Antenna: the critical element in successful medical technology

Developments in the application of microwave technology to the solution of medical problems, particularly the detection and treatment of cancer, are discussed. In the development of cancer, microwave hyperthermia has been accepted as an adjunct procedure to radiation therapy in the treatment of superficial lesions. While not so widely reported, the use of microwave radiometry as a noninvasive passive technique for early detection of cancer appears very promising. Wider acceptance of these methods, however, awaits fundamental improvements in the ability to focus energy at depth in human tissue. Further development in the areas of antennas and antenna arrays is required if microwave technology is to provide a practical solution to the detection and treatment of cancer.<>