Systems and methods for positioning arrays - Patents.com

Abstract

The system includes an electrode array including a plurality of electrodes and a marker configured to be associated with the patient's skin to indicate a location on the patient's skin for placing the electrode array, and the system can assist the patient in placing the electrode array, particularly in areas where the location is difficult to directly visualize.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims priority to and the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 477,012, filed December 23, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION This application relates to systems and methods for deploying electrode arrays. [Background technology]

[0003] Tumor Treating Field (TT Field) therapy is a proven approach to treating tumors using alternating current electric fields at frequencies between 50 kHz and 1 MHz, more commonly between 100 kHz and 500 kHz. In current commercially available systems, the AC electric field is induced by electrode assemblies (e.g., arrays of capacitively coupled electrodes, also called transducer arrays or electrode arrays) placed on opposite sides of the target area on the subject's body. When an AC voltage is applied between the opposing electrode arrays, an AC current flows through the electrode array and into the subject's body.

[0004] Proper placement of electrode arrays relative to each other and to a target region (e.g., a tumor) can affect the performance of the treatment. However, proper placement can be difficult, especially when the subject places the electrode array themselves. This difficulty can therefore reduce the subject's independence, requiring the subject to have another person (a helper) place the electrode array. Therefore, a method of assisting a subject in properly placing one or more electrode arrays is desirable. Summary of the Invention

[0005] TT fields are approved for the treatment of GBM (global neuropathy), for example, using the OPTUNE technology, which includes a transducer array placed on the patient's shaved head. (登録商標)The OPTUNE system (Novocure Limited, St. Helier, Jersey) delivers TT field therapy. Recently, TT field therapy has been approved as a combination therapy with chemotherapy for malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) and may also be used to treat tumors in other parts of the body. For applications targeting tumors within the torso, the OPTUNE (登録商標) Larger electrode arrays than those currently used in systems may be beneficial.

[0006] In one aspect of the present specification, a system is disclosed that includes an electrode array including a plurality of electrodes and a marker configured to be associated with the skin to indicate a location on the patient's skin for placing the electrode array.

[0007] In one aspect, the electrode array includes a plurality of electrodes and a marker sensor configured to detect proximity of the marker. In some aspects, the system includes an indicator in communication with the electrode array and the marker sensor, the indicator configured to indicate when the marker sensor is in proximity to the marker.

[0008] In one aspect, the method includes placing an electrode array including a plurality of electrodes on the patient's skin based on markers associated with the patient's skin, the markers indicating a location on the skin for placing the electrode array.

[0009] In one aspect, a method includes orienting an electrode array on a patient, the electrode array including a marker sensor, and orienting the electrode array includes positioning the electrode array based on feedback from an indicator in communication with the marker sensor.

[0010] In one aspect, the method includes implanting a marker under said skin of the patient, the marker indicating a location for placing an electrode array to provide a tumor treatment field. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a system for delivering tumor treatment fields as disclosed herein. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary system for orienting an electrode array, according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary system for orienting an electrode array, according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary system for orienting an electrode array, according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an operating environment including a computing device of the system of FIG. 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Various embodiments will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like elements, and the description of like elements will not be repeated for each embodiment, but will be considered the same if previously described herein.

[0013] The present application relates to electrode array configurations that can be used, for example, to deliver TT fields to the body of a subject to treat one or more cancers or tumors located in the body of a subject.

[0014] The present invention may be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description, examples, drawings and claims, as well as the accompanying text. It is to be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the particular apparatus, devices, systems and / or methods disclosed, unless otherwise specified, as such may necessarily vary.

[0015] Headings are provided merely for convenience and should not be construed as limiting the invention. Embodiments shown under any heading or in any portion of this disclosure may be combined with embodiments shown under the same or other headings or in other portions of this disclosure.

[0016] Unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context, any combination of the elements described herein in all its possible variations is encompassed by the invention.

