Abstract: Interstitial laser photocoagulation is a new technique of tumor ablation using low power (2 W) laser light over a long time (500 s) via thin (0.2 mm) optical fibers. We have treated 26 patients with 70 liver metastases measuring 1 to 15 cm (median 2.5 cm). There were 1 to 8 treatment sessions per patient (median 3). Each tumor was treated via 1 to 4 optical fibers. The median energy used was 16000 J (range 3000 to 34000 J). Treatment effects were monitored in real- time with ultrasound, and the extent of tumor necrosis evaluated 1 to 3 days later using dynamic enhanced CT which showed laser-induced necrosis as well- defined new areas of non-enhancement. Greater than 50% necrosis of tumor volume was achieved in 86% (60 out of 70) of the tumors treated, and 100% necrosis in 53% (37 out of 70). Metastases under 4 cm were treated more effectively and required fewer treatment sessions than those over 4 cm. In eleven patients there was evidence of disease progression (follow-up 14 months or longer) and in 15 patients there has been overall tumor reduction (follow- up less than 1 year, median 4 months). Conclusion: With further development, ILP may offer a practical and minimally invasive alternative to major surgery for eradicating small, deep seated tumors, and debulking larger ones.!30
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