J Korean Radiol Soc.  2001 Sep;45(3):271-275.

Radiofrequency Ablation of Lung Cancer: Preliminary Report

• Choi JY
• Kang SG
• Byun JN
• Kim YS
• Kim YC
• Lee SI

Abstract

PURPOSE: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of lung cancer in animals and humans has been described in previously published reports. The aim of this study was to present our preliminary experience of treatment of lung cancer involving this approach.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Eight patients with lung malignancies [stage IIIB or IV bronchogenic adenocarcinoma (n=6), metastatic squamous cell carcinoma (n=1), metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma (n=1)] underwent RFA treatment. In all cases LeVeen-type electrodes were employed and CT was used to monitor the procedure. One-day and one-month follow-up CT scans were obtained and analyzed.
RESULTS
Prior to treatment, tumor diameter ranged from 2.5 to 5 cm; afterwards, low attenuation consistent with coagulative necrosis was observed. Complications included a small amount of pneumothorax (n=4), pleural effusion (n=8), and subcutaneous emphysema (n=1). Tumor size decreased in five patients, was unchanged in two, and increased in one.
CONCLUSION
Radiofrequency ablation of lung cancer is safe and may result in a reduced tumor burden.

Keyword

Lung neoplasms; Lung neoplasms, CT; Radiofrequency ablation

MeSH Terms

Adenocarcinoma
Animals
Carcinoma, Hepatocellular
Carcinoma, Squamous Cell
Catheter Ablation*
Electrodes
Follow-Up Studies
Humans
Lung Neoplasms*
Lung*
Necrosis
Pleural Effusion
Pneumothorax
Subcutaneous Emphysema
Tomography, X-Ray Computed
Tumor Burden