Tong C, Hui YQ, Wang JR. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation: A game-changer in pancreatic cancer treatment. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2026; 18(3): 112974 [DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v18.i3.112974]
Corresponding Author of This Article
Jun-Rong Wang, MD, PhD, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, No. 126 Xiantai Street, Changchun 130022, Jilin Province, China. junrongwang_2019@yeah.net
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Gastroenterology & Hepatology
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Minireviews
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Mar 15, 2026 (publication date) through Mar 12, 2026
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World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology
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1948-5204
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Tong C, Hui YQ, Wang JR. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation: A game-changer in pancreatic cancer treatment. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2026; 18(3): 112974 [DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v18.i3.112974]
World J Gastrointest Oncol. Mar 15, 2026; 18(3): 112974 Published online Mar 15, 2026. doi: 10.4251/wjgo.v18.i3.112974
Endoscopic ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation: A game-changer in pancreatic cancer treatment
Chuan Tong, Yi-Qing Hui, Jun-Rong Wang
Chuan Tong, Yi-Qing Hui, School of Nursing, Jilin Medical University, Jilin 132000, Jilin Province, China
Jun-Rong Wang, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130022, Jilin Province, China
Co-corresponding authors: Yi-Qing Hui and Jun-Rong Wang.
Author contributions: Tong C contributed to the writing and editing of the manuscript, Hui YQ and Wang JR contributed to the literature search, designed the overall concept and outline of the manuscript as co-corresponding authors; all authors have read and approve the final manuscript.
Conflict-of-interest statement: All authors declare no conflict of interest in publishing the manuscript.
Corresponding author: Jun-Rong Wang, MD, PhD, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, No. 126 Xiantai Street, Changchun 130022, Jilin Province, China. junrongwang_2019@yeah.net
Received: August 11, 2025 Revised: November 25, 2025 Accepted: January 4, 2026 Published online: March 15, 2026 Processing time: 213 Days and 6.2 Hours
Abstract
Endoscopic ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation (EUS-RFA) has emerged as a promising minimally invasive treatment option for pancreatic cancer, offering precision and reduced morbidity compared to traditional surgical methods. Recent technological advancements, such as refined monopolar and bipolar electrodes and integrated cooling systems, have significantly improved the precision and safety of EUS-RFA, enabling effective treatment for various pancreatic lesions, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, and cystic lesions. Clinical outcomes demonstrate high technical success rates, with tumor size reduction and symptom palliation, particularly in patients with unresectable or high-risk pancreatic cancer. The combination of EUS-RFA with chemotherapy has shown enhanced tumor control and potentially improved survival, although long-term benefits remain uncertain. Emerging evidence highlights the immunomodulatory effects of EUS-RFA, suggesting its potential to augment systemic anti-tumor immunity, especially when combined with immunotherapies. Despite these promising findings, the role of EUS-RFA in the overall management of pancreatic cancer is still evolving, with limited large-scale randomized trials. Standardization of procedural protocols, patient selection criteria, and comparative effectiveness data are critical areas for future research to solidify EUS-RFA's position in pancreatic cancer treatment.
Core Tip: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation (EUS-RFA) is a promising minimally invasive treatment for pancreatic cancer, particularly in patients with unresectable or high-risk tumors. Recent technological advancements have improved procedural precision and safety, demonstrating high technical success rates and potential symptom palliation. When combined with chemotherapy, EUS-RFA may offer enhanced tumor control and survival benefits, though long-term clinical outcomes require further investigation. Additionally, the immunomodulatory effects of EUS-RFA may augment systemic anti-tumor immunity, offering a potential synergy with immunotherapies. However, larger randomized controlled trials and standardized protocols are needed to fully establish its role in the clinical management of pancreatic cancer.
