System and method for array positioning

Abstract

A system includes an electrode array including a plurality of electrodes and a marker configured to be associated with a skin of a patient to indicate a location on the skin for locating the electrode array. The system may assist a patient in positioning the electrode array, particularly in areas where direct observation of the location is difficult.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority and the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 477,012, filed on December 23, 2022, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present application relates to systems and methods for positioning electrode arrays. Background Art

[0004] Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) therapy is a proven approach for treating tumors using alternating electric fields with frequencies between 50kHz and 1MHz (more commonly between 100KHz and 500KHz). In current commercial systems, the alternating electric fields are induced by electrode assemblies (e.g., arrays of capacitively coupled electrodes, also known as transducer arrays or electrode arrays) placed on opposite sides of a target area on the subject's body. When an AC voltage is applied between the opposing electrode arrays, an AC current is coupled through the electrode arrays and into the subject's body.

[0005] Proper positioning of electrode arrays relative to each other and the target area (e.g., a tumor) can influence the effectiveness of treatment. However, proper placement can be difficult, particularly when the subject is placing the electrode arrays themselves. Consequently, this difficulty can reduce the subject's independence, requiring the subject to use another person (an assistant) to position the electrode arrays. Accordingly, a method is needed to assist a subject in properly positioning one or more electrode arrays. Summary of the Invention

[0006] TTFields are approved for the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and can be used, for example, by TTFields therapy has recently been approved as a combination therapy with chemotherapy for malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) and may be used to treat tumors in other parts of the body. For use in tumors in the trunk, the current The electrode array used by the system may be beneficial if the electrode array is larger.

[0007] In one aspect herein, a system is disclosed that includes an electrode array comprising a plurality of electrodes and a marker configured to associate with a patient's skin to indicate a location on the skin for positioning the electrode array.

[0008] In one aspect, an electrode array includes: a plurality of electrodes; and a marker sensor configured to detect proximity to a marker. In some aspects, a system includes: the electrode array; and an indicator in communication with the marker sensor, wherein the indicator is configured to cause an indication when the marker sensor is in proximity to the marker.

[0009] In one aspect, a method includes positioning an electrode array comprising a plurality of electrodes on the skin of a patient based on a marker associated with the skin of the patient, wherein the marker indicates a location on the skin for positioning the electrode array.

[0010] In one aspect, a method includes orienting an electrode array on a patient, wherein the electrode array includes a marker sensor, wherein orienting the electrode array includes positioning the electrode array based on feedback from an indicator in communication with the marker sensor.

[0011] In one aspect, a method includes implanting a marker beneath the skin of the patient, wherein the marker indicates a location for positioning an electrode array for providing a tumor treating electric field. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a system for delivering tumor treating electric fields as disclosed herein.

[0013] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary system for orienting an electrode array according to embodiments disclosed herein.

[0014] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary system for orienting an electrode array according to embodiments disclosed herein.

[0015] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary system for orienting an electrode array according to embodiments disclosed herein.

[0016] Figure 5 is included Figure 2 A block diagram of an operating environment of a computing device of a system.

[0017] Various embodiments are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like elements, and wherein descriptions of like elements may not be repeated for every embodiment but may be considered the same if previously described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The present application relates to the positioning of electrode arrays that can be used, for example, to deliver TTFields to a subject's body and treat one or more cancers or tumors located within the subject's body.

[0019] The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description, examples, drawings and claims and the descriptions preceding and following them. It should be understood, however, that the present invention is not limited to the particular apparatus, devices, systems and / or methods disclosed unless otherwise indicated and, as such, may, of course, vary.

[0020] The headings are provided for convenience only and should not be construed as limiting the invention in any way. The embodiments illustrated under any heading or in any section of the disclosure may be combined with embodiments illustrated under the same or any other heading or other section of the disclosure.

[0021] Any combination of the elements described herein in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

[0022] As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" may optionally include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0023] Systems for providing tumor treating electric fields

[0024] Figure 1 An example device 100 for electrotherapy treatment is shown. Generally, the device 100 can be a portable battery or mains operated device that generates an alternating electric field within the body via a transducer array or other electrodes. The device 100 can include an electric field generator 112 and one or more electrode (e.g., transducer) arrays (e.g., assembly 10), each electrode array including a plurality of electrodes 20. The device 100 can be configured to generate tumor treatment fields (TTFields) at frequencies in a range of, for example, from about 50 kHz to about 1 MHz, such as from 50 kHz to about 500 kHz (e.g., about 150 kHz for one tumor cell type and / or about 300 kHz for a different tumor cell type) via the electric field generator 112, and deliver the TTFields to a region of the body via the one or more electrode arrays 10. The electric field generator 112 can be a battery and / or mains operated device.