[0017] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" can optionally include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0018] System for providing oncology treatment facilities FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary device 100 for electrotherapy treatment. Generally, device 100 may be a portable battery- or mains-operated device that generates an alternating electric field within the body via a transducer array or other electrodes. Device 100 may include an electric field generator 112 and one or more electrode (e.g., transducer) arrays (e.g., assemblies 10) including a plurality of electrodes 20. Device 100 may be configured to generate a tumor treatment field (TT field) at a frequency ranging from 50 kHz to 1 MHz via electric field generator 112, for example, at a frequency of 50 kHz to 500 kHz (e.g., 150 kHz for one tumor cell type and / or 300 kHz for a different tumor cell type), and deliver it to a region within the body via one or more electrode arrays 10. Electric field generator 112 may be a battery- and / or mains-operated device.

[0019] 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 shown as a single processor 116, it is contemplated that multiple processors may be provided.

[0020] The signal generator 118 may generate one or more electrical signals in the form of a waveform or pulse train. The signal generator 118 may be configured to generate an alternating voltage waveform (e.g., a TT field) at a frequency in the range of, for example, 50 kHz to 500 kHz (preferably 100 kHz to 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.

[0021] One or more outputs 124 of the electric field generator 112 may be coupled to one or more conductive leads 122 attached at one end to a signal generator 118. Both ends of the conductive leads 122 are connected to one or more electrode arrays 10 that are actuated by an electrical signal (e.g., a waveform). The conductive leads 122 may be made of standard insulated conductors with a flexible metal shield and may be grounded to prevent diffusion of the electric field generated by the conductive leads 122. The one or more outputs 124 may operate sequentially. Output parameters of the signal generator 118 may include, for example, the electric field strength, the wave frequency (e.g., the processing frequency), and the maximum allowable temperature of the one or more electrode arrays 10. The output parameters may be set and / or determined by control software 120 (a controller) in cooperation with the processor 116. After determining a desired (e.g., optimal) processing frequency, the control software 120 may cause the processor 116 to send a control signal to the signal generator 118, causing the signal generator 118 to output the desired processing frequency to the one or more electrode arrays 10. Additionally, it is contemplated that the control software 120 may cause the processor 116 to shift or change the direction of the TT field or adjust the properties of the TT field in the manner further disclosed herein.

[0022] System for placing an electrode array Disclosed herein is a system for assisting a patient in placing an electrode array at a specific location on the patient's skin, particularly in areas where the location is difficult to directly visualize.

[0023] 2, a system 200 can include an electrode array 10 (also referred to herein as an "array") that includes a plurality of electrodes 20 (FIG. 1). The system 200 further includes a marker 30 configured to be associated with the skin 202 to indicate a location on the patient's skin for placement of the electrode array.

[0024] In some embodiments, the marker 30 can be configured to be implanted under the patient's skin.

[0025] The marker 30 may include a material configured to guide an electric field. For example, in some embodiments, the material may be conductive. In other embodiments, the material may be dielectric.

[0026] The marker 30 can include a biocompatible material. For example, in some embodiments, the biocompatible material can be or include titanium.

[0027] In some embodiments, the electrode array 10 can include a marker sensor 40 configured to detect proximity of a marker 30. The marker sensor 40 can be, for example, an electromagnetic sensor. The system 200 can further include an indicator 50 in communication with the marker sensor 40. The indicator 50 can be configured to provide an indication when the marker sensor 40 is in proximity to the marker 30. In further embodiments, the marker sensor 40 can be configured to detect alignment between the marker sensor 40 and the marker 30. In these embodiments, the indicator 50 can be configured to provide an indication when the marker sensor 40 is aligned with the marker 30. The proximity and / or alignment of the electrode array 10 with the marker 30 can correspond to the electrode array being correctly positioned on the patient. In some optional embodiments, the detected marker proximity can correspond to a location that aligns with the marker. In other optional embodiments, the indicator can be configured to indicate both proximity and alignment. For example, in some embodiments, the marker 30 and the marker sensor 40 can cooperate to indicate alignment. In some embodiments, the marker 30 can cooperate 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 embodiments, the marker can be elongated such that opposite ends of the marker can indicate distinct positions. Thus, for example, the electrode array 10 can be oriented relative to opposite ends of the marker. In further embodiments, the marker can include multiple elements positioned relative to each other that cooperate with the marker sensor 40 to generate a signal indicative of alignment.

