Novel radiosurgery methods that utilize stereotactic methods to precisely deliver high dosages of radiation especially to the spine
First Claim
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1. A method for delivery of a therapeutic dosage of radiation to a target site near the spine comprising the following steps:
- (i) immobilizing the area of the spine of a patient that includes a target site that is to be treated using stereotactic radiosurgery;
(ii) obtaining CT images of said area of the spine;
(iii) transferring said CT images and using said images to identify a target volume (tissue to be irradiated) and critical structures (area that is to be protected from irradiation);
(iv) designing a stereotactic radiotherapeutic protocol based on the identified target volume and critical structure; and
(v) precisely aligning said patent in a determined position suitable for effecting said radiotherapeutic protocol; and
(vi) effecting said stereotactic radiosurgery protocol.
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Abstract
A system for delivery of high dosage of radiation to a targeted spinal area is provided. This is accomplished by a system which provides for precise immobilization and positioning of the treated spinal area during dose planning and treatment via stereotactic radiosurgery. Advantages of the system include convenience to the patient, enhanced efficacy, and reduced risk of radiotoxicity to non-target tissues.
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Citations
17 Claims
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1. A method for delivery of a therapeutic dosage of radiation to a target site near the spine comprising the following steps:
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(i) immobilizing the area of the spine of a patient that includes a target site that is to be treated using stereotactic radiosurgery;
(ii) obtaining CT images of said area of the spine;
(iii) transferring said CT images and using said images to identify a target volume (tissue to be irradiated) and critical structures (area that is to be protected from irradiation);
(iv) designing a stereotactic radiotherapeutic protocol based on the identified target volume and critical structure; and
(v) precisely aligning said patent in a determined position suitable for effecting said radiotherapeutic protocol; and
(vi) effecting said stereotactic radiosurgery protocol. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17)
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14. A system for effecting spinal stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) that comprises the following:
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(i) a device that provides for the precise positioning and immobilization of the spine of a patient that is to be treated by SRS;
(ii) an SRS reference system that is affixed to the area of the spine or cranium or iliac crest of a patient that is to be treated by SRS that allows for precise determination of the position and alignment of the patient;
(iii) a CT scanning device that provides for the generation of CT images of a predetermined area of the immobilized spine of said patient;
(iv) a means for transferring said CT images to a radiation planning system that includes computer software that designs an appropriate SRS protocol based on said CT images; and
(v) means for effecting said SRS protocol.
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Specification