An RF hyperthermia electrode which generates no edge effect

e22229 Background: For local hyperthermia cancer therapy, radio frequency (RF) capacitive heating with a pair of electrodes is one of the most effective methods. RF hyperthermia with a conventional 2-dimensional square plate electrode produces an ‘edge effect‘ - the focusing of the RF current resulting in focal overheating. We designed and propose a novel hemispherical-shaped RF capacitive heating electrode that generates no edge effect. Methods: A CAD simulation (COMSOL Multiphysics 3.4) was done, and current and specific absorbance ratio (SAR) distributions of both the hemispherical and the conventional square plate shape electrodes were obtained by a 3-D finite element method. Results: The hemispherical electrode generated no focusing of current distribution, nor overheating with SAR elevation, while the square plate electrode produced an edge effect with local SAR elevation. Conclusions: The hemispherical electrode showed no edge effect from focal overheating. Our new electrode may be useful for local...