User tools for treatment planning in the field of oncology

Abstract

A method for generating a transducer layout for delivering a tumor-treating electric field to a subject includes presenting user-selectable icons for displaying slices of medical images, which may be MRI and CT medical images registered together. The slices include corresponding slices of the MRI and CT medical images superimposed on each other. The medical images include voxels. The method further includes presenting user-selectable icons for manually segmenting slices of medical images to obtain manually segmented slices of the medical image. The method further includes presenting user-selectable icons for automatically cleaning up manually segmented slices to obtain cleaned-up and manually segmented slices of the medical image. The method further includes presenting user-selectable icons for generating a transducer layout for applying a tumor-treating electric field to a subject based on the cleaned-up and manually segmented slices of the medical image.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [Cross - Reference to Related Applications] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 750,190, filed on June 21, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 524,387, filed on June 30, 2023, the entireties of which are incorporated herein by reference. This application is related to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 524,470, filed on June 30, 2023, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Background Art

[0002] Tumor treating fields (TTFields) are low - intensity alternating electric fields within the intermediate frequency range (e.g., 50 kHz to 1 MHz) and can be used for the treatment of tumors as described in U.S. Patent No. 7,565,205. TTFields are non - invasively induced in a target area by placing transducers on a patient's body and applying an AC voltage between the transducers. Conventionally, a first pair of transducers and a second pair of transducers are placed on a subject's body. An AC voltage is applied between the first pair of transducers for a first time interval, generating an electric field with electric field lines running generally in the anterior - posterior direction. Next, an AC voltage is applied between the second pair of transducers at the same frequency for a second time interval, generating an electric field with electric field lines running generally in the left - right direction. The system repeats this two - step sequence over the course of treatment.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0003] [Figure 1] A flowchart showing a method for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering TTFields to a subject according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 2] An example of a user interface of a computer - based application for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering TTFields to a subject. [Figure 3]This is an example of a user interface for a computer-based application for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject. [Figure 4] This is an example of a user interface for a computer-based application for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart showing a method for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject, according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 6] This is an example of a user interface for a computer-based application for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart showing a method for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject, according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 8] This is an example of a user interface for a computer-based application for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart showing a method for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject, according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 10] This is an example of a user interface for a computer-based application for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart showing a method for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject, according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 12]This is an example of a system for delivering a TT electric field to a subject's body, according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 13] This is an example of the placement of a transducer on the head of a subject according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 14] This is an example of an apparatus for carrying out the disclosed method according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0004] This application describes an exemplary user tool for a treatment planning for administering a TT electric field to a subject.

[0005] Generally, one or more pairs of transducers are placed on the subject's body and used to alternately apply a TT electric field to the subject's body. Generally, it is preferable to have at least two pairs of transducers positioned to target specific locations or structures within the subject (e.g., tumors). Therefore, proper placement of transducers is useful in treating the subject. Conventional treatment plans use a series of measurements obtained from the subject's magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to measure aspects of the subject (e.g., the size of the subject's head, the location of the tumor, the size of the tumor, and / or combinations thereof and / or multiple combinations thereof, including similar elements). These measurements are then used to generate the transducer layout.

[0006] The inventors recognized the need for a treatment plan that could provide a more customized layout for applying the TT electric field to a subject.

[0007] Embodiments described herein provide planning of TT electric fields based on medical images such as MRI and / or computed tomography (CT) medical images. The planning generates one or more transducer layouts for applying a TT electric field to a subject using MRI and / or CT medical images. As will become apparent in this disclosure, one or more techniques are provided for generating transducer layouts. For example, embodiments for generating transducer layouts use an automated matching tool for automatically registering MRI and CT medical images. Another embodiment for generating transducer layouts uses an overlapping segmentation tool that automatically segments a slice between two slices segmented by the user. That is, the user manually segments two slices, and the overlapping segmentation tool automatically segments a slice between the two slices segmented by the user. Another embodiment for generating transducer layouts uses a splitting segmentation tool for dividing the segmentation region. For example, after a user manually segments a slice, a segmentation tool divides the segmentation region based on the grayscale values ​​of pixels in the medical image, for example, using a grayscale slider. In another embodiment for generating a transducer layout, a cleanup segmentation tool is used to improve the segmentation region. For example, after a slice has been manually segmented, the cleanup segmentation tool can be used to smooth the edges of the segmentation region and remove similar elements, including irregularly segmented islands and / or holes, and / or combinations thereof and / or multiple combinations thereof. In another embodiment for generating a transducer layout, an avoidance region tool is used to identify areas of the subject that should be avoided for placing the transducer array.It should be understood that the automatic matching tool, duplicate segmentation tool, split segmentation tool, cleanup segmentation tool, and / or avoidance area tool can be used individually and / or in different combinations, and can be employed at different stages of the process for generating transducer layouts. Furthermore, one or more tools can be combined, such as the split segmentation tool and the cleanup segmentation tool.

[0008] The embodiments described herein further provide practical applications for generating transducer layouts based on user medical images. When generating transducer layouts for treating a subject, the conductivity of the subject's tissues is taken into consideration, using medical images such as MRI and CT images. By using tools (e.g., automatic matching tools, overlapping segmentation tools, split segmentation tools, cleanup segmentation tools, and / or avoidance area tools), medical images can be used more effectively to generate transducer layouts for applying a TT electric field to a subject. For example, these tools help pinpoint areas of the subject to be treated (e.g., where to concentrate the electric field relative to the subject). These and other technical improvements may be implemented using one or more embodiments described herein.

[0009] Figure 1 is a flowchart of Method 100 for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject. In this example, Method 100 automatically registers MRI and CT medical images. Method 100 can be carried out by any suitable system or apparatus, such as the system and / or apparatus of Figure 12 and / or Figure 14. Now, Method 100 will be described with reference to example user interfaces of computer-based applications for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject, as shown in Figures 2-4, but Method 100 is not limited thereto. While the sequence of operations is shown in Figure 1 for illustrative purposes, the timing and sequence of such operations may be modified where appropriate without prejudice to the purpose and merits of the examples, which are described in detail throughout the remainder of this disclosure.

[0010] In block 102, method 100 stores multiple medical images of a subject in memory (e.g., memory 1226 in Figure 12, memory 1403 in Figure 14, and / or combinations thereof and / or multiple combinations thereof, similar elements). Medical images may include, for example, MRI medical images and CT medical images, and medical images may include voxels. For example, Figure 2 shows a user interface for a computer-based application for generating transducer layouts. In Figure 2, a user interface for loading medical images, such as MRI medical images and CT medical images, into memory is provided. The user can load medical images by selecting the + button 202 and then selecting the Add Series to Plan button 204 to add the medical images. According to one embodiment, user-selectable lists of MRI medical images and user-selectable lists of CT medical images are presented together on the display as, for example, a selected series 206.

