Is Non-Surgical Desmoid Tumour Treatment Possible? How Does Microwave Ablation Work?
Hello, I am Prof. Dr. Aykut Recep Aktaş. My specialisation is Interventional Radiology, a branch of modern medicine that offers innovative and minimally invasive solutions. Today, we will discuss microwave ablation, a groundbreaking non-surgical method for treating desmoid tumours, and how this technique works.
What is a Desmoid Tumour?
Desmoid tumours are rare, benign, yet potentially aggressive tumours originating from connective tissue. They typically occur in soft tissues such as muscle, fascia, or aponeurosis. While they can appear anywhere in the body, the abdominal wall, extremities, and intra-abdominal regions are the most common sites. Due to their tendency to infiltrate surrounding tissues, they can be challenging to surgically remove and may exhibit high recurrence rates.
Non-Surgical Treatment Approach: Microwave Ablation
Traditionally, surgical intervention has been considered the primary option for treating desmoid tumours. However, surgery can lead to significant morbidity, particularly when the tumour is close to critical anatomical structures. This is where the minimally invasive methods we, as interventional radiology specialists, employ come into play. Microwave ablation is an increasingly preferred, effective, and safe alternative for desmoid tumour treatment.
How Does Microwave Ablation Work?
Microwave ablation is performed by inserting a very thin antenna into the tumour under imaging guidance (typically with ultrasound or computed tomography). This antenna emits microwave energy, creating high temperatures (usually 60-100°C) within the tumour tissue. These high temperatures denature the proteins of the tumour cells and rupture their cell membranes, leading to necrosis (tissue death) within the tumour. Consequently, the tumour shrinks or is completely destroyed and absorbed by the body.
Advantages Over Surgery
Microwave ablation offers several significant advantages over surgery for desmoid tumour treatment:
- Minimally Invasive: Instead of a surgical incision, only a pinhole-sized entry is made. This means less pain, lower risk of infection, and better cosmetic outcomes.
- Faster Recovery: Patients can usually be discharged on the same day or return to their normal activities quickly after a short hospital stay.
- Organ and Function Preservation: Especially in tumours close to critical organs or nerves, microwave ablation can target the tumour with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissues, helping to preserve organ functions.
- Suitability for Recurrent Tumours: It can be safely applied even in tumours that have previously undergone surgical intervention and have recurred.
- Anaesthesia: It can usually be performed under local anaesthesia and sedation, making it a safer option for patients who do not carry the risks of general anaesthesia.
Suitable Patient Profile
Microwave ablation may not be suitable for every desmoid tumour patient. The most appropriate candidates are:
- Patients whose tumour size and location are suitable for ablation.
- Patients who are not suitable for surgery or have high surgical risks.
- Patients with tumours that have been previously surgically removed but have recurred.
- Patients seeking a minimally invasive treatment with expectations of rapid recovery.
Success Rates and Recovery Process
Success rates for desmoid tumour treatment with microwave ablation vary depending on factors such as tumour size, location, and the patient's general condition, but highly encouraging results are reported in the literature. The aim is complete tumour destruction or significant tumour regression. Post-procedure, patients may generally experience mild pain or discomfort, but this can usually be easily managed with painkillers. The recovery period is typically short, and most patients can return to their daily lives within a few days.
Our Approach at Our Antalya Clinic
At our clinic in Antalya, we successfully apply the latest imaging techniques and advanced minimally invasive methods such as microwave ablation for the diagnosis and treatment of desmoid tumours with our experienced team. Each patient's condition is individually assessed, and the most suitable and personalised treatment plan is created. Our priority is the comfort of our patients and achieving the best clinical outcomes.
You Might Also Be Interested In:
The non-surgical treatment options offered by interventional radiology are not limited to desmoid tumours. Minimally invasive methods are also successfully used in the treatment of many diseases in different parts of the body. For example, our clinic offers specialised treatment options for conditions such as fusion biopsy for more accurate diagnosis of prostate diseases, fibroid treatment affecting women's health, or thyroid ablation as a non-surgical solution for thyroid nodules. These modern approaches offer great hope for patients who fear surgery or have surgical risks. Please contact us for detailed information and to arrange a consultation to assess your condition.
To determine if microwave ablation is a suitable option for your desmoid tumour treatment, it is crucial to consult an experienced interventional radiology specialist. Every case is unique and requires a detailed assessment.
Wishing you healthy days.