[0028] In some embodiments, the indicator 50 may include an audible indicator, a visual indicator, a tactile indicator, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the indicator 50 may include a speaker. In some embodiments, the indicator may include an LED or other light-emitting device. In some embodiments, the indicator 50 may include a vibration indicator. In some embodiments, the indicator 50 may be configured to provide a binary indication of whether the electrode array 10 is properly placed (e.g., yes / no). For example, the indicator may include a light that flashes or outputs a particular color (e.g., red) when the electrode array 10 is outside a threshold and remains constantly lit or outputs a particular color (e.g., green) when the electrode array 10 is within a threshold. The threshold may be the distance between the marker 30 and the marker sensor 40. In other embodiments, the indicator may be configured to provide a more continuous output (e.g., beeping, flashing, or vibrating at a rate dependent on the proximity of proper placement).

[0029] In some embodiments, the indicator 50 can be coupled to the electrode array 10. For example, in some embodiments, the indicator 50 can be integrated with the electrode array 10. In some embodiments, the indicator 50 can be associated with a device 300 that is separate from the electrode array. For example, the device 300 can be a smartphone, a smartwatch, a wearable electronic device, or other standalone computing device. Thus, in some embodiments, the device 300 can communicate with a marker sensor. The device 300 can execute an application that causes the device to output an indication by the indicator on a display of the device. The indication can be binary (e.g., yes / no). In other embodiments, the indication can provide higher resolution (e.g., showing a number, color, plot, or other output indicating the relative proximity of the marker sensor 40 to the marker 30). In some optional embodiments, it is contemplated that the displayed indication can change in real time in response to changes in the relative position of the marker 30 and the marker sensor 40.

[0030] 3, in some optional embodiments, the marker 30 may include a visible marker. For example, in some embodiments, the visible marker may include a marking 60, such as a temporary tattoo, for placement on the skin 202. The temporary tattoo may optionally be a henna tattoo. In some embodiments, the visible marker may include glow-in-the-dark or black light ink.

[0031] Optionally, the visible marker may include an indication of at least a portion of the periphery of the electrode array. For example, the visible marker may include a trace of the outline or a portion of the outline of the electrode array 10.

[0032] 4, in some embodiments, the electrode array 10 can define at least one opening 62 therethrough. The visible marker can include at least one marking 60 that is visible through the at least one opening when the electrode array is in place on the skin 202 for placement of the electrode array.

[0033] 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 separate openings 62 of the plurality of openings 62 when the electrode array is in place on the skin for placement of the electrode array.

[0034] For example, in some embodiments, the plurality of openings 62 can include a plurality of slots. Optionally, as shown in FIG. 4 , in some embodiments, the plurality of markings 60 can include a plurality of elongated markings that are visible through separate slots 62 of the plurality of slots when the electrode array 10 is in place on the skin for placement of the electrode array.

[0035] 2, the electrode array 10 may include an orientation sensor 70 configured to detect the orientation of the electrode array 10. In some optional embodiments, the orientation sensor 70 may include an accelerometer. The orientation sensor 70 may be in communication with an orientation indicator 72. The orientation indicator 72 may be configured to provide an indication of the orientation sensed by the orientation sensor. In some embodiments, the orientation indicator 72 may 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.

