Patent ID: 6532387
Filing Date: 2003-03-11
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
A method for enhancing local delivery of a pharmaceutical compound to a site of interest in a body cavity within an individual, comprising the steps of:providing access to the site of interest in said body cavity via a catheter device, said catheter device comprising: a first lumen for delivering electromagnetic energy, said electromagnetic energy selected from the group consisting of laser, radiofrequency, microwave, and light; a second lumen for delivering said pharmaceutical compound; a proximal end having fiber optics in said first lumen and a connection means for delivery of said pharmaceutical compound to said second lumen; a distal end having an optics assembly for transmitting said electromagnetic energy, said electromagnetic energy optionally transmitted via an optic probe comprising a tip, and a port for delivery of said pharmaceutical compound, wherein said first and second lumens are independently and operably connected between said proximal end and said distal end; and one or multiple chambers, said chamber comprising an electrode and a rheologic fluid; placing said one or multiple chambers in said body cavity; applying an electric current or a magnetic field to said rheologic fluid wherein said chamber(s) forms an obstruction in said body cavity; delivering said pharmaceutical compound to the site of interest through the distal end of the second lumen of said catheter device; and irradiating said site of interest with electromagnetic energy delivered through the distal end of the first lumen of said catheter device; wherein said electromagnetic energy exerts an optical force comprising optical pressure, optical pumping or optical propulsion, said optical force acting on said pharmaceutical compound directly or indirectly to move said pharmaceutical compound to said site thereby enhancing local delivery of said pharmaceutical compound to said site of interest within an individual.