CA2377441A1 - Self-contained ultrasound applicator - Google Patents
Self-contained ultrasound applicator Download PDFInfo
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- CA2377441A1 CA2377441A1 CA002377441A CA2377441A CA2377441A1 CA 2377441 A1 CA2377441 A1 CA 2377441A1 CA 002377441 A CA002377441 A CA 002377441A CA 2377441 A CA2377441 A CA 2377441A CA 2377441 A1 CA2377441 A1 CA 2377441A1
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- self
- applicator
- cantilever
- ultrasound applicator
- operating unit
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N7/00—Ultrasound therapy
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
- A61B2017/00681—Aspects not otherwise provided for
- A61B2017/00734—Aspects not otherwise provided for battery operated
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- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Surgical Instruments (AREA)
- Ultra Sonic Daignosis Equipment (AREA)
- Apparatuses For Generation Of Mechanical Vibrations (AREA)
Abstract
A self-contained ultrasound applicator (20) for therapeutically treating injuries. The self-contained ultrasound applicator comprises a cantilever (26) mounting structure, a cantilever connected to the mounting structure, a main operating unit (22) operably mounted adjacent the cantilever and an ultrasonic transducer (32) positioned adjacent a distal portion of the cantilever for abutment with a treatment site (34). The self-contained ultrasound applicator includes a means for attaching adjacent a treatment site. The cantilever is configured to urgingly bias the ultrasonic transducer toward a treatment site when mounted adjacent the treatment site.
Description
SELF-CONTAINED ULTRASOUND APPLICATOR
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Technical Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an apparatus for therapeutically treating injuries using ultrasound. More particularly, the present invention relates to a self-contained ultrasound applicator which may be mounted on a patient to ultrasonically treat bone injuries, a variety of musculoskeletal injuries and other treatable injuries.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Technical Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an apparatus for therapeutically treating injuries using ultrasound. More particularly, the present invention relates to a self-contained ultrasound applicator which may be mounted on a patient to ultrasonically treat bone injuries, a variety of musculoskeletal injuries and other treatable injuries.
2. Description of the Related Art The use of ultrasound to therapeutically treat and evaluate bone injuries is known. Impinging ultrasonic pulses having appropriate parameters, e.g., frequency, pulse repetition, and amplitude, for suitable periods of time and at a proper external location adjacent a bone injury has been determined to accelerate the natural healing of, for example, bone breaks and fractures. For patients with reduced healing capacity, such as elderly persons with osteoporosis, ultrasonic therapy may promote healing of bone injuries that would otherwise require prosthetic replacement or leave the patient permanently disabled.
U.S. Patent No. 4,530,360 to Duarte describes a basic non-invasive therapeutic technique and apparatus for applying ultrasonic pulses from an operative surface placed on the skin at a location adjacent a bone injury. The applicator described in the ' 360 patent has a plastic tube which serves as a grip for the operator, an RF plug attached to the plastic tube for connection to an RF
source, and internal calling connected to an ultrasonic transducer. To apply the ultrasound pulses during treatment, an operator must manually hold the applicator in place until the treatment is complete. As a result, the patient is, in effect, immobilized during treatment. The longer the treatment period, the more the patient is inconvenienced.
The ' 360 patent also describes a range of RF signals for creating the ultrasound, " ' ' '' : 57 FAg 404 815 8555 $S ATLANTA US001619C
21-06-2001 ~ CA 02377441 2001-12-13 ultinsound power density levels, a range of duration for each ultrasonic pulse, and a range of ultrasoan~ic pulse fi~quencias.
U.S. Parent Nos. 5,003,965 and S,I $6,162, both to Talish et al., n,.latre to an ultrasonic body treatment syatam having a body-applicator unit connected to a remote control unit by sheathed fiber optic lines. The signals controlling the duration of u~asonic pulses and the pulse repetition fmqnancy are generated apart ~m the body-applicator unit. Talish et al, also deaeribe a mounting ~xt<ue far attaching the body-applicator unit to a patient so that the operative surface is adjacent the slan location.
U.S. Patent No. 5,55b,372, also to Talish at al., attempts to improve upon the above ultrasonic body treatmem systems by providing an ergonoxrrically constructed nltrasonie transducer treatment head module. The main operating unit is coasfrncted to fit within a pouch worn by the patieuut, while the transducer treatment head module is positioned adjacent the area of the injury. The apparatus dcscn'bed in the '372 patent therefore permits the patient to be mobile during treatment While the systems described in the abavo pat~cnts relate; to therapeutic methods and apparatus for ultrasonically treating injured bona, they do not disclose a self-comain~ed ultrasound applicator coafigmred to urgiagly bias the transducer toward a treatment site when mounted adjacent the trea>znent site.
