Brachytherapy apparatus

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a brachytherapy apparatus that delivers a low dose, partial breast irradiation treatment for post-lumpectomy patients via introduction of a catheter-like device through a cannula. The apparatus may be introduced post-surgically with local anesthesia under image guidance into the previous excision site and into a cavity by a surgeon. The brachytherapy apparatus includes a seed containment device configured to contain a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds therein. The seed containment device may be one or more thin-walled tubes. The apparatus is further configured to expand so that at least a portion of the seed containment device is positioned against the remaining tissue and the plurality of radioactive seeds are disposed at the perimeter of the seed containment device. Also described are various clamps for the apparatus, and sleeves for adjusting the size of the device to fit a cavity when the apparatus is in use.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a brachytherapy apparatus in a collapsed state in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1B is an embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 1A in its expanded state.

FIG. 2 is a breast brachytherapy apparatus having a clamp and in its collapsed state in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3A is the brachytherapy apparatus of FIG. 2 as it is used in a brachytherapy procedure.

FIG. 3B is the apparatus of FIGS. 2 and 3A in its expanded state in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3C is the apparatus of FIG. 3B showing the process of radioactive strands being placed into the openings.

FIG. 3D is the apparatus of FIG. 3C when the tubes are held tightly in place.

FIG. 3E is a post-implantation embodiment of the brachytherapy apparatus of FIG. 3D.

FIG. 3F is a post-implantation embodiment of a brachytherapy apparatus with a post-implantation cap on its end.

FIG. 3G is an embodiment of a brachytherapy apparatus after an obturator has been inserted.

FIG. 3H is an embodiment where the tubes are collapsed.

FIG. 3I is an embodiment showing how the brachytherapy apparatus may be removed from a patient, leaving the suture disk in place temporarily.

FIG. 3J is an illustration of the apparatus having been removed fully from the breast.

FIG. 4A is the brachytherapy apparatus as stacked, substantially elliptical, expandable tubes and in a collapsed state in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 4B is the apparatus 4A in its expanded state.

FIG. 5 is a single spiral tube strand brachytherapy apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is an expandable mesh brachytherapy apparatus in its expanded state in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a stent embodiment of a brachytherapy apparatus in a collapsed and expanded state in accordance with still yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a multi-tube spiral embodiment of a brachytherapy apparatus in accordance with still yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate a bandoleer-configured brachytherapy apparatus in accordance with still yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is an extruded multi-lumen embodiment of a brachytherapy in accordance with still yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a bendable tube configuration that includes a sleeve configured to slide toward the tubes to reduce the length of the tubes to control the expansion volume.

FIG. 12 is a multi-lumen brachytherapy apparatus having tubes that are snugly fit from side-to-side.

FIG. 13 is a multi-lumen tube that could also be configured for expansion at the time of use through the use of molded “knives” at the interior surface of a sleeve of the apparatus.

FIG. 14A is a side view of a brachytherapy apparatus that includes a cap joined to the tubes.

FIG. 14B is a top view of the cap described in FIG. 14A.

FIG. 14C is a dimensional representation of the cross section of the tubes of FIG. 14A.

FIG. 15 is a dual-sleeved proximal end portion of a brachytherapy apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 is a brachytherapy apparatus having a threaded sleeve and clamp in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 is the proximal end portion of a brachytherapy apparatus that includes a tapered wedge and collet in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 18 is the proximal end portion of a brachytherapy apparatus that includes clamps for each individual tube as well as a clamp for the center tube.

FIG. 19 is the proximal end portion of a brachytherapy apparatus having a key hole-type toggle mechanism for the center tube.

FIG. 20 is the proximal end of a brachytherapy apparatus having a spiral-type spring mechanism used to hold the lumen in place.

FIG. 21 is the proximal end of a brachytherapy apparatus having a pin mechanism used to hold the lumen in place.

FIG. 22 is another view of a proximal end of a brachytherapy apparatus having a collet system similar to that shown in FIG. 17.

FIG. 23 is also another view of a proximal end of a brachytherapy apparatus having a collet system similar to that shown in FIG. 17.

