Direct-Current Electric Field Distribution in the Brain for Tumor Treating Field Applications: A Simulation Study

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Oncology
• Medical Physics

Background:

• Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) combined with chemotherapy/radiotherapy improve glioblastoma patient survival.
• TTFields utilize alternating electric fields (100–300 kHz, 1–3 V/cm) to inhibit cancer cell proliferation by interacting with polar molecules during cell division.
• Direct measurement of intracranial electric fields is challenging, necessitating accurate simulation models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and utilize a 3D finite element head model for simulating electric field distribution in glioblastoma electrotherapy.
• To evaluate power dissipation and temperature changes in various head tissues under simulated conditions.
• To derive guidelines for designing optimal electrode configurations for personalized glioblastoma treatment.

Main Methods:

• Construction of a detailed 3D finite element model of the human head, including scalp, skull, dura, cerebrospinal fluid, and brain.
• Simulation of direct-current electric fields to analyze distribution under varying potentials and electrode placements.
• Evaluation of total power dissipation and temperature elevation resulting from Joule heating in different tissues.

Main Results:

• The study successfully simulated electric field distribution within the head model.
• Analysis revealed power dissipation and temperature variations across different tissue types.
• The simulations provided insights into the effects of electrode configuration on electric field distribution.

Conclusions:

• 3D finite element head models are valuable tools for predicting electric field distribution in TTFields therapy.
• Simulation results offer guidance for optimizing electrode design for personalized glioblastoma electrotherapy.
• Further research can refine these models for enhanced treatment efficacy and safety.