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MR monitoring during cryotherapy in the liver: predictability of histologic outcome
R Matsumoto1, A M Selig, V M Colucci
1Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115.
Abstract:
For well-controlled application of cryotherapy to focal liver lesions, real-time monitoring is necessary to limit the final necrotic effect in the treated area. In this study, near real-time magnetic resonance (MR) monitoring images of normal rabbit liver were obtained during the freezing procedure. The MR-monitored, freezing-induced lesions were followed with MR images for up to 3 weeks. Corresponding histologic samples were also obtained over the same time period. Our results indicate that MR images obtained during the freezing procedure can adequately depict the area of final necrosis. Furthermore, histologic changes at each stage of lesion development correlated well with MR signal intensities on follow-up images. With the development of an MR-compatible cryogen probe, MR imaging may prove to be a robust method for monitoring, controlling, and following up cryotherapy in the liver.
Insights
Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging can monitor liver cryotherapy in real-time, accurately showing the final necrotic area. This technique allows for precise control and follow-up of liver lesion treatment, improving cryosurgery outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Medical imaging
- Interventional radiology
- Cryosurgery
Background:
- Cryotherapy is a promising treatment for focal liver lesions.
- Precise control of the necrotic effect is crucial for effective cryotherapy.
- Real-time monitoring during cryotherapy is currently limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility of using near real-time magnetic resonance (MR) imaging for monitoring liver cryotherapy.
- To assess the correlation between MR imaging findings and histological changes.
- To determine MR imaging's potential for controlling and following up cryotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Near real-time MR imaging was performed during cryotherapy in normal rabbit livers.
- Freezing-induced lesions were monitored with MR imaging for up to 3 weeks.
- Histological samples were collected and analyzed over the same period.
Main Results:
- MR images obtained during freezing accurately depicted the final necrotic area.
- Histological changes correlated well with MR signal intensities on follow-up images.
- MR imaging demonstrated the development and resolution of lesions over time.
Conclusions:
- Near real-time MR imaging is a viable method for monitoring liver cryotherapy.
- MR imaging can guide the control of cryotherapy to limit necrotic effects.
- MR imaging shows potential for robust monitoring, control, and follow-up of liver cryotherapy.