Masters Applied Projects

Project 10

Simulating Alternating Electric Fields for Optimized Placement of Electrodes for GBM Treatment

Student: Khalil Khoury

Mentors: Dr. Bradley Greger – SBHSE
Dr. Vincent Pizziconi – SBHSE
Dr. Jit Muthuswamy – SBHSE
Dr. Benjamin Hendrix – Barrow Neurological Institute

YouTube Link: View the video link below before joining the zoom meeting

Zoom link: https://asu.zoom.us/j/8931189120

Time: 10am – 2pm

Abstract

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is the deadliest form of brain cancer with a life expectancy of less than a year for many patients. The treatment for GBM is complex due to the anatomical location, disseminated nature of the tumor, and superficial understanding of pathophysiology. Treatments include surgical removal of the tumor along with chemo and radiation therapy. Even with these treatments, tumor regrowth is common. Recently, alternating electric field simulation of the tumor site has been shown to abate the tumor growth and extend life expectancy. Coulomb's law was used to simulate the alternating electrical field within the neural tissue to estimate the strength of the electrical fields on an isotropic geometric grid. This modeling is being extended to incorporate the complex anisotropy and geometry by using a mesh that contains the data from MRI of patients with a GBM. This will enable estimation of the electromagnetic field interactions with the anatomical geometry, neural tissue properties, and the priorities of GBM tumors. Using this model surgeons will be able to estimate the optimal placement of electrodes for specifically targeting GBM tumors, while leaving healthy neural tissue unaffected. Optimized electrode placement and electrical stimulation will hopefully lead to an extension of life for the patients due to the diminished growth rate of the GBM.