Diagnosis and Treatment of Cancer Using Thermal Therapies: Minimal and Non-Invasive Techniques

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, according to WHO. Currently the primary treatments available for it, that include chemotherapy and radiotherapy, have several side-effects. Much new research is being done in its diagnosis and treatment with less invasive techniques. Artificial intelligence, bioimpedance, thermal images and nanomaterials have been studied to provide early diagnosis. New treatments based on the generation of microwaves, radiofrequency or ultrasound have been proposed in the last couple of decades.

Although thermotherapies have proved to be efficient, for it to be considered as a primary treatment, it needs to overcome some hurdles. One of the main challenges is to ensure applicators that point the electromagnetic or the mechanical waves at a tissue, don't affect the surrounding healthy tissues. In some cases, nanoparticles have also been designed to achieve better focus. The design of new applicators can be made by computational models based on methods such as the finite element. However, to efficiently predict the applicator performance, it is important to that dielectric, thermal and acoustic properties (tissue characterization) are included in the models. Not only healthy tissue but also tumors must be characterized. A powerful tool called patient specific treatment planning can be developed to implement a safety treatment which consists of a 3D patient model based on medical images. Moreover, tissue properties as well as the applicator must be defined. Parameters such as temperature increase, and heat pattern must be evaluated to ensure patient safety and treatment success.

This book discusses the latest trends in the subject, such as artificial intelligence, thermal images, bioimpedance to diagnose cancer, and novel treatment techniques. Moreover, the role of thermal therapy as a new cancer treatment capable of reducing side effects in patients has been reviewed. Key topics from the engineering and medical point of view to implement a successful treatment (hyperthermia/ablation) by using radiofrequency, microwaves, ultrasound, or nanoparticles (magneto hyperthermia) are addressed. The target audience includes biomedical, electrical, and computational engineering, health professionals, medical doctors, practitioners, and students.