calculated for each. By comparing each of the heating center of masses to the sonication points a spatially dependent targeting correction () is determined. The spatially dependent targeting correction is then used to offset the adjustable focus. 1. A medical instrument comprising:a magnetic resonance imaging system operable for acquiring thermal magnetic resonance data from a subject at least partially located within an imaging zone of the magnetic resonance imaging system;{'b': '240', 'a high intensity focused ultrasound system wherein the high intensity focused ultrasound system has an adjustable focus, wherein the high intensity focused ultrasound system is operable for controlling the adjustable focus to sonicate the subject at multiple sonication points () within the imaging zone;'}a processor for controlling the high intensity focused ultrasound system and the magnetic resonance imaging system; control the high intensity focused ultrasound system to sequentially sonicate the multiple sonication points to exceed a therapeutic threshold;', 'control the magnetic resonance imaging system to repeatedly acquire the thermal magnetic resonance imaging data;', 'repeatedly reconstruct multiple thermal maps using the thermal magnetic resonance imaging data;', 'calculate a heating center of mass for each of the multiple thermal maps creating a set of heating center of masses;', 'selecting several sonication points from the multiple sonication points for each member of the set of heating ...

MULTI-BEAM NEUROMODULATION TECHNIQUES

The subject matter of the present disclosure generally relates to techniques for neuromodulation of a tissue that include applying energy (e.g., ultrasound energy) into the tissue at multiple regions of interest, concurrently or consecutively. The neuromodulation may result in tissue displacement, which may be observed through changes in one or more molecules of interest. 1. An ultrasound system , comprising:at least one ultrasound transducer comprising a plurality of elements; and receive image data of tissue of the subject from the ultrasound transducer;', 'divide the image data of the tissue into a plurality of segments representative of the tissue;', 'focus the ultrasound transducer on a plurality of regions of interest, each region of interest being located within a different segment of the plurality of segments; and', 'control the ultrasound transducer to apply ultrasound energy distributed between the plurality of regions of interest to cause tissue displacement of each region of interest., 'a controller configured to control a dose of ultrasound energy applied to the subject, wherein the controller is configured to2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the tissue comprises a first organ and a second organ different than the first organ claim 1 , and wherein a first region of interest of the plurality of regions of interest is in the first organ and a second region of interest of the plurality of regions of interest is in the second organ.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein at least 75% of the dose is applied to the first organ.4. The system of claim 2 , wherein the first organ is a pancreas claim 2 , spleen claim 2 , or liver.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the tissue comprises an organ claim 1 , and wherein the plurality of regions of interest are in the organ.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to control applying the dose such that no individual segment of the plurality of segments receives more than a selected threshold of ...

SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS FOR PRESSURE-WAVE OCULAR THERAPY

Apparatus, systems, and methods for treating an eye utilizing ab externo pressure wave generation. The shockwave generator comprises a housing comprising a fluid-filled chamber and an eye-contacting surface or chamber configured to contact a surface of the eye. First and second coaxially-aligned electrodes disposed within the housing are configured to generate an electric arc across a gap between the electrode tips when energized and thus produce a shockwave in a fluid of the fluid-filled chamber. The shockwave generator is coupled to the surface of the eye before focusing a shockwave to a pre-determined location on or below the surface of the eye. A plurality of shockwave generators may be disposed within a fluid-filled chamber of a contact lens, which may comprise a contact balloon. 1. An apparatus for treating an eye , the apparatus comprising:a housing comprising a fluid-filled chamber and an eye-contacting surface configured to contact a surface of an eye;a first electrode disposed within the housing; anda second electrode disposed within the housing and coaxially aligned with the first electrode, wherein a distal tip of the first electrode and a distal tip of the second electrode are separated by a gap,wherein the first electrode and the second electrode are configured to generate an electric arc across the gap when energized and produce a shockwave in a fluid of the fluid-filled chamber.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein an inner surface of the housing is configured to focus the shockwave to a predetermined location on or below the surface of the eye.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a reflector disposed within the housing and configured to focus the shockwave to a predetermined location on or below the surface of the eye.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet in fluid communication with the fluid-filled chamber.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising one or more wires coupled to the first ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR COSMETIC ULTRASOUND TREATMENT OF SKIN

Embodiments of a dermatological cosmetic treatment and/or imaging system and method adapted for dithering ultrasound beams from a transducer to alter placement and position of one or multiple cosmetic treatment zones in tissue, simultaneous multi-focus therapy using multi-channel signal mixing, and/or dithering ultrasound beams from a transducer to alter placement and position of one or multiple cosmetic treatment zones in tissue, configured for using imaging for improved ultrasound therapy efficacy, and/or adapted for imaging with multiple focal zone sequencing and triggering for mechanically translated and/or steered ultrasound transducers are provided herein. The system can include a hand wand, a removable transducer module, and a control module. In some embodiments, the cosmetic treatment system may be used in various cosmetic procedures. 1. An ultrasound treatment and imaging system configured for reducing imaging misalignment , comprising:an ultrasonic probe comprising an ultrasound therapy transducer adapted to apply ultrasonic therapy to tissue, an ultrasound imaging transducer adapted for imaging the tissue, and a motion mechanism for moving the ultrasound imaging transducer in a first direction and a second direction,wherein the ultrasound imaging transducer is mechanically attached to the motion mechanism,wherein the first direction is opposite the second direction,{'sub': 1', 'N, 'wherein the ultrasound imaging transducer images with a focal zone sequence order (f, . . . , f), where N>1 when travelling in the first direction,'}{'sub': N', '1, 'wherein the ultrasound imaging transducer images with a second focal zone sequence order (f, . . . , f) when travelling in the second direction,'}wherein a spatial registration between the first direction imaging and the second direction imaging is improved by staggering a triggering location,{'sub': 1', 'N', 'N', '1, 'wherein the ultrasound treatment and imaging system employs a directionally dependent focal zone ...

NONINVASIVE TRANSVAGINAL ACOUSTIC THERMAL TREATMENT OF FEMALE STRESS URINARY INCONTINENCE

Systems and methods for transvaginal high intensity concentrated ultrasound. Urinary incontinence is treated through application of high intensity ultrasound to tissue structures to affect a change in the tissue. 1. A system for treating stress urinary incontinence comprising: at least one transducer array;', 'an acoustic coupling balloon; and', 'a positioning balloon., 'an applicator having2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising orientation markers.3. The system of claim 1 , further comprising an imaging transducer array.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one transducer array comprises a first curvilinear transducer array and a second curvilinear transducer array.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one transducer array comprises a first angular sectioned transducer array and a second angularly sectioned transducer array.6. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a positioning balloon.7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first transducer array and the second transducer array are positioned at about 50 degrees to about 70 degrees with respect to each other.8. The system of claim 1 , further including an imaging transducer which is pivotably positioned and configured to scan a first therapeutic zone and a second therapeutic zone.9. The system of claim 8 , wherein the imaging transducer is further configured to scan the region between the first therapeutic zone and the second therapeutic zone.10. The system of claim 1 , further comprising an acoustic coupling fluid circulation subsystem coupled to the acoustic coupling balloon.11. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a multi-channel generator coupled to the at least one transducer array.12. The system of claim 1 , further comprising an ultrasound imaging system coupled to the imaging transducer.13. The system of claim 1 , wherein the applicator is selected from the group consisting of ablator claim 1 , catheter claim 1 , and interstitial needle.14. A method of treating urinary ...

ULTRASONIC TREATMENT APPARATUS

An ultrasonic treatment apparatus includes a movement unit moving in accordance with at least one of an acting state of a load to a treatment section from a jaw and an opening angle of the jaw relative to the treatment section, a movement detector detecting a moving state of the movement unit, and a peak detecting section detecting a target peak of an ultrasonic impedance value. The ultrasonic treatment apparatus includes a control section controlling the peak detecting section to a detection disallowed state where a detection of the target peak is not executed when the movement unit is not placed within a prescribed range based on a detection result in the movement detector. 1. An ultrasonic treatment apparatus comprising:an electric power source configured to output a vibration generating electric power;an ultrasonic transducer configured to generate an ultrasonic vibration by the vibration generating electric power from the electric power source;a treatment section which is configured to perform a treatment by use of the ultrasonic vibration generated in the ultrasonic transducer;a jaw that is operable and closable relative to the treatment sectionan opening or closing operation input section to which an opening or closing operation to open or close the jaw is input;a movement unit configured to open or close the jaw by movement in accordance with the opening or closing operation in the opening or closing operation input sectiona movement detector which is configured to detect the movement of the movement unit;an impedance detecting section which is configured to detect an ultrasonic impedance value of the ultrasonic transducera peak judging section which is configured to detect a peak of the ultrasonic impedance value on the basis of detection results of changes with time of the ultrasonic impedance value anda control section which is configured to perform, on the basis of detection results in the movement detector and detection results in the peak judging ...

Systems and methods for gel management

Arrangements described herein relate to systems, apparatuses, and methods for managing gel on a subject to provide gel on a first area of the subject, including controlling a transducer to move to a second area of the subject and controlling the transducer to move the gel to the first area from the second area.

METHODS FOR LIFTING SKIN TISSUE

Methods for treating skin and subcutaneous tissue with energy such as ultrasound energy are disclosed. In various embodiments, ultrasound energy is applied at a region of interest to affect tissue by cutting, ablating, micro-ablating, coagulating, or otherwise affecting the subcutaneous tissue to conduct numerous procedures that are traditionally done invasively in a non-invasive manner. Methods of lifting sagging tissue are described. 1. (canceled)2. A method of lifting skin tissue , the method comprising:positioning an ultrasound probe on a skin surface, the ultrasound probe comprising a housing and at least one piezoelectric ultrasound therapy element, and a movement mechanism connected to the piezoelectric ultrasound therapy element within the housing,using the piezoelectric ultrasound therapy element to treat a region of interest under the skin surface, the region of interest comprising a tissue comprising at least one of the group consisting of: a muscle, a fascia, a dermis, a fat tissue, and a superficial muscular aponeurosis system (SMAS) tissue;wherein the piezoelectric ultrasound therapy element is configured for targeted delivery of ultrasound energy to form at least one thermal treatment area with at least a temperature in a range of 60-90 degrees Celsius to treat at least a portion of the tissue under the skin surface; andactivating the movement mechanism within the ultrasound probe to move the piezoelectric ultrasound therapy element to treat at least at one of the muscle, the fascia, and the SMAS resulting in a tissue lift.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein positioning the ultrasound probe on the skin surface comprises positioning the portion of the ultrasound probe on at least one of the group consisting of: a forehead claim 2 , an eyelid claim 2 , a nose claim 2 , a cheek claim 2 , an ear claim 2 , a mouth claim 2 , and a chin.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein positioning the ultrasound probe on the skin surface comprises positioning the portion of ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TREATING KIDNEYS

A method and/or system are provided for improving kidney function and/or increasing Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) of the renal system, by applying acoustic and/or ultrasonic energy to one or more of the kidneys. The method suggests either focused or non-focused (or combined) energy delivery, optionally in a noninvasive approach, which could also be implemented invasively and/or by implantable device. 168-. (canceled)69. A method of treating a kidney , modifying kidney function , preventing kidney dysfunction or preventing deterioration of kidney dysfunction , comprising:emitting a quantity of ultrasound energy to at least a portion of a kidney at a frequency, pulse shape, pulse duration, repetition rate and amplitude suitable to affect kidney function in at least a portion of said kidney;repeating said emitting for at least 30 minutes;wherein said emitting does not induce substantial thermal damage or cavitation damage to the patient's kidney.70. The method according to claim 69 , wherein most of said energy comprises a frequency higher than 5 Megahertz (MHZ).71. The method according to claim 69 , wherein most of said energy comprises a frequency from about 4 to about 7 MHz.72. The method according to claim 69 , wherein more than 80% of said ultrasound energy is emitted at said frequency.73. The method according to claim 69 , wherein said emitting is repeated for at least 1 hour.74. The method according to claim 69 , wherein said emitting comprises emitting ultrasound energy having a mechanical index below 1.0.75. The method according to claim 69 , wherein during said emitting a thermal index soft tissue or thermal index bone lower than 1.0 is kept.76. The method according to claim 69 , wherein said emitting comprises emitting at a main frequency selected to have a wavelength of a size or harmonic of a nephron structure of said kidney to be affected.77. The method according to claim 69 , wherein said pulse duration is from about 0.1 microsecond to about 100 ...

