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Multiple probe radiofrequency ablation: pilot study in an animal model.
Fred T Lee1, Dieter Haemmerich, Andrew S Wright
1Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53792, USA. ftlee@facstaff.wisc.edu
Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology : JVIR
|November 8, 2003
Summary
A new multiple probe radiofrequency ablation (RFA) system can create multiple liver lesions simultaneously. This RFA technology shows feasibility for effective tumor treatment, potentially reducing procedure time.
Area of Science:
- Medical Devices
- Surgical Oncology
- Interventional Radiology
Background:
- Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive technique for tumor treatment.
- Current RFA systems use a single probe due to electrical interference issues with multiple probes.
- Developing multi-probe systems could enhance treatment of large or multiple tumors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a novel prototype multi-probe radiofrequency ablation generator.
- To determine if simultaneous ablation in multiple zones is feasible.
- To assess the impact on lesion size and procedure time compared to single-probe systems.
Main Methods:
- A dual-probe generator was developed by modifying a commercial system.
- An alternating monopolar system with a temperature-feedback-controlled switch was used.
- Twenty RF lesions were created in porcine livers: 10 single-probe and 10 dual-probe.
Main Results:
- Dual-probe ablation took slightly longer to reach target temperature (3.5 vs. 2.7 minutes).
- Total ablation time increased by only 6.5% with the dual-probe system.
- No significant differences were observed in lesion volume or diameter between single and dual probes.
Conclusions:
- A multi-probe RFA system is feasible for simultaneous ablation.
- This technology could improve treatment of large, irregular, or multiple liver tumors.
- Clinical availability may decrease procedure time and anesthetic risks.