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Radiofrequency (RF) Ablation Procedure with the STAR™ Tumor Ablation System

A radiofrequency (RF) ablation procedure performed with the STAR™ Tumor Ablation System