AUTOMATED ULTRASOUND BLEEDING DETECTION AND TREATMENT

In accordance with the present disclosure, ultrasound-based techniques using a combined scanning and treatment array module are employed to find and treat anomalies corresponding to bleed events. By way of example, ultrasound data may be acquired with a scanning array at one or more locations on a patient anatomy. A treatment array may deliver heat to a targeted anomaly to provide therapy. Such a technique may be useful outside of a hospital environment. 1. An ultrasound scanning and treatment system , comprising: a scanning array configured to generate a set of scan data for a scanned volume;', 'a first treatment array and a second treatment array, wherein the first treatment array and second treatment array are configured to deliver a treatment to a portion of the scanned volume;, 'an ultrasound probe, comprisinga motor configured to incrementally move the ultrasound probe; anda processor communicatively coupled to the ultrasound probe and the motor and configured to determine a location of an anomaly in the set of scan data, wherein the portion of the scanned volume contains the anomaly.2. The ultrasound scanning and treatment system of claim 1 , wherein the first treatment array and the second treatment array are configured to generate high intensity focused ultrasound as part of the treatment.3. The ultrasound scanning and treatment system of claim 1 , wherein the processor is configured to generate a sequence of images from the set of scan data.4. The ultrasound scanning and treatment system of claim 3 , wherein the processor is configured to construct a three dimensional image from the generated sequence of images.5. The ultrasound scanning and treatment system of claim 1 , wherein the processor is configured to determine a set of velocities claim 1 , flow rates and/or a set of flow directions from the set of scan data.6. The ultrasound scanning and treatment system of claim 1 , wherein the motor is configured to move the scanning array claim 1 , the first ...

NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASE TREATMENT

The present invention is directed to methods for treating neurodegenerative diseases and/or improving cognitive function, in particular those associated with protein oligomers, aggregates or deposits, using acoustic energy, such as ultrasound. An 5 example of such a neurodegenerative disease is Alzheimer's disease. The present invention provides a method of improving cognitive function and/or memory in an individual with impaired memory and/or executive function, the method including the steps of identifying a region of the brain of the individual to be treated with acoustic energy, applying a clinically safe level of acoustic energy to the region, thereby 10 saturating or substantially saturating the region with acoustic energy, thereby improving memory in the individual. 2. A method according to claim 1 , wherein the step of identifying a region of the brain includes determining a volume of the brain on the basis of symptoms displayed by the individual claim 1 , typically clinically observable or biochemically detectable symptoms.3. A method according to claim 1 , wherein the step of identifying a region of the brain includes determining a volume of the brain on the basis of a known association with a neurodegenerative disease claim 1 , in particular those associated with protein oligomers claim 1 , aggregates or deposits.4. A method according to claim 1 , wherein the step of identifying a region of the brain includes determining a volume of the brain including a volume surrounding an site having extracellular protein in a pathogenic form claim 1 , such as oligomers claim 1 , an aggregate or deposit.5. A method according to claim 1 , wherein the method further includes determining a plurality of discrete application sites for application of acoustic energy to saturate or substantially saturate the region with acoustic energy.6. A method according to claim 1 , wherein the method further includes determining a scanning path along which acoustic energy is to be ...

Transducers, systems, and manufacturing techniques for focused ultrasound therapies

A system to apply ultrasound energy to a region surrounding blood flow in a blood vessel from a position outside a patient includes: a therapeutic ultrasound transducer comprising a plurality of transducer elements; and a processor configured to control the plurality of transducer elements; wherein the processor is configured to change phase inputs to the transducer elements to move a focus of the transducer at least 1 cm in a first plane which is substantially along a plane of the transducer elements of the therapeutic ultrasound transducer and at least 1 cm in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane; and wherein the processor is further configured to position the focus of the transducer in sequential positions offset from the blood flow in the blood vessel according to a pattern pre-determined by an operator of the system.

IMAGE GUIDED FOCUSED ULTRASOUND TREATMENT DEVICE AND AIMING APPARATUS

Apparatus, methods and kits are provided for X-ray guided focused ultrasound treatment that simplify focused ultrasound treatment. The apparatus comprises an arm, a cradle, a focused ultrasound (FUS) transducer having a central axis that is affixed in to the cradle and configured to transmit an ultrasound therapeutic energy beam to a treatment location within a patient and an imaging workstation connected to an X-ray imaging unit. The FUS is further connected to a controller to control application of the FUS. The kits are utilizing coupling member (s). 1. An apparatus for a focused ultrasound (FUS) treatment operable in association with an X-Ray imaging system having an X-Ray intensifier , the apparatus comprising:a cradle having a first longitudinal axis;an aiming apparatus removably affixable to one of the cradle and the X-Ray intensifier, the aiming apparatus configured to align the first longitudinal axis of the cradle with a second axis extending through a specific point on the X-Ray intensifier and a predetermined treatment location;a FUS transducer having a third longitudinal axis, the FUS transducer is removably affixable within the cradle such that the third longitudinal axis of the FUS transducer coincides with the first longitudinal axis of the cradle when affixed therein, the FUS transducer is configured to transmit a FUS therapeutic energy beam to the predetermined treatment location; anda controller coupled to the FUS transducer to control the FUS therapeutic energy beam being transmitted by the FUS transducer.24-. (canceled)5. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising an articulated arm having a proximal arm end affixed to a procedure platform and a distal arm end affixed to the cradle claim 1 , wherein the articulated arm is configured to enable motion of the cradle in at least one of anterior-posterior (A-P) claim 1 , superior-inferior (S-I) claim 1 , and medial-lateral directions with respect to the procedure platform claim 1 , and further to ...

TISSUE STABILIZATION FOR THERAPEUTIC ULTRASOUND

A device including a focused ultrasound probe, a first balloon, and a second balloon. The first balloon can be located at least partially inside the second balloon. The inner balloon can be configured to act as a fluid interface, a mechanism for cooling, and a mechanism for changing tissue depth of a focal point of the probe. The second balloon can be filed with a thermosensitive hydrogel configured to turn from a fluid at room temperature to a gel at physiologic temperatures. The first and second balloons can be configured to create a fluid interface between the probe and targeted tissue of a patient. 1. A system for delivering ultrasound therapy , the system comprising:a focused ultrasound probe including a transducer; anda balloon complex including a first balloon and a second balloon, the first balloon being located inside the second balloon and surrounding the transducer, the first balloon containing a first fluid, the first fluid being a non-gaseous fluid, the second balloon containing a second fluid, the second fluid being thermosensitive hydrogel, the thermosensitive hydrogel transforming from a fluid at room temperature to a gel at a higher temperature, the first and second balloons creating a fluid interface between the probe and targeted tissue of a patient.2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the thermosensitive hydrogel immobilizes the first balloon relative to the second balloon and the second balloon relative to surrounding tissue of the patient.3. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the first balloon acts as a fluid interface claim 1 , a mechanism for cooling claim 1 , and a mechanism for changing tissue depth of a focal point of the probe.4. The system according to claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the probe is positioned within the first balloon claim 1 , and wherein the first and second balloons stabilize the probe with respect to the targeted tissue.5. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the transducer includes at least ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FOCUSING OF HIGH INTENSITY FOCUSED ULTRASOUND BASED ON MAGNETIC RESONANCE - ACOUSTIC RADIATION FORCE IMAGING FEEDBACK

A system and method for focusing ultrasound into a target tissue is disclosed. The method calculates a pressure field for an array of transducer elements to generate an unaberrated pressure field matrix and causes the transducer elements to apply focused ultrasound to generate a respective aberrated pressure field at a focus location in a target tissue and surrounding volume. MR-ARFI images are acquired of the focus location and surrounding volume, a magnitude of the aberrated pressure field is measured that is generated by the applied focused ultrasound at respective focus locations in the target tissue and surrounding volume based on the MR-ARFI images, an aberration for the transducer elements is determined from the pressure field matrix and the MR-ARFI images of the focus location and the surrounding volume using a magnitude least-squares method, and a corrective phase/amplitude adjustment is applied to the transducer elements based on the determined aberrations. 1. A system for focusing ultrasound into a target tissue of a subject , the system comprising:a phased array of ultrasound transducer elements configured to generate an ultrasound focus in the target tissue;a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system having a plurality of gradient coils positioned about a bore of a magnet, and an RF transceiver system and an RF switch controlled by a pulse module to transmit RF signals to an RF coil assembly to acquire MR images; and calculate a pressure field for each transducer element in the phased array of ultrasound transducer elements to generate an unaberrated pressure field matrix;', 'cause the phased array of ultrasound transducer elements to apply focused ultrasound to the ROI, wherein application of focused ultrasound by each transducer element of the phased array of ultrasound transducer elements generates a respective aberrated pressure field at a focus location in the target tissue and in a volume surrounding the focus location;', 'cause the MRI system to ...

Dual mode ultrasound transducer (dmut) system and method for controlling delivery of ultrasound therapy

A dual-mode ultrasound system provides real-time imaging and therapy delivery using the same transducer elements of a transducer array. The system may use a multi-channel driver to drive the elements of the array. The system uses a real-time monitoring and feedback image control of the therapy based on imaging data acquired using the dual-mode ultrasound array (DMUA) of transducer elements. Further, for example, multi-modal coded excitation may be used in both imaging and therapy modes. Still further, for example, adaptive, real-time refocusing for improved imaging and therapy can be achieved using, for example, array directivity vectors obtained from DMUA pulse-echo data.