[0011] In block 104, method 100 presents user-selectable options on the display for automatically registering MRI and CT medical images together. For example, Figure 3 shows a user interface for performing automatic registration (e.g., automatic matching) using an automatic matching tool. Automatic matching includes automatically registering MRI and CT medical images together.

[0012] In block 106, method 100 receives a user-selectable option for automatically registering MRI and CT medical images together. Referring to Figure 3, the user initiates automatic registration by selecting the automatic matching button 302, then makes any additional selections, and finally selects the complete button 304, at which point the automatic matching is performed.

[0013] In block 108, method 100 automatically registers MRI and CT medical images together to obtain registered MRI and CT medical images without requiring the user to manually register the medical images. According to one embodiment, when MRI and CT medical images are automatically registered together, they are aligned and linked to each other. According to one embodiment, when MRI and CT medical images are automatically registered together, the CT medical image is registered relative to the MRI medical image. However, in some cases, the user may manually register some or all of the MRI and CT medical images. For example, method 100 may present one or more user-selectable icons on the display for manually registering MRI and CT medical images together to obtain the registered MRI and CT medical images. Registering CT medical images with MRI medical images may make bones clearer and improve the accuracy of the subject's three-dimensional (3D) model. For example, Figure 4 shows an interface showing a 3D rendering 402 of a subject. In other words, 3D rendering 402 shows a rendering of the outer surface of the patient's head. In some examples, 3D rendering 402 can show a transducer array placed on the outer surface of the patient's head. The normal structure is shown in the Structure tab 404 and can be modified using the Tools tab 406.

[0014] According to one or more embodiments described herein, Method 100 presents user-selectable icons on a display for selectively changing the opacity between corresponding slices of an MRI medical image and a CT medical image, with the corresponding slices of the MRI and CT medical images superimposed on each other. For example, Figure 4 shows an opacity slider 408 for selectively changing the opacity between corresponding slices of an MRI and CT medical image. According to one embodiment, the slider 408 may have a first end and a second end such that when the first end of the slider icon is selected, only the corresponding slice of the MRI medical image is displayed, and when the second end of the slider icon is selected, only the corresponding slice of the CT medical image is displayed.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 4, method 100 can present user-selectable icons on a display for simultaneously displaying a front view 410, a side view 412, and a top view 414 of corresponding slices of an MRI medical image and a CT medical image. The corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image are overlapped with each other as shown. The front view 410, the side view 412, and / or the top view 414 are operable by a user. For example, method 100 can present one or more user-selectable icons 420 on the display for selectively enlarging and reducing one or more of the front view 410, the side view 412, and / or the top view 414 of the corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image, and the corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image are overlapped with each other. Method 100 can further present one or more user-selectable icons 422 on the display for selectively displaying one of the front view 410, the side view 412, and / or the top view 414 of the corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image, and the corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image are overlapped with each other.

[0016] In some examples, slices can be displayed before and after registration. For example, method 100 can display corresponding slices of the pre-registered MRI medical image and the CT medical image on the display, and can also display corresponding slices of the registered MRI medical image and the CT medical image on the display.

[0017] In block 110, method 100 generates a plurality of transducer layouts for applying a tumor treatment electric field to a subject based on the registered MRI and CT medical images. For example, referring to FIG. 4, after registration is performed, the user can select a transducer array layout (TAL) calculation button 416 to calculate a transducer array layout or a plurality of transducer array layouts.

[0018] Figure 5 is a flowchart of Method 500 for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject. In this example, Method 500 automatically performs slice segmentation. Method 500 can be carried out by any suitable system or apparatus, such as the system and / or apparatus of Figure 12 and / or Figure 14. Now, Method 500 is described with reference to an example user interface of a computer-based application for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject, as shown in Figure 6, but Method 500 is not limited thereto. While the sequence of operations is shown in Figure 5 for illustrative purposes, the timing and sequence of such operations may be modified where appropriate without prejudice to the purpose and merits of the example, which are described in detail throughout the rest of this disclosure.

[0019] In block 502, method 500 presents slices of the subject's medical image on a display. The medical image may include MRI and CT medical images registered together, for example, using method 100. The slices include corresponding slices of the MRI and CT medical images superimposed on each other, and the medical image includes voxels.

[0020] In block 504, method 500 receives a first manual segmentation of a first slice of a medical image. For example, a user selects a first slice on the medical image. For example, FIG. 6 shows a user interface for automatically segmenting a medical image. In this example, the user can select tool tab 602 and start outlining the structure. The user can then select the active structure via dropdown 604 to specify the type of structure to outline (e.g., resection cavity). Optionally, the user can also select the active structure for segmentation by selecting structure tab 605. In tool tab 602, the user can select brush 606 (or any other suitable tool) to perform the segmentation. Manual segmentation will be described later with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8.

[0021] In block 506, method 500 receives a second manual segmentation of a second slice of the medical image. For example, a user selects a second slice on the medical image. The first slice and the second slice may be in the same direction or may be separated by a plurality of slices of the medical image.

[0022] In block 508, method 500 presents user-selectable options on a display for automatically segmenting the medical image. According to one or more embodiments described herein, referring to FIG. 6, an interpolation tool 608 can be used to speed up the segmentation. For example, a structure can be segmented on a first slice (block 504), one or more subsequent slices can be skipped, and then the structure can be segmented again on the next slice following the skipped slices (block 506).

[0023] In block 510, method 500 receives a selection of user-selectable options for automatically segmenting medical images. For example, referring to Figure 6, the interpolation tool 608 can be selected by the user to apply segmentation to skipped slices. Here, the interpolation segmentation is performed based on the segmentation performed on slices adjacent to the skipped slices. In other words, the user can select an interpolation tool to start automatic segmentation.

[0024] In block 512, method 500 obtains a segmented medical image by automatically segmenting multiple slices between a first slice and a second slice based on a first manual segmentation and a second manual segmentation. The automatically segmented slices can be automatically segmented by interpolating between manually segmented slices of the medical image. The automatically segmented slices of the medical image are located between manually segmented slices of the medical image (e.g., a first slice and a second slice), the automatically segmented slices may be in the same direction as the manually segmented slices, and the automatically segmented slices can be automatically segmented based on the manually segmented slices. As an example, the number of automatically segmented slices between a pair of manually segmented slices is between 2 and 20. As another example, the number of automatically segmented slices between a pair of manually segmented slices is between 2 and 5. Other numbers of automatically segmented slices are also possible.

