Description and characterization of the novel hyperthermia- and thermoablation-system MFH®300F for clinical magnetic fluid hyperthermia

Magnetic fluid hyperthermia (MFH) is a new approach to deposit heat power in deep tissues by overcoming limitations of conventional heat treatments. After infiltration of the target tissue with nanosized magnetic particles, the power of an alternating magnetic field is transformed into heat. The combination of the 100 kHz magnetic field applicator MFH(R)300F and the magnetofluid (MF), which both are designed for medical use, is investigated with respect to its dosage recommendations and clinical applicability. We found a magnetic field strength of up to 18 kA/m in a cylindrical treatment area of 20 cm diameter and aperture height up to 300 turn. The specific absorption rate (SAR) can be controlled directly by the magnetic field strength during the treatment. The relationship between magnetic field strength and the iron normalized SAR (SAR(Fe)) is only slightly depending on the concentration of the MF and can be used for planning the target SAR. The achievable energy absorption rates of the MF distributed in the tissue is sufficient for either hyperthermia or thermoablation. The fluid has a visible contrast in therapeutic concentrations on a CT scanner and can be detected down to 0.01 g/l Fe in the MRI. The system has proved its capability and practicability for heat treatment in deep regions of the human body. (C) 2004 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.