Radiofrequency Antenna Helmet Array for Thermal Magnetic Resonance of Brain Tumours at 297 MHz

Thermal magnetic resonance (Thermal MR) uses an RF-applicator to add a thermal intervention dimension to a diagnostic imaging device. Optimizing the performance of RF applicator configurations can eventually improve the performance of Themal MR. Recognizing this opportunity this work examines the feasibility of multi-channel RF applicators using broadband Self-Grounded Bow-Tie (SGBT) antenna building blocks. The focus is on enhancing focal RF power deposition in a target volume by using a multi-channel helmet RF array configuration versus conventional annular RF arrays. A 10-channel helmet RF applicator was designed for Thermal MR, evaluated in EMF simulations and benchmarked against an annular RF array using the same number of RF-elements. Our phantom studies demonstrate that the helmet RF applicator affords an ~10%- 30% improvement in maximum SAR
10g
in the TV over the conventional annular RF array. Our preliminary findings obtained for the human head voxel model Duke show improved target coverage of high SAR
10g
for the helmet RF applicator.