JP2014061229A - Method for operating cancer treatment apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method for operating a cancer treatment apparatus for treating a cancer by the irradiation of a micro electromagnetic wave capable of further improving a treatment effect and achieving a sufficient treatment effect even for liquid cancer, which can be operated automatically.SOLUTION: The invention is a method for operating a cancer treatment apparatus provided with: a micro electromagnetic wave generating part having at least a pair of mutually opposing magnetrons 60, cylindrical housings 10 having the magnetrons 60 inside, and temperature measuring means capable of acquiring temperature data for a skin surface of a treatment object; a support base 20 on which the treatment object can be placed; first driving means capable of moving the support base 20 in the lateral direction of the support base 20; and second driving means capable of moving the micro electromagnetic wave generating part substantially in parallel along the longitudinal direction of the support base 20.

Description

  The present invention relates to a method for operating a cancer treatment apparatus for treating cancer by irradiating micro electromagnetic waves.

  As a method for treating cancer, a thermotherapy also known as a hyperthermia method and a method of irradiating a micro electromagnetic wave are known. These methods make use of the fact that cancer cells are more susceptible to heat than normal cells. For example, in Patent Document 1, microelectromagnetic waves are emitted from a microelectromagnetic wave generator composed of a magnetron and an electromagnetic wave horn, and active oxygen that is a part of a cancer cell tissue and an electrolyte such as blood that acts on the periphery are microscopically. A cancer cell tissue destruction method using micro electromagnetic waves, characterized in that only cancer cells are destroyed by self-vibration by heating with electric field energy of electromagnetic waves, is disclosed.

International Publication No. 2002/072198

  However, in conventional hyperthermia, a heat shock protein (HSP) is expressed, and cancer cells increase resistance to heat, so that it may be difficult to obtain a sufficient therapeutic effect. In addition, once treatment is performed, it is difficult to obtain an effect for about one week until the influence of HSP disappears, and there is a problem that a sufficient therapeutic effect cannot be obtained. For this reason, in hyperthermia, anticancer agents are often used in combination.

  On the other hand, according to the cancer cell tissue destruction method using micro electromagnetic waves described in Patent Document 1, the combined use with an anticancer agent or the like is unnecessary, and a sufficient therapeutic effect can be obtained as compared with the conventional thermotherapy, but further therapeutic effect. Improvement is demanded. In addition, a method for obtaining a sufficient therapeutic effect on liquid cancer has not been known so far even by a method of irradiating micro electromagnetic waves.

  Therefore, the present invention is a treatment for cancer by irradiation with micro-electromagnetic waves, which has a further improved therapeutic effect and can provide a sufficient therapeutic effect even for liquid cancer and can be automatically operated. An object of the present invention is to provide a method for operating a cancer treatment apparatus.

  In the case of cancer treatment using a cancer treatment device for treating cancer by irradiating micro electromagnetic waves (hereinafter, also referred to as “micro electromagnetic wave treatment device”), for example, in the case of solid cancer, It has been found that the therapeutic effect of solid cancer is remarkably improved by irradiating a wide range of micro electromagnetic waves not only on the tumor forming part to be treated but also on a far part away from the tumor. Further, it has been found that by further expanding the irradiation range of the micro electromagnetic wave, a high therapeutic effect can be obtained even for liquid cancers for which a sufficient therapeutic effect has not been obtained so far. This invention is made | formed by embodying as an operation | movement method of a micro electromagnetic wave therapeutic apparatus based on this novel knowledge.

  That is, the present invention is a method of operating a cancer treatment device for treating cancer by irradiating a micro electromagnetic wave, wherein the cancer treatment device has at least a pair of opposed magnetrons and the magnetron therein. A micro electromagnetic wave generator having a cylindrical housing and a temperature measuring means capable of acquiring temperature data of the skin surface of the treatment target, a support base on which the treatment target can be placed, and the support base short of the support base A first driving means constituted by a ball screw that can be moved in a direction, and a ball screw that can move the micro electromagnetic wave generating part substantially parallel along the longitudinal direction of the support base. A temperature data acquiring step in which the temperature measuring means acquires the temperature data; and the magnetron is a micro drive unit. An irradiation step of irradiating a magnetic wave, a first moving step in which the first driving means moves the support base in a short direction, and a second driving means in which the micro electromagnetic wave generator is placed on the support base. A second moving step for moving the first electromagnetic wave generating portion, the irradiation step, and the first moving until the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit reaches a preset position. Step and the second movement step are performed, and the magnetron interrupts the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave when the value of the temperature data acquired in the temperature data acquisition step exceeds the first set value, and the temperature Provided is a method for operating a cancer treatment device that operates to resume irradiation of a micro electromagnetic wave when a data value falls below a second set value.

  According to the method for operating the cancer treatment apparatus, the therapeutic effect is further improved, and a sufficient therapeutic effect can be obtained even for liquid cancer. That is, since the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit has a process of moving so as to scan the treatment target (first movement process and second movement process), not only the tumor forming part of the treatment target but also a far part away from the tumor Since it is possible to irradiate micro electromagnetic waves over a wide area, the therapeutic effect is further improved even in solid cancer, and sufficient irradiation against liquid cancer is achieved by irradiating the whole body of the treatment target with micro electromagnetic waves. A therapeutic effect can be obtained.

  In addition, the present inventors have found that the treatment target may not be able to withstand heat even though the irradiation time of the micro electromagnetic wave does not reach the necessary time. For this reason, it is necessary to manually repeat the interruption and restart of the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave, which may be complicated. On the other hand, according to the operation method of the cancer treatment device, when the value of the temperature data acquired in the temperature data acquisition step exceeds the first set value, the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave is interrupted, and the value of the temperature data is The cancer treatment apparatus can be automatically operated (automated) by operating so as to resume the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave when it falls below the second set value. Here, for example, the first set value is set to the temperature of the skin surface at which the treatment target cannot withstand heat, and the second set value is set to the temperature of the skin surface of the treatment target before irradiation with the micro electromagnetic wave. .