[0025] In some embodiments, before automatic segmentation, any manually segmented slices may be cleaned up, for example, using a method for cleaning up slices, as described later with reference to Figure 7. In some embodiments, after automatic segmentation, the segmented slices may be cleaned up, for example, using a method for cleaning up slices, as described later with reference to Figure 7.

[0026] In block 514, method 500 generates multiple transducer layouts for applying a tumor-treating electric field to a subject based on segmented medical images. For example, referring to Figure 4, after automatic segmentation is performed, the user can select the TAL calculation button 416 to calculate a transducer array layout or multiple transducer array layouts.

[0027] Method 500 also supports manual segmentation in one or more embodiments, for example, in blocks 504 and 506. For example, Method 500 may present one or more user-selectable icons on the display for obtaining manually segmented slices of a medical image to obtain manually segmented slices of a medical image. Multiple transducer layouts for applying a tumor therapeutic electric field to a subject may further be based on manually segmented slices of a medical image.

[0028] Figure 7 is a flowchart of Method 700 for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject. In this example, Method 700 divides and cleans up segments. Method 700 can be carried out by any suitable system or apparatus, such as the system and / or apparatus of Figure 12 and / or Figure 14. Now, Method 700 is described with reference to an example user interface of a computer-based application for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject, as shown in Figure 8, but Method 700 is not limited thereto. While the sequence of operations is shown in Figure 7 for illustrative purposes, the timing and sequence of such operations may be modified where appropriate without prejudice to the purpose and merits of the example, which are described in detail throughout the rest of this disclosure.

[0029] In block 702, method 700 presents slices of the subject's medical images on a display. The medical images are MRI and CT images registered together. The slices include corresponding slices of the MRI and CT images superimposed on each other, and the medical images include voxels.

[0030] In block 704, method 700 receives manual segmentation of a medical image slice and obtains a manually segmented slice. For example, the user interface in Figure 8 shows similar elements including multiple user-selectable options 802 (e.g., user-selectable icons) for manually segmenting a slice, user-selectable icon 804 (e.g., polybrush option) for automatically filling regions, user-selectable icon 806 (e.g., paintbrush option) for selecting regions without automatic filling, user-selectable icon 808 (e.g., erase option) for erasing segmentation, user-selectable icon 810 (e.g., assignment option) for assigning tissue types, user-selectable icon 812 (e.g., enlarge and margin option) for extending region boundaries, and / or combinations thereof and / or multiple combinations thereof.

[0031] In block 706, method 700 presents user-selectable options on the display for automatically cleaning up manually segmented slices. For example, user-selectable option 802 in Figure 8 may include a user-selectable icon 814 for automatically cleaning up slices.

[0032] In block 708, method 700 receives a selection of a user-selectable icon 814 for automatically cleaning up manually segmented slices.

[0033] In block 710, method 700 automatically cleans up a manually segmented slice to obtain a cleaned-up medical image of the manually segmented slice. For example, a manually segmented slice is automatically cleaned up by dividing the segmentation region of the manually segmented slice into a first part and a second part based on grayscale values. The first part is identified as normal tissue, and the second part as abnormal tissue. Abnormal tissue can include similar elements such as tumors, necrotic tissue, previous surgical sites, and / or combinations thereof and / or multiple combinations thereof. As an example, the segmentation region is divided based on a threshold adjusted by a user-selectable slider of grayscale values ​​(e.g., a grayscale slider). In some embodiments, a user-adjustable icon (e.g., a slider, knob, or field with a menu-selectable value for the grayscale value) may be presented on the display to identify a threshold for the grayscale value, where grayscale values ​​on the first side of the threshold are designated as being in the first part, and grayscale values ​​on the second side of the threshold are designated as being in the second part. According to one or more embodiments described herein, a manually segmented slice can be automatically cleaned up by, for example, smoothing one or more edges of the segmentation region of the manually segmented slice, removing one or more discontinuous segmentation regions outside the larger segmentation region of the manually segmented slice, removing one or more non-segmentation regions inside the segmentation region of the manually segmented slice, and / or combinations thereof and / or multiple combinations thereof.

[0034] In block 712, method 700 generates multiple transducer layouts for applying a tumor-treating electric field to a subject based on cleaned-up and manually segmented slices of medical images. For example, referring to Figure 4, after cleanup is performed, the user can select the transducer array layout (TAL) calculation button 416 to calculate a transducer array layout or multiple transducer array layouts.

[0035] Figure 9 is a flowchart of Method 900 for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject. In this example, Method 900 identifies areas where the placement of the transducer array should be avoided. Method 900 can be carried out by any suitable system or apparatus, such as the system and / or apparatus of Figure 12 and / or Figure 14. Now, Method 900 will be described with reference to, but is not limited to, an example of a user interface for a computer-based application for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject, as shown in Figure 10. Although the sequence of operations is shown in Figure 9 for illustrative purposes, the timing and sequence of such operations may be modified where appropriate without prejudice to the purpose and merits of the example, which are described in detail throughout the rest of this disclosure.

[0036] In block 902, method 900 presents a user-rotatable three-dimensional external view of the subject on a display. The 3D external view of the subject is associated with a 3D model of the subject. The 3D model of the subject may be based on jointly registered MRI and CT medical images, or on MRI medical images only, or on CT medical images only, as described herein. The 3D model includes voxels to which tissue types and associated conductivity are assigned. Figure 10 shows a user interface that displays multiple figures, which are both internal and external views of the subject, as a 3D rendering 1002. According to one or more embodiments described herein, a three-dimensional conductivity map is part of the 3D model. The three-dimensional conductivity map may represent the conductivity of the subject's body tissues.

[0037] In block 904, method 900 presents on the display a user-selectable option for identifying one or more avoidance areas on a three-dimensional view of the subject. Avoidance areas may identify areas on the subject to avoid the placement of at least some of the transducer arrays. For example, in Figure 10, the avoidance area tool 1004 can be used to identify one or more avoidance areas on a three-dimensional view of the subject (e.g., 3D rendering 1002).

