Radiofrequency induced thermotherapy: an alternative palliative treatment modality in head and neck cancer

Bipolar radiofrequency induced thermotherapy (RFITT) is a minimally invasive electrosurgical technique characterized by a precise controllable effect in the tissue. It has demonstrable efficacy, safety and reproducibility in the management of solid malignancies. Our aim was to assess the morbidity and efficacy of RFITT as a palliative treatment of head and neck cancer. Prospective, non-randomized case series and analysis. After evaluation by the multidisciplinary Head and Neck Tumour Board at Helsinki University Central Hospital, Finland, 12 consecutive patients with a head and neck cancer without curative treatment possibilities were enrolled into the study. Five patients had pharyngeal carcinomas, one had an unknown primary tumour growing through the skin on the neck, two had a recurrent malignant melanoma originating from the maxillary sinuses, one had a carcinoma of the tongue, two had laryngeal carcinomas, and one had a recurrent adenoid cystic carcinoma of the parotid gland. RFITT was performed with a CelonLabPrecision® generator using appropriate electrodes. The treatment was administered under local or general anaesthesia. The subjective morbidity of the treatment was evaluated. The response to the treatment was assessed clinically and with radiological imaging when feasible. All but two of the patients received palliation to their disease. RFITT induced clinically a partial response in ten patients, and there were radiological detectable changes. There were no treatment related complications, and the patients tolerated the treatment well. RFITT in head and neck cancer patients is easy to perform, well tolerated, and induces reduction in the tumour mass. Continuous evaluation of RFITT treatment modality is warranted in selected palliative care patients.