Experimental study of image-guided percutaneous microwave ablation in rabbit lung VX2 tumor model.

PURPOSE To investigate the efficacy and safety of percutaneous microwave ablation. METHODS Twenty-six rabbits with lung VX2 tumor were randomly divided into experimental and control group. In the experimental group, microwave ablation guided by ultrasound or CT was performed based on location of the tumor. Enhanced CT scan was carried out immediately before and after the ablation for all animals. Two animals from each group were sacrificed immediately or 1 week after the ablation respectively and the others were followed for the rest of their lives. RESULTS CT scan revealed that the tumor was greatly reduced or ablated after ablation. Pathological examination immediately after ablation also confirmed the tumor reduction or ablation. The survival time of the animals in the experimental group was significantly longer than that in the control group. CONCLUSIONS Microwave ablation is a safe and effective method for treating lung cancer in rabbits, showing potential clinical applicability.