3D Transducer Array Placement Guides for TTFields Tumor Targeting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for optimizing the placement of transducer arrays for Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) therapy are often reliant on 'rule of thumb' techniques, which may not maximize electric field intensity in the diseased region, leading to suboptimal treatment efficacy.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using a 3D transducer array placement map and a contoured shell with engagement and guide portions to precisely position transducer arrays on the body, ensuring a desired electric field strength is achieved at the tumor site, guided by landmarks and customizable physical apparatuses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If rule of thumb techniques are used for transducer array placement, then the placement process is simple and quick, but the electric field intensity in the diseased region is not maximized
Solution Approach 1:
A custom-fitted placement apparatus is manufactured before treatment based on patient-specific 3D imaging data. This apparatus includes pre-determined guide features that automatically position transducer arrays at optimal locations when the apparatus is applied to the patient's body, eliminating the need for complex manual measurement and placement procedures during treatment.
Solution Approach 2:
A custom-fitted placement apparatus serves as an intermediary tool between the patient's body and the transducer arrays. This apparatus includes guide features such as guide holes, guide slots, or guide surfaces that mediate the positioning process, ensuring transducer arrays are placed at precisely calculated optimal positions without requiring complex manual measurement procedures.
2Manufacturing precision
If custom-fitted placement apparatus is used, then the electric field strength at the tumor site is optimized, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The custom-fitted placement apparatus is constructed as a flexible shell or wrap that conforms to the patient's body surface. This shell contains embedded guide features and can be easily applied and removed, reducing structural complexity while maintaining precise positioning capabilities. The flexibility allows adaptation to various body shapes without requiring complex rigid structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The placement apparatus is divided into multiple segments or components that can be separately manufactured and assembled. Each segment contains specific guide features for particular transducer arrays, allowing modular manufacturing and simplifying production while achieving comprehensive coverage and precise positioning for multiple arrays.
3Productivity
If manual measurement and calculation methods are used, then the equipment and time requirements are minimal, but the placement accuracy and treatment efficacy are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
All complex measurements, calculations, and optimization computations are performed in advance during the custom apparatus manufacturing process. The optimal transducer array positions are pre-determined using patient-specific 3D imaging data and computational models, with results encoded into the physical structure of the placement apparatus. During actual treatment, clinicians simply apply the apparatus and place arrays according to guide features, achieving high precision without time-consuming manual calculations.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatuses are described for guiding placement of transducer arrays on a patient.