Intraductal radiofrequency ablation for management of malignant biliary obstruction

Dig Dis Sci. 2014 Nov;59(11):2635-41. doi: 10.1007/s10620-014-3237-9. Epub 2014 Jun 7.

Abstract

Self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) are the current standard of care for the palliative management of malignant biliary strictures. Recently, endoscopic ablative techniques with direct affect to local tumor have been developed to improve SEMS patency. Several reports have demonstrated the technical feasibility and safety of intraductal radiofrequency ablation (RFA), by both endoscopic and percutaneous approaches, in palliation of malignant strictures of the bile duct. Intraductal RFA has also been used in the treatment of occlusion of both covered and uncovered SEMS occlusion from tumor ingrowth or overgrowth. This article provides a comprehensive review of intraductal RFA in the management of malignant biliary obstruction.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bile Duct Neoplasms / complications*
  • Catheter Ablation*
  • Cholestasis / etiology*
  • Cholestasis / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / complications*