Electromagnetic and ultrasonic induction of hyperthermia in tissue-like substances

The potential of electromagnetic radiation and ultrasound for generating hyperthermia in tissues is discussed. Electrical properties, propagation parameters for electromagnetic and ultrasonic radiation and reflection problems yield limitations on most suitable frequency choices. Considerable insight has been gained in electromagnetic induced heat deposition patterns for the case of whole body irradiation and for local irradiations which can cause hot spot type of heating patterns. Pertinent results are compared and indicate that frequencies near 1000 MHz may be optimal for the electromagnetic case. But RF-frequencies using frequencies sufficiently low to reduce the magnetically induced term provide probably greater reproducibility. Finally recent work on mm-wave therapy and diagnosis is indicated. Emphasis is on the comparative merits of the various possible approaches.