Methods and systems for generating an occlusion using ultrasound

An intra-cavity ultrasound imaging and therapy system is provided. The system includes an intra-cavity ultrasound probe including a housing configure to be inserted into a cavity proximate to a region of interest (ROI). The housing includes a transducer array located proximate to a distal end of the housing. The system also includes a diagnostic control circuit configured to direct the transducer array to collect diagnostic ultrasound signals from the ROI. The diagnostic control circuit is configured to generate an ultrasound image based on the diagnostic ultrasound signals. The diagnostic control circuit is further configured to direct the transducer array to deliver a high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) therapy at a treatment location based on target information derived from the ultrasound image.

ULTRASONIC TREATMENT DEVICE

A probe () transmits and receives diagnostic ultrasound and therapeutic ultrasound. A transmission unit () forms a transmission beam of the therapeutic ultrasound having a higher wave number than the diagnostic ultrasound and scans the transmission beam of the therapeutic ultrasound in a therapeutic region set inside a diagnostic region by controlling the probe (). Since the therapeutic ultrasound having a higher wave number than the diagnostic ultrasound is used, the therapeutic effect is higher than when using a therapeutic ultrasound having a similar wave number to the diagnostic ultrasound, and since the transmission beam of the therapeutic ultrasound is scanned in the therapeutic region, the therapeutic effect is higher than when the transmission beam of the therapeutic ultrasound is not scanned. 1. An ultrasonic treatment device comprising:a probe that transmits and receives ultrasound;a transmission unit that scans a transmission beam of diagnostic ultrasound in a diagnostic region by controlling the probe;a receiving unit that obtains a received signal of diagnostic ultrasound along a receiving beam corresponding to the transmission beam of diagnostic ultrasound; andan image-forming unit that forms an ultrasound image of the diagnostic region based on the received signal of diagnostic ultrasound, whereinthe transmission unit forms a transmission beam of therapeutic ultrasound by controlling the probe, and scans the transmission beam of therapeutic ultrasound within a treatment region which is set to be in the diagnostic region.2. The ultrasonic treatment device according to claim 1 , whereinthe transmission unit forms a transmission beam of therapeutic ultrasound having a larger wavenumber than that of diagnostic ultrasound, and scans the transmission beam of therapeutic ultrasound within the treatment region which is set to be in the diagnostic region.3. The ultrasonic treatment device according to claim 1 , whereinthe transmission unit controls the probe ...

SYSTEM FOR SKIN CANCER TREATMENT USING LOW INTENSITY ULTRASOUND

The present invention relates to a system for skin cancer treatment using low intensity ultrasound. The system comprises an ultrasound transducer, a temperature sensing unit, and a control unit. The temperature sensing unit measures the temperature of the skin being exposed to ultrasound and provides temperature data to the control unit, which controls the ultrasound transducer accordingly. 1. A system for skin cancer treatment in a subject using low intensity ultrasound , comprising:(a) an ultrasound transducer, wherein the ultrasound transducer has a skin-contacting surface pre-formed to conform to the skin containing the cancer;(b) a temperature sensing unit coupled to the ultrasound transducer, wherein the temperature sensing unit measures the temperature of the skin being treated with ultrasound; and(c) a control unit coupled to the ultrasound transducer and the temperature sensing unit, wherein the control unit receives temperature data from the temperature sensing unit, and wherein the control unit controls the ultrasound transducer as a function of the temperature data.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the control unit controls ultrasound intensity at the focal zone produced by the ultrasound transducer as a function of the temperature data.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the temperature sensing unit comprises one or more temperature sensors.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the temperature sensor is a contact-type temperature sensor.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the contact-type temperature sensor is a thermistor or a thermocouple.6. The system of claim 3 , wherein the temperature sensor is a non-contact temperature sensor.7. The system of claim 6 , wherein the non-contact temperature sensor is an infrared sensor.8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the ultrasound transducer can produce ultrasound at a frequency between about 27 kHz and 2.2 MHz.9. The system of claim 1 , wherein the ultrasound transducer can produce ultrasound intensity at the focal ...

Acoustic device for skin treatment and methods of using the same

Methods of treating the skin and in particular removing pigment from a tattoo are provided. In preferred embodiments, a piezoelectric transducer is placed at a plurality of locations above the skin and focused acoustic waves at 7 MHz or more are transmitted into the skin. The focal point of the focused acoustic waves is between 0.1 mm and 5 mm below the surface of the skin. The design of the piezoelectric transducer along with the frequency of operation are carefully chosen to create points of treatment with a desired size and shape. The correct amount of energy is supplied to the points of treatment to produce a lesion of a desired size and shape. The lesions are spaced and located to effect the treatment of the skin.

Method and apparatus for the treatment of tissue

A method and apparatus is disclosed for determining the success of a proposed HIFU Treatment, of an ongoing HIFU Treatment, and/or of a completed HIFU Treatment. An energy density of a given HIFU Treatment may be used as a comparison factor between the given HIFU Treatment and other HIFU Treatments and as a predictor of the success of the given HIFU Treatment. One exemplary energy density is the amount of energy deposited in the treatment region divided by the volume of the treatment region. Another exemplary energy density is the amount of energy deposited in the treatment region divided by the pre-treatment mass of the treatment region. A method and apparatus is disclosed to detect the presence of focal hyperechoic features and non-focal hyperechoic features. A method and apparatus is disclosed to detect the presence of an acoustic obstruction.

Ultrasonic Lesion Feedback, Antipop Monitoring, and Force Detection

An ablation catheter comprises: an elongated catheter body extending longitudinally between a proximal end and a distal end along a longitudinal axis; a distal member disposed adjacent the distal end, the distal member including an ablation element to ablate a biological member; one or more acoustic transducers disposed in the distal member and each configured to direct an acoustic signal toward a respective target ablation region and receive reflection echoes therefrom; and an acoustic redirection member disposed in the distal member to at least partially redirect the acoustic signal from at least one of the acoustic transducers toward a tissue target. The distal member includes a most-distal portion, a proximal portion, and a deflectable portion between the most-distal portion and proximal portion to permit deflection between the most-distal portion and proximal portion of the distal member. The transducers and redirection member are mounted on opposite sides of the deflectable portion. 113-. (canceled)14. An acoustic monitoring method for an ablation procedure using an ablation catheter which includes an elongated catheter body extending longitudinally between a proximal end and a distal end along a longitudinal axis; a distal member disposed adjacent the distal end , the distal member including an ablation element to ablate a biological member at a target region outside the elongated catheter body; one or more acoustic transducers disposed in the distal member and each configured to direct an acoustic signal toward a respective target ablation region and receive reflection echoes therefrom; and an acoustic redirection member disposed in the distal member to at least partially redirect the acoustic signal from at least one of the one or more acoustic transducers toward a tissue target; wherein the distal member includes a most-distal portion , a proximal portion , and a deflectable portion between the most-distal portion and the proximal portion to permit ...

INTRALUMINAL METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ABLATING NERVE TISSUE

Methods and apparatus for treating gastroesophageal reflex and other luminal conditions provide for delivering acoustic energy to a body lumen to remodel tissue surrounding the body lumen. In the case of treating GERD, a catheter carrying an ultrasonic or other vibrational transducer is introduced to the lower esophageal sphincter, and acoustic energy is delivered to the sphincter in order to tighten or bulk the sphincter such that reflex is reduced. 1. A minimally-invasive intraluminal ablation device configured to ablate nerve tissue surrounding a bodily lumen of a subject , the minimally-invasive intraluminal ablation device comprising:a catheter comprising a distal end, a proximal end, and an interior fluid passage;a cylindrical ultrasonic transducer disposed along the distal end of the catheter, the cylindrical ultrasonic transducer comprising an integral circumferential arrangement machined into the cylindrical ultrasonic transducer to form an end region and a center region of the cylindrical ultrasonic transducer, wherein the end region is thinner than the center region of the cylindrical ultrasonic transducer; andan inflatable balloon disposed along the distal end of the catheter to surround the cylindrical ultrasonic transducer, the inflatable balloon configured to receive a cooling fluid circulating through an interior of the inflatable balloon via the interior fluid passage of the catheter when the cylindrical ultrasonic transducer is energized.2. The minimally-invasive intraluminal ablation device of claim 1 , wherein the distal end of the catheter is configured to be delivered intraluminally to the bodily lumen.3. The minimally-invasive intraluminal ablation device of claim 1 , wherein the cylindrical ultrasonic transducer further comprises a central lumen within the cylindrical ultrasonic transducer claim 1 , the central lumen configured to receive cooling fluid introduced to the inflatable balloon through the Interior fluid passage of the catheter.4. ...

ULTRASOUND DEVICE FOR SONOTHROMBOLYSIS THERAPY

A medical imaging system configured to provide cardiac sonothrombolysis therapy is disclosed. Various embodiments of portable cardiac sonothrombolysis devices are disclosed. The devices may be configured to determine if one or more ultrasound probes have a proper view of the heart, and if not, may steer the beam to a desired location. The ultrasound probes may be configured for both imaging and cardiac sonothrombolysis therapy. The ultrasound probes may be configured to be hands-free. The portable devices may be configured to provide operating instructions to an operator. The instructions may be provided via graphics, audio, and/or video. 1. A medical imaging system , comprising:an ultrasound probe configured to acquire a signal and deliver a low power ultrasound therapy, wherein the ultrasound probe comprises an adhesive configured to removably couple the ultrasound probe to a surface;an image processor configured to receive the signal from the ultrasound probe;a heart recognition processor configured to determine if the ultrasound probe has a desired view of a heart, based, at least in part, on data received from the image processor; anda transmit controller configured to steer a beam of the ultrasound probe and control delivery of the low power ultrasound therapy.2. The medical imaging system of claim 1 , further comprising a blockage detector processor configured to provide instructions to the transmit controller to steer the beam based claim 1 , at least in part claim 1 , on a determination that an object is blocking a field of view of the ultrasound probe.3. The medical imaging system of claim 1 , wherein the heart recognition processor is further configured to provide instructions to the transmit controller to steer the beam based claim 1 , at least in part claim 1 , on determining the ultrasound probe does not have the desired view of the heart.4. The medical imaging system of claim 1 , wherein the low power ultrasound therapy includes a pulse between 5-200 ...

