MR thermometry in hyperthermia: imaging for precise therapy monitoring with the novel Universal Arch applicator

Abstract

Maximizing the benefits of hyperthermia, as adjuvant to treatment of cancer by radiotherapy and chemotherapy, requires precise monitoring and maintain the temperature in the target region in the narrow range of 41-43°C. Invasive temperature probes provide spatially limited information and can be associated with potential risks such as haemorrhages, infections, and acute side effects. Magnetic resonance (MR) temperature imaging was developed to overcome these treatment side effects allowing a non-invasive way to monitor temperature in the full treatment volume. To take advantage of this, several MR compatible radiofrequency hyperthermia devices for clinical use have been developed. In this work, we evaluate the capabilities of the state of the art Pyrexar BSD2000-3D Universal Arch MR-compatible applicator.