Radiofrequency ablation in breast-conserving surgery after neo-adjuvant chemotherapy and analysis of antibacterial effect of Ag nanogel

Abstract

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has emerged as a treatment modality for solid tumors. However, the feasibility of RFA in treating the tumor bed in breast surgery remains investigational. Herein, we have reported the preliminary results evaluating the effect of RFA in breast-conserving surgery (BCS), followed by neo-adjuvant chemotherapy (NAC), and the antibacterial effect of nanomaterials. From April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2017, 22 patients received NAC followed by BCS. After the lumpectomy was complete, suspicious tumor margins were ablated with radiofrequency electrodes. The clinicopathological features and follow-up results of these patients were collected. Furthermore, the Ag nanogel was prepared for the evaluation of antibacterial activity. RFA was successful in all 22 patients during BCS. Two patients (4.5%) got skin burns and six patients (27.3%) had solid nodules formed in situ. The median follow-up time was 22.5 months (range, 11–34 months). No patients presented local recurrences or metastasis. Moreover, 18 patients (81.8%) were satisfied with the cosmetic outcomes. The Ag nanogel has stable morphology and good bacteriostatic effect in Escherichia coli and Bovis aureus. The RFA techniques applied in BCS after NAC have high success rates with relatively low complication rates. RFA may improve cosmetic results after BCS and enhance local tumor control. Further applications of RFA in patients treated with BCS after NAC must be assessed in long-term studies. Nanomaterials have good antibacterial effect and can be used on the surface of medical instruments.