U.S. patent application number 14/987529 was filed with the patent office on 2016-04-28 for plasma-assisted skin treatment.
The applicant listed for this patent is M.O.E. MEDICAL DEVICES LLC. Invention is credited to Gennady Friedman, Marc I. Zemel.
Application Number | 20160113701 14/987529 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49775018 |
Filed Date | 2016-04-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160113701 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Zemel; Marc I. ; et
al. |
April 28, 2016 |
PLASMA-ASSISTED SKIN TREATMENT
Abstract
The present disclosure provides a variety of systems, techniques
and machine readable programs for using plasmas to treat different
skin conditions as well as other conditions, such as tumors,
bacterial infections and the like.
Inventors: |
Zemel; Marc I.; (New
Rochelle, NY) ; Friedman; Gennady; (Richboro,
PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
M.O.E. MEDICAL DEVICES LLC |
New Rochelle |
NY |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
49775018 |
Appl. No.: |
14/987529 |
Filed: |
January 4, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13943012 |
Jul 16, 2013 |
9226790 |
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14987529 |
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PCT/US2012/031923 |
Apr 2, 2012 |
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13943012 |
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14215214 |
Mar 17, 2014 |
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PCT/US2012/031923 |
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14215214 |
Mar 17, 2014 |
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14215214 |
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PCT/US12/55726 |
Sep 17, 2012 |
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14215214 |
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PCT/US12/31923 |
Apr 2, 2012 |
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PCT/US12/55726 |
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14584357 |
Dec 29, 2014 |
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PCT/US12/31923 |
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61584399 |
Jan 9, 2012 |
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61803775 |
Mar 20, 2013 |
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61803776 |
Mar 20, 2013 |
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61584399 |
Jan 9, 2012 |
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61535986 |
Sep 17, 2011 |
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61921304 |
Dec 27, 2013 |
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62119342 |
Feb 23, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
604/23 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 2018/00452
20130101; A61B 18/042 20130101; A61B 18/08 20130101; A61B
2018/00119 20130101; A61B 2018/00321 20130101; A61B 2018/147
20130101; A61N 5/0625 20130101; A61N 5/0624 20130101; H05H 1/2406
20130101; A61B 18/04 20130101; A61N 2005/0659 20130101; A61N
2005/0661 20130101; A61B 2018/122 20130101; A61N 2005/0662
20130101; A61B 2018/0016 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61B 18/04 20060101
A61B018/04 |
Claims
1. A system for generating a plasma discharge, comprising: a) an
inflatable member including at least one electrode; and b) a power
supply in electrical communication with the flexible electrode, the
power supply being adapted and configured to apply power to the
electrode to cause a plasma to be generated between the electrode
and an anatomical region of interest.
2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a dielectric layer
substantially surrounding the electrode, the dielectric layer being
adapted and configured to be disposed against the anatomical region
of interest, wherein the plasma is generated between the dielectric
layer and the anatomical region of interest.
3. The system of claim 2, wherein the dielectric layer is a portion
of the inflatable member, and the at least one electrode includes a
conductive medium that is used to selectively inflate the
inflatable member.
4. The system of claim 2, wherein the dielectric layer forms a
plurality of protrusions on an exterior surface of the inflatable
member, wherein the protrusions act to space at least a portion of
the exterior surface of the inflatable member from the anatomical
region of interest.
5. The system of claim 4, wherein the protrusions have a height
extending from the exterior surface between about 0.01 mm-5 mm,
0.1-0.5 mm, 0.5-1.0 mm, 1.0-1.5 mm, 1.5-2.0 mm, 2.0-2.5 mm, 2.5-3.0
mm, 3.0-3.5 mm, 3.5-4.0 mm, 4.0-4.5 mm, 4.5-5.0 mm, or combinations
thereof.
6. The system of claim 4, wherein the protrusions are separated by
a distance between about 0.01 mm-5 mm, 0.1-0.5 mm, 0.5-1.0 mm,
1.0-1.5 mm, 1.5-2.0 mm, 2.0-2.5 mm, 2.5-3.0 mm, 3.0-3.5 mm, 3.5-4.0
mm, 4.0-4.5 mm, 4.5-5.0 mm, or combinations thereof.
7. The system of claim 4, wherein the protrusions include at least
one of bumps, ridges and undulations.
8. A method, comprising: a) providing an inflatable member
including at least one electrode; b) introducing the inflatable
member into a region to be treated in a deflated state; c)
inflating the inflatable member to an inflated state; d) disposing
the electrode proximate tissue to be treated; e) activating a power
supply in electrical communication with the flexible electrode, the
power supply being adapted and configured to apply power to the
electrode to cause a plasma to be generated between the electrode
and the tissue to be treated.
9. The method of claim 8, wherein the inflatable member includes a
dielectric layer substantially surrounding the electrode, and the
dielectric layer is adapted and configured to be disposed against
the tissue to be treated.
10. The method of claim 8, wherein the inflatable member is
inflated with a conductive medium that carries electrical current
when the plasma is generated.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein the conductive medium contacts
an electrode formed into the inflatable member to complete an
electrical circuit to generate the plasma.
12. The method of claim 10, wherein the conductive medium forms the
electrode.
13. The method of claim 8, further comprising providing an exposure
indicator, the exposure indicator being adapted to indicate the
amount of exposure of the tissue to be treated to the plasma, and
detecting the exposure of the tissue to the plasma.
14. The method of claim 8, wherein the exposure indicator includes
at least one compound that reacts to the exposure from plasma.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the exposure indicator provides
a visual indication of exposure to plasma.
16. The method of claim 8, further comprising applying a
sensitizing material to the tissue to be treated prior to
application of the plasma.
17. The method of claim 8, further comprising applying a blocking
material to tissue proximate the treatment area to protect the
tissue proximate the treatment area from plasma.
18. A processor-readable computer program stored on a tangible
non-transient medium for operating a plasma treatment device
including a controller, a power source operably coupled and
controlled by the controller, and an electrode in operable
communication with the power source and controller, wherein the
program comprises instructions to cause the controller to operate
the power source to induce a plasma between the electrode and a
treatment area.
19. The computer program of claim 18, wherein plasma treatment
device further includes a controllable gas delivery system for
directing gas to the treatment area, and wherein the computer
program further includes instructions for controlling the flow of
gas to the treatment area.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/943,012, filed Jul. 16, 2013, which in turn
is a continuation of International Patent Application No.
PCT/US2012/031923, filed Apr. 2, 2012, which in turn claims the
benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.
61/584,399, filed Jan. 9, 2012.
[0002] This patent application is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 14/215,214, filed Mar. 17, 2014, which
in turn claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 61/803,775, filed Mar. 20, 2013 and U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/803,776, filed Mar. 20,
2013.
[0003] This patent application is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 14/215,214, filed Mar. 17, 2014, which
in turn is a continuation of and claims the benefit of priority of
International Patent Application No. PCT/US12/55726, filed Sep. 17,
2012, which in turn claims the benefit of priority of International
Patent Application No. PCT/US12/31923, filed Apr. 2, 2012, U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/584,399, filed Jan. 9,
2012, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/535,986,
filed Sep. 17, 2011.
[0004] This patent application is a continuation in part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 14/584,357, filed Dec. 29, 2014, which
in turn claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 61/921,304, filed Dec. 27, 2013.
[0005] This patent application also claims the benefit of priority
of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/119,342, filed
Feb. 23, 2015. The disclosure of each of the aforementioned patent
applications is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety
for any purpose whatsoever.
BACKGROUND
[0006] 1. Field of the Disclosure
[0007] The present disclosure relates to methods and systems for
treating skin conditions. Particularly, the present disclosure is
directed to the treatment of skin conditions in a manner that is
assisted and/or enhanced by use of plasma.
[0008] 2. Description of Related Art
[0009] There are numerous chronic skin diseases and conditions for
which there is a lack of optimal treatments. These include acne,
rosacea, dermatitis, chronic wounds, actinic keratosis, basal cell
carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, Bowen's disease, hailey-hailey
disease, pemphigus, cheilitis, impetigo, cellulitis, psoriasis, and
many others. There are yet additional skin conditions that are
considered more "cosmetic", such as vitiligo, wrinkles (rhytids),
large pores, sagging skin, lentigo (tattoos, scars,
hyperpigmentation, etc.), hemangiomas, and others. Some of these
conditions are caused by infectious pathogens and others are caused
by problems in the immune system leading to inflammations and other
symptoms. Still others are cancers or pre-cancerous lesions caused
by accumulation of mutated cells. Current treatments for these
indications include topical drugs, systemic drugs and electrical or
laser-based heating. Each of these treatments suffers from one or
more shortcomings as described below:
[0010] Topical Drugs--have some effectiveness at killing the
underlying infections, but can generate pathogenic resistance,
leading to decreased efficacy. Dosing cycles can also be long--they
can run from 6 to 18 months in some cases--or inconvenient
(multiple applications per day), which can lead to reduced patient
compliance. Also, some topical drugs can cause severe skin
irritation and erythema, such as imiquimod, a treatment for actinic
keratosis. Yet other limitations of topical drugs and creams
include the inability to inhibit recurrence of the problem.
[0011] Systemic drugs--can also be effective at killing the
underlying infection, but have several potential side effects (such
as liver failure) and can require relatively long dosing cycles
(daily pills up to 6 months). Common examples include terbinafine
and itraconazole.