  Moreover, according to the operating method of the said cancer treatment apparatus, a treatment object can be easily installed between the magnetrons which oppose by providing the said 1st movement process. In addition, by placing the treatment target on the support base, it is possible to position the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit with higher accuracy than when the treatment target is standing or sitting. is there.

  In addition, according to the method of operating the cancer treatment apparatus, it is possible to position the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit with high accuracy by adopting the ball screw as the driving means. For this reason, it becomes possible to move the micro electromagnetic wave generator to a preset position with high accuracy and high reproducibility, and the operation of the cancer treatment apparatus can be automated.

  The micro electromagnetic wave generator includes distance measuring means capable of acquiring distance data between the magnetron and the treatment target, and distance adjusting means capable of moving the magnetron along the inner wall surface of the housing. Furthermore, you may have. Further, in the method of operating the cancer treatment apparatus, the distance measurement means acquires a distance data acquisition step of acquiring distance data between the magnetron and the treatment object, and the distance adjustment means is based on the distance data. And a distance adjusting step of moving the magnetron so that the distance between the magnetron and the treatment target is a preset distance, and the micro electromagnetic wave generator reaches a preset position. The distance data acquisition step and the distance adjustment step may be further performed.

  When the distance adjustment means irradiates a micro electromagnetic wave over a wide range by adjusting the distance between the magnetron and the treatment target to be a preset distance based on the distance data acquired by the distance measurement means Even so, it is possible to irradiate with a constant intensity over the entire range, and the therapeutic effect is remarkably improved.

  In the distance adjusting step, it is preferable to move the magnetron so that the distance between the magnetron and the surface of the skin to be treated is 20 to 30 cm.

  The present inventors have surprisingly found that a very high therapeutic effect can be obtained by irradiating micro electromagnetic waves with a distance between the magnetron and the surface of the skin to be treated being 20 to 30 cm. Therefore, the therapeutic effect by the operating method of the present invention is further improved by setting the distance between the magnetron and the skin surface to be treated to 20 to 30 cm. In addition, by setting such a distance, there is an appropriate space between the treatment target and the cancer treatment apparatus, and thus there is an effect of suppressing fear.

  The frequency of the micro electromagnetic wave is preferably 2.00 to 3.00 GHz. When the frequency is within this range, as described above, the therapeutic effect when the distance between the magnetron and the surface of the skin to be treated is 20 to 30 cm is significantly improved. Moreover, since the output is moderate, the running cost such as electricity bill can be reduced.

  Further, in the method for operating the cancer treatment apparatus, the cancer treatment apparatus further includes a rotating means capable of rotating the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the support base, It is preferable that the rotating means further includes a rotating step of rotating the micro electromagnetic wave generating unit by a predetermined angle within a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the support base.

  By providing such a rotation step, it is possible to irradiate micro electromagnetic waves from different angles, so that it is possible to irradiate treatment objects over a wider range and obtain a higher therapeutic effect. it can.

  The temperature measuring means may be a radiation thermometer. If the temperature measuring means is a radiation thermometer, the temperature data of the surface of the skin to be treated can be easily acquired with sufficient accuracy in real time without contact.

  The distance measuring means may be a laser length measuring device. If the distance measuring means is a laser length measuring device, distance data between the treatment object and the magnetron can be easily acquired with sufficient accuracy.

  According to the operation method of the above cancer treatment apparatus, a sufficient therapeutic effect can be obtained even for a liquid cancer that has not been able to obtain a therapeutic effect unless administered by administration of an anticancer agent or the like so far. Moreover, there is no need to use an anticancer agent or the like together, and there is almost no worry about side effects. Therefore, it can be said that the method of operating the cancer treatment apparatus is suitable for the treatment of liquid cancer.

  According to the present invention, the therapeutic effect is further improved, a sufficient therapeutic effect is obtained even for liquid cancer, and the cancer can be treated by irradiating micro electromagnetic waves that can be automatically driven. A method of operating a cancer treatment device is provided.

  According to the method for operating a cancer treatment apparatus of the present invention, there is no concern about side effects due to the combined use of an anticancer agent and the like, and the physical and mental burden of the treatment target is small and high treatment compared to conventional techniques. An effect is obtained. In addition, treatment is possible even with a stent or metal tooth embedded, which is highly convenient.

It is a model front view which shows one Embodiment of a cancer treatment apparatus. It is a schematic side view which shows one Embodiment of a cancer treatment apparatus. It is a perspective view which shows one Embodiment of a cancer treatment apparatus. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of a drive means. It is a schematic diagram which shows one Embodiment of a micro electromagnetic wave generation | occurrence | production part. It is a schematic diagram which shows one Embodiment of a micro electromagnetic wave generation | occurrence | production part. 2 is a photograph showing a computed tomography (CT) image in Example 1. FIG. 6 is a photograph showing a CT image in Example 2. 10 is a graph showing the transition of blood test results in Example 3. 10 is a photograph showing a CT image in Example 4. 10 is a photograph showing a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) image in Example 5. 10 is a photograph showing an MRI image in Example 6.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted. In addition, the drawings are exaggerated for easy understanding, and the dimensional ratios do not necessarily match those described.

[Cancer treatment device]
The cancer treatment apparatus used in the method for operating a cancer treatment apparatus of the present invention includes at least a pair of opposed magnetrons, a cylindrical housing having magnetrons therein, and a temperature at which temperature data of the skin surface of the treatment target can be acquired. A micro electromagnetic wave generator having a measuring means;
A support table on which a treatment object can be placed;
A first drive means composed of a ball screw capable of moving the support base in the lateral direction of the support base;
And a second driving unit configured by a ball screw capable of moving the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit substantially parallel along the longitudinal direction of the support base.

