Title : A novel treatment for advanced bladder cancer using microwave/radiofrequency ablation: Two successful cases
Abstract:
Introduction: Bladder cancer is one of the top 10 most common cancers. Although radical cystectomy (RC) is the standard treatment, it significantly compromises quality of life. This study explores percutaneous ablation as a main treatment combined with multimodal therapy as a bladder-preserving approach for advanced bladder cancer patients unsuitable or unwilling to undergo RC.
Material and Methods: Two patients with advanced bladder cancer underwent ultrasound-guided percutaneous radiofrequency (RF) or microwave ablation. The precise puncture, low-power intermittent ablation, and cold saline irrigation, help protect the bladder wall and minimize damage. Ablation was followed by chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and local radiotherapy to manage residual tumors and metastases. Tumor response, symptom relief, and survival outcomes were assessed through imaging, clinical indicators, and follow-up evaluations.
Results: Both patients experienced significant tumor reduction and symptom control, particularly hematuria. Bladder function improved, and no recurrence was observed during follow-ups (76 and 38 months, respectively). The combined approach resulted in preserved bladder function, improved quality of life, and prolonged survival exceeding 6 years in one case.
Conclusions: Percutaneous RF and microwave ablation, combined with multimodal therapy, show promise as a minimally invasive, bladder-preserving treatment for advanced bladder cancer. This approach effectively reduces tumor burden, controls symptoms, and improves survival outcomes. Further large-scale studies are warranted to validate its efficacy and safety.
Key words: bladder cancer; radiofrequency ablation; microwave ablation; percutaneous ablation; bladder preservation.