[0012] Electrical or laser-based heating--various approaches have
been attempted. However, most involve attempting to provide the
heat required to kill the pathogen while preserving the underlying
tissue. These attempts have proved difficult to implement in
practice due to poor control of the heat distribution. This poor
localization of the heat can lead to damage to the surrounding
tissue or limited effectiveness in achieving the desired effect on
the targeted tissue. The present disclosure presents improvements
on the state of the art as set forth hereinbelow.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0013] The purpose and advantages of the present disclosure will be
set forth in and become apparent from the description that follows.
Additional advantages of the disclosed embodiments will be realized
and attained by the methods and systems particularly pointed out in
the written description hereof, as well as from the appended
drawings.
[0014] To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with
the purpose of the disclosure, as embodied herein, the disclosure
includes a variety of exemplary skin treatment methods and
associated systems using plasma, preferably plasma sustained at
atmospheric pressures. For example, the plasma can include a corona
discharge plasma, a dielectric barrier discharge plasma, a
microdischarge plasma, an inductively coupled plasma, a microwave
induced plasma and/or capacitively coupled radio frequency induced
plasma. In one embodiment, the plasma is generated over the surface
of a treatment device, which extends toward the surface of the
treated skin in some spots. In another embodiment, a high electric
field is created in air that is proximal to skin and the skin
serves as the second electrode. When the electric field exceeds the
air/gas breakdown field, plasma will be created. The plasma can be
sustained in the same way as conventional dielectric barrier
discharge or pulsed corona discharge by pulsing or otherwise time
varying the voltage applied to the air that is proximal to the
skin.
[0015] Plasma can also be created on or proximate the surface of
hair that protrudes from the skin. In this embodiment, the plasma
is created in air or other gaseous media that is in contact with
the desired hair surfaces. For example, a dielectric barrier
discharge plasma can be created using a suspended or floating
electrode whereby the hair protruding from the skin guides the
plasma along its surface into the skin. Alternately, a plasma "jet"
can be created, whereby the plasma is formed within an electrode
system and then directed at the target skin or hair surface via
pressurized gas flow or a magnetic field.
[0016] One of the problems appreciated by Applicant with
maintaining a sufficiently powerful plasma discharge in close
proximity to the skin is the tendency for the plasma to
self-organize into multiple microdischarges and for these
microdischarges to form in specific locations (such as the high
spots) between the skin and the electrode. For some skin
treatments, such as for treating infections or inflammations spread
throughout some area of the skin, this feature is not desirable
because the plasma intensity including electron concentration,
radical concentration, gas temperature can be so large within the
microdischarge as to cause local damage, erythema, irritation, and
pain. Microdischarge damage can become particularly significant if
the microdischarge is remains in the same position over the
treatment area. One important aspect of the present disclosure is
that it provides several ways to prevent microdischarge formation
and fixation, such as:
[0017] Using electrodes with curved surfaces that come in contact
with the skin in some areas to which plasma can be guided along the
electrode surface avoiding formation of microdischarges that bridge
the gaps between the electrode and the skin.
[0018] Scanning the electrode rapidly (manually or with a motor)
across the skin.
[0019] Using rapid (e.g., several or tens of nanoseconds) pulsing
of the voltage waveform, such that the resulting waveform has rise
and fall times durations shorter than the time required for the
formation of microdischarges.
[0020] Varying the electrode position via vibration, oscillation or
other motions caused by an electrically operable vibration
generation device (such as with a piezomotor or other oscillatory
motor).
[0021] Using microdischarge electrodes having sub-millimeter sizes
and applying them in stationary or scanning exposures.
[0022] Using the above-described techniques can facilitate the
application of stronger electric fields at higher frequency, which
can be expected to lead to a greater plasma intensity and shorter
resulting overall treatment times, while minimizing the adverse
effects associated with microdischarge formation. Use of such
techniques can also increase the presence of reactive ion species
("ROS"), which Applicant believes to be beneficial.
[0023] In accordance with further aspects, the techniques disclosed
herein can be used in combination with the application of
particular wavelength ranges of light. In accordance with a
preferred embodiment, blue light (e.g., from about 360 nm-480 nm
wavelength) is also applied to tissue being treated. Thus, plasma
can be applied in addition to the blue light, such that the tissue
is being exposed to heat from the plasma, reactive ion species
generated by the plasma, and blue light. The blue light can be
generated in whole or in part by the plasma, or in combination with
a second blue light source. By way of further example, most or all
of the blue light can be provided from a source in addition to the
plasma. Such a source of blue light can include a blue laser (e.g.,
GaN type), blue LED's (e.g., GaN type), mercury lamps, and the
like. Blue light can be applied using a suitable dosage, such as
between about 1 mJ/cm.sup.2 and about 500 J/cm.sup.2, between about
100 J/cm.sup.2 and about 2500 J/cm.sup.2, between about 150
J/cm.sup.2 and about 1500 J/cm.sup.2, between about 200 J/cm.sup.2
and about 1000 J/cm.sup.2, between about 250 J/cm.sup.2 and about
1000 J/cm.sup.2, between about 300 J/cm.sup.2 and about 500
J/cm.sup.2, between about 350 J/cm.sup.2 and about 450 J/cm.sup.2,
between about 300 J/cm.sup.2 and about 400 J/cm.sup.2, and between
about 300 J/cm.sup.2 and about 350 J/cm.sup.2, or any subrange in
any of the aforementioned ranges of 1 mJ/cm.sup.2 or multiple of 10
mJ/cm.sup.2. The treatment time in which any of the aforementioned
energy quantities is applied is preferably between about 0.01
seconds and about 100 seconds, between about 0.1 seconds and about
50 seconds, between about 1 second and about 25 seconds, and
between about 5 seconds and about 15 seconds, or any subrange in
any of the aforementioned ranges of 0.5 seconds or multiple of 0.5
seconds. Other wavelengths of light can be applied in combination
with plasma to enhance the treatment effects as appropriate, such
as infrared light, in any of the aforementioned combinations of
energy doses and treatment times.
[0024] In accordance with further aspects, the techniques disclosed
herein can be used in combination with the application of heating
(via conduction, infrared light, plasma, or other electrical) or
cooling. In accordance with a preferred embodiment, heating is also
applied to the tissue being treated. Thus plasma can be applied in
addition to the heating, such that the tissue is being exposed to
heat, reactive ion species generated by the plasma, light emission
from the plasma, and electric field generated within the plasma.
The heat can be generated in whole or in part by the plasma or in
combination with a second heating source. By way of further
example, most or all of the heat can be provided from a source in
addition to the plasma. Such a source of heat can included a
resistive heater, convective heater (forced air), infrared LED's,
heating lamps, and the like.
[0025] Additional features are disclosed herein to facilitate the
safe usage of exemplary devices by untrained personnel to treat
differently-shaped portions of the body. These include safety
protections, control schemes, ergonomic holding structures,
electrode structures, and spacing means, among other features.
Estimated treatment time is preferably at least a tenth of a second
and preferably no more than 1 hour, and in any desired time
increment therebetween in increments of one minute or a multiple of
minutes or in increments of one second or multiple seconds, as
desired. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general
description and the following detailed description are exemplary
and are intended to provide further explanation of the embodiments
disclosed herein.
[0026] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
constitute part of this specification, are included to illustrate
and provide a further understanding of the methods and systems of
the disclosure. Together with the description, the drawings serve
to explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] FIG. 1 is a schematic showing an exemplary electrode having
a treatment end covered by a dielectric.
[0028] FIG. 2 is a schematic showing an exemplary electrode having
a spherical treatment end.
[0029] FIG. 3 is a schematic showing an exemplary electrode having
a cylindrical treatment end.
[0030] FIG. 4 is a schematic showing an exemplary electrode coupled
to a spring to help minimize application force variation.
[0031] FIG. 5 is a schematic showing an exemplary microdischarge
array connected to a power supply and control system.
[0032] FIG. 6 is a schematic showing an exemplary electrode coupled
to an electrically controllable vibration generator.
[0033] FIG. 7 is a schematic showing an exemplary treatment
electrode employing a surface plasma.
[0034] FIG. 8 is a schematic showing an exemplary treatment
electrode employing small holes to help initiate the plasma
formation at lower voltages and/or less complex waveforms.
[0035] FIG. 9 is a schematic showing an exemplary flexible
treatment electrode with an integrated spacer.
[0036] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of an exemplary electrode in
accordance with the disclosure.
[0037] FIG. 11 is an exemplary embodiment of a flexible treatment
device in accordance with the disclosure.
[0038] FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of a flexible plasma
emitter in accordance with the disclosure.
[0039] FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of a further flexible
plasma emitter in accordance with the disclosure.
[0040] FIG. 14 is a cross sectional view of an exemplary inflatable
plasma emitter in accordance with the disclosure.
[0041] FIG. 15 is an exemplary system in accordance with the
present disclosure.
[0042] FIG. 16 illustrates a flexible plasma emitter in accordance
with the disclosure being applied to an arm of a patient.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0043] Reference will now be made in detail to the present
preferred embodiments of the disclosure, examples of which are
illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The methods and
corresponding steps of the disclosed embodiments will be described
in conjunction with the detailed description of the exemplary
systems.