[0025] The electric field generator 112 may include a processor 116 in communication with a signal generator 118. The electric field generator 112 may include control software 120 (controller) configured to control the operation of the processor 116 and the signal generator 118. Although depicted as a single processor 116, it is contemplated that multiple processors may be provided.

[0026] The signal generator 118 can generate one or more electrical signals in the shape of a waveform or pulse train. The signal generator 118 can be configured to generate an AC voltage waveform, for example, at a frequency (e.g., TTFields) ranging from about 50 kHz to about 500 kHz (preferably from about 100 kHz to about 300 kHz). The voltage is such that the electric field strength in the tissue to be treated is typically in the range of about 0.1 V / cm to about 10 V / cm.

[0027] One or more outputs 124 of the electric field generator 112 can be coupled to one or more conductive leads 122, one end of which is attached to the signal generator 118. The opposite end of the conductive leads 122 is connected to one or more electrode arrays 10 activated by the electrical signal (e.g., waveform). The conductive leads 122 can include standard isolated conductors with flexible metal shields and can be grounded to prevent the spread of the electric field generated by the conductive leads 122. The one or more outputs 124 can be operated sequentially. The output parameters of the signal generator 118 can include, for example, the intensity of the field, the frequency of the wave (e.g., the therapeutic frequency), and the maximum allowable temperature of the one or more electrode arrays 10. The output parameters can be set and / or determined by the control software 120 (controller) in conjunction with the processor 116. After determining the desired (e.g., optimal) therapeutic frequency, the control software 120 can cause the processor 116 to send a control signal to the signal generator 118, which causes the signal generator 118 to output the desired therapeutic frequency to the one or more electrode arrays 10. It is also contemplated that the control software 120 may cause the processor 116 to shift or change the direction of the TTFields, or otherwise adjust properties of the TTFields in a manner further disclosed herein.

[0028] System for positioning electrode arrays

[0029] Disclosed herein is a system for assisting a patient in positioning an electrode array at a specific location on the patient's skin, particularly in areas where direct visualization of the location is difficult.

[0030] refer to Figure 2 , the system 200 may include an electrode array 10 (also referred to herein as an "array") comprising a plurality of electrodes 20 ( Figure 1 ). The system 200 may also include a marker 30 configured to associate with the patient's skin 202 to indicate a location on the skin for positioning the electrode array.

[0031] In some aspects, marker 30 can be configured to be implanted beneath the skin of the patient.

[0032] The marker 30 can include a material configured to guide an electric field. For example, in some aspects, the material can be conductive. In other aspects, the material can be dielectric.

[0033] Marker 30 can include a biocompatible material. For example, in some aspects, the biocompatible material can be or can include titanium.

[0034] In some aspects, the electrode array 10 may include a marker sensor 40 configured to detect proximity to a marker 30. The marker sensor 40 may be, for example, an electromagnetic sensor. The system 200 may also include an indicator 50 in communication with the marker sensor 40. The indicator 50 may be configured to indicate proximity to the marker 30. In other aspects, the marker sensor 40 may be configured to detect alignment between the marker sensor 40 and the marker 30. In these aspects, the indicator 50 may be configured to indicate alignment to the marker 30. Proximity and / or alignment of the electrode array 10 with the marker 30 may correspond to proper positioning of the electrode array on the patient. In some optional aspects, the detected proximity to the marker may correspond to alignment with the marker. In other optional aspects, the indicator may be configured to indicate both proximity and alignment. For example, in some aspects, the marker 30 and the marker sensor 40 may cooperate to indicate alignment. In some aspects, the marker 30 may be capable of cooperating with the marker sensor 40 to generate an electromagnetic signal based on the rotational alignment of the electrode array 10 relative to the marker. Optionally, in these aspects, the marker can be elongated so that opposite ends of the marker can each indicate a corresponding position. Thus, for example, the electrode array 10 can be oriented relative to both ends of the marker. In other aspects, the marker can include multiple elements that are positioned relative to each other to cooperate with the marker sensor 40 to generate a signal indicating alignment.