WEARABLE TRANSCRANIAL DUAL-MODE ULTRASOUND TRANSDUCERS FOR NEUROMODULATION

An ultrasound transducer array is incorporated in a light-weight, conformable, and wearable patch that may be used to deliver, monitor, and control localized transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS). The patch may include full-duplex transmit-receive circuitry that may be used for continuous monitoring of transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS) application. The circuitry may include a circulator. The ultrasound transducer array may be coupled to an aperture interface having irregularly sized or shaped channel conductors to provide a coarse aperture for the array. The coarse aperture may be designed using a method that provides a reduced channel count. 1. An ultrasound transducer system comprising:an ultrasound transducer configured to provide a transmit ultrasound wavefront in response to an excitation waveform and to provide a reflection waveform in response to a reflected ultrasound wavefront; and a first port configured to receive an excitation waveform from a transmit circuit;', provide the excitation waveform to the ultrasound transducer to provide a transmit ultrasound wavefront, and', 'receive a reflection waveform from the ultrasound transducer corresponding to a reflection of the transmit ultrasound wavefront during or after providing the excitation waveform; and, 'a second port configured to, 'a third port configured to provide the reflection waveform to a receive circuit during or after receiving the excitation waveform from the transmit circuit., 'a circulator operably coupled to the ultrasound transducer, the circulator comprising2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a lens layer coupled to the ultrasound transducer and configured to partially or completely compensate for a predetermined ultrasound beam distortion associated with an ultrasound obstacle claim 1 , wherein the lens layer is positioned to receive the transmit ultrasound wavefront from the ultrasound transducer.3. The system of claim 1 , further comprising an aperture layer coupled to ...

COMPOSITIONS, METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR GAS VESICLE BASED CAVITATION

The system and process of therapeutic and effective cavitation by using ultrasound to collapse gas vesicles as well as cavitate the bubbles produced from the collapsed gas vesicles. Therapeutic effect includes, but is not limited to lysing cells by cavitation. The cells expressing the gas vesicles can optionally be used as delivery cells to preform tasks such as transporting the gas vesicles into deep tissue areas, releasing compounds at the cavitation site, and more. The gas vesicles can optionally be modified to facilitate getting the bubbles near the cavitation targets by functionalizing the gas vesicles. 1. An ultrasound pressure-based method comprising:delivering a gas vesicle (GV) to a target site, the GV having a GV type collapse threshold pressure;setting an ultrasound generation system to produce ultrasound pulses having a positive pressure set above the GV type collapse threshold pressure, a negative pressure and at least one of: a duty cycle above 0.2% or a mechanical index above 2.8; andapplying the ultrasound pulses to the target site, thus:collapsing the GV by the positive pressure of the ultrasound pulses, thereby forming gas bubbles; anddriving the cavitation of the gas bubbles by the negative pressure.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising imaging the target site before applying the ultrasound pulses.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the imaging comprises one of ultrasound imaging or MRI.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the imaging comprising using the GV as a contrast agent.5. The method of claim 2 , further comprising imaging the target site after applying the ultrasound pulse.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the ultrasound pulses are applied with a center frequency no greater than 2.5 MHz.7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the ultrasound pulses have a mechanical index above 0.12.8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the ultrasound pulses have a mechanical index above 2.8.9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the GV is a plurality of GVs.10. ...

Simplified, Interactive, Real-Time Ultrasound Biofeedback System for Speech Remediation

Systems and methods for an enhanced ultrasound biofeedback therapy for an improved speech remediation treatment for an individual include transmitting a plurality of ultrasound (US) waves toward a tongue of the individual; receiving a plurality of reflected US waves; converting the plurality of reflected US waves into a plurality of US signals to transmit to an ultrasound machine; and generating one or more enhanced images of the tongue at least partially based on the US signals in real-time, the enhanced images including identified Regions of Interest (ROIs) along tongue sub-parts comprising the tongue root, the tongue dorsum, and the tongue blade and respective ROI points identified therein. An interactive visual story is generated and updated in real-time with a tongue-mapping trajectory of the individual on a display based on the enhanced one or more images to determine a successful or unsuccessful sound production. 1. A system for an enhanced ultrasound biofeedback therapy for an improved speech remediation treatment for an individual through an improved user interface , the system comprising:one or more processors;one or more memory modules communicatively coupled to the one or more processors;an ultrasound machine comprising a display and communicatively coupled to the one or more memory modules;a probe device communicatively coupled to the ultrasound machine, the probe device comprising a transducer;a user interface module communicatively coupled to the display of the ultrasound machine, the improved user interface of a computing device, or both; and transmit a plurality of ultrasound (US) waves from the probe device toward a tongue of the individual along a mid-sagittal plane from below a jaw area of the individual;', 'receive, into the transducer of the probe device, a plurality of reflected US waves;', 'convert, via the probe device, the plurality of reflected US waves into a plurality of US signals;', 'transmit, via the probe device, the plurality of US ...

RENAL INJURY INHIBITING DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS EMPLOYING LOW-FREQUENCY ULTRASOUND OR OTHER CYCLICAL PRESSURE ENERGIES

Improved devices, systems, and methods treatment of patients can be used to help mitigate injury to the kidneys by applying cyclical mechanical pressure energy at low intensities. The energy often be selectively directed from non-invasive transducers disposed outside the patients. The energy will typically comprise low frequency ultrasound energy, shock wave energy, or the like, and may induce the generation and/or release of nitric oxide, thereby enhancing perfusion and ameliorating tissue damage. Superimposed micro and macro duty cycles may help avoid thermal and other injury to tissues of the patient during treatment. Bilateral treatments are facilitated by a support structure that orients at least one transducer toward each kidney. 1. A method for treating a dialysis patient , the patient including a kidney and being subjected to a plurality of dialysis procedures associated with injury of the kidney , the method comprising:transmitting cyclical mechanical pressure energy having a frequency in a range from about 20 kHz to about 500 kHz selectively to the kidney;the cyclical mechanical pressure energy being transmitted to the kidney for a plurality of treatment time periods, each of the plurality of treatment time periods overlapping with a time period of an associated dialysis procedure so that the progressive loss of kidney function is inhibited.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the cyclical mechanical pressure energy is transmitted non-invasively from a transducer to the kidney while the transducer is disposed outside the patient.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the cyclical mechanical pressure energy transmitted to the kidney has a frequency between about 20 kHz and about 50 kHz.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the patient includes a second kidney claim 1 , the method further comprising transmitting cyclical mechanical pressure energy having a frequency in a range from about 20 kHz to about 500 kHz selectively to the second kidney claim 1 , the cyclical ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR THE TREATMENT OF TISSUE

A method and apparatus is disclosed for determining the success of a proposed HIFU Treatment, of an ongoing HIFU Treatment, and/or of a completed HIFU Treatment. An energy density of a given HIFU Treatment may be used as a comparison factor between the given HIFU Treatment and other HIFU Treatments and as a predictor of the success of the given HIFU Treatment. One exemplary energy density is the amount of energy deposited in the treatment region divided by the volume of the treatment region. Another exemplary energy density is the amount of energy deposited in the treatment region divided by the pre-treatment mass of the treatment region. A method and apparatus is disclosed to detect the presence of focal hyperechoic features and non-focal hyperechoic features. A method and apparatus is disclosed to detect the presence of an acoustic obstruction. 147-. (canceled)48. An apparatus configured to provide treatment to a region of tissue , the apparatus comprising:a transducer configured to be positioned proximate to the tissue and to administer high intensity focused ultrasound (“HIFU”) therapy to at least a region of the tissue, the transducer being configured to operate in at least an imaging mode and in a therapy mode, in the imaging mode the transducer being configured to provide a visual representation of at least a portion of the tissue, in the therapy mode the transducer being configured to treat a plurality of treatment sites with HIFU therapy; anda controller operably coupled to the transducer, the controller being configured to operate the transducer in at least the imaging mode and the therapy mode, the controller being configured to determine prior to commencement of a HIFU treatment whether the HIFU treatment should be successful in treating the tissue based on an energy density of energy planned to be deposited into the treatment region.49. The apparatus of claim 48 , wherein the transducer is configured to provide a visual representation of at least a ...

METHODS FOR FACE AND NECK LIFTS

Methods for treating skin and subcutaneous tissue with energy such as ultrasound energy are disclosed. In various embodiments, ultrasound energy is applied at a region of interest to affect tissue by cutting, ablating, micro-ablating, coagulating, or otherwise affecting the subcutaneous tissue to conduct numerous procedures that are traditionally done invasively in a non-invasive manner. Methods of lifting sagging tissue on a face and/or neck are described. 1acoustically coupling an ultrasound probe system to a skin surface on a brow, the ultrasound probe system comprising an imaging element, a therapy element, and a motion mechanism;wherein the motion mechanism is controlled by a control system in communication with the ultrasound probe;using the ultrasound imaging element to image a region of interest under said skin surface at a fixed depth, the region of interest comprising a tissue comprising a portion of at least one of muscular fascia, fat, and SMAS tissue;wherein the region of interest at said fixed depth is displayed on a display system, said display system being electronically connected to said ultrasound imaging element;using the ultrasound therapy element to treat said region of interest;wherein the therapy element is coupled to the motion mechanism within the probe;wherein the therapy element is configured for targeted delivery of ablative ultrasound energy to form a thermal lesion with at least a temperature sufficient to treat at least a portion of the tissue at the fixed depth of up to about 9 mm from the skin surface; andactivating the motion mechanism within the probe to form a plurality of said thermal lesions along a line at the fixed depth into said tissue to cause any one of the group consisting of ablation, deactivation, and shrinkage of at least a portion of the tissue,wherein the plurality of thermal lesions facilitates a tightening of the tissue that leads to a brow lift.. A method of treating a sagging brow, the method comprising: This ...

SIMULATION-BASED FOCUSED-ULTRASOUND TREATMENT PLANNING

A focused-ultrasound or other procedure for treating a target within a tissue region can be planned iteratively by creating a treatment plan specifying a treatment location pattern and stimuli applied thereto, simulating the treatment, computationally predicting an effect of the simulated treatment, comparing the predicted effect against one or more treatment constraints (such as efficacy and/or safety thresholds), and, if a constraint is violated, repeating the simulation for an adjusted treatment plan. 1. A method of planning focused-ultrasound treatment of a target tissue within a tissue region , the method comprising:(a) creating a treatment plan at least in part by specifying (i) a focus pattern corresponding to at least a subregion of the target tissue and (ii) temporally variable ultrasound stimuli to be applied sequentially along the focus pattern;(b) simulating treatment in accordance with the plan at least in part by computationally traversing the focus pattern and computationally applying the temporally variable ultrasound stimuli thereto;(c) computationally predicting an effect of the simulated treatment based, at least in part, on a physical model computationally modeling propagation of the effect;(d) comparing the predicted effect against at least one treatment constraint; and(e) if the at least one treatment constraint is violated, altering the treatment plan and repeating steps (b) through (e) for the altered treatment plan.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:(f) using a treatment device to conduct a first portion of the treatment in accordance with a first portion of the treatment plan;(g) experimentally monitoring the effect of the conducted treatment;(h) comparing the experimentally monitored treatment effect with the predicted treatment effect; and(i) upon detection of a discrepancy between the experimentally monitored treatment effect and the predicted treatment effect, adjusting the physical model and revising the treatment plan based ...

Noninvasive transvaginal acoustic thermal treatment of female stress urinary incontinence

Systems and methods for transvaginal high intensity concentrated ultrasound. Urinary incontinence is treated through application of high intensity ultrasound to tissue structures to affect a change in the tissue.