[0044] By way of introduction, plasma, sometimes referred to as the
"fourth state of matter", typically includes partially and/or fully
ionized gas molecules and can be produced and directed in a variety
of ways and geometries. More specifically, a plasma can be thought
of as a gas having molecules that can be partially or fully ionized
and electrons that have kinetic energy sufficient to strip at least
one electron from at least one of the gas molecules through
collisions, such that the resulting plasma includes a mixture of
positively charged ions in a sea of free electrons that may or may
not also include neutral species mixed therewith. Plasmas can be
used for a variety of purposes, including sterilization, blood
coagulation, ozone generation, chemical processing, light sources,
ion sources (for propulsion) and heat sources, among others. As a
result of the relative simplicity of the construction of gas
discharges as opposed to other emitters, such as solid state
lasers, it is possible to create a variety of structures to provide
a distributed energy source at an economical cost. Perhaps the best
example of such arrays is the plasma television.
[0045] In accordance with the present disclosure, skin treatment
methods and related systems have been developed using atmospheric
pressure plasmas, that is to say, plasmas that can exist in a room
environment at standard conditions or conditions that vary slightly
therefrom (e.g. at standard temperature and pressure "STP"). The
plasma can be a corona, dielectric barrier discharge,
microdischarge; inductively coupled plasma, microwave induced
plasma, or capacitively coupled radio frequency induced plasma. The
plasma can also be induced as the result of a laser exposure. In
one embodiment, plasma is created in proximity to the skin for a
duration of at least one tenth of a second and no more than one
hour, or any duration therebetween in increments of one or more
minutes, one or more seconds, or one or more tenths of seconds, as
desired. The plasma produces reactive chemical species such as
hydroxyl radicals (OH), nitrous oxide (NO.sub.2), nitric oxide
(NO), ozone (O.sub.3), superoxide (O.sub.2.sup.-) that kill the
pathogens responsible for skin conditions such as acne. The plasma
also emits light of a variety of wavelengths, generates heat, ions,
and electrons. The combination of these species and energy
emissions can react with or cause reactions within the skin that
can affect the local cellular makeup, inflammation or other
cellular processes and thereby alleviate the symptoms of such skin
conditions as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and vitiligo. Acne, for
example, has multiple causes, including comedogenesis (blockage of
the sebaceous glands), excess sebum (oil) production, infection via
p. acnes, and inflammation. In fact, the bacteria, p. acnes, feeds
on the sebum and lives in the clogged pores. These pores typically
do not consist of "living" tissue. Other embodiments are also
presented.
[0046] For purposes of illustration only, and not limitation, FIG.
1 shows a schematic of an exemplary curved treatment electrode 1,
covered by a dielectric layer 2 and electrode support 3. The
electrode 1 is connected to a power supply and control system 10.
FIG. 2 shows a schematic of a spherical treatment electrode 1,
covered by a dielectric layer 2 and connected to a power supply and
control system 10. FIG. 3 shows a cylindrical treatment electrode
1, connected to an electrode support structure 3, which is
connected to a power supply and control system 10. Alternatively,
the electrode support structure 3 can contain the power supply and
control system 10, which enables the device to become hand held.
FIG. 4 shows a detailed cross-sectional schematic of a treatment
electrode 1 covered by a dielectric layer 2, joined with a
mechanical spacing means/spacer 12, and connected by spring(s) 4
and an electrical cable 5 to an electrical support structure 3. The
spacing means 12 optionally has a second, grounding electrode (not
shown). A hard stop 7 prevents overcompression of the springs 4.
FIG. 5 shows a schematic of a microdischarge electrode array having
a base dielectric substrate 22, electrical cathode conductors 21a,
electrical anode conductors 21b, and microcavities 15. The
conductors are connected to a power supply and control system 10.
FIG. 6 shows a detailed cross-sectional schematic view of a
treatment electrode 1, covered by a dielectric layer 2, which is
connected to an electrical support structure 3 via spring(s) 4, an
electrical cable 5, and an electrically controllable vibration
generator 6 (such as a piezomotor). The electrical support
structure 3 has a spacer 12 mounted to it or integral to it, which
optionally constrains the motion of electrode 1 and which
optionally has a second, grounding electrode (not shown). FIG. 7
shows a side cross sectional schematic view of a treatment
electrode 1, covered by a dielectric layer 2, which is brought in
contact to an area of the body 20. The dielectric layer 2 has a
varying surface profile that leads to gaps being defined between
the main dielectric layer and the body 20. The treatment electrode
1 is connected to a power supply and control system (not shown).
FIG. 8 shows a side cross sectional schematic view of a treatment
electrode 1, covered by a dielectric layer 2, which has multiple
small holes 25. The dielectric layer 2 is brought in contact to an
area of the body 20. The dielectric layer may or may not have a
varying surface profile that leads to gaps between the main
dielectric layer and the body 20. The treatment electrode 1 is
connected to a power supply and control system (not shown). FIG. 9
shows a side cross-sectional schematic of a flexible treatment
electrode 1, covered by a dielectric layer 2. A spacer 12 permits
the device to maintain a specific gap between the treatment
electrode 1, and the body 20. The treatment electrode is connected
to a power supply and control system (not shown).
[0047] In accordance with the disclosed embodiments, the treatment
electrode may include multiple materials and have multiple shapes
and surface finishes. Some example materials include aluminum or
other conductor and alumina (Al.sub.2O.sub.3) dielectric, copper or
other conductor and silicon nitride dielectric, conductor and
quartz dielectric, conductor with rubber or plastic dielectrics
(such as a metal conductor with silicone or epoxy with or without
glass reinforcement), and conductor with a foam dielectric (such as
silicone, polyurethane, or polyethylene foam). The choice of the
dielectric material is based on the dielectric breakdown strength,
dielectric constant, and the intended duration of usage. Some
material combinations may be more suitable for long-term usage
(such as copper and quartz), whereas other material combinations
may be more suitable for short-term or single time usage. In the
case of a foam dielectric, the pores of the foam are designed such
that a microdischarge may form in each of a plurality of pores.
These microdischarges are sufficiently numerous such that no
individual microdischarge has sufficient energy to cause damage,
pain, erythema, or irritation. The dielectric layers have a minimum
thickness of about 10 microns and are attached to the conductor,
for example, by molding, laminating, bonding, brazing, welding,
mechanical joining. Alternatively, the dielectric layer may be
applied via a coating process, such as anodizing or thermal
spraying or by an oxidation process. The shape of the conductor may
be flat or curved, which will affect the distribution, location and
intensity of the plasma created. If the treatment electrode is
smaller than the affected skin area, then the operator will have to
sweep the electrode over the desired treatment area to generate the
plasma where required. Alternately, the treatment electrode may
have the same size or substantially the same size as the desired
treatment area, in which case the operator can apply the electrode
in contact with the desired treatment area and maintain its
position for the duration of treatment. The connection of the
treatment electrodes to the electrical support structure may be
rigid or adjustable.
[0048] In order to prevent formation of powerful microdischarges
that bridge the gap between the electrode surface and skin and
remain in one specific location on the skin for a period longer
than about 1 second, one or more of the following exemplary
techniques can be used:
[0049] Electrodes having non-uniform air (gas) gap and some
portions of the electrode surface extending so as to be in or near
contact with skin can be used to create plasma on the electrode
surface and guide this surface plasma toward the skin localizing
around the point of contact or near contact between the electrode
and the skin.
[0050] Scanning the electrode rapidly (manually or with a motor)
across the skin so as to treat areas that may not be sufficiently
exposed to the plasma when the electrode is immobile.
[0051] Use of high voltage waveforms that are similar to pulses
having rise time and fall time in the range between 1 picosecond
and 100 nanoseconds so as to form plasma where strong
microdischarges do not have sufficient time to be created.
[0052] Varying the electrode Z-position (that is, the gap between
the electrode and the skin) via vibration, oscillation or other
motions (such as with a piezomotor or other oscillatory motor) such
that plasma is formed between different portions of the electrode
area and the skin, depending on the magnitude of the gap.
[0053] Use of microdischarge electrodes having sub-millimeter sizes
and applying them in stationary or scanning exposures.
[0054] As shown in FIG. 8, small openings or holes can be defined
in the dielectric layer. These holes can change the nature of the
plasma discharge. The characteristic dimension of the
microdischarges is on the order of 100 to 200 microns (diameter).
As shown in FIG. 7, when the hole diameter is significantly smaller
than the microdischarge diameter, the amount of current that can be
passed through the hole to the electrode can be significantly
restricted permitting generation of non-thermal plasma possibly
even without AC voltage waveform typical of a dielectric barrier
discharge.
[0055] In the case of pulsed operation, devices and associated
methods are provided that provide pulsed voltages over time with
very short duration. In accordance with one embodiment, the pulse
duration can use any suitable voltage and be between about 0.010
seconds and about 0.10 seconds. In accordance with another
embodiment, the pulse duration is between about 0.0010 seconds and
about 0.010 seconds. In accordance with still another embodiment,
the pulse duration is between about 0.00010 seconds and about
0.0010 seconds. In accordance with yet another embodiment, the
pulse duration is between about 0.000010 seconds and about 0.00010
seconds. In accordance with another embodiment, the pulse duration
is between about 0.0000010 seconds and about 0.000010 seconds. In
accordance with still another embodiment, the pulse duration is
between about 0.00000010 seconds and about 0.0000010 seconds. In
accordance with a further embodiment, the pulse duration is between
about 0.000000010 seconds and about 0.00000010 seconds. In
accordance with still a further embodiment, the pulse duration is
between about 0.0000000010 seconds and about 0.000000010 seconds.