FIG. 24 is another view of a proximal end of a brachytherapy apparatus having a screw mechanism for expanding and collapsing the brachytherapy tubes.

FIG. 25 is still another view of a proximal end of a brachytherapy apparatus having a spring mechanism for expanding and collapsing the brachytherapy tubes.

FIGS. 26A and 26B illustrate an embodiment of a split nut and bump configuration used to hold a center tube in place.

FIGS. 27A and 27B illustrate a brachytherapy apparatus having a ball of seeds at its end.

FIG. 28A is another embodiment of a brachytherapy apparatus that includes supports for the tubes.

FIG. 28B shows the apparatus in a collapsed state.

FIG. 28C shows yet another position for the apparatus inside a cavity.

FIG. 29A is a perspective view of the cutting apparatus.

FIG. 29B a front view of the cutting apparatus with the scissor members in an open configuration.

FIG. 29C shows the scissor members released.

FIG. 29D shows the scissor members in a locked state.

FIG. 30 is another clamp with cutter in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 31 is a cone clamp in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 32A-32G illustrate an embodiment of a brachytherapy apparatus having a twist dial expansion apparatus and a gauge to meter the volume of expansion.

Claims

1. A brachytherapy apparatus for delivery of localized irradiation after tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the apparatus comprising: one or more thin-walled tubes, each of said thin-walled tubes being configured to contain a plurality of low-dose radioactive seed strands;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds disposed within the one or more thin-walled tubes, including at least one low-dose radioactive seed strand disposed within the one or more thin-walled tubes, the plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds being configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation; andan expansion element configured to expand outwardly said one or more thin-walled tubes within the cavity so that the thin-walled tubes substantially conform to a shape of the cavity.

2. The brachytherapy apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a cutting apparatus configured to cut the tubes so as to shorten the length of the tubes, thus accommodating a size of the cavity.

3. The brachytherapy apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a first sleeve configured to slide distally over the tubes when the apparatus is in a collapsed state so as to shorten the length of the tubes, thus accommodating a size of the cavity.

4. The brachytherapy apparatus of claim 3, wherein the sleeve is threaded to permit clamping of an obturator therethrough.

5. The brachytherapy apparatus of claim 3, further comprising: a second sleeve configured to receive the first sleeve such that when the first sleeve is slid proximally into the second sleeve, the tubes are lengthened to accommodate a size of the cavity.

6. The brachytherapy apparatus of claim 2, further comprising: a web disposed between each two individual tubes, the web including a slit;wherein the cutting apparatus may be used to cut the slit so as to facilitate greater expansion of the brachytherapy apparatus.

7. The brachytherapy apparatus of claim 6, wherein the cutting apparatus includes molded knives on the interior surface of a sleeve.

8. The brachytherapy apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: one or clamping apparatuses configured to clamp the one or more thin-walled tubes inside the brachytherapy apparatus when the apparatus is in use.

9. The brachytherapy apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a center tube; anda second clamping apparatus configured to clamp the center tube inside the brachytherapy apparatus when the apparatus is in use.

10. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein one or more clamping apparatuses is a collet.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the collet is ribbed and/or includes a handle.

12. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the second clamping apparatus is a tapered wedge.

13. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the second clamping apparatus is a key-hole type toggle.

14. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the second clamping apparatus is a spring clamp.

15. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the second clamping apparatus is a pin.

16. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus includes at least two thin-walled tubes, and wherein the expansion element is a screw disposed beneath a center tube and between the at least two thin-walled tubes.

17. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a center tube;a cap connected at the distal end of the one or more thin-walled tubes, the cap being configured to hold the one or more thin-walled tubes and center tube;a spring being connected to the cap at its distal end and to a suture disk at the proximal end such that when the spring is pulled, the one or more thin-walled tubes expand and when the spring is pushed, the one or more thin-walled tubes collapse.

18. The brachytherapy apparatus of claim 1, wherein the brachytherapy apparatus includes at least two thin-walled tubes, the apparatus further comprising: a cap joined to the at least two thin-walled tubes, the cap being further configured to facilitate expansion of the tubes.

19. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a support for each one or more thin-walled tubes; andwherein the expansion element is a cable which when pulled, causes the support to expand the one or more thin-walled tubes in a cavity.

20. A brachytherapy apparatus for delivery of localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the brachytherapy apparatus comprising: a seed containment device configured to contain a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds disposed within the seed containment device; andwherein the seed containment device is further configured to expand outwardly so that the seed containment device substantially conforms to a shape of the cavity, and the plurality of radioactive seeds are disposed at substantially the perimeter of the seed containment device.

21. A brachytherapy apparatus for delivery of localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the brachytherapy apparatus comprising: a plurality of stacked, substantially elliptical, thin-walled tubes, the plurality of tubes including an uppermost tube, at least one middle tube and a lowermost tube, wherein each tube has a top tube section, and a bottom tube section;connection mechanisms configured to connect each tube to at least one other tube such that the top tube section of one tube is connected to the bottom tube section of another tube with the exception of the uppermost tube;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds disposed within the thin-walled tubes, the plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds being configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation;wherein the uppermost tube and the lowermost tube are of a lesser volume than the at least one middle tube;wherein the apparatus is configured to expand and collapse, the expanded state resulting in a greater volume for the apparatus than in its collapsed state;wherein the apparatus defines a diameter of an upper tube section, a middle tube section and a lower tube section; andwherein, in its expanded state, the diameter of the middle tube section is greater than the diameter of the upper tube section and the lower tube section and the tubes and connection mechanisms are configured to substantially conform to a shape of the cavity.

22. The apparatus of claim 21, further comprising: a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds, including at least one low-dose radioactive seed strand disposed within the one or more thin-walled tubes, the plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds being configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation.

23. A brachytherapy apparatus for delivery of localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the brachytherapy apparatus comprising: a plurality of substantially cylindrical, thin-walled tubes, the wall of each tube being connected to the wall of at least one other tube;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds, including at least one low-dose radioactive seed strand disposed within the one or more thin-walled tubes, the plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds being configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation; andan expansion element configured to expand outwardly said plurality of substantially cylindrical, thin-walled tubes so that the one or more thin-walled tubes substantially conform to a shape of the cavity.

24. A brachytherapy apparatus for delivery of localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the brachytherapy apparatus comprising: a first set of tubes being configured in a first direction;a second set of tubes being configured in a second direction such that the second set of tubes intersects with the first set of tubes to define an upper tube section, a middle tube section and a lower tube section, each of said tubes sections defining a diameter;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds disposed within the first and second sets of tubes; andwherein, in its expanded state, the diameter of the middle tube section is greater than the diameter of the upper tube section and the lower tube section, and the first and second sets of tubes are configured to substantially conform to a shape of the cavity; andwherein the volume of the apparatus in its first state is lesser than the volume of the apparatus in its second state.

25. A method for delivering localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity, the method comprising: creating access to the cavity;providing an interstitial brachytherapy apparatus, comprising: one or more thin-walled tubes, each of said thin-walled tubes being configured to contain a plurality of low-dose radioactive seed strands;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds, including at least one low-dose radioactive seed strand disposed within the one or more thin-walled tubes, the plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds being configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation;an expansion element configured to expand outwardly said one or more tubes so that the one or more tubes substantially conform to a shape of the cavity;placing the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus into the cavity;expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus so that the plurality of thin-walled tubes substantially conform to the shape of the cavity;clamping the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus onto the patient;leaving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus inside the cavity for a sufficient time to deliver the prescribed radiation dose to remaining tissue that surrounds the cavity; andremoving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus.

26. A method for delivering localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity, the method comprising: creating access to the cavity;providing an interstitial brachytherapy apparatus, comprising: a seed containment device configured to contain a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds disposed within the seed containment device;wherein the seed containment device is further configured to expand outwardly so that the seed containment device substantially conforms to a shape of the cavity, and the plurality of radioactive seeds are disposed at the perimeter of the seed containment device;placing the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus into the cavity;expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus so that the seed containment device substantially conforms to the shape of the cavity;clamping the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus onto the patient;leaving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus inside the cavity for a sufficient time to deliver the prescribed radiation dose to remaining tissue that surrounds the cavity; andremoving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus.

