Hyperthermia by magnetic induction: II. Clinical experience with concentric electrodes

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Medical Physics
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Hyperthermia offers a promising adjunct to radiation therapy for malignant tumors.
• Magnetic induction heating at 13.56 MHz presents a novel approach for thermal tumor treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical thermometric outcomes of magnetic induction hyperthermia in patients with advanced malignant tumors.
• To identify tumor characteristics and anatomical locations suitable for this hyperthermia modality.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-one patients with visceral or extensive superficial malignant tumors underwent hyperthermia using magnetic induction (13.56 MHz) with concentric electrodes.
• Clinical thermometry was employed to measure tumor temperatures during treatment.
• Patient-reported outcomes regarding toxicity and discomfort were recorded.

Main Results:

• Only 19% of patients achieved >= 42.5°C in portions of their tumors, and 10% achieved this temperature throughout nearly all the tumor.
• Successfully heated tumors were generally superficial.
• Temperature targets were not met in 71% of patients, with pain, discomfort, and systemic intolerance limiting power in most cases.

Conclusions:

• Magnetic induction hyperthermia at 13.56 MHz demonstrated limited efficacy in achieving therapeutic temperatures in advanced tumors.
• Superficial tumor location appears crucial for successful heating.
• Further research is needed to optimize power delivery and patient tolerance for broader applicability.