SBIR-STTR Award

The efficacy of hyperthermia as a treatment modality for cancer is dependent upon the ability to heat the entire tumor to 42 degrees C or greater. Currently available commercial equipment does not provide this capability for deepseated tumors. The investigation, development, and evaluation of phased array microwave antenna systems for noninvasively inducing hyperthermia at depths ranging from 5 to 10 cm is being proposed.In Phase I, the feasibility of enhanced deep localized heating and microwave beam steering by phase control will be demonstrated. A microwave patch antenna will be developed for use as array elements in cylindrical, hemispherical, and flat nonformal phased array applicators.Phase II will utilize the results of Phase I to provide detailed specifications for the design and construction of a hyperthermia system for investigational evaluation in animals and in humans. This evaluation will provide the data which would be necessary for commercial exploitation of these antenna systems.National Cancer Institute (NCI)

Phased-array systems have been tested to indicate that the SAR pattern can be altered by a proper combination of phase and amplitude controls of the incident electromagnetic waves. Microstrip patch radiators will be made by Cheung Laboratories, Inc. Under a subcontract to the City of Hope National Medical Center, dosimetry studies and software development will be conducted for a phased-array integrated system to be developed by Cheung Laboratories, Inc.Microstrip applicators of single- and multiplepatch arrangements will be tested on phantoms made of simulated brain, fat, muscle, and bone tissue in realistic shapes of the human head, neck, extremities, chest, and abdomen. Four frequencies will be used: 13.56, 300, 433, and 915 MHz. SAR patterns will be measured using a digital thermographic system. The power-generating system will be automated to control the phase and amplitude of the applied power to each applicator to achieve desired heating patterns. Software will be integrated into the final system for clinical applications.National Cancer Institute (NCI)