A Hyperthermia System Using a New Type of Inductive Applicator

A hyperthermia system working at frequencies around 150 MHz is described. It is useful for a penetration depth of 3-4 cm in tumor and muscle tissue. The system includes a new type of inductive applicator giving a beam-like distribution in the tissue, a controllable surface cooling system, and multipoint temperature measurements. A phase I clinical study shows the efficacy of the system, but also the importance of temperature measurements at many points since, in general, the temperature gradients are large.