Dual-Antenna Microwave Ablation of Liver Tumor from the 3D-IRCADb-01 Database

Abstract

Microwave ablation (MWA) is a minimally invasive energy-based thermal ablative technique designed to destroy tumor cells using microwave energy. Each tumor indeed has unique characteristics, including size, shape, and location, which significantly influence treatment options. The primary goal is to eliminate malignant cells while preserving as much surrounding healthy tissue as possible. The tissue damage depends on the input power, procedure duration, and the spatial position of the radiator. Thus, it is crucial to determine optimal parameters for maximizing efficacy while minimizing side effects. The ability to adjust the placement and power output of each antenna can lead to more precise treatment, enabling clinicians to tailor the procedure to the specific tumor characteristics. Recent advancements in numerical modeling have enhanced the understanding of ablation procedures. These models simulate the effects of microwave energy on biological tissue, leading to improved procedural efficiency. This study focuses on the destruction of a real large-elongated tumor with maximum dimensions of 56.8 mm × 27.6 mm × 22.4 mm. The investigation employs two identically parallel-positioned probes equipped with multi-slot coaxial antennas. The dual-antenna configuration allows for a more concentrated energy delivery to the tumor, enhancing the effectiveness of the ablation process. The simulation model includes the geometry of the tumor, antenna configuration design, and characteristics of both tumoral and healthy tissues. The findings indicate that utilizing a dual-antenna setup with a power output of 16 W per antenna effectively ablates tumors of interest while sparing healthy tissue.

Keywords

• computational physics
• microwave ablation
• necrotic tissue
• open-source software