Heat Transfer and Thermal Dosimetry

Abstract

The heat transfer mechanisms which lead to the development of the bioheat equation are reviewed. Thermal modeling and analytical judgements which must be made in applying the equation are noted. Temperature profiles-which result from solution of the equation using a simple spherical model are considered with particular emphasis on the influence of thermal conductivity and perfusion. Thermal conductivity values of a number of both normal and tumor tissues are discussed. The importance of adequate macroscopic thermal dosimetry to the evaluation of the ultimate promise of hyperthermia is observed. Experience in the quantification of temperature, thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity and perfusion from a single minimally invasive measurement in small volumes of tissue using the thermal diffusion probe is presented.