Osteoid osteoma: percutaneous radio-frequency ablation.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate a percutaneous technique for in situ destruction of osteoid osteoma.


METHODS
Radio-frequency ablation was performed in 18 patients with osteoid osteoma (17 male, one female; age range, 8-42 years). Diagnosis was established by means of clinical and radiographic features and confirmed by means of needle biopsy findings. No attempt was made to remove the lesion. A small radio-frequency electrode introduced into the lesion through the biopsy track was used to produce thermal necrosis of a 1-cm sphere of tissue.


RESULTS
Symptoms were completely relieved in 16 (89%) of 18 patients. In one patient, a second procedure was required for pain relief. All but two patients underwent treatment as outpatients: These two were hospitalized for 1 night only. All patients resumed normal daily activities immediately. No casts or external supports were required; there were no complications. Twelve patients were followed up for more than 1 year. There were no recurrences


CONCLUSIONS
Radio-frequency ablation of osteoid osteoma is a promising alternative to surgery in selected patients.
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000556:Ambulatory Surgical Procedures; D001707:Biopsy, Needle; D001859:Bone Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D002648:Child; D004566:Electrodes; D005260:Female; D005266:Femoral Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D005272:Femur Neck / Q000601:surgery; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D006811:Humerus / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D009336:Necrosis; D010017:Osteoma, Osteoid / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D010146:Pain / Q000517:prevention & control; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012074:Remission Induction; D012086:Reoperation