Experimental Assessment of a Smart Skin for Temperature Monitoring During Superficial Microwave Hyperthermia

Abstract

This paper presents the thermal validation of a Radio-Thermal Monitoring Sheet (R-TMS) designed for monitoring microwave hyperthermia treatments. The R-TMS consists of a grid of 77 passive Ultra High Frequency (UHF) Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) temperature sensors, which are wirelessly interrogated by an external reader integrated within the hyperthermia system, sharing the same antenna. The system was designed to ensure minimal interference with the therapeutic electromagnetic field while providing real-time feedback on skin temperature during the therapy. Laboratory assessments demonstrated the system's robustness against high-power electromagnetic fields, showing no significant self-heating or signal degradation. Pre-clinical tests confirmed that the R-TMS does not compromise treatment effectiveness or patient safety, with temperature monitoring results closely matching those obtained from conventional thermocouple-based methods. The proposed system offers a promising low-cost, wireless alternative for enhancing the safety and efficacy of superficial hyperthermia treatments.