Radiofrequency ablation of head and neck tumors: dramatic results from application of a new technology.
BACKGROUND
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a new treatment modality used over the past decade predominantly in the treatment of unresectable liver tumors. We find no prior reported series on the use of RFA for malignant tumors of the head and neck.


METHODS
Four patients with recurrent tongue tumors not amenable to standard surgical or radiation therapy were treated with RFA administered transorally, endoscopically, or percutaneously.


RESULTS
There was no perioperative mortality. Significant palliation was achieved consisting of substantial reduction in tumor size and alleviation of tumor-induced pain. One patient has survived for 8 months with no progression of tumor. Three patients had complications, including line sepsis, pneumonia, and enlargement of an orocutaneous fistula.


CONCLUSIONS
RFA was relatively straightforward to apply, achieved substantial palliation, and was associated with minimal perioperative morbidity and no mortality. It might easily be combined with other therapies such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation. Further investigation is necessary and ongoing.
Owen
Randall P
RP
Department of Surgery, Head and Neck Division, Montefiore Medical Center of the Einstein College of Medicine, 111 E 210th Street, Bronx, NY 10467, USA. rowen@montefiore.org
Ravikumar
Thanjavur S
TS
Silver
Carl E
CE
Beitler
Jonathan
J
Wadler
Scott
S
Bello
Jacqueline
J
D000368:Aged; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000601:surgery*; D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D002404:Catheterization / Q000009:adverse effects; D017577:Cutaneous Fistula / Q000473:pathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009059:Mouth Diseases / Q000209:etiology; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / Q000601:surgery; D011014:Pneumonia / Q000209:etiology; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D018805:Sepsis / Q000209:etiology; D014062:Tongue Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*