Percutaneous pulmonary tumor ablation

Background and indications

Percutaneous lung ablation is offered for small lung tumors (primary or metastatic) in patients who cannot undergo surgery or who prefer a minimally invasive alternative. It generally targets tumors smaller than 3 cm.

Benefits

This procedure destroys the tumor without opening the chest, with rapid recovery and maximum preservation of healthy lung tissue. It can be repeated if new lesions appear.

Procedure

Under general anesthesia, the patient is positioned in a CT scanner. The radiologist inserts a needle through the chest wall into the tumor. Ablation is performed by radiofrequency, microwave or cryoablation. The procedure lasts 30 minutes to 1.5 hours.

Risks

Pneumothorax (air between lung and chest wall) is the most common complication (20-30%), sometimes requiring a small drain. Intrapulmonary bleeding (hemoptysis) or pleural effusion may occur less frequently.

Recovery and follow-up

A 1-2 night hospital stay is typical. A chest X-ray is performed a few hours later to check for pneumothorax. Follow-up CT scan at 1 month then regularly.

Practical information

General anesthesia. Hospital stay: one to two nights.