Apparatus for hyperthermia and brachytherapy delivery

Abstract

A combination applicator is able to deliver heat and radiation, either simultaneously or sequentially, for the treatment of cancer or other disease. The combination applicator is flexible and able to conform to contoured anatomy of the patient. The combination applicator comprises a flexible, dielectric containing compartment having a tissue-engaging surface and an opposite, non-tissue-engaging surface. A heating surface comprising one or more RF or microwave antennas or ultrasound transducers is supported adjacent to the non-tissue-engaging surface. In addition, a plurality of conduits are also supported on the dielectric containing compartment, the conduits being adapted to communicate with at least one brachytherapy source. Additional conduits may be located on the tissue contacting surface of the dielectric containing compartment to accommodate moving or stationary temperature monitoring sensors.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.