27. A treatment apparatus for delivery of localized treatment to tissue that remains after surgical resection, the resection resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the apparatus comprising: one or more thin-walled tubes, each of said thin-walled tubes being configured to contain a plurality of therapeutic elements;a plurality of therapeutic elements disposed within the one or more thin-walled tubes; andan expansion element configured to expand outwardly said one or more thin-walled tubes so that the one or more thin-walled tubes substantially conform to a shape of the cavity.

28. A treatment apparatus for delivery of localized treatment to tissue that remains after surgical resection, the resection resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the apparatus comprising: a seed containment device configured to contain a plurality of therapeutic elements;a plurality of therapeutic elements disposed within the seed containment device; andwherein the seed containment device is further configured to expand outwardly so that the seed containment device substantially conforms to a shape of the cavity, and the therapeutic elements are disposed at substantially the perimeter of the seed containment device.

29. A treatment apparatus for delivery of localized treatment to tissue that remains after surgical resection, the resection resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the apparatus comprising: one or more thin-walled tubes, each of said thin-walled tubes being configured to contain a plurality of radiation sources;a plurality of radiation sources; andan expansion element configured to expand outwardly said one or more thin-walled tubes so that the one or more thin-walled tubes substantially conform to a shape of the cavity.

30. A treatment apparatus for delivery of localized treatment to tissue that remains after surgical resection, the resection resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue the apparatus comprising: a seed containment device configured to contain a plurality of radiation sources;a plurality of radiation sources disposed within the seed containment device;wherein the seed containment device is further configured to expand outwardly so that the seed containment device substantially conforms to a shape of the cavity and the radiation sources are disposed at substantially the perimeter of the seed containment device.

31. A brachytherapy apparatus for delivery of localized irradiation after tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the apparatus comprising: one or more thin-walled tubes, each of said thin-walled tubes being configured to contain a plurality of low-dose radioactive seed strands;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation; andan expansion element configured to expand outwardly said one or more thin-walled tubes within the cavity; andat least one opening configured to permit placement of the plurality of low dose radioactive seeds into the thin-walled tubes, during or after surgical implantation of the one or more thin-walled tubes.

32. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein the thin-walled tubes are configured to expand outwardly so that they substantially conform to a shape of the cavity.

33. The apparatus of claim 32, further comprising: one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to individually adjust each of the one or more thin-walled tubes to varying lengths in order to accommodate a size of the cavity.

34. A method for delivering localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity, the method comprising: creating access to the cavity;providing an interstitial brachytherapy apparatus, comprising: one or more thin-walled tubes, each of said thin-walled tubes being configured to contain a plurality of low-dose radioactive seed strands;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation;an expansion element configured to expand outwardly said one or more tubes; andat least one opening configured to permit placement of the plurality of low dose radioactive seeds into the thin-walled tubes, during or after surgical implantation of the one or more thin-walled tubes;placing the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus into the cavity;expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus;clamping the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus onto the patient;leaving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus inside the cavity for a sufficient time to deliver the prescribed radiation dose to remaining tissue that surrounds the cavity; andremoving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus.

35. The method of claim 34, wherein the thin-walled tubes of the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus are configured to substantially conform to a shape of the cavity; and wherein the expanding step further includes expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus outwardly so that the thin-walled tubes substantially conform to a size of the cavity.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus further comprises: one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to individually adjust each of the one or more thin-walled tubes to varying lengths in order to accommodate a size of the cavity

37. A brachytherapy apparatus for delivery of localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the brachytherapy apparatus comprising: a seed containment device configured to contain a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation; andat least one opening configured to permit placement of the plurality of low dose radioactive seeds into the seed containment device, during or after surgical implantation of the seed containment device; andwherein the seed containment device is further configured to expand outwardly so that the plurality of radioactive seeds are disposed at substantially the perimeter of the seed containment device.

38. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein the seed containment device is configured to expand outwardly so that it substantially conforms to a shape of the cavity.

