Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of osteoid osteoma using cool-tip electrodes without the cooling system

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for osteoid osteoma (OO) using cool-tip electrodes without the cooling system.

Materials and methods: A total of 17 patients (13 males, 4 females; mean age 19.1 years; range 7-49 years) with OO (tibia, n = 7; femur, n = 5; acetabulum, n = 2; radius, n = 1; talus, n = 1; lumbar spine, n = 1) underwent RFA. Using a cool-tip electrode without the cooling system, the lesion was heated to 90°C for 4 or 5 min. Procedures were considered technically successful if the electrode was placed into the nidus and the target temperature was reached and maintained for at least 4 min. Clinical success of the treatment was defined as complete or partial pain relief after RFA.

Results: All procedures were considered technically successful, although two patients encountered complications (pes equinus contracture, skin burn). Altogether, 16 of the 17 patients (94.1%) achieved complete or partial pain relief after primary RFA. Two patients had pain recurrence, with one of them treated successfully with a second RFA. The overall clinical success rate was 88.2%. Histological findings confirmed the presence of OO in 13 patients (76.5%).

Conclusion: Percutaneous RFA of OO using cool-tip electrodes without the cooling system is a safe, effective procedure.