  The cancer treatment apparatus further includes distance measurement means capable of acquiring distance data between the magnetron and the treatment target, and distance adjustment means capable of moving the magnetron along the inner wall surface of the casing. It may be.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic front view showing an embodiment of a cancer treatment apparatus. FIG. 2 is a schematic side view showing an embodiment of the cancer treatment apparatus. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of the cancer treatment apparatus. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a driving unit. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an embodiment of a micro electromagnetic wave generator. FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing another embodiment of the micro electromagnetic wave generator.

  The cancer treatment apparatus 100 acquires temperature data of a pair of opposing magnetrons 65 (comprising a magnetron head 61 and a magnetron body 60), a cylindrical housing 10 having the magnetron 65 therein, and the skin surface of the treatment target 5. Possible temperature measuring means 75, distance measuring means 70 capable of acquiring distance data between the magnetron 65 and the treatment object 5, and distance adjusting means capable of moving the magnetron 65 along the inner wall surface of the housing 10. A micro electromagnetic wave generator having 80; The micro electromagnetic wave generator is attached to the holder 90 so that a pair of magnetrons 65 are arranged opposite to each other.

  The cancer treatment apparatus 100 further includes a support base 20 on which the treatment target 5 can be placed, and a first drive unit configured by a ball screw that can move the support base 20 in the short direction of the support base 20. And a second screw composed of a ball screw which is arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the support base 20 and can move the holder 90 to which the micro electromagnetic wave generator is attached substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the support base 20. Drive means. By providing the first driving means, the support base 20 is moved in the short direction of the support base 20 (the direction represented by the trajectory B in FIG. 2) while the treatment target 5 is placed on the support base 20. It becomes possible to make it.

<Drive means>
The second drive means in the cancer treatment apparatus 100 includes a guide bar 30, a ball screw 40, a motor 50, and a moving unit 35 attached to the holder 90. A ball screw 40 is disposed in parallel with the guide bar 30, and the ball screw 40 is connected to a motor 50. As the motor 50 rotates, the moving unit 35 can move along the guide bar 30 and the ball screw 40. Accordingly, the holder 90 and the micro electromagnetic wave generator attached to the holder 90 move substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the support base 20. By controlling the rotation speed of the motor 50, the moving distance can be controlled.

  The rotational motion of the motor 50 is converted into a linear motion by the ball screw 40, and the moving unit 35 moves. The motor 50 is preferably a pulse motor because accurate positioning control can be realized. By combining the pulse motor and the ball screw, the moving unit 35 can be positioned with high accuracy and high reproducibility.

  The first driving means in the cancer treatment apparatus 100 has the same configuration as the second driving means, and includes a guide bar, a ball screw, and a motor. The motor is preferably a pulse motor. As the motor rotates, the support base 20 can move along the guide bar and the ball screw. Accordingly, the support base 20 moves in the short direction of the support base 20. The movement distance of the support base 20 can be controlled by controlling the number of rotations of the motor.

  Note that the cancer treatment apparatus may be one that attaches a driving means to a support base and moves the support base in the longitudinal direction of the support base, or may move both the support base and the holder. The cancer treatment apparatus 100 of the present embodiment that moves the holder 90 is preferable from the viewpoint of avoiding the reduction of the therapeutic effect due to the movement of the treatment target and the need for a small installation space.

<Micro electromagnetic wave generator>
The micro electromagnetic wave generation unit has at least a pair of magnetrons housed in a cylindrical casing, and is arranged so that the pair of magnetrons face each other. The treatment target is disposed between the pair of magnetrons facing each other. The micro electromagnetic wave generator also has a temperature measuring means. The micro electromagnetic wave generator may further include a distance measuring unit and a distance adjusting unit.

  Two or more pairs of magnetrons may be arranged. In this case, the paired magnetrons are arranged to face each other.

  FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an embodiment of a micro electromagnetic wave generator. The micro electromagnetic wave generation unit 200 includes a cylindrical casing 10, a magnetron 65, a temperature measurement unit (not shown), a distance measurement unit (not shown), and a distance adjustment unit 80. The magnetron 65 can be moved along the irradiation axis of the micro electromagnetic wave by the distance adjusting means 80.

  FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing another embodiment of the micro electromagnetic wave generator. The micro electromagnetic wave generation unit 210 includes a cylindrical casing (not shown), a magnetron 65, a temperature measurement unit 75, a distance measurement unit 70, and a distance adjustment unit 80. The magnetron 65 can be moved along the irradiation axis of the micro electromagnetic wave by the distance adjusting means 80. In this example, the motor shaft and the magnetron 65 are connected by a wire. Thereby, when the motor rotates and winds the wire, the magnetron 65 can be moved to the motor side. Conversely, when the motor rotates and stretches the wire, the magnetron 65 can be moved away from the motor.

(Magnetron)
The magnetron 65 includes a magnetron main body 60 and a magnetron head 61, and emits a micro electromagnetic wave generated by the micro electromagnetic wave oscillation unit 62 existing in the magnetron main body 60 from the magnetron head 61. The frequency of the micro electromagnetic wave is preferably 1.00 to 5.00 GHz, more preferably 2.00 to 3.00 GHz, and even more preferably 2.45 GHz. The electromagnetic energy of the micro electromagnetic wave is preferably about 500 to 1000 W.

  The micro electromagnetic wave generator disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a configuration in which a micro electromagnetic wave generated from a magnetron is emitted from an electromagnetic wave horn having a variable opening formed integrally with the magnetron, and emits an electromagnetic wave having stronger electromagnetic energy. Have been able to. On the other hand, the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit of the present embodiment has a configuration in which the magnetron 65 is accommodated in the cylindrical housing 10, and the micro electromagnetic waves are emitted from the magnetron head 61 and emitted from the opening of the housing 10. ing. Surprisingly, the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit of the present embodiment can realize a higher therapeutic effect by adopting such a configuration. The reason for this is not necessarily clear, but because the casing 10 is cylindrical, it is possible to suppress the diffusion of micro electromagnetic waves and to irradiate micro electromagnetic waves with stronger electromagnetic energy to the treatment object. Et al.

