Process and device to reduce interstitial fluid pressure in tissue

摘要

A method and apparatus are provided for reducing interstitial fluid pressure in tissues, particularly in tumors, by applying suction to the interior of the tissue. The method comprises inserting into the tissue one or more needle-like, elongated tubes, each having at least one hole at or near the end that is inserted into the tissue and each having means to apply suction to the protruding end. The reduced pressure produced inside the tissue by this method is useful to: facilitate penetration by drugs and therapeutic macromolecules into the tissue; enhance radiation treatment of tumors by increasing the oxygen supply in the tumor; and remove fluid to reduce edema in tissues, e.g. brain edema. Means may be provided to measure the pressure within the tissue and to use this measurement to control the suction applied to the tissue through the tubes.