WO2024050005A2 - Implantable access port device for localized treatments and measurements, and method of using same - Google Patents

Abstract

A delivery device for use in magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT) includes a guide that is configured for subcutaneous implantation to treat a malignant tumor. The guide includes a first port for delivering a therapeutic agent to the malignant tumor and a second port, independent and separated from the first port, for delivering a measurement probe to a location at or proximate the malignant tumor. The guide is configured to provide tactile feedback to a user post implantation such that an entrance to the first port is tactilely distinguishable from an entrance to the second port by tactile feedback to the user.

Description

IMPLANTABLE ACCESS PORT DEVICE FOR LOCALIZED TREATMENTS AND MEASUREMENTS, AND METHOD OF USING SAME

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to and the benefit of US patent application Serial No. 63/403,000, filed September 1, 2022, which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to a medical device and, more specifically, to implantable access port devices that provide access to localized internal treatment and/or measurement zone(s) in a body.

BACKGROUND

[0003] High-grade gliomas (HGG) are the most common primary brain malignancy, with approximately 25,000 new cases per year in the United States. HGG’s are highly resistant to traditional forms of therapy, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Furthermore, studies have shown that 90% of HGG’s recur locally and progress. Based on these factors, there had not been a long-established standard of care treatment for recurrent HGG and diagnoses had been accompanied with poor prognoses, with median survival being 15 months from initial diagnosis.

[0004] More recently, Magnetic Hyperthermia Therapy (MHT) intervention has shown efficacy in treating HGG. MHT involves delivering nanoparticles that are made of a ferromagnetic material — for example, Iron Oxide nanoparticles (IONP’S) — directly to a HGG lesion. The nanoparticles are then exposed to an alternating magnetic field (AMF), which causes the nanoparticles to oscillate, generate heat, and thereby kill the cancer cells. The MHT therapy is conducted for an hour, usually three times a week, for six weeks. Due to its efficacy, this technique is currently cleared for clinical use in the European Union (“EU”).

[0005] As a hyperthermia therapy on a region with surrounding sensitive brain tissue, there is a need for accurate temperature measurements in and around a treated lesion. However, the ferromagnetic nature of the particles (e.g., IONP’s) prevents the use of magnetic resonance (MR) thermometry to accurately measure the intralesional temperature during therapy. This poses a risk for the patient because there is no way to know if overheating is taking place within the lesion, which can cause damage to healthy tissue surrounding the lesion. [0006] Accordingly, modeling software has been used to calculate estimated maximum temperatures that would be reached during an intervention as a planning device. Such estimates are calculated using the volume of IONP’S, the AMF field, and other factors. While such planning provides for some safety in the planning stages of any intervention(s), it still fails to provide feedback and monitoring during and after an intervention. As such, there are inaccuracies and imperfections in this strategy.

[0007] U.S Patent No. 8,827,987 to Fielder et al. discloses a percutaneous drug delivery apparatus that provides drug delivery access to one or more implanted catheters in the cranium. However, the disclosed apparatus fails to provide meaningful measurement access to each treatment location of the one or more implanted catheters.

SUMMARY

[0008] In view of the above shortcomings, the present disclosure provides an implantable access port device that serves to guide therapeutics, along with a non-magnetic measurement probe, directly to a localized area. The implantable device provides the ability to continuously measure properties of a treated lesion (or malignant tumor), such as temperature during hyperthermia therapy.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the implantable device incorporates a double barrel design having a sheath for inserting a measurement probe to run alongside a delivery lumen for the nanoparticles. Thus, the probe is guided directly to a center of treatment in the lesion without interfering in the probe’s measurements. According to an embodiment, the probe is not magnetically active and, therefore, is safe to be inside of the patient while they are being exposed to an external magnetic field. By enabling access to perioperative lesion status, such as real time temperature measurements, the therapy provider is given more control by allowing adjustments to the MHT treatment based on lesional temperature. This adjustability can maximize the efficacy of MHT therapy, while minimizing its negative side effects. Thus, the ability to continually measure perioperative lesion status within an HGG lesion during MHT improves the safety and the efficacy of MHT. Furthermore, having a real time temperature measurement from within the lesion replaces the need for gratuitous pre- and post-operative scans to re-establish the dimensions of a tumor for the aforementioned planning software.

[0010] With the advantages provided by the implantable device of the present disclosure, the efficacy, safety, and applicability of MHT is further improved. MHT is noninvasive and does not involve ionizing radiation, which prevents the risk of reirradiation injury for patients who have already exhausted all other options for treatment, as well as allowing for patients to undergo multiple courses of MHT. Thus, the implantable device of the present disclosure is usable in MHT for any solid tumor cancer, including prostate cancer and other more common cancers, especially those that are difficult to resect surgically.

[0011] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a delivery device for use in magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT), comprises: a guide that is configured for subcutaneous implantation to treat a malignant tumor, the guide comprising: a first port for delivering a therapeutic agent to the malignant tumor; and a second port, independent and separated from the first port, for delivering a measurement probe to a location at or proximate the malignant tumor; wherein the guide is configured to provide tactile feedback to a user post implantation such that an entrance to the first port is tactilely distinguishable from an entrance to the second port by tactile feedback to the user.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, the guide comprises a base portion that surrounds the first and second ports, the first port having a first upper portion that is formed above the base portion and a first lower portion that is formed below the base portion, the second port having a second upper portion that is formed above the base portion and a second lower portion that is formed below the base portion, the first upper portion defining an entrance to the first port and the second upper portion defining an entrance to the second port.

[0013] According to an embodiment, the first upper portion has an angled surface that leads to an inner lumen of the first port and the second upper portion has an angled surface that leads to an inner lumen of the second port.

[0014] According to an embodiment, a height of the first upper portion is less than a height of the second upper portion relative to an upper surface of the base portion.

[0015] According to an embodiment, the first upper portion has a circular shape and the second upper portion has a circular shape with the second upper portion partially overlapping the first upper portion.

[0016] According to an embodiment, the first lower portion comprises a first tubular structure and the second lower portion comprises a second tubular structure.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the first and second tubular structures are parallel to one another.

[0018] According to an embodiment, lengths of the first and second tubular sections are the same.

