| abstract |
The present invention is an improved array of electrodes for use in delivering electromagnetic energy to a localized area of a patient's body in a hyperthermic treatment so that it provides a uniform distribution of electromagnetic flux lines within the localized area of the patient's body in order to produce a uniform and localized heating gradient. The improved array of electrodes includes a plurality of electrodes which are arranged in pair, with the electrodes in each pair being spaced a particular distance apart. The improved array of electrodes are driven by a balanced line system which is electromagnetically coupled to each pair of electrodes and which is shielded by a ground coaxial shield which itself is ground to the body of the patient. Each electrode is embedded in a Teflon stand-off in order to move the region of strong field, from the body, produced by rapidly changing potentials. The two pairs of electrodes forming a cross like geometry are used with the balanced line systems. The electrical power is either multiplexed among the electrodes or the second pair is driven by a potential which is sinusoidal and which is 90° out of phase with the first balanced line system which is also sinusoidal. |