Body Boundary Measurement Using Multiple Line Lasers for a Focused Microwave Thermotherapy System: A Proof-of-Concept Study

Abstract

A focused microwave thermotherapy system for non-invasively treating cancerous tumors has recently been actively developed. To accurately focus on the target location, the system needs information about the patient’s body boundary. However, a water bolus is placed between the human body and the microwave applicators to allow the microwave to penetrate the body more easily and cool the body’s skin. The structural configuration makes it difficult to measure the body boundary. In this paper, we present a body boundary measurement method using multiple line lasers and cameras for the application of a focused microwave thermotherapy system. Even with a lack of acquired boundary data, a completely closed boundary line can be reconstructed. In addition, real-time movement tracking is possible as it can be measured quickly, even in situations where the patient is moving, such as breathing and wriggling. The performance is verified with several indicators in a water-filled experimental testbed.