Hyperthermic Oncology - Electromagnetic Energy Deposition Modeling and Treatment Planning

Project Overview

Hyperthermic Oncology is an innovative approach in cancer treatment that involves the use of controlled heat to damage or destroy cancerous tissues while minimizing harm to surrounding healthy tissue. My role in this project was to develop computational tools for modeling electromagnetic energy deposition in biological tissues and integrating these models into a comprehensive treatment planning system.

This project combined advanced imaging processing, CAD modeling, and software development to create a user-friendly graphical interface (GUI) for precise treatment planning. The goal was to enable medical practitioners to simulate and optimize hyperthermia treatments with high accuracy and efficiency.

 

Key Responsibilities and Contributions

 

1. Electromagnetic Energy Deposition Modeling

► Developed numerical models to simulate the interaction of electromagnetic waves with biological tissues.

► Implemented algorithms to calculate energy absorption rates (SAR) and temperature distributions within the target tissues using finite element methods (FEM).

► Validated the models against experimental data and published benchmarks to ensure accuracy and reliability.

 

2. Image Processing for Biological Tissues

► Processed medical imaging data (e.g., MRI, CT scans) to extract detailed anatomical information of the tumor and surrounding tissues.

► Applied segmentation techniques to isolate regions of interest (ROI) such as tumors and critical organs.

► Enhanced image resolution and quality using filtering and noise reduction algorithms to improve model precision.

 

3. CAD Model Generation

► Converted processed 2D/3D medical images into CAD models using custom scripts and libraries (e.g., OpenCV, VTK, or similar tools).

► Created parametric representations of biological structures to facilitate accurate simulation of electromagnetic interactions.

► Ensured seamless integration of CAD models with the electromagnetic simulation framework.

 

4. Treatment Planning GUI Development

► Designed and implemented a user-friendly GUI to allow clinicians to interact with the CAD models and adjust treatment parameters.

► Integrated real-time visualization tools to display energy deposition patterns and temperature maps on the CAD models.

► Enabled users to simulate various treatment scenarios and optimize electrode placement, power levels, and heating durations.

► Developed export functionality to save treatment plans in standard formats for clinical use.

 

5. Software Tools and Technologies

► Utilized programming languages such as Python, and C++ and C# for algorithm development and simulation.

► Leveraged libraries and frameworks like NumPy, SciPy, PyVista and PyQt/Qt for image processing, CAD modeling, and GUI development.

► Employed FEM solvers (e.g., COMSOL Multiphysics, CST Studio Suite, and some other open-source alternatives) for electromagnetic simulations.

 

Technical Highlights

► Finite Element Analysis (FEA): Simulated electromagnetic wave propagation and heat transfer in heterogeneous biological tissues.

► Image Segmentation Algorithms: Applied machine learning-based approaches (e.g., U-Net architectures) and traditional techniques (e.g., thresholding, edge detection) to segment tumors and organs.

► Real-Time Visualization: Integrated OpenGL or WebGL for rendering 3D CAD models and dynamic simulation results.

► Customizable Treatment Plans: Allowed users to define patient-specific treatment protocols by adjusting input parameters and viewing immediate feedback.

 

Skills Demonstrated

► Computational modeling and simulation

► Medical image processing and analysis

► CAD modeling and conversion from imaging data

► GUI design and development

► Finite element methods (FEM)

► Software integration and optimization

► Problem-solving in multidisciplinary environments

 

 

 

Final Review

The Hyperthermic Oncology project exemplifies my ability to bridge scientific research and practical application through computational tools. By combining expertise in electromagnetic modeling, image processing, and software development, I contributed to advancing a promising cancer treatment modality. This project not only showcases my technical skills but also underscores my commitment to creating impactful solutions in healthcare.