Fusion and Validation Method for Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy Simulation Model and MRI

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Computational Biology
• Oncology

Background:

• Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) is an advanced minimally invasive treatment.
• Accurate thermal modeling is crucial for effective LITT and minimizing damage.
• Integrating real-time data into simulations can improve treatment precision.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simulation program for LITT using Monte Carlo and bio-heat transfer models.
• To create a data fusion strategy for synchronizing MRI data with simulation results.
• To validate the simulation model using clinical MRI temperature data.

Main Methods:

• Monte Carlo simulation and bio-heat transfer models were employed for LITT simulation.
• A novel data fusion strategy was developed to synchronize MRI data with simulation outputs.
• The simulation model's accuracy was verified by comparing predictions with MRI-measured temperatures in brain lesion cases.

Main Results:

• The simulation program successfully integrated with MRI data.
• The data fusion method validated the simulation model's accuracy.
• A 3D visualization of the ablation temperature field was achieved in situ on MRI images.

Conclusions:

• The developed simulation model and data fusion strategy enhance LITT treatment planning.
• The alignment fusion method provides efficient preoperative planning with clear visualization.
• This approach facilitates precise, in situ, 3D temperature field visualization for LITT.