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Electromagnetic head-and-neck hyperthermia applicator: experimental phantom verification and FDTD model.
Margarethus M Paulides1, Jurriaan F Bakker, Gerard C van Rhoon
1Department of Radiation Oncology, Section of Hyperthermia, Daniel den Hoed Cancer Center, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. M.Paulides@ErasmusMC.nl
Summary
Focused heating in the neck is feasible using an electromagnetic antenna array. This study demonstrated precise steering of specific absorption rate (SAR) patterns, validating simulation accuracy for targeted thermal therapies.
Area of Science:
- Electromagnetic field theory
- Biomedical engineering
- Thermal therapy
Background:
- Precise thermal control is crucial for localized therapies.
- Electromagnetic applicators offer potential for targeted tissue heating.
- Neck region presents unique challenges for focused energy delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally validate focused heating in the neck using a dual-ring antenna array.
- To assess the dynamic steering capabilities of specific absorption rate (SAR) patterns.
- To compare experimental SAR distributions with electromagnetic simulations.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a laboratory prototype head-and-neck applicator with a muscle phantom.
- Employed electric field, Schottky-diode sheet measurements, fiberoptic thermometry, and infrared thermography for SAR assessment.
- Implemented phase steering for radial and axial SAR distribution control.
- Validated measurements against finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulations.
Main Results:
- Achieved a central 50% iso-SAR focus of 35 ± 3 mm diameter and 100 ± 15 mm length.
- Demonstrated accurate steering of the SAR focus (approx. 5 mm accuracy) in radial and axial directions.
- Experimental SAR measurements closely matched simulation predictions across all methods.
Conclusions:
- Focused heating in the neck region is experimentally feasible.
- Effective steering of the focused heating in multiple directions was confirmed.
- Schottky-diode sheet measurements offer a practical balance of accuracy, speed, and effort for quality assurance.
