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Semin intervent Radiol 2019; 36(05): 392-397
DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1697003
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Hepatic Microwave Ablation in Challenging Locations

Amanda R. Smolock
1   Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
,
Colette Shaw
1   Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
02 December 2019 (online)

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Abstract

In recent years, there has been increased utilization of microwave ablation (MWA) in the treatment of soft tissue tumors. MWA has several theoretical advantages over radiofrequency ablation (RFA) by achieving a more rapid and sustained heating of tissues, increased efficacy in tissues with poor thermal conductivity, and less susceptibility to heat sink effect. While its greater power output has led to appropriate caution when applying this energy to soft tissue tumors, many commonly held beliefs regarding contraindications to MWA are unsupported by data and have been passed along based on experience with RFA. The goal of this article is to review the use of MWA in challenging clinical situations along with the existing evidence for its use.

Keywords

microwave ablation - tumor ablation - liver transplant - contraindications
 

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