TITLE:
Spectrum of imaging and characteristics for liver tumors treated with irreversible electroporation
AUTHORS:
Robert E. Neal II, Wa Cheung, Helen Kavnoudias, Kenneth R. Thomson
KEYWORDS:
IRE, Pictorial Review; Non-Thermal Focal Ablation; Minimally Invasive Surgery; Medical Imaging
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Biomedical Science and Engineering,
Vol.5 No.12A,
December
31,
2012
ABSTRACT: Therapeutic irreversible
electroporation (IRE) is a relatively new technique for targeted tumor ablation. Needle electrodes are placed into or around the targeted region to deliver a
series of brief electric pulses that disrupt cell membrane integrity, killing cells in a non-thermal manner that does not
affect the extracellular matrix or sensitive structures such as major
vasculature and bile ducts; making IRE an advantageous
technique, especially for tumors that are unresectable or ineligible for
thermal ablation. Here, we
present on the imaging findings from IRE liver tumor treatments from ultrasound, computed tomography,
magnetic resonance, and positron emission tomography. Imaging aids planning and implementing treatments by
visualizing the targeted volume and guiding electrode placement. Immediate changes
to the affected IRE region may be observed to verify complete ablation of the
tumor with margin during the procedure, and permits follow-up evaluation of
clinical outcome. In particular, we present tumor treatments in regions adjacent to sensitive structures that contraindicate thermal therapies.