Methods for face and neck lifts

Methods for treating skin and subcutaneous tissue with energy such as ultrasound energy are disclosed. In various embodiments, ultrasound energy is applied at a region of interest to affect tissue by cutting, ablating, micro-ablating, coagulating, or otherwise affecting the subcutaneous tissue to conduct numerous procedures that are traditionally done invasively in a non-invasive manner. Methods of lifting sagging tissue on a face and/or neck are described.

INTERLEAVED BEAM PATTERN FOR SONOTHHROMBOLYSIS AND OTHER VASCULAR ACOUSTIC RESONATOR MEDIATED THERAPIES

A therapeutic ultrasound system transmits a staggered or interleaved pattern of therapy beams for use in sonothrombolysis and other Vascular Acoustic Resonators (VAR) mediated therapy. The inventive technique minimizes VAR, e.g. microbubble, destruction due to adjacent beams, ensures uniform sonication of the targeted region by filling in the spaces between the beams in subsequent passes, and further provides a means for bubble replenishment to maximize the clot lysis from ultrasound. The technique is also applicable to diagnostic ultrasound, VAR mediated drug delivery and blood brain barrier opening. 1. An ultrasound system for insonifying a region of interest containing vascular acoustic resonators (VARs) with spatially interleaved patterns of ultrasound beams comprising:an ultrasound array arranged to transmit ultrasound therapy beams into the region of interest; anda transmit controller coupled to the array and arranged to control steering of the therapy beams in a plurality of sequential patterns, wherein each subsequent in time pattern comprises of beam areas which are spatially interleaved between beam areas of the previous pattern.2. The ultrasound system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of sequential patterns comprises a first pattern of ultrasound therapy beams being separated from each other by spaces according to a predetermined spacing claim 1 , anda second pattern of ultrasound therapy beams steered to the spaces separating the beams of the first beam pattern from each other.3. The ultrasound system of claim 2 , wherein the plurality of sequential patterns further comprises a third pattern of ultrasound therapy beams which are spatially interleaved between the beams of the first and second beam patterns.4. The ultrasound system of claim 3 , wherein the plurality of sequential patterns further comprises a fourth pattern of ultrasound therapy beams that are spatially interleaved between the beams of the first claim 3 , second and third beam patterns.5. ...

TRANSDUCER ASSEMBLY FOR GENERATING FOCUSED ULTRASOUND

Systems and devices are provided for generating focused ultrasound pulses based on a transducer assembly having a piezoelectric layer coupled to an acoustic lens. In some example embodiments, the piezoelectric layer is a composite piezoelectric material having an acoustic impedance configured to match the acoustic impedance of the acoustic lens. The acoustic lens may be formed from aluminum, or an alloy thereof, and may have a distal surface having a non-spherical profile for producing a focal region that is smaller than an equivalent spherical lens. The acoustic lens may have an f-number less than unity. In some embodiments, the acoustic lens is coated with a polymer acoustic impedance matching layer that is compatible with deposition via chemical vapor deposition, such as a p-xylylene based polymer. In some embodiments, the acoustic lens is formed from aluminum or an alloy thereof, and the polymer acoustic impedance matching layer is a Parylene layer. 1. An ultrasound transducer assembly for generating focused ultrasound , the ultrasound transducer assembly comprising:a piezoelectric layer;an acoustic lens having a proximal surface and a curved distal surface, wherein the proximal surface is attached to the piezoelectric layer; andan acoustic impedance matching layer coating the curved distal surface of the acoustic lens;wherein an acoustic impedance of the piezoelectric layer approximately matches an acoustic impedance of the acoustic lens.2. The ultrasound transducer assembly according to wherein the acoustic lens comprises aluminum.3. The ultrasound transducer assembly according to wherein the acoustic lens is formed from an aluminum alloy.4. The ultrasound transducer assembly according to wherein the acoustic lens comprises at least 85% aluminum by weight.5. The ultrasound transducer assembly according to wherein the curved distal surface of the acoustic lens is non-spherical.6. The ultrasound transducer assembly according to wherein the curved distal surface ...

Hyperthermia for diagnostic imaging

The present invention provides a diagnostic imaging system ( 100 ), comprising a magnetic resonance (MR) imaging system ( 110 ) for providing an image representation of at least a portion of a subject of interest ( 120 ) positioned in an examination space ( 116 ), a hyperthermia device ( 111 ) for locally heating a target zone within the portion of the subject of interest ( 120 ), and a control unit ( 126 ) for controlling the MR imaging system ( 110 ) and the hyperthermia device ( 111 ), wherein the diagnostic imaging system ( 100 ) is adapted to provide a diagnostic image representation of the portion of the subject of interest ( 120 ) by correlating image representations obtained at different temperatures of the target zone, wherein the diagnostic image representation comprises information on temperature dependent changes of the metabolism of the subject of interest ( 120 ). The invention further provides a treatment system comprising the above diagnostic imaging system ( 100 ), a treatment module ( 146 ) for applying a treatment to the subject of interest ( 120 ) for destroying cells within the target zone, and a control module ( 126 ) for controlling the treatment module ( 146 ) for applying the treatment based on diagnostic image representations obtained by the diagnostic imaging system ( 100 ). Accordingly, changes of the metabolism of the subject of interest can be evaluated to direct a treatment to such areas, where the cells have not yet been destroyed as desired. By comparing the difference of the above measurements between the first and the second temperature, the efficiency of the treatment can be evaluated and the further treatment can be adapted based on the metabolism changes.

High-intensity focused ultrasound irradiation

The present invention provides n ultrasonic treatment device ( 10 ) for heating a portion of a subject of interest, comprising a ultrasonic irradiation unit ( 12 ) for generating high-intensity focused ultrasonic irradiation, whereby a beam path of the ultrasonic irradiation is movable along a trajectory for depositing ultrasonic energy within a target zone ( 22 ) of the subject of interest, and a control unit ( 20 ) for controlling the ultrasonic irradiation unit ( 12 ) to move the beam path of the ultrasonic irradiation along the trajectory and to apply an ultrasonic dose to the target zone ( 22 ), wherein the control unit ( 20 ) is adapted to receive temperature information of the target zone ( 22 ) and to control the ultrasonic irradiation unit ( 12 ) based on the received temperature information, and the control unit ( 20 ) is adapted to control the ultrasonic irradiation unit ( 12 ) based on the temperature of a current ( 26 ) and at least one previous direction ( 28 ) of the beam path of the ultrasonic irradiation along the trajectory. The invention further provides a corresponding method for ultrasonic treatment and an ultrasonic treatment system, comprising the above ultrasonic treatment device ( 10 ) and a diagnostic imaging device for providing temperature information of a target zone ( 22 ) of the subject of interest, wherein the control unit ( 20 ) of the ultrasonic treatment device ( 10 ) is adapted to receive the temperature information from the diagnostic imaging device. By looking at the temperature or a thermal dose distribution along a previous direction of the beam path of the ultrasonic irradiation along the trajectory where the heating has been completed, an improved control of the treatment is achieved. Even if this previous sonication was different to the one currently applied, it represents a good indicator of the tissue and ultrasound system behavior.

ULTRASONIC TREATMENT APPARATUS

An ultrasonic treatment apparatus includes a movement unit moving in accordance with at least one of an acting state of a load to a treatment section from a jaw and an opening angle of the jaw relative to the treatment section, a movement detector detecting a moving state of the movement unit, and a peak detecting section detecting a target peak of an ultrasonic impedance value. The ultrasonic treatment apparatus includes a control section controlling the peak detecting section to a detection disallowed state where a detection of the target peak is not executed when the movement unit is not placed within a prescribed range based on a detection result in the movement detector. 1. An ultrasonic treatment apparatus comprising:an electric power source configured to output a vibration generating electric power;an ultrasonic transducer configured to generate an ultrasonic vibration by the vibration generating electric power from the electric power source;a treatment section which is configured to perform a treatment by use of the ultrasonic vibration generated in the ultrasonic transducer;a jaw that is openable and closable relative to the treatment sectionan opening or closing operation input section to which an opening or closing operation to open or close the jaw is input;a movement unit configured to open or close the jaw by movement in accordance with the opening or closing operation in the opening or closing operation input sectiona movement detector which is configured to detect the movement of the movement unit;an impedance detecting section which is configured to detect an ultrasonic impedance value of the ultrasonic transducera peak judging section which is configured to detect a peak of the ultrasonic impedance value on the basis of detection results of changes with time of the ultrasonic impedance value anda control section which is configured to perform, on the basis of detection results in the movement detector and detection results in the peak judging ...

AUTOMATICALLY STEERING AND FOCUSING THERAPEUTIC ULTRASOUND SYSTEMS

A system for therapeutic ultrasound includes one or more ultrasound transducer modules that are configured to generate ultrasound waves at a first power level and at a second power level, the first and second power levels being different and the second power level being sufficient to provide a therapeutic effect for a living subject, and an electronic controller in communication with the one or more ultrasound transducer modules, the electronic controller being programmed to cause the one or more ultrasound transducer modules to generate a first ultrasound wave at the first power level and detect a reflected ultrasound wave from the subject in response to the first ultrasound wave, determine a location of a target within the subject based on the detected reflected ultrasound wave, and, after determining the location of the target, generate a second ultrasound wave at the second power level focused at the target. 1. A therapeutic ultrasound system , comprising:one or more ultrasound transducer modules that are configured to generate ultrasound waves at a first power level and at a second power level, the first and second power levels being different and the second power level being sufficient to provide a therapeutic effect for a living subject; andan electronic controller in communication with the one or more ultrasound transducer modules, the electronic controller being programmed to cause the one or more ultrasound transducer modules to generate a first ultrasound wave at the first power level and detect a reflected ultrasound wave from the subject in response to the first ultrasound wave, determine a location of a target within the subject based on the detected reflected ultrasound wave, and, after determining the location of the target, generate a second ultrasound wave at the second power level focused at the target.2. The therapeutic ultrasound system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more ultrasound transducer modules are housed in at least one of a wrist brace ...

Control of exogenous agent characteristics in microbubble-mediated ultrasound procedures

Various approaches for microbubble-enhanced ultrasound treatment of target tissue include retrieving a treatment plan stored in memory; causing administration of an exogenous agent in accordance with the treatment plan; causing, in accordance with the treatment plan, an ultrasound transducer to transmit ultrasound waves to the target tissue and generate a focus therein in the presence of administered exogenous agent; receiving, from a monitoring system, a measured parameter value indicating a treatment condition in response to administration of the exogenous agent and transmission of the ultrasound waves during treatment; and adjusting the treatment plan based at least in part on the measured parameter value.