[0035] In some aspects, the indicator 50 may include an auditory indicator, a visual indicator, or a tactile indicator, or a combination thereof. In some aspects, the indicator 50 may include a speaker. In some aspects, the indicator may include an LED or other light-emitting device. In some aspects, the indicator 50 may include a vibration indicator. In some aspects, the indicator 50 may be configured to provide a binary indication (e.g., yes / no) of whether the electrode array is properly positioned. For example, the indicator may include a light that flashes or outputs a specific color (e.g., red) when the electrode array 10 is outside a threshold, and that remains on or outputs a specific color (e.g., green) when the electrode array 10 is within a threshold. The threshold may be the interval between the marker 30 and the marker sensor 40. In other aspects, the indicator may be configured to provide a more continuous output (e.g., beeping, flashing, or vibrating at a rate that depends on the proximity of proper positioning).

[0036] In some aspects, the indicator 50 may be coupled to the electrode array 10. For example, in some aspects, the indicator 50 may be integral with the electrode array 10. In some aspects, the indicator 50 may be associated with a device 300 that is separate from the electrode array. For example, the device 300 may be a smartphone, a smartwatch, a wearable electronic device, or other independent computing device. Accordingly, in some aspects, the device 300 may communicate with a marker sensor. The device 300 may execute an application that causes the device to output an indication caused by the indicator on a display of the device. The indication may be binary (e.g., yes / no). In other aspects, the indication may provide greater resolution (e.g., showing a number, color, drawing, or other output indicating the relative proximity of the marker sensor 40 to the marker 30). In some optional aspects, it is contemplated that the displayed indication may change in real time in response to a change in the relative position of the marker 30 and the marker sensor 40.

[0037] refer to Figure 3 In some optional aspects, the marker 30 can include a visible marker. For example, in some aspects, the visible marker can include a marking 60, such as a temporary tattoo for positioning on the skin 202. The temporary tattoo can optionally be a henna tattoo. In some aspects, the visible marker can include a shimmer in a thick ink or black light ink.

[0038] Optionally, the visible marker may comprise an indication of at least a portion of the periphery of the electrode array.For example, the visible marker may comprise a trace of the outline of the electrode array 10 or a portion of the outline.

[0039] refer to Figure 4In some aspects, the electrode array 10 can define at least one opening 62 therethrough. When the electrode array is positioned on the skin 202 for positioning the electrode array, the visible marker can include at least one marking 60 that is visible through the at least one opening.

[0040] Optionally, the electrode array 10 may define a plurality of openings 62 therethrough. The at least one marking 60 may include a plurality of markings 60 that are visible through corresponding openings 62 of the plurality of openings 62 when the electrode array is positioned on the skin for locating the electrode array.

[0041] For example, in some aspects, the plurality of openings 62 can include a plurality of slots. Optionally, as Figure 4 As shown, in some aspects, the plurality of markings 60 can include a plurality of elongated markings that are visible through corresponding slots 62 of the plurality of slots when the electrode array 10 is positioned on the skin for positioning the electrode array.

[0042] refer to Figure 2 , the electrode array 10 can include an orientation sensor 70 configured to detect the orientation of the electrode array 10. In some optional aspects, the orientation sensor 70 can include an accelerometer. The orientation sensor 70 can communicate with an orientation indicator 72. The orientation indicator 72 can be configured to cause an indication of the orientation sensed by the orientation sensor. In some aspects, the orientation indicator 72 can include an audible indicator (e.g., including a speaker), a visual indicator (e.g., including a display or light), a tactile indicator (e.g., causing a vibration), or a combination thereof.

[0043] In some aspects, the orientation indicator 72 can be coupled to the electrode array 10. For example, in some aspects, the orientation indicator and the electrode array 10 can be integrated. In some aspects, the orientation indicator 72 can be associated with a device 300 that is separate from the electrode array 10. For example, the device 300 can be a smart phone, a smart watch, a wearable electronic device, or other independent computing device. Therefore, in some aspects, the device 300 can communicate with the orientation sensor 70. The device 300 can execute an application that causes the device to output an indication of the orientation on a display of the device. The indication can be binary (e.g., wrong orientation or proper orientation, yes / no, etc.). In other aspects, the indication can provide greater resolution (e.g., a drawing showing a numerical angle offset, color, angle offset, or other output indicating the orientation relative to the desired orientation of the electrode array).