In accordance with yet a further embodiment, the pulse duration is
between about 0.00000000010 seconds and about 0.0000000010 seconds.
In accordance with another embodiment, a waveform is provided with
a combination of pulses selected from the durations set forth
above. Use of pulses of such short duration are believed to result
in decreased streamer (microdischarge) formation on the basis that
the pulse is too short for the plasma to organize itself in a
manner in which it can form a streamer (microdischarge). It is also
believed that use of such pulsing can result in a large amount of
reactive ion species for treating the skin. Moreover, it is
possible to not use a dielectric material between the electrode and
skin when using pulses of such short duration, since the power
applied to the area being treated is controlled by microprocessor;
although a dielectric layer can be included for safety reasons. As
such, this technique of using pulses of such short duration differs
from dielectric barrier discharge plasmas, which require a
dielectric layer to operate. Moreover, using such short pulses also
results in a more uniform plasma.
[0056] In accordance with further aspects, the disclosure provides
systems and methods for generating surface plasmas and techniques
for applying surface plasmas to a patient's skin.
[0057] For purposes of illustration, and not limitation, a
treatment device is provided in FIG. 7. The treatment device
includes a handle (not shown) and a treatment electrode including a
conductor 1 surrounded at least in part by an insulating material 2
defining an outer surface that may be placed in direct contact with
a patient's skin 20. The treatment device is used in this
embodiment by applying a voltage to the conductor 1 such that a
surface plasma is generated along the surface of the insulating
material and between the surface of the insulating material 2 and
patient's skin in areas where they are not in direct physical
contact, and a gap is defined between the skin and the insulating
material. The behavior of surface plasma is affected by a variety
of variables, including the type and overall shape of insulating
material 2 used, as well as the characteristics of surface of the
insulating material 2.
[0058] If desired, the insulating material can be rigid or
flexible. If flexible, insulating material 2 can be, for example, a
silicone compound, synthetic rubber, polyurethane, or polyethylene.
These can be applied to the conductor via lamination or the
conductor can be plated or otherwise sprayed onto the base
insulating material. If rigid, insulating material can be a
moldable material, such as PTFE, PVDF, PC, PP and the like, and can
be molded such as by injection molding. As will be appreciated, the
texturing of the surface will have a surface finish that can be a
result of the molding process or other processing. Thus, in one
embodiment, such as where insulating material is injection molded,
a mold having a surface finish in accordance with SPI/SPE A1, A2,
A3, B1, B2, B3, C1, C2, C3, D1, D2 or D3 can be used. Moreover, if
desired, the mold can have a first, rougher, surface finish in one
region, and a second, smoother surface finish in another
region.
[0059] Regardless as to how it is formed, the resulting surface of
material 2 facing and/or contacting the skin of the patient/user
can be provided with a surface having a region with a mean surface
roughness Ra between about 0.01-2000 microinches, 0.1-1000
microinches, 1-100 microinches, 5-50 microinches, 20-40
microinches, 100-200 microinches, 75-125 microinches, 1-4
microinches, 4-8 microinches, 8-12 microinches, 12-20 microinches,
20-30 microinches, 30-40 microinches, 40-50 microinches, 50-60
microinches, 70-80 microinches, 80-90 microinches, 90-100
microinches, or the like.
[0060] The surface of insulating material 2 that faces and/or
contacts a user's/patient's skin can be provided with one or more
bumps, ridges or undulations 78 that are distinct and on a
generally larger scale than the surface finish, having an average
height of about 0.01 mm-5 mm, 0.1-0.5 mm, 0.5-1.0 mm, 1.0-1.5 mm,
1.5-2.0 mm, 2.0-2.5 mm, 2.5-3.0 mm, 3.0-3.5 mm, 3.5-4.0 mm, 4.0-4.5
mm, or 4.5-5.0 mm, among others. Distances between adjacent bumps,
ridges or undulations for the foregoing examples can be between
0.01 mm-5 mm, 0.1-0.5 mm, 0.5-1.0 mm, 1.0-1.5 mm, 1.5-2.0 mm,
2.0-2.5 mm, 2.5-3.0 mm, 3.0-3.5 mm, 3.5-4.0 mm, 4.0-4.5 mm, or
4.5-5.0 mm, among others.
[0061] The material of the dielectric can also be provided with
pores. These pores can serve as microcavities for a plasma
microdischarge. These pores may be connected to one another or be
separate and distinct. Such pores could be regular, as in a
capillary array, or irregular in distribution. The shape of the
pores may be spherical, cylindrical, or other. The pores have a
characteristic dimension of 0.001 to 0.100 mm, 0.100 to 0.5 mm, 0.5
to 1.0 mm, 1.0-1.5 mm, 1.5-2.0 mm, 2.0-2.5 mm, 2.5-3.0 mm, 3.0-3.5
mm, 3.5-4.0 mm, 4.0-4.5 mm, or 4.5-5.0 mm, among others.
[0062] If desired, insulating material can be a semiconductor
material. Concentration of charge carriers (consisting of valence
and conduction electrons) in semiconductors can be modulated in a
variety of ways including changes in temperature, incident light
and electric field inside the material. The semiconducting material
properties at different locations can also be controlled through
incorporation of impurities that create either excess of conduction
or excess of valence electrons. Modulating charge carrier density
within the semiconducting material permits to exercise control over
current being delivered into the plasma. Charge carrier density
within the semiconductor may also change its electron emission
capabilities and the manner in which insulating material acts as an
electron emitter. Furthermore, charge carrier density within the
semiconducting material may result in changes of surface breakdown
enabling control over surface plasma discharge on semiconductor
surface.
[0063] It will be further appreciated that insulating material 2
can have a variety of different dielectric breakdown strengths,
such as rubber (450-700 V/mil), Teflon (1500 V/mil), glass
(2000-3000 V/mil), alumina (300-500 V/mil), polyimide (12000-18000
V/mil), PVDF (1700 V/mil), PVC, polyurethane, UHMW polyethylene,
etc. By comparison, air has a dielectric breakdown strength of
approximately 20 V/mil. The choice of the dielectric thickness is
determined by the magnitude of the applied voltage, the gap between
the dielectric and the skin (or the profile of the dielectric, in
the case of a surface discharge), and the local surface profile of
the skin (which includes skin surface roughness and topographical
variations due to swelling, scarring, or gross curvature of the
body). In such cases, a typical thickness of approximately 0.010 to
4 mm for the dielectric layer is suitable to account for the
variations in the applied voltage, electrode-skin separation, skin
surface profile, etc. Generally, the smaller the gap, the smaller
the dielectric thickness that is required.
[0064] The minimum gap between the dielectric and the skin can be
determined according to the Paschen curve, which shows the
relationship between the breakdown voltage of a gas as a function
of its pressure times the characteristic distance. In some
embodiments, the characteristic distance is the air gap between the
dielectric and the skin. For atmospheric pressures, the Paschen
curve provides that minimum voltages of approximately 400 to 6000
volts are useful to generate a breakdown for gaps of approximately
0.01 to 1 mm, respectively. In order to form a plasma over a large
area as opposed to a single microdischarge, significantly higher
voltages are useful for generating plasma while overcoming the
variations induced by the skin surface roughness, skin impedance
variations, and local topographical variation of the skin. Such
voltages range, for example, from about 500 to about 1000 volts,
about 1000-about 10000 volts, and about 10000-about 50000
volts.
[0065] The size of the gap between the dielectric material and the
skin can also conveniently be on the same order as the height of
many lesions, plaques, pustules, etc. that are typically found in
skin diseases such as acne, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, etc. In
such cases, a surface discharge can be expected to form
preferentially at the site of the lesion or plaque if it is in
contact with the dielectric layer. If the discharge is not in
contact, the gap will still be reduced and the plasma (a dielectric
barrier discharge) can also be expected to form preferentially at
the site of the lesion or plaque.
[0066] In further accordance with the disclosure, additional
features are provided to facilitate the use of plasma treatment
devices by lightly trained or untrained operators. In order to
maintain the same intensity of the dose of the plasma to the skin,
it is useful to apply the plasma treatment electrode in close
proximity to the skin (for cases where the curved electrode is not
used) in a reliable and repeatable fashion. Alternatively, a spacer
made from a non-conductive material can be used to set the distance
between the plasma treatment electrode and the skin, as shown in
FIG. 9, for example. The spacer/spacing means can be provided
around the periphery of the treatment electrode, in which case it
can also surround or encapsulate the local gas. By surrounding the
local gas, the structure can facilitate concentration of the heat
and reactive species in the desired treatment area. Such a border
can also incorporate an ozone-absorbing material, such as carbon
black, to absorb the ozone that is commonly generated by the
dielectric barrier discharge. In some embodiments, a line, group of
lines, a polygon or polygons, a post or a plurality of posts, such
as in the form of an array, or other geometries at or around the
central portion of the treatment area can be included in the
electrode insulating material to prevent the skin from rising up
inside the region defined by the spacer, which would adversely
affect the maintenance of a constant gap between the treatment
electrode and the body. Alternately, the spacer itself can be
mounted on a spring or other resilient member that provides a
defined preload contact force between the plasma treatment
electrode and the skin. When combined with an overload protection
interlock (such as a contact or proximity switch or sensor) to
prevent operation if the spring is fully compressed, this mechanism
can be used to prevent the skin from coming too close to the plasma
treatment electrode.