39. A method for delivering localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity, the method comprising: creating access to the cavity;providing an interstitial brachytherapy apparatus, comprising: a seed containment device configured to contain a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation; andat least one opening configured to permit placement of the plurality of low dose radioactive seeds into the seed containment device, during or after surgical implantation of the seed containment device;wherein the seed containment device is further configured to expand outwardly so that the plurality of radioactive seeds are disposed at substantially the perimeter of the seed containment device;placing the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus into the cavity;expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus;clamping the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus onto the patient;leaving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus inside the cavity for a sufficient time to deliver the prescribed radiation dose to remaining tissue that surrounds the cavity; andremoving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus.

40. The method of claim 39, wherein the seed containment device of the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus is configured to substantially conform to a shape of the cavity; and wherein the expanding step further includes expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus outwardly so that the seed containment device substantially conforms to a size of the cavity.

41. A brachytherapy apparatus for delivery of localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the brachytherapy apparatus comprising: a plurality of stacked, substantially elliptical, thin-walled tubes, the plurality of tubes including an uppermost tube, at least one middle tube and a lowermost tube, wherein each tube has a top tube section, and a bottom tube section;connection mechanisms configured to connect each tube to at least one other tube such that the top tube section of one tube is connected to the bottom tube section of another tube with the exception of the uppermost tube; anda plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation; andat least one opening configured to permit placement of the plurality of low dose radioactive seeds into the thin-walled tubes, during or after surgical implantation of the thin-walled tubes;wherein the uppermost tube and the lowermost tube are of a lesser volume than the at least one middle tube;wherein the apparatus is configured to expand and collapse, the expanded state resulting in a greater volume for the apparatus than in its collapsed state;wherein the apparatus defines a diameter of an upper tube section, a middle tube section and a lower tube section; andwherein, in its expanded state, the diameter of the middle tube section is greater than the diameter of the upper tube section and the lower tube section.

42. The apparatus of claim 41, wherein the thin-walled tubes are configured to expand outwardly so that they substantially conform to a shape of the cavity.

43. The apparatus of claim 43, further comprising: one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to individually adjust each of the one or more thin-walled tubes to varying lengths in order to accommodate a size of the cavity.

44. A method for delivering localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity, the method comprising: creating access to the cavity;providing an interstitial brachytherapy apparatus, comprising: a plurality of stacked, substantially elliptical, thin-walled tubes, the plurality of tubes including an uppermost tube, at least one middle tube and a lowermost tube, wherein each tube has a top tube section, and a bottom tube section;connection mechanisms configured to connect each tube to at least one other tube such that the top tube section of one tube is connected to the bottom tube section of another tube with the exception of the uppermost tube;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation; andat least one opening configured to permit placement of the plurality of low dose radioactive seeds into the thin-walled tubes, during or after surgical implantation of the thin-walled tubes;wherein the uppermost tube and the lowermost tube are of a lesser volume than the at least one middle tube;wherein the apparatus is configured to expand and collapse, the expanded state resulting in a greater volume for the apparatus than in its collapsed state;wherein the apparatus defines a diameter of an upper tube section, a middle tube section and a lower tube section; andwherein, in its expanded state, the diameter of the middle tube section is greater than the diameter of the upper tube section and the lower tube section and the tubes and connection mechanisms are configured to substantially conform to a shape of the cavity;placing the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus into the cavity;expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus so that the plurality of thin-walled tubes substantially conform to the shape of the cavity;clamping the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus onto the patient;leaving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus inside the cavity for a sufficient time to deliver the prescribed radiation dose to remaining tissue that surrounds the cavity; andremoving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus.

45. The method of claim 44, wherein the thin-walled tubes of the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus are configured to substantially conform to a shape of the cavity; and wherein the expanding step further includes expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus outwardly so that the thin-walled tubes substantially conform to a size of the cavity.

46. The method of claim 45, wherein the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus further comprises: one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to individually adjust each of the one or more thin-walled tubes to varying lengths in order to accommodate a size of the cavity.