[0019] According to an embodiment, lengths of the first and second tubular sections are different. [0020] According to an embodiment, a distance between the first and second tubular structures is 9 mm or less. In addition, the inner diameter of each of the first and second tubular structures can be 2 mm and both can have a length of 10.5 mm from the base of the device body.

[0021] According to an embodiment, the delivery device, further comprises at least one hollow extender for coupling to one of the first lower portion and the second lower portion for extension thereof.

[0022] According to an embodiment, the base portion is formed of a first material and the first and second ports are formed of a second material different than the first material.

[0023] According to an embodiment, the first material is more flexible than the second material.

[0024] According to an embodiment, a width of the first lower portion is different than a width of the second lower portion.

[0025] According to an embodiment, the tactile feedback comprises a stepped construction between the entrances to the first port and the second port.

[0026] According to an embodiment, the guide is formed of a single material.

[0027] In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a kit for use in magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT) of a malignant tumor, comprises: a first instrument that is configured to deliver a therapeutic agent to the malignant tumor for treatment thereof; a second instrument that is configured to measure a property of the malignant tumor; and a delivery device in the form of a guide that is configured for subcutaneous implantation, the guide having a first port for receiving the first instrument and delivering the therapeutic agent to the malignant tumor and a second port, independent and separated from the first port, for receiving and delivering the second instrument to a location at or proximate the malignant tumor.

[0028] According to an embodiment, the first instrument comprises a source of ferromagnetic nanoparticles that are delivered to the malignant tumor and is configured to inject the ferromagnetic nanoparticles into the malignant tumor.

[0029] According to an embodiment, the second instrument is configured to measure a temperature of the malignant tumor and/or a temperature of tissue surrounding the malignant tumor.

[0030] According to an embodiment, the second instrument comprises a plurality of temperature probes that are adapted for insertion through both the first port and the second port during a therapy application process. [0031] According to an embodiment, the guide is configured to provide tactile feedback to a user post implantation such that an entrance to the first port is tactilely distinguishable from an entrance to the second port by tactile feedback to the user.

[0032] According to an embodiment, the guide includes a base portion that surrounds the first and second ports, the first port having a first upper portion that is formed above the base portion and a first lower portion that is formed below the base portion, the second port having a second upper portion that is formed above the base portion and a second lower portion that is formed below the base portion, the first upper portion defining an entrance to the first port and the second upper portion defining an entrance to the second port.

[0033] According to an embodiment, the first upper portion has an angled surface that leads to an inner lumen of the first port and the second upper portion has an angled surface that leads to an inner lumen of the second port.

[0034] According to an embodiment, a height of the first upper portion is less than a height of the second upper portion relative to an upper surface of the base portion.

[0035] According to an embodiment, the first upper portion has a circular shape and the second upper portion has a circular shape with the second upper portion partially overlapping the first upper portion.

[0036] According to an embodiment, the first lower portion comprises a first tubular structure and the second lower portion comprises a second tubular structure.

[0037] According to an embodiment, the first and second tubular structures are parallel to one another.

[0038] According to an embodiment, lengths of the first and second tubular sections are the same.

[0039] According to an embodiment, lengths of the first and second tubular sections are different.

[0040] According to an embodiment, a distance between the first and second tubular structures is 9 mm or less.

[0041] According to an embodiment, the kit further comprises at least one hollow extender for coupling to one of the first lower portion and the second lower portion for extension thereof.

[0042] According to an embodiment, the base portion is formed of a first material and the first and second ports are formed of a second material different than the first material.

[0043] According to an embodiment, the first material is more flexible than the second material. [0044] According to an embodiment, a width of the first lower portion is different than a width of the second lower portion.

[0045] According to an embodiment, the tactile feedback comprises a stepped construction between the entrances to the first port and the second port.

[0046] According to an embodiment, the second instrument comprises a non-magnetic fiber optic temperature measurement probe.

[0047] According to an embodiment, the malignant tumor comprises a high-grade glioma.

[0048] According to an embodiment, the guide is formed of a single material.

[0049] In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a delivery device and guide for use in magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT), comprises: an implantable body that is configured for subcutaneous implantation to treat a malignant tumor, the implantable body having a base portion, an integral first port for delivering a therapeutic agent to the malignant tumor and/or delivering a first measurement probe to the malignant tumor and an integral second port, independent and separated from the first port, for delivering a second measurement probe to a location at or proximate the malignant tumor; wherein an entrance to the first port is located above an upper surface of the base portion and is elevated a first distance from the upper surface and an entrance to the second port is located above the upper surface of the base portion and is elevated a second distance from the upper surface, the first distance being different than the second distance.

[0050] According to an embodiment, the first distance is less than the second distance.

[0051] According to an embodiment, the first distance is greater than the second distance.

[0052] In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for performing magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT) on a patient comprises the steps of: subcutaneously implanting a delivery device within the patient in view of a location of a target lesion to be treated, the delivery device having a first port for delivering a therapeutic agent to the target lesion and a second port, independent and separated from the first port, for delivering a measurement probe to a location at or proximate the target lesion; delivering the therapeutic agent through the first port to the target lesion; delivering a first temperature probe through the first port and a second temperature probe through the second port; and applying an alternating magnetic field to the target lesion to cause activation of the therapeutic agent and measuring, in real time, temperatures at the first and second temperature probes. [0053] According to an embodiment, the method further comprises the steps of: making an incision in a scalp of the patient, whereby a skin flap is formed; drilling a burr hole in a skull of the patient; positioning the delivery device such that the first and second ports extend through the burr hole; and closing and suturing the skin flap. In one embodiment, the burr hole is a 10 mm burr hole.

[0054] According to an embodiment, the step of delivering the therapeutic agent to the target lesion comprises the steps of: inserting a first angiocatheter into the first port, wherein the first port is located at least in part by using tactile feedback from palpitating tissue of the patient; coupling a fluid pump to the first angiocatheter, the first pump being in fluid communication with a source of the therapeutic agent; infusing the therapeutic agent into the target lesion by operating the fluid pump; and removing the first angiocatheter when the infusion is complete.

