Feasibility of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation for pulmonary malignancies in the hands of the surgeon

Abstract

Aim: To assess the feasibility of percutaneous pulmonary radiofrequency ablation (RFA) executed by a single surgeon.

Materials and methods: Between 2007 and 2010, 15 procedures were performed in 11 patients during 13 sessions. Sex, age, pulmonary localisation and tumor diameter are discussed. Metastatic lesions as well as pulmonary primitive malignancies were treated. For metastatic lesions, the primitive tumor was considered as completely treated. Surgery was refused because of impaired pulmonary function or due to patient's refusal. All interventions were carried out by a single thoracic surgeon under CT-guidance in the department of radiology.

Results: RFA was completed in all patients without perprocedural complications. There was no significant perioperative morbidity. Pneumothorax was the most frequent complication but none of the patients needed thoracic drainage. Hospital stay decreased progressively since the start of this series. Follow-up was complete. Most lesions were stable or diminishing in size.

Conclusion: These early results show that pulmonary RFA is a safe and feasible technique in the hands of the surgeon. Longer follow-up and larger series will be welcome to confirm the results and position of this procedure which might become an important tool for the surgeon and not only for radiologists.