(Temperature measuring means)
Although it does not restrict | limit especially as the temperature measurement means 75, The thing which can measure the temperature data of the skin surface of a treatment object in sufficient accuracy in real time without contact is preferable. An example of such temperature measuring means is a radiation thermometer. An example of the radiation thermometer is an infrared radiation thermometer.

(Distance measuring means)
The distance measuring means 70 is not particularly limited. For example, the distance measuring means 70 emits ultrasonic waves, lasers, infrared rays, etc., and measures the distance from the time it takes to receive the reflected wave, and uses a camera and image processing. Can be used, for example, a laser length meter.

(Distance adjustment means)
Although it does not restrict | limit especially as the distance adjustment means 80, For example, the combination of a hydraulic jack, a motor, a ball screw, and a motor is mentioned. The distance adjusting unit 80 may include, for example, a guide bar, a ball screw, and a pulse motor, similarly to the first driving unit and the second driving unit described above.

<Rotating means>
The cancer treatment apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment has a rotating plate 32. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, when the rotating plate 32 rotates, the holder 90 rotates along a circular orbit A having the center point C as the center. Thereby, the magnetron 65 which opposes can be rotated in the plane substantially perpendicular | vertical to the longitudinal direction of the support stand 20. FIG.

  Various modifications can be made to the cancer treatment apparatus 100 without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the cancer treatment apparatus 100 may include a display device that displays the status of the magnetron 65 (not shown). As the display device, a device that displays information such as “microwave electromagnetic irradiation”, “operation stopped”, “emergency stop”, etc. in characters, colors, patterns, and the like can be used. Moreover, the treatment target 5 may be provided with a stop device for urgently stopping the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave.

[Method of operating cancer treatment device]
The method for operating the cancer treatment apparatus of the present invention includes a temperature data acquisition step in which the temperature measurement means acquires temperature data of the skin surface to be treated, an irradiation step in which the magnetron irradiates micro electromagnetic waves, and the first drive means, A first moving step for moving the support base in the short direction, and a second driving means for moving the micro electromagnetic wave generator along the longitudinal direction of the support base; The temperature data acquisition process, the irradiation process, the first movement process, and the second movement process are executed until the electromagnetic wave generation unit reaches a preset position, and the magnetron is acquired at the temperature data acquisition process. Operation to stop irradiation of micro electromagnetic waves when the data value exceeds the first set value, and resume irradiation of micro electromagnetic waves when the temperature data value falls below the second set value A.

  The operation method of the cancer treatment apparatus includes a distance data acquisition step in which the distance measurement means acquires distance data between the magnetron and the treatment target, and a distance adjustment means between the magnetron and the treatment target based on the distance data. You may further provide the distance adjustment process which moves a magnetron so that the distance between may become a preset distance.

(In the case of solid cancer)
For example, when the treatment target has a tumor (solid cancer) in the abdomen, the starting point from which the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit starts the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave is set in the chest of the treatment target, and the above-mentioned “preset position” is set in the lower abdomen Set. The irradiation target region set in this way is divided into nine, for example, and these regions are sequentially irradiated with micro electromagnetic waves.

  More specifically, first, the first generation step and the second movement step move the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit to a position where one of the nine divided regions can be irradiated with the micro electromagnetic wave. Subsequently, the micro electromagnetic wave generator irradiates the micro electromagnetic wave. For example, one region is irradiated with micro electromagnetic waves for 1 to 10 seconds, more preferably 3 to 5 seconds, particularly preferably 5 seconds, and this is repeated three times. The interval between irradiation is, for example, 3 seconds. In this way, when the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave to one of the nine divided regions is finished, the micro electromagnetic wave generating unit is again formed in the nine divided regions by the first moving step and the second moving step. Of these, it is moved to one of the unirradiated areas. Subsequently, as described above, the micro electromagnetic wave generator irradiates the micro electromagnetic wave. The above process is performed for all of the nine divided areas.

  During this time, the temperature data acquisition process monitors the temperature data of the skin surface to be treated in real time, and if the acquired temperature data value exceeds the first set value, the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave is interrupted and the temperature When the data value falls below the second set value, the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave is resumed. The first set value is preferably 38 to 39 ° C, and particularly preferably 38.5 ° C. When the temperature of the skin surface of the treatment target reaches this temperature, the treatment target cannot withstand the heat. And when the value of the acquired temperature data falls below the 2nd setting value, irradiation of micro electromagnetic waves is restarted. The second set value is preferably set to the temperature of the skin surface to be treated immediately before the start of the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave. When the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave is resumed after the interruption of the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave due to the temperature data of the skin surface to be treated exceeding the first set value during the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave, It is good to irradiate electromagnetic waves.

  By the above operating method, it is possible to irradiate the micro electromagnetic wave over a wide range not only in the tumor forming part (abdomen) but also in the far part (chest to lower abdomen) away from the tumor. Thereby, the therapeutic effect which was not able to be achieved conventionally can be acquired.

  Further, in the above operation method, the distance measuring unit acquires the distance data between the magnetron and the treatment target, and the distance adjustment unit is configured to detect the distance between the magnetron and the treatment target based on the distance data. A distance adjustment step of moving the magnetron so that the distance between them becomes a preset distance may be performed.

(For liquid cancer)
When the treatment target has liquid cancer, the start point is set at the top of the head, and the “preset position” is set at the tip of the foot. As a result, it is possible to irradiate the whole body with a micro electromagnetic wave, and it is possible to obtain a high therapeutic effect for liquid cancer without using an anticancer agent or the like in combination. .

