Temperature-controlled laser hyperthermia using a custom designed 808-nm diode laser system integrated with an infrared array sensor

Laser-induced hyperthermia (LH) is a treatment technique researched in multiple medical applications, including the treatment of warts and malignant tumors. Optimal laser energy delivery to target tissue is important to achieve an effective LH with minimal damage to healthy tissue. However, this can be challenging because optical properties may vary depending on tissue type and environmental factors. Therefore, real-time measurement of temperature is as important as dosimetry for a successful and safe LH application. In addition, the temperature measurement must be non-contact to minimize the risk of microbial contamination. In this study, we developed a temperature-controlled 808 nm diode-laser system that eliminates the risk of thermal damage and contamination by performing non-contact, real-time temperature measurements of the irradiated surface. The system is composed of an 808 nm c-mount diode laser, an infrared (IR) array sensor for temperature measurement, a PC, and an electronic control unit (ECU). The system was tested on phantoms and ex vivo tissues. According to the results, the temperature-controlled 808 nm diode-laser system could maintain the surface temperature of samples at the target temperature value.