Non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): 42 patients treated with computed tomography (CT) guided percutaneous microwave ablation

Purpose: To retrospectively evaluate the effectiveness and safety of microwave ablation in 42 patients with NSCLC.Materials and Methods: The last three years, 42 patients were submitted for percutaneous microwave ablation sessions. All tumors were larger than 3cm. The procedure was performed under local anesthesia. A thin (14,5G) antenna was placed directly into the tumor. Duration of each session ranged between 3-12 minutes. Follow-up contrast enhanced CT scans were obtained.Results: Follow up CT scans revealed lack of enhancement in 19 patients (45.2%), partial enhancement in 10 (23.8%), who all underwent a second session and four (9.52%) even a third session. ![Figure][1] ![Figure][1] major complications occurred. No significant worsening in pulmonary function occurred. Post-ablation syndrome was reported in 9 patients (21.42%). Minor complications occurred in a minority of patients; productive cough in 13 patients (25.49%), small pleural effusions in 6 patients (14.28%). Small pneumothorax occurred in 4 patients (9.52%) and was self limited.Conclusion: Microwave ablation is effective and may be safely applied to NSCLC tumors. [1]: pending:yes