Electromagnetic modeling in hyperthermia: current status and future directions

The ability to simulate hyperthermic treatments is recognized as an essential tool for understanding and improving hyperthermia therapy. Models have evolved from simple analytic solutions on idealized geometries to complex two- and three-dimensional numerical calculations on realistic CT-based anatomies. A discussion is presented of the progress that has been made in calculating power deposition patterns produced inside the body by electromagnetic (EM) means. It is seen that while two-dimensional models have been informative and agree qualitatively with clinical observations, 3-D models of hyperthermia therapy are needed.<>