Photomedicine and laser surgery, 2006, 24: 3 - 9

Veenendaal LM, de Jager A, Stapper G, Borel Rinkes IH, van Hillegersberg R.

Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands.

Objective: The aim of this study was to test three techniques used simultaneously to increase lesion size.

Background data: Laser-induced thermotherapy (LITT) is a method of local tumor ablation, which may prolong survival in patients with unresectable liver metastases. The main limitation has been the production of lesions with sufficient tumor-free margin.

Methods: LITT treatment was performed with water-cooled, multiple fiber application and hepatic blood flow occlusion in six patients with unresectable intrahepatic metastases. Response was measured by computed tomography scan.

Results: In all patients, tumors were effectively ablated. In two patients with colorectal metastases, lesions up to 8.6 cm could be created.

Conclusion: The use of watercooled multiple fiber application and hepatic inflow occlusion makes LITT an effective ablative method, expanding the treatment options for patients with large intrahepatic masses.