Method and apparatus for delivery of agents across the blood brain barrier

We describe a method for opening the blood-brain barrier (BBB) using ultrasound and preformed microbubbles. With this method, diagnostic or therapeutic agents may be administered to the brain. This method can open a focal region of the BBB and administer agents in a targeted fashion or the method can open large regions (or the entirety) of the brain for more global administration of agents. In one embodiment, the method can be used to administer contrast agents (e.g., agents that increase or decrease the magnetic resonance imaging signal) to the brain and thereby improve the quality or information content of imaging data. In another embodiment, a standard clinical diagnostic ultrasound scanner can be used to open specific regions of the BBB and administer diagnostic or therapeutic agents. Importantly, this invention can open the BBB in a non-destructive/non-invasive fashion, allowing the subject to be awake and suffer no detectable side effects.

Energy delivery to intraparenchymal regions of the kidney

A method to apply a nerve inhibiting cloud surrounding a blood vessel includes creating a treatment plan, wherein the treatment plan prescribes application of the nerve inhibiting cloud towards at least a majority portion of a circumference of a blood vessel wall, and applying the nerve inhibiting cloud towards the majority portion of the circumference of the blood vessel wall for a time sufficient to inhibit a function of a nerve that surrounds the blood vessel wall.

Intravascular energy delivery

A method to apply a nerve inhibiting cloud surrounding a blood vessel includes creating a treatment plan, wherein the treatment plan prescribes application of the nerve inhibiting cloud towards at least a majority portion of a circumference of a blood vessel wall, and applying the nerve inhibiting cloud towards the majority portion of the circumference of the blood vessel wall for a time sufficient to inhibit a function of a nerve that surrounds the blood vessel wall.

Ultrasound based method and apparatus for stone detection and to facilitate clearance thereof

Described herein are methods and apparatus for detecting stones by ultrasound, in which the ultrasound reflections from a stone are preferentially selected and accentuated relative to the ultrasound reflections from blood or tissue. Also described herein are methods and apparatus for applying pushing ultrasound to in vivo stones or other objects, to facilitate the removal of such in vivo objects.

Method and apparatus for therapeutic treatment of skin with ultrasound

A method and apparatus of reducing human skin wrinkles, including applying a focused ultrasound beam to a region of human skin to stimulate or irritate a dermis layer in the region of the skin without adversely damaging an epidermis layer in the region of the skin so as to cause a change in the dermis layer of the skin that results in a change in a smoothness of the epidermis layer of the skin. In particular, relatively low power, low frequency focused ultrasound is applied to the dermis layer for a period of time sufficient to cause a biological response in the body wherein the biological response causes synthesis and/or production of new connective tissue that results in reduction or elimination of human skin wrinkles.

Method and apparatus for therapeutic treatment of skin with ultrasound

A method and apparatus of reducing human skin wrinkles, including applying a focused ultrasound beam to a region of human skin to stimulate or irritate a dermis layer in the region of the skin without adversely damaging an epidermis layer in the region of the skin so as to cause a change in the dermis layer of the skin that results in a change in a smoothness of the epidermis layer of the skin. In particular, relatively low power, low frequency focused ultrasound is applied to the dermis layer for a period of time sufficient to cause a biological response in the body wherein the biological response causes synthesis and/or production of new connective tissue that results in reduction or elimination of human skin wrinkles.

Method and apparatus for therapeutic treatment of skin with ultrasound

A method and apparatus of reducing human skin wrinkles, including applying a focused ultrasound beam to a region of human skin to stimulate or irritate a dermis layer in the region of the skin without adversely damaging an epidermis layer in the region of the skin so as to cause a change in the dermis layer of the skin that results in a change in a smoothness of the epidermis layer of the skin. In particular, relatively low power, low frequency focused ultrasound is applied to the dermis layer for a period of time sufficient to cause a biological response in the body wherein the biological response causes synthesis and/or production of new connective tissue that results in reduction or elimination of human skin wrinkles.

Trigger point treatment method, system, and device for neuromusculoskeletal pain

A trigger point treatment system for treating a patient, includes a cart, including a display; a trigger point scanning device with a scanning probe, and a trigger point massage therapy device, including a pressure point tip, a pressure sensor component, and an actual pressure indicator. A method of trigger point treatment includes scanning for myofascial trigger points, including locating, mapping, and marking trigger points; measuring a pressure pain threshold; applying a massage treatment; and optionally applying an injection treatment.

System supporting treatment of a subject

The invention relates to a system 1 for planning a treatment of a subject 2. A treatment planning device 39 determines a treatment position of a treatment device like a needle or catheter which comprises an energy delivery element not completely encircling the treatment device. The determined treatment position is a position in a four-dimensional space being representable by three Cartesian coordinates and an angular coordinate defining the angular orientation of the treatment device with respect to a rotation around its longitudinal axis. The treatment device is then arranged in accordance with the treatment position. Since not only the three-dimensional position of the treatment device is determined, but also a rotational position of the treatment device with respect to a rotation of the treatment device around its longitudinal axis, the energy delivery can be very accurately planned, leading to a reduction of unwanted therapy side effects.

用于聚焦超声波治疗的换能器、系统和制造技术

用于从患者外部位置施加超声波能量到环绕血管中血流的区域的系统，该系统包括：包含多个换能器元件的治疗性超声波换能器；以及被配置为控制多个换能器元件的处理器；其中该处理器被配置为改变到换能器元件的相位输入，从而将换能器的聚焦在第一平面上移动至少1cm，并且在与第一平面正交的第二平面上移动至少1cm，该第一平面基本上沿着治疗性超声波换能器的换能器元件的平面；其中该处理器进一步被配置为根据系统的操作者预先确定的图样，将换能器的聚焦定位在与血管中的血流偏移的按次序的位置。

Dual mode ultrasound transducer (dmut) system and method for controlling delivery of ultrasound therapy

이중 모드 초음파 시스템은 트랜스듀서 어레이의 동일 트랜스듀서 요소들을 이용하여 실시간 이미징 및 치료 전달을 제공한다. 시스템은 다중 채널 구동기를 이용하여 어레이의 요소들을 구동할 수 있다. 시스템은 트랜스듀서 요소들의 이중 모드 초음파 어레이(DMUA)를 이용하여 얻은 이미징 데이터에 기초하여 치료의 실시간 모니터링 및 피드백 이미지 제어를 이용한다. 또한, 예를 들어, 이미징 및 치료 모드들 양자에서 다중 모드 코딩된 여기가 이용될 수 있다. 또한, 예를 들어, 개선된 이미징 및 치료를 위한 적응성 실시간 리포커싱이 예를 들어 DMUA 펄스-에코 데이터로부터 얻어진 어레이 지향성 벡터들을 이용하여 달성될 수 있다. Dual-mode ultrasound systems provide real-time imaging and therapeutic delivery using the same transducer elements in a transducer array. The system can drive the elements of the array using a multi-channel driver. The system utilizes real-time monitoring of treatment and feedback image control based on imaging data obtained using a dual mode ultrasound array (DMUA) of transducer elements. Also, multi-mode coded excitation can be used, for example, in both imaging and treatment modes. Also, for example, adaptive real-time re-focusing for improved imaging and treatment can be achieved using array directional vectors obtained from, for example, DMUA pulse-echo data.

움직임 측정을 이용한 고강도 집속 초음파 조사 장치 및 방법

본 발명은 움직임 측정을 이용한 고강도 집속 초음파 조사 장치에 관한 것으로서, 더욱 상세하게는 핸드헬드 형태의 본체부; 상기 본체부에 구비되고, 기설정된 고강도 초음파를 발생시켜 조사 지점에 고강도 집속 초음파(HIFU: High Intensity Focused Ultrasound)를 조사하는 조사부; 상기 본체부의 움직임을 측정하는 측정부; 상기 측정된 움직임에 기초하여 상기 고강도 집속 초음파가 기설정된 간격마다 조사되도록 상기 조사부를 제어하는 제어부; 및 전원을 공급하는 전원부를 포함한다.

Ultrasonic stimulation device used in MRI Device

MRI 장치 내부에서 피험자의 뇌에 초음파 자극을 가하는 시술을 수행함에 있어, 하나의 초점으로 집속되는 집속 초음파를 조사하는 초음파 변환기의 위치를 지정하기 위한 가이드 부재는 피험자의 안면에 얹어지는 마스크 형태의 마스크 몸체와, 상기 초음파 변환기가 삽입될 수 있도록 상기 마스크 몸체의 내면과 외면을 관통하여 형성되는 위치 지정구를 포함하고, 상기 마스크 몸체의 내면은 피험자의 안면 윤곽을 본 따 형성되고, 상기 가이드 부재를 상기 피험자의 안면에 얹은 상태에서 상기 위치 지정구에 상기 초음파 변환기가 위치하면, 상기 초점의 위치가 기설정된 상기 뇌의 자극 부위에 자연히 위치하도록 한다. 초음파 자극 장치는, 하나의 초점으로 집속되는 집속 초음파를 조사하는 초음파 변환기와, 상기 초음파 변환기의 위치를 지정하기 위한 상기 가이드 부재를 포함한다. A guide member for designating a position of an ultrasonic transducer for irradiating a focused ultrasound focused on one focus in performing an operation of applying ultrasound stimulation to the subject's brain in the MRI apparatus includes a mask- And a position designating hole formed to penetrate the inner surface and the outer surface of the mask body so that the ultrasonic transducer can be inserted. The inner surface of the mask body is formed with a contour of the subject's face, When the ultrasound transducer is positioned on the face of the subject, the position of the focal point is naturally positioned in the predetermined stimulation region of the brain. The ultrasonic stimulation apparatus includes an ultrasonic transducer for irradiating a focused ultrasonic wave to be focused at one focus and the guide member for designating the position of the ultrasonic transducer.

Device for extracorporeal treatment of pelvic diseases with focused ultrasound

Изобретение относится к устройству экстракорпорального лечения сфокусированным ультразвуком заболеваний органов таза, относящееся к области технологии лечения высокоинтенсивным сфокусированным ультразвуком. Устройство содержит звукоизлучающую поверхность ультразвукового преобразователя, которая представляет собой сферическую поверхность, имеющую первый срез, второй срез и третий срез, одна большая окружность сферы представляет собой главную большую окружность, первый срез и второй срез, соответственно, расположены на двух пересечениях сферической поверхности и диаметра, перпендикулярного главной большой окружности, а третий срез соединяет первый срез со вторым срезом; поперечное сечение звукоизлучающей поверхности, параллельное главной большой окружности, имеет форму дуги; причем звукоизлучающая поверхность способна отражать ультразвук, а ультразвуковая волна, генерируемая блоком генерирования звука, сфокусирована на центр сферы, соответствующей звукоизлучающей поверхности. Процедурный стол выполнен с возможностью укладывания тела человека в положение для литотомии, и полость таза помещают в центре сферы, соответствующей звукоизлучающей поверхности, причем две ноги, соответственно, выходят из звукоизлучающей поверхности через первый срез и второй срез, а верхняя часть тела человека выходит из звукоизлучающей поверхности через третий срез. Устройство может решить проблемы низкой эффективности, эффекта и безопасности существующего ультразвукового лечения для заболевания предстательной железы. Устройство лечения содержит ультразвуковой преобразователь и процедурный стол. 17 з.п. ф-лы, 16 ил. РОССИЙСКАЯ ФЕДЕРАЦИЯ (19) RU (11) (13) 2 741 721 C1 (51) МПК A61N 7/02 (2006.01) ФЕДЕРАЛЬНАЯ СЛУЖБА ПО ИНТЕЛЛЕКТУАЛЬНОЙ СОБСТВЕННОСТИ (12) ОПИСАНИЕ ИЗОБРЕТЕНИЯ К ПАТЕНТУ (52) СПК A61B 8/4281 (2020.08); A61B 8/4477 (2020.08); A61G 13/009 (2020.08); A61N 7/02 (2020.08); A61N 7/022 (2020.08); G10K 11/28 (2020.08) (21)(22) Заявка: 2020127321, 07.09.2018 07.09.2018 Дата регистрации: 28. ...

