Assessment of 7-Tesla Magnetic Resonance Mediated Radiofrequency Ablation in Pig Joint Using Textile Monopole Antenna

Motivation: Magnetic resonance-mediated radiofrequency ablation (MR-RFA) uses MRI scanners for both imaging and therapy, effectively treating tumors. Goal(s): In this study, a 7 Tesla (T) knee coil was used to direct RF energy to the ablation site in a pig's knee joint through a textile-based monopole antenna and a needle. The procedure aimed to induce RF heating at the tumor location. Approach: To estimate the rise in local specific absorption rate (SAR) and the resulting temperature increase, the MR-RFA process was analyzed using FDTD Sim4Life simulation. Results: The findings revealed a peak temperature of 105°C at the needle tip in the knee joint. Impact: In contrast to existing ablation designs which requires ground pads, this design for the pig knee joint delivers localized heating, minimizes tissue damage, no MR image distortion, and eliminates the need for external RF power sources.