Time-multiplexed two-channel capacitive radiofrequency hyperthermia with nanoparticle mediation

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Physics
• Radiofrequency Ablation

Background:

• Capacitive RF hyperthermia faces challenges with localized heating and deep tumor targeting.
• Current methods often result in excessive temperature rise near electrodes.
• Nanoparticle mediation can enhance tumor conductivity for improved thermal therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of two-channel capacitive RF heating for improved heat localization in deep-seated tumors.
• To assess the impact of nanoparticle-mediated conductivity enhancement on RF heating precision.
• To reduce adverse temperature effects near electrodes during hyperthermia treatment.

Main Methods:

• A tissue-mimicking phantom with a nanoparticle-infused tumor insert of higher conductivity was developed.
• Two-channel capacitive RF power (26 MHz) was applied in a time-multiplexed manner.
• Magnetic Resonance (MR) thermometry monitored temperature, alongside Finite-Difference-Time-Domain (FDTD) simulations.

Main Results:

• Two-channel RF heating significantly improved spatial heat localization to the target region compared to one-channel heating.
• Simulations and experiments confirmed enhanced heat delivery to the nanoparticle-mediated tumor insert.
• A notable reduction in temperature rise near the electrodes was observed.

Conclusions:

• Time-multiplexed two-channel capacitive RF heating offers superior heat localization for nanoparticle-mediated tumors.
• This technique effectively targets regions with elevated electrical conductivity.
• It presents a promising advancement for localized hyperthermia cancer treatment.