[Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of hepatic neoplasms using a   "cluster" electrode--first clinical results].
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate feasibility, safety and efficacy of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of hepatic neoplasms using a clustered electrode.


METHODS
Percutaneous, CT-guided RFA using a clustered electrode was performed in 12 patients with a total of 15 hepatic neoplasms (2.0-6.0 cm in diameter).


RESULTS
A total of 17 percutaneous RFA was performed. The mean total procedure time was 2.0 h (1.5-2.5 h). Placement of the clustered electrode within the neoplasms using a inter- or subcostal approach under local anesthesia was possible in all cases. Complications related to percutaneous treatment and technical problems were not encountered. Diameter of the ablated areas ranged between 3.0-7.0 cm. Technical success was observed in 13 of 15 neoplasms (86.6%). During a mean follow-up of 7.25 months (range 3-12 months) 8 of 12 neoplasms showed a complete necrosis.


CONCLUSIONS
Percutaneous RFA using a clustered electrode is a feasible, safe and effective procedure for the treatment of hepatic neoplasms up to 6 cm in size.
Trübenbach
J
J
Abteilung für Radiologische Diagnostik, Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tübingen. jochen.truebenbach@med.uni-tuebingen.de
König
C W
CW
Duda
S H
SH
Schick
F
F
Huppert
P E
PE
Claussen
C D
CD
Pereira
P L
PL
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology; D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D003110:Colonic Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology; D004566:Electrodes; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology / Q000556:secondary / Q000601:surgery*; D008875:Middle Aged; D000078702:Radiofrequency Therapy; D013997:Time Factors