[0036] In some embodiments, the orientation indicator 72 can be coupled to the electrode array 10. For example, in some embodiments, the orientation indicator can be integrated with the electrode array 10. In some embodiments, 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 smartphone, a smartwatch, a wearable electronic device, or other standalone computing device. Thus, in some embodiments, the device 300 can be in communication with the orientation sensor 70. The device 300 can execute an application that causes the device to output an indication of orientation on the device's display. The indication can be binary (e.g., incorrectly oriented or properly oriented, yes / no, etc.). In other embodiments, the indication can provide greater resolution (e.g., a numerical angular offset, color, a plot of the angular offset, or other output indicating orientation relative to the desired orientation of the electrode array).

[0037] In some embodiments, 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 further detect the proper orientation based on at least one visible marker (e.g., by detecting at least one visible marker on the patient's skin). For example, the camera can acquire images, which are then 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 embodiments, the camera can detect the presence or absence of at least one visible marker 60 through at least one opening 62 through the electrode array 10 (FIG. 4). The processor in communication with the camera can make a determination based on the presence or absence of at least one visible marker within the at least one opening (and, optionally, properly oriented within the at least one opening).

[0038] In some embodiments, the device 300 can compare the device's orientation to the proper orientation and provide an output to the patient. The indication can be binary (e.g., incorrectly oriented or properly oriented, yes / no, etc.). For example, in some embodiments, the indication can be provided based on whether the orientation is within or outside a threshold (e.g., optionally + / - 5 degrees). In other embodiments, the indication can provide higher resolution (e.g., indicating a numerical angular offset, color, a plot of the angular offset, or other output indicating orientation relative to the desired orientation of the electrode array). How to Place the Electrode Array

[0039] The method may include placing an electrode array 10 including a plurality of electrodes 20 on the patient's skin based on a marker 30 associated with the patient's skin. The marker 30 may be associated with the patient's skin to indicate a location on the skin for placing the electrode array.

[0040] In some embodiments, the marker 30 may be implanted under the patient's skin.

[0041] Optionally, the marker 30 can include a material configured to guide the electric field. For example, in some embodiments, the material can be conductive. In other embodiments, the material can be dielectric.

[0042] The marker 30 can include a biocompatible material. For example, in some embodiments, the biocompatible material can be or include titanium.

[0043] In some aspects, the marker can include a visible marker. In some optional aspects, the method can further include applying a marker to the patient's skin. 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 glow-in-the-dark ink or black light ink.

[0044] The method can include placing an electrode array 10 on a patient. The electrode array 10 can include a marker sensor 40. Positioning the electrode array can include placing the electrode array based on feedback from an indicator in communication with the marker sensor. The marker sensor 40 can be in communication with an indicator 50 that provides an indication when the marker sensor is in proximity to a marker 30 (e.g., when the electrode array is properly positioned on the patient). The indicator 50 can be configured to provide an indication when the marker sensor 40 is in proximity to the marker 30. In a further aspect, the marker sensor 40 can be configured to detect alignment between the marker sensor 40 and the marker 30 (e.g., when the electrode array is properly positioned on the patient). The indicator 50 can provide an indication when the marker sensor 40 aligns with the marker 30. In some optional aspects, the indicator 50 can be integrated with the electrode array 10. In some optional aspects, the indicator 50 can be associated with a smartphone, a smartwatch, a wearable device, or other standalone computing device.

[0045] The method can include orienting an electrode array 10 on a patient, the electrode array 10 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 higher resolution as further disclosed herein. For example, in some embodiments, the indication can include a readout of a sensed angle relative to an optimal angle.

[0046] The method can include implanting a marker under the patient's skin, the marker indicating a location for placing an electrode array to provide a tumor treatment field.

[0047] In some embodiments, the marker 30 may be implanted within the resection cavity.

[0048] In some embodiments, the markers 30 can be placed close to the surface of the skin so that they can be felt by touching the skin. In this way, the patient can feel the markers to determine their location and the location of the electrode array relative to them.