Apparatus and method for treating a patient with High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)

本发明涉及在超声治疗患者身体(P)的过程中在第二循环模式成像下避免伪影的装置(1)和方法。具体地以及除其他效果外，本发明还提供了充分控制的方式、尤其是打开和关闭空腔(7)中的流体循环(12)，从而避免伪影，同时仍然实现实际成像。

Ultrasonic transducer and apparatus for treatment with focused ultrasound

Группа изобретений относится к медицине. Ультразвуковой преобразователь содержит блок генерирования звука и звукоизлучающую поверхность. Блок генерирования звука выполнен с возможностью генерирования ультразвуковой волны. Звукоизлучающая поверхность представляет собой сферическую поверхность, имеющую первый срез, второй срез и третий срез, причем одна большая окружность сферы, соответствующей звукоизлучающей поверхности, представляет собой главную большую окружность, первый срез и второй срез, соответственно, расположены на двух пересечениях сферической поверхности и диаметра, перпендикулярного главной большой окружности, а третий срез соединяет первый срез со вторым срезом. В пределах определенных расстояний от главной большой окружности, соответственно, по обе стороны от главной большой окружности поперечное сечение звукоизлучающей поверхности, параллельное главной большой окружности, имеет форму дуги, отверстие дуги соответствует третьему срезу, а соответствующий дуге центральный угол составляет более 180 градусов и менее 360 градусов. Звукоизлучающая поверхность способна отражать ультразвук, а ультразвуковая волна, генерируемая блоком генерирования звука, сфокусирована на центр сферы, соответствующей звукоизлучающей поверхности. Устройство лечения сфокусированным ультразвуком содержит ультразвуковой преобразователь. Применение данной группы изобретений позволит увеличить безопасность лечения. 2 н. и 14 з.п. ф-лы, 19 ил. РОССИЙСКАЯ ФЕДЕРАЦИЯ (19) RU (11) (13) 2 753 279 C1 (51) МПК A61N 7/02 (2006.01) ФЕДЕРАЛЬНАЯ СЛУЖБА ПО ИНТЕЛЛЕКТУАЛЬНОЙ СОБСТВЕННОСТИ (12) ОПИСАНИЕ ИЗОБРЕТЕНИЯ К ПАТЕНТУ (52) СПК A61B 18/04 (2021.05); A61N 7/02 (2021.05); G10K 11/28 (2021.05) (21)(22) Заявка: 2020127309, 07.09.2018 (24) Дата начала отсчета срока действия патента: Дата регистрации: 12.08.2021 (73) Патентообладатель(и): ЧУНЦИН ХАЙФУ МЕДИКАЛ ТЕКНОЛОДЖИ КО., ЛТД. (CN) 22.01.2018 CN 201810059389.5 (45) Опубликовано: 12.08.2021 Бюл. № 23 (56) Список документов, цитированных в отчете о ...

Improved targeting of high intensity focused ultrasound

FIELD: medicine. SUBSTANCE: high-intensity focused ultrasound therapy instrument comprises a magnetic resonance imaging system configured to obtain thermal magnetic resonance data from a subject at least partially located in the imaging zone of the magnetic resonance imaging system, a focused high-intensity ultrasound system that has an adjustable focus, a processor to control the high-intensity focused ultrasound system and the magnetic resonance system, a memory to store computer-executable instructions, wherein the execution of the instructions causes the processor to control the high-intensity focused ultrasound system and the magnetic resonance imaging system, repeatedly restore a plurality of thermal maps using the thermal data of magnetic resonance imaging, calculate the heating mass center for each of the plurality of thermal maps to obtain a set of heating mass centers, select several points of ultrasound destruction from a set of multiple ultrasound destruction points for each element of the set of heating mass centers, wherein one or more ultrasound destruction points are selected using a predetermined criterion, determining a spatially dependent guidance correction by comparing each element of the set of heating mass centers with one or more ultrasound destruction points, and controlling the high-intensity focused ultrasound system to shift the adjustable focus by a spatially dependent targeting correction. The tool contains a machine-readable medium. The method for medical instrument control is implemented when it is used. EFFECT: invention can be used to prevent the heating point from shifting from the focal point of the ultrasonic beam. 15 cl, 5 dwg РОССИЙСКАЯ ФЕДЕРАЦИЯ (19) RU (11) (13) 2 644 932 C2 (51) МПК A61N 7/02 (2006.01) ФЕДЕРАЛЬНАЯ СЛУЖБА ПО ИНТЕЛЛЕКТУАЛЬНОЙ СОБСТВЕННОСТИ (12) ОПИСАНИЕ ИЗОБРЕТЕНИЯ К ПАТЕНТУ (52) СПК A61B 5/015 (2006.01); A61N 7/02 (2006.01) (21)(22) Заявка: 2015101694, 21.06.2013 (24) Дата начала отсчета срока действия ...

Percutaneous devices and methods to visualize, target and ablate nerves

Apparatuses for identifying nerve tissue and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. An example apparatus may include an elongate shaft having a distal region configured to be percutaneously deployed within a patient. An active imaging structure may be disposed on the distal region. The active imaging structure may be configured to remotely image nerve tissue by exciting a signal in nerve tissue from a percutaneous location and receiving the signal from a percutaneous location. The active imaging structure may include one or more probes.

Device including RF source of energy and vacuum system

A method of a soft tissue treatment comprises placing an applicator adjacent to a surface of a body part, the applicator including at least one electrode, providing a fastening mechanism fixing the applicator in contact with the body part, providing a radiofrequency energy by the at least one electrode causing a heating of the soft tissue, providing an electric current to the soft tissue by the at least one electrode causing a muscle contraction, and controlling heating of the soft tissue by the radiofrequency energy and parameters of the electric current provided by the at least one electrode via a control unit, wherein an energy flux density of the radiofrequency energy is in a range of 0.01 mW·mm −2 to 10 W·mm −2 and a frequency of the radiofrequency energy is in a range of 0.1 MHz to 25 GHz, and wherein the body part comprises a face or a chin.

Ultrasound lesion feedback, non-pop monitoring, and force detection

Focused ultrasound therapy apparatus and method of controlling focal point

一种控制聚焦超声波治疗装置中的焦点的方法，所述方法包括：接收向其辐射超声波以去除病灶的目标区域；取决于目标区域的外形确定焦点在目标区域中移动通过的路径；以及在所确定的路径上形成焦点，然后向目标区域辐射超声波。

High Intensity Focused Ultrasound Treatment Head

고강도 집속 초음파 치료헤드를 개시한다. 고강도 집속 초음파 트랜스듀서의 고강도 초음파 방사 프레임은 고강도 초음파 방사면을 갖는다. 멤브레인은 고강도 초음파 방사면과의 사이에 초음파 전달매질을 수용하기 위한 수용공간을 형성한다. 이미징 트랜스듀서는 고강도 초음파 방사 프레임의 중앙을 관통해서 삽입된다. 초음파 전달매질 공급부는 외부의 초음파 전달매질을 수용공간 내로 공급하며, 초음파 전달매질을 고강도 초음파 방사면의 외측으로부터 고강도 초음파 방사면의 내측으로 분사하여 고강도 초음파 방사면 부근에서 유동시킨다. 초음파 전달매질 배출부는 이미징 트랜스듀서에 인접하게 배치되어 수용공간 내의 초음파 전달매질을 외부로 배출한다. A high intensity focused ultrasound therapy head is disclosed. The high intensity ultrasound radiation frame of the high intensity focusing ultrasonic transducer has a high intensity ultrasonic radiation surface. The membrane forms a receiving space for receiving the ultrasonic transmission medium between the high intensity ultrasonic wave emitting surface. The imaging transducer is inserted through the center of the high intensity ultrasound radiation frame. The ultrasound transmission medium supply unit supplies the external ultrasound transmission medium into the receiving space and injects the ultrasound transmission medium from the outside of the high intensity ultrasound emitting plane to the inside of the high intensity ultrasound emitting plane and flows near the high intensity ultrasound emitting plane. The ultrasonic transmission medium discharge portion is disposed adjacent to the imaging transducer to discharge the ultrasonic transmission medium in the accommodation space to the outside.

Method for operating a device for treatment of a tissue and device for treatment of a tissue

본 발명은 생체 조직(6)을 처리하기 위한 장치(1)를 동작시키기 위한 방법에 관한 것이며, 상기 장치(1)는 적어도 두 개의 하위 변환기(2', 2”)를 포함하는 변환기(2)를 포함하며, 상기 하위 변환기 각각은 상기 조직을 조사하기 위한 초음파 하위 빔(8”), 바람직하게는 고강도 집속 초음파를 방출하며, 상기 하위 빔들(8”) 각각은 초점(F) 상에 집속되거나 또는 집속가능하다. 피부 화상을 줄이기 위해 하위 빔(8”) 각각으로 피부 표면(7)의 교차 면적(A si )을 평가하고, 모든 하위 변환기(2, 2”)에 대한 상기 조사의 파워(P si ) 및/또는 기간(t si )을 상기 평가된 교차 면적(A si )에 의존하는 전체 파워(P total ) 또는 기간(t total )의 비율로서 결정한다.

Percutaneous devices and methods to visualize, target and ablate nerves

Apparatuses for identifying nerve tissue and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. An example apparatus may include an elongate shaft (124) having a distal region (120) configured to be percutaneously deployed within a patient. An active imaging structure (112, 114) may be disposed on the distal region. The active imaging structure may be configured to remotely image nerve tissue by exciting a signal in nerve tissue from a percutaneous location and receiving the signal from a percutaneous location. The active imaging structure may include one or more probes (102).

Intraluminal methods of ablating nerve tissue

Methods and apparatus for treating gastroesophageal reflex and other luminal conditions provide for delivering acoustic energy to a body lumen to remodel tissue surrounding the body lumen. In the case of treating GERD, a catheter carrying an ultrasonic or other vibrational transducer is introduced to the lower esophageal sphincter, and acoustic energy is delivered to the sphincter in order to tighten or bulk the sphincter such that reflex is reduced.

