A finite element study of the effects of ground electrode position on radio frequency ablation lesions

The effect of the ground patch location on lesions caused by radio frequency (RF) ablation is investigated. Computer simulations are performed to compare the lesion dimensions and shape generated by RF ablation for different locations of the ground patch. Results indicate a lesion volume of 1.57 cm/sup 3/ for the case when the tissue is located between the catheter tip and the ground electrode, and a 0.1 cm/sup 3/ lesion when the ground patch is located in the direction opposite to the desired location of the lesion. The proper choice of the ground electrode position can increase the safety and efficacy of the RF ablation procedure.