  Microwaves are sequentially irradiated over the entire irradiation target region set in this way. More specifically, first, the micro electromagnetic wave generator is moved to the starting point by the first moving step and the second moving step. Subsequently, the micro electromagnetic wave generator irradiates the micro electromagnetic wave. In this case, the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit may continue to irradiate the micro electromagnetic wave, and during this time, the first moving step and the second moving step may continuously move the irradiation target portion to be treated. Moreover, you may further combine the rotation process mentioned later with a 1st movement process and a 2nd movement process. The time required for irradiating the whole body of the treatment object with the micro electromagnetic wave is about 5 minutes.

  While performing the above process, the temperature data of the skin surface to be treated is monitored in real time by the temperature data acquisition process. And when the value of the acquired temperature data exceeds a 1st setting value, irradiation of a micro electromagnetic wave, a 1st movement process, and a 2nd movement process are interrupted. Here, when the rotation process is performed, the rotation process is also interrupted. And when the value of temperature data falls below the 2nd setting value, irradiation of a micro electromagnetic wave, the 1st movement process, and the 2nd movement process are restarted. Here, when the rotation process is performed, the rotation process is also restarted. The first set value and the second set value are the same as in the case of the solid cancer described above.

  Hereinafter, each process will be described.

(Temperature data acquisition process)
In the temperature data acquisition step, the temperature measurement means 75 acquires temperature data of the skin surface of the treatment target 5. As described above, in one embodiment, the temperature measuring means 75 is a radiation thermometer.

(Distance data acquisition process)
In the distance data acquisition step, the distance measurement means 70 acquires distance data between the magnetron 65 or the magnetron head 61 and the treatment target 5. As described above, in one embodiment, the distance measuring means 70 is a laser length measuring device. The laser length measuring device has a laser emitter and a laser receiver. The laser length measuring device emits a laser from a laser projector. Subsequently, the laser receiver receives the laser. Based on this result, distance data between the magnetron 65 or the magnetron head 61 and the treatment target 5 is acquired.

(Distance adjustment process)
In the distance adjustment step, the distance adjustment unit 80 moves the magnetron based on the distance data obtained in the distance data acquisition step so that the distance between the magnetron 65 and the treatment target 5 becomes a preset distance.

If the distance between the magnetron 65 and the treatment target 5 is too far, the effect of irradiating the micro electromagnetic wave tends to be difficult to obtain. Further, if the distance between the magnetron 65 and the treatment target 5 is too short, there may be a problem that the treatment target 5 cannot withstand heat. The distance between the magnetron 65 and the treatment target 5 is preferably any of the following (1) to (3). Thereby, a therapeutic effect improves notably.
(1) The distance between the magnetron and the affected area (cancer) to be treated is 20 to 30 cm.
(2) The distance between the magnetron and the skin surface to be treated is 20 to 30 cm.
(3) The distance between a pair of opposing magnetrons is 40-60 cm

  More precisely, the distance between the magnetron (1) and the affected area (cancer) to be treated is the distance between the micro-electromagnetic oscillation part of the magnetron and the affected area (cancer) to be treated. The distance between the magnetron head and the affected area (cancer) to be treated is 10 to 25 cm. In this case, the distance from the skin surface to be treated to the affected area (cancer) is obtained in advance based on the CT image or MRI image, and the distance between the magnetron head and the affected area (cancer) to be treated is 10 to 25 cm. Adjust so that

  The distance between the magnetron (2) and the skin surface to be treated is more precisely the distance between the magnetron micro-electromagnetic wave oscillating portion and the skin surface to be treated. The distance between the magnetron head and the surface of the skin to be treated is 10 to 25 cm.

  The distance between the pair of magnetrons facing each other in (3) above is more precisely the distance between the micro electromagnetic wave oscillation parts of the pair of magnetrons facing each other. The distance between the pair of magnetron heads facing each other is 20 to 50 cm.

  When setting the distance between the magnetron and the treatment target to (1) or (2) above, the distance between the magnetron and the treatment target by the distance adjustment step based on the distance data obtained in the distance data acquisition step Is adjusted. Further, when the distance between the magnetron and the treatment target is set to (3) above, the magnetron is kept fixed at a predetermined position of the cylindrical casing.

  Of the above (1) to (3), the most therapeutic effect can be expected in the case of (1). However, in the case of the above (1), it may be difficult to determine how to set the distance between the magnetron and the treatment target in a remote part away from the affected part (cancer). In addition, it is necessary to know in advance where the affected area (cancer) exists in the body to be treated. In such a case, it is easy to set the distance between the magnetron and the treatment target to (2) above, and even in this case, although it does not reach (1) above, a certain degree of therapeutic effect is obtained. I can expect. Although the therapeutic effect does not reach (1) and (2), it may be set to (3) according to the situation.

(Irradiation process)
In the irradiation process, the magnetron 65 irradiates the micro electromagnetic wave for a certain time. Since the micro electromagnetic wave generators are arranged so that the paired magnetrons 65 are opposed to each other, the micro electromagnetic waves irradiated from the paired magnetrons interfere with each other, and stronger electromagnetic energy is obtained.

  In the irradiation, a stent or a metal tooth may exist. As described above, the frequency of the micro electromagnetic wave irradiated by the magnetron 65 is, for example, 2.00 to 3.00 GHz. The irradiation time of the micro electromagnetic wave also varies depending on the distance between the magnetron 65 and the treatment target 5. More specifically, when the distance between the magnetron 65 and the treatment target 5 is any one of (1) to (3) described above, it is preferably 1 to 10 seconds, and 3 to 5 seconds. It is more preferable. If the irradiation time is within the upper range, the treatment subject feels “heat” less frequently, can obtain a high therapeutic effect, and the expression of heat shock protein (HSP) is suppressed, resulting in a short period of time. It is also possible to perform treatment repeatedly. For example, treatment may be performed twice a day.

(Transfer process)
In the first moving step, the first driving means moves the support base 20 in the short direction. Further, in the second moving step, the second driving unit moves the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit along the longitudinal direction of the support base 20.