[0044] In some aspects, the orientation sensor 70 can include a camera of the device 300. The camera can detect the orientation of the electrode array (e.g., by detecting the orientation of lines or other markings on the electrode array). The camera can also detect the proper orientation based on the at least one visible marker (e.g., by detecting the at least one visible marker on the patient's skin). For example, the camera can acquire images that are subsequently processed (e.g., by a processor of the device 300 in communication with the camera) to determine the placement and / or orientation of the electrode array 10. In some aspects, the camera can detect the orientation of the electrode array 10 by intersecting the electrode array 10 ( Figure 4 ) detects the presence or absence of at least one visible marker 60. The processor in communication with the camera can make a determination based on the presence or absence of the at least one visible marker within the at least one opening (and, optionally, properly oriented within the at least one opening).

[0045] In some aspects, the device 300 can compare the orientation of the device with the proper orientation to provide an output to the patient. The indication can be binary (e.g., wrong orientation or proper orientation, yes / no, etc.). For example, in some aspects, an indication can be provided based on whether the orientation is within a threshold or outside a threshold (e.g., optionally, + / - 5 degrees). In other aspects, the indication can provide greater resolution (e.g., a numerical angular offset, a color, a drawing of the angular offset, or other output indicating the orientation relative to the desired orientation of the electrode array).

[0046] Methods for positioning electrode arrays

[0047] A method can include positioning an electrode array 10 comprising a plurality of electrodes 20 on the patient's skin based on markers 30 associated with the patient's skin. Markers 30 can be associated with the patient's skin to indicate locations on the skin for positioning the electrode array.

[0048] In some aspects, marker 30 can be implanted beneath the skin of the patient.

[0049] Optionally, the marker 30 can include a material configured to guide an electric field. For example, in some aspects, the material can be conductive. In other aspects, the material can be dielectric.

[0050] Marker 30 can include a biocompatible material. For example, in some aspects, the biocompatible material can be or can include titanium.

[0051] In some aspects, the marker can include a visible marker. In some optional aspects, the method can further include applying the marker to the skin of the patient. For example, in some aspects, the visible marker can include a temporary tattoo. The temporary tattoo can include a henna tattoo. In some aspects, the visible marker can include a shimmer in a thick ink or black light ink.

[0052] A method may include positioning an electrode array 10 on a patient. The electrode array 10 may include a marker sensor 40. Positioning the electrode array may include positioning the electrode array based on feedback from an indicator that communicates with the marker sensor. The marker sensor 40 may communicate with an indicator 50 that causes an indication when the marker sensor is close to a marker 30 (e.g., when the electrode array is correctly positioned on the patient). The indicator 50 may be configured to cause an indication when the marker sensor 40 is close to the marker 30. In other aspects, the marker sensor 40 may be configured to detect alignment between the marker sensor 40 and the marker 30 (e.g., when the electrode array is correctly positioned on the patient). The indicator 50 may cause the indication when the marker sensor 40 is aligned with the marker 30. In some optional aspects, the indicator 50 may be integral with the electrode array 10. In some optional aspects, the indicator 50 may be associated with a smartphone, smartwatch, wearable device, or other independent computing device.

[0053] A method can include orienting an electrode array 10 on a patient, the electrode array including an orientation sensor 70. The electrode array 10 can be oriented based on feedback from an orientation indicator in communication with the orientation sensor. For example, the orientation indicator can provide a binary indication as disclosed herein or an indication with greater resolution as further disclosed herein. For example, in some aspects, the indication can include a reading of a sensed angle relative to an optimal angle.

[0054] A method may include implanting markers beneath the skin of the patient, wherein the markers indicate locations for positioning an electrode array for providing a tumor treating electric field.

[0055] In some aspects, marker 30 can be implanted within the resection cavity.

[0056] In some aspects, the marker 30 can be positioned close to the surface of the skin so that the marker can be felt by contacting the skin. In this way, the patient can feel the marker to determine the position of the marker and the position of the electrode array relative to the marker.

[0057] In some aspects, the marker 30 can include a material configured to direct an electric field. In some aspects, the material can be conductive. In some aspects, the material can be dielectric.

[0058] In some aspects, the material can include a biocompatible material. Optionally, the biocompatible material can be or include titanium.

[0059] In some aspects, positioning the electrode array 10 on the skin of the patient can include positioning the electrode array on the back of the patient.

