Heating patterns produced by shortwave diathermy applicators in tissue substitute models.

To be a deep-heating modality, shortwave diathermy applicators have to heat the musculature more than the subcutaneous fat. In this study, commercially available and prototype shortwave diathermy applicators were tested using tissue substitute models which allow rapid thermographic scanning of the initial linear transient temperature rise in the subcutaneous fat and muscle. The specific absorption rates (SAR) of the electromagnetic radiation were calculated throughout the tissues. Great differences were found in the deep-heating capability of these applicators. Some of the applicators heated the subcutaneous fat more than the muscle, while others were more efficient in heating the musculature.