Percutaneous Ablation Treatment Research Articles

A comparative study assessing the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation versus surgical treatment for osteoid osteoma: retrospective analysis in a single institution

ObjectiveWe aim to evaluate the efficacy of CT-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and surgical treatment in osteoid osteoma (OO) treated at the Medical University of Graz.Materials and methodsIn a single-institution study, we analysed data from January 2005 to January 2021 of patients with histological/radiological diagnosis of OO. CT and MRI scans were reviewed for typical findings. Means (with SD) and medians (with IQR) were reported for normally and non-normally distributed variables. Differences between groups were assessed using chi-squared tests and t-tests.ResultsOne hundred nineteen patients (mean age: 21.6 ± 10.9 years; 63.9% males) with confirmed OO were retrospectively evaluated. 73 and 43 patients underwent RFA and surgery, respectively. In three cases, RFA combined with surgery was performed. Pre-intervention, 103 patients (88.8%) had undergone CT, and 101 had an MRI (87.1%). The nidus was confirmed in 82.5% of cases with CTs (85/103) and 63.4% with MRIs (64/101). The majority of nidi were located cortically (n = 96; 82.8%), most frequently in the femur (38 patients, 33.3%) with a median size of 8.0 mm (IQR: 5.0–12.0 mm). Median symptom duration before treatment was 6.0 (IQR: 4.0–13.0) months. The complication rate was 12.1% (14/116; 15.1% RFA vs. 7.0% surgery; p = 0.196). In total, 11.2% of patients had persistent symptoms after one week with clinical success rates of RFA and surgery, 86.3% and 90.7% (p = 0.647), respectively.ConclusionCompared to surgical treatment, CT-guided percutaneous RFA is a safe, minimally invasive, reliable, and efficient treatment option for OO.Critical relevance statementThis article critically assesses the diagnosis and treatment of osteoid osteoma, emphasising accurate imaging, and detailing a non-invasive option for effective management.Key points• This study analyses 116 cases of OO at one institution, focusing on symptom persistence, recurrence in short-term follow-up, and complications in two study groups.• Surgery showed higher, though not statistically significant, success despite comparable symptom persistence; CT displayed typical OO features more than MRI, regardless of the intramedullary, cortical and subperiosteal location as well as the site of the affected bone.• CT-guided RFA is an effective therapeutic alternative for OO compared to surgical intervention. In case of atypical OO appearance, RFA is not the first-line treatment.Graphical

Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation and endoscopic neurotomy for lumbar facet joint syndrome: are they good enough?

Lumbar facet joint (LFJ) syndrome is one of the common causes of low back pain (LBP). There are different views on percutaneous and endoscopic radiofrequency. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to explore the therapeutic effect of radiofrequency ablation on LBP originating from LFJ and compare the therapeutic effect of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation and endoscopic neurotomy. We included randomized controlled trials which compared the efficiency of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation and conservative treatment (sham procedures, facet joint injection, physiotherapy, exercise, or oral medication) or compared the efficiency of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation and endoscopic neurotomy for LFJ syndrome. We searched in PubMed and Web of Science from inception to March 27, 2023. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software. A total of 11 randomized controlled trials were included. Among them, nine studies were used for evaluating efficiency of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation, and two studies were used for evaluating efficiency of endoscopic neurotomy. Pooled data from two studies reporting outcomes at 1year did not show a benefit from facet joint denervation by comparing the percutaneous radiofrequency ablation and conservative treatment (standardized mean difference (SMD) = -0.87, 95% confidence interval (CI) [-2.10, 0.37], P = 0.17). There was no significant difference between percutaneous radiofrequency ablation and endoscopic neurotomy at 1-month follow-up (mean difference (MD) = -0.13, 95%CI [-0.18, -0.44], P = 0.41). At 12-month follow-up the pain relief in the endoscopic neurotomy was significantly better than that in the percutaneous radiofrequency ablation group (MD = 1.98, 95%CI [1.60, 2.36], P < 0 .0001). The LBP was significantly relieved shortly after percutaneous radiofrequency ablation. Compared with percutaneous radiofrequency ablation, endoscopic neurotomy seems to have a longer effect. A longer follow-up period is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

Ablación percutánea de tumores en la cúpula hepática asistida por sistemas de navegación para TC. Descripción técnica y experiencia inicial

