Model development for RF ablation using bipolar forceps in cancer therapy

The understanding of temperature and tissue damage distribution during ablation process is essential in optimal therapy planning. Finite element method is utilized in this research to develop a multiphysical model that simulates a time-dependent radiofrequency ablation process using bipolar forceps. Thermal and electrical properties of the tissue are simulated as temperature-dependent functions. Results from model simulation are also compared to an experimental study conducted using ex-vivo porcine liver. It is noticeable that the developed model overestimates the size of lesions resulted from experimental ablation, with 19.9% difference in axial direction and 37.9% difference in lateral direction. This model could be regarded as a reference for cancer therapy planning, even though subjective interpretation would still be a necessity along with predetermination of specific physical parameters.