[Radiofrequency ablation for osteoid osteoma]

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a treatment technique in which an electrode is introduced through a cannula into the centre of a tumour. This electrode is activated for a period of time, resulting in the tumour surrounding the electrode being thermally ablated. This technique is already being used in the treatment of liver and lung tumours. RFA is performed relatively infrequently for osteoid osteoma. A hospitalised patient is usually treated for osteoid osteoma by surgical removal of the tumour and its surrounding tissue. Several reports have shown that RFA is not only more effective than the surgical method, but is also safer for the patient. The rehabilitation period after RFA treatment is also significantly shorter. It is expected that RFA will replace surgical excision in the treatment of patients with osteoid osteoma.