3D Transducer Array Placement Guide for TTFields Tumor Targeting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for optimizing the placement of transducer arrays for Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) therapy lack precision, leading to suboptimal electric field distribution and intensity in tumors, which can reduce the efficacy of the treatment.
Innovation Solution
The development of a method and apparatus that utilize a 3D transducer array placement map to generate a contoured shell with engagement and guide portions. This shell is designed to fit a portion of the body, engage landmarks, and guide the placement of transducer arrays to achieve a desired electric field strength in tumors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If current methods for optimizing transducer array placement are used, then the placement process is simple, but the electric field distribution and intensity in tumors are suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by creating a 3D model of the patient's anatomy and determining optimal transducer array placement positions before actual placement. The 3D transducer array placement map is generated in advance, showing exact positions and orientations needed to achieve desired electric field strength in the tumor, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustments during placement.
Solution Approach 2:
A contoured shell serves as an intermediary physical guide that translates digital 3D placement information into tangible placement assistance. The shell incorporates engagement portions that attach to anatomical landmarks and guide portions that physically direct transducer array positioning, bridging the gap between computational optimization and physical placement.
2Reliability
If precise transducer array placement is achieved using 3D mapping and contoured shell, then electric field strength in tumors is optimized, but the complexity of the placement system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The placement system is segmented into distinct functional modules: (1) 3D model generation from imaging data, (2) optimal placement calculation software, (3) contoured shell physical guide, (4) engagement portions for landmark attachment, and (5) guide portions for array positioning. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system by breaking down the complex placement task into manageable steps.
3Manufacturing precision
If standard transducer array placement methods are used, then the placement process is quick, but the electric field distribution is suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by creating a 3D model of the patient's anatomy and determining optimal transducer array placement positions before actual placement. The 3D transducer array placement map is generated in advance, showing exact positions and orientations needed to achieve desired electric field strength in the tumor, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustments during placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical measurement and adjustment tools with a digitally-driven approach. Instead of using calipers, protractors, and iterative manual positioning, the system uses 3D imaging software to calculate optimal positions and a contoured shell to physically guide placement, reducing both time and mechanical complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatuses are described for guiding placement of transducer arrays on a patient.