A scanned, focused, multiple transducer ultrasonic system for localized hyperthermia treatments

A commercial diagnostic ultrasound scanner (Octoson) was modified for performing hyperthermia treatments. The temperature elevations were induced in tissues by four large, focused ultrasonic transducers whose common focal zone was scanned along a computer controlled path as determined from B-scan images. The system is described and the results of preliminary tests demonstrating some of its capabilities are given. Extensive tests with canine thighs and kidneys were performed. The blood flow to the kidneys was controllable, and thus tumours having different blood perfusion rates could be simulated. The results showed that the system is capable of inducing a local temperature maximum deep in tissues (up to 10 cm was tested) and that tissues with high perfusion rates could be heated.

[1]  John W. Strohbehn,et al.  Experience with a Multitransducer Ultrasound System for Localized Hyperthermia of Deep Tissues , 1984, IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering.

[2]  B. Barlogie,et al.  Ultrasound-induced hyperthermia for the treatment of human superficial tumors. , 1982, International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics.

[3]  J R Mallard,et al.  Errors in temperature measurement by thermocouple probes during ultrasound induced hyperthermia. , 1983, The British journal of radiology.

[4]  G. Hahn,et al.  Ultrasound heating in previously irradiated sitest , 1978 .

[5]  C. J. Martin,et al.  Design of thermistor probes for measurement of ultrasound intensity distributions , 1983 .

[6]  K. B. Ocheltree,et al.  An Ultrasonic Phased Array Applicator for Hyperthermia , 1984, IEEE Transactions on Sonics and Ultrasonics.

[7]  Harold F. Stewart,et al.  Ultrasonic Measurement Techniques and Equipment Output Levels , 1982 .

[8]  K. Hynynen,et al.  A Clinical Hyperthermia Unit Utilising an Array of Seven Focussed Ultrasonic Transducers , 1983 .

[9]  W. Fry,et al.  Determination of Absolute Sound Levels and Acoustic Absorption Coefficients by Thermocouple Probes—Theory , 1954 .

[10]  K. Hynynen,et al.  The Effect of Scanning Speed on Temperature and Equivalent Thermal Exposure Distributions During Ultrasound Hyperthermia In Vivo , 1986 .

[11]  C. Cain,et al.  Annular and Sector Phased Array Applicators for Ultrasound Hyperthermia , 1985, IEEE 1985 Ultrasonics Symposium.

[12]  T. Cetas,et al.  Thermometry considerations in localized hyperthermia. , 1978, Medical physics.

[13]  E. Seppi,et al.  A Large Aperture Ultrasonic Array System for Hyperthermia Treatment of Deep-Seated Tumors , 1985, IEEE 1985 Ultrasonics Symposium.