Cryosurgery is particularly suitable for the treatment of unresectable liver
tumors. However, a major bottleneck is encountered during the treatment of large-sized irregularly shaped
tumors. Large and complex liver
tumors have varying degree of shape irregularity. Adopting a multiprobe freezing model, simulations for an irregularly shaped liver
tumor were conducted. The model, validated with both in-vitro data from an experimental setup, showed good agreement of up to 5.8%. The chosen mathematical treatment and simulation technique permit the study of employing multiple cryoprobes to destroy
cancer cells in irregularly shaped
tumors. Results from our study indicated that multiple cryoprobes can be strategically positioned to form
ice-fronts with various contours that adhere to the shape and size of the
tumor. The amount of cell-deaths within the
tumor after the -50°C
ice-front can be quantitatively calculated to determine the efficacy of different multiprobe arrangements in order to maximize cell destruction. The paper also underlines a piecewise approach of using several cryoprobes to quickly 'sculpt' the desired shape of the
ice-front based on the physical morphology of an irregular-shaped
tumor. This numerical study forms an essential framework in allowing surgeons to make informed decisions on the most effective surgical protocol based on the degree of irregularity in shape and size of
tumor.