[0067] In another embodiment, when microdischarges are employed to
generate the plasma in close proximity to the skin, the size of the
microcavities is preferably small enough such that the spacing
between the skin and the plasma treatment electrodes can be
controlled without additional spacing means, springs, or other
mechanisms, as desired.
[0068] In accordance with some embodiments, the electrical output
is delivered by a power supply and affects the nature of the plasma
that is emitted. Thermal and non-thermal plasmas may be used. If
desired, the power supply can be connected to a control system that
provides control means (e.g., a controller) that controls turning
the device on an off, and may be used to control the dose (or
intensity) of the plasma, which can in turn be controlled by
adjusting the gas flow rate, applied voltage and hence applied
current, and the like. In order to maintain user safety, a variety
of controls are preferably employed. At the point of application to
the skin, a temperature sensor (thermocouple or infrared sensor,
for example) is employed to ensure that the gas temperature does
not exceed the threshold for causing pain and erythema. Also, the
electrode can contain a fuse or fast circuit breaker to ensure that
the current does not increase dramatically as a result of electrode
damage, which can cause significant pain to the patient. This fuse
or circuit breaker can also be mounted within the power supply.
[0069] If desired, the controller can control a second set of
conductors proximate the plasma emitters to provide a magnetic
field proximate the plasma to help influence the direction of flow
of the plasma as well as its density, particularly the density of
free electrons within a given volume containing the skin to be
treated. Electromagnets and/or permanent magnets can be used, for
example, to apply a dipole magnetic field across the skin, thus
providing magnetic field lines that are substantially oblique to
the nail, thus influencing the motion of reactive species across
the skin being treated.
[0070] The electrodes that are used to generate the plasma are
optionally configured to deliver the electrical energy
simultaneously or sequentially. In this manner, the entire plasma
emitter may be excited at one time or sequentially in lines, or
sub-regions may be excited sequentially. The control system further
provides the means (software or hard-wired) to excite the
electrodes in the desired sequence. For sequential excitation, the
electrodes or sets of electrodes are individually addressable by
the control system. For sequential excitation, the control system
provides the means to vary the intensity and duration of the
exposure to the plasma. This variation is applied spatially,
allowing the user to deliver different plasma exposure doses to
different regions of the target skin area.
[0071] In another embodiment, a layer containing an exposure
indicator is applied to the plasma treatment electrode. By using
the exposure indicator, the user will obtain direct feedback about
the amount and level of exposure applied to the body. The exposure
indicator can contain one or more compounds that react to the
exposure from plasma such that the exposure can be detected and/or
metered upon removal from the skin. The indicator may change color
or otherwise provide a visual indication of exposure. This change
may occur immediately or after exposure to a developer or other
chemical. An example of an exposure indicator is a photosensitive
material that responds to the light emitted by the plasma. Another
example of an exposure indicator is a material that changes color
upon exposure to different pH levels or other chemical species,
such as litmus paper. A combination of different materials may be
employed to indicate different exposure levels. Such materials can
be provided in sheet form, and can be replaced with each subsequent
use of the treatment device if the device is otherwise intended to
or capable of being reusable.
[0072] In some alternative embodiments, the exposure level is
monitored automatically using optical sensors, electronic sensors,
or a combination thereof. The optical sensors, for example, can
detect visible, ultraviolet, or infrared emissions from the plasma.
The electrical sensors can detect current flow or electrical field
variation and the like as generated by the plasma emission. The
information from these sensors can then be delivered to the power
supply and control system to enable closed loop control of the
exposure dose and intensity. Such closed loop control may be
desirable to account for patient-specific anatomical or disease
variations that affect the plasma intensity, for example. The gas
delivery from the gas supply can be controlled by a valve or set of
valves. In one embodiment, the operator opens the valve to provide
continuous gas flow. In an alternate embodiment, the valve or
series of valves is electrically controlled via the control
system.
[0073] In some embodiments, there is no gas container structure.
The electrodes are then used to excite the surrounding ambient air
to generate the plasma. When the emitter is applied to the skin, a
spacer can be used to ensure that sufficient air is available to
generate the plasma that is to be directed at the skin. The spacer
can define a plurality of cavities, microcavities, microchannels,
or other depressions therein defining a negative skewness or
pattern. Alternatively, the spacer can have positive skewness or a
positive pattern, such as by defining posts, pillars, raised lines,
or other structures thereon that extend above the main surface of
the device. The spacing means also provides isolation of the
electrodes from the skin.
[0074] In another alternate embodiment, the power supply and
control system are connected to the electrode by a high-voltage
cable. This cable preferably has sufficient length to enable
targeting any single portion of the body or multiple areas of the
body. The electrode dimensions and weight are set so to enable
comfortable hand gripping while a plastic or other insulating
material shields the operator from any high-voltage exposure.
Alternately, the electrode may be curved (i.e. to match or nearly
match the curvature of the desired treatment area--as in knee pads,
face masks, elbow pads, etc.) and/or flexible (as shown in FIG. 9).
A treatment electrode can have a variety of shapes, including
squares, circles, rectangles, or even face masks that enable it to
conform to the desired treatment area while maintaining the desired
gap or surface discharge configuration as appropriate. The shape
may be standardized for all patients or custom-made based on
casting, molding, optical scanning or other measurement methods to
create an electrode that more precisely conforms to the anatomy of
the specific patient to be treated. Alternately, the electrode,
power supply and control system are integrated into a single
handheld unit. This unit optionally contains batteries and/or a
cable port to connect to a wall outlet.
[0075] In order to treat the desired skin area with the plasma the
following exemplary method can be used:
[0076] 1. Apply the plasma treatment electrode (having a
spacer/spacing means, if the electrode is flat or no spacing means
if the electrode is curved) to the target area of the skin such
that the dielectric-covered conductor surface(s) are aimed towards
the desired treatment area. Depending on the duration of treatment,
the plasma treatment electrode(s) may be held in place via hand
pressure, gravity, or a securing means, such as an adhesive, hook
and loop fastener (e.g., from Velcro, Inc.), latch, springs, or
elastic straps.
[0077] 2. Once the plasma emitter is in place, the user activates
the device using a control means/controller. Once activated, the
emitter delivers plasma to the target skin area. In some cases, the
electrode is of sufficient size to treat the target skin area all
at one time. If the electrode is smaller than the treatment area,
then the user must step-and-repeat or scan the electrode over the
entire treatment area.
[0078] 3. Upon completion of the treatment, the user deactivates
the device using a control means/controller. The control means
alternatively can provide an automatic shutoff once the desired
dose has been delivered.
[0079] 4. The user then removes the plasma emitter from the target
treatment area.
[0080] In accordance with an alternate method to treat the target
skin with plasma, sensitizing and/or blocking materials can be used
to provide differential dosing for different sections of the skin.
Such sensitizing materials can include water-based creams,
ointments, lotions, sprays, gels, or other fluids. They can also
include hydrophilic materials, such as glycerin, which can be used
to attract water and water-based materials. These fluids are
preferably applied topically. The blocking materials can include
anhydrous (such as oil-based) creams, ointments, gels, or other
fluids. They can also include hydrophobic materials which are used
to repel water and water-based materials. An exemplary illustrative
method can have the following steps:
[0081] 1. Apply the plasma sensitizing and/or blocking materials to
the desired treatment region (or protection region) of the skin. In
the case of sensitizing materials, it may be helpful to wait for a
certain period of time (an incubation period) for the sensitizing
materials to be absorbed by the target regions of the skin.
[0082] 2. Apply the plasma treatment electrode to the target area
of the skin such that the emission surface is aimed towards the
desired treatment area. Depending on the duration of treatment, the
plasma treatment electrode may be held in place via hand pressure,
gravity, or a securing means, such as an adhesive, Velcro, latches,
springs, or elastic straps.
[0083] 3. Once the plasma treatment electrode is in place, the user
activates the device using a control means. Once activated, the
emitter delivers plasma to the target skin area.
[0084] 4. Upon completion of the treatment, the user deactivates
the device using a control means. The control means alternatively
provides an automatic shutoff once the desired dose has been
delivered.
[0085] 5. The user then removes the plasma treatment electrode from
the target treatment area.
[0086] In still another embodiment, heat, ultraviolet light,
visible light, and/or infrared radiation can be applied in concert
with or in alternating fashion with the plasma in order to further
accelerate the killing of pathogens, alleviation of inflammation,
and/or activation of other cellular processes and chemistry. In
another embodiment, topical and/or systemic drugs can be used in
synergistic combination with the plasma treatment in order to
further increase the effectiveness and speed of killing and/or
other reactions. In another embodiment, the electrode itself is
heated and thereby provide conductive heating of the skin, which
can combine with the non-thermal plasma to enhance the
effectiveness and speed of killing and/or other reactions.
[0087] If thermal plasma or heat enhancements such as infrared
radiation are employed, it may be desirable to cool the skin
surrounding the skin for greater patient comfort. The skin may be
cooled by flowing or spraying water or cryogen at it.