[0060] Exemplary computing devices

[0061] Figure 5 An exemplary operating environment 1000 is shown, which includes a system 200 ( Figure 2 ) is an exemplary configuration of a computing device 1001. For example, the computing device 1001 may be the device 300 ( Figure 2 ) of a computing device, which may be, for example, a remote device such as a smartphone, a tablet computer, a personal computer, or a computer configured to communicate with the electrode array 10 ( Figure 2 ) other computing devices in communication. In some aspects, the computing device 1001 communicates with the electrode array 10 ( Figure 2 ) can be integral. For example, computing device 1001 can be embodied, at least in part, as a microcontroller that controls the operation of the integrated indicator. For example, computing device 1001 (e.g., a microcontroller) can be configured to receive signals from marker sensor 40 and / or orientation sensor 70 and, based on the signals from marker sensor 40 and / or orientation sensor 70, cause indicator 50 and / or orientation indicator 72 to make an indication.

[0062] Computing device 1001 may include one or more processors 1003, a system memory 1012, and a bus 1013 that couples various components of computing device 1001 including one or more processors 1003 to system memory 1012. With multiple processors 1003, computing device 1001 may utilize parallel computing.

[0063] The bus 1013 may include one or more of several possible types of bus structures, such as a memory bus, a memory controller, a peripheral bus, an accelerated graphics port, and a processor or local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures.

[0064] The computing device 1001 can run on various (e.g., non-transient) computer-readable media and / or include various computer-readable media. Computer-readable media can be any available media that the computing device 1001 can access, and includes non-transient, volatile and / or non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. The system memory 1012 has computer-readable media in the form of volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM) and / or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM). The system memory 1012 can store data (such as sensor data 1007) and / or program modules (such as operating system 1005 and indicator control software 1006), which can be accessed by one or more processors 1003 and / or operated by the one or more processors.

[0065] The computing device 1001 may also include other removable / non-removable, volatile / non-volatile computer storage media. The mass storage device 1004 may provide non-volatile storage for computer code, computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data for the computing device 1001. The mass storage device 1004 may be a hard disk, a removable magnetic disk, a removable optical disk, a magnetic tape cassette or other magnetic storage device, a flash memory card, a CD-ROM, a digital versatile disk (DVD) or other optical storage, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or the like.

[0066] Any number of program modules may be stored on the mass storage device 1004. An operating system 1005 and indicator control software 1006 may be stored on the mass storage device 1004. One or more of the operating system 1005 and indicator control software 1006 (or some combination thereof) may include program modules and indicator control software 1006. Sensor data 1007 may also be stored on the mass storage device 1004. The sensor data 1007 may be stored in one or more databases known in the art. These databases may be centralized or distributed across multiple locations within the network 1015.

[0067] A user can use input devices to enter commands and information into the computing device 1001. Such input devices include, but are not limited to, joysticks, touch screen displays, keyboards, pointing devices (e.g., computer mice, remote controls), microphones, scanners, tactile input devices such as gloves and other body coverings, motion sensors, voice recognition, and the like. These and other input devices can be connected to the one or more processors 1003 using a human-machine interface 1002 coupled to a bus 1013, but can be connected by other interface and bus structures, such as a parallel port, a game port, an IEEE 1394 port (also known as a FireWire port), a serial port, a network adapter 1008, and / or a universal serial bus (USB).

[0068] The display device 1011 can also be connected to the bus 1013 using an interface such as a display adapter 1009. It is contemplated that the computing device 1001 can have more than one display adapter 1009, and that the computing device 1001 can have more than one display device 1011. The display device 1011 can be a monitor, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, a television, a smart lens, smart glass, and / or a projector. In addition to the display device 1011, other output peripheral devices can include components such as speakers (not shown) and printers (not shown), which can be connected to the computing device 1001 using an input / output interface 1010. Any step and / or result of the method can be output (or caused to be output) to an output device in any form. Such output can be any form of visual representation, including but not limited to text, graphics, animation, audio, and tactile sensations. The display device 1011 and the computing device 1001 can be part of a device or a separate device.

[0069] The computing device 1001 can operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computing devices 1014a, 1014b, 1014c. The remote computing devices 1014a, 1014b, 1014c can be personal computers, computing stations (e.g., workstations), portable computers (e.g., laptops, mobile phones, tablet devices), smart devices (e.g., smartphones, smart watches, activity trackers, smart clothing, smart accessories), security and / or monitoring devices, servers, routers, network computers, peer devices, edge devices or other public network nodes. The remote computing devices 1014a, 1014b, 1014c can execute the system 200 ( Figure 2) corresponding operations. The logical connection between the computing device 1001 and the remote computing devices 1014a, 1014b, 1014c can be made using a network 1015, such as a local area network (LAN) and / or a general wide area network (WAN) or a cloud-based network. Such network connections can be made through a network adapter 1008. The network adapter 1008 can be implemented in a wired environment and a wireless environment. Such network environments are conventional and common in homes, offices, enterprise-level computer networks, intranets, and the Internet. It is contemplated that the remote computing devices 1014a, 1014b, 1014c can optionally have some or all of the components disclosed as part of the computing device 1001. In various other aspects, it is contemplated that some or all aspects of the data processing described herein can be performed via cloud computing on one or more servers or other remote computing devices. Therefore, at least a portion of the operating environment 1000 can be configured to have Internet connectivity.