PCT Publication WO 98/34578 relates to a lot of elements including an ultrasonic generator, transducers with comtccting cables, sad a mesas for locating the transducers over areas of the body containing cartilage, provided with the surgical instruments for post~surgical application to ultrasonically stimulate the cartilage gro'~rth, thus zelieving the effects of surgical intervention.
PCT Publication WO 97/33649 relates to an apparatus used for therapeutically treating injuries using ultrasound. Tire appazatus includes an ergonomically constructed uhrasonic transducer trcatatcnt head module is positioned adjacent the area of the it~juty and excited for a predetermined period of timt. The apparatus includes means for positioning and hoidzng the treatment head module adjacent positions on tine torso of the body, such ss the clavicle, the ueoeses AMENDED SHEET
EmDfansJlCll LI~JUIII IV~J4 "?:3? FAg 404 815 8555 ' RS ATLANTA f~ooB
21-06-2001 CA 02377441 2001-12-13 ~ US001619C
' pelvrs, the hip and the spine.
PCT Publication WO 99/22b52 to methods and apparatus for enabling sube~tially bloodless snrgcryand for st~~g hatnonhagiag using high intensity focused nhrasound to form caubcrized tissue regions prior to surgical S incision.
It is t>tsrefore an objective of this imreation to provide a self contained ultrasound applicator which is conf gnred to urgingly bias a tra~nsaucex toward a treatment site when mounted adjacent thereto.
SiTMMARY OF.T~ ri~Tt'EN~'IO1~T
it is an object of the present invention to provide a self-contained ultrasound applicator having a main operating unit with an internal power source, a canh~ewer which is connected to and extends from the mnia operating unit, and an ultrasonic transducer which is connected ac~axnt a distal end of the cantilever. The self-contained ultrnsound applicator is preferably provided with a means for attaching the applicator to a patient adjacent a treat'mant site. The applicator a~
u~oesu AMENDED SHEET
Emafan8~~o~, ,.,."~", attaching means advantageously provides a patient with virtually unlimited mobility and comfort during treatment.
It is a further object of this invention to provide a self-contained ultrasound applicator having a cantilever which is configured to urgingly bias the transducer toward a treatment site when mounted adjacent the treatment site.
The biasing feature of the cantilever configuration enhances the efficiency of the therapeutic treatment administered by the ultrasonic transducer.
These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, which is to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a better understanding of the invention, reference is made to the following description of exemplary embodiments thereof, and to the accompanying drawings wherein:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a self contained ultrasound applicator in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is an end view of a self contained ultrasound applicator;
FIG. 3 is a top view of a self contained ultrasound applicator;
FIG. 4 is a side view of a self contained ultrasound applicator; and FIG. S is a perspective view of a self contained ultrasound applicator in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring initially to FIG. 1, there is shown a self-contained ultrasound applicator 20 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The self contained ultrasound applicator 20 comprises a main operating unit 22 on a proximal end 24 thereof. Main operating unit 22 includes a housing 23 which is typically constructed in two half sections joined together by screws, ultrasonic welds or adhesives. Preferably, main operating unit 22 has an internal power source for powering signal generator circuitry in an ultrasonic transducer.
The internal power source typically comprises at least one lithium battery positioned in a battery compartment.
Signal generator circuitry, within the signal generator, generates and controls the pulses transferred to an ultrasonic transducer assembly.
Preferably, signal generator circuitry includes a processor having memory (e.g., RAM and ROM) and stored programs (e.g., system and application) for controlling the operation of the processor, as well as the transducer treatment head module. A
processor is typically coupled to a display and a keypad and is configured to receive data from the keypad and to transfer data to the display. The processor may include a microprocessor, such as the Intel~ 80/x86 family of microprocessors, or the processor may be a microcontroller having internal memory. A communication interface may be connected between a communication port and the processor to communicate with, for example, an external computer. The communication interface may be a serial interface, such as an RS-232 interface, a parallel interface, or a modem.
The processor is also utilized to control the treatment sequence, i.e., the start time and the stop time of the ultrasonic treatment. The processor may be preprogrammed. for treatment times and the user (e.g. the physician or patient) selects one of the treatment times via a keypad, or the processor may be programmed by the user via the keypad to set the start and stop sequence.
