Patent ID: 6470217
Filing Date: 2002-10-22
Classification: A61N

Abstract:
A method for treating cancerous or benign conditions of the breast by selective irradiation of the breast tissue with focused microwave energy, the method comprising the steps of:a) Inserting an E-field probe sensor to an appropriate depth in the breast tissue; b) Monitoring temperatures of the breast skin surface; c) Orienting two microwave applicators on opposite sides of the breast; d) Setting the initial microwave power delivered to each microwave applicator; e) Setting the initial relative microwave phase delivered to each microwave applicator to focus the microwave energy at the E-field probe positioned in the breast tissue; f) Adjusting the relative microwave power to be delivered to each microwave applicator during treatment based on the monitored skin temperatures; g) Monitoring the microwave energy delivered to the microwave applicators; and h) Completing the treatment when a desired total microwave energy dose has been delivered by the microwave applicators to the breast.