ENDOSCOPIC RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION FOR MALIGNANT BILIARY OBSTRUCTION

Abstract

Endobiliary radiofrequency ablation (RFA), a novel adjunctive procedure, is a promising therapeutic option for malignant biliary obstruction. RFA can achieve local tumor control, with consequent improvement in biliary stent patency and a potential survival benefit in patients with malignant biliary obstruction. However, the efficacy of endobiliary RFA remains controversial. Previous studies have reported conflicting results, which could be attributed to an important limitation of the conventional RFA catheter. In addition to further well-designed randomized controlled trials, development of innovative devices is warranted to investigate and conclusively establish the usefulness of endobiliary RFA. In this review, we summarize the latest evidence with regard to endobiliary RFA for malignant biliary obstruction and discuss the issues that should be addressed in future studies.