BACKGROUND: A new method of thermoablation with hot water vapour based on a new type of microtube was developed. This approach allows tumours, with volume and anatomical positions not accessible to other techniques (cryoablation, radiofrequency ablation, laser ablation) to be treated. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The method was tested on a human colon carcinoma grafted subcutaneously in Swiss nude mice and the experiment monitored under magnetic resonance imaging. RESULTS: It was found that 2.52 cal s(-1) per cm3 of tumour were necessary to reduce tumour size. The microtube is built to withstand a large range of temperatures and pressures and is biocompatible. CONCLUSION: A specific feature of this technique is that, besides hot vapour, several types of drugs can be delivered through the same microtube depending of the location, type or size of the tumour. These properties make it a unique device for multi-therapeutic treatments.

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Experimental study on a large animal model of a new thermoablation technique.

BACKGROUND: A novel technique of thermoablation, using a microtube to deliver pulses of hot water vapour, was tested on a large animal model in order to evaluate its efficacy and potential adverse effects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The medical device consisted of a microtube extension connected to a hydropneumatic pump. Pulses of pure water were injected though the microtube where they were heated and delivered as vapour into the target zone. The method was tested on the liver of 12 healthy pigs, either during open surgery or percutaneously under ultrasounds. RESULTS: The technique was efficient and well-tolerated by the animals. Large volumes of necrotic tissue were created in a significantly short time compared to concurrent thermoablative techniques. CONCLUSION: Anticipating human application, this experimental study demonstrated a safe and efficient innovative thermoablation technique. The first human applications have been successfully performed and will be reported soon.

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