Complications of microwave and radiofrequency lung ablation: personal experience and review of the literature

Abstract

Pneumothorax is the most common complication of both techniques. RFA and MWA are both excellent choices in terms of safety and tolerance.

Percutaneous cryoablation for inoperable malignant lung tumors: Midterm results

“…Incidence of moderate pulmonary hemorrhage, and hemothorax (CTCAE > 1) are higher in PC than heat-based modalities (eg. RFA, microwave: 0-3% [4,27]), originating from the thawing cycle may induce more fluid and bleeding. In addition to hyperemic change in the periphery of ablation zone, larger vessels remained in the central region in acute phase of PC also contributes the higher rate of hemorrhage [19].…”

Percutaneous Tumor Ablation Tools: Microwave, Radiofrequency, or Cryoablation—What Should You Use and Why?

“…Patients with non-small-cell lung carcinoma often have associated cardiopulmonary disease due to a long smoking history, and percutaneous procedures in patients with emphysema are associated with a higher complication rate than that seen in patients with normal background lung tissue. However, most studies of percutaneous RF ablation, microwave ablation, and cryoablation in patients with non-small-cell lung carcinoma demonstrate low rates of serious complications (79,80).…”

A National Analysis of the Complications, Cost, and Mortality of Percutaneous Lung Ablation

“…Percutaneous ablation and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) have gained increasing international acceptance as treatment modalities for nonsurgical candidates. Percutaneous thermal ablation is a minimally invasive alternative to surgical resection in appropriately selected patients with small primary pulmonary malignancy or limited metastatic disease, with an acceptable safety profile and oncologic efficacy (4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18).…”