History of radiofrequency needle ablation

Radiofrequency ablation has a long history of development, so the technology has been continuously improved and mature, and the efficacy is definite. Radiofrequency ablation needle has been developed from the initial monopole to multi-pole. The effective ablation range of monopole is small, and the effect of monopole is poor for large tumors, which is why the current cluster multi-pole needle is available. It has been proved that if a spherical lesion with a diameter of 4cm is used to treat a tumor with a diameter of 7cm, 22 spots are needed to cover the tumor completely (practical operation is difficult). Using a 5cm diameter spherical damage stove, also need 12 points. In response, American RITA has developed a series of radiofrequency needles that target tumors of different sizes. [1]

Individualized radiofrequency ablation needles can be used for tumors with a diameter of less than 3cm. However, due to the influence of temperature conduction, the lesion size of various monopole needles is small, and the damage to tumors larger than 3cm will not be complete. Even if the tumors are damaged by monopole needles in multiple points, they cannot be completely covered. The damage to the normal lung tissue of patients is also greater. The second-generation anchor multi-pole needle developed by RITA Corporation has a maximum ablation diameter of more than 5cm, so it is suitable for all tumors below 5cm. Tumors with a diameter of 5cm to over 7cm should be selected the latest third generation of superneedle. Studies have proved that if a spherical lesion with a diameter of 4cm is used to treat a tumor with a diameter of 7cm, 22 points are needed to cover the tumor completely (practical operation is difficult). Using a 5cm diameter spherical damage stove, also need 12 points. RITA Corporation of America recently developed the third generation of super multi-pole needle, one ablation diameter of more than 7cm, and the use of a special injection pump, so that the heat conduction faster and more uniform, significantly shortened the treatment time, treatment of large tumors more accurate effect, more relaxed patients.

Generally, local anesthesia is used, CT scan is used to locate the tumor, and (percutaneous) puncture is performed on the tumor according to the measured distance and Angle. After the electrode is inserted into the center of the tumor, the electrode is expanded and radiofrequency ablation is performed.