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Endoscopic Radiofrequency Ablation of the Pancreas

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Abstract

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a well-established technique to ablate dysplastic and neoplastic tissue via local thermal coagulative necrosis. Despite the widespread use in management of several cancers, the application of RFA in pancreas has been limited due to the increased risks of complications from the increased sensitivity of pancreatic tissue to thermal injury and proximity to vascular and biliary structures. RFA has been successfully used during laparotomy for locally advanced pancreatic carcinoma but requires an invasive approach. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided RFA offers the best combination of excellent visualization, real-time imaging guidance, and precise localization with minimal invasiveness. Several animal and human studies have demonstrated the technical feasibility and safety of endoscopic RFA in the pancreas. This article provides a comprehensive review of endoscopic RFA in the management of pancreatic lesions.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of New Mexico, MSC10 5550, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA

    Tarun Rustagi

  2. Department of Internal Medicine, Waterbury Hospital, Waterbury, CT, USA

    Ankit Chhoda

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  1. Tarun Rustagi
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  2. Ankit Chhoda
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Correspondence to Tarun Rustagi.

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Rustagi, T., Chhoda, A. Endoscopic Radiofrequency Ablation of the Pancreas. Dig Dis Sci 62, 843–850 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10620-017-4452-y

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