Computed tomography-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of osteoid osteoma: local experience

Osteoid osteoma is a slow-growing tumour with limited growth potential. In the past, treatment comprised open surgery with en-bloc resection or curettage of the tumour. In recent years, various minimally invasive percutaneous treatments have gained popularity. We report on six patients who underwent computed tomography-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablations of osteoid osteomas between January 2000 and December 2003 in a regional hospital in Hong Kong. Technical success was achieved in all procedures, with a mean follow-up of 40 months (range, 18-65 months). Five of the six patients achieved complete pain relief after the procedure and remained pain-free on subsequent follow-up. One patient with persistent symptoms after the first ablation was successfully treated with a second ablation. The mean in-hospital stay was 2.4 days. Progress in radiological healing was observed in all patients. There was one complication of skin burn over the needle entry site. Our experience shows that percutaneous computed tomography-guided radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive and cost-effective treatment for osteoid osteoma.