MR-guided laser thermoablation of inoperable renal tumors in an open-configuration interventional MR scanner: Preliminary clinical experience in three cases

A minimally invasive technique for performing magnetic resonance (MR)-guide d laser interstitial thermoablation (LITT) for inoperable renal tumors is d escribed, Three patients were treated using a percutaneous technique with r eal-time MR guidance in an open access interventional MR scanner Laser ther apy was delivered using a neodymium-YAG source via a water-cooled applicato r system. Thermal lesions were monitored in real time using a color thermom etry sequence. All patients were discharged the following day with no compl ications. Follow-up with gadolinium-enhanced MRI in a conventional high-fie ld system confirmed necrosis in targeted tissue, and further treatment is p lanned for one patient, We concluded that LITT can be useful in treating in operable renal malignancy and merits further evaluation. (C) 1999 Wiley-Lis s, Inc.