In Vivo Experimental Study of an Endoscopic Ultrasound Multifunctional Radiofrequency Ablation Probe

Area of Science:

• Interventional Radiology
• Gastroenterology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Developing novel tools for minimally invasive liver interventions is crucial.
• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) offers precise guidance for targeted therapies.
• Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an established technique for liver lesion treatment.

Observation:

• A new RFA probe designed for EUS was tested.
• The probe simultaneously enabled RFA and iron oxide nanoparticle (IONs) injection in liver tissue.
• Procedures were conducted on domestic pigs, divided into RFA-only, IONs-followed-by-RFA, and IONs-injection-only groups.

Findings:

• EUS-RFA ablation zones in groups A and B measured 4.9 cm and 5.2 cm, respectively.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed distinct patterns for RFA lesions and nanoparticle distribution.
• Group B showed some nanoparticle dispersion beyond the target area, while Group C had widespread dispersion.

Implications:

• The EUS-RFA probe with IONs injection capability is feasible for targeted liver interventions.
• IONs can enhance visualization and potentially modulate RFA effects.
• Further research is needed to optimize nanoparticle distribution and therapeutic outcomes.