[0038] In block 906, method 900 receives the identification of one or more avoid areas on a three-dimensional external view of a subject in order to obtain one or more identified avoid areas on a three-dimensional external view of the subject. According to one or more embodiments described herein, method 900 presents at least one identified avoid area on a three-dimensional external view of the subject on a display. For example, in Figure 10, once the avoid area tool 1004 is selected, the user moves the cursor and the user selects an area of ​​the subject's 3D rendering 1002 and identifies the avoid area. One or more areas of the subject's 3D rendering 1002 can be selected as avoid areas. The subject's 3D rendering 1002 can be rotated and / or scaled to facilitate the selection of one or more avoid areas. To delete an avoid area, the delete avoid area tool 1006 may be selected and the user may move the cursor to a previously identified avoid area to identify and delete it from the 3D rendering 1002. For example, in Figure 10, three avoidance areas 1006, 1008, and 1010 are shown as three substantially circular areas on the 3D rendering 1002 of the subject. According to one or more embodiments described herein, Method 900 presents on the display at least one of user-selectable icons 1012 for adjusting the size of the avoidance area or user-selectable icons for selecting the shape of the avoidance area, as shown in window 1014. For example, the size of the avoidance area is adjustable between about 1 mm and about 15 mm, but other sizes are also possible. As an example, the shape of the avoidance area is substantially circular, but other shapes are also possible. According to one or more embodiments described herein, Method 900 can present on the display a user-selectable icon for receiving the shape of at least one avoidance area manually drawn by the user.

[0039] In block 908, method 900 generates a plurality of transducer layouts for applying a tumor-treating electric field to a subject based on one or more identified avoidance regions on a three-dimensional view of the subject. Referring to Figure 4, for example, after automatic segmentation is performed, the user can select the TAL calculation button 416 to calculate a transducer array layout or a plurality of transducer array layouts. According to one or more embodiments described herein, method 900 further presents on the display a tumor-treating electric field of a first dose to be delivered to the subject for a first transducer layout among the plurality of transducer layouts, such that the first transducer layout avoids all of the identified avoidance regions. According to one or more embodiments described herein, method 900 further presents on the display a tumor-treating electric field of a second dose to be delivered to the subject for a second transducer layout among the plurality of transducer layouts, such that the second transducer layout is located over at least one of the identified avoidance regions.

[0040] The transducer layout can take different forms in various embodiments. For example, a first transducer layout among multiple transducer layouts avoids a designated avoidance area. In this example, the first transducer layout includes one or more electrode elements arranged so that no electrode element is located in any of the designated avoidance areas. In another example, a first transducer layout among multiple transducer layouts avoids a designated avoidance area. In this example, the first transducer layout includes adhesive portions for attaching the first transducer layout to a subject, where no adhesive portions are located in any of the designated avoidance areas.

[0041] Figure 11 is a flowchart of Method 1100 for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a TT electric field to a subject. Method 1100 can be carried out by any suitable system or apparatus, such as the system and / or apparatus of Figure 12 and / or Figure 14. Although the sequence of operations is shown in Figure 11 for illustrative purposes, the timing and sequence of such operations may be modified where appropriate without prejudice to the purpose and merits of the examples which are described in detail throughout the rest of this disclosure.

[0042] In block 1102, method 1100 presents user-selectable icons on the display for automatically registering MRI and CT medical images together to obtain registered MRI and CT medical images. As an example, the user-selectable auto-matching button 302 in the user interface of Figure 3 is user-selectable to start automatic registration. Figure 1 shows method 100 for automatically registering MRI and CT medical images as described herein.

[0043] In block 1104, method 1100 presents a user-selectable icon on the display for automatically cleaning up segmented slices in order to obtain cleaned and segmented slices of a medical image. For example, the user-selectable icon 814 in the user interface of Figure 8 is user-selectable to initiate automatic cleanup of slices of a medical image. Figure 7 shows method 700 for segmenting and cleaning up as described herein. For example, in block 1106, slices may be automatically cleaned up after manual or automatic segmentation.

[0044] In block 1106, method 1100 presents user-selectable icons on the display for automatically segmenting multiple slices to obtain segmented slices of a medical image. As an example, the interpolation tool 608 in the user interface of Figure 6 is user-selectable to initiate automatic slice segmentation. Figure 5 shows method 500 for automatically performing slice segmentation as described herein.

[0045] In block 1108, method 1100 presents user-selectable icons on the display for identifying one or more areas on a three-dimensional view of a subject to avoid the placement of at least some of the transducer arrays, in order to obtain one or more identified avoidance areas. As an example, the avoidance area tool 1004 on the user interface of Figure 10 is user-selectable for identifying one or more avoidance areas on a three-dimensional view of a subject (e.g., 3D rendering 1002). Figure 9 shows method 900 for identifying areas to avoid the placement of transducer arrays, as described herein.

[0046] In block 1110, method 1100 presents user-selectable icons on the display for generating multiple transducer layouts for applying a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, based on registered MRI and CT medical images, cleaned and segmented slices, segmented slices, and one or more identified avoidance regions. As an example, the TAL calculation button 416 in Figure 4 is user-selectable to generate multiple transducer layouts for applying a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, based on registered MRI and CT medical images, cleaned and segmented slices, segmented slices, and one or more identified avoidance regions.

[0047] Figure 12 shows an example of a device 1200 that applies an alternating current electric field (e.g., a TT electric field) to a subject's body. This system may be used to treat a target area of ​​the subject's body with the alternating current electric field. In one example, the target area may be within the subject's brain, and the alternating current electric field may be delivered to the subject's body via two pairs of transducer arrays (e.g., four transducers 1300 in Figure 13) positioned above the subject's head. In another example, the target area may be within the subject's torso, and the alternating current electric field may be delivered to the subject's body via two pairs of transducer arrays positioned on at least one of the subject's chest, abdomen, or one or both thighs. Other arrangements of transducer arrays on the subject's body are also possible.

[0048] The exemplary apparatus 1200 shows an example system having four transducers (or “transducer arrays”) 1200A–D. Each transducer 1200A–D may include substantially flat electrode elements 1202A–D that are arranged on substrates 1204A–D and electrically and physically connected (e.g., via conductive wiring 1206A–D). The substrates 1204A–D may include, for example, cloth, foam, flexible plastic, and / or conductive medical gel. Two transducers (e.g., 1200A and 1200D) may be a first pair of transducers configured to apply an alternating electric field to a target area of ​​the subject's body. The other two transducers (e.g., 1200B and 1200C) may be a second pair of transducers similarly configured to apply an alternating electric field to a target area.