(Rotation process)
In one embodiment, the method for operating the cancer treatment apparatus may further include a rotation step. In the rotating step, the rotating means (the rotating plate 32) rotates the micro electromagnetic wave generating portion by a predetermined angle within a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the support base 20. Thereby, it becomes possible to irradiate the treatment object 5 with the micro electromagnetic waves from different angles, and the treatment effect can be further enhanced.

  In the operation method of the cancer treatment apparatus of the present invention, the temperature data acquisition process, the irradiation process, the first movement process and the second movement process, and optionally the distance until the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit reaches a preset position. A data acquisition process, a distance adjustment process, and a rotation process are executed.

  The temperature data acquisition process may be performed continuously during the operation of the cancer treatment apparatus, or may be performed only while the irradiation process is being performed (including the period when the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave is interrupted). In addition, the irradiation process, the first movement process, the second movement process, and the distance data acquisition process, the distance adjustment process, and the rotation process, if present, are executed in any order as long as the effect of the present invention is obtained. May be.

  In addition, the irradiation process, the temperature data acquisition process, the first movement process and the second movement process, and if present, the distance data acquisition process, the distance adjustment process and the rotation process are continuously performed during the operation of the cancer treatment apparatus. May be executed.

(self-driving)
The cancer treatment apparatus can be operated by automatic operation by programming a treatment routine according to each treatment object.

  More specifically, first, the treatment target is placed on the support base. In order to determine the position of the treatment target with good reproducibility, for example, the sole of the foot is aligned with one end of the support base and is used as the starting point. Moreover, in order to determine the position of the treatment target with respect to the short direction of the support table, the upper surface shape of the support table may be formed in a concave shape, a U shape, or a V shape. With this shape, when the treatment target is placed on the support base, the position of the treatment target with respect to the short direction of the support base is automatically determined.

  Subsequently, by manually driving the first driving unit and the second driving unit, and optionally the rotating unit, the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit is moved to the irradiation position of the micro electromagnetic wave. Subsequently, the distance between the magnetron and the skin surface to be treated is adjusted by manually driving the distance adjusting means. When the position of the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit is determined, the position information is stored in the cancer treatment apparatus. By repeating the above operation for all irradiation points of the micro electromagnetic wave, a treatment routine specific to the treatment object can be programmed.

  Once the program is complete, the cancer treatment device can be operated automatically. Such control is called playback control, and it is easy to automatically generate a program by actually moving the position of the micro electromagnetic wave generator to the irradiation position of the micro electromagnetic wave and storing it. . In order to perform playback control, the position of the micro electromagnetic wave generator moved by the first drive means, the second drive means, etc. needs to be automatically quantified, but the first drive means, By realizing the second driving means or the like by a combination of a ball screw and a pulse motor, such a numerical value can be easily obtained.

  In addition, it is possible to automate the interruption and resumption of the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave based on the temperature data of the skin surface to be treated. In this case, only in the first time, the treatment routine program is executed with the treatment target undressed. When the temperature data value acquired in the temperature data acquisition process exceeds the first set value, the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave is interrupted, and when the temperature data value falls below the second set value, the micro electromagnetic wave Resume irradiation. At this time, the irradiation position of the micro electromagnetic wave and the time information of interruption and resumption are stored in the cancer treatment apparatus and added to the program. In the treatment after the next time, the interruption and resumption pattern of the micro electromagnetic wave can be automatically reproduced when the program is executed. In this case, the treatment subject may receive treatment while wearing clothes.

[Target cancer]
The method of operating a cancer treatment device can target any cancer. The cancer may be a solid cancer or a liquid cancer. More specifically, tongue cancer, gingival cancer, malignant melanoma, maxillary cancer, nasal cancer, nasal cavity cancer, laryngeal cancer, pharyngeal cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, gallbladder cancer, duodenal cancer, Colorectal cancer, hepatoblastoma, uterine sarcoma, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, renal cancer, bladder cancer, prostate cancer, rhabdomyosarcoma, fibrosarcoma, osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, synovial sarcoma, myxosarcoma, liposarcoma, Examples include Ewing sarcoma, skin cancer, brain tumor, neuroblastoma, glioma, meningioma, glioma, leukemia, malignant lymphoma, multiple myeloma, primary macroglobulinemia and the like.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to examples.

[Treatment with micro electromagnetic waves]
Using the cancer treatment apparatus shown in FIG. 1 (however, the apparatus does not have the rotating plate 32), the irradiation time of one micro electromagnetic wave is set to 3 seconds (interval 2 seconds), and the frequency of the micro electromagnetic wave is set to 2.45 GHz. did. The irradiation range is as described in each example.

[Example 1]
(Uterine sarcoma)
Without anticancer drug treatment, a patient with uterine sarcoma (56 years old, female) who was declared to have a life expectancy of 6 months to 2 years was treated with micro electromagnetic waves. The irradiation range was from the upper abdomen to the lower abdomen. The distance between the magnetron and the surface of the skin to be treated (the distance between the magnetron microelectromagnetic wave oscillating portion and the surface of the skin to be treated) was set to 30 cm. As a result of 72 times of irradiation of micro electromagnetic waves from January 2007 to January 2008, cancer disappeared. In addition, ascites at the bottom of the pelvis almost disappeared. The results are shown in FIG. FIG. 7A is a photograph showing a CT image of this patient on July 19, 2007. Squares in the figure indicate enlarged lymph glands around the aorta. FIG. 7B is a photograph showing a CT image of this patient on July 11, 2008. Squares in the figure indicate regions corresponding to the squares and arrows in FIG. In the CT image of July 19, 2007, there was an enormous lymph gland around the aorta, in the vicinity of the aortic bifurcation, and around the right iliac artery, but in the CT image of July 11, 2008, all lymph glands The swelling of the diminished. As of March 2012, there are no abnormalities in this patient.

