Endobronchial Radiofrequency Ablation for pulmonary nodules with Radial-Ebus and Navigation: Pros and Cons

Abstract

Introduction: Pulmonary nodules are common in the everyday clinical practice. There is always a diagnostic issue with this imaging finding. Based on the size we can use a variety of imaging and diagnostic techniques. Moreover; in the case of primary lung cancer or metastasis we can use radiofrequency ablation endobronchially. Patients and Methods: We used the radial-endobronchial ultrasound with C-arm and Archemedes, Bronchus electromagnetic navigation in order to acquire biopsy sample and we also used rapid on-site evaluation as a rapid diagnosis for pulmonary nodules. After rapid diagnosis we used the radiofrequency ablation catheter in order to ablate central pulmonary nodules. Results: Both techniques provide efficient navigation, however, with the Bronchus system less time is needed. The new radiofrequency ablation catheter provides efficient results in central lesions with low watts ≤40. Conclusion: We provided in our research a protocol to diagnose and treat such lesions. Future larger studies will provide more data on this subject.

Ablation for Single Pulmonary Nodules, Primary or Metastatic. Εndobronchial Ablation Systems or Percutaneous

“…We already have sufficient data that demonstrate the synergistic effect of ablation systems with the co-administration of drugs and this will be the future direction for research in the field of local treatment 15 , 60 - 62 . Moreover; our group has evaluated a radiofrequency ablation catheter for vessels from Covidien in order to treat small malignant pulmonary nodules 63 , 64 . This catheter with minor adjustments such as the addition of a spick tip can be better inserted in pulmonary lesion.…”