[0049] Transducers 1200A-D may be coupled to an AC voltage generator 1220, and the system may further include a controller 1210 communicatively coupled to the AC voltage generator 1220. The controller 1210 may include a computer including one or more processors 1224 and a memory 1226 accessible by one or more processors. The memory 1226 may store instructions, when executed by one or more processors, that control the AC voltage generator 1220 to induce an alternating electric field between transducer pairs 1200A-D according to one or more voltage waveforms, and / or cause the computer to perform one or more methods disclosed herein. The controller 1210 may monitor operations performed by the AC voltage generator 1220 (e.g., via a processor 1224). One or more sensors 1228 may be coupled to the controller 210 and may provide measurements or other information to the controller 1210.

[0050] Electrode elements 1202A-D can be capacitively coupled. In one example, electrode elements 1202A-D are ceramic electrode elements coupled to each other via conductive wiring 1206A-D. The ceramic electrode elements may be circular or non-circular when viewed from a direction perpendicular to their surface. In other embodiments, the electrode elements are not capacitively coupled, and there is no dielectric material (such as a ceramic or high-dielectric polymer layer) associated with the electrode elements.

[0051] The structure of transducers 1200A-D can take various forms. The transducer may be fixed to the subject's body, attached to clothing covering the subject's body, or incorporated into the clothing. The transducer may include suitable materials for attaching the transducer to the subject's body. Suitable materials may include, for example, cloth, foam, flexible plastic, and / or conductive medical gel. The transducer may be conductive or non-conductive.

[0052] A transducer may include any desired number of electrode elements. Electrode elements may be of various shapes, sizes, and materials. Any structure for implementing a transducer (or electric field generator) used in conjunction with embodiments of the present invention may be used, insofar as they allow (a) delivery of a TT electric field to the subject's body and (b) placement in the locations specified herein. In certain embodiments, at least one electrode element of a first, second, third, or fourth transducer may include at least one ceramic disc adapted to generate an alternating electric field. In non-limiting embodiments, at least one electrode element of a first, second, third, or fourth transducer may include a polymer film adapted to generate an alternating electric field.

[0053] Figure 14 shows an example of a computer device for use in embodiments of the present invention. For example, device 1400 may be a computer for implementing certain inventive techniques disclosed herein, for example, by generating transducer layouts for delivering a TT electric field to a subject. For example, the blocks in Figures 1, 5, 7, 9, and / or 11 may be executed by a computer such as device 1400. For example, device 1400 may be a controller device for applying an alternating electric field (e.g., a TT electric field) having a modulated electric field according to embodiments of this specification. Device 1400 may be used as controller 1210 in Figure 2. Device 1400 may include one or more processors 1402, memory 1403, one or more input devices, and one or more output devices 1405.

[0054] In one example, based on input 1401, one or more processors 2502 may generate control signals to control a voltage generator in order to implement an embodiment of the present disclosure. In one example, input 1401 is a user input. In another example, input 1401 may be from another computer communicating with the device 1400. Input 1401 may be received in combination with one or more input devices (not shown) of the device 1400.

[0055] Memory 1403 may be accessible by one or more processors 1402 (for example, via a link) so that one or more processors 1402 can read information to and write information to memory 1403. When executed by one or more processors 1402, memory 1403 may store instructions that implement one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0056] One or more output devices 1405 may provide information about the operation of the present invention, such as the selection of the transducer array, the voltage generated, and other operational information. The output devices 1405 may provide visualization data according to specific embodiments of the present invention.

[0057] The apparatus 1400 may be an apparatus for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, the apparatus including one or more processors (such as one or more processors 1402), and a memory accessible by one or more processors (such as memory 1403) which, when executed by one or more processors, stores instructions causing the apparatus to perform one or more methods described herein.

[0058] Memory 1403 may be a non-temporary processor-readable medium containing a set of instructions therein for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor-therapeutic electric field to a subject, the instructions, when executed by a processor (such as processor 1402), cause the processor to perform one or more methods described herein. Exemplary Embodiments

[0059] The present invention includes other exemplary embodiments ("Embodiments") as follows:

[0060] Embodiment 1. A computer implementation method for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, the computer implementation method comprising: presenting on a display one or more user-selectable icons for displaying slices of a medical image of the subject, wherein the medical image is a jointly registered MRI medical image and a CT medical image, the slices include corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image superimposed on each other, and the medical image includes voxels; presenting on the display one or more user-selectable icons for manually segmenting the slices of the medical image to obtain manually segmented slices of the medical image; presenting on the display a user-selectable icon for automatically cleaning up the manually segmented slices to obtain cleaned-up and manually segmented slices of the medical image; and presenting on the display a user-selectable icon for generating a plurality of transducer layouts for applying a tumor-treating electric field to the subject based on the cleaned-up and manually segmented slices of the medical image.

[0061] Embodiment 2. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 1, wherein the manually segmented slice is automatically cleaned up by dividing the segmentation region of the manually segmented slice into a first part and a second part based on grayscale values, the first part being identified as normal tissue and the second part being identified as abnormal tissue.

[0062] Embodiment 3. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 2, wherein the segmentation region is divided based on a threshold adjusted by a user-selectable slider of grayscale values.

[0063] Embodiment 3A. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 2, wherein the abnormal tissue includes at least one of a tumor, necrotic tissue, or a previous surgical area.

[0064] Embodiment 4. The computer implementation method of Embodiment 1, wherein the manually segmented slice is automatically cleaned up by one or more of the following: smoothing one or more edges of the segmentation region of the manually segmented slice; removing one or more discontinuous segmentation regions outside the larger segmentation region of the manually segmented slice; or removing one or more non-segmentation regions inside the segmentation region of the manually segmented slice.

[0065] Embodiment 5. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 1, wherein the one or more user-selectable icons for manually segmenting the slice include a user-selectable icon for automatically filling a region, a user-selectable icon for selecting the region without automatic filling, a user-selectable icon for erasing a segmentation, a user-selectable icon for assigning an organization type, or a user-selectable icon for expanding the boundary of the region.

[0066] Embodiment 6. A computer implementation method for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, the computer implementation method comprising: presenting slices of a medical image of the subject on a display, wherein the medical image is a jointly registered MRI medical image and a CT medical image, the slices comprising corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image superimposed on each other, and the medical image comprising voxels; receiving manual segmentation of the slices of the medical image to obtain manually segmented slices; presenting user-selectable options on the display for automatically cleaning up the manually segmented slices; receiving a selection of user-selectable options for automatically cleaning up the manually segmented slices; automatically cleaning up the manually segmented slices to obtain cleaned-up and manually segmented slices of the medical image; and generating a plurality of transducer layouts for applying a tumor-treating electric field to the subject based on the cleaned-up and manually segmented slices of the medical image.