Introduction and objectiveCT navigation systems enable access to lesions that are in difficult locations, with poor ultrasound visualisation, and adjacent to vulnerable structures. The objective of this study is to show how navigation systems can increase safety and precision in the ablative treatment of lesions in the hepatic dome. Materials and methodsA retrospective single-centre study was carried out from April 2018 to February 2022. Percutaneous ablation procedures were performed with CT-navigation system assistance on 75 patients, of which 18 had lesions in the hepatic dome (16 HCCs and 5 metastatic tumours). Syngo.via VB30 software was used to analyse the volume of lesions and ablation areas in pre- and post-treatment CT images. Technical success was determined 24hours following the procedure and according to the length of time free from tumour viability (through imaging tests every three months). ResultsA volumetric study was carried out for 20 of the 21 lesions (95%) and technical success was achieved in 11 of the 21 lesions (52%). In 9 of the 12 lesions that completed a year of follow-up (75%), no signs of tumour viability were detected, achieving local control of the disease. Furthermore, in 5 of these 9 lesions (56%) no progression was observed in other locations of the liver. The syngo.via software version VB30 was able to predict the area of recurrence in 71% of cases. No permanent side effects or death were secondary to the procedure. ConclusionCT navigation systems provide increased safety and precision in the percutaneous ablative treatment of tumours in the hepatic dome, making this technique a good treatment option.

Techniques and outcomes of percutaneous tumour ablation for small renal masses.

Small renal masses suspected to be malignant have little potential for metastasis and disease-related mortality. Surgery remains the standard care but represents overtreatment in many cases. Percutaneous ablative technique, especially thermal ablation has emerged as a valid alternative. The increased availability of cross-sectional imaging has led to a large number of incidentally detected small renal masses (SRMs), many of which are of low grade and exhibit indolent behaviour. Since 1996, ablative techniques such as cryoablation, radiofrequency ablation, and microwave ablation have gained widespread acceptance for treatment of SRMs in patients who are not surgical candidates. In this review article, we provide an overview of each of the commonly used percutaneous ablative treatments for SRMs and summarize the current literature regarding the advantages and disadvantages of each technique. Although partial nephrectomy (PN) represents the standard treatment of SRMs, Thermal ablation techniques have been increasingly used showing acceptable efficacy, low complication rate, and equivalent survival. Cryoablation seems to be superior to radiofrequency ablation in terms of local tumour control and retreatment rates. However, selection criteria for thermal ablation are still under refinement.

Our Single Center Experience in Osteoid Osteoma Patients Treated with CT-Guided Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation Treatment and Follow-up.

Introduction Osteoid osteoma (OO) is a painful benign bone tumor. Typically, it causes pain that is most noticeable during the night, which is improved by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. In the treatment of symptomatic lesions, open surgery for nidus removal is the gold standard. However, surgical technical difficulties and morbidities vary by location. Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) therapy guided by computed tomography (CT) is now a popular treatment option for OO. This study aims to assess our single-center experience with the technique, complications, and procedure effectiveness. Materials and Methods The study included fifteen patients who were treated between 2017 and 2021. A retrospective analysis was carried out on archive images and file records. The lesions' location, nidus width, and affected area (cortical, medullary) were all recorded. The procedure and technical success, as well as postoperative complications and the need for repeat ablation, were all documented. Results A total of 20 patients, 18 men, and 2 women, were included in the study, and 12 of them were pediatric patients. The patients' mean age was 16.9±7.3 years old, and the mean nidus diameter was 7.1±8.7 mm. There were 13 cortical niduses, 2 intramedullary niduses, and 5 corticomedullary niduses. The lesions were in the femur (n=12), tibia (n=6), scapula (n=1), and vertebrae (n=1). Two recurrences (10%) were observed in our patients during the follow-up. Patient with a femoral OO, the pain started again 12 weeks after the procedure and we performed additional RFA. The patient with vertebral OO had fewer symptoms and full recovery was not achieved. Therefore, the vertebral OO was ablated again 4 months later, and clinical success was achieved. One patient had a minor burn at the entry site that went away on its own after a short period of time. Except for the patient who was scheduled for a repeat RFA, no recurrence has been observed so far. The primary and secondary success rates are, respectively, 90% (18/20) and 100% (20/20). Conclusion RFA has a high success rate in treating OO. The procedure failure and recurrence rates are low. There are possibilities for posttreatment pain relief, early discharge, and a quick return to daily life. For inappropriate lesion localization, the RFA process replaces surgical treatment. The procedure-related complication rate is low. On the other hand, the burn during the procedure can be a serious problem.

