Radiofrequency ablation greatly improves survival time from primary or metastatic inoperable lung tumors, according to a study released at the Society of Interventional Radiology's annual meeting.

Of the 244 patients suffering from lung metastases (195 patients) or primary non-small cell lung cancer (49 patients), 70 per cent were still alive at two years, including 72 per cent for lung metastases and 64 per cent for primary lung cancer. These survival results are similar to surgical results from other studies, but the interventional treatment is less invasive and has far fewer side effects and less recovery time. The researchers found that RFA often can completely destroy the primary tumor and, therefore, extend a patient's survival and greatly improve his or her quality of life. Survival thus becomes dependent on the extent of disease elsewhere in the body.

Of the 49 patients (ages 27-85) with non-small cell primary lung cancer who were treated with RFA, 85 per cent had no viable lung tumors after one year on imaging, and 77 per cent had no viable lung tumors after two years, which indicates a cure. This study was conducted in tumors four centimeters in diameter or smaller, and even better results were obtained for tumors smaller than two centimeters.

Interventional radiologists insert a probe into the tumor. Energy is then transmitted to the tip of the needle to 'cook' and kill the tumor
©Copyright 2004, Society of Interventional Radiology

"About two-thirds of patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer are ineligible for surgery and typically have less than 12 months to live. A subset of these patients ineligible for surgery can be treated with RFA with the intention of curing the primary tumor. Thus, 70 per cent of my patients gained at least another two years. This new outpatient treatment is effective, allowing us to treat patients who historically have only palliative options, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy," said Thierry de Baere, M.D., interventional radiologist with the Institut Gustave Roussy in Villejuif, France.

These results are similar to studies in the United States and add to the growing body of evidence for RFA in extending survival time.

RFA is effective for local control of lung cancer, providing an attractive option for patients who may not be ideal surgical candidates, who wish to avoid conventional surgery or who have failed conventional treatments. A trial is needed to define if RFA can replace surgery in a subset of patients.

By the time lung cancer becomes symptomatic, 85 per cent of patients are incurable, often due to serious coexisting health conditions or poor respiratory function. Most patients who are diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer are not surgical candidates at the time of diagnosis. For these patients, minimally invasive interventional radiology procedures can improve survival, reduce pain and improve quality of life. Interventional radiologists are uniquely skilled in using imaging guidance to deliver targeted cancer treatments throughout the body.

Tumor diagram
©Copyright 2004, Society of Interventional Radiology

Radiofrequency energy can be given without affecting a patient's overall health, and most people can resume their usual activities in a few days. It is a safe, minimally invasive tool for local pulmonary tumor control with negligible mortality, little morbidity, short hospital stay and positive gain in quality of life. Lung function is generally better preserved after RFA than after surgical removal of a tumor. This is especially important for those whose ability to breathe is impaired, such as current or former cigarette smokers. It can also be repeated if necessary or combined with other treatment options.

Interventional radiologists work closely with the oncology and surgical specialists to plan the best treatment plan for cancer patients. The treatment is widely available in the United States at all major institutions and some smaller institutions as well. It is usually covered by health insurance.


[1] Abstract 106, 'Long-term Follow-up After Percutaneous Pulmonary Radiofrequency Ablation,' can be found at http://www.SIRmeeting.org.

Source: Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR)"