[0067] Embodiment 6A. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 6, further comprising presenting user-adjustable icons on the display for identifying grayscale value thresholds, wherein grayscale values ​​on the first side of the threshold are designated as being in the first part, and grayscale values ​​on the second side of the threshold are designated as being in the second part.

[0068] Embodiment 7. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 6, wherein the manually segmented slice is automatically cleaned up by one or more of the following: dividing the segmentation region of the manually segmented slice into a normal tissue region and an abnormal tissue region; smoothing one or more edges of the segmentation region of the manually segmented slice; removing one or more discontinuous segmentation regions outside the larger segmentation region of the manually segmented slice; or removing one or more non-segmentation regions inside the segmentation region of the manually segmented slice.

[0069] Embodiment 8. A computer implementation method for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, comprising: presenting a user-selectable list of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) medical images of the subject on a display, wherein the MRI medical images include voxels; presenting a user-selectable list of computed tomography (CT) medical images of the subject on the display, wherein the CT medical images include voxels; presenting a user-selectable icon on the display for automatically registering the MRI medical images and the CT medical images together and obtaining the registered MRI medical images and the registered CT medical images; and presenting a user-selectable icon on the display for generating a plurality of transducer layouts for applying a tumor-treating electric field to the subject based on the registered MRI medical images and the registered CT medical images.

[0070] Embodiment 9. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 8, wherein when the MRI medical image and the CT medical image are automatically registered together, the MRI medical image and the CT medical image are aligned and linked together.

[0071] Embodiment 9A. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 8, wherein when the MRI medical image and the CT medical image are automatically registered together, the CT medical image is registered relative to the MRI medical image.

[0072] Embodiment 10. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 8, further comprising presenting on the display user-selectable icons for selectively changing the opacity between the corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the corresponding slices of the CT medical image when the corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the corresponding slices of the CT medical image are superimposed on each other.

[0073] Embodiment 11. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 10, wherein the user-selectable icon for selectively changing the opacity is a slider icon having a first end and a second end, and when the first end of the slider icon is selected, only the corresponding slice of the MRI medical image is displayed, and when the second end of the slider icon is selected, only the corresponding slice of the CT medical image is displayed.

[0074] Embodiment 12. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 8, further comprising presenting user-selectable icons on the display for simultaneously presenting front, side, and top views of corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image, wherein the corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image are superimposed on each other.

[0075] Embodiment 13. A computer implementation method according to Embodiment 8, comprising: presenting on the display user-selectable icons for selectively scaling one or more of the front view, side view, and top view of corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image, wherein the corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image are superimposed on each other; and presenting on the display one or more user-selectable icons for selectively displaying one of the front view, side view, and top view of corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image, wherein the corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image are superimposed on each other.

[0076] Embodiment 14. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 8, further comprising manually registering the MRI medical image and the CT medical image together, and presenting one or more user-selectable icons on the display in order to obtain the registered MRI medical image and the registered CT medical image.

[0077] Embodiment 14A. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 8, wherein the user-selectable list of MRI medical images and the user-selectable list of CT medical images are simultaneously presented on the display.

[0078] Embodiment 15. A computer implementation method for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, the computer implementation method comprising: storing a plurality of medical images of the subject in memory, wherein the medical images include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) medical images and computed tomography (CT) medical images, and the medical images include voxels; presenting a user-selectable option on a display for automatically registering the MRI medical images and the CT medical images together; receiving a selection of the user-selectable option for automatically registering the MRI medical images and the CT medical images together; automatically registering the MRI medical images and the CT medical images together without the user having to manually register the medical images to obtain the registered MRI medical images and the registered CT medical images; and generating a plurality of transducer layouts for applying a tumor-treating electric field to the subject based on the registered MRI medical images and the registered CT medical images.

[0079] Embodiment 16. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 15, wherein the automatic registration of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image together includes aligning and linking the MRI medical image and the CT medical image together.

[0080] Embodiment 16A. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 15, further comprising displaying the corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image on the display before registration, and displaying the registered MRI medical image and the corresponding slices of the registered CT medical image on the display.

[0081] Embodiment 17. A computer implementation method for generating at least one transducer layout for providing a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, comprising: displaying one or more user-selectable icons on a display for displaying slices of a medical image of the subject, wherein the medical image is a jointly registered MRI medical image and a CT medical image, the slices include corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image superimposed on each other, and the medical image includes voxels; automatically segmenting a plurality of slices of the medical image to obtain automatically segmented slices of the medical image, and presenting user-selectable icons on the display for generating a plurality of transducer layouts for applying a tumor-treating electric field to the subject based on the automatically segmented slices of the medical image.

[0082] Embodiment 18. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 17, wherein the automatically segmented slices are automatically segmented by interpolating between manually segmented slices of the medical image.

[0083] Embodiment 19. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 17, wherein the automatically segmented slices of the medical image are located between the manually segmented slices of the medical image, the automatically segmented slices are in the same direction as the manually segmented slices, and the automatically segmented slices are automatically segmented based on the manually segmented slices.

[0084] Embodiment 19A. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 19, wherein the number of automatically segmented slices between manually segmented slice pairs is 2 to 20.

[0085] Embodiment 19B. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 19, wherein the number of automatically segmented slices between pairs of manually segmented slices is 2 to 5.

[0086] Embodiment 20. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 17, further comprising presenting one or more user-selectable icons on the display for obtaining manually segmented slices of the medical image, and the plurality of transducer layouts for applying a tumor treatment electric field to the subject, further based on the manually segmented slices of the medical image.

[0087] Embodiment 21. Presenting slices of a medical image of the subject on a display, wherein the medical image is a jointly registered MRI medical image and a CT medical image, the slice includes corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image superimposed on each other, and the medical image includes voxels, the presenting, receiving a first manual segmentation of a first slice of the medical image, and receiving a second manual segmentation of a second slice of the medical image, wherein the first slice and the second slice are in the same direction and separated by a plurality of slices of the medical image, the receiving, and the medical image A computer implementation method comprising: presenting user-selectable options on the display for automatically segmenting the medical image; receiving a selection of user-selectable options for automatically segmenting the medical image; automatically segmenting the plurality of slices between the first slice and the second slice based on the first manual segmentation and the second manual segmentation to obtain a segmented medical image; and generating a plurality of transducer layouts for applying a tumor treatment electric field to the subject based on the segmented medical image.

[0088] Embodiment 22. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 21, wherein the plurality of slices are automatically segmented by interpolating between the first slice and the second slice.

