High-frequency jet ventilation for minimizing breathing-related liver motion during percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of multiple hepatic tumours

Abstract

Movements of the liver caused by spontaneous breathing (during sedation or local anaesthesia) or by ventilation during anaesthesia are a source of concern in CT-guided procedures because of the limited spatial and contrast resolution of unenhanced imaging, artifacts caused by the probes and the relatively low temporal resolution of the fluoroscopy mode. During CT-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA), it is essential that the lesion can be visualized optimally and that the ablation probe is positioned accurately to avoid non-target injuries. We therefore used high-frequency jet ventilation and general anaesthesia to minimize ventilation-related liver movement and provide optimal conditions for a patient undergoing RFA of hepatic metastases. The technical and anaesthetic considerations are discussed, and a specific limitation of transcutaneous PCO(2) measurement during activation of the ablation is reported for the first time.