[0070] Exemplary Aspects

[0071] In view of the described products, systems and methods and variations thereof, certain more particularly described aspects of the invention are described below. However, these particularly described aspects should not be construed as limiting any different claims containing different or more general teachings described herein, or as limiting a "particular" aspect in any manner other than by the inherent meaning of the language literally used therein.

[0072] Aspect 1: A system, comprising:

[0073] an electrode array comprising a plurality of electrodes; and

[0074] A marker is configured to associate with the patient's skin to indicate a location on the skin for positioning the electrode array.

[0075] Aspect 2: The system according to Aspect 1, wherein the marker is configured to be implanted under the skin of the patient.

[0076] Aspect 3: The system of aspect 2, wherein the marker comprises a material configured to guide an electric field.

[0077] Aspect 4: The system of aspect 3, wherein the material is electrically conductive.

[0078] Aspect 5: The system of aspect 3, wherein the material is dielectric.

[0079] Aspect 6: The system according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the marker comprises a biocompatible material.

[0080] Aspect 7: The system of Aspect 6, wherein the biocompatible material comprises titanium.

[0081] Aspect 8: The system according to any one of aspects 2 to 7, wherein the electrode array comprises:

[0082] a marker sensor configured to detect proximity or alignment with the marker when the electrode array is properly positioned on the patient; and

[0083] An indicator is in communication with the marker sensor, wherein the indicator is configured to cause an indication when the marker sensor is in proximity or alignment with the marker.

[0084] Aspect 9: The system of aspect 8, wherein the indicator comprises an audible indicator, a visual indicator, or a tactile indicator.

[0085] Aspect 10: The system of aspect 9, wherein the indicator comprises a speaker.

[0086] Aspect 11: The system of aspect 9, wherein the indicator comprises an LED.

[0087] Aspect 12: The system of aspect 9, wherein the indicator comprises a vibration indicator.

[0088] Aspect 13: The system according to aspect 1, wherein the marker comprises a visible marker.

[0089] Aspect 14: The system of aspect 13, wherein the visible marker comprises a temporary tattoo.

[0090] Aspect 15: The system of aspect 14, wherein the temporary tattoo comprises a henna tattoo.

[0091] Aspect 16: The system of aspect 13, wherein the visible indicia comprises a shimmer in rich ink or black light ink.

[0092] Aspect 17: The system of any one of aspects 13 to 16, wherein the visible marker comprises an indication of at least a portion of a periphery of the electrode array.

[0093] Aspect 18: The system of aspect 17, wherein the visible marker comprises an outline of at least a portion of the perimeter of each electrode array.

[0094] Aspect 19: A system according to any one of Aspects 13 to 16, wherein the electrode array defines at least one opening therethrough, wherein the visible marker includes at least one mark, and the at least one mark can be seen through the at least one opening when the electrode array is located at the position on the skin for positioning the electrode array.

[0095] Aspect 20: A system according to Aspect 19, wherein the at least one opening includes a plurality of openings extending therethrough, wherein the at least one marking includes a plurality of markings, and when the electrode array is located at the position on the skin for positioning the electrode array, the plurality of markings can be seen through corresponding openings in the plurality of openings.

[0096] Aspect 21: A system according to Aspect 20, wherein the plurality of openings includes a plurality of slots, wherein the plurality of markings includes a plurality of elongated markings, and when the electrode array is located at the position on the skin for positioning the electrode array, the plurality of elongated markings can be seen through corresponding slots of the plurality of slots.

[0097] Aspect 22: The system according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the electrode array comprises an orientation sensor configured to detect the orientation of the electrode array.

[0098] Aspect 23: The system of aspect 22, wherein the orientation sensor is in communication with an orientation indicator, wherein the orientation indicator is configured to cause an indication when the sensor is in a proper orientation.

