Ernesto Mazza MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Francesco Mondaini MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Silvia Pradella MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Francesco Gabbrielli MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Ilario Menchi MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Evaluating effectiveness, survival rate and complications of percutaneous CT-guided radiofrequency ablation in patients affected by NSCLC with nodules smaller than 3 cm, ineligible for surgery or with recurrent disease.

Between 2003 and 2008 we performed 37 RFAs under CT guidance in 35 pts (16 females and 19 males; mean age 76.5 years; range 49-87 years) affected by NSCLC. Pts were considered non-surgical candidates due to high ASA score, recurrent disease after lobectomy or explicit refusal of surgery. All pts were affected by NSCLC with 3 or less lesions per hemithorax, nodule size smaller than 3 cm (mean size 1,7 cm; range 0,6-3 cm) without invasion of the hilum or mediastinum (evaluated with CT and PET). 30 pts, ineligible or refusing surgery, received RFA as first treatment, 5 pts had previous surgery (3 lobectomy and 2 pneumonectomy). On the basis of follow-up reports, we estimated survival rate and disease-free interval.  

In all cases we achieved complete necrosis of treated nodules. Pneumothorax rate was 13,5% (5 of 37 RFAs), with a 5% (2 of 37 RFAs) chest tube insertion rate. At a 3 and 6 months follow-up all nodules were reduced in size. Survival rates were respectively at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 years 80%, 60%, 45%, 35% and 30%. Mean hospital length of stay was 2,3 days.

Radiofrequency ablation of NSCLC nodules is an effective treatment for inoperable patients, expecially with nodules smaller than 3 cm with low cost and acceptable incidence of complications.

Radiofrequency ablation of NSCLC nodules smaller than 3 cm is an effective treatment for inoperable patients.

Mazza, E, Mondaini, F, Pradella, S, Gabbrielli, F, Menchi, I, Radiofrequency Ablation in NSCLC Nodules Smaller than 3 cm.  Radiological Society of North America 2009 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 29 - December 4, 2009 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2009/8015044.html