Microwave early detection of breast cancers using a virtual-focus scanning method

Electromagn Biol Med. 2008;27(3):312-22. doi: 10.1080/15368370802289893.

Abstract

In this work, we apply a virtual-focus scanning method to detect a tumor inside a simplified two-dimensional breast model via the finite difference time domain method. For the purpose of simplification, we construct a microwave detection system with an N-element infinitesimal dipole array, and excite the central element of the array while letting all elements receive the time-shifted scattered fields in order to filter out unwanted signals. With the application of the two-step, virtual-focus scanning method, our computerized prototype system has accurately detected randomly generated tumors in all cases investigated, including small tumors in early stages of development.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Early Detection of Cancer*
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Microwaves*
  • Time Factors