Radiofrequency Energy for Ablation of Breast Tumors

Results of a clinical feasibility study suggest that radiofrequency energy can be used to safely ablate malignant breast tumors. The trial data were presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America in Chicago (IL, USA).

The study involved 10 patients diagnosed with malignant tumors who underwent ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) immediately prior to their scheduled partial or total mastectomy. The tumors ranged in size from 0.6-2 cm. Following surgery, each tumor was assessed for tumor cell death, which occurred in all cases.

The RFA system used was developed by Rita Medical Systems, Inc. (Mountain View, CA, USA). The system uses radiofrequency energy to heat tissue to a high enough temperature to ablate the tissue or cause cell death. The system has received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the ablation of unresectable liver lesions and soft tissue but does not have specific approval for the ablation of breast tumors.



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