[0049] In some embodiments, the marker 30 can include a material configured to guide an electric field. In some embodiments, the material can be conductive. In some embodiments, the material can be dielectric.

[0050] In some aspects, the material can include a biocompatible material. Optionally, the biocompatible material can be or include titanium.

[0051] In some embodiments, placing the electrode array 10 on the patient's skin can include placing the electrode array on the patient's back. Exemplary Computing Device

[0052] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary operating environment 1000 including an exemplary configuration of a computing device 1001 for use with the system 200 (FIG. 5) disclosed herein. For example, the computing device 1001 may be a computing device of the device 300 (FIG. 2), which may be, for example, a remote device, such as a smartphone, tablet, personal computer, or other computing device configured to communicate with the electrode array 10 (FIG. 2). In some embodiments, the computing bus 1001 may be integrated with the electrode array 10 (FIG. 2). For example, the computing device 1001 may be at least partially embodied as a microcontroller that controls operation of the integrated indicators. For example, the computing device 1001 (e.g., the microcontroller) may be configured to receive signals from the marker sensor 40 and / or the orientation sensor 70 and to provide indications via the indicator 50 and / or the orientation indicator 72 based on the signals from the marker sensor 40 and / or the orientation sensor 70.

[0053] 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 the one or more processors 1003, to the system memory 1012. With multiple processors 1003, computing device 1001 may utilize parallel computing.

[0054] 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.

[0055] The computing device 1001 may operate on and / or include a variety of computer-readable media (e.g., non-transitory). Computer-readable media may be any available media that can be accessed by the computing device 1001 and includes non-transitory, 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 may store data, such as sensor data 1007, and / or program modules, such as the operating system 1005 and indicator control software 1006, that are accessible to and / or operated by the one or more processors 1003.

[0056] 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 of computer code, computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data for computing device 1001. The mass storage device 1004 may be a hard disk, a removable magnetic disk, a removable optical disk, a magnetic cassette or other magnetic storage device, a flash memory card, a CD-ROM, a digital versatile disk (DVD) or other optical storage device, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), etc.

[0057] Any number of program modules may be stored on the mass storage device 1004. The operating system 1005 and the indicator control software 1006 may be stored on the mass storage device 1004. One or more of the operating system 1005 and the indicator control software 1006 (or some combination thereof) may include the program modules and the indicator control software 1006. The sensor data 1007 may also be stored on the mass storage device 1004. The sensor data 1007 may be stored in any of one or more databases known in the art. The databases may be centralized or distributed across multiple locations within the network 1015.

[0058] A user may enter commands and information into the computing device 1001 using input devices. Such input devices include, but are not limited to, joysticks, touchscreen 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, etc. These and other input devices may be connected to the one or more processors 1003 using a human-machine interface 1002 coupled to a bus 1013, or may 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).

[0059] A display device 1011 may also be connected to the bus 1013 using an interface such as a display adapter 1009. It is contemplated that the computing device 1001 may have two or more display adapters 1009, and that the computing device 1001 may have two or more display devices 1011. The display device 1011 may be a monitor, an LCD (liquid crystal display), 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 may include components such as speakers (not shown) and a printer (not shown), which may be connected to the computing device 1001 using the input / output interface 1010. Any step and / or result of a method may be output (or caused to be output) to an output device in any form. Such output may be any form of visual representation, including, but not limited to, text, graphical, animation, audio, tactile, etc. The display device 1011 and the computing device 1001 may be part of a single device or separate devices.

[0060] The computing device 1001 may operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computing devices 1014a, b, c. The remote computing devices 1014a, b, c may 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 apparel, smart accessories), security and / or surveillance devices, servers, routers, network computers, peer devices, edge devices, or other common network nodes. The remote computing devices 1014a, b, c may perform the respective operations of the system 200 (FIG. 2). The logical connections between the computing device 1001 and the remote computing devices 1014a, b, c may 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 may be made via a network adapter 1008. The network adapter 1008 may be implemented in both wired and wireless environments. Such networking environments are conventional and commonplace in residences, offices, enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets, and the Internet. It is contemplated that remote computing devices 1014a, b, c may optionally have some or all of the components disclosed as part of computing device 1001. In various further aspects, it is contemplated that some or all aspects of the data processing described herein may be performed via cloud computing on one or more servers or other remote computing devices. Thus, at least a portion of operating environment 1000 may be configured with Internet connectivity.