Radiofrequency Ablation for Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastases: Outcomes and Prognostic Factors Associated with Survival.

To determine the long-term outcomes of radiofrequency ablation with respect to overall survival, disease-free survival, and complications in patients with colorectal cancer liver metastases. Additionally, we sought to examine whether various patient- and treatment-related characteristics were associated with prognosis. Fifty-nine patients with colorectal cancer liver metastases who had undergone percutaneous radiofrequency ablation treatment were included in this study. A total of 138 lesions were treated with radiofrequency ablation in the first and second sessions. Tumor diameters ranged from 10 to 60 mm (mean, 2.45 mm). Treatment efficacy, complications, and overall survival and disease-free survival were analyzed. The primary success rate of radiofrequency ablation was 94.4%. At the end of the first month, the residual disease was detected in 12 lesions, 10 of which underwent secondary radiofrequency ablation treatment, resulting in a cumulative secondary success rate of 98.4%. The 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival rates in 59 patients with colorectal cancer liver metastases were 94.9%, 52.5%, and 40.6%, respectively. The median survival was 42 months in patients with metastasis size of ≤3 cm, while it was 25 months in patients with metastasis size of >3 cm (P = .001). The 1-, 3-, and 5-year disease-free survival rates were 44%, 10.2%, and 6.7%, respectively. Metastatic tumor status (solitary or multiple) was a significant prognostic factor in determining overall survival and disease-free survival; furthermore, extrahepatic recurrence during follow-up was a prognostic factor affecting overall survival. Minor complications developed in four radiofrequency ablation procedures (6.7%). Radiofrequency ablation remains a safe and effective treatment option improving survival in select cases of colorectal cancer liver metastases.

Percutaneous ablation treatment in metastatic lung tumors: a single-center experience

In recent years, many studies have proven that percutaneous thermal ablation is an effective second-line treatment method with low complication rates in early-stage non-small cell lung carcinoma and lung metastases. Radiofrequency ablation and microwave ablation are commonly used for this purpose. To evaluate the factors affecting the success of the percutaneous thermal ablation treatment with technical success, complication rates, and long-term follow-up results in metastatic lung lesions. Computed tomography (CT)-guided percutaneous ablation was performed for 70 metastatic lung lesions in 35 patients (22 men, 13 women; mean age = 61.34 years; age range = 41-75 years). Radiofrequency ablation was performed in 53/70 (75.7%) lesions and microwave ablation in 17/70 (24.3%) lesions. The technical success rate was 98.6%. Median overall survival, progression-free survival, and local recurrence-free survival of the patients were 33.9 months (range=25.6-42.1 months), 12 months (range=4.9-19.2 months), and 24.2 months (range=8.2-40.1 months), respectively. One- and two-year overall survival rates were 84% and 74%, respectively. Median progression-free survival times were 20.3 months and 11.4 months, respectively, according to the number of metastatic lung lesions being single and multiple, and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.046). According to the number of lesions ≤3 and >3, the difference was also found statistically significant (P = 0.024) (14.3 months and 5.7 months, respectively). In conclusion, CT-guided percutaneous thermal ablation is a safe and effective treatment method in metastatic lung lesions. The number of lesions is the most important factor in predicting treatment success.

Cone Beam Computed Tomography Image Fusion with Cross Sectional Images for Percutaneous Renal Tumor Ablation: Preliminary Data.

