Numerical simulation of the transient temperature field from an annular focused ultrasonic transducer

Knowledge of the extent of the "heated necrosis element" from a single exposure in target tissue created by an ultrasonic beam is critical for the application of focal ultrasound (US) surgery (FUS). This study uses the O'Nell and Pennes formulas to simulate the heated necrosis element from an annular focused transducer and to examine its dependence on exposure dosage, as well as some design parameters of the transducer. Several conclusions may be drawn from our numerical results: 1. With increasing exposure, the heated necrosis element increases, but its contour becomes plumper and the influence of sound intensity I is found to be greater than that of the exposure time t. 2. To get a similar heated necrosis element, the exposure approximately satisfies a relation: It(0. 4 3)=constant. 3. Increasing the US frequency or the outer-radius of the annular transducer leads to a decrease in the heated necrosis volume.