Typical treatment times may range between 1 and 55 minutes, although treatments in the order of 10-20 minutes are common. Typical signal generator circuitry as is known to one of ordinary skill in the art may be used, for example, as disclosed in U.S.
Patent No. 5,556,372 to Talish et al.
A cantilever 26 is connected to, and extends from, main operating unit 22. Cantilever 26 has a proximal portion 28 and a distal portion 30. An ultrasonic transducer 32 is connected adjacent a distal portion 30 of cantilever 26.
It is known in the art that ultrasonic pulses attenuate rapidly in gases such as air, and that, consequently, the operative surface of the ultrasonic transducer must be as flush against the treatment site as possible. It is also known in the art.
'2:57 FAg 404 815 8555 HS ATLANTA ~ ~~-21-06-2001 , CA 02377441 2001-12-13 US001619C
that, since it is olbea not poss~lo to pressthe operative surface completely flush against the tneamnent sits, ul6rasonically conductive coupling gel is need between the operative surface and the ~eatmmt site to ensure a continuous contact. To further enhance the continuity of contact between ulhaaonlc ucar 32 and a traatnneat site, cantllevcr 26 is configared to urgiagly bias the transducer 32 toward the treatment site when the self-contained nhrasound applicator 20 is mounted adjacent the treatment site. Preferred con~tgurations of cantilever 26 are descn'bed below.
Handles 34 era mouatcd on either side of the ~lfeontained ultrasound applicator 20. Handles 34 are provided to connect a means for attaching applicator 20 adjaccat a treamiam site. Pno~eerably, the means for attaching ~e self contained ultrasound applicator 20 to a treatment site comprises an adjustable strap.
The adjustable strap is preferably in two sections and has a hook and loop type fastening assembly, such as Velcro, so that the two sections may be fastened together and quickly unfastaned_ Other quick release fastening techaiquos are also contcmplatod.
FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate end and top views of salfcontain~i ultrasound applicator Z0, respectively. Handles 34 are apparaat oz; either side of self-contained ultrasound applicator 20. Cant~cvcr 26 is Shawn extaading substantially orthogonal to main operating unit 22. Main operating unit 22 further includes display 36 and keypads 38. I?isplay 3b may be, for example, a liquid crystal type display or an LED type display suitable for displaying text arid rrumerals. Display 36 and keypads 38 arc operably connected to a printed circuit board located within main opcratiag unit 2Z, as is known to ono sln'lled is the art.
FTG. 4 is a side view of a self-contained ultrasound applicator which ZS i7lustratcs a downwardly projecting configuration of cantilever 26. As discussed supra, to function properly, the operative surface of the transducer 32 must be co~aapletely flush against a treatment sits oa a patient to eliminate say air gaps.The ptefeaed eon$guration of cantilever 26 is designed to utgozgly bias the operative surface of transducer 32 toward a treatment site, thereby eahaacing the co~inuity of the contact area. As shown, cantilever 26 projects dowuwa<d as it eJCtends from rosin operating unit 22 to form a first predetermined angle 8 with a horizontal plane ».o.....
AMENDED SHEET
Empfangszem ~n Zuni m :s4 parallel to a bottom surface of the main operating unit 22. The magnitude of first predetermined angle 0 is typically in a range of about one degree to about fifteen degrees. A preferred magnitude of first predetermined angle 0 is two degrees.
Also shown in FIG. 4 is a preferred configuration of transducer 32. Ultrasonic transducer 32 is connected to a distal portion 30 of cantilever 26. Moreover, in a preferred embodiment, ultrasonic transducer 32 tilts downward to form a second predetermined angle [3 with a horizontal plane parallel to a bottom surface of main operating unit 22. The magnitude of second predetermined angle ~3 is typically in a range of about one degree to about twenty degrees. A preferred magnitude of second predetermined angle ~3 is five degrees.
Referring now to FIG. 5, there is shown a perspective view of another embodiment of a self contained ultrasound applicator in accordance with the present invention. The self contained ultrasound applicator 60 comprises a main operating unit 62 on a proximal end 64 thereof. Main operating unit 62 includes a housing which is typically constructed in two half-sections joined together by screws, ultrasonic welds or adhesives. Preferably, main operating unit 62 has an internal power source for powering signal generator circuitry in an ultrasonic transducer.
Main operating unit 62 also includes a display 84 and keypads 86.
Display 84 may be, for example, a liquid crystal type display or an LED type display suitable for displaying text and numerals. Display 84 and keypads 86 are operably connected to a printed circuit board located within main operating unit 62, as is known to one skilled in the art.