Alternatively, when the electrode is in contact with the skin, it
can be cooled and thereby provide conductive cooling to the local
skin region. In another embodiment, after-care creams, gels, or
other materials may be applied to the treated skin to help
alleviate or repair pain, irritation, erythema, or other unwanted
effects, such as cellular or DNA damage. For example, anti-oxidants
may be used to help reduce post-treatment levels of reactive oxygen
species and promote DNA repair.
[0088] In accordance with a further aspect, a plasma sensitizer can
also be used. In one aspect, the sensitizer can act as a conductive
fluid to direct the plasma in a desired direction, such as toward
the skin. In another aspect, the sensitizer can additionally or
alternatively provide chemicals that react with the plasma, thereby
enabling other reactions with the skin to occur. This can result in
faster reactions at the skin. Suitable materials to be used as
sensitizers can include, for example, water, saline, deionized
water, or any fluid containing organic compounds, as well as
materials including antioxidants. The plasma sensitizing fluid can
also be delivered to the skin as part of the device construction.
The device can contain a spray, sponge or vapor (aerosolized fluid)
jet that has the sensitizing fluid and controllably releases said
fluid as desired by the user or automatically upon contact by the
electrode to the skin. Finally, a moistened fabric may be placed
between the electrode and the skin. In this case, the discharge
will occur within the cloth and excessive streamer formation will
also be avoided.
[0089] An exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a flexible
plasma emitter in accordance with the disclosure is presented in
FIG. 10 and represented by reference numeral 100. The central
conductor 140 of the flexible plasma emitter 100, depicted as a
sheet in FIG. 10, can be made from a variety of solid sheet
materials, including copper, aluminum, tin, silver, steel, among
others. The plasma emitter 100 also includes a sensor stud 120,
which may be made from a non-conductive material, and can include a
conductive coating and a conductive adhesive for attachment to the
central conductor 140. The central conductor is attached on either
side to layers of dielectric material 120, 150 as described herein
(e.g., polysiloxane having a shore A hardness of about 30-90) or
other material. The attachment between components 130, 140, 150 may
be by way of adhesive, or the like. A further layer of dielectric
material 160 is also provided having one or more cut-outs 180.
Layer 160 is attached to layer 150 by any desired means, or may be
integral with layer 150, as desired. The cut-outs cooperate with
layer 150 to form recesses or chambers in which plasma can form
when placed against a patient's skin. If desired, the side of layer
160 not in contact with layer 150 that is skin-facing during use
may be provided with a layer of skin-friendly adhesive and a
removable backing layer 170 (e.g., of PET, paper or other material)
to provide adhesion to a patient's skin. If desired, layer 150 can
be provided with one or more protrusions (not shown) in order to
help ensure spacing between the patient's skin and the remainder of
layer 150.
[0090] While depicted as a sheet, the central conductor 140 could
similarly be supplied as a mesh or other interrupted surface to
help control or otherwise modify the electrical field over the
device while in use. As such, the central conductor 140 may also
have one or more holes, slots, etchings, openings, or pores in it.
When combined with the use, for example, of transparent dielectric
materials, such openings can also serve as an indicator that the
plasma has been generated within the cavity of the patch because
light generated by the plasma will be transmitted through the
opening. Such an indicator may also be configured to provide other
information, such as product branding or other messages.
Alternatively, a transparent conductor, such as indium tin oxide
(ITO) or conductive mesh may be employed for indication of plasma
emission by transmission of light.
[0091] Alternately, the central conductor may be made from a
conductive ink or powder, which may be printed, fused, or otherwise
deposited onto one of the dielectric layers. The use of conductive
inks may provide advantages in manufacturing through ease of
automation, alignment, cost reduction, etc.
[0092] By way of further example, instead of a solid central
conductor, a specific shape or array of shapes may be provided
within the flexible plasma emitter. Such shape(s) can thus also
define the spatial location of the plasma treatment to the body
once applied. Such shapes may be standardized or custom-defined via
die-cutting, laser cutting, deposition, etching, and the like. For
example, it may be desirable to provide directed treatment to
psoriasis plaques or other skin lesions while avoiding treatment of
the surrounding, healthy skin.
[0093] In some embodiments, it is desirable to provide a treatment
patch that is flexible enough to conform to the complex curvatures
of the body, such as the face, while preventing exposure to
non-targeted regions (such as the eyes or mouth). Normally, when a
patch is made flat, it will be difficult to enable it to bend in 2
directions simultaneously without buckling. Furthermore, the
thicker the patch, the more that such bending becomes difficult. To
meet these needs and to overcome the problem of buckling, a patch
can have simple cutouts in the desired locations, such as the eyes
and mouth, as well as slits in order to allow a nominally flat
patch to flex in 2 directions simultaneously. As a further
enhancement, the dielectric layers of the patch can be sandwiched
together through lamination around the edges. This laminated bag
structure is then filled with a viscous liquid conductive gel. By
flowing around the different regions of the patch, they help the
patch maintain contact with the skin over the entire area without
buckling. The movement of the gel to different regions of the patch
produces variations in the local stiffness of the patch, which
enables variable local deformations. These variable local
deformations result in the patch having more consistent contact
with the body over the entire area. If desired, one or more
protrusions can be provided on the mask in order to help facilitate
establishment of plasmas in preselected areas.
[0094] For purposes of illustration, and not limitation, as
embodied herein and as depicted in FIG. 11, an exemplary face mask
200 containing conductive fluid within a reservoir is provided. As
illustrated, face mask 200 includes a peripheral portion 210 that
encompasses the forehead and surrounds an inner region 220 that
rests around openings 250 defined for a patient's eyes. The mask
200 includes a further medial lateral portion 230 that extends from
one side of the mask 200 across to the other side of the mask 200,
and generally coincides with the region of the face between a
patient's upper lip and nose. The mask further includes a lower
peripheral edge parallel to and partially spaced from the medial
lateral portion by an opening 250 for a patient's mouth. A further
opening 250 for a patient's nose can also be provided between the
middle lower portion of the inner region and the middle upper
portion of the medial lateral portion 230 of the mask 200. If
desired, one or more protrusions or standoffs 270 can be provided
on the mask to rest against the patient's skin. The protrusions can
be formed by dimpling the sheet of the mask that faces the
patient's skin, creating wells on the inside surface of the mask
for receiving conductive fluid, thereby providing a plurality of
electrodes extending from a reservoir of conductive fluid defined
by two sandwiched sheets of material, such as plastic material. One
sheet of the plastic material can form the outer surface of the
mask and reservoir, while the inner surface that may be dimpled can
form the inner surface of the mask and reservoir.
[0095] It can be desirable in some instances to provide a custom
treatment patch or mask that is designed to work for a specific
body part of a specific patient. Such a patch or mask may have a
specific topography to enable better conformance to the patient's
body. In addition or alternatively, the patch or mask may have
pre-defined treatment areas within it to provide directed treatment
to diseased skin while preserving healthy skin. One embodiment of
making a suitable treatment patch can include the following
steps:
[0096] 1. Creating a mold of the treatment area of the patient
using liquid silicone or other body molding compound by covering
the patient's skin or a layer of material (e.g., sheet material
and/or release agent) in contact with the patient's skin with the
silicone material or molding compound.
[0097] 2. Forming a first layer of dielectric material from the
silicone material or molding compound or by making a mold from a
cast of the treatment area.
[0098] 3. Adding a conductive layer to the first layer in manners
as described herein (e.g., by applying conductive ink, or a foil
metal layer, conductive gel layer, etc.) and adding a further
dielectric layer to the conductive layer to form a sandwich of the
dielectric layers and conductive layer.
[0099] 4. Attach, emboss or remove material from the sandwich to
define a gap between the flexible plasma emitter and the patient's
treatment area. Such a gap can range, for example, from 0.2 to 4
millimeters. This can be done by adding standoffs to the underside
of the first layer that is to contact the treatment area, or by
excavating or etching pores or other openings into the underside of
the first dielectric layer.
[0100] 5. Attaching a cable connector and fastener, if desired, to
the custom flexible plasma emitter to attach it to the treatment
area.
[0101] Another exemplary method of generating a custom treatment
patch can include:
[0102] 1. Image and digitize the topography of the treatment area
of the patient and/or the targeted skin for treatment (e.g.,
diseased vs. healthy).
[0103] 2. Generate a mold for the flexible plasma emitter using the
digital scan of the patient treatment area.
[0104] 3. Using the mold, generate the base
dielectric--conductor--dielectric sandwich that comprises the
flexible plasma emitter. This can include deposition of raw
materials, curing, stretching, and/or sealing, etc. In this
embodiment, the conductor shape can be defined digitally and
applied to one of the dielectric layers (through deposition of
conductive ink, for example).
[0105] 4. Attach, emboss or remove material from the sandwich to
define a gap between the flexible plasma emitter and the patient's
treatment area. Such a gap can range, for example, from about 0.2
to 4 millimeters.
[0106] 5. Attach cable connector and body fastener, if desired, to
the custom flexible plasma emitter.
[0107] In order to deliver higher power levels to the body, it is
desirable to provide a grounding (dispersive) pad proximately
located to the flexible plasma emitter. Such pads are commonly used
in conjunction with electrosurgical devices. As the current
transmission increases, there is a higher risk of burning the skin.
