Radiofrequency Ablation of Spine Metastases: A Clinical and Technical Approach

Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an integral component of the multidisciplinary treatment algorithm for both local tumor control and palliation of painful spine metastases. This minimally invasive therapy complements additional treatment strategies, such as pain medications, systemic chemotherapy, surgical resection, and radiotherapy. The location and size of the metastatic lesion dictate preprocedure planning and the technical approach. For example, ablation of lesions along the spinal canal, within the posterior vertebral elements, or with paraspinal soft tissue extension are associated with a higher risk of injury to adjacent spinal nerves. Additional interventions may be indicated in conjunction with RFA. For example, ablation of vertebral body lesions can precipitate new, or exacerbate existing, pathologic vertebral compression fractures that can be prevented with vertebral augmentation. This article reviews the indications, clinical work-up, and technical approach for RFA of spine metastases.

Early Ambulation Training as Impairment-Driven Rehabilitation in Cancer Patients with Cervical Spine Metastases After Palliative Spine Surgery

Background Cervical spine metastasis worsens the quality of life (QOL) of patients with cancer. While the beneficial effects of surgery have been reported, the detailed course of functional recovery remains unclear, especially in the acute phase of rehabilitation. We previously reported on impairment-driven rehabilitation in patients with thoracic or lumbar level metastases. The present study assessed the effects of an impairment-driven strategy on the early recovery of ambulatory function in patients with cervical spine metastasis. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 13 consecutive patients with cervical neoplastic spinal compression. The patients were those whose primary impairment with spinal instability identified by a multidisciplinary tumor board who underwent palliative spine surgery. In addition, we examined neurological deficits; ambulation status; pathological fracture, collapse, and postoperative implant failure progress; and Barthel Index (BI). Results The average duration of ambulation was 3.75 ± 3.92 days after surgery. One case showed collapse and two showed progressions of paralysis. However, all patients had early ambulation after surgery, except for one patient who developed postoperative cerebral infarction. The BI scores showed an improving tendency; however, the difference before and after rehabilitation was not statistically significant. Conclusions We reviewed the recovery course of ambulation in patients with cervical spine metastases who underwent impairment-driven rehabilitation. Combined with surgery and early mobilization, this strategy may improve the QOL of patients with cancer and cervical spine metastasis.