47. A brachytherapy apparatus for delivery of localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the brachytherapy apparatus comprising: a plurality of substantially cylindrical, thin-walled tubes, the wall of each tube being connected to the wall of at least one other tube;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation;at least one opening configured to permit placement of the plurality of low dose radioactive seeds into the thin-walled tubes, during or after surgical implantation of the thin-walled tubes; andan expansion element configured to expand outwardly said plurality of substantially cylindrical, thin-walled tubes.

48. The apparatus of claim 47, wherein the thin-walled tubes are configured to expand outwardly so that they substantially conform to a shape of the cavity.

49. The apparatus of claim 48, further comprising: one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to individually adjust each of the one or more thin-walled tubes to varying lengths in order to accommodate a size of the cavity.

50. A method for delivering localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity, the method comprising: creating access to the cavity;providing an interstitial brachytherapy apparatus, comprising: a plurality of substantially cylindrical, thin-walled tubes, the wall of each tube being connected to the wall of at least one other tube;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation;at least one opening configured to permit placement of the plurality of low dose radioactive seeds into the thin-walled tubes, during or after surgical implantation of the thin-walled tubes; andan expansion element configured to expand outwardly said plurality of substantially cylindrical, thin-walled tubes;placing the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus into the cavity;expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus;clamping the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus onto the patient;leaving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus inside the cavity for a sufficient time to deliver the prescribed radiation dose to remaining tissue that surrounds the cavity; andremoving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus.

51. The method of claim 50, wherein the thin-walled tubes of the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus are configured to substantially conform to a shape of the cavity; and wherein the expanding step further includes expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus outwardly so that the thin-walled tubes substantially conform to a size of the cavity.

52. The method of claim 51, wherein the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus further comprises: one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to individually adjust each of the one or more thin-walled tubes to varying lengths in order to accommodate a size of the cavity.

53. A brachytherapy apparatus for delivery of localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the brachytherapy apparatus comprising: a first set of tubes being configured in a first direction;a second set of tubes being configured in a second direction such that the second set of tubes intersects with the first set of tubes to define an upper tube section, a middle tube section and a lower tube section, each of said tubes sections defining a diameter;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation; andat least one opening configured to permit placement of the plurality of low dose radioactive seeds into the first and second sets of tubes, during or after surgical implantation of the first and second sets of tubes; andwherein, in its expanded state, the diameter of the middle tube section is greater than the diameter of the upper tube section and the lower tube section; andwherein the volume of the apparatus in its first state is lesser than the volume of the apparatus in its second state.

54. The apparatus of claim 53, wherein the first and second sets of tubes are configured to expand outwardly so that they substantially conform to a shape of the cavity.

55. The apparatus of claim 56, further comprising: one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to individually adjust each tube in the first and second sets of tubes to varying lengths in order to accommodate a size of the cavity.

56. A method for delivering localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity, the method comprising: creating access to the cavity;providing an interstitial brachytherapy apparatus, comprising: a first set of tubes being configured in a first direction;a second set of tubes being configured in a second direction such that the second set of tubes intersects with the first set of tubes to define an upper tube section, a middle tube section and a lower tube section, each of said tubes sections defining a diameter;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation; andat least one opening configured to permit placement of the plurality of low dose radioactive seeds into the thin-walled tubes, during or after surgical implantation of the first and second sets of tubes; andwherein, in its expanded state, the diameter of the middle tube section is greater than the diameter of the upper tube section and the lower tube section; andwherein the volume of the apparatus in its first state is lesser than the volume of the apparatus in its second state;placing the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus into the cavity;expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus;clamping the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus onto the patient;leaving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus inside the cavity for a sufficient time to deliver the prescribed radiation dose to remaining tissue that surrounds the cavity; andremoving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus.

57. The method of claim 56, wherein the first and second sets of tubes of the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus are configured to substantially conform to a shape of the cavity; and wherein the expanding step further includes expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus outwardly so that the first and second sets of tubes substantially conform to a size of the cavity.

58. The method of claim 57, wherein the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus further comprises: one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to individually adjust each of the one or more thin-walled tubes to varying lengths in order to accommodate a size of the cavity.