The risk of creating skin burns depends on the amount of current
divided by the area over which it is distributed, which is also
known as the current density. Nominally, the current density at the
ground pad is defined by the area of the pad. However, there are
some additional considerations:
[0108] 1. The entire ground pad is preferably securely attached to
the body of the patient. A partial attachment or removal of the
ground pad can cause the current density to increase.
[0109] 2. The ground pad preferably has sufficiently low resistance
to avoid generation of heat within the pad. Such a resistance can
range, for example, from about 0.1 to about 5000 ohms.
[0110] 3. The ground pad preferably radiates any heat generated
within the pad and/or can provide active cooling to minimize the
risk of burning.
[0111] In order to ensure that the ground pad is attached securely
to the patient, prior to treatment, remote monitoring of the pad
attachment can be employed as follows. First, two or more pads or
pad sections can be attached to the body in close proximity to one
another. These pads can have matching connectors and a cable or
cables that run back to the power supply and control system. Prior
to and during treatment, the power supply and control system can
send a small amount of current via one of the conductive pathways
to one of the ground pads. It then measures the return current that
is conducted by the second ground pad to determine the overall
impedance of the system. If the measured impedance deviates from
the nominal value, then the power supply and control system
prevents the treatment from starting and/or interrupts the
treatment. An indicator means (visual, audible, etc.) is provided
on the power supply and control system to inform the operator that
the grounding pad(s) are not fully attached to the body.
[0112] Optionally, the grounding pad(s) may be integrated with the
plasma emitter. Such a construction may provide advantages in ease
of application to the body, convenience, and/or lower cost. The
grounding pad can be provided within the plasma emitter, for
example, by providing a grounding conductor that is mounted around
the periphery or other non-treatment areas of the plasma emitter.
This grounding conductor is optionally mounted to the skin via a
conductive skin adhesive or gel, which can also help provide the
required spacing means for the plasma emitter. This conductor can
be connected to the power supply through a separate connector. As
in the previous discussion, it is possible to monitor the
connection (and thereby the overall current density) of the patch
by sending a small current to the grounding pad(s) and measuring
the return current to determine the overall impedance.
[0113] The flexible plasma emitter can be connected to the power
supply by a variety of techniques. For example, short wires having
an external connector may be laminated, glued, soldered, or crimped
onto the conductive layer of the flexible plasma emitter.
Alternatively, a variety of connectors may be mounted (via
soldering, lamination, or gluing) on the conductor of the flexible
plasma emitter. These can include, for example, snap connectors,
surface mount connectors, pin holes, crimp or clamps connectors,
among others. Finally, the conductor of the flexible plasma emitter
can be formed into one half of a connector, such as a conductive
tab or pin. The flexible plasma emitter can be attached to the
treatment area through a variety of fasteners/attachment
techniques, including hook and loop fastener, straps, and skin
adhesives. The skin adhesives may be single-use or multi-use, such
as in the case of hydrogels.
[0114] In further accordance with the disclosure, FIG. 12 shows a
cross-sectional view of a further exemplary flexible plasma
emitter. An external gas supply 121 provides gas to a container 122
that has a plenum 123 to provide gas to each of the plasma emission
locations, such as in 124. The emission locations can defined by a
spacer, 125, which can encapsulate the electrodes 126, that are
used to excite the gas to generate the plasma.
[0115] FIG. 13 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary
flexible plasma emitter in accordance with the disclosure that uses
ambient air, as in the embodiment of FIG. 12, to provide the gas
for the plasma. As with the embodiment of FIG. 12, the electrodes
132 are encapsulated in an insulating layer 133 to provide a gap
131 within which a treatment plasma can be generated.
[0116] FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary
flexible plasma emitter that can be inflated with a fluid (e.g. for
use inside a body cavity). The emitter can include electrodes 141
encapsulated in an insulation layer 142 that also constitutes a
plurality of spacers defining gaps therebetween for the formation
of plasma on the surface of the inflatable device, and an interior
reservoir or inflation area 143, which is connected to a conduit or
tube 144. As illustrated, the tube extends outside of the treatment
area (outside the body) to an external gas or liquid supply (not
shown). Plasma can be generated on the outer surface of the device
in voids created between the spacers. Alternatively, openings can
be provided in the reservoir, and a working gas (e.g., carbon
dioxide or other suitable gas) can be directed through the openings
to the outer surface of the device to facilitate plasma
generation.
[0117] FIG. 15 is a schematic view of the overall system of an
exemplary flexible plasma emitter, including the emitter, which has
a spacer 151, a series or plurality of electrodes 152, an optional
gas port 153 and gas plenum 154. The gas plenum is connected to a
gas supply 155. The electrodes are illustrated as being connected
to a power supply and control system 156.
[0118] FIG. 16 illustrates a further exemplary method of treatment
in which the flexible plasma emitter 161 is applied topically to a
region of the body 162.
[0119] In the aforementioned embodiments, the flexible plasma
treatment device can include a gas container configured into a
flexible, plasma emitter that is applied to the body. The plasma
can be a corona, dielectric barrier discharge, inductively coupled
plasma, microwave induced plasma, or capacitively coupled radio
frequency induced plasma. Electrodes can be placed near the gas
container in order to generate the plasma. These electrodes can be
connected to a power supply having the necessary electrical output
characteristics to generate the desired plasma. The plasma can then
be emitted via an array of holes in the container. These holes can
be configured to direct plasma toward the body to provide tissue
treatment. If desired, a new supply of gas can be provided by a
conduit that connects the gas container to an external gas supply.
This gas supply can also be used to assist the delivery of the
plasma to the desired area of the body.
[0120] The electrical output delivered by the power supply can
affects the nature of the plasma that is emitted. Thermal and
non-thermal plasmas can both be used. Further, the power supply can
be connected to a control system that provides a controller,
including activation, dose (or intensity), time of exposure, and
de-activation as discussed elsewhere herein. The electrodes that
are used to generate the plasma can be configured to deliver the
electrical energy simultaneously or sequentially. In this manner,
the entire flexible emitter may be excited at one time or
sequential lines, or sub-regions may be excited sequentially. The
control system can provide the requisite signals (via software or
hard-wired) to excite the electrodes in the desired sequence. For
sequential excitation, the electrodes or sets of electrodes can be
individually addressable by the control system. For sequential
excitation, the control system provides the means to vary the
intensity and duration of the exposure to the plasma. This
variation can be applied spatially, allowing the user to deliver
different plasma exposure doses to different regions of the target
tissue. This feature is desirable for the preservation of healthy
cells that may be adjacent to targeted cells, such as tumors or
pathogens.
[0121] The gas delivery from the gas supply can be controlled by a
valve or set of valves. In one embodiment, the operator can open a
valve to provide continuous gas flow. In an alternate embodiment,
the valve or series of valves can be electrically controlled via
the control system.
[0122] In an alternate embodiment of the invention, there is no gas
container structure. The electrodes can thus be used to excite the
surrounding ambient air to generate the plasma, similar to other
embodiments discussed herein. When the flexible emitter is applied
to the body, a spacer can be used to ensure that sufficient air is
available to generate the plasma that is to be directed at the
body. The spacer can be a number of microcavities, microchannels,
or other depressions having negative skewness as discussed
elsewhere herein. Alternatively, the spacing or standoff means can
have positive skewness, such as posts, pillars, raised lines, or
other structures that extend above the main surface of the device
as discussed elsewhere herein. The spacers can also provide
isolation of the electrodes from the body. Finally, the top or back
of the device (the side that does not contact the body) can have an
insulating/isolating layer that encapsulates the electrodes. That
is, the electrodes are preferably embedded within dielectric or
insulating material.
[0123] In a further embodiment of the disclosure, the tissue
treatment apparatus can be thin such that it can be inflated into a
cylindrical, spherical or other round shape (e.g., FIG. 14). This
shape can be placed inside a body cavity such as the brain,
bladder, esophagus, lung, gut or other location in order to deliver
the plasma treatment to the interior of the body cavity. An
advantage of this structure is that the plasma may be delivered
rapidly to the entire cavity while maintaining a uniform or
controlled dose. Another advantage of this structure is that it may
be used to provide mechanical support to the surrounding tissue to
prevent collapse during treatment.
[0124] In order to treat the desired tissue with the plasma the
following method can be used in some implementations:
[0125] 1. The flexible plasma emitter can be applied to the target
area of the body such that the emission surface is aimed towards
the desired treatment area. Depending on the duration of treatment,
the flexible plasma emitter may be held in place via hand pressure,
gravity, or a securing means, such as an adhesive, hook and loop
fasteners, or elastic straps. If the flexible emitter is placed
inside the body, the flexible structure can be inflated into a
balloon shape. This balloon shape can conform to the target body
cavity. The device can be inflated by gas or liquid conductor
(e.g., conducting gel), as desired. For example, a conducting gel
can be used to inflate a dielectric sheath having a plurality of
protrusions formed into its exterior. The protrusions can be solid,
and/or can form pockets on the inside of the inflatable portion so
as to accommodate conductive fluid.
[0126] 2. Once the flexible plasma emitter is in place, the user
can activate the device using an actuator connected to a
controller. Once activated, the emitter can deliver plasma to the
target tissue/treatment area.
[0127] 3. Upon completion of the treatment, the user can
deactivates the device using the actuator/controller. The
controller can alternatively provide an automatic shutoff once the
desired dose has been delivered.
