Preclinical prototype validation and characterization of a thermobrachytherapy system for interstitial hyperthermia and high-dose-rate brachytherapy

Background and purpose

Integrating simultaneous interstitial hyperthermia in high-dose-rate brachytherapy treatments (HDR-BT) is expected to lead to enhanced therapeutic effect. However, there is currently no device available for such an integration. In this study, we presented and validated the thermobrachytherapy (TBT) preclinical prototype system that is able to seamlessly integrate into the HDR-BT workflow.

Materials and methods

The TBT system consisted of an advanced radiofrequency power delivery and control system, dual-function interstitial applicators, and integrated connection and impedance matching system. The efficiency and minimum heating ability of the system was calculated performing calorimetric experiments. The effective-heating-length and heating pattern was evaluated using single-applicator split phantom experiments. The heating independence between applicators, the ability of the system to adaptable and predictable temperature steering was evaluated using multi-applicator split phantom experiments.

Results

The system satisfied interstitial hyperthermia requirements. It demonstrated 50 % efficiency and ability to reach 6 °C temperature increase in 6 min. Effective-heating-length of the applicator was 43.7 mm, following the initial design. Heating pattern interference between applicators was lower than recommended. The system showed its ability to generate diverse heating patterns by adjusting the phase and amplitude settings of each electrode, aligning well with simulations (minimum agreement of 88 %).

Conclusions

The TBT preclinical prototype system complied with IHT requirements, and agreed well with design criteria and simulations, hence performing as expected. The preclinical prototype TBT system can now be scaled to an in-vivo validation prototype, including an adaptable impedance matching solution, appropriate number of channels, and ensuring biocompatibility and regulatory compliance.