Percutaneous ablative treatments in the kidney are now standard options for local cancer therapy. Multimodality image guidance, combining two 3D image sets, may improve procedural images and interventional strategies. We aimed to assess the value of intra-procedural cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) with magnetic resonance (MR) or CT imaging fusion technique in the guidance of percutaneous microwave ablation (MWA) of renal neoplasms. Fifteen patients (eight males, seven females, median age 65 years, median lesion size 20 mm) underwent percutaneous MWA for 15 renal tumors. All the procedures were performed in a dedicated angiography room setting; CBCT ablation planning capabilities included multimodality image fusion. Preoperative contrast-enhanced CT was available in 12 patients, whereas magnetic resonance imaging in the remaining. All patients were considered inoperable due to comorbidities, advanced age, and/or refusal to undergo surgery. Exclusion criteria were: tumors visible at unenhanced CBCT, metastatic disease, and uncorrected coagulopathy. Technical success and technical effectiveness were calculated. Procedural time, complications and recurrences were registered. MWA under CBCT-guidance with fusion technique was technically successful in 14 out of 15 cases (93%). The median procedural time was 45 min. No procedure-related complications were reported. No enhancing tissue was visualized in the area of ablation at 1-month follow-up. All 15 cases were recurrence-free at last follow-up assessment (median follow-up of 12 months); no cancer-specific deaths were registered. CBCT-CT/MR image fusion is technically feasible and safe in achieving correct targeting and complete ablation of renal lesions. This approach bears the potential to overcome most of the limitations of unenhanced CBCT guidance alone; larger series are needed to validate this technique.

A right atrial arteriovenous hemangioma excision under a beating heart after percutaneous catheter cardiac ablation

Percutaneous catheter ablation treatment is an interventional treatment method for atrial fibrillation. Herein, we report the case of a 38-year-old male patient who developed a right atrial mass after two percutaneous catheter ablations. The mass was excised by the beating heart technique, later diagnosed as arteriovenous hemangioma. Arteriovenous hemangioma had not been encountered before as a complication of catheter ablation.

CT after Lung Microwave Ablation: Normal Findings and Evolution Patterns of Treated Lesions.

Imaging-guided percutaneous ablative treatments, such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), cryoablation and microwave ablation (MWA), have been developed for the treatment of unresectable primary and secondary lung tumors in patients with advanced-stage disease or comorbidities contraindicating surgery. Among these therapies, MWA has recently shown promising results in the treatment of pulmonary neoplasms. The potential advantages of MWA over RFA include faster ablation times, higher intra-tumoral temperatures, larger ablation zones and lower susceptibility to the heat sink effect, resulting in greater efficacy in proximity to vascular structures. Despite encouraging results supporting its efficacy, there is a relative paucity of data in the literature regarding the role of computer tomography (CT) to monitor MWA-treated lesions, and the CT appearance of their morphologic evolution and complications. For both interventional and non-interventional radiologists, it is crucial to be familiar with the CT features of such treated lesions in order to detect incomplete therapy or recurrent disease at early stage, as well as to recognize initial signs of complications. The aim of this pictorial essay is to describe the typical CT features during follow-up of lung lesions treated with percutaneous MWA and how to interpret and differentiate them from other radiological findings, such as recurrence and complications, that are commonly encountered in this setting.

Percutaneous ablation for adrenal metastases: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Imaging-guided percutaneous ablation (PA) is commonly employed for the treatment of patients diagnosed with adrenal metastasis (AM), but comprehensive analyses are essential to validate the efficacy and safety of this approach. The present meta-analysis was designed to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and long-term outcomes associated with the imaging-guided PA treatment of AM. Relevant studies in the PubMed, Embase, and Wanfang databases published as of June 2022 were identified, and pooled endpoint analyses were performed with Stata 12.0. This meta-analysis included 15 studies. Overall, the respective pooled primary technical success, secondary technical success, local hemorrhage, pneumothorax, hypertension crisis, local recurrence, 1-year overall survival (OS), and 3-year OS rates in study participants were 88%, 93%, 3%, 6%, 6%, 19%, 80%, and 46%. High levels of heterogeneity were evident for the 1-year OS (I2 = 79.6%) and 3-year OS endpoints (I2 = 67.1%), but meta-regression analyses failed to identify predictors of these OS rates. Low heterogeneity was observed for subgroups of patients who had undergone cryoablation (I2 = 0%) or patients with multiple primary cancers (I2 = 0%) with respect to 1-year OS. Similarly, low heterogeneity for the 3-year OS endpoint was detected in subgroups of patients who had undergone cryoablation (I2 = 0%), ultrasound-guided PA (I2 = 0%), individuals with AMs secondary to hepatocellular carcinoma (I2 = 0%), and patients with multiple primary cancers (I2 = 0%). These results suggest imaging-guided PA to be a safe and effective treatment for AM associated with satisfactory long-term patient outcomes.

