Analysis and synthesis of multiple-focus phased array heating patterns through the rib cage: a simulation model

A computationally efficient hybrid ray-physical optics model is presented for the analysis and synthesis of multiple-focus ultrasound heating patterns through the human rib cage. In particular, a ray method is used to propagate the ultrasound fields from the source to the frontal plane of the rib cage. The physical optics integration method is then employed to obtain the field intensity pattern inside the rib cage. The solution of the matrix system is carried out by using the pseudo inverse technique to synthesize the desired heating pattern. This simulation model allows for the design and optimization of large-aperture phased array applicator systems for noninvasive ablative thermal surgery in the heart and the liver through the rib cage. This technology is applied for ablating cancerous malignant tissue in the liver and the treatment of life threatening cardiac arrhythmias.