A cantilever 66 is slidably connected, and extends from, main operating unit 62. In a preferred embodiment, a longitudinal slot 68 is provided in cantilever 66 for slidable engagement with main operating unit 62. Cantilever has a proximal portion 70 and a distal portion 72. An ultrasonic transducer 74 is connected adjacent a distal portion 72 of cantilever 66.
A means for attaching self contained ultrasound applicator 60 adjacent a treatment site is shown in a preferred embodiment comprising a strap 76.
Strap 76 is preferably adjustable by means of a hook and loop type fastening 21-06-2001~ 2' S8 FAg 404 818 8555 RS ATLANTA '''' ~~~
assembly, such as Velao~, so that iwo sections of the strap may be fastened together and quickly unfastened. Other quick release fastening techniques are also contemplated.
As discussed above, it is known in the art that ultcaaonic pulses attcnuato rapidly in gases such as air, and that, consequently, the operative suaface of the ultrasoanic transducer must be as flush against the treatment site as possible.
To enhance the peaformanae of ultrasonic transducer 74, a gal pad 78 is typically provided sad placed botweon ultixaonic tcauaducer 74 and a treamient sits. Oel pad 78 prefexsbly contains an ultrasonically conductive coupling gel.
?o enhance the contact between ultrasonic transducer 74 and gel pad 78, a distal portion 7Z of cantilever 66 projects downward to foma a predetoanincd angle a. The downward projection of a distal portion 72 of cantilever 66 urgingly biases ultrasonic transducer 74 in a direction toward gel pad 78, thereby enhancing the continuity of a contact area therebetwoen. The magnitude of the px~etamined 1 S angle a is typically in a range of about one degree to about twenty degrees.
During operation, a self-contained ultrasound applicator 60 is typically attached to a cast 80 of a patient by means of a sl=ap 76. A cast 80 has a hole 82 to iasertably receive a gel pad 78 and an ultrasonic transducer 74.
Hole 82 is typically adjaoent a treatment site corresponding to an iqjury on or in a patient's body. The distance between strap 76 and ultrasonic t<ansdncez 74 may be slidably adjusted slang a longitudinal axis of slot 68 in ca~otr~ewer 66, to ensure a pivper fit between the self-contained ultrasound applicator 60 and a body of a patient by moans of strap 76, and the proper contact between ultrasonic transducer 74 and geI
pad 78 when insettably received in hole 82. Furthermore, the configuxation of cantilever 66 forming predetermined angle a will urgingty bias ultrsasonic t<ar'sducer 74 toward gel pad 78 in hole 82 of cast 8fl.
U.S. Patent No. 4,530,360 to Duarte describes a basic non-invasive therapeutic technique and apparatus for applying ultrasonic pulses from an operative surface placed on the skin at a location adjacent a bone injury. The applicator described in the ' 360 patent has a plastic tube which serves as a grip for the operator, an RF plug attached to the plastic tube for connection to an RF
source, and internal calling connected to an ultrasonic transducer. To apply the ultrasound pulses during treatment, an operator must manually hold the applicator in place until the treatment is complete. As a result, the patient is, in effect, immobilized during treatment. The longer the treatment period, the more the patient is inconvenienced.
The ' 360 patent also describes a range of RF signals for creating the ultrasound, " ' ' '' : 57 FAg 404 815 8555 $S ATLANTA US001619C
21-06-2001 ~ CA 02377441 2001-12-13 ultinsound power density levels, a range of duration for each ultrasonic pulse, and a range of ultrasoan~ic pulse fi~quencias.
U.S. Parent Nos. 5,003,965 and S,I $6,162, both to Talish et al., n,.latre to an ultrasonic body treatment syatam having a body-applicator unit connected to a remote control unit by sheathed fiber optic lines. The signals controlling the duration of u~asonic pulses and the pulse repetition fmqnancy are generated apart ~m the body-applicator unit. Talish et al, also deaeribe a mounting ~xt<ue far attaching the body-applicator unit to a patient so that the operative surface is adjacent the slan location.
U.S. Patent No. 5,55b,372, also to Talish at al., attempts to improve upon the above ultrasonic body treatmem systems by providing an ergonoxrrically constructed nltrasonie transducer treatment head module. The main operating unit is coasfrncted to fit within a pouch worn by the patieuut, while the transducer treatment head module is positioned adjacent the area of the injury. The apparatus dcscn'bed in the '372 patent therefore permits the patient to be mobile during treatment While the systems described in the abavo pat~cnts relate; to therapeutic methods and apparatus for ultrasonically treating injured bona, they do not disclose a self-comain~ed ultrasound applicator coafigmred to urgiagly bias the transducer toward a treatment site when mounted adjacent the trea>znent site.
