Percutaneous Image-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation of Bone Tumors

ABSTRACT

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has been used in the treatment of both benign and malignant bone tumors. To date, the most widely utilized techniques with regard to bone tumors are cryotherapy in the operative setting of malignant or locally recurrent neoplasms, and percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of osteoid osteomas and metastatic bone disease. this article provides a brief overview of the problem of metastatic bone disease and discusses the clinical opportunities for radiofrequency tumor ablation in treating painful bony metastases. Standard therapeutic options in the treatment of painful bony metastases include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, surgery, bisphosphonates, and the use of opiod and other analgesics. Despite these measures, the quality of life for these patients is often poor because of intolerable and intractable pain. A more effective modality of local treatment for bone metastases could substantially improve the quality of life for the patient. Radiofrequency ablation is emerging as a promising treatment option for painful bony metastases and early studies has demonstrated that RFA can be safely applied to metastatic bone disease and, as a consequence, be able to achieve effective pain palliation and local control of disease.

KEYWORDS

Radiofrequency ablation - bone - painful metastases - percutaneous

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