[0128] 4. The user can then remove the flexible plasma emitter from
the target treatment area. If necessary or desired, the user can
first deflate the flexible plasma emitter prior to removal from the
body.
[0129] In alternative method to treat the target tissue with
plasma, sensitizing and/or blocking materials can be used to
provide differential dosing between healthy cells and target cells
or pathogens. Such sensitizing materials can include, for example,
water-based creams, ointments, lotions, sprays, gels, or other
fluids. They can also include hydrophilic materials, such as
glycerin, which can be used to attract water and water-based
materials. These fluids can be applied topically or injected
locally. The blocking materials can include, for example, anhydrous
(such as oil-based) creams, ointments, gels, or other fluids. They
can also include hydrophobic materials which are used to repel
water and water-based materials. Such implementations can include
the following steps:
[0130] 1. Apply the plasma sensitizing and/or blocking materials to
the desired treatment region (or protection region) of the body. In
the case of sensitizing materials, it may be advantageous to wait
for a certain period of time (an incubation period) for the
sensitizing materials to be absorbed by the target regions of the
body.
[0131] 2. Apply the flexible plasma emitter to the target area of
the body such that the emission surface is aimed towards the
desired treatment area. Depending on the duration of treatment, the
flexible plasma emitter may be held in place via hand pressure,
gravity, or a fastener, such as an adhesive, hook and loop
fasteners, or elastic straps. If the flexible emitter is placed
inside the body, it may be advantageous or necessary to inflate the
flexible structure into a balloon shape. This balloon shape can
conform to the target body cavity.
[0132] 3. Once the flexible plasma emitter is in place, the user or
other operator can activate the device using an
actuator/controller. Once activated, the emitter can deliver plasma
to the target tissue.
[0133] 4. Upon completion of the treatment, the user can deactivate
the device using the actuator/controller. The controller
alternatively can provide an automatic shutoff once the desired
dose has been delivered.
[0134] 5. The user can then remove the flexible plasma emitter from
the target treatment area. If necessary or desired, the user can
first deflate the flexible plasma emitter prior to removal from the
body.
[0135] Thus, it will be appreciated that, in some implementations,
a tissue treatment apparatus is provided that includes a gas
container having gas exit holes, electrodes in proximity to the gas
container, and a power supply connected to said electrodes and
providing electrical output characteristics to generate a plasma
within the gas container and/or in close proximity to the
container. The gas container can be connected to an external gas
supply. The plasma can be a corona, dielectric barrier discharge,
inductively coupled plasma, microwave induced plasma, or
capacitively coupled radio frequency induced plasma, as desired.
The power supply can deliver pulses of current having a voltage of
10 volts to 60 kV where each pulse has a duration ranging from 1
nanosecond to 100 milliseconds. The gas container can be a flexible
polymer or a flexible metallic film having one or more layers, as
desired. If desired, the gas container and the entire apparatus can
be inflatable. The electrodes can be a set of pairs that have been
placed on opposite sides of each gas exit hole. The gas supply can
be, for example, nitrogen, helium, oxygen, air, xenon, neon,
krypton, or a combination thereof. In further implementations, a
tissue treatment apparatus is provided that includes a set of
electrodes, an isolation layer that encapsulates the electrodes and
a spacer that provides physical separation between the isolation
layer and a treatment region of the body. The entire apparatus can
be inflatable. The spacing means can be one or more microcavities,
microchannels, depressions, posts, pillars, raised structures, or
other surface variation.
[0136] In further implementations, a tissue treatment method is
provided that can include applying a flexible plasma emitter to the
desired treatment region of the body such that the emission is
aimed towards the desired treatment region, delivering at least one
pulse of electrical energy to generate a plasma, and flowing the
plasma towards the desired region of the body. A tissue treatment
method is similarly provided that includes inserting a flexible
plasma emitter into a desired treatment region of the interior of
the body, inflating the flexible plasma emitter such that its
exterior at least partially conforms to the desired shape inside
the body, delivering at least one pulse of electrical energy to
generate a plasma, flowing the plasma towards the desired treatment
region of the body, and de-activating the plasma/plasma excitation
means.
[0137] In some implementations of the methods, a sensitizing
material can be applied to the desired treatment area of the body
prior to application of the flexible plasma emitter. A blocking
material can be applied to the desired area of the body to be
protected prior to the application of the flexible plasma emitter.
A method of treating an infection in a subject using the
aforementioned methods is also provided. The infection can be a
bacterial, fungal, viral, or parasitic infection. A method of
treating a skin disorder in a subject is also provided by
administering one or more of the tissue treatment regimens
described herein to the subject. The skin disorder can be rhytids,
wrinkles, actinic keratosis, solar letigenes, viral papillomata,
scarring, seborrhoeic keratoses, sun spots, superficial skin
lesions, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or
melanoma, among others. Similarly, a method of treating a tumor in
a subject is provided including administering the tissue treatment
to the subject according to any of the aforementioned methods.
[0138] In order to address various issues and advance the art, the
entirety of this application (including the Cover Page, Title,
Headings, Field, Background, Summary, Brief Description of the
Drawings, Detailed Description, Claims, Abstract, Figures,
Appendices and/or otherwise) shows by way of illustration various
embodiments in which the claimed inventions may be practiced. The
advantages and features of the application are of a representative
sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and/or
exclusive. They are presented only to assist in understanding and
teach the claimed principles. It should be understood that they are
not representative of all disclosed embodiments. As such, certain
aspects of the disclosure have not been discussed herein. That
alternate embodiments may not have been presented for a specific
portion of the invention or that further undescribed alternate
embodiments may be available for a portion is not to be considered
a disclaimer of those alternate embodiments. It will be appreciated
that many of those undescribed embodiments incorporate the same
principles of the invention and others are equivalent. Thus, it is
to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and
functional, logical, organizational, structural and/or topological
modifications may be made without departing from the scope and/or
spirit of the disclosure. As such, all examples and/or embodiments
are deemed to be non-limiting throughout this disclosure. Also, no
inference should be drawn regarding those embodiments discussed
herein relative to those not discussed herein other than it is as
such for purposes of reducing space and repetition. For instance,
it is to be understood that the logical and/or topological
structure of any combination of any program components (a component
collection), other components and/or any present feature sets as
described in the figures and/or throughout are not limited to a
fixed operating order and/or arrangement, but rather, any disclosed
order is exemplary and all equivalents, regardless of order, are
contemplated by the disclosure. Furthermore, it is to be understood
that such features are not limited to serial execution, but rather,
any number of threads, processes, services, servers, and/or the
like that may execute asynchronously, concurrently, in parallel,
simultaneously, synchronously, and/or the like are contemplated by
the disclosure. As such, some of these features may be mutually
contradictory, in that they cannot be simultaneously present in a
single embodiment. Similarly, some features are applicable to one
aspect of the invention, and inapplicable to others. In addition,
the disclosure includes other inventions not presently claimed.
Applicant reserves all rights in those presently unclaimed
inventions including the right to claim such inventions, file
additional applications, continuations, continuations in part,
divisions, and/or the like thereof. As such, it should be
understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functional,
features, logical, organizational, structural, topological, and/or
other aspects of the disclosure are not to be considered
limitations on the disclosure as defined by the claims or
limitations on equivalents to the claims. It is to be understood
that, depending on the particular needs and/or characteristics of a
MOE.TM. individual and/or enterprise user, database configuration
and/or relational model, data type, data transmission and/or
network framework, syntax structure, and/or the like, various
embodiments of the MOE.TM. may be implemented that enable a great
deal of flexibility and customization.
[0139] All statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and
embodiments of the disclosure, as well as specific examples
thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional
equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such
equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as
equivalents developed in the future, i.e., any elements developed
that perform the same function, regardless of structure.
[0140] Descriptions herein of circuitry and method steps and
computer programs represent conceptual embodiments of illustrative
circuitry and software embodying the principles of the disclosed
embodiments. Thus the functions of the various elements shown and
described herein may be provided through the use of dedicated
hardware as well as hardware capable of executing software in
association with appropriate software as set forth herein.
[0141] In the disclosure hereof any element expressed as a means
for performing a specified function is intended to encompass any
way of performing that function including, for example, a) a
combination of circuit elements and associated hardware which
perform that function or b) software in any form, including,
therefore, firmware, microcode or the like as set forth herein,
combined with appropriate circuitry for executing that software to
perform the function. Applicants thus regard any means which can
provide those functionalities as equivalent to those shown
herein.
[0142] Similarly, it will be appreciated that the system and
process flows described herein represent various processes which
may be substantially represented in computer-readable media and so
executed by a computer or processor, whether or not such computer
or processor is explicitly shown. Moreover, the various processes
can be understood as representing not only processing and/or other
functions but, alternatively, as blocks of program code that carry
out such processing or functions.
[0143] The methods, systems, computer programs and mobile devices
of the present disclosure, as described above and shown in the
drawings, among other things, provide for improved magnetic
resonance methods, systems and machine readable programs for
carrying out the same. It will be apparent to those skilled in the
art that various modifications and variations can be made in the
devices, methods, software programs and mobile devices of the
present disclosure without departing from the spirit or scope of
the disclosure. Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure
include modifications and variations that are within the scope of
the subject disclosure and equivalents.
* * * * *