Simulation Tools for Radio-frequency Tumor Ablation
Abstract
Tumor ablation utilizing RF energy created by needle electrodes is a promising strategy for treating solid malignancies. Because of experimental difficulties, simulations are essential for generating operational information. Furthermore, codes can be useful in a clinical setting to plot treatment strategies. The application presents several challenges: 1) the code must handle geometric variations in tissues and fields, 2) large changes in tissue properties and blood perfusion may occur with rising temperature, and 3) treatment sequences are generally complex with constraints on current, power or tissue temperature. We describe the ETherm code suite for coupled 2D simulations of RF electric fields and thermal transport. New features make the code a practical tool for medical research: 1) advanced models for tissue properties (including phase changes), 2) feedback mechanisms and current-density surface integrals to enable operation at constant current and power, 3) capabilities to handle complex time sequences with temperature-controlled step points and 4) options for autonomous run control and data analysis to create large data sets. The ultimate goal is to create a clinical tool to aid in treatment planning by creating a database of probe characteristics in different tissues and automating the simulation process. Although ETherm addresses monopolar needle probes, a 3D capability is essential for bipolar assemblies and expanding probes. We hall discuss the features of MedSim, a new 3D code for RF electric fields in conductive dielectrics.
- Publication:
-
APS Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- August 2002
- Bibcode:
- 2002APS..CCP.M2001N