Electrochemotherapy Effectiveness Loss due to Electric Field Indentation between Needle Electrodes: A Numerical Study

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Biophysics
• Veterinary Medicine

Background:

• Electrochemotherapy (ECT) is an effective anticancer treatment utilizing electric pulses to increase drug permeability into cells.
• In silico modeling aids in understanding electric field distribution in complex anatomical regions, predicting potential treatment challenges.
• Previous studies have focused on standard protocols, but specific anatomical and geometrical considerations require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy and potential pitfalls of needle electrode placement in electrochemotherapy for a canine mast cell tumor.
• To model the electrical conductivity and electroporation effects in a metastatic tumor using mathematical simulations.
• To evaluate different electrode arrangements for optimizing treatment effectiveness and avoiding "blind spots".

Main Methods:

• A mathematical model of tissue electrical conductivity was employed to assess the macroscopic consequences of electroporation.
• An ellipsoidal tumor model was created, considering the specific electrical and geometrical characteristics of the case.
• Simulations were performed based on European Standard Operating Procedures for electrochemotherapy, with subsequent evaluation of alternative electrode configurations.

Main Results:

• The study identified a potential pitfall associated with the use of needle electrodes in electrochemotherapy.
• Mathematical modeling indicated that electrode placement near tumor borders for a single application may lead to reduced effectiveness.
• Overlapping treatment areas, even partially, can increase session duration but likely enhance overall treatment efficacy.

Conclusions:

• Optimal needle electrode placement is critical for successful electrochemotherapy, particularly in complex cases like canine mast cell tumors.
• Mathematical modeling provides valuable insights into predicting and mitigating treatment failures associated with electrode positioning.
• Further research into tailored electrode arrangements and application strategies is warranted to maximize electrochemotherapy effectiveness.