microwave interstitial system /mī″krəwāv/ , a microwave-generated hyperthermia system that uses up to eight 50-watt applicators to create a heat field in certain accessible tumors no more than 2 inches (5.08 cm) beneath the skin. The microwaves produce a temperature of about 109° F (42.7° C) to destroy the tumor cells. The treatment can be monitored on a video terminal that shows location of the tumor and heat applicators.
