Apparatus and method to encapsulate, kill and remove malignancies, including selectively increasing absorption of x-rays and increasing free-radical damage to residual tumors targeted by ionizing and non-ionizing radiation therapy

Abstract

Methods for conducting an operation on a living organism are provided, including methods in which a channel is provided around a tissue of the organism, and an encapsulating composition is infused into the channel to encapsulate the tissue in a capsule. The capsule impedes materials encapsulated therein from migrating to other tissues outside the capsule. Also provided are apparatuses for performing methods of the invention. In addition, an improved method of radiation therapy, in which a locally persistent radiation enhancing agent, such as iron dextran or colloidal chromic phosphate P-32, is administered in or near a tissue to be treated, is provided. The methods and apparatuses are especially useful in the treatment and removal of tumors.