[Example 2]
(lung cancer)
A patient (63 years old, male) in whom four tumors (maximum 13 mm) were found in the lung was treated with micro electromagnetic waves. The irradiation range was the entire chest. The distance between the magnetron and the surface of the skin to be treated (the distance between the magnetron microelectromagnetic wave oscillating portion and the surface of the skin to be treated) was set to 30 cm. The patient suffered from a cough, but the cough disappeared immediately as a result of exposure to micro-electromagnetic waves. As a result of performing 18 times of micro electromagnetic wave irradiation from June to August 2010, all the tumors disappeared. The results are shown in FIG. FIG. 8A is a photograph showing a CT image of this patient on April 13, 2010. A tumor was observed in the square in the figure. FIG. 8B is a photograph showing a CT image of this patient on July 20, 2010. A square in the figure indicates a region corresponding to the square in FIG. It was confirmed that the tumor had disappeared. As of February 2012, there are no abnormalities in this patient.

Example 3
(Malignant lymphoma)
A patient (60 years old, male) who was strongly suspected of acute lymphoblastic leukemia was treated with whole body irradiation of micro electromagnetic waves. Whole body irradiation was performed in about 5 minutes. The distance between the magnetron and the surface of the skin to be treated (the distance between the magnetron microelectromagnetic wave oscillating portion and the surface of the skin to be treated) was set to 30 cm. After 4 days of treatment, leukemia cells disappeared and the diagnosis was changed to malignant follicular lymphoma. Several lymph glands in the body were swollen, but the subsequent irradiation with micro-electromagnetic waves almost reduced except that the right cervical lymph gland was slightly swollen. After about 2 months from the start of treatment, all blood test results were also normal. He had no side effects, improved physical condition and returned to work. The results are shown in FIG. FIG. 9A is a graph showing changes in the number of red blood cells (× 10 ⁴ cells / mm ³ ), the ratio of pathological cells (%), and the ratio of lymphocytes (%). The horizontal axis shows the inspection date. An asterisk indicates a day when micro electromagnetic wave (MW) irradiation was performed. FIG. 9B is a graph showing the transition of the white blood cell count (cells / mm ³ ). The horizontal axis shows the inspection date. An asterisk indicates a day when micro electromagnetic wave (MW) irradiation was performed. FIG. 9C is a graph showing the transition of the test results for acetylcholine and telomere. The horizontal axis shows the inspection date. An asterisk indicates a day when micro electromagnetic wave (MW) irradiation was performed.

Example 4
(lung cancer)
A patient with fast-growing lung cancer (58 years old, female) was treated with micro electromagnetic waves. The irradiation range was the entire chest. The distance between the magnetron and the surface of the skin to be treated (the distance between the magnetron microelectromagnetic wave oscillating portion and the surface of the skin to be treated) was set to 30 cm. As a result of irradiation with micro electromagnetic waves five times from January 23rd to 30th, 2004, the tumor disappeared. The results are shown in FIG. FIG. 10A is a photograph showing a CT image of this patient on January 17, 2004. Tumors of 2 to 3 cm were observed in the squares in the figure. FIG. 10B is a photograph showing a CT image of this patient on November 15, 2004. Squares in the figure indicate regions corresponding to the squares in FIG. It was confirmed that the tumor had disappeared. Until August 2007, micro-electromagnetic waves were frequently irradiated for the purpose of preventing recurrence. However, since no abnormality was observed thereafter, no micro-electromagnetic waves were irradiated. As of August 2009, no abnormalities were observed in this patient, and only follow-up thereafter.

Example 5
(Nasopharyngeal carcinoma and brain metastases)
Since nasopharyngeal cancer had metastasized to the cervical lymph nodes, the same part was removed in March 2002, and a patient (49 years old, male) who received anticancer drug and radiation therapy was treated with micro electromagnetic waves. The irradiation range was from the head to the front chest. The distance between the magnetron and the surface of the skin to be treated (the distance between the magnetron microelectromagnetic wave oscillating portion and the surface of the skin to be treated) was set to 30 cm. In May 2002, micro electromagnetic waves were irradiated for 4 consecutive days. After that, although it had been favorable, on January 19, 2005, it was pointed out that it had spread to the left temporal lobe, parietal lobe, and lateral temporal gyrus. Therefore, micro electromagnetic waves were irradiated twice a day for 3 days from January 20, 2005. Thereafter, the micro-electromagnetic wave was irradiated 14 times in total in November and December 2005. No tumor was observed on the MRI image of January 27, 2006. The results are shown in FIG. FIG. 11A is a photograph showing an MRI image of this patient on January 19, 2005. A tumor was observed in the square in the figure. FIG. 11 (B) is a photograph showing an MRI image of this patient on December 16, 2008. A square in the figure indicates a region corresponding to the square in FIG. It was confirmed that the tumor had disappeared.

Example 6
(Brain tumor)
A patient with a cerebellar (medullary) tumor (39 years old, female) was treated with micro-electromagnetic waves. The irradiation range was from the back of the head to the upper front chest. The distance between the magnetron and the surface of the skin to be treated (the distance between the magnetron microelectromagnetic wave oscillating portion and the surface of the skin to be treated) was set to 30 cm. The patient complained of numbness in the upper right half of the body, but as a result of irradiating micro electromagnetic waves 40 times from July 2007 to June 2008, the patient hardly felt numbness. The results are shown in FIG. FIG. 12A is a photograph showing an MRI image of this patient on May 28, 2007. Squares and arrows in the figure indicate that the tumor is compressing the lower medulla. FIG. 12B is a photograph showing an MRI image of this patient on February 25, 2010. Squares and arrows in the figure indicate regions corresponding to the squares and arrows in FIG. The tumor was confirmed to have shrunk. The patient is fine in May 2012.

