Computational Modelling to Elucidate the Role of Saline during Saline-infused Radiofrequency Ablation

Saline infusion can be combined with radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to ablate larger tumours. However, saline-infused RFA has yet to be applied in mainstream clinical practice due to the lack of understanding behind its mechanisms and the potential outcomes. This thesis develops computational models that simulate the biophysical response of tissue when infused with saline during RFA. This thesis demonstrates that saline-infused RFA is a safe and reliable cancer treatment that ablates larger tumours with precise control of the shape of ablation zone. This thesis also proposes an alternative approach to simulate saline-infused RFA that accounts for water vaporisation and condensation.