Mathematical modeling and simulation of vaporization during laser induced interstitial thermotherapy (LITT) in breast cancer tumor tissue

Abstract

Laser-Induced Thermotherapy (LITT) is an emerging minimally invasive technique for the treatment of solid tumors, including those in breast tissue. While thermal injury and tumor ablation are primary goals, the vaporization of tissue due to high-intensity laser exposure remains an often-neglected phenomenon. This study presents a mathematical model to investigate tissue vaporization during LITT specifically in breast cancer tumor tissue. Building upon established bioheat transfer and Arrhenius damage frameworks, we incorporate effective specific heat (ESH) and enthalpy-based methods to model phase transitions around 100 °C. Breast tissue parameters such as thermal conductivity, water content, perfusion rate, and optical absorption are used to accurately simulate energy deposition and heat propagation. Our simulations provide spatial and temporal patterns of temperature distribution, damage accumulation, and vaporized volume. The model highlights the importance of considering vaporization effects in LITT planning for breast cancer to enhance therapeutic precision and avoid unintended collateral damage.