Electromagnetic–thermal field coupling in tissue ablation: The EAES design and optimization

Abstract

The coupling control of multi-physics fields has become a focal issue in the engineering domain, especially for achieving a more precise simulation and prediction of physical phenomena. This approach plays a crucial role in enhancing design efficiency and optimizing material selection. Focusing primarily on the controllability between microwave and temperature fields, the Emission Area Extension Structure (EAES) is a novel structure in response to the demand for high circularity in microwave ablation. Finite element analysis was employed to examine the distribution characteristics of electromagnetic and temperature fields in liver tissue under varying power and time conditions. Comparative analyses were conducted to evaluate the impact and performance of the EAES vs traditional structures in ablation. Incorporating the EAES into conventional ablation needles allows for a more concentrated distribution of the electromagnetic field without altering the needle diameter. In the simulation of tissue ablation, the circularity of ablation increased by 10%, while water-cooling efficiency increased by 11%. The introduction of EAES, while maintaining its minimally invasive characteristics, effectively enhanced the controllability of conformal ablation. Furthermore, a mathematical model was developed to serve as a theoretical basis for selecting optimal preoperative parameters, incorporating conditions such as ablation time, power, range, and circularity. Overall, by conducting a multi-physics field coupling analysis on microwave ablation needles and proposing the EAES solution, this study aims to enhance the predictability, controllability, and safety of conformal ablation.