Multi-Directional RF Field Control for Patient-Specific Tumor Therapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electric field-based cancer therapy methods do not account for individual patient variability, such as anatomical structure, tumor location, required number of field directions, strength of the electric field in each direction, or time-dependent effects, making it difficult to achieve optimized, patient-specific treatment.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that optimizes high-frequency power application by considering the total number of electrode pairs, position and orientation of each electrode pair, intensity of power applied, and sequence of power application, using a plurality of electrode pairs to apply electric fields in multiple directions to a region of interest, with controlled power application time and intensity for each electrode pair.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electric field therapy is applied using conventional methods, then the treatment can be administered, but it cannot be optimized for individual patient variability such as anatomical structure, tumor location, and required number of field directions
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the number of electrode pairs, their positions, orientations, power intensities, and application sequences based on patient-specific parameters. The controller modifies these parameters in real-time to optimize treatment effectiveness for each individual patient's anatomical structure and tumor characteristics, transforming a static treatment protocol into a dynamic, adaptive process.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention systematically varies multiple parameters including the number of electrode pairs (2-8), power intensity (0.1-10 V/cm), application time (1-12 hours), and sequence ordering to create optimized treatment regimens. By changing these parameters based on patient-specific factors such as tumor location and anatomical constraints, the system achieves personalized treatment optimization.
2Reliability
If multiple electrode pairs are used to apply electric fields in multiple directions, then the dielectrophoretic effect is enhanced, but the system complexity and control difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The treatment system divides the electric field application into discrete segments using multiple independent electrode pairs, each capable of applying fields in specific directions. The controller manages each electrode pair as an independent unit with its own power intensity and timing parameters, allowing segmented control that simplifies the management of complex multi-directional field application while maintaining enhanced therapeutic efficacy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic alternation between different electrode pair configurations and field directions. The controller sequentially activates different electrode pairs in a predetermined sequence, creating periodic changes in field direction and intensity. This periodic action enables comprehensive coverage of multiple directions while providing a manageable, systematic control approach that reduces operational complexity.
3Reliability
If power is applied sequentially to multiple electrode pairs, then the total treatment time is extended, but the optimization of treatment effectiveness is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The controller pre-determines the optimal sequence and timing for activating different electrode pairs based on patient-specific parameters and predetermined treatment protocols. By planning and preparing the treatment sequence in advance, the system maximizes treatment effectiveness while minimizing unnecessary delays. The preliminary configuration of electrode activation patterns ensures that power application follows an optimized timeline that balances efficacy with reasonable treatment duration.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Maximizes the inhibition of cancer cell proliferation by integrating factors like the number of electric field directions, application time, and field intensity, enhancing the dielectrophoretic effect and apoptosis induction.
Implementation Method 1
The primary mechanism believed to be responsible for inhibiting cancer cell division during electric field therapy is dielectrophoresis. Dielectrophoresis refers to the force experienced by particles exposed to a non-uniform electric field, depending on the voltage and frequency of the field, as well as the permittivity and conductivity of the surrounding medium.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application relates to a system and method configured to maximize cell apoptosis and thereby optimize the effect of high-frequency electric field application. The electric field direction-based high-frequency power application optimization system includes a high-frequency power application system composed of a plurality of electrode pairs capable of applying electric fields in two or more directions to a region of interest (ROI) in a target subject. The system may include: an electrode pair-specific power application time setting unit for determining the duration of power application for each electrode pair, an electrode pair-specific power intensity setting unit for determining the power intensity to be applied to each electrode pair, and a power application sequence setting unit for determining the sequence in which power is applied to the respective electrode pairs.