How I do it-optimizing radiofrequency ablation in spinal metastases using iCT and navigation.

BACKGROUND: Exact positioning of the radiofrequency ablation (RFA) probe for tumor treatment under fluoroscopic guidance can be difficult because of potentially small inaccessible lesions and the radiation dose to the medical staff in RFA. In addition, vertebroplasty (VP) can be significantly high.

METHOD: Description and workflow of RFA in spinal metastasis using iCT (intraoperative computed tomography) and 3D-navigation-based probe placement followed by VP.

CONCLUSION: RFA and VP can be successfully combined with iCT-based navigation, which leads to a reduction of radiation to the staff and optimal probe positioning due to 3D navigation.