[0099] Aspect 24: The system of aspect 23, wherein the orientation indicator is coupled to the electrode array.

[0100] Aspect 25: The system of aspect 23, wherein the orientation indicator is associated with a device separate from the electrode array.

[0101] Aspect 26: The system according to aspect 25, wherein the device is a smartphone, a smartwatch, or a wearable electronic device.

[0102] Aspect 27: The system of any one of aspects 23 to 26, wherein the orientation indicator comprises an audible indicator, a visual indicator, or a tactile indicator.

[0103] Aspect 28: The system of any one of aspects 23 to 27, wherein the orientation sensor comprises an accelerometer.

[0104] Aspect 29: An electrode array, comprising:

[0105] a plurality of electrodes; and

[0106] A marker sensor is configured to detect proximity or alignment with a marker.

[0107] Aspect 30: The electrode array according to aspect 29, further comprising an indicator in communication with the marker sensor, wherein the indicator is configured to:

[0108] An indication is caused when the marker sensor detects proximity or alignment with the marker.

[0109] Aspect 31: A system, comprising:

[0110] The electrode array according to aspect 29 or aspect 30; and

[0111] An indicator is in communication with the marker sensor, wherein the indicator is configured to cause an indication when the marker sensor is in proximity or alignment with the marker.

[0112] Aspect 32: According to the system according to Aspect 21, the indicator is associated with a smartphone.

[0113] Aspect 33: The system of any one of aspects 30 to 32, wherein the indication comprises a reading of the sensed angle relative to the optimal angle.

[0114] Aspect 34: A method comprising:

[0115] positioning an electrode array comprising a plurality of electrodes on the skin of the patient based on markers associated with the skin of the patient,

[0116] The markers indicate locations on the skin for positioning the electrode array.

[0117] Aspect 35: The method of aspect 34, wherein the marker is implanted beneath the skin of the patient, wherein the marker comprises a material configured to guide an electric field.

[0118] Aspect 36: The method of aspect 35, wherein the material is electrically conductive.

[0119] Aspect 37: The method of aspect 35, wherein the material is dielectric.

[0120] Aspect 38: The method according to any one of aspects 34 to 37, wherein the marker comprises a biocompatible material.

[0121] Aspect 39: The method of aspect 38, wherein the biocompatible material comprises titanium.

[0122] Aspect 40: The method of any one of aspects 35 to 39, wherein positioning the electrode array based on the marker associated with the skin of the patient comprises feeling the location of the marker under the skin.

[0123] Aspect 41: The method according to any one of aspects 34 to 40, wherein the electrode array comprises:

[0124] a marker sensor configured to detect proximity or alignment with the marker; and

[0125] An indicator in communication with the marker sensor, wherein the indicator is configured to cause an indication when the marker sensor is in proximity or alignment with the marker, wherein positioning the electrode array includes positioning the electrode array based on the indication from the indicator.

[0126] Aspect 42: The method according to aspect 41, wherein the indicator comprises an auditory indicator, a visual indicator or a tactile indicator.

[0127] Aspect 43: The method of aspect 42, wherein the indicator comprises a speaker.

[0128] Aspect 44: The method of aspect 42, wherein the indicator comprises an LED.

[0129] Aspect 45: The method of aspect 42, wherein the indicator comprises a vibration indicator.

[0130] Aspect 46: The method according to aspect 34, wherein the marker comprises a visible marker.

[0131] Aspect 47: The method of aspect 46, wherein the visible marker comprises a temporary tattoo.

[0132] Aspect 48: The method of aspect 47, wherein the temporary tattoo comprises a henna tattoo.

[0133] Aspect 49: The method of aspect 48, wherein the visible indicia comprises a shimmer in a thick ink or black light ink.

[0134] Aspect 50: The method of any one of aspects 46 to 50, wherein the visible marker comprises an indication of at least a portion of a periphery of the electrode array.

[0135] Aspect 51: The method of aspect 50, wherein the visible marker comprises an outline of at least a portion of the perimeter of each electrode array.

[0136] Aspect 52: A method according to any one of Aspects 46 to 51, wherein the electrode array defines at least one opening therethrough, wherein the visible marker includes at least one marker, and the at least one marker can be seen through the at least one opening when the electrode array is in the position.

[0137] Aspect 53: A method according to Aspect 52, wherein the at least one opening includes a plurality of openings extending therethrough, wherein the at least one marking includes a plurality of markings, and when the electrode array is in the position, the plurality of markings can be seen through corresponding openings in the plurality of openings.

