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Evanescent-mode applicators (EMA) for superficial and subcutaneous hyperthermia
J Vrba1, C Franconi, F Montecchia
1Electromagnetic Field Department, Technical University of Prague, Czechoslovakia.
IEEE Transactions on Bio-Medical Engineering
|May 1, 1993
Summary
New waveguide applicators offer flexible, safe hyperthermia for superficial tissues. These devices provide improved heating field penetration and are practical for irregular surfaces.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Physics
- Thermal Medicine
Background:
- Hyperthermia therapy requires effective methods for heating superficial and subcutaneous tissues.
- Existing applicators may have limitations in flexibility, penetration, and applicability to curved surfaces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose and describe evanescent-mode waveguide aperture applicators for targeted tissue hyperthermia.
- To highlight the design features enabling flexible and effective heat delivery.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing air-filled waveguide segments operating below cutoff frequency to support evanescent transverse modes.
- Employing radiators for excitation to generate specific modal heating fields.
- Designing applicators with an air gap for tissue coupling.
Main Results:
- The proposed applicators generate modal heating fields with selected cross-sections.
- Devices are manufacturable in various sizes and shapes due to their air-filled nature.
- Achieved good heating field flexibility and improved penetration depth.
Conclusions:
- Evanescent-mode waveguide aperture applicators are a promising technology for hyperthermia.
- These devices offer safe, practical, and flexible heating for superficial and subcutaneous tissues, including irregular surfaces.