The feasibility of constructing a cylindrical array with a plane rotating beam for interstitial thermal surgery

Area of Science:

• Medical physics
• Biomedical engineering
• Oncology

Background:

• External ultrasound applicators are limited for deep-seated tumors.
• Rotating plane transducers pose technical challenges for interstitial hyperthermia.
• Effective thermal ablation requires precise control of ultrasound beam delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of a cylindrical ultrasound array for interstitial hyperthermia.
• To develop a rotating plane beam for ablating esophageal tumors.
• To assess the potential for generating therapeutic necrosis in deep-seated tumors.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a novel piezoelectric material for array construction.
• Evaluated feasibility using a plane array prototype.
• Measured beam divergence, cross-coupling, power output, and electro-acoustic efficiency.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated sufficient beam divergence and minimal cross-coupling for plane wave generation.
• Confirmed adequate power output for inducing tissue necrosis.
• Showcased the potential of the piezoelectric material for future cylindrical arrays.

Conclusions:

• A cylindrical array with a rotating plane beam is feasible for interstitial hyperthermia.
• This technology offers a promising solution for ablating esophageal tumors.
• The developed piezoelectric array enables precise thermal ablation with sufficient power.