High-frequency jet ventilation for minimizing breathing-related liver motion during percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of multiple hepatic tumours

Movements of the liver caused by spontaneous breathing (during sedation or local anaesthesia) or by ventilation during anaesthesia are a source of concern in CT-guided procedures because of the limited spatial and contrast resolution of unenhanced imaging, artifacts caused by the probes and the relatively low temporal resolution of the fluoroscopy mode. During CT-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA), it is essential that the lesion can be visualized optimally and that the ablation probe is positioned accurately to avoid non-target injuries. We therefore used high-frequency jet ventilation and general anaesthesia to minimize ventilation-related liver movement and provide optimal conditions for a patient undergoing RFA of hepatic metastases. The technical and anaesthetic considerations are discussed, and a specific limitation of transcutaneous PCO(2) measurement during activation of the ablation is reported for the first time.