Linda T Spencer

US Patent:

59478900, Sep 7, 1999

Filed:

Sep 19, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/933819

Inventors:

Robert H. Spencer - Knoxville TN
Linda S. Spencer - Knoxville TN

International Classification:

A61N 500

US Classification:

600 3

Abstract:

The present invention first relates to an apparatus for dispensing liquid radiation for intraluminal radiation therapy. The apparatus uses two arms of a three-way stopcock to permanently connect a balloon-tipped catheter with an inflation syringe. The inflation syringe is fabricated from material which substantially limits radiation exposure. The apparatus is then placed into a sterile and closed catheter package comprised of a tray and a removable cover. The tray includes a port fashioned into its side, which receives the third arm of the three-way stopcock. Through this port, a radiopharmacist may inject liquid radiation into the inflation syringe while the apparatus remains within the sterile catheter package. In this manner, the medical staff are not required to load liquid radiation into the catheter assembly in the operating room, and may thereby avoid the risk of spillage and the risk of exposure to radiation incident to the loading process. An improved method for delivering liquid radiation for intraluminal radiation therapy is also presented.