Numerical Simulations of Electroporation Process and Effect in the Bile Duct and Heart

Numerical Simulations of Electroporation Process and Effect in the Bile Duct and Heart

Stať ve sborníku mimo WoS a Scopus

Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a minimally invasive ablation technique used primarily for the treatment of tumors. It uses short, high-voltage electrical pulses to induce nanopores in cell membranes, causing cell death [1]. IRE offers several advantages over traditional ablation techniques, such as reduced scarring, inflammation, and immune reaction. It has been reported to exhibit tissue selectivity, allowing tumors to be treated even in proximity to sensitive structures. Although it is not affected by the heat sink effect, it is no longer considered an exclusively non-thermal ablation method [2]. To date, IRE remains largely experimental and requires further clinical validation before routine use. Our research explores novel applications of using IRE to treat various health issues. Two case studies using 3D FEM simulations in COMSOL Multiphysics will be presented. The first addresses recanalization of occluded biliary metal stents caused by malignant stenosis, where simulations confirmed the feasibility of this innovative approach for future clinical protocols [3]. The second focuses on pulsed field ablation (PFA) in cardiac tissue to treat arrhythmias. Results indicate maximal Joule losses near the active electrode in blood, coinciding with the region of peak current density. Blood flow appears sufficient to cool the electrode under certain conditions while increasing voltage leads to a temperature rise that requires cooling. Conversely, larger blood contact increases current flow and associated patient risk. A balance between current and temperature is therefore essential. These findings highlight the complexity of PFA and the need to consider multiple interacting parameters for safe and effective treatment outcomes [4].

Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a minimally invasive ablation technique used primarily for the treatment of tumors. It uses short, high-voltage electrical pulses to induce nanopores in cell membranes, causing cell death [1]. IRE offers several advantages over traditional ablation techniques, such as reduced scarring, inflammation, and immune reaction. It has been reported to exhibit tissue selectivity, allowing tumors to be treated even in proximity to sensitive structures. Although it is not affected by the heat sink effect, it is no longer considered an exclusively non-thermal ablation method [2]. To date, IRE remains largely experimental and requires further clinical validation before routine use. Our research explores novel applications of using IRE to treat various health issues. Two case studies using 3D FEM simulations in COMSOL Multiphysics will be presented. The first addresses recanalization of occluded biliary metal stents caused by malignant stenosis, where simulations confirmed the feasibility of this innovative approach for future clinical protocols [3]. The second focuses on pulsed field ablation (PFA) in cardiac tissue to treat arrhythmias. Results indicate maximal Joule losses near the active electrode in blood, coinciding with the region of peak current density. Blood flow appears sufficient to cool the electrode under certain conditions while increasing voltage leads to a temperature rise that requires cooling. Conversely, larger blood contact increases current flow and associated patient risk. A balance between current and temperature is therefore essential. These findings highlight the complexity of PFA and the need to consider multiple interacting parameters for safe and effective treatment outcomes [4].

electroporation, numerical simulations

electroporation, numerical simulations

NOVOTNÁ, V.; HEMZAL, M.; MOUSA, M.

17.09.2025

Jadara University

Amman, Jordan

114

114

183

https://www.humboldt-foundation.de/en/connect/humboldt-kolleg-sustainable-science-development-transforming-industries-and-society