Open AccessThe in vivo tissue effect of endoscopic balloon‐based radiofrequency ablation in treating esophageal squamous cell neoplasia
Author(s) -
Wang Wen-Lun,
Chang I-Wei,
Chen Chien-Chuan,
Chang Chi-Yang,
Tseng Cheng-Hao,
Tai Chi-Ming,
Lin Jaw-Town,
Wang Hsiu-Po,
Lee Ching-Tai
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
ueg journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.667
H-Index - 35
eISSN - 2050-6414
pISSN - 2050-6406
DOI - 10.1177/2050640618755236
Subject(s) - medicine , submucosa , radiofrequency ablation , esophagus , cauterization , ex vivo , ablation , in vivo , radiology , endoscopy , pathology , surgery , microbiology and biotechnology , biology
Background Endoscopic radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a rapidly evolving therapeutic modality for early flat esophageal squamous cell neoplasms (ESCNs). However, the in vivo tissue effects of RFA on the esophageal wall are uncertain. Methods We prospectively enrolled eight patients with flat‐type early ESCNs who were treated with balloon‐based RFA. We evaluated the in vivo tissue effect on the esophagus using endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and the histology of retrieved coagulum. Results The mean tumor length was 6.1 cm, and six of the eight patients achieved a complete response after primary RFA. Real‐time evaluation of the tissue effect showed that the mucosa and submucosal layer were more edematous and thicker after RFA than before the procedure (mean 4.89 vs. 2.04 mm, p <.001), suggesting that the thermal effect of RFA may injure the submucosa. Histological evaluation of retrieved coagulum showed a severe cauterization (burning) effect with extensive cell necrosis; however, four cases had some residual viable neoplastic cells. Even though there were viable cells in the sloughed coagulum, half of the patients still achieved complete remission after RFA. Conclusions Our findings suggest that the thermal effect of RFA may injure the submucosal layer and enable neoplastic epithelium to slough off without “burning.”