Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) is a non-invasive therapy that utilizes low-intensity alternating electric fields to inhibit cancer cell division. This technique is particularly applied in the treatment of brain tumors.
Tumor Treating Fields or TTFields is a non-invasive therapy that uses low-intensity alternating electric fields to disrupt cancer cell division.
To simulate the delivery of TTFields to a brain tumor patient, first, shave the patient's entire scalp and sterilize it to prepare for TTFields-Transducer arrays placement.
Then, using the patient's MRI measurements, configure the transducer arrays placement.
Secure the arrays over the predetermined positions on the scalp with adhesive bandages.
Next, connect the color-coded cables attached to the transducer arrays to the matching color-coded sockets on the connection cable box.
Additionally, connect the cable box assembly to the battery-powered TTFields generator, which would deliver electric fields to the transducer arrays.
Now, switch on the power to apply optimal electric field intensity at the tumor site for the desired duration.
In a dividing cancer cell, exposure to low-intensity, intermediate frequency alternating electric fields causes the electrically charged proteins such as tubulin and septin to align in the direction of the applied field.
This alignment disrupts microtubule spindle formation and localization of septin fibers, which are the key mitotic processes.
As a result, mitosis is inhibited, ultimately leading to cell death.
The TTF system is composed of the following instruments: a portable battery, a connection cable and box, an electric field generator, a plug-in power supply, and a set of transducer arrays.
To assemble the TTF system, charge the battery by placing it in the charger, plugging in the charger to a wall outlet, and turning on the power button on the back of the charger.
Once the battery has been charged, plug the battery into the electric field generator then through its connector to a socket labeled "DC IN" on the front panel of the device. Ensure that the arrows on the battery connector are facing up towards the "DC IN" sign while plugging in the connector.
Then, using the black and white color-coded plugs, connect each of the four transducer array connectors to the matching black and white color-coded sockets on the connection cable box. Insert the cable from the connection box to the connection cable socket on the device.
To apply the transducer array, begin by using an electric shaver to shave the patient's entire scalp, ensuring that no stubble remains. Then, use 70% medical-grade alcohol to wipe the scalp.
Next, remove the transducer arrays from the envelopes. Then, to the patient's clean scalp, apply each of the arrays according to a predetermined specific array arrangement. Plug the array cables into the color-matched connection cable and box.
After the arrays are in place and the system is fully connected, turn on the power switch on the device. Then, switch on the TTF field button. The system is now ready for electric field delivery.
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