Cool-Tip Radiofrequency Ablation For Unresectable Pancreatic Cancer

Background and Objectives: To report and discuss the effect, complications and mortality of cool-tip radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for unresectable pancreatic cancer.Methods: During September 2002 to August 2004, sixteen patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer were treated by open cool-tip RFA. Nine of the Sixteen patients had tumors located in the pancreatic head. A 5-mm minimum safe distance between RFA site and major peripancreatic vessels was kept to avoid injury to the vessels.Results : Twelve patients with back pain got pain relief postoperatively. Pancreatic fistula occurred in three patients (18.8%) and healed smoothly in 7-10 days with routine abdominal drainage. Three patients died suddenly of massive gastrointestinal hemorrhage and a patient died of acute renal failure. The mortality was 25% (4/16).Conclusion: Radiofrequency ablation seems to provide benefit for unresectable pancreatic cancer. Further studies should be conducted to determine the usefulness of radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of advanced pancreatic cancer.