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Hybrid element method for unbounded electromagnetic problems in hyperthermia
Author(s) -
Lynch Daniel R.,
Paulsen Keith D.,
Strohbehn John W.
Publication year - 1986
Publication title -
international journal for numerical methods in engineering
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.421
H-Index - 168
eISSN - 1097-0207
pISSN - 0029-5981
DOI - 10.1002/nme.1620231010
Subject(s) - finite element method , discretization , jump , electromagnetic field , computer science , boundary (topology) , element (criminal law) , mathematics , mathematical analysis , calculus (dental) , physics , engineering , structural engineering , medicine , quantum mechanics , dentistry , political science , law
Finite element and boundary element methods are described for predicting high‐frequency electromagnetic heating of tissue as a cancer therapy. For the class of clinical problems of interest, the patient is electrically inhomogeneous and best discretized by finite elements, but the unbounded nature of practical source configurations calls for a boundary element approach. A hybrid is introduced which couples the two methods and is superior in algebraic requirements to either method alone. The formulation is three‐dimensional and allows exact satisfaction of the electromagnetic jump conditions at interfaces separating distinct tissue types. Test cases show its validity for transverse magnetic and electric situations with known solutions. Examples of clinical applications are shown.