Example 7
(Examination of distance between magnetron and treatment target)
Lung cancer patients were treated with micro electromagnetic waves. The irradiation range was the entire chest. For the first two months, the distance between the magnetron and the surface of the skin to be treated (the distance between the magnetron micro-electromagnetic wave oscillator and the surface of the skin to be treated) is set to 30 cm, and once a week for one month. Irradiated with micro electromagnetic waves. As a result, the tumor marker CEA improved from 7.9 ng / ml before treatment to 5.9 ng / ml. Then, the distance between the magnetron and the surface of the skin to be treated (the distance between the magnetron's micro-electromagnetic wave oscillating portion and the surface of the skin to be treated) is set to 50 cm, and the micro-electromagnetic wave once a week for one month. Was irradiated. As a result, CEA increased to 6.9 ng / ml. Subsequently, the distance between the magnetron and the skin surface of the treatment target (the distance between the magnetron microelectromagnetic wave oscillating portion and the skin surface of the treatment target) is set to 30 cm, and the micro electromagnetic wave is applied once a week for one month. Irradiated. As a result, CEA was improved to 6.0 ng / ml. From the above results, it was considered that the therapeutic effect was high when the distance between the magnetron and the skin surface of the treatment target (the distance between the microelectromagnetic wave oscillating portion of the magnetron and the skin surface of the treatment target was 30 cm or less.

[Experimental Example 1]
(Examination of the distance between the magnetron and the surface of the skin to be treated and the irradiation time of the micro electromagnetic wave)
As a result of setting the distance between the magnetron head and the skin surface to be treated to 25 cm (30 cm as the distance between the magnetron micro-electromagnetic wave oscillating portion and the skin surface to be treated) and irradiating the micro-electromagnetic wave for 5 seconds, The treatment subject did not complain of fever. Next, the distance between the magnetron head and the surface of the skin to be treated is adjusted to 2 cm (the distance between the magnetron micro-electromagnetic wave oscillating portion and the surface of the skin to be treated is 7 cm), and the micro-electromagnetic wave is irradiated for 2 to 3 seconds. As a result, the treatment subject could not withstand the heat. Further, the distance between the magnetron head and the surface of the skin to be treated was set to 25 cm (30 cm as the distance between the magnetron micro-electromagnetic wave oscillating portion and the surface of the skin to be treated), and the micro-electromagnetic wave was irradiated for 10 seconds. As a result, the treatment subject could not withstand the heat. From the above results, the therapeutic effect is obtained when the distance between the micro electromagnetic wave oscillating part of the magnetron and the surface of the skin to be treated is 30 cm, and the irradiation time of the micro electromagnetic wave is 1 to 10 seconds, more preferably 3 to 5 seconds. It was considered expensive.

[Experiment 2]
(Examination of micro electromagnetic wave irradiation and temperature of skin surface to be treated)
The temperature of the skin surface at which the treatment target cannot withstand the heat when irradiated with micro electromagnetic waves was examined. An infrared radiation thermometer was used for temperature measurement. As a result, it has been clarified that the temperature at which the treatment target cannot withstand heat is almost constant regardless of the treatment target, and that the temperature of the skin surface exceeds 38.5 ° C. cannot be withstand the heat.

  5 ... treatment target, 10 ... housing, 20 ... support base, 30 ... guide bar, 32 ... rotating plate, 35 ... moving part, 40 ... ball screw, 50・ ・ ・ Motor, 60 ... magnetron main body, 61 ... magnetron head, 62 ... micro electromagnetic wave oscillating unit, 65 ... magnetron, 70 ... distance measuring means, 75 ... temperature measuring means , 80... Distance adjusting means, 90... Holder, 100... Cancer treatment device, 200, 210.

Claims (8)

A method of operating a cancer treatment device for treating cancer by irradiating with a micro electromagnetic wave,
The cancer treatment device comprises:
A micro electromagnetic wave generator having at least a pair of opposing magnetrons, a cylindrical housing having the magnetron therein, and temperature measuring means capable of acquiring temperature data of the surface of the skin to be treated;
A support base on which the treatment target can be placed; and a first drive means configured by a ball screw capable of moving the support base in a lateral direction of the support base;
A second driving means composed of a ball screw capable of moving the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit substantially parallel along the longitudinal direction of the support base,
A temperature data acquiring step in which the temperature measuring means acquires the temperature data;
An irradiation process in which the magnetron irradiates a micro electromagnetic wave;
A first moving step in which the first driving means moves the support base in a lateral direction;
The second driving means includes a second moving step of moving the micro electromagnetic wave generating unit along the longitudinal direction of the support;
Until the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit reaches a preset position, the temperature data acquisition step, the irradiation step, the first movement step and the second movement step are executed,
When the value of the temperature data acquired in the temperature data acquisition process exceeds the first set value, the magnetron interrupts the irradiation of the micro electromagnetic wave, and the value of the temperature data falls below the second set value. A method of operating a cancer treatment device that operates to resume irradiation of micro electromagnetic waves in some cases. A distance measuring unit capable of acquiring distance data between the magnetron and the treatment target, and a distance adjusting unit capable of moving the magnetron along the inner wall surface of the housing; In addition,
The distance measurement means acquires distance data between the magnetron and the treatment object, and the distance data acquisition step, and the distance adjustment means, based on the distance data, between the magnetron and the treatment object. A distance adjusting step of moving the magnetron so that the distance becomes a preset distance;
The operation method according to claim 1, wherein the distance data acquisition step and the distance adjustment step are further performed until the micro electromagnetic wave generation unit reaches a preset position.   The operation method according to claim 2, wherein the distance measuring means is a laser length measuring device.   The operating method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the distance adjusting means moves the magnetron so that a distance between the magnetron and the surface of the skin to be treated is 20 to 30 cm.   The operating method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a frequency of the micro electromagnetic wave is 2.00 to 3.00 GHz. The cancer treatment apparatus further includes a rotating means capable of rotating the micro electromagnetic wave generating unit in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the support base,
The rotating means further includes a rotating step of rotating the micro electromagnetic wave generating unit in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the support;
The operation method according to any one of claims 1 to 5.   The operation method according to claim 1, wherein the temperature measuring unit is a radiation thermometer.   The operation method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the cancer is a liquid cancer.