The effect of conductivity changes on temperature rise during irreversible electroporation

Abstract

Purpose: Irreversible electroporation is a physical process which is used for killing the cancer cells. The process that leads to cell death in this method is a unique process. Thermal damage does not exist in this process. However, the temperature of the tissue also increases during the electroporation. In this study, we aim to investigate the effect of conductivity changes on tissue temperature increase during the irreversible electroporation process. Materials and Methods: To perform simulations and solve equations, COMSOL MultiPhysics has been used. Standard electroporation pulse sequence (8 pulses with different electric field intensities) was used as a pulse sequence in the simulation. Results: During the electroporation process, the electrical conductivity and the temperature of the tissue were increased. Changes in the tissue temperature in the simulation with variable electrical conductivity are more than in the simulation with constant electrical conductivity during the electroporation process. This difference for pulses with more vigorous electric field intensity and points closer to the electrodes has been achieved more. Conclusion: To more accurately estimate and calculate the temperature and thermal damage inside the tissue during the irreversible electroporation process, it is suggested to consider the effect of conductivity changes during this process. Copyright © 2020 Tehran University of Medical Sciences