PCT Publication WO 98/34578 relates to a lot of elements including an ultrasonic generator, transducers with comtccting cables, sad a mesas for locating the transducers over areas of the body containing cartilage, provided with the surgical instruments for post~surgical application to ultrasonically stimulate the cartilage gro'~rth, thus zelieving the effects of surgical intervention.
PCT Publication WO 97/33649 relates to an apparatus used for therapeutically treating injuries using ultrasound. Tire appazatus includes an ergonomically constructed uhrasonic transducer trcatatcnt head module is positioned adjacent the area of the it~juty and excited for a predetermined period of timt. The apparatus includes means for positioning and hoidzng the treatment head module adjacent positions on tine torso of the body, such ss the clavicle, the ueoeses AMENDED SHEET
EmDfansJlCll LI~JUIII IV~J4 "?:3? FAg 404 815 8555 ' RS ATLANTA f~ooB
21-06-2001 CA 02377441 2001-12-13 ~ US001619C
' pelvrs, the hip and the spine.
PCT Publication WO 99/22b52 to methods and apparatus for enabling sube~tially bloodless snrgcryand for st~~g hatnonhagiag using high intensity focused nhrasound to form caubcrized tissue regions prior to surgical S incision.
It is t>tsrefore an objective of this imreation to provide a self contained ultrasound applicator which is conf gnred to urgingly bias a tra~nsaucex toward a treatment site when mounted adjacent thereto.
SiTMMARY OF.T~ ri~Tt'EN~'IO1~T
it is an object of the present invention to provide a self-contained ultrasound applicator having a main operating unit with an internal power source, a canh~ewer which is connected to and extends from the mnia operating unit, and an ultrasonic transducer which is connected ac~axnt a distal end of the cantilever. The self-contained ultrnsound applicator is preferably provided with a means for attaching the applicator to a patient adjacent a treat'mant site. The applicator a~
u~oesu AMENDED SHEET
Emafan8~~o~, ,.,."~", attaching means advantageously provides a patient with virtually unlimited mobility and comfort during treatment.
It is a further object of this invention to provide a self-contained ultrasound applicator having a cantilever which is configured to urgingly bias the transducer toward a treatment site when mounted adjacent the treatment site.
The biasing feature of the cantilever configuration enhances the efficiency of the therapeutic treatment administered by the ultrasonic transducer.
These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, which is to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a better understanding of the invention, reference is made to the following description of exemplary embodiments thereof, and to the accompanying drawings wherein:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a self contained ultrasound applicator in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is an end view of a self contained ultrasound applicator;
FIG. 3 is a top view of a self contained ultrasound applicator;
FIG. 4 is a side view of a self contained ultrasound applicator; and FIG. S is a perspective view of a self contained ultrasound applicator in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring initially to FIG. 1, there is shown a self-contained ultrasound applicator 20 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The self contained ultrasound applicator 20 comprises a main operating unit 22 on a proximal end 24 thereof. Main operating unit 22 includes a housing 23 which is typically constructed in two half sections joined together by screws, ultrasonic welds or adhesives. Preferably, main operating unit 22 has an internal power source for powering signal generator circuitry in an ultrasonic transducer.
The internal power source typically comprises at least one lithium battery positioned in a battery compartment.
Signal generator circuitry, within the signal generator, generates and controls the pulses transferred to an ultrasonic transducer assembly.
Preferably, signal generator circuitry includes a processor having memory (e.g., RAM and ROM) and stored programs (e.g., system and application) for controlling the operation of the processor, as well as the transducer treatment head module. A
processor is typically coupled to a display and a keypad and is configured to receive data from the keypad and to transfer data to the display. The processor may include a microprocessor, such as the Intel~ 80/x86 family of microprocessors, or the processor may be a microcontroller having internal memory. A communication interface may be connected between a communication port and the processor to communicate with, for example, an external computer. The communication interface may be a serial interface, such as an RS-232 interface, a parallel interface, or a modem.
The processor is also utilized to control the treatment sequence, i.e., the start time and the stop time of the ultrasonic treatment. The processor may be preprogrammed. for treatment times and the user (e.g. the physician or patient) selects one of the treatment times via a keypad, or the processor may be programmed by the user via the keypad to set the start and stop sequence.