Intraluminal method and apparatus for ablating nerve tissue

Methods and apparatus for treating gastroesophageal reflex and other luminal conditions provide for delivering acoustic energy to a body lumen to remodel tissue surrounding the body lumen. In the case of treating GERD, a catheter carrying an ultrasonic or other vibrational transducer is introduced to the lower esophageal sphincter, and acoustic energy is delivered to the sphincter in order to tighten or bulk the sphincter such that reflex is reduced.

Ultrasonic Surgical Apparatus with Silicon Waveguide

Ultrasound surgical apparatus are disclosed, including: medical ultrasound handpieces with proximally mounted ultrasound radiators configured to create a distally-focused beam of ultrasound energy, in combination with distal guide members for control of focal point depth; medical ultrasound handpieces with proximally mounted ultrasound radiators configured to create a distally-focused beam of ultrasound energy, in combination with distal rolling members for manipulability and control of focal point depth; medical ultrasound handpiece assemblies with coupled end effectors providing a probe with a probe dilation region configured to have an average outside diameter that is equal to or greater than the average outside diameter of a probe tip and neck; as well as junctions to an ultrasonically inactive probe sheath; medical ultrasound handpiece assemblies with coupled end effectors having positionable, ultrasonically inactive probe sheath ends slidably operable to both cover and expose at least a probe tip; and ultrasound transducer cores including a transducing structure affixed to a longitudinally elongated, generally planar, single crystal or polycrystalline material waveguide.

Ultrasonic surgical apparatus with silicon waveguide

Ultrasound surgical apparatus are disclosed, including: medical ultrasound handpieces with proximally mounted ultrasound radiators configured to create a distally-focused beam of ultrasound energy, in combination with distal guide members for control of focal point depth; medical ultrasound handpieces with proximally mounted ultrasound radiators configured to create a distally-focused beam of ultrasound energy, in combination with distal rolling members for manipulability and control of focal point depth; medical ultrasound handpiece assemblies with coupled end effectors providing a probe with a probe dilation region configured to have an average outside diameter that is equal to or greater than the average outside diameter of a probe tip and neck; as well as junctions to an ultrasonically inactive probe sheath; medical ultrasound handpiece assemblies with coupled end effectors having positionable, ultrasonically inactive probe sheath ends slidably operable to both cover and expose at least a probe tip; and ultrasound transducer cores including a transducer structure affixed to a longitudinally elongated, generally planar, single crystal or polycrystalline material waveguide.

Ultrasonic surgical apparatus

Ultrasonic surgical apparatus with silicon waveguide

Ultrasound surgical apparatus are disclosed, including: medical ultrasound handpieces with proximally mounted ultrasound radiators configured to create a distally-focused beam of ultrasound energy, in combination with distal guide members for control of focal point depth; medical ultrasound handpieces with proximally mounted ultrasound radiators configured to create a distally-focused beam of ultrasound energy, in combination with distal rolling members for manipulability and control of focal point depth; medical ultrasound handpiece assemblies with coupled end effectors providing a probe with a probe dilation region configured to have an average outside diameter that is equal to or greater than the average outside diameter of a probe tip and neck; as well as junctions to an ultrasonically inactive probe sheath; medical ultrasound handpiece assemblies with coupled end effectors having positionable, ultrasonically inactive probe sheath ends slidably operable to both cover and expose at least a probe tip; and ultrasound transducer cores including a transducing structure affixed to a longitudinally elongated, generally planar, single crystal or polycrystalline material waveguide.

Ultrasonic Surgical Apparatus and Methods for Use Thereof

Ultrasound surgical apparatus are disclosed, including: medical ultrasound handpieces with proximally mounted ultrasound radiators configured to create a distally-focused beam of ultrasound energy, in combination with distal guide members for control of focal point depth; medical ultrasound handpieces with proximally mounted ultrasound radiators configured to create a distally-focused beam of ultrasound energy, in combination with distal rolling members for manipulability and control of focal point depth; medical ultrasound handpiece assemblies with coupled end effectors providing a probe with a probe dilation region configured to have an average outside diameter that is equal to or greater than the average outside diameter of a probe tip and neck; as well as junctions to an ultrasonically inactive probe sheath; medical ultrasound handpiece assemblies with coupled end effectors having positionable, ultrasonically inactive probe sheath ends slidably operable to both cover and expose at least a probe tip; and ultrasound transducer cores including a transducing structure affixed to a longitudinally elongated, generally planar, single crystal or polycrystalline material waveguide.

Ultrasonic surgical apparatus and methods for use thereof

Ultrasound surgical apparatus are disclosed, including: medical ultrasound handpieces with proximally mounted ultrasound radiators configured to create a distally-focused beam of ultrasound energy, in combination with distal guide members for control of focal point depth; medical ultrasound handpieces with proximally mounted ultrasound radiators configured to create a distally-focused beam of ultrasound energy, in combination with distal rolling members for manipulability and control of focal point depth; medical ultrasound handpiece assemblies with coupled end effectors providing a probe with a probe dilation region configured to have an average outside diameter that is equal to or greater than the average outside diameter of a probe tip and neck; as well as junctions to an ultrasonically inactive probe sheath; medical ultrasound handpiece assemblies with coupled end effectors having positionable, ultrasonically inactive probe sheath ends slidably operable to both cover and expose at least a probe tip; and ultrasound transducer cores including a transducing structure affixed to a longitudinally elongated, generally planar, single crystal or polycrystalline material waveguide.

High density focused ultrasound irradiation

Method and apparatus for treating a diseased nail

A diseased nail is treated using electromagnetic radiation and/or other forms of energy that are applied to the diseased area to eliminate, substantially eliminate or effectively reduce the source of disease in the nail. A sensor can be used to ensure proper placement of an applicator that applies the energy to the diseased area of the nail. A temperature monitor can be employed to monitor changes or temperature levels and then adjust the energy application accordingly. In additional, manual forms of adjustment can be used to control the application of energy.

Method and apparatus employing ultrasound energy to treat body sphincters

Methods and apparatus for treating gastroesophageal reflex and other luminal conditions provide for delivering acoustic energy to a body lumen to remodel tissue surrounding the body lumen. In the case of treating GERD, a catheter carrying an ultrasonic or other vibrational transducer is introduced to the lower esophageal sphincter, and acoustic energy is delivered to the sphincter in order to tighten or bulk the sphincter such that reflex is reduced.

Medical apparatus using ultrasound and method of movement control of transducer

본 발명의 다양한 실시예에 따른, 트랜스듀서의 이동 제어 방법은 제1초음파를 송신하고, 반사된 상기 제1초음파를 수신하는 단계; 상기 반사된 제1초음파의 시간과 강도를 분석하고, 상기 분석 결과에 기반하여 피부 조직의 구조 정보를 출력하는 단계; 상기 출력된 피부 조직의 구조 정보 중 적어도 일부를 선택하는 입력을 수신하는 단계; 및 상기 선택된 적어도 일부에 대응하는 치료 부위에 상기 트랜스듀서의 제2초음파 집속점이 형성되도록 상기 트랜스듀서의 이동을 제어하는 단계를 포함할 수 있다. According to various embodiments of the present invention, a method of controlling movement of a transducer includes transmitting a first ultrasonic wave and receiving the reflected first ultrasonic wave; Analyzing the time and intensity of the reflected first ultrasound and outputting structural information of the skin tissue based on the analysis result; Receiving an input for selecting at least a portion of the structural information of the skin tissue output; And controlling the movement of the transducer so that a second ultrasound focusing point of the transducer is formed at a treatment site corresponding to the selected at least part of the transducer.

Real-time hifu therapy monitoring and control in set of measurements

FIELD: medicine. SUBSTANCE: device comprises an ablation unit accommodating a therapeutic grid and multiple-element diagnostic grid confocally mounted with the therapeutic grid which emits a therapeutic energy transfer beam to change the mechanical property of a biological tissue and a push beam based on an acoustic emission force to assess the effects of the therapeutic beam. The therapeutic beam has the last focal point. A control device comprises a combination unit of a matching circuit and multichannel amplifier, a logical start and control unit, and an ultrasound data multichannel collection and analysis unit. The logical launch and control unit produces start and control signals to provide timing and electronic control of the three types of the acoustic beams including the therapeutic beams, push beams and tracking beams which alternate. The combination unit of the matching circuit and multichannel amplifier responds to the start and control signals supplied by the logical start and control unit to apply excitation signals to the therapeutic grid. The ultrasound data multichannel collection and analysis unit responds to the start and control signals to electronically control the tracking beam to control a measurement in a specific location displaced from the last focal point of the therapeutic beam in at least one of the directions in azimuth and lift, and - to the target periphery of an injury formed by the therapeutic beam. The tracking beam tracks the change caused by pushing the above biological tissue in response to the push beam based on the acoustic emission force apart from the therapeutic beam. EFFECT: using the invention enables to provide high accuracy when determining the stop time of tissue ablation in the ablation point. 15 cl, 12 dwg РОССИЙСКАЯ ФЕДЕРАЦИЯ (19) RU (11) (13) 2 579 737 C2 (51) МПК A61N 7/02 (2006.01) A61B 8/00 (2006.01) ФЕДЕРАЛЬНАЯ СЛУЖБА ПО ИНТЕЛЛЕКТУАЛЬНОЙ СОБСТВЕННОСТИ (12) ОПИСАНИЕ (21)(22) Заявка: ИЗОБРЕТЕНИЯ К ПАТЕНТУ ...

Apparatus for scanning a position

본 발명은 고강도 집중 초음파 치료시스템용 위치인식 스캔장치에 관한 것으로, 특히 고강도 집중 초음파 치료시스템의 3차원 위치인식, 5차원 정밀 스캔장치에 관한 것이다. 위치 측정용 초음파 탐침과 집속 초음파 변환기(focused ultrasonic transducer)는 내외 부시(inner/outer bush)를 통해 치료용 헤드 내부의 5차원 정밀 스캔장치의 지지대에 설치된다. 치료용 헤드는 양측의 회전부와 풀-푸쉬(pull-push)부를 통해 암에 연결되고, 암은 회전축과 원호형 궤도를 통해 연결판에 연결되고, 연결판은 직선형 가이드레일을 통해 기둥과 연결되어 시스템의 3차원 위치인식장치를 형성한다. 상기 장치는 고강도 집중 초음파 치료시스템 집속 초음파 변환기가 위에서 아래로의 치료방식을 구현하고 3차원 위치인식 후 시스템은 치료용 헤드 내부의 5차원 정밀 스캔 운동기구를 통해 환자의 병소(nidu)에 대해 위치 정밀 인식, 스캐닝, 이미지 형성 및 치료를 하고 집속 초음파 변환기는 위에서 아래로 치료 체위에 따른 요구를 충족시키고 시스템 정밀 스캔 치료과정에서 이동 오차를 줄인다. 스캔장치, 위치인식, 하이푸