Flexible Ablation Device with Single Applicator Structure that Supports both Radiofrequency and Microwave Energy Delivery

This paper describes a novel flexible prototype device capable of both RF and microwave delivery for coagulation and ablation. The concept offers additional freedom to tailor the ablation profile in addition to key multimodality benefits (adjustable profile, thermal management, local current path, larger ablation). Finite element analysis, the prototype device and ex-vivo testing is presented. Good agreement was achieved between simulated and ex-vivo ablation profiles along with successful validation of the antenna design capable of delivering both RF and microwave energy. To the best of the authors knowledge, this is the first ablation antenna structure reported that combines the delivery of RF and microwave energy to produce optimal ablation volumes.