[0061] Exemplary Embodiments Below, more particularly described aspects of the present invention are described in terms of products, systems, methods, and variations thereof. However, these specifically recited aspects should not be construed to have any limiting effect on different claims that incorporate different or more general teachings set forth herein, or to be construed in any way other than in the inherent meaning of the language in which "particular" aspects are literally used.

[0062] Aspect 1: A system comprising: an electrode array including a plurality of electrodes; a marker configured to be associated with the patient's skin to indicate a location on the skin for placing the electrode array.

[0063] Aspect 2: The system described in Aspect 1, wherein the marker is configured to be implanted under the skin of the patient.

[0064] Aspect 3: The system of aspect 2, wherein the marker comprises a material configured to guide an electric field.

[0065] Aspect 4: The system of aspect 3, wherein the material is electrically conductive.

[0066] Aspect 5: The system of aspect 3, wherein the material is a dielectric.

[0067] Aspect 6: The system of any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the marker comprises a biocompatible material.

[0068] Aspect 7: The system described in Aspect 6, wherein the biocompatible material comprises titanium.

[0069] Aspect 8: The electrode array a marker sensor configured to detect proximity to or alignment with the marker when the electrode array is properly positioned on the patient; 8. The system of any one of aspects 2-7, including an indicator in communication with the marker sensor, the indicator configured to indicate when the marker sensor is in proximity to or aligned with the marker.

[0070] Aspect 9: The system of aspect 8, wherein the indicator comprises an audible indicator, a visual indicator, or a tactile indicator.

[0071] Aspect 10: The system of aspect 9, wherein the indicator includes a speaker.

[0072] Aspect 11: The system described in aspect 9, wherein the indicator includes an LED.

[0073] Aspect 12: The system of aspect 9, wherein the indicator includes a vibration indicator.

[0074] Aspect 13: The system described in Aspect 1, wherein the marker comprises a visible marker.

[0075] Aspect 14: The system of aspect 13, wherein the visible marker comprises a temporary tattoo.

[0076] Aspect 15: The system of aspect 14, wherein the temporary tattoo comprises a henna tattoo.

[0077] Aspect 16: The system of aspect 13, wherein the visible marker comprises glow-in-the-dark ink or black light ink.

[0078] Aspect 17: A system described in any one of Aspects 13 to 16, wherein the visible marker includes an indication of at least a portion of the periphery of the electrode array.

[0079] Aspect 18: The system described in Aspect 17, wherein the visible marker includes an outline of at least a portion of the periphery of each electrode array.

[0080] Aspect 19: A system described in any one of aspects 13 to 16, wherein the electrode array defines at least one opening therethrough, and the visible marker includes at least one marking that is visible through the at least one opening when the electrode array is in the location on the skin for placing the electrode array.

[0081] Aspect 20: The system described in Aspect 19, wherein the at least one opening includes multiple openings therethrough, and the at least one marking includes multiple markings that are visible through individual openings of the multiple openings when the electrode array is in the location on the skin for placing the electrode array.

[0082] Aspect 21: The system described in Aspect 20, wherein the plurality of openings includes a plurality of slots, and the plurality of markings includes a plurality of elongated markings that are visible through individual slots of the plurality of slots when the electrode array is in the location on the skin for placing the electrode array.

[0083] Aspect 22: The system of any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the electrode array includes an orientation sensor configured to detect an orientation of the electrode array.

