Programmable ultrasound imaging guided theranostic nanodroplet destruction for precision therapy of breast cancer

Ultrasound-stimulated contrast agents have gained significant attention in the field of tumor treatment as drug delivery systems. However, their limited drug-loading efficiency and the issue of bulky, imprecise release have resulted in inadequate drug concentrations at targeted tissues. Herein, we developed a highly efficient approach for doxorubicin (DOX) precise release at tumor site and real-time feedback via an integrated strategy of "programmable ultrasonic imaging guided accurate nanodroplet destruction for drug release" (PND). We synthesized DOX-loaded nanodroplets (DOX-NDs) with improved loading efficiency (15 %) and smaller size (mean particle size: 358 nm). These DOX-NDs exhibited lower ultrasound activation thresholds (2.46 MPa). By utilizing a single diagnostic transducer for both ultrasound stimulation and imaging guidance, we successfully vaporized the DOX-NDs and released the drug at the tumor site in 4 T1 tumor-bearing mice. Remarkably, the PND group achieved similar tumor remission effects with less than half the dose of DOX required in conventional treatment. Furthermore, the ultrasound-mediated vaporization of DOX-NDs induced tumor cell apoptosis with minimal damage to surrounding normal tissues. In summary, our PND strategy offers a precise and programmable approach for drug delivery and therapy, combining ultrasound imaging guidance. This approach shows great potential in enhancing tumor treatment efficacy while minimizing harm to healthy tissues.

Application of 3D Printing Navigation Template Technology in Severe Hallux Valgus Surgery

OBJECTIVES

To explore the application of 3D printed navigation template technology in severe Hallux valgus surgery.

METHODS

Forty-eight patients with severe Hallux valgus were selected. There were 24 cases in the control group underwent hallux valgus osteotomy using traditional methods and fixed with fully threaded hollow screws during the surgery. There were 24 cases in the 3D group who underwent personalized osteotomy using 3D printing navigation template technology. Patients were followed up regularly for six months after surgery.

RESULTS

The surgery time of the 3D group was shorter than that of the control group, and the intraoperative bleeding was reduced (P<0.05). Compared with the preoperative data, the HVA and IMA significantly reduced immediately and 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery (P<0.05). The VAS scores decreased significantly, while the AOFAS and SF-36 scores increased (P<0.05). At three months and six months after surgery, the VAS score of the 3D group was lower than that of the control group, while the SF-36 score was higher (P<0.05). During the follow-up period, both groups had no recurrent cases or complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The 3D printing navigation template technology improves patients' prognosis, functional recovery, and quality of life.