A NEW APPLICATOR UTILIZING DISTRIBUTED ELECTRODES FOR HYPERTHERMIA - A THEORETICAL APPROACH

We propose a new type of applicator for hyperthermia namely a Distribu ted Electrodes Applicator. Many electrodes are fixed on boli below whi ch the patient is placed. A set of RF with optimized amplitudes and ph ases is supplied to the electrodes so as to minimize the ratio of SAR (specific absorption rate) in the fat layers to that in the central re gion of the patient. SAR patterns in a heated material were calculated using two-dimensional finite element method, and the results showed t hat the proposed applicator can heat the deep portions of the patient without excessive heating of the fat layers.