[0084] Aspect 23: The system described in Aspect 22, wherein the orientation sensor is in communication with an orientation indicator, and the orientation indicator is configured to indicate when the sensor is in the proper orientation.

[0085] Aspect 24: The system described in Aspect 23, wherein the orientation indicator is coupled to the electrode array.

[0086] Aspect 25: The system described in Aspect 23, wherein the orientation indicator is associated with a device separate from the electrode array.

[0087] Aspect 26: The system described in Aspect 25, wherein the device is a smartphone, a smartwatch, or a wearable electronic device.

[0088] 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.

[0089] Aspect 28: The system of any one of Aspects 23 to 27, wherein the orientation sensor includes an accelerometer.

[0090] Embodiment 29: An electrode array, comprising: A plurality of electrodes; a marker sensor configured to detect proximity of or alignment with a marker.

[0091] Aspect 30: The method further includes an indicator in communication with the marker sensor, the indicator comprising: 30. The electrode array of embodiment 29, wherein the marker sensor is configured to provide an indication when it detects proximity of or alignment with the marker.

[0092] Aspect 31: A system, comprising: an electrode array according to embodiment 29 or embodiment 30; and an indicator in communication with the marker sensor, the indicator configured to indicate when the marker sensor is in proximity to or aligned with the marker.

[0093] Aspect 32: The system of aspect 21, wherein the indicator is associated with a smartphone.

[0094] Aspect 33: The system of any one of aspects 30 to 32, wherein the instructions include a readout of the detected angle relative to the optimal angle.

[0095] Aspect 34: A method comprising: placing an electrode array including a plurality of electrodes on the skin of the patient based on markers associated with the skin of the patient; The method, wherein the marker indicates a location on the skin for placing the electrode array.

[0096] Aspect 35: The method of aspect 34, wherein the marker is implanted under the skin of the patient, and the marker comprises a material configured to guide an electric field.

[0097] Aspect 36: The method of aspect 35, wherein the material is electrically conductive.

[0098] Aspect 37: The method of aspect 35, wherein the material is a dielectric.

[0099] Embodiment 38: The method of any one of embodiments 34 to 37, wherein the marker comprises a biocompatible material.

[0100] Aspect 39: The method of aspect 38, wherein the biocompatible material comprises titanium.

[0101] Aspect 40: A method described in any one of aspects 35 to 39, wherein positioning the electrode array based on the marker associated with the patient's skin includes detecting the position of the marker under the skin.

[0102] Aspect 41: The electrode array a marker sensor configured to detect proximity to or alignment with the marker; 41. The method of any one of aspects 34 to 40, further comprising: an indicator in communication with the marker sensor, the indicator configured to provide an indication when the marker sensor is in proximity to or aligned with the marker; and positioning the electrode array comprises positioning the electrode array based on the indication from the indicator.

[0103] Aspect 42: The method of aspect 41, wherein the indicator comprises an audible indicator, a visual indicator, or a tactile indicator.

[0104] Aspect 43: The method of aspect 42, wherein the indicator includes a speaker.

[0105] Aspect 44: The method of aspect 42, wherein the indicator includes an LED.

[0106] Aspect 45: The method of aspect 42, wherein the indicator includes a vibration indicator.

[0107] Embodiment 46: The method of embodiment 34, wherein the marker comprises a visible marker.

[0108] Aspect 47: The method of aspect 46, wherein the visible marker comprises a temporary tattoo.

[0109] Aspect 48: The method of aspect 47, wherein the temporary tattoo comprises a henna tattoo.

[0110] Aspect 49: The method of aspect 48, wherein the visible marker comprises glow-in-the-dark ink or black light ink.

[0111] Aspect 50: A method according to any one of aspects 46 to 50, wherein the visible marker comprises an indication of at least a portion of the periphery of the electrode array.

[0112] Aspect 51: The method described in aspect 50, wherein the visible marker includes an outline of at least a portion of the periphery of each electrode array.

