Design and Fabrication of Nanofiber-Coated Antenna with Electrospun Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) for Tissue Cancer Ablation

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HC) is a common liver cancer often associated with chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis B and C-induced cirrhosis. Multiple treatments are available, including microwave ablation (MWA), which has proven effective. This is attributed to its proved ability to eliminate liver tumors with a successful rate of more than 85%. However, in order to maintain healthy tissues and establish good ablation practicability, the temperature involved should be controlled. This can be achieved by monitoring different parameters including thermal conductivity, heat capacity, and blood perfusion. For this purpose, an antenna probe is usually employed to localize heat distributions and identify heating efficiency. Many types and shapes of antenna probes for MWA have been reported in different studies. Thus, in the current study, a numerical model is established to investigate the performance of the antenna based on its shape. A finite element model (FEM) was developed to examine the specific absorption rate (SAR), distribution of temperature, and coefficient of reflection. Closed and conventional single-slot antennas were targeted via this model. The antenna was then designed to have a reflection coefficient lower than 10 dB and heating of a spherical shape profile. The findings of the study can aid in determining the optimal parameters required for the highest effectiveness of MWA in the treatment of HC at early stages with the lowest amount of invasiveness and collateral harm.