Sci—Sat AM(2): Brachy — 06: Characterization of Dual‐Frequency, Multi‐Element Heating Applicators for MRI‐Guided Transurethral Ultrasound Therapy

MRI‐guided transurethral ultrasound therapy is a minimally‐invasive treatment for localized prostate cancer that provides local control with a low side‐effect profile which would have a major impact in improving disease management. High‐intensity ultrasound energy from a device inserted into the prostatic urethra generates an accurate region of thermal coagulation in the gland under MR‐temperature control. The purpose of this study was to characterize the acoustic, electrical and spatial properties of multi‐element ultrasound transducers designed for MRI‐guided transurethral ultrasound therapy. The transducer design is described, along with characterization of the electrical and acoustic properties of the device. Transmission spectrum and power output are shown for a single element illustrating their high acoustic efficiencies and power stability at fundamental and third harmonic frequencies. These results provide insight into the heating characteristics of this ultrasound device and its suitability for treating localized prostate cancer.