Liver-Directed Therapy for Neuroendocrine Metastases: From Interventional Radiology to Nuclear Medicine Procedures.

Simple SummaryApproximately 80% of metastatic patients with gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NENs) have secondary hepatic lesions, and in approximately 50% of cases, the liver is the only metastatic site. In patients with hepatic metastases from NENs for whom surgical treatment is contraindicated (high liver involvement, inaccessible localizations), percutaneous or intra-arterial treatments are safe and effective options to achieve disease control. In selected patients, liver-directed therapy could allow the improvement of clinical symptoms and biological abnormalities related to tumor secretion. However, toxicity and quality of life are also important elements in therapeutic decisions and must be considered for each single patient. Prospective studies are necessary to define the best treatment combination, including systemic and local options, to improve patient management.Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are rare and heterogeneous epithelial tumors most commonly arising from the gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) system. GEP-NENs account for approximately 60% of all NENs, and the small intestine and pancreas represent two most common sites of primary tumor development. Approximately 80% of metastatic patients have secondary liver lesions, and in approximately 50% of patients, the liver is the only metastatic site. The therapeutic strategy depends on the degree of hepatic metastatic invasion, ranging from liver surgery or percutaneous ablation to palliative treatments to reduce both tumor volume and secretion. In patients with grade 1 and 2 NENs, locoregional nonsurgical treatments of liver metastases mainly include percutaneous ablation and endovascular treatments, targeting few or multiple hepatic metastases, respectively. In the present work, we provide a narrative review of the current knowledge on liver-directed therapy for metastasis treatment, including both interventional radiology procedures and nuclear medicine options in NEN patients, taking into account the patient clinical context and both the strengths and limitations of each modality.

Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Caudate Lobe Using Expandable Electrodes

Objective: To evaluate the outcome of radiofrequency (RF) ablation using expandable electrodes in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) located in the caudate lobe. Materials and Methods: Between January 2011 and April 2017, 29 consecutive patients with HCC at the caudate lobe were treated with RF ablation using expandable electrodes. The electrodes were placed on the targeted tumor under combined ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) guidance for each tumor in all the patients. Out of the 29 cases, 19 (65.5%) were accessed via the left hepatic lobe. The technical success, primary efficacy, local tumor progression, secondary efficacy, overall survival, and complications were evaluated. Univariate analysis was performed of the various prognostic factors for technical success, primary efficacy, and local tumor progression. Results: The technical success rate was 86.2%, primary efficacy was 89.7%, and secondary efficacy was 82.8%. The local tumor progression (LTP) rate was 12.3% at one year and 31.5% at two years. The median time of LTP was 6.9 months. The overall survival rate was 85.8% at one year and 57.1% at two years. Ten patients died during the follow-up period (mean 22.5 months; with a range of 3.6–53.2 months). A minor complication of asymptomatic biloma was found in one patient (3.5%). Small-sized tumors (≤2 cm) and Spiegel’s lobe location had significantly better treatment outcomes (p = 0.007 and 0.045, respectively). Conclusion: Radiofrequency ablation using expandable electrodes is feasible and safe in treating HCCs located in the caudate lobe, especially for small-sized tumors (≤2 cm).

Impact of an Augmented Reality Navigation System (SIRIO) on Bone Percutaneous Procedures: A Comparative Analysis with Standard CT-Guided Technique.

(1) Background: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of an augmented reality navigation system (SIRIO) for percutaneous biopsies and ablative treatments on bone lesions, compared to a standard CT-guided technique. (2) Methods: Bioptic and ablative procedures on bone lesions were retrospectively analyzed. All procedures were divided into SIRIO and Non-SIRIO groups and in <2 cm and >2 cm groups. Number of CT-scans, procedural time and patient’s radiation dose were reported for each group. Diagnostic accuracy was obtained for bioptic procedures. (3) Results: One-hundred-ninety-three procedures were evaluated: 142 biopsies and 51 ablations. Seventy-four biopsy procedures were performed using SIRIO and 68 under standard CT-guidance; 27 ablative procedures were performed using SIRIO and 24 under standard CT-guidance. A statistically significant reduction in the number of CT-scans, procedural time and radiation dose was observed for percutaneous procedures performed using SIRIO, in both <2 cm and >2 cm groups. The greatest difference in all variables examined was found for procedures performed on lesions <2 cm. Higher diagnostic accuracy was found for all SIRIO-assisted biopsies. No major or minor complications occurred in any procedures. (4) Conclusions: The use of SIRIO significantly reduces the number of CT-scans, procedural time and patient’s radiation dose in CT-guided percutaneous bone procedures, particularly for lesions <2 cm. An improvement in diagnostic accuracy was also achieved in SIRIO-assisted biopsies.

Ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma: beyond the standard indications

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common primary liver neoplasia, represents the fifth most common malignant disease in men. Percutaneous ablation treatment is recommended among the treatments suggested for HCC patients in the very early/early stage. In the last decade, very important results in terms of survival benefits have been obtained with local ablative therapies, also outside the standard indications, thanks to many technical innovations. In particular, important results of ablation as a safe and effective technique have been obtained in the treatment of intermediate- or advanced-stage patients with HCC, and in the treatment of unfavourable tumour locations. Moreover, awareness is growing regarding the necessity of overcoming the rigidity of traditional guidelines in the treatment of HCC due to the complexity of patients with HCC, focusing on Precision Medicine. In this context, it is important to know the standard and non-standard indications of ablation in the treatment of HCC in order to offer the best therapeutic option tailored for each patient. The aim of this study was to analyse the possible clinical applications of ablative therapies for HCC patients, beyond the traditional indications recommended in the most widespread clinical practice guidelines for the management of HCC.

Spécificités gériatriques du cancer du rein localisé

To describe the epidemiology of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and its natural history in the elderly patient. To propose adaptations of geriatric evaluation specific to RCC. Recall therapeutic options and the treatment options specific to elderly patients. Bibliographic research from the Medline bibliographic database (NLM Pubmed tool) and Embase, as well as on the websites of scientific societies of geriatrics, from the National Cancer Institute using the following keywords: elderly, geriatrics, renal cell carcinoma, small renal mass, diagnosis, treatment. The incidence of RCC increases in France and peaks between 70 and 80 years. This increase in incidence is mainly due to the diagnosis of small renal masses (SMR). The specific mortality of RCC increases with age (at least between 75 and 95 years). Tumor biopsy, especially of SMR, should be considered in the elderly patient. The geriatric assessment of patients with CaR has no specificity apart from specific evaluation of renal function and operative risk. There is no prospective therapeutic trials dedicated to elderly patients with localized RCC. Surgical treatment requires the use of fast track protocol (the modalities of which are being elaborated) in which geriatricians play a key role throughout the process. The role of percutaneous ablative treatment should be better defined in elderly patients. However, given their low specific mortality, surveillance of SRM (at least initially) is probably an interesting option, certainly under-used, although its impact on quality of life remains to be clarified. The overarching goal of geriatric oncology must guide the decisions of care in the older patient with CaR: first, the respect of patient-specific expectations and secondly the search for an overall clinical benefit; objectives that have no reason to be restricted to elderly patients. RCC is becoming a predominantly elderly cancer. It responds to the current general diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines. It is desirable that clinical research help to better define the respective roles of percutaneous biopsy and treatment of localized RCC.

Evaluation of Outcomes following Radiofrequency Ablation for Treatment of Parotid Tail Warthin Tumors.

To evaluate efficacy and safety of radiofrequency (RF) ablation for parotid Warthin tumor. From September 2016 to August 2017, 7 consecutive patients with biopsy-proven parotid Warthin tumors who did not undergo surgery presented with symptoms or cosmetic concerns and underwent US-guided percutaneous RF ablation treatment. RF ablation procedures were performed using the moving shot technique. US, contrast-enhanced CT, or MR imaging was performed 6-12 months after each procedure. Complications and cosmetic scale improvement after RF ablation were also evaluated. There was a significant reduction in mean tumor volume from 14.6 cm3 ± 13.1 (range, 1.9-35.5 cm3) to 0.8 cm3 ± 0.5 (range, 0.2-1.54 cm3) and a mean cosmetic scale improvement (from 4 to 1) on imaging studies 6-12 months after RF ablation compared with before RF ablation (P < .05). Volume reduction ratios at 1-2 months, 5-6 months, and 10-12 months after RF ablation were 51.2% ± 18.1%, 87.8% ± 10.6%, and 94.3% ± 2.0%. There was no facial nerve injury. One patient with parotitis and hematoma recovered in 1 week. RF ablation using the moving shot technique could be an effective and safe alternative treatment for parotid tail Warthin tumors in patients unsuitable for or unwilling to undergo surgical resection.

