title: Multiple fiber laser-induced thermotherapy for ablation of large intrahepatic tumors.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this study was to test three techniques used simultaneously to increase lesion size.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  Laser-induced thermotherapy (LITT) is a method of local tumor ablation, which may prolong survival in patients with unresectable liver metastases. The main limitation has been the production of lesions with sufficient tumor-free margin.
  
  
  METHODS
  LITT treatment was performed with water-cooled, multiple fiber application and hepatic blood flow occlusion in six patients with unresectable intrahepatic metastases. Response was measured by computed tomography scan.
  
  
  RESULTS
  In all patients, tumors were effectively ablated. In two patients with colorectal metastases, lesions up to 8.6 cm could be created.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The use of watercooled multiple fiber application and hepatic inflow occlusion makes LITT an effective ablative method, expanding the treatment options for patients with large intrahepatic masses.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands.
authors.forename: Liesbeth M
authors.initials: LM
authors.lastname: Veenendaal
authors.forename: Arjan
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: de Jager
authors.forename: Gerard
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Stapper
authors.forename: Inne H M
authors.initials: IH
authors.lastname: Borel Rinkes
authors.forename: Richard
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: van Hillegersberg
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017075:Laser Coagulation / Q000379:methods*; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000556:secondary* / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D014867:Water
chemical_list: D014867:Water