59. A brachytherapy apparatus for delivery of localized irradiation after tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the apparatus comprising: one or more thin-walled tubes, each of said thin-walled tubes being configured to contain a plurality of low-dose radioactive seed strands;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds, the seeds including at least one low-dose radioactive seed strand disposed within the one or more thin-walled tubes, the plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds being configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation;one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to individually adjust each of the one or more thin-walled tubes to varying lengths in order to accommodate a size of the cavity; andan expansion element configured to expand outwardly said one or more thin-walled tubes within the cavity.

60. The apparatus of claim 59, wherein the thin-walled tubes are configured to expand outwardly so that they substantially conform to a shape of the cavity.

61. A method for delivering localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity, the method comprising: creating access to the cavity;providing an interstitial brachytherapy apparatus, comprising: one or more thin-walled tubes, each of said thin-walled tubes being configured to contain a plurality of low-dose radioactive seed strands;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds, the seeds including at least one low-dose radioactive seed strand disposed within the one or more thin-walled tubes, the plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds being configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation;one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to individually adjust each of the one or more thin-walled tubes to varying lengths in order to accommodate a size of the cavity; andan expansion element configured to expand outwardly said one or more thin-walled tubes within the cavity;placing the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus into the cavity;expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus;clamping the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus onto the patient;leaving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus inside the cavity for a sufficient time to deliver the prescribed radiation dose to remaining tissue that surrounds the cavity; andremoving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus.

62. The method of claim 61, wherein the thin-walled tubes of the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus are configured to substantially conform to a shape of the cavity; and wherein the expanding step further includes expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus outwardly so that the thin-walled tubes substantially conform to a size of the cavity.

63. A brachytherapy apparatus for delivery of localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the brachytherapy apparatus comprising: a plurality of stacked, substantially elliptical, thin-walled tubes, the plurality of tubes including an uppermost tube, at least one middle tube and a lowermost tube, wherein each tube has a top tube section, and a bottom tube section;connection mechanisms configured to connect each tube to at least one other tube such that the top tube section of one tube is connected to the bottom tube section of another tube with the exception of the uppermost tube;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds disposed within the thin-walled tubes, the plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds being configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation;one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to individually adjust each of the one or more thin-walled tubes to varying lengths in order to accommodate a size of the cavity; andwherein the uppermost tube and the lowermost tube are of a lesser volume than the at least one middle tube;wherein the apparatus is configured to expand and collapse, the expanded state resulting in a greater volume for the apparatus than in its collapsed state;wherein the apparatus defines a diameter of an upper tube section, a middle tube section and a lower tube section; andwherein, in its expanded state, the diameter of the middle tube section is greater than the diameter of the upper tube section and the lower tube section.

64. The apparatus of claim 63, wherein the thin-walled tubes are configured to expand outwardly so that they substantially conform to a shape of the cavity.

65. A method for delivering localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity, the method comprising: creating access to the cavity;providing an interstitial brachytherapy apparatus, comprising: a plurality of stacked, substantially elliptical, thin-walled tubes, the plurality of tubes including an uppermost tube, at least one middle tube and a lowermost tube, wherein each tube has a top tube section, and a bottom tube section;connection mechanisms configured to connect each tube to at least one other tube such that the top tube section of one tube is connected to the bottom tube section of another tube with the exception of the uppermost tube;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds disposed within the thin-walled tubes, the plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds being configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation;one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to individually adjust each of the one or more thin-walled tubes to varying lengths in order to accommodate a size of the cavity; andwherein the uppermost tube and the lowermost tube are of a lesser volume than the at least one middle tube;wherein the apparatus is configured to expand and collapse, the expanded state resulting in a greater volume for the apparatus than in its collapsed state;wherein the apparatus defines a diameter of an upper tube section, a middle tube section and a lower tube section; andwherein, in its expanded state, the diameter of the middle tube section is greater than the diameter of the upper tube section and the lower tube section;placing the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus into the cavity;expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus;clamping the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus onto the patient;leaving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus inside the cavity for a sufficient time to deliver the prescribed radiation dose to remaining tissue that surrounds the cavity; andremoving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus.

66. The method of claim 65, wherein the thin-walled tubes of the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus are configured to substantially conform to a shape of the cavity; and wherein the expanding step further includes expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus outwardly so that the thin-walled tubes substantially conform to a size of the cavity.

