3D Analysis Improves Image-Guided Liver Ablation Treatment
Revolutionizing Liver Tumor Treatment: 3D Analysis Enhances Ablation Success at Radboudumc
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Radboudumc, Nijmegen – A groundbreaking advancement in the treatment of liver tumors is considerably improving patient outcomes at Radboud University Medical Center (Radboudumc). Interventional radiologist Sjoerd Jenniskens and technical medical specialist Kristian Overduin have spearheaded a new process that leverages 3D analysis during thermal ablation, dramatically reducing tumor recurrence rates and offering patients a faster, more effective recovery.
“Ablation has many advantages for the patient,” explains Overduin.”So far, however, it was arduous to assess whether we have treated all the tumor cells.” This challenge was echoed by oncological surgeon Martijn Stommel, who has collaborated closely wiht the radiology department to optimize imaging in liver tumor treatments.”The chance of cancer return was relatively high in an ablation compared to surgery,” Stommel notes. “By looking together at the working method and technical possibilities, we have come to a new process.”
3D analysis During Treatment: Precision Imaging for Complete tumor Eradication
The cornerstone of this innovative approach is the integration of 3D analysis directly into the ablation procedure. Unlike traditional operating rooms, the ablation at Radboudumc takes place in a specialized suite equipped with a CT scanner.Crucially, immediately following the treatment, while the patient is still under anesthesia, a CT scan is performed.
“Earlier, that CT scan was assessed on view, now we use 3D software for that analysis,” Overduin elaborates. “This creates a much better picture of the tumor. We lay the images over each other from before and after the operation, and see immediately whether the entire tumor is treated. If that is not the case, we can continue with the treatment immediately.” Overduin led a study that rigorously evaluated the results of this new process, confirming its efficacy.
Enhanced Effectiveness and Reduced Recurrence
The outcomes of this enhanced ablation technique are highly promising.The implementation of 3D software analysis has led to a significant decrease in the number of recurring liver tumors within two years post-ablation,plummeting from a previous rate of 33% to less than 10%. Furthermore, the study indicates that patients require fewer repeat treatments.
“Those figures are very extraordinary,” Overduin states with enthusiasm. “This is an importent step towards broader use of ablation for small liver tumors.For patients, that means less risk of complications and a faster recovery.” This advancement aligns with Radboudumc’s commitment to providing cutting-edge, patient-centric care.
Affordable Care Through Smart Technology
The 3D analysis represents a prime example of leveraging technology for tangible patient benefits. “The 3D analysis is a good example of smart use of technology with a direct benefit for the patient,” says overduin, who is also a participant in Radboudumc’s talent programme for promising young scientists. “With this innovation, we contribute to affordable care. Less invasive interventions lead to benefits for the patient, but also to lower costs and less strain on healthcare resources.”
This significant progress is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration. “All of this is the result of close collaboration between oncological surgeons, hepatologists, and interventional radiologists,” Overduin emphasizes. “It is nice to be able to make a significant contribution to that.”
About the Publication
This pioneering research has been published in the esteemed journal Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology. The article, titled “CT-guided Thermal Ablation of Liver Tumors Using Intraprocedural CT-CT Fusion for Applicator Position and Ablation Completeness Assessment: a Single-Center Comparative Analysis,” details the methodology and impressive results achieved at Radboudumc.
Publication Details:
Journal: Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology
Article Title: CT-guided Thermal Ablation of Liver Tumors Using Intraprocedural CT-CT Fusion for Applicator position and Ablation Completeness Assessment: a Single-Center Comparative Analysis
Authors: HM Verdonshot, Sjoerd FM Jenniskens, Peter B. van den Are Boem, Eric Tjwa, John van der Wilt, Jurge JJ Fütin, G. Old G. Account
DOI: 10.1007/s00270-025-04111-w