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3D modeling of vector/edge finite element method for multi-ablation technique for large tumor-computational approach
Gangadhara Boregowda1, Panchatcharam Mariappan1
1Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Indian Institute of Technology Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Plos One
|July 28, 2023
Summary
This study optimized microwave ablation (MWA) for large liver tumors using a 3D finite element model. Sequential antenna placement achieved 95.5% tumor cell death with minimal healthy tissue damage.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Computational Electromagnetics
- Mathematical Modeling
Background:
- Microwave ablation (MWA) uses heat to destroy tumor cells, but controlling heat distribution is crucial to protect healthy tissue.
- Mathematical models and numerical methods are essential for analyzing heat transfer during MWA treatments.
- Treating large tumors (>3 cm) requires effective methods to create a large ablation zone with minimal collateral damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement a 3D vector finite element method for simulating microwave propagation and specific absorption rate in the liver.
- To optimize MWA treatment for large liver tumors by sequentially activating multiple antennas for uniform heating.
- To analyze thermal damage, tissue contraction, and cell death during MWA using bio-heat and cell death models.
Main Methods:
- Discretization of the wave propagation model using 3D Nedelec elements in H(curl; Ω) space.
- Sequential activation of four antennas placed around the tumor to achieve uniform heating.
- Numerical solution of the 3D bio-heat equation and a temperature-time dependent model for tissue contraction.
- Investigation of thermal damage using a three-state cell death model.
Main Results:
- The 3D vector finite element method effectively simulated electromagnetic propagation with specified boundary conditions.
- Sequential antenna activation resulted in 95.5% tumor cell kill with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue when heating time was 4 minutes per position.
- Local tissue contraction was observed, becoming more pronounced at temperatures above 102°C.
- Numerical results were validated against experimental data.
Conclusions:
- The implemented 3D vector finite element method provides a robust tool for simulating MWA treatments.
- Sequential antenna activation is an effective strategy for improving MWA efficacy in large liver tumors.
- The study successfully modeled thermal effects, including tissue contraction and cell death, providing insights for treatment planning and optimization.
