Laser ablation of ampullary carcinoma

Abstract

Background and study aims: The aim of this study was to assess whether the use of laser ablation could palliate or potentially cure ampullary carcinoma.

Patients and methods: This study involved patients with confirmed ampullary carcinomas who were deemed fit for repeated endoscopic treatment but who were unfit for more radical treatment, and included six patients in Oxford and six in Gloucester. Repeated laser therapy was used after endoscopic stenting, following investigation as described.

Results: Good periods of survival were seen with good palliation and no complications of treatment. The longest survival was 36 months (range 4-36, median 21). Duodenal obstruction was successfully relieved in one patient.

Conclusion: The treatment shows promise in selected patients, but conclusions are limited by the small numbers and lack of controls in this study.