Analysis of microwave scattering from a realistic human head model for brain stroke detection using electromagnetic impedance tomography

Abstract

Brain stroke incidences have arisen at an alarming rate over the past few decades. These strokes are not only life threatening, but also bring with them a very poor prognosis. There is a need to investigate the onset of stroke symptoms in a matter of few hours by the doctor. To address this, Electromagnetic Impedance Tomography (EMIT) employing microwave imaging technique is an emerging, cost-effective and portable brain stroke diagnostic modality. It has the potential for rapid stroke detection, classification and continuous brain monitoring. EMIT can supplement current brain imaging and diagnostic tools (CT, MRI or PET) due to its safe, non-ionizing and non-invasive features. It relies on the significant contrast between dielectric properties of the normal and abnormal brain tissues. In this paper, a comparison of microwave signals scattering from an anatomically realistic human head model in the presence and absence of brain stroke is presented. The head model also incorporates the heterogenic and frequency-dispersive behavior of brain tissues for the simulation setup. To study the interaction between microwave signals and the multilayer structure of head, a forward model has been formulated and evaluated using Finite Element Method (FEM). Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) analysis is also performed to comply with safety limits of the transmitted signals for minimum ionizing effects to brain tissues, while ensuring maximum signal penetration into the head.