[0055] According to an embodiment, the step of delivering the first temperature probe and the second temperature probe comprises the steps of: inserting a first angiocatheter into the first port, wherein the first port is located at least in part by using tactile feedback from palpitating tissue of the patient; inserting a second angiocatheter into the second port, wherein the second port is located based at least in part on the tactile feedback; inserting the first temperature probe into and through the first angiocatheter and inserting the second temperature probe into and through the second angiocatheter with the first temperature probe being located at a location of the target lesion and a location of the infused therapeutic agent, while the second temperature probe is located at a periphery of the target lesion or a location adjacent to the target lesion; and removing the first and second temperature probes and the first and second angiocatheters upon completion of therapy and upon deactivation of the applied magnetic field. [0056] According to an embodiment, each of the first temperature probe and the second temperature probe comprises a fiber optic temperature probe.

[0057] According to an embodiment, the method further comprises the step of: palpitating tissue of the patient to locate at least one of the first port and the second port using tactile feedback before one of the therapeutic agent delivering step and the temperature probe delivering step.

[0058] According to an embodiment, the therapeutic agent comprises ferromagnetic nanoparticles and the target lesion comprises a high-grade glioma. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0059] Various example implementations of this disclosure will be described in detail, with reference to the following figures, wherein:

[0060] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an implantable access port device that provides for delivering a therapeutic agent, such as ferromagnetic nanoparticles in an MHT treatment, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of the device shown in FIG. 1.

[0062] FIG. 3A is another side elevation view of the device shown in FIG. 1 that is orthogonal from the view shown in FIG. 2

[0063] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 3 A.

[0064] FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of a device with an alternative structural arrangement according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the device shown in FIG. 4 implanted on the cranium of a patient in accordance with an example implementation of the present disclosure.

[0066] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an implantation process 600 for a device according to one example implementation of the present disclosure.

[0067] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of an infusion process of delivering a therapeutic agent (e.g., ferromagnetic nanoparticles) after a device has been implanted according to one example implementation of the present disclosure.

[0068] FIG. 8A is a schematic cross-sectional view of an implanted device during an angiocatheter insertion step in the infusion process of FIG. 7 in accordance with an example implementation of the present disclosure.

[0069] FIG. 8B is a closeup schematic view of FIG. 8A.

[0070] FIG. 8C is a closeup schematic view of FIG 8 A after an angiocatheter insertion is completed.

[0071] FIG. 9A is a schematic cross-sectional view of an implanted device during a ferromagnetic particle delivery step in the infusion process of FIG. 7 in accordance with an example implementation of the present disclosure.

[0072] FIG. 9B is a closeup schematic view of FIG. 9A.

[0073] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of a therapy process of activating a therapeutic agent

(e.g., heating the ferromagnetic nanoparticles) after it is delivered according to one example implementation of the present disclosure. [0074] FIG. 11A is a schematic cross-sectional view of an implanted device after a temperature probe insertion step in the therapy process of FIG. 10 has been completed in accordance with an example implementation of the present disclosure.

[0075] FIG. 1 IB is a closeup schematic view of FIG. 11 A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS

[0076] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an implantable access port device 100 that provides for delivering a therapeutic agent, such as ferromagnetic nanoparticles in an MHT treatment, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of device 100 shown in FIG. 1. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the implantable access port device (or delivery device) 100 incorporates a base portion 105 that generally divides device 100 into an upper portion 110 and a lower portion 115. According to an exemplary embodiment, upper portion 110 of device 100 incorporates a first insertion port 120 and a second insertion port 125 atop a raised platform 130 on a top surface of base portion 105. As illustrated in FIG. 1, base portion 105 has an overall oval shape to accommodate the laterally adjacent arrangement of insertion ports 120 and 125 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In embodiments, base portion 105 — and, correspondingly, platform 130 — can have alternative shapes without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, ports 120 and 125 can be integrated directly on a top surface, which can be a flat top surface, of base portion 105 in certain embodiments. As further illustrated in FIG. 1, port 120 incorporates an angled insertion guide surface 140 and port 125 incorporates an angled insertion guide surface 145. According to one implementation of the present disclosure, angled insertion guide surface 140 forms a conical funnel to a bottom opening 150 as a lateral insertion guide for a needle, a catheter, a fiber optic probe, and the like, to bottom opening 150. Correspondingly, angled insertion guide surface 145 also forms a conical funnel to a bottom opening 155 as a lateral insertion guide thereto according to an implementation of the present disclosure. In embodiments, guide surfaces 140 and 145 can incorporate multiple angled interior walls — for example, four slanted walls to form a pyramidal funnel — instead of a rounded conical funnel.

[0077] As illustrated in FIG. 1, port 125 is larger than port 120, with a larger top opening and with guide surface 145 having a larger overall surface area than guide surface 140. Correspondingly, as shown in FIG. 2, port 125 has a larger height than port 120 such that a top surface 225 of port 125 extends higher from base portion 105 than a top surface 220 of port 120 in upper portion 110 of device 100. As will be described in further detail, the larger dimensions of port 125 relative to port 120 serves as a guide that provides tactile feedback through the skin of a patient when device 100 is subcutaneously implanted. In other words, a care provider (or user) can palpate the patient’s skin in the area at which device 100 is implanted and feel the size difference between ports 120 and 125. Advantageously, this tactile feedback allows the care provider to noninvasively and readily distinguish between ports 120 and 125 and thereby identify the target regions to which ports 120 and 125 are directed, respectively. Thus, the care giver can insert appropriate instruments (such as an angiocatheter for nanoparticle delivery, an optical thermal probe, and the like) through ports 120 and 125, respectively, based on the tactile feedback and without any permanent or semi-permanent opening in the skin of the patient. In other words, device 100 embodies a tactile feedback guide post implantation by providing sufficient fiducial markers to allow for percutaneous access using palpation, as will be described in further detail below.

[0078] As further illustrated in FIG. 2, lower portion 115 of device 100 incorporates a first tubular extension (or tubular structure) 160 corresponding to insertion port 120 and a second tubular extension (or tubular structure) 165 corresponding to insertion port 125. FIG. 2 shows tubular structure 160 having a smaller size than tubular structure 165 in correspondence with the size difference between port 120 and 125 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As will be described in further detail, structure 160 and structure 165 can have the same dimensions such that their interior channels and, correspondingly, openings 150 and 155 shown in FIG. 1 can have the same size for inserting similarly dimensioned instruments.

