Experimental study of multi-channel microwave coagulation therapy for hepatic cancer

Abstract

In order to increase the range of coagulation, we have developed multi-channel microwave coagulation therapy (MMCT) using numerous teflon-coated electrodes for hepatic cancer. In this study, the liver tissue of the adult mongrel dog was punctured and irradiated by 8 teflon-coated electrodes with microwave energy of 220-230 watts (55-57.5 watts per a electrode) for 10-15 minutes. We obtained the completely coagulated liver tissue and the specimens through sacrifices. The maximum diameters of the coagulated areas were 46 × 37 mm, 63 × 48 mm, 65 × 55 mm, 60 × 45 mm and 60 × 50 mm. HE-staining of cross sections showed necrotic and hemorrhagic changes. Further more, after coagulation, we could pull the teflon-coated electrode out of the liver tissue easily.
These results suggests that a hepatic cancer > 3 cm can be controlled by MMCT.