An adaptive microwave phased array for targeted heating of deep tumours inintact breast: animal study results

It has previously been reported in phantoms, that an adaptive radiofrequenc y phased array can generate deep focused heating distributions without over heating the skin and superficial healthy tissues. The present study involve s adaptive microwave phased array hyperthermia tests in animals (rabbits) w ith and without tumours. The design of the adaptive phased array as applied to the treatment of tumours in intact breast, is described. The adaptive p hased array concept uses breast compression and dual-opposing 915 MHz air-c ooled waveguide applicators with electronic phase shifters and electric-fie ld feedback, to focus automatically by computer control the microwave radia tion in deep tissue. Temperature measurements for a clinical adaptive phase d array hyperthermia system demonstrate tissue heating at depth with reduce d skin heating.