[0089] Embodiment 23. A computer implementation method for generating at least one transducer layout for providing a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, the computer implementation method comprising: presenting a user-rotatable three-dimensional view of the subject on a display, wherein the three-dimensional view of the subject is associated with a three-dimensional model of the subject, the three-dimensional model of the subject is based on jointly registered MRI and CT medical images, and the three-dimensional model includes voxels to which tissue type and associated conductivity are assigned; presenting user-selectable icons on the display for identifying one or more avoidance regions on the three-dimensional view of the subject to obtain one or more identified avoidance regions on the three-dimensional view of the subject, wherein the avoidance regions identify areas on the subject to avoid the arrangement of at least a portion of the transducer array; and presenting user-selectable icons on the display for generating a plurality of transducer layouts for applying a tumor-treating electric field to the subject based on the one or more identified avoidance regions on the three-dimensional view of the subject.

[0090] Embodiment 24. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 23, further comprising presenting on the display at least one identified avoidance area on the three-dimensional view of the subject.

[0091] Embodiment 25. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 23, further comprising presenting on the display at least one of a user-selectable icon for adjusting the size of the avoidance area or a user-selectable icon for selecting the shape of the avoidance area.

[0092] Embodiment 25A. The computer mounting method according to Embodiment 25, wherein the size of the avoidance area is adjustable between approximately 1 mm and approximately 15 mm.

[0093] Embodiment 25B. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 23, wherein the shape of at least one avoidance area is substantially circular.

[0094] Embodiment 26. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 23, further comprising presenting on the display a user-selectable icon for receiving the shape of at least one avoidance area manually drawn by the user.

[0095] Embodiment 27. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 23, further comprising presenting on the display a first dose of a tumor-treating electric field to be delivered to a subject for a first transducer layout among the plurality of transducer layouts, wherein the first transducer layout avoids all of the identified avoidance regions; and a second dose of a tumor-treating electric field to be delivered to a subject for a second transducer layout among the plurality of transducer layouts, wherein the second transducer layout is located over at least one of the identified avoidance regions.

[0096] Embodiment 28. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 23, wherein the first transducer layout of the plurality of transducer layouts avoids the identified avoidance area, and the first transducer layout comprises one or more electrode elements, none of which are located on any of the identified avoidance areas.

[0097] Embodiment 29. The computer mounting method according to Embodiment 23, wherein the first transducer layout of the plurality of transducer layouts avoids the identified avoidance area, and the first transducer layout includes adhesive portions for attaching the first transducer layout to a subject, and none of the adhesive portions are located on any of the identified avoidance areas.

[0098] Embodiment 30. A computer implementation method for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, the computer implementation method comprising: presenting a user-rotatable three-dimensional profile of the subject on a display, wherein the three-dimensional profile of the subject is associated with the three-dimensional model of the subject, the three-dimensional model of the subject is based on jointly registered MRI and CT medical images, and the three-dimensional model includes voxels to which tissue type and associated conductivity are assigned; receiving the identification of one or more avoid areas on the three-dimensional profile of the subject to obtain one or more identified avoid areas on the three-dimensional profile of the subject, wherein the avoid areas identify areas on the subject to avoid the arrangement of at least a portion of a transducer array; and generating a plurality of transducer layouts for applying a tumor-treating electric field to the subject based on the one or more identified avoid areas on the three-dimensional profile of the subject.

[0099] Embodiment 31. The computer implementation method according to Embodiment 30, further comprising adjusting the size or shape of at least one avoidance region.

[0100] Embodiment 32. A computer implementation method for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor treatment electric field to a subject, comprising: presenting a user-selectable icon on the display for automatically registering an MRI medical image and a CT medical image together to obtain a registered MRI medical image and a registered CT medical image; presenting a user-selectable icon on the display for automatically cleaning up a segmented slice to obtain a cleaned-up and segmented slice of the medical image; and presenting a user-selectable icon on the display for automatically segmenting a plurality of slices to obtain a segmented slice of the medical image. A computer implementation method comprising the steps of presenting on a display user-selectable icons on the display for identifying one or more regions on a three-dimensional view of the subject to avoid the arrangement of at least a portion of the transducer array in order to obtain one or more identified avoidance regions; and presenting on the display user-selectable icons for generating a plurality of transducer layouts for applying a tumor treatment electric field to the subject based on the registered MRI medical image and the registered CT medical image, the cleaned and segmented slices, the segmented slices, and the one or more identified avoidance regions.

[0101] Embodiment 33. A computer implementation method for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor therapeutic electric field to a subject, comprising: receiving a user-selectable option selection for automatically registering an MRI medical image and a CT medical image together; automatically registering the MRI medical image and the CT medical image together without the user having to manually register the medical image in order to obtain the registered medical image; receiving manual segmentation of multiple slices of the registered medical image to obtain manually segmented slices; receiving a user-selectable option selection for automatically cleaning up the manually segmented slices; cleaning up the registered medical image and automatically cleaning up the manually segmented slices to obtain manually segmented slices; and automatically segmenting multiple slices of the registered medical image. A computer implementation method comprising: receiving a selection of user-selectable options for performing a procedure, wherein the plurality of slices are between a manually segmented first slice and a manually segmented second slice; automatically segmenting the plurality of slices of the registered medical image to obtain automatically segmented slices of the medical image; receiving the identification of a plurality of regions on a three-dimensional view of the subject to avoid the arrangement of at least a portion of the transducer array to obtain identified avoidance regions; and generating a plurality of transducer layouts for applying a tumor-treating electric field to the subject based on the registered medical image, the manually segmented slice, the cleaned-up and manually segmented slice, the automatically segmented slice, and the identified avoidance regions.

[0102] Embodiment 34. An apparatus for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, comprising one or more processors, a memory accessible by the one or more processors, which, when executed by the one or more processors, stores instructions causing the apparatus to perform one or more methods of Embodiments 1, 6, 8, 15, 17, 21, 23, 30, 32, or 33, and further comprising a display.

[0103] Embodiment 35. A non-temporary processor-readable medium comprising a set of instructions for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, wherein, when executed by a processor, the instructions cause the processor to perform one or more methods of Embodiments 1, 6, 8, 15, 17, 21, 23, 30, 32, or 33.

[0104] Optionally, in each embodiment described herein, the voltage generating component supplies the transducer with an AC waveform suitable for providing TT electric field therapy to the subject's body at a frequency in the range of approximately 50 kHz to approximately 1 MHz.

[0105] Embodiments described in any heading or portion of this disclosure may be combined with embodiments described in the same heading or other portions of this disclosure, unless otherwise stated herein or unless the context clearly contradicts the description. For example, an embodiment described in dependent claim form to a given embodiment (e.g., a given embodiment described in independent claim form) may be combined with other embodiments (described in independent claim form or dependent claim form).