[0079] FIG. 3A is a side elevation view that is orthogonal from the view illustrated in FIG. 2 of device 100 for defining a cross section across line 3B-3B, the view of which is shown in FIG. 3B. As shown in FIG. 3B, opening 150 of port 120 leads to (integrates and is in fluid communication with) an inner lumen (or interior channel) 180 of tubular structure 160. Correspondingly, opening 155 of port 125 leads to (integrates and is in fluid communication with) an inner lumen (or interior channel) 185 of tubular structure 165. Thus, once device 100 is subcutaneously implanted in a patient, a care giver can locate device 100 by feeling for platform 130 and/or ports 120 and 125, and insert the appropriate instruments through the patient’s skin to channels 180 and 185, respectively, with port 125 (and port 120) serving as an identification marker for these channels to respective interior treatment/measurement regions of the patient. With angled insertion guide surfaces 140 and 145, device 100, with the abovedescribed structural arrangement, serves as a subcutaneous marker, an insertion guide, and a flange for multiple inserts through lumens (or channels) 180 and 185 from an exterior to an interior treatment/measurement region of a body. According to one embodiment, device 100 is a single, monolithic molded part of a rigid polymeric material with the above-described structural arrangement. In embodiments, the polymeric material can be High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polypropylene (PP), Nylon 6, Nylon 12, and the like. The rigidity and flexibility of the material can be selected based on the implant location, treatment type, insertion instruments to name a few. In embodiments, device 100 can be assembled from separately molded parts and can integrate parts made from materials with different characteristics. As an example, ports 120 and 125 can be made from a more rigid material than base portion 105, and vice versa.

[0080] FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of device 100 with an alternative structural arrangement according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Additionally, FIG. 4 incorporates dimensions of device 100 according to an example embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 4, ports 120 and 125 still have different dimensions (with port 125 having a larger size and height than port 120 from platform 130 and base portion 105) but are farther apart, with port 125 no longer partially overlapping with port 120 (e.g., in a stepped construction) in the plan view as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. According to an example embodiment, port 120 has a diameter of approximately 7 mm (millimeters) and port 125 has a diameter of approximately 8 mm. The total height of platform 130 from the bottom of base portion 105 is approximately 6 mm and the total length of base portion 105 is approximately 27 mm. Thus, the size difference between ports 120 and 125 is still distinguishable based on tactile feedback post implantation. [0081] As further illustrated in FIG. 4, tubular structures 160 and 165 have the same length at approximately 10 mm from base portion 105 to respective tapered tips 460 and 465, which is a different arrangement from the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3B showing different sized tubular structures 160 and 165. Thus, in embodiments, tubular structures 160 and 165 can have the same or different dimensions for accommodating respective insertion instruments and/or for reaching the same or different depths in the treated body. Additionally, separate tubular extensions of various lengths (not shown) can be fitted over one or both of tubular structures 160 and 165 to further customize the depth(s) being reached for respective lumens 180 and 185 (see FIG. 3). As shown in FIG. 4 and according to an example embodiment, tubular structures 160 and 165 are approximately 9 mm apart from center to center (e.g., with reference to FIG. 3, from center of channel 180 to center of channel 185).

[0082] It should be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that ports 120 and 125 and tubular structures 160 and 165 can be considered to embody access ports having respective upper portions (ports 120 and 125) above base portion 105 and respective lower portions (tubular structures 160 and 165) below base portion 105. Additionally, it should be readily understood that such access ports can be considered to include guide surfaces (e.g., funnels) 140 and 145, bottom openings 150 and 155, and channels 180 and 185 because a port can be understood to embody at least an opening defining an entrance on one end, including guide surfaces (e.g., funnels) 140 and 145, and any structure providing access (e.g., fluid communication or insertion path) to an access target (e.g., interior of the skull to a lesion or a malignant tumor). The funnel leading to the delivery lumen is constructed to safely support redirection of a needle into the lumen, which fits a MIONP delivery needle. The delivery lumen also is configured to pressure fit a 16 gauge angiocatheter with reflux during delivery.

[0083] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of device 100 implanted on the cranium of a patient in accordance with an example implementation of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5, device 100 is implanted on the skull 505 of the patient and under the skin/soft tissue 510 (e.g., the scalp) of the patient. As further illustrated in FIG. 5, a hole 515 is formed in the skull 505 so that tubular structures 160 and 165 can reach the target treatment region. FIG. 5 includes labels “CED [(Convection Enhanced Delivery)] port” and “CED lumen” for port 120 and lumen 180, respectively, to denote a function (e.g., inserting a CED angiocatheter for delivering ferromagnetic nanoparticles) therefor according to an example implementation. Correspondingly, FIG. 5 includes labels “sensor port” and “sensor lumen” for port 125 and lumen 185, respectively, to denote a function (e.g., inserting a fiber optic thermal probe for measuring a target region temperature) therefor according to an example implementation. It should be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that these functions are alterable, interchangeable, and can be the same between ports 120 and 125 (and between lumens 180 and 185) without departing from the spirit and the scope of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 5, port 125 sits higher under the skin/soft tissue 510 than port 120 and, therefore, a care provider (or user) can palpate skin/soft tissue 510 from the exterior and feel the size difference between ports 120 and 125. Based on this tactile feedback post implantation, the care provider (or user) can identify ports 120 and 125 and, accordingly, insert the appropriate instruments therethrough — e.g., CED delivery through “CED port” 120 and sensor probe through “Sensor port” 125. Thus, the diameter of the delivery port is constructed to accommodate a neuronavigation probe.

