Optimal parameters for the efficient microwave ablation of liver tumor from the 3D-IRCADb-01 database

Microwave ablation is a minimally invasive thermal modality for cancer treatment with high survival and low recurrence rates. Despite the unquestionable benefits of microwave ablation, the interaction between the medical instruments and the tissue may cause damage to the healthy tissue around the tumor. Such damages can be removed by clarifying the conditions for their development. In addition to clinical methods, computer simulations have become very effective tools for optimizing microwave ablation performance. Methods: The study was focused on the determination of the optimal input power for complete microwave tumor ablation with an adequate safety margin avoiding injury to the surrounding healthy tissue. In three-dimensional simulations, the liver tumor model was based on a real tumor (1.74 cm × 2.40 cm × 1.43 cm) from the 3D-IRCADb-01 database. Calculations were performed for a 10-slot antenna proven to achieve a higher degree of ablation zone localization than a standard single-slot antenna. The temperature-dependent dielectric and thermal properties of healthy and tumoral liver tissue, blood perfusion, and water content were included in the model. Results: The obtained simulation results revealed that the proper choice of input power ensures that necrotic tissue is mainly located in the tumor with minimal damage to the surrounding healthy tissue. Conclusions: This study may represent a step forward in the planning of individual microwave ablation treatment for each patient.