103: Fundamentals of Ablation-Fundamentals of Ablation

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In a recent webinar on liver cancer treatments, Dr. Julius Shapiro, an associate professor at Yale School of Medicine, outlined the fundamentals of ablation in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Ablation therapies are categorized into thermal and non-thermal types. Thermal ablation methods include radiofrequency ablation, microwave ablation, and cryoablation, which use heat or cold to destroy cancer cells. Non-thermal methods, such as irreversible electroporation, involve high-voltage electrical pulses to create nanopores in cancer cells, causing apoptosis.<br /><br />For liver cancer, radiofrequency and microwave ablation are the primary options, with specific choices depending on tumor location and proximity to sensitive structures. Ablation is recommended for patients with early-stage liver cancer, especially when surgery poses significant risks. Dr. Shapiro emphasized using advanced ablation confirmation software to ensure high success rates, achieving almost 100% response in straightforward cases.<br /><br />Newer technologies like histotripsy and pulse electric field are emerging, though further clinical trials are necessary to establish their efficacy. Dr. Shapiro underscored the potential for combining ablation with immunotherapy as a promising area for future research. He concluded with several key points, including the importance of selecting appropriate ablation therapies and ensuring thorough procedural planning and follow-up.

Keywords

liver cancer

ablation therapy

hepatocellular carcinoma

radiofrequency ablation

microwave ablation

immunotherapy

Dr. Julius Shapiro