[0084] Additionally, FIG. 5 illustrates device 100 with a flat bottom surface that abuts the skull 505 of the patient and, accordingly, with ports 120 and 125, and corresponding channels 180 and 185, directed in a substantially orthogonal direction from the surface of the skull 505. With this arrangement, base portion 105 of the implanted device 100 also serves to form a cover over hole 515. In embodiments, device 100 can incorporate one or more angled bottom surfaces for an angled entry direction for ports 120 and 125, and corresponding channels 180 and 185, or for fitting to different anchoring surfaces (e.g., bones) in the patient’s body. Correspondingly, in embodiments, ports 120 and 125 and tubular structures 160 and 165 can be oriented at an angle such that channels 180 and 185 are directed from openings 150 and 155 in a direction other than the substantially orthogonal direction from a plane formed by the bottom surface of device 100 (and/or the top surface of platform 130)(e.g., as shown in FIGS. 3B and 5). In such embodiments, guide surfaces 140 and 145 can be reoriented accordingly. Additionally, in embodiments, ports 120 and 125 (and tubular structures 160 and 165) can be oriented in different directions such that channels 180 and 185 are directed from openings 150 and 155 in different directions instead of being parallel to each other. In such embodiments, guide surfaces 140 and 145 can be reoriented accordingly.

[0085] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an implantation process 600 for device 100 according to one example implementation of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 6, process 600 begins with step s601 of performing presurgical imaging to guide surgical planning based on a location of a lesion (or malignant tumor) to be treated. Thus, an insertion direction and a skull entry point are determined based on the contours of skull and the treatment location of the lesion. Correspondingly, an insertion depth is also determined based on the insertion direction, entry point, and the treatment location of the lesion. For example, a central treatment region(s) can be designated as a target for one or both of ports 120 and 125 of device 100. Additionally, a target temperature measurement region(s) can be designated as a target for one or both of ports 120 and 125 of device 100. According to one example implementation, a stereotactic planning system is used for step s601.

[0086] Next, at step s605, an incision (e.g., a semicircular incision) is made in the scalp of the patient. Then, at step s610, a burr hole (e.g., hole 515 shown in FIG. 5) is drilled in the skull of the patient. According to one example implementation, the burr hole is approximately 10 mm to accommodate the insertion of tubular structures 160 and 165 through the skull of the patient. By making the burr hole 10 mm and constructing the device such that it can be implemented through the burr hole and both ports are able to access tumor location through a burr hole, a less invasive procedure is provided.

[0087] Once the burr hole (e.g., hole 515 shown in FIG. 5) is formed, process 600 proceeds to step s615, where device 100 is placed on the skull of the patient (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 5) and tubular structures 160 and 165 are aimed directly at respective target regions (e.g., cancer lesion) using a stereotactic procedure. Next, at step s620, a skin flap formed by the incision at step s605 is closed over implanted device 100 and sutured (as illustrated in FIG. 5). Postsurgical imaging is performed at step s625 to insure proper device placement to complete process 600 of device implantation. It will be understood that the device 100 is made of a material that is visible on imaging. For example, the device can be made of a material that can be visualized on X-ray.

[0088] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of an infusion process 700 of delivering a therapeutic agent (e.g., ferromagnetic nanoparticles) after device 100 has been implanted according to one example implementation of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 7, process 700 begins with step s701 of inserting an angiocatheter sheath to one of lumens 180 and 185.

[0089] FIG. 8A is a schematic cross-sectional view of device 100 during step s701 in accordance with an example implementation of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 8A, a needle 805 (e.g., a 16 gauge (G) needle) fitted with an angiocatheter sheath (815 in FIG. 8B) is inserted through lumen 180 via port 120, which corresponds to the example implementation illustrated in FIG. 5 with lumen 180 being designated as the CED lumen. Needle 805 serves to puncture the skin/soft tissue (510 in FIG. 5) of the patient and, as described above, insertion guide funnel 140 serves as a lateral guide for guiding needle 805 into opening 150 and lumen 180 (see FIG. 3B). In embodiments, needle 805, which can be selected for length based on the predetermined location of the treatment target (e.g., via stereotactic planning), can be further provided with a safety depth stop by insertion guide funnel 140 against the housing 810 of needle 805. As also described above, the size difference between ports 120 and 125 allows a care giver to locate and identify port 120 through the patient’s skin/soft tissue 510 for the needle insertion of step s701.

[0090] FIG. 8B is a closeup schematic view of the area designated “8B” in FIG. 8A. As shown in FIG. 8B, needle 805 is fitted with an angiocatheter sheath 815 for installation to lumen 180 and through which a particle delivery catheter (905 in FIGS. 9A and 9B) can be inserted to reach the treatment target. Fig. 8B also illustrates another angiocatheter sheath 815 already installed to lumen 185.

[0091] Referring back to FIG. 7, process 700 proceeds next to step s705, where the angiocatheter needle 805 is removed, leaving the angiocatheter sheath 815 in place. FIG. 8C is a close up schematic view of the area “8B” shown in FIG 8B after step s705 is completed. According to an example embodiment, needle 805 is sized (e.g., 16G) to fit snugly through lumen 180 (and/or 185) so that the angiocatheter sheath 815 fitted thereto remains installed in the lumen 180 (and/or 185) through friction with the inner wall of lumen 180 (and/or 185) when needle 805 is withdrawn. [0092] Next, at step s710, a particle delivery catheter (905 in FIGS. 9A and 9B) is inserted through the installed angiocatheter sheath 815 in lumen 180 to reach the treatment target. The nanoparticle source is then, at step s715, connected to the particle delivery catheter (905 in FIGS. 9A and 9B). According to one example implementation, an intravenous (IV) pump (not shown) is secured to a luer lock (not shown) connected to the particle delivery catheter (905 in FIGS. 9A and 9B).

[0093] Infusion process 700 then proceeds to step s720, where nanoparticles are delivered through the particle delivery catheter to the target — for example, directly into a located lesion. FIG. 9A is a schematic cross-sectional view of device 100 during step s720 in accordance with an example implementation of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 9A, particle delivery catheter 905 is inserted through angiocatheter sheath 815 in lumen 180 via port 120. Accordingly, infusion 910 of the ferromagnetic particles (e.g., via “CED infusion”) is delivered to a target location. FIG. 9B is a closeup schematic view of the area designated “9B” in FIG. 9A, with a more detailed view of particle delivery catheter 905, angiocatheter sheath 815, and infusion 910.

[0094] Once the infusion is completed, process 700 ends with, at step s725, disconnection of the particle delivery system and removal of angiocatheter sheath 815 from device 100. According to an example implementation, the IV pump (not shown) is removed from the luer lock (not shown) connected to the particle delivery catheter (905 in FIGS. 9A and 9B) and, again, angiocatheter sheath 815 is removed from device 100. According to an alternative implementation of process 700, one or more sheaths 815 can be kept in place through lumen(s) 180 (and 185) for a subsequent treatment process (e.g., process 1000 in FIG. 10), after which they are removed from device 100.

