Radiofrequency capacitive hyperthermia for unresectable hepatic cancers

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Medical Physics
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• Unresectable hepatic cancer presents significant treatment challenges.
• Intra-arterial chemotherapy and chemoembolization are established treatment modalities.
• Hyperthermia as an adjunct therapy requires further investigation for efficacy and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency capacitive hyperthermia combined with intra-arterial chemotherapy or chemoembolization in patients with unresectable hepatic cancer.
• To assess the correlation between intratumor temperature and treatment response.
• To identify factors influencing tumor temperature during hyperthermia treatment.

Main Methods:

• Forty-five patients with unresectable hepatic cancer received radiofrequency capacitive hyperthermia combined with intra-arterial chemotherapy or chemoembolization.
• Intratumor temperatures were monitored in a subset of patients.
• Treatment response was assessed, and adverse effects were recorded.

Main Results:

• The overall response rate was 31.1%.
• Tumors reaching a maximum core temperature (Tmax) of ≥42°C showed a response rate of 55.6%, compared to 11.8% for Tmax <42°C (difference not significant).
• Tumor temperature was influenced by applied power, use of degradable starch microspheres, and portal vein obstruction. No serious adverse effects were reported.

Conclusions:

• Radiofrequency capacitive hyperthermia combined with intra-arterial chemotherapy or chemoembolization is a potentially effective and safe treatment for unresectable hepatic cancer.
• Achieving intratumor temperatures of ≥42°C may be associated with better treatment outcomes.
• Further research is warranted to optimize hyperthermia parameters and confirm its benefits.