Sreeraj S R

Electromagnetic spectrum
Infra Red Ultra Gamma-
Radio & TV Violet Rays

Microwaves
X-Rays

Non-ionising Radiation Ionising

(generally not so bad) Radiation
(generally bad)

1 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 1010 1011 1012 1013 1014 1015 1016 1017 1018 1019 1020 1021 1022
Sreeraj S R
Frequency (Hertz)
Definition
 Irradiation of tissues with radiation in the shorter wireless part of the spectrum (Hertzian
rays) i.e. the wave length is between infra red and short wave diathermy.

 The general frequency of microwave is between 300 to 30000MHz with wave length of 1 m
to 1 mm.

 Frequently used frequency and wavelength are,

Frequency Wavelength
2450 MHz 12.25 cm
915 MHz 32.7 cm
433.92 MHz 69 cm

Sreeraj S R
Production

Fan and cathode Reflector

Heater control
circuits

Power
supply
from Magnetron
Antenna
mains

Emitter
Coaxial cable
Intensity
Mains control Sreeraj S R
Magnetron

Sreeraj S R
 Microwave Diathermy Unit

 A= Power Switch
 B=Timer
 C=Output Meter (indicates output in watts)
 D= Power Output Level Knob
 E= Amber Light-Warming up / Red Light- Ready
Sreeraj S R
Applicators

 Circular Shaped Applicators

 Maximum Temperature At Periphery
 Rectangular Shaped Applicators
 Maximum Temperature At Center
 Contact applicators
Sreeraj S R
Physical behaviour

 Absorption, Grotthus Law

 Transmission
 Reflection
 Refraction

Sreeraj S R
Physiological effects

 Consequence of tissue heating due to

o Ionic movement
o Dipole rotation
o Molecular distortion
 Strongly absorbed by tissues of high water
content

Sreeraj S R
Therapeutic Effects

 Relief of pain

 Reduce muscle spasm

 Promote healing

 Infection

 Increase the extensibility

Sreeraj S R
Dosage

 20 min for vascular adjustment

 If significant heating required 30 min would
be reasonable
 Intensity: the patient should feel mild and
comfortable warmth.
 Frequency: daily or on alternating day.

Sreeraj S R
 Principles of Application

 Preparation of patient

 Preparation of apparatus

 Preparation of part to be treated

 Setting up- Emitter should be positioned so that radiations strike the

surface at right angles

 Instruction and warning

 Application

 Termination

Sreeraj S R
Contra-indications
 Over malignant tissues.
 Over ischemic tissues
 Over wet dressings and
adhesive tapes.
 Metal implants.
 Pacemaker.
 Over growing bone.
 Male gonads: repeated
irradiation can cause sterility.
 Hemorrhage.
 Tuberculous joints.
 Impaired thermal sensation.
 Unreliable patients.
 The eyes: cause cataract.
 Recent radiotherapy.
 Hypersensitivity to heat
 Acute infection or inflammation.
 Analgesic therapy: the thermal
sensation diminished.
 Venous thrombosis or phlebitis.
 Pregnancy: heat applied to pelvis
or hip in pregnancy may cause
hemorrhage or miscarriage.
 Menstruation.
 Acute dermatological conditions.
 Severe cardiac conditions.
 Blood pressure abnormalities.
Sreeraj S R