[0106] Numerous modifications, changes, and alterations are possible to the embodiments described without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. The invention is not limited to the embodiments described and is intended to have the entire scope as defined by the following claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0107] 202 buttons 204 Series Add Button 206 Series 210 Controller 302 Automatic Matching Button 304 Complete button 402 Rendering 404 Structure tab 406 Tools tab 408 Opacity slider 410 Front view 412 Side View 414 Top View 416 TAL Calculation Button 420 icons 422 icons 602 Tools tab 604 Dropdown 605 Structure tab 606 Brush 608 Interpolation Tools 802 Option 804 Icons 806 Icons 808 Icons 810 icons 812 icons 814 Icons 1002 Rendering 1004 Avoidance Area Tool 1006 Avoidance area 1008 Avoidance area 1010 Avoidance area 1012 icons 1014 Window 1200 equipment 1200A~D Transducer (or "Transducer Array") 1202A~D Electrode element 1204A~D board 1206A~D Conductive wiring 1210 Controller 1220 AC Voltage Generator 1224 processors 1226 memory 1228 Sensor 1300 transducer 1400 equipment 1401 input 1402 Processor 1403 memory 1405 Output Device

Claims

1. A computer implementation method for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, The presenting of one or more user-selectable icons on the display for displaying slices of medical images of the subject, wherein the medical images are jointly registered magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) medical images and computed tomography (CT) medical images, the slices include corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image superimposed on each other, and the medical images include voxels. To obtain manually segmented slices of the medical image, one or more user-selectable icons are displayed on the display for manually segmenting the slices of the medical image. To obtain the cleaned-up and manually segmented slices of the medical image, a user-selectable icon for automatically cleaning up the manually segmented slices is displayed on the display. The method, comprising presenting on the display user-selectable icons for generating a plurality of transducer layouts for applying a tumor-treating electric field to the subject based on the cleaned and manually segmented slices of the medical image.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the segmentation region of the manually segmented slice is divided into a first part and a second part based on grayscale values, thereby automatically cleaning up the manually segmented slice, the first part being identified as normal tissue and the second part being identified as abnormal tissue.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein the segmentation region is divided based on a threshold adjusted by a user-selectable slider of grayscale values.

4. The manually segmented slices are Smoothing one or more edges of the segmented region of the manually segmented slice, Removing one or more discontinuous segmentation regions outside the larger segmentation region of the manually segmented slice, or The method according to claim 1, wherein the slice is automatically cleaned up by one or more of the following: removing one or more non-segmented regions inside the segmented regions of the manually segmented slice.

5. The manually segmented slices are Removing one or more discontinuous segmentation regions outside the larger segmentation region of the manually segmented slice, The method according to claim 1, wherein the slice is automatically cleaned up by removing one or more non-segmented regions inside the segmented regions of the manually segmented slice.

6. The manually segmented slices are The method according to claim 5, wherein the segmented region of the manually segmented slice is further automatically cleaned up by dividing it into a first part and a second part based on grayscale values, with the first part being identified as normal tissue and the second part as abnormal tissue.

7. The one or more user-selectable icons for manually segmenting the slice are: User-selectable icons for automatically filling areas. A user-selectable icon for selecting the area without automatic filling, A user-selectable icon to remove segmentation. A user-selectable icon for assigning an organization type, or The method according to claim 1, further comprising a user-selectable icon for expanding the boundary of the said region.

8. A non-transient processor-readable medium comprising a set of instructions for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, wherein, when executed by a processor, the instructions cause the processor to perform the method according to claim 1.

9. An apparatus for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, comprising one or more processors, a display, and a memory accessible by the one or more processors, which, when executed by the one or more processors, The presenting of one or more user-selectable icons on the display for displaying slices of medical images of the subject, wherein the medical images are jointly registered magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) medical images and computed tomography (CT) medical images, the slices include corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image superimposed on each other, and the medical images include voxels. To obtain manually segmented slices of the medical image, one or more user-selectable icons are displayed on the display for manually segmenting the slices of the medical image. To obtain the cleaned-up and manually segmented slices of the medical image, a user-selectable icon for automatically cleaning up the manually segmented slices is displayed on the display. The apparatus includes a memory that stores instructions causing the apparatus to perform a method including presenting on the display a plurality of transducer layouts for applying a tumor-treating electric field to the subject based on the cleaned and manually segmented slices of the medical image.

10. A computer implementation method for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, The presenting of slices of the subject's medical images on a display, wherein the medical images are jointly registered magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) medical images and computed tomography (CT) medical images, the slices include corresponding slices of the MRI medical image and the CT medical image superimposed on each other, and the medical images include voxels. The process involves receiving the manual segmentation of the slices of the medical image and obtaining the manually segmented slices. The display presents user-selectable options for automatically cleaning up the manually segmented slices, The system receives user-selectable options for automatically cleaning up the manually segmented slices, To obtain the cleaned-up and manually segmented slices of the aforementioned medical image, the manually segmented slices are automatically cleaned up. A computer implementation method comprising generating a plurality of transducer layouts for applying a tumor-treating electric field to the subject based on cleaned and manually segmented slices of the medical image.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the segmentation region of the manually segmented slice is divided into a first part and a second part based on grayscale values, thereby automatically cleaning up the manually segmented slice, the first part being identified as normal tissue and the second part being identified as abnormal tissue.

12. The method according to claim 11, further comprising presenting user-adjustable icons on the display for identifying thresholds of grayscale values, wherein grayscale values ​​on the first side of the threshold are designated as being in the first portion, and grayscale values ​​on the second side of the threshold are designated as being in the second portion.

13. The manually segmented slices are Dividing the segmented region of the manually segmented slice into a normal tissue region and an abnormal tissue region, Smoothing one or more edges of the segmented region of the manually segmented slice, Removing one or more discontinuous segmentation regions outside the larger segmentation region of the manually segmented slice, or The method according to claim 10, wherein the slice is automatically cleaned up by removing one or more non-segmented regions inside the segmented regions of the manually segmented slice.

14. A non-transient processor-readable medium comprising a set of instructions for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, wherein, when executed by a processor, the instructions cause the processor to perform the method according to claim 10.

15. An apparatus for generating at least one transducer layout for delivering a tumor-treating electric field to a subject, comprising one or more processors, a memory accessible by the one or more processors, the memory storing instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, causing the apparatus to perform the method according to claim 10, and further comprising a display.

Images