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Rectal balloon apparatus with pressure relieving lumen and sensors

DC
  • US 8,679,147 B2
  • Filed: 11/17/2011
  • Issued: 03/25/2014
  • Est. Priority Date: 01/16/2007
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A method of prostate cancer treatment by external beam radiation therapy, comprising:

  • a. inserting a prostate immobilizing balloon into the rectum of a male patient,said prostate balloon having;

    i. a proximal end and a distal end and having a generally laterally flat seating area on a top surface thereof and a bottom rounded surface;

    ii. a shaft having a fluid passageway extending therethrough and a valve;

    iii. said balloon affixed over an end of said shaft such that said fluid passageway communicates with an interior of said balloon;

    iv. said valve being closable so as to maintain an inflated configuration;

    v. a lumen having a second fluid passageway therein and extending from past said proximal end of said balloon to past said distal end of said balloon, said lumen having a capped distal tip and one or more ports adjacent said capped distal tip and distal to said distal end of said balloon;

    b. properly positioning said prostate on said seating area, and inflating said balloon to immobilize a said prostate in said patient;

    c. treating said prostate with external beam radiation therapy; and

    d. allowing rectal gas to exit the rectum via said one or more ports during treatment.

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