Background
Dr. Christopher Rylander, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at UT Austin, and his team have pioneered the development of the Convection-Enhanced Thermo-Chemotherapy Catheter System (CETCS) to address the challenges in glioblastoma treatment. Dr. Rylander's expertise in biomechanical engineering, manufacturing, and design has led to the creation of this remotely operated, MRI-compatible drug delivery system. With over 30 peer-reviewed publications and leadership of the Medical Device Laboratory, Dr. Rylander's work focuses on leveraging mechanical engineering solutions to healthcare problems.
Technology description
Convection Enhanced Delivery (CED) is a promising technique for delivering large molecules directly into cancerous tissues. However, previous clinical studies have not demonstrated significant improvements in patient outcomes for glioblastoma treatment. The CETCS device revolutionizes drug distribution in CED procedures by enhancing the delivery of large molecule drugs to cancerous tissues, circumventing the blood-brain barrier.
The CETCS is an arborizing multiport catheter equipped with six to nine individual microneedles, enabling the infusion of a larger volume of drugs more evenly and efficiently. Remote-control capabilities allow precise positioning of both the main cannula and individual microneedles during MRI procedures. Each microneedle incorporates a light-guiding capillary to deliver infrared (IR) light and heat to the surrounding tissue, thereby improving drug dispersion. Moreover, the microneedles can be coated with metals such as gadolinium or titanium for easy visualization in MRI applications. Clinical trials have demonstrated that the CETCS significantly enhances drug distribution, leading to improved outcomes for glioblastoma patients compared to standard stationary needle techniques.
Development stage
The CETCS device has reached the lab or bench prototype stage and shows promise for future clinical applications.
Benefits
- Enhanced drug distribution: CETCS improves drug delivery to glioblastoma tumors and margins, enhancing clinical outcomes.
- Real-time adjustments: Remote control enables precise positioning during MRI, optimizing drug distribution.
- Increased efficiency: Arborizing catheter design delivers drugs more evenly and quickly.
- Improved patient outcomes: Comprehensive tumor coverage with cancer-targeting drugs can extend survival and improve quality of life.
Commercial applications
- Medical device companies: Enhance product offerings for glioblastoma treatment
- Research institutions: Utilize CETCS for neuro-oncology studies
- Hospitals and clinics: Integrate CETCS into neurosurgical procedures for improved treatment outcomes
