Application of the time-dependent Green's function and Fourier transforms to the solution of the bioheat equation.

Abstract

A theory for solving the bioheat equation is developed using a time-dependent Green's function and Fourier transform techniques. The description of both steady-state and time-dependent data are placed into a single framework which can also describe the effects of inhomogeneous blood perfusion. The theory is illustrated by examples including the modelling of a thermal conduction hyperthermia system and a new RF interstitial system. A possibility for measuring the blood perfusion parameter and thermal conductivity from the steady state temperature distribution of a point source is also proposed.