Bipolar radiofrequency ablation of spinal tumors: predictability, safety and outcome

Multicenter clinical and imaging evaluation of targeted radiofrequency ablation (t-RFA) and cement augmentation of neoplastic vertebral lesions

“…These results are similar to previously published data where the authors showed that RFA of painful osteolytic metastases provides significant pain relief for cancer patients who have failed standard treatments 17. Another study using RFA alone with no cement augmentation to treat 39 spinal metastatic lesions showed significant pain relief and no reported complications 18. Treatment of bone metastases to the spine combining RFA and cementation has resulted in pain relief and minimal complications using commercially available RFA probes originally designed for other parts of the body 19 20.…”

Peri‐procedural Management of Implanted Spinal Cord Stimulators in Patients Undergoing Radiofrequency Ablation: A Case Report and Manufacturer‐Specific Recommendations

“…With monopolar current, if the RFA needle is placed near an SCS lead, there is a risk for damage to the leads, implantable pulse generator, or tissue near the leads (ie, spinal cord) . In contrast to monopolar current, bipolar current poses less risk for current dispersion since the current passes a short distance from one active electrode to another ground electrode . This decreases the risk for interference with devices, such as an SCS device, and allows for precise and predictable ablation near vital structures …”

“…22 In contrast to monopolar current, bipolar current poses less risk for current dispersion since the current passes a short distance from one active electrode to another ground electrode. 23 This decreases the risk for interference with devices, such as an SCS device, and allows for precise and predictable ablation near vital structures. 23 With the exception of a few reports, the type of current used (monopolar vs. bipolar) in the aforementioned literature review was unknown.…”

“…23 This decreases the risk for interference with devices, such as an SCS device, and allows for precise and predictable ablation near vital structures. 23 With the exception of a few reports, the type of current used (monopolar vs. bipolar) in the aforementioned literature review was unknown. In those cases where bipolar RFA was used, there was no malfunction in SCS device functionality.…”

Interventional Radiologist's perspective on the management of bone metastatic disease

“…For patients presenting with painful spinal malignancies extending into the epidural space, the palliative strategy consists of: 1) tumor debulking achieved by means of plasma-mediated RFA and then 2) cementoplasty. The rationale for such strategy is to create a definite and precise cavity within the neoplastic mass not crossing the posterior boundary, 30 which is then filled with PMMA in order to reduce the risk of fracture. Although valuable, experience with this technique is still limited.…”