New Reports on Radiofrequency Ablation for Lung Metastases
At the recent conference of the European Congress of Radiology, two researchers from University Hospital, London reported on outcomes associated with lung radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for lung metastases.
The researchers discussed recurrence rates following RFA among a small cohort (N=28) of patients with lung metastases less than 6 cm. Factors associated with recurrence were larger tumor size, central location, and treatment with expandable electrodes among tumors less than 3.5cm. Alternatively, tumors peripherally located were significantly associated with lower recurrence rates. The authors respond to these findings by offering an alternative treatment protocol, which they hope will reduce recurrence.
The researchers also reported on the incidence of pneumothorax following RFA. The retrospective review indicated a number of factors associated with increased risk for pneumothorax: length of electrode trajectory, number of tumors ablated, and number of electrode positions. The authors suggest that this data can be used to identify patients more likely to develop pneumothorax; interventional radiologists can then be prepared to efficiently address the common side effect.
The University of Pittsburgh started a clinical trial in 2006 to examine outcomes of RFA for lung tumors. The trial is actively recruiting patients.
March 15, 2007 Related topics: Radiology, Hematology & Oncology