Radiofrequency ablation of solid tumors.
A N Mirza1, B D Fornage, N Sneige
1Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030, USA.
Cancer Journal (Sudbury, Mass.)
|April 28, 2001
Summary
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses heat to destroy solid tumors. This minimally invasive technique shows promise for treating various cancers, including recent investigations into breast tumors.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical Physics
- Interventional Radiology
Background:
- Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) generates heat through ion movement in tissue following alternating electrical currents.
- Ultrasound guidance is crucial for precise probe placement and real-time monitoring during RFA procedures.
- RFA is an established treatment for unresectable hepatic tumors and shows potential in other organs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and application of radiofrequency ablation for solid tumor treatment.
- To explore the emerging use of RFA in treating invasive breast tumors.
- To assess preliminary outcomes of RFA in locally advanced breast cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a radiofrequency probe inserted under ultrasound guidance.
- Performing ablation with continuous real-time ultrasound monitoring.
- Investigating RFA for various solid tumors including liver, lung, bone, brain, kidney, prostate, pancreas, and breast.
Main Results:
- RFA has proven effective for unresectable hepatic tumors.
- Promising results have been observed in lung, bone, brain, kidney, prostate, and pancreatic tumors.
- Preliminary studies indicate RFA can induce invasive breast cancer cell death.
Conclusions:
- Radiofrequency ablation is a viable therapeutic option for multiple solid tumor types.
- RFA demonstrates potential as a minimally invasive treatment for invasive breast cancer.
- Ongoing research is further defining RFA's role in treating smaller breast tumors (≤ 2 cm).
