Understanding Hyperthermia Treatments in Cancer Tumor Applications: Fundamentals, Technology, and Preliminary Heat Transfer Modeling

Abstract

Hyperthermia is a method of treatment for cancer tumors in which bodily tissue is heated to temperatures as high as 45 degrees C in order to destroy and kill cancer cells while causing little or no injury to healthy tissue. This research project has a threefold goal approach: One goal of this research is to review the literature and understand the different types of tumors and their characteristics, e.g. porosity, shape, and geometry. The second goal is to review and present a classification of the different types of hyperthermia technologies to treat suitable tumors and briefly describe their key physical information. The third goal is to analyze the heat transfer process present in the treatment of the tumor and understand its key role. We are addressing research with a foundation in engineering, biology, and physics. Using the Renaissance Foundry model, Newton's Law of Cooling, Fourier's Law, and the Bioheat equation, a suitable quantity of energy can be directed as needed, based on the tumor's dimensions. In this case, the length will be the independent variable to consider. To cure the tumor, the longer the length, the more heat transfer area is necessary. Based on literary research, the evidence suggests that with a proper understanding of heat transfer and the usage of hyperthermia for cancer treatment, these methods can be applied and further perfected for clinical use.