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MRI-guided radiofrequency thermal ablation of normal lung tissue: in vivo study in a rabbit model
Frank K Wacker1, Sherif G Nour, Rosana Eisenberg
1Department of Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, University Hospitals of Cleveland, 11100 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106, USA. wackerfrank@web.de
Objective:
The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of MRI to guide and monitor radiofrequency ablation of normal pulmonary tissue in a rabbit model.
Materials And Methods:
Percutaneous puncture and lung radiofrequency ablation were performed in six New Zealand white rabbits under MRI control using a 0.2-T open MRI scanner. Technical feasibility and complication detection were evaluated. The ablation zone appearance and size were assessed using MRI, CT, and gross pathology. Interclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) of the maximum short-axis diameters of the lesions on gross pathology and the corresponding diameters as measured on each MRI pulse sequence and on CT scans were calculated.
Results:
MRI guidance of percutaneous puncture and radiofrequency ablation of pulmonary tissue is feasible. A pneumothorax was detected and treated using MRI. In the specimen, the mean coagulation necrosis diameter was 9.8 mm. The T1-weighted spoiled gradient-echo fast low-angle shot images showed the highest ICC (0.81) for the thermal lesion diameter.
Conclusion:
Our results indicate that MRI guidance is feasible and useful for radiofrequency ablation of normal pulmonary tissue.
Insights
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a feasible tool for guiding and monitoring radiofrequency ablation of lung tissue in a rabbit model. This technique allows for accurate assessment of ablation zones and complication detection.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Interventional Radiology
- Pulmonary Interventions
Background:
- Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat various medical conditions.
- Accurate guidance and monitoring are crucial for the success and safety of RFA procedures, especially in delicate organs like the lungs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility of using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to guide and monitor radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of normal pulmonary tissue.
- To assess the accuracy of MRI in determining the size and appearance of ablation zones.
- To investigate MRI's capability in detecting complications during pulmonary RFA.
Main Methods:
- Six New Zealand white rabbits underwent percutaneous puncture and RFA of lung tissue under the control of a 0.2-T open MRI scanner.
- Technical feasibility and complication detection were assessed.
- Ablation zone size and appearance were evaluated using MRI, CT, and gross pathology, with interclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) calculated for diameter measurements.
Main Results:
- MRI guidance for pulmonary tissue RFA proved feasible, enabling detection and treatment of a pneumothorax.
- The mean diameter of coagulation necrosis in specimens was 9.8 mm.
- T1-weighted spoiled gradient-echo fast low-angle shot MRI sequences demonstrated the highest ICC (0.81) for measuring thermal lesion diameter.
Conclusions:
- MRI guidance is a feasible and valuable tool for performing radiofrequency ablation of normal pulmonary tissue.
- The findings suggest MRI can enhance the precision and safety of pulmonary RFA procedures.