Cryosurgery for primary breast cancers, its biological impact, and clinical outcomes.

Recently, a number of new minimally invasive image-guided percutaneous ablation treatments, including cryoablation, radiofrequency ablation, microwave ablation, high-intensity focused ultrasound, laser ablation, and irreversible electroporation have been developed. Several studies have shown the feasibility and safety of these cryoablation therapies for the treatment of benign breast tumors and small invasive breast cancer. Although the complete response rate of cryoablation for breast cancer is reported to be relatively good, most studies enrolled a small number of patients, and so reliable conclusions could not be drawn. In this review, we introduce the mechanisms of action of cryoablation, and summarize the current literature on the efficacy and safety of cryoablation for breast cancer. Cryoablation also induces an immunomodulatory effect, which is an interesting topic of research in the era of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Cryoablation for primary tumor may enhance the treatment effect of immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with breast cancer. Further investigations of this new therapeutic strategy are needed.

Poster Presentations

Introduction and Objectives: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) accounts for 2–3% of all cancers. With increasing use of Computer Tomography, a large proportion are detected earlier and amenable to focal therapies such as Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA). Our institution is unable to offer image‐guided percutaneous ablation (PA) through the public service due to lack of Interventional Radiology (IR) resources. Currently, patients with a small renal mass (SRM) are either actively observed, undergo radical nephrectomy (RN), partial nephrectomy (PN) or referred to another tertiary institution for focal therapy. Recent studies have demonstrated no difference in long‐term efficacy between RN, PN and PA treatment of SRMs in selected patients; but with significantly higher rates of morbidity in the surgical treatment groups. Our Urology Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) is supported by an interventional radiologist with Uroradiology specialisation who provides PA for our patients through a private facility and we assessed the cost‐effectiveness of our institution outsourcing PA . The aim of the study was to compare the costs associated with performing nephrectomies (RN, PN) in a public hospital with the costs of performing minimally invasive PA in a private hospital; and to assess the financial impact on the public system of the different treatment options for SRMs. Methods: The cost of performing PA at a large tertiary private hospital for patients with a SRM (<4 cm) between October 2017‐October 2018 was calculated and compared to the cost of RN or PN for patients with a SRM between January 2015 to June 2018 at a tertiary public hospital. Results: Twelve patients underwent PA (radiofrequency ablation or microwave ablation); 10 were performed under conscious sedation. A total of 56 RN and PN were performed during the studied period, including 19 patients with a SRM (RN = 15; PN = 4 with the majority (n = 17) performed laparoscopically. Mean size of lesions was similar (surgery = 29.8 mm; RFA = 27.2 mm). The average procedural time was significantly longer with surgery (219.66 min vs 54.75 min). Length of stay was longer with surgery. Cost per admission for surgery was $19 302.66 which was higher than PA costs of $4513 at a private institution. The cost of performing equivalent PA in a public hospital was calculated to be $2784.35, however this would not include staffing costs (doctors, nurses, radiographers etc).Outsourcing of PA was associated with additional Urology and Radiology appointments, MDT meetings, travel for patients and logistical challenges for the treating teams. Conclusion: The cost of outsourcing focal treatment of SRMs with PA to a private hospital appears to be similar to the same service provided in a public hospital. PA is more cost‐effective than surgery in carefully selected patients. The additional benefits of providing PA in a public hospital would include more streamlined management and continuity of care for patients. Greater funding for interventional radiology services to provide PA procedures in public hospitals should be considered by health authorities to improve access to less‐invasive treatments for SRMs and result in considerable cost‐savings for health budgets.

Thermal Ablation of Bone Metastases.

Image-guided, minimally invasive, percutaneous thermal ablation of bone metastases has unique advantages compared with surgery or radiation therapy. Thermal ablation of osseous metastases may result in significant pain palliation, prevention of skeletal-related events, and durable local tumor control. This article will describe current thermal ablation techniques utilized to treat bone metastases, summarize contemporary evidence supporting such thermal ablation treatments, and outline an approach to percutaneous ablative treatment.