67. A brachytherapy apparatus for delivery of localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the brachytherapy apparatus comprising: a plurality of substantially cylindrical, thin-walled tubes, the wall of each tube being connected to the wall of at least one other tube;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds, including at least one low-dose radioactive seed strand disposed within the one or more thin-walled tubes, the plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds being configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation;one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to individually adjust each of the one or more thin-walled tubes to varying lengths in order to accommodate a size of the cavity; andan expansion element configured to expand outwardly said plurality of substantially cylindrical, thin-walled tubes.

68. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the thin-walled tubes are configured to expand outwardly so that they substantially conform to a shape of the cavity.

69. A method for delivering localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity, the method comprising: creating access to the cavity;providing an interstitial brachytherapy apparatus, comprising: a plurality of substantially cylindrical, thin-walled tubes, the wall of each tube being connected to the wall of at least one other tube;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds, including at least one low-dose radioactive seed strand disposed within the one or more thin-walled tubes, the plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds being configured to deliver a prescribed dose of radiation;one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to individually adjust each of the one or more thin-walled tubes to varying lengths in order to accommodate a size of the cavity; andan expansion element configured to expand outwardly said plurality of substantially cylindrical, thin-walled tubes;placing the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus into the cavity;expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus;clamping the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus onto the patient;leaving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus inside the cavity for a sufficient time to deliver the prescribed radiation dose to remaining tissue that surrounds the cavity; andremoving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus.

70. The method of claim 69, wherein the thin-walled tubes of the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus are configured to substantially conform to a shape of the cavity; and wherein the expanding step further includes expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus outwardly so that the thin-walled tubes substantially conform to a size of the cavity.

71. A brachytherapy apparatus for delivery of localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity surrounded by remaining tissue, the brachytherapy apparatus comprising: a first set of tubes being configured in a first direction;a second set of tubes being configured in a second direction such that the second set of tubes intersects with the first set of tubes to define an upper tube section, a middle tube section and a lower tube section, each of said tubes sections defining a diameter;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds disposed within the first and second sets of tubes;one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to individually adjust each of the one or more thin-walled tubes to varying lengths in order to accommodate a size of the cavity;wherein, in its expanded state, the diameter of the middle tube section is greater than the diameter of the upper tube section and the lower tube section; andwherein the volume of the apparatus in its first state is lesser than the volume of the apparatus in its second state.

72. The apparatus of claim 71, wherein the thin-walled tubes are configured to expand outwardly so that they substantially conform to a shape of the cavity.

73. A method for delivering localized irradiation after surgical tissue removal, the tissue removal resulting in a cavity, the method comprising: creating access to the cavity;providing an interstitial brachytherapy apparatus, comprising: a first set of tubes being configured in a first direction;a second set of tubes being configured in a second direction such that the second set of tubes intersects with the first set of tubes to define an upper tube section, a middle tube section and a lower tube section, each of said tubes sections defining a diameter;a plurality of low-dose radioactive seeds disposed within the first and second sets of tubes;one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to individually adjust each of the one or more thin-walled tubes to varying lengths in order to accommodate a size of the cavity;wherein, in its expanded state, the diameter of the middle tube section is greater than the diameter of the upper tube section and the lower tube section; andwherein the volume of the apparatus in its first state is lesser than the volume of the apparatus in its second state;placing the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus into the cavity;expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus;clamping the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus onto the patient;leaving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus inside the cavity for a sufficient time to deliver the prescribed radiation dose to remaining tissue that surrounds the cavity; andremoving the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus.

74. The method of claim 73, wherein the thin-walled tubes of the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus are configured to substantially conform to a shape of the cavity; and wherein the expanding step further includes expanding the interstitial brachytherapy apparatus outwardly so that the thin-walled tubes substantially conform to a size of the cavity.

75. The apparatus of claim 1, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 34, 37, 39, 41, 44, 47, 50, 53, 56, 59, 61, 63, 65, 67, 69, 71 or 73, wherein the cavity is located in a breast or near breast tissue.