[0113] Aspect 52: A method according to any one of aspects 46 to 51, wherein the electrode array defines at least one opening therethrough, and the visible marker comprises at least one marking that is visible through the at least one opening when the electrode array is in said location.

[0114] Aspect 53: The method of aspect 52, wherein the at least one opening includes multiple openings therethrough, and the at least one marking includes multiple markings that are visible through individual openings of the multiple openings when the electrode array is in the location.

[0115] Aspect 54: The method described in Aspect 53, wherein the plurality of openings includes a plurality of slots, and the plurality of markings includes a plurality of elongated markings that are visible through individual slots of the plurality of slots when the electrode array is in said location.

[0116] Aspect 55: A method comprising: 1. A method comprising orienting an electrode array on a patient, the electrode array including a marker sensor, and orienting the electrode array includes positioning the electrode array based on feedback from an indicator in communication with the marker sensor.

[0117] Aspect 56: The method of aspect 55, wherein the marker sensor is in communication with an indicator that indicates when the marker sensor is in proximity to or aligned with the marker.

[0118] Aspect 57: The method of aspect 56, wherein the indicator is configured to indicate when the marker sensor is in proximity to or aligned with the marker.

[0119] Aspect 58: The method of aspect 57, wherein the indicator is associated with a smartphone, a smartwatch, or a wearable device.

[0120] Aspect 59: The method of any one of aspects 55 to 58, wherein the instructions include a readout of the detected angle relative to the optimal angle.

[0121] Embodiment 60: The method of any one of embodiments 55 to 60, further comprising orienting the electrodes based on feedback from an accelerometer coupled to the electrode array.

[0122] Aspect 61: A method, comprising: The method further comprising implanting a marker under the skin of the patient, the marker indicating a location for placing an electrode array to provide a tumor treatment field.

[0123] Aspect 62: The method of aspect 61, wherein implanting the marker comprises implanting the marker within the resection cavity.

[0124] Aspect 63: The method of aspect 61 or aspect 62, wherein the marker is placed in close proximity to the surface of the skin so that the marker can be felt by touching the skin.

[0125] Aspect 64: The method of aspect 63, wherein the marker comprises a material configured to guide an electric field.

[0126] Aspect 65: The method of aspect 64, wherein the material is electrically conductive.

[0127] Aspect 66: The method of aspect 64, wherein the material is a dielectric.

[0128] Embodiment 67: The method of any one of embodiments 61 to 66, wherein the marker comprises a biocompatible material.

[0129] Aspect 68: The method of aspect 67, wherein the biocompatible material comprises titanium.

[0130] Aspect 69: A method described in any one of aspects 61 to 68, wherein placing the electrode array on the skin of the patient includes placing the electrode array on the back of the patient.

[0131] While the present invention has been disclosed with reference to several embodiments, many modifications, variations, and variations of the described embodiments are possible without departing from the field and scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims. Accordingly, it is intended that the present invention not be limited to the described embodiments, but rather have the full scope defined by the following claims and equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. 1. A system comprising: an electrode array including a plurality of electrodes; a marker configured to be associated with the patient's skin to indicate a location on the skin for placing the electrode array.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the marker is configured to be implanted under 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 electrode array a marker sensor configured to detect proximity to or alignment with the marker when the electrode array is properly positioned on the patient; an indicator in communication with the marker sensor, the indicator configured to indicate when the marker sensor is in proximity to or aligned 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 perimeter of the electrode array.

9. 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the electrode array defines at least one opening therethrough, and the visible marker includes at least one marking that is visible through the at least one opening when the electrode array is in the location on the skin for placing the electrode array.

10. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least one opening includes a plurality of openings therethrough, and the at least one marking includes a plurality of markings that are visible through individual openings of the plurality of openings when the electrode array is in the location on the skin for placing the electrode array.

11. The system of claim 1 , wherein the electrode array includes 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, the orientation indicator configured to indicate 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 includes 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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