Dynamic imaging and pathological changes in pig liver after MR-guided microwave ablation

Area of Science:

• Medical imaging
• Oncology
• Surgical techniques

Background:

• Magnetic resonance (MR)-guided microwave ablation is established for tumor treatment, particularly hepatic carcinomas.
• Detailed reports on post-ablation MR image and histological changes are lacking.
• This study addresses the need for dynamic mapping of pathological and MR imaging changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To dynamically map pathological changes after MR-guided microwave ablation.
• To correlate these pathological changes with observed MR imaging alterations.
• To provide a reference for post-ablation patient follow-up.

Main Methods:

• MR-guided microwave ablation was performed on 10 Wuzhishan pigs.
• MR scans were acquired immediately and at 1, 2, 3, and 4 weeks post-ablation.
• MR imaging findings were compared with histological tissue specimens.

Main Results:

• No significant difference was found between ablation zone size on MR images and tissue specimens.
• MR imaging accurately reflected histological changes, including central carbonization/cavities, surrounding necrosis, and peripheral inflammation/fibrosis.
• Mean ablation zone dimensions were comparable between imaging and specimens (length ~4.27 cm, width ~2.42 cm).

Conclusions:

• MR imaging accurately depicts the dynamic histological tissue alterations following microwave ablation.
• The findings offer a valuable reference for monitoring patients undergoing MR-guided microwave ablation.
• Dynamic imaging and pathological correlation enhance understanding of post-ablation treatment response.