[0138] Aspect 54: A method according to Aspect 53, wherein the plurality of openings comprises a plurality of slots, wherein the plurality of markings comprises a plurality of elongated markings, and when the electrode array is in the position, the plurality of elongated markings can be seen through corresponding slots of the plurality of slots.

[0139] Aspect 55: A method comprising:

[0140] An electrode array is orientated on a patient, wherein the electrode array includes a marker sensor, wherein orienting the electrode array includes positioning the electrode array based on feedback from an indicator in communication with the marker sensor.

[0141] Aspect 56: The method of aspect 55, wherein the marker sensor is in communication with an indicator that causes an indication when the marker sensor is in proximity or alignment with the marker.

[0142] Aspect 57: The method of aspect 56, wherein the indicator is configured to cause an indication when the marker sensor is in proximity or alignment with the marker.

[0143] Aspect 58: The method of aspect 57, wherein the indicator is associated with a smartphone, a smartwatch, or a wearable device.

[0144] Aspect 59: The method of any one of aspects 55 to 58, wherein the indication comprises a reading of the sensed angle relative to the optimal angle.

[0145] Aspect 60: The method of any one of aspects 55 to 60, further comprising orienting the electrodes based on feedback from an accelerometer coupled to the electrode array.

[0146] Aspect 61: A method comprising:

[0147] Markers are implanted under the patient's skin, wherein the markers indicate locations for locating an electrode array for providing a tumor treating electric field.

[0148] Aspect 62: The method according to aspect 61, wherein implanting the marker comprises implanting the marker within a resection cavity.

[0149] Aspect 63: The method according to aspect 61 or aspect 62, wherein the marker is positioned close to the surface of the skin so that the marker can be felt by contact with the skin.

[0150] Aspect 64: The method of aspect 63, wherein the marker comprises a material configured to direct an electric field.

[0151] Aspect 65: The method of aspect 64, wherein the material is electrically conductive.

[0152] Aspect 66: The method of aspect 64, wherein the material is dielectric.

[0153] Aspect 67: The method according to any one of aspects 61 to 66, wherein the marker comprises a biocompatible material.

[0154] Aspect 68: The method of aspect 67, wherein the biocompatible material comprises titanium.

[0155] Aspect 69: The method of any one of aspects 61 to 68, wherein positioning the electrode array on the skin of the patient comprises positioning the electrode array on the back of the patient.

[0156] Although the present invention has been disclosed with reference to certain embodiments, numerous modifications, variations, and changes may be made to the described embodiments without departing from the sphere and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. It is therefore intended that the present invention not be limited to the described embodiments, but rather have the full scope defined by the language of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A system, comprising: an electrode array, the electrode array comprising a plurality of electrodes; and A marker is configured to associate with the patient's skin to indicate a location on the skin for positioning the electrode array.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the marker is configured to be implanted beneath the skin of the patient.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the marker comprises a material configured to guide an electric field.

4. The system of claim 2, wherein the electrode array comprises: a marker sensor configured to detect proximity or alignment with the marker when the electrode array is properly positioned on the patient; and An indicator is in communication with the marker sensor, wherein the indicator is configured to cause an indication when the marker sensor is in proximity or alignment with the marker.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the indicator comprises an audible indicator, a visual indicator, or a tactile indicator.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the marker comprises a visible marker.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the visible marker comprises a temporary tattoo.

8. The system of claim 6, wherein the visible marker comprises an indication of at least a portion of a periphery of the electrode array.

9. A system according to claim 6, wherein the electrode array defines at least one opening therethrough, wherein the visible marker includes at least one mark that can be seen through the at least one opening when the electrode array is located at the position on the skin for positioning the electrode array.

10. A system according to claim 9, wherein the at least one opening includes a plurality of openings extending therethrough, wherein the at least one marking includes a plurality of markings, and when the electrode array is located at the position on the skin for positioning the electrode array, the plurality of markings can be seen through corresponding openings in the plurality of openings.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the electrode array comprises an orientation sensor configured to detect an orientation of the electrode array.

12. The system of claim 10, wherein the orientation sensor is in communication with an orientation indicator, wherein the orientation indicator is configured to cause an indication when the sensor is in a proper orientation.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein the orientation indicator is coupled to the electrode array.

14. The system of claim 11, wherein the orientation sensor comprises an accelerometer.

15. The system of claim 11, wherein the orientation indicator is associated with a device separate from the electrode array.

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