[0095] With the ferromagnetic particles infused at the target region, a treatment process is undertaken to heat the ferromagnetic particles with one or more temperature probes inserted through device 100 to monitoring the temper ature(s) at or around the target region during treatment.

[0096] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of a therapy process 1000 of activating the therapeutic agent (e.g., heating the ferromagnetic nanoparticles) after it is delivered (e.g., in process 700) according to one example implementation of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 10, process 1000 begins with step si 001 of inserting angiocatheter sheaths to both of lumens 180 and 185. According to an alternative implementation, process 1000 can be performed via one of the lumens 180 and 185. The procedure for inserting the angiocatheter sheaths is similar to those of steps s701 and s705, detailed description of which will not be repeated. [0097] Similar to process 700, according to an example implementation, needles (e.g., 16 gauge (G) needles) fitted with angiocatheter sheaths (e.g., 815) are inserted through lumen 180 via port 120 and lumen 185 via port 125. The angiocatheter needles are removed (e.g., similar to step s705), leaving the flexible angiocatheters (e.g., 815-1 and 815-2 in FIG. 1 IB) in place. Based on infusion process 700, port 120 is designated for monitoring nanoparticle (or treatment region) temperature and port 125 is designated for monitoring peripheral temperature.

[0098] Process 1000 proceeds next to step si 005, where fiber optic temperature probes (1105-1 and 1105-2 in FIGS. 11A and 11B) are threaded into both angiocatheters 815-1 and 815-2 in lumens 180 and 185 to reach respective temperature measurement targets (e.g., “nanoparticle temperature” and “peripheral temperature,” respectively).

[0099] FIG. 11 A is a schematic cross-sectional view of device 100 after step sl005 has been completed in accordance with an example implementation of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 IB is a closeup schematic view of the area designated “HB” in FIG. 11A. As shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, a temperature probe (e.g., fiber optic measurement probe) 1105-1 is inserted through angiocatheter sheath 815-1 in lumen 180 via port 120 and another temperature probe (e.g., fiber optic measurement probe) 1105-2 is inserted through angiocatheter sheath 815-2 in lumen 185 via port 125. Accordingly, infused ferromagnetic particles (e.g., via “CED infusate”) 1110 is a target temperature measurement location for probe 1105- 1 and a peripheral region is a target measurement location for probe 1105-2.

[0100] With temperature probes 1105-1 and 1105-2 in place, process 1000 proceeds to step slOlO, where therapy is applied by activating an alternating magnetic field (“AMF”) in and around the region containing the infusate 1110, causing the nanoparticles to oscillate and radiate heat. Accordingly, probes 1105-1 and 1105-2 provide real time temperature feedback during therapy, as illustrated in FIGS. 11 A and 1 IB. In one example implementation, therapy step slOlO is conducted over approximately one (1) hour while monitoring the temperatures measured by probes 1105-1 and 1105-2 to ensure that there is no overheating. It will thus be appreciated that important requirements of the device 100 for MHT include the following: 1) the material must be non-responsive to magnetic fields to avoid RF interference and heating, when exposed to AMF during MHT. Both lumens of the device must accurately localized into the tumor to provide reliable data so that the data provided by the device must match what was predicted by modeling.

[0101] Once the therapy application step s 1010 is completed, the AMF deactivated, at step sl015. Therapy process is then concluded with step sl020 with the removal of probes 1105-1 and 1105-2 and angiocatheters 815-1 and 815-2 from device 100. The wounds in the skin/soft tissue (510 in FIG. 5) through which the needles are inserted at step si 001 are healed and subsequent infusion and therapy processes (700 and 1000) can be repeated through the healed skin/soft tissue (510 in FIG. 5). According to an example implementation, these processes are conducted three (3) times a week, for six (6) to eight (8) weeks.

[0102] The following example is an exemplary example of one application of the device and in particular, represents testing of the device that illustrates the effectiveness of the device. As such, this example is representative of at least one implementation but is not limiting of the scope of the present devices disclosed herein.

[0103] Example - 3D printed skull phantom. The devices disclosed herein were tested using a phantom model built to mimic native tissue mechanical and thermal properties. In at least one test, the skull model was 3D printed and a 10 mm burr hole was dilled into the skull. The localization of the device 100 within the target lesion was planned using conventional surgical planning software. A stereotactic probe was used to guide the MIONP delivery lumen of the device 100 directly into the simulated target lesion. The device 100 was then secured for magnetic nanoparticle delivery. Synomag® nanoflower-shaped maghemite nanoparticles with a carboxylic acid surface coating and a hydrodynamic diameter of 50 mm were prepared in water with an iron concentration of 80 mg/ml. and delivered via an infusion pump into a lesion approximated by a centrifuge tube embedded into a Synaptiv brain phantom using the device 100. The entire model was placed in an AMF coil and two fiber optic probes were inserted, one into each lumen of the device 100 to measure internal and peripheral temperatures. Amplitude and frequency parameters were set at 50 Oe and 160 kHz to achieve a target internal temperature of 45°C as per MHT standard field calculations.

[0104] After additional preparations steps were performed, the device 100 was then slipped over a neuronavigation guide wire, via the MIONP deliver lumen, and the wire was in turn placed through the burr hole to align with a predetermined surgical trajectory. Once the wire was in alignment with the planned trajectory, the device 100 was moved and into place, press-fit inside the burr hole, at which point, it can be secured with fasteners (screws). The phantom model was then imaged using X-ray imaging to verify correct localization of the device 100.

[0105] MIONPs were infused into the brain phantom through the device 100 at a rate of 1 mL/hr for a total of 5 hrs through one port (of the device 100) via 16 gauge angiocatheter. The angiocatheter fit tightly into the lumen to prevent MIONP backflow during intracranial delivery. Rigid funnels on the device 100 directed the catheter into the delivery lumen. [0106] A separate infusion with the same parameters was performed to visualize and quantify the infusion accuracy through the device 100. The MIONPs were delivered in a clear agarose gel that mirror the mechanical properties of brain parenchymal tissue. The clear gel was chosen to allow the best possible exudate visualization. An infusion rate identical to the phantom test was used (1 mL/hr for 5 hours) and the resulting exudate was delivered into the parenchyma with minimal loss and remained in the desired location.

