Some Methods to Increase the Gain of the Antipodal Vivaldi Antenna Developed for the Breast Cancer Hyperthermia Applicator

In this study, a series of processes were conducted to improve the directivity and gain of the Antipodal Vivaldi Antenna (AVA), designed for use in the breast cancer hyperthermia applicator. Biomedical hyperthermia is the process of creating a temperature difference of approximately +7 °C in tumor tissue by transmitting electromagnetic waves through antennas positioned in various configurations around the breast. The antenna design phase is crucial because the radiating antenna must achieve maximum temperature increase in tumor tissue with optimal focus while sparing healthy tissues. Steps taken to develop a compact, low-cost, high-gain, and high-directivity Antipodal Vivaldi Antenna are presented.