Interstitial hyperthermia using electrically heated catheters

A description is given of a hyperthermia method that uses resistively heated interstitial catheters and conductive heat transfer for treatment of malignant brain tumors. As opposed to radiant heat sources such as ultrasound or microwave radiation, this system utilizes simple direct conversion of electrical energy to heat via resistive elements placed in implantable catheters. Heat transfer occurs via conduction and blood convection. Preliminary results indicate that tissue thermal profiles surrounding the catheters are predictable, given a fixed geometry, and feasible for hyperthermia treatment of tumors.<>