[0107] The specific loss power (SLP) of the magnetic nanoparticles as used to estimate AMF amplitude required to achieve and maintain 45°C for 15 minutes. Trial MHT pulse tests were run at 63 and 100 Oe at 160 kHz to assess the rate of rise of temperature in the skull phantom. Based on the pulse tests, the AMF was set to 55 Oe and 160 kHz for 15 minutes and the temperature was measured via two temperature probes inserted into the device 100. The goals were to accurately measure the temperature of the nanoparticles and to maintain a constant temperature of 45°C. No excessive heating was observed while conducting this test in the AMF.

[0108] In the aforementioned study, the intratumoral physiological measurements were facilitated by the accurate localization of fiber optic probe through the lumen of the device and performance was validated. Thus, the studies confirmed that the present device 100 can obtain continuous temperature measurements, thereby permitting more effective adjustment of the AMF in order to maintain intratumoral temperatures at the desired thermal dose. Until now, patients would be subject to MHT therapy where the intralesional temperature was inferred based on AMF field settings. However, migration of MIONPs, cerebral blood flow, and convective properties can lead to subtherapeutic heating in the tumor or excessive heating in the surrounding brain parenchyma. The present device 100 enables continuous monitoring of the intratumoral temperature while ensuring the surrounding brain will not be subjected to excessive temperatures that could result in injury. The aforementioned study (test) confirmed that the device 100 met all design and engineering criteria, and represents a new tool to aid clinical implementation of more effective MHT treatment, and enables less invasive access. It will be appreciated that the foregoing test is merely exemplary and simulates one exemplary implementation of the device 100 and is not limited of the scope of the present devices described herein.

[0109] As previously mentioned, the device 100 is intended to be placed in the skull during the first session, to be accessed subcutaneously in subsequent sessions by palpating for the desired lumen location. [0110] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the words "may" and "can" are used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures. In certain instances, a letter suffix following a dash (...-b) denotes a specific example of an element marked by a particular reference numeral (e.g., 210- b). Description of elements with references to the base reference numerals (e.g., 210) also refer to all specific examples with such letter suffixes (e.g., 210-b), and vice versa.

[0111] It is to be further understood that like or similar numerals in the drawings represent like or similar elements through the several figures, and that not all components or steps described and illustrated with reference to the figures are required for all embodiments or arrangements.

[0112] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “contains”, “containing”, “includes”, “including,” “comprises”, and/or “comprising,” and variations thereof, when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof, and are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.

[0113] Terms of orientation are used herein merely for purposes of convention and referencing and are not to be construed as limiting. However, it is recognized these terms could be used with reference to an operator or user. Accordingly, no limitations are implied or to be inferred. In addition, the use of ordinal numbers (e.g., first, second, third) is for distinction and not counting. For example, the use of “third” does not imply there is a corresponding “first” or “second.” Also, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0114] While the disclosure has described several example implementations, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes can be made, and equivalents can be substituted for elements thereof, without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. In addition, many modifications will be appreciated by those skilled in the art to adapt a particular instrument, situation, or material to embodiments of the disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, or to the best mode contemplated for carrying out this disclosure, but that the disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

[0115] The subject matter described above is provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed as limiting. Various modifications and changes can be made to the subject matter described herein without following the example embodiments and applications illustrated and described, and without departing from the true spirit and scope encompassed by the present disclosure, which is defined by the set of recitations in the following claims and by structures and functions or steps which are equivalent to these recitations.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A delivery device for use in magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT), comprising: a guide that is configured for subcutaneous implantation to treat a malignant tumor, the guide comprising: a first port for delivering a therapeutic agent to the malignant tumor; and a second port, independent and separated from the first port, for delivering a measurement probe to a location at or proximate the malignant tumor; wherein the guide is configured to provide tactile feedback to a user post implantation such that an entrance to the first port is tactilely distinguishable from an entrance to the second port by tactile feedback to the user.

2. The delivery device of claim 1, wherein the guide comprises a base portion that surrounds the first and second ports, the first port having a first upper portion that is formed above the base portion and a first lower portion that is formed below the base portion, the second port having a second upper portion that is formed above the base portion and a second lower portion that is formed below the base portion, the first upper portion defining an entrance to the first port and the second upper portion defining an entrance to the second port.

3. The delivery device of claim 2, wherein the first upper portion has an angled surface that leads to an inner lumen of the first port and the second upper portion has an angled surface that leads to an inner lumen of the second port.

4. The delivery device of claim 2, wherein a height of the first upper portion is less than a height of the second upper portion relative to an upper surface of the base portion.

5. The delivery device of claim 4, wherein the first upper portion has a circular shape and the second upper portion has a circular shape with the second upper portion partially overlapping the first upper portion.

6. The delivery device of claim 2, wherein the first lower portion comprises a first tubular structure and the second lower portion comprises a second tubular structure.

7. The delivery device of claim 6, wherein the first and second tubular structures are parallel to one another.

8. The delivery device of claim 6, wherein lengths of the first and second tubular sections are the same.

9. The delivery device of claim 6, wherein lengths of the first and second tubular sections are different.

10. The delivery device of claim 6, wherein a distance between the first and second tubular structures is 9 mm or less.

11. The delivery device of claim 2, further comprising at least one hollow extender for coupling to one of the first lower portion and the second lower portion for extension thereof.

12. The delivery device of claim 2, wherein the base portion is formed of a first material and the first and second ports are formed of a second material different than the first material.

13. The delivery device of claim 12, wherein the first material is more flexible than the second material.

14. The delivery device of claim 2, wherein a width of the first lower portion is different than a width of the second lower portion.

15. The delivery device of claim 2, wherein the tactile feedback comprises a stepped construction between the entrances to the first port and the second port.

16. The delivery device of claim 1, wherein the guide is formed of a single material.

17. A kit for use in magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT) of a malignant tumor, comprising: a first instrument that is configured to deliver a therapeutic agent to the malignant tumor for treatment thereof; a second instrument that is configured to measure a property of the malignant tumor; and a delivery device in the form of a guide that is configured for subcutaneous implantation, the guide having a first port for receiving the first instrument and delivering the therapeutic agent to the malignant tumor and a second port, independent and separated from the first port, for receiving and delivering the second instrument to a location at or proximate the malignant tumor.

18. The kit of claim 17, wherein the first instrument comprises a source of ferromagnetic nanoparticles that are delivered to the malignant tumor and is configured to inject the ferromagnetic nanoparticles into the malignant tumor.

19. The kit of claim 17, wherein the second instrument is configured to measure a temperature of the malignant tumor and/or a temperature of tissue surrounding the malignant tumor.

20. The kit of claim 18, wherein the second instrument comprises a plurality of temperature probes that are adapted for insertion through both the first port and the second port during a therapy application process.

21. The kit of claim 17, wherein the guide is configured to provide tactile feedback to a user post implantation such that an entrance to the first port is tactilely distinguishable from an entrance to the second port by tactile feedback to the user.

22. The kit of claim 21, wherein the guide includes a base portion that surrounds the first and second ports, the first port having a first upper portion that is formed above the base portion and a first lower portion that is formed below the base portion, the second port having a second upper portion that is formed above the base portion and a second lower portion that is formed below the base portion, the first upper portion defining an entrance to the first port and the second upper portion defining an entrance to the second port.

23. The kit of claim 22, wherein the first upper portion has an angled surface that leads to an inner lumen of the first port and the second upper portion has an angled surface that leads to an inner lumen of the second port.

24. The kit of claim 22, wherein a height of the first upper portion is less than a height of the second upper portion relative to an upper surface of the base portion.

25. The kit of claim 24, wherein the first upper portion has a circular shape and the second upper portion has a circular shape with the second upper portion partially overlapping the first upper portion.

26. The kit of claim 22, wherein the first lower portion comprises a first tubular structure and the second lower portion comprises a second tubular structure.

27. The kit of claim 26, wherein the first and second tubular structures are parallel to one another.

28. The kit of claim 26, wherein lengths of the first and second tubular sections are the same.

29. The kit of claim 26, wherein lengths of the first and second tubular sections are different.

30. The kit of claim 26, wherein a distance between the first and second tubular structures is 9 mm or less.

31. The kit of claim 22, further comprising at least one hollow extender for coupling to one of the first lower portion and the second lower portion for extension thereof.

32. The kit of claim 22, wherein the base portion is formed of a first material and the first and second ports are formed of a second material different than the first material.

33. The kit of claim 32, wherein the first material is more flexible than the second material.

34. The kit of claim 22, wherein a width of the first lower portion is different than a width of the second lower portion.

35. The kit of claim 22, wherein the tactile feedback comprises a stepped construction between the entrances to the first port and the second port.

36. The kit of claim 17, wherein the second instrument comprises a non-magnetic fiber optic temperature measurement probe.

37. The kit of claim 17, wherein the malignant tumor comprises a high-grade glioma.

38. The kit of claim 17, wherein the guide is formed of a single material.

39. A delivery device and guide for use in magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT), comprising: an implantable body that is configured for subcutaneous implantation to treat a malignant tumor, the implantable body having a base portion, an integral first port for delivering a therapeutic agent to the malignant tumor and/or delivering a first measurement probe to the malignant tumor and an integral second port, independent and separated from the first port, for delivering a second measurement probe to a location at or proximate the malignant tumor; wherein an entrance to the first port is located above an upper surface of the base portion and is elevated a first distance from the upper surface and an entrance to the second port is located above the upper surface of the base portion and is elevated a second distance from the upper surface, the first distance being different than the second distance.

40. The delivery device of claim 39, wherein the first distance is less than the second distance.

41. The delivery device of claim 39, wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance.

42. A method for performing magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT) on a patient comprising the steps of: subcutaneously implanting a delivery device within the patient in view of a location of a target lesion to be treated, the delivery device having a first port for delivering a therapeutic agent to the target lesion and a second port, independent and separated from the first port, for delivering a measurement probe to a location at or proximate the target lesion; delivering the therapeutic agent through the first port to the target lesion; delivering a first temperature probe through the first port and a second temperature probe through the second port; and applying an alternating magnetic field to the target lesion to cause activation of the therapeutic agent and measuring, in real time, temperatures at the first and second temperature probes.

43. The method of claim 42, further comprising the steps of: making an incision in a scalp of the patient, whereby a skin flap is formed; drilling a burr hole in a skull of the patient; positioning the delivery device such that the first and second ports extend through the burr hole; and closing and suturing the skin flap.

44. The method of claim 42, wherein the step of delivering the therapeutic agent to the target lesion comprises the steps of: inserting a first angiocatheter into the first port, wherein the first port is located at least in part by using tactile feedback from palpitating tissue of the patient; coupling a fluid pump to the first angiocatheter, the first pump being in fluid communication with a source of the therapeutic agent; infusing the therapeutic agent into the target lesion by operating the fluid pump; and removing the first angiocatheter when the infusion is complete.

45. The method of claim 42, wherein the step of delivering the first temperature probe and the second temperature probe comprises the steps of: inserting a first angiocatheter into the first port, wherein the first port is located at least in part by using tactile feedback from palpitating tissue of the patient; inserting a second angiocatheter into the second port, wherein the second port is located based at least in part on the tactile feedback; inserting the first temperature probe into and through the first angiocatheter and inserting the second temperature probe into and through the second angiocatheter with the first temperature probe being located at a location of the target lesion and a location of the infused therapeutic agent, while the second temperature probe is located at a periphery of the target lesion or a location adjacent to the target lesion; and removing the first and second temperature probes and the first and second angiocatheters upon completion of therapy and upon deactivation of the applied magnetic field.

46. The method of claim 45, wherein each of the first temperature probe and the second temperature probe comprises a fiber optic temperature probe.

47. The method of claim 42, further comprising the step of: palpitating tissue of the patient to locate at least one of the first port and the second port using tactile feedback before one of the therapeutic agent delivering step and the temperature probe delivering step.

48. The method of claim 42, wherein the therapeutic agent comprises ferromagnetic nanoparticles and the target lesion comprises a high-grade glioma.