Overview
A patient couch is designed to track movement of a target tumor in the patient (due to biological functions such as respiration), and to make compensatory moves so that the radiation treatment site is stabilized.
Applications
In 2003, it was estimated that 1.3 million Americans were diagnosed with cancer, and cancer caused 1 in 4 deaths. Cancer rates are rising, but some report that the use of radiation therapy is falling as other, earlier treatments become more successful. 2,009 facilities perform external beam radiation therapy in the U.S. Radiation oncology sites are rapid adopters of new therapeutic techniques and related equipment. Capital budgets for radiation therapy equipment at radiation oncology centers in the U.S. averaged $980,000 in 2004, up 34% from 2003. This technology can be applied to any procedure where a target tissue must remain stationary in 3D space.
Advantages
Decreases radiation exposure to non-targeted tissues. Decreases table time for patient. Increases the number of patients that can be treated per day.
Stage of Development
Prototype will be complete in early 2010.
R&D Required
Proof of concept testing. Regulatory approval.
Licensing Potential
UM seeks to develop and commercialize by an exclusive or non-exclusive license agreement and/or sponsored research with a company active in the area.
Contact Info
Office of Technology Transfer
620 W Lexington St., 4th Floor
Baltimore, MD 21201
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (410) 706-2380