Precision oncology: The role of minimally-invasive ablation therapy in the management of solid organ tumors

Abstract

Solid organ tumors present a significant healthcare challenge, both economically and logistically, due to their high incidence and treatment complexity. In 2023, out of the 1.9 million new cancer cases in the United States, over 73% were solid organ tumors. Ablative therapies offer minimally invasive solutions for malignant tissue destruction in situ, often with reduced cost and morbidity compared to surgical resection. This review examines the current Food and Drug Administration-approved locoregional ablative therapies (radiofrequency, microwave, cryogenic, high-intensity focused ultrasound, histotripsy) and their evolving role in cancer care. Data were collected through a comprehensive survey of the PubMed-indexed literature on tumor ablation techniques, their clinical indications, and outcomes. Over time, emerging clinical data will help establish these therapies as the standard of care in solid organ tumor treatment, supported by improved long-term outcomes and progression-free survival.

Keywords: Minimally-invasive; Non-invasive; Solid organ tumor; Ablation; Locoregional

Core Tip: Minimally invasive tumor ablation techniques, including radiofrequency ablation, microwave ablation, cryoablation, high-intensity focused ultrasound, and histotripsy offer substantial benefits in treating solid organ tumors. These techniques provide effective localized treatment that minimizes damage to surrounding tissues, reduces recovery times, and enhances patient outcomes. Their evolving role in precision oncology demonstrates the potential to tailor interventions to individual patient needs, significantly improving therapeutic efficacy and patient care.