Typical treatment times may range between 1 and 55 minutes, although treatments in the order of 10-20 minutes are common. Typical signal generator circuitry as is known to one of ordinary skill in the art may be used, for example, as disclosed in U.S.
Patent No. 5,556,372 to Talish et al.
A cantilever 26 is connected to, and extends from, main operating unit 22. Cantilever 26 has a proximal portion 28 and a distal portion 30. An ultrasonic transducer 32 is connected adjacent a distal portion 30 of cantilever 26.
It is known in the art that ultrasonic pulses attenuate rapidly in gases such as air, and that, consequently, the operative surface of the ultrasonic transducer must be as flush against the treatment site as possible. It is also known in the art.
'2:57 FAg 404 815 8555 HS ATLANTA ~ ~~-21-06-2001 , CA 02377441 2001-12-13 US001619C
that, since it is olbea not poss~lo to pressthe operative surface completely flush against the tneamnent sits, ul6rasonically conductive coupling gel is need between the operative surface and the ~eatmmt site to ensure a continuous contact. To further enhance the continuity of contact between ulhaaonlc ucar 32 and a traatnneat site, cantllevcr 26 is configared to urgiagly bias the transducer 32 toward the treatment site when the self-contained nhrasound applicator 20 is mounted adjacent the treatment site. Preferred con~tgurations of cantilever 26 are descn'bed below.
Handles 34 era mouatcd on either side of the ~lfeontained ultrasound applicator 20. Handles 34 are provided to connect a means for attaching applicator 20 adjaccat a treamiam site. Pno~eerably, the means for attaching ~e self contained ultrasound applicator 20 to a treatment site comprises an adjustable strap.
The adjustable strap is preferably in two sections and has a hook and loop type fastening assembly, such as Velcro, so that the two sections may be fastened together and quickly unfastaned_ Other quick release fastening techaiquos are also contcmplatod.
FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate end and top views of salfcontain~i ultrasound applicator Z0, respectively. Handles 34 are apparaat oz; either side of self-contained ultrasound applicator 20. Cant~cvcr 26 is Shawn extaading substantially orthogonal to main operating unit 22. Main operating unit 22 further includes display 36 and keypads 38. I?isplay 3b may be, for example, a liquid crystal type display or an LED type display suitable for displaying text arid rrumerals. Display 36 and keypads 38 arc operably connected to a printed circuit board located within main opcratiag unit 2Z, as is known to ono sln'lled is the art.
FTG. 4 is a side view of a self-contained ultrasound applicator which ZS i7lustratcs a downwardly projecting configuration of cantilever 26. As discussed supra, to function properly, the operative surface of the transducer 32 must be co~aapletely flush against a treatment sits oa a patient to eliminate say air gaps.The ptefeaed eon$guration of cantilever 26 is designed to utgozgly bias the operative surface of transducer 32 toward a treatment site, thereby eahaacing the co~inuity of the contact area. As shown, cantilever 26 projects dowuwa<d as it eJCtends from rosin operating unit 22 to form a first predetermined angle 8 with a horizontal plane ».o.....
AMENDED SHEET
Empfangszem ~n Zuni m :s4 parallel to a bottom surface of the main operating unit 22. The magnitude of first predetermined angle 0 is typically in a range of about one degree to about fifteen degrees. A preferred magnitude of first predetermined angle 0 is two degrees.
Also shown in FIG. 4 is a preferred configuration of transducer 32. Ultrasonic transducer 32 is connected to a distal portion 30 of cantilever 26. Moreover, in a preferred embodiment, ultrasonic transducer 32 tilts downward to form a second predetermined angle [3 with a horizontal plane parallel to a bottom surface of main operating unit 22. The magnitude of second predetermined angle ~3 is typically in a range of about one degree to about twenty degrees. A preferred magnitude of second predetermined angle ~3 is five degrees.
Referring now to FIG. 5, there is shown a perspective view of another embodiment of a self contained ultrasound applicator in accordance with the present invention. The self contained ultrasound applicator 60 comprises a main operating unit 62 on a proximal end 64 thereof. Main operating unit 62 includes a housing which is typically constructed in two half-sections joined together by screws, ultrasonic welds or adhesives. Preferably, main operating unit 62 has an internal power source for powering signal generator circuitry in an ultrasonic transducer.
Main operating unit 62 also includes a display 84 and keypads 86.
Display 84 may be, for example, a liquid crystal type display or an LED type display suitable for displaying text and numerals. Display 84 and keypads 86 are operably connected to a printed circuit board located within main operating unit 62, as is known to one skilled in the art.
