A flexible
microwave applicator and method of use thereof. The applicator includes a flexible,
dielectric-containing compartment (e.g. temperature regulated water or oil) having a variable contour, tissue-engaging surface and an opposite non-tissue-engaging surface and an
antenna array adjacent to a non-tissue-engaging surface. The
antenna array includes at least one flexible
printed circuit board having a front
metal surface, a
dielectric substrate, a back
metal surface, a connection structure for connecting the
antenna array to at least one external
microwave device, at least one dual concentric conductor aperture on the front surface, and at least one
microstrip feedline in communication with the dual concentric conductor aperture and the connection structure. The
microwave applicator also includes flexible attachment material for placement over the antenna array and
dielectric compartment to allow the
microwave applicator to be attached to a subject like a garment which closely conforms to the
anatomy portion to be heated. The flexible attachment material may be configured such that the
microwave applicator is configured as an appropriately-shaped type of garment, for example, a
vest, jacket, cap, hood,
blanket, custom shaped conformal wrap, sleeve, or as a pair of shorts.