A cantilever 66 is slidably connected, and extends from, main operating unit 62. In a preferred embodiment, a longitudinal slot 68 is provided in cantilever 66 for slidable engagement with main operating unit 62. Cantilever has a proximal portion 70 and a distal portion 72. An ultrasonic transducer 74 is connected adjacent a distal portion 72 of cantilever 66.
A means for attaching self contained ultrasound applicator 60 adjacent a treatment site is shown in a preferred embodiment comprising a strap 76.
Strap 76 is preferably adjustable by means of a hook and loop type fastening 21-06-2001~ 2' S8 FAg 404 818 8555 RS ATLANTA '''' ~~~
assembly, such as Velao~, so that iwo sections of the strap may be fastened together and quickly unfastened. Other quick release fastening techniques are also contemplated.
As discussed above, it is known in the art that ultcaaonic pulses attcnuato rapidly in gases such as air, and that, consequently, the operative suaface of the ultrasoanic transducer must be as flush against the treatment site as possible.
To enhance the peaformanae of ultrasonic transducer 74, a gal pad 78 is typically provided sad placed botweon ultixaonic tcauaducer 74 and a treamient sits. Oel pad 78 prefexsbly contains an ultrasonically conductive coupling gel.
?o enhance the contact between ultrasonic transducer 74 and gel pad 78, a distal portion 7Z of cantilever 66 projects downward to foma a predetoanincd angle a. The downward projection of a distal portion 72 of cantilever 66 urgingly biases ultrasonic transducer 74 in a direction toward gel pad 78, thereby enhancing the continuity of a contact area therebetwoen. The magnitude of the px~etamined 1 S angle a is typically in a range of about one degree to about twenty degrees.
During operation, a self-contained ultrasound applicator 60 is typically attached to a cast 80 of a patient by means of a sl=ap 76. A cast 80 has a hole 82 to iasertably receive a gel pad 78 and an ultrasonic transducer 74.
Hole 82 is typically adjaoent a treatment site corresponding to an iqjury on or in a patient's body. The distance between strap 76 and ultrasonic t<ansdncez 74 may be slidably adjusted slang a longitudinal axis of slot 68 in ca~otr~ewer 66, to ensure a pivper fit between the self-contained ultrasound applicator 60 and a body of a patient by moans of strap 76, and the proper contact between ultrasonic transducer 74 and geI
pad 78 when insettably received in hole 82. Furthermore, the configuxation of cantilever 66 forming predetermined angle a will urgingty bias ultrsasonic t<ar'sducer 74 toward gel pad 78 in hole 82 of cast 8fl.
AMENDED SHEET
EmPfa~6scrm cr.~unr ro.~4 WO 00/76586 o PCT/US00/16190 various shapes and configurations of the self contained ultrasound applicator components are contemplated, as well as various types of construction materials.
All such changes and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
EmPfa~6scrm cr.~unr ro.~4 WO 00/76586 o PCT/US00/16190 various shapes and configurations of the self contained ultrasound applicator components are contemplated, as well as various types of construction materials.
All such changes and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
Claims (8)
1. A self-contained ultrasound applicator (20) comprising:
a main operating unit (22) having as internal power source;
a cantilever (26) connected to, end extending from, said main operating unit (22); and an ultrasonic transducer (32) connected adjacent a distal portion (30) of said cantilever (26), characterized in that the applicator (20) has a cross-sectional profile wherein at least a portion of said cantilever (26) projects downward as it extends from said main operating unit (22) so as to form a first predeterminate angle with a horizontal plane parallel to a bottom surface of said main operating unit to urgingly bias the transducer (32) toward a treatment site when mounted adjacent the treatment site.
a main operating unit (22) having as internal power source;
a cantilever (26) connected to, end extending from, said main operating unit (22); and an ultrasonic transducer (32) connected adjacent a distal portion (30) of said cantilever (26), characterized in that the applicator (20) has a cross-sectional profile wherein at least a portion of said cantilever (26) projects downward as it extends from said main operating unit (22) so as to form a first predeterminate angle with a horizontal plane parallel to a bottom surface of said main operating unit to urgingly bias the transducer (32) toward a treatment site when mounted adjacent the treatment site.
2. A self-contained ultrasound applicator as recited in Claim 1 further comprising a means for removably attaching said applicator to a patient adjacent a treatment site.
3. A self-contained ultrasound applicator as recited is Claim 2 wherein said means for removably attaching said applicator comprises an adjustable strap.
4. A self contained ultrasound applicator recited in Claim 1 wherein said first predetermined angle formed by said downwardly projecting cantilever is in a range of one degree to fifteen degrees.
5. A self-contained ultrasound applicator as recital in Claim 1 wherein said ultrasound transducer tilts downward to form a second predetermined angle with a horizontal plane parallel to a bottom surface of said main operating unit to urgingly bias said transducer toward a treatment site.
6. A self-contained ultrasound applicator as recited is Claim 5 wherein said second predetermined angle is is a range of one degree to twenty degrees.
7. A self-contained ultrasound applicator as recited in claim 1, wherein said cantilever is slidably connected to said main operating unit.
8. A method of therapeutically treating injuries using ultrasound comprising the steps of:
mounting a self-contained ultrasound applicator on a patent, thereby positioning an ultrasonio transducer adjacent a treatment site;
adjusting as attachment member for said self-contained ultrasound applicator to urgingly bias said ultrasonic transducer toward a treatment sift; and exciting said ultrasonic transducer for a period period of time to effect treatment of an injury.
mounting a self-contained ultrasound applicator on a patent, thereby positioning an ultrasonio transducer adjacent a treatment site;
adjusting as attachment member for said self-contained ultrasound applicator to urgingly bias said ultrasonic transducer toward a treatment sift; and exciting said ultrasonic transducer for a period period of time to effect treatment of an injury.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US13912599P | 1999-06-14 | 1999-06-14 | |
| US60/139,125 | 1999-06-14 | ||
| PCT/US2000/016190 WO2000076586A1 (en) | 1999-06-14 | 2000-06-13 | Self-contained ultrasound applicator |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2377441A1 true CA2377441A1 (en) | 2000-12-21 |
Family
ID=22485234
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002377441A Abandoned CA2377441A1 (en) | 1999-06-14 | 2000-06-13 | Self-contained ultrasound applicator |
Country Status (5)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP1200155A1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JP2003501225A (en) |
| AU (1) | AU768476B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2377441A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2000076586A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US6687851B1 (en) | 2000-04-13 | 2004-02-03 | Stratus Technologies Bermuda Ltd. | Method and system for upgrading fault-tolerant systems |
Family Cites Families (10)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BR8107560A (en) | 1981-11-19 | 1983-07-05 | Luiz Romariz Duarte | ULTRASONIC STIMULATION OF BONE FRACTURE CONSOLIDATION |
| US5003965A (en) | 1988-09-14 | 1991-04-02 | Meditron Corporation | Medical device for ultrasonic treatment of living tissue and/or cells |
| US5186162A (en) | 1988-09-14 | 1993-02-16 | Interpore Orthopaedics, Inc. | Ultrasonic transducer device for treatment of living tissue and/or cells |
| US4962758A (en) * | 1988-11-23 | 1990-10-16 | Jeffrey Lasner | Vibratory device for releasing air bubbles trapped in the heart muscle |
| US5556372A (en) | 1995-02-15 | 1996-09-17 | Exogen, Inc. | Apparatus for ultrasonic bone treatment |
| US5762616A (en) * | 1996-03-15 | 1998-06-09 | Exogen, Inc. | Apparatus for ultrasonic treatment of sites corresponding to the torso |
| ES2385305T3 (en) * | 1997-02-06 | 2012-07-20 | Exogen, Inc. | Kit to stimulate cartilage growth |
| CA2285593C (en) * | 1997-04-18 | 2006-11-21 | Exogen, Inc. | Apparatus for ultrasonic bone treatment |
| WO1999002652A1 (en) * | 1997-07-11 | 1999-01-21 | The General Hospital Corporation | Transgenic nematode model of triplet repeat neurological diseases |
| US6007499A (en) * | 1997-10-31 | 1999-12-28 | University Of Washington | Method and apparatus for medical procedures using high-intensity focused ultrasound |
-
2000
- 2000-06-13 EP EP00942777A patent/EP1200155A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2000-06-13 CA CA002377441A patent/CA2377441A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2000-06-13 WO PCT/US2000/016190 patent/WO2000076586A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2000-06-13 AU AU57350/00A patent/AU768476B2/en not_active Ceased
- 2000-06-13 JP JP2001502915A patent/JP2003501225A/en active Pending
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AU768476B2 (en) | 2003-12-11 |
| WO2000076586A1 (en) | 2000-12-21 |
| AU5735000A (en) | 2001-01-02 |
| EP1200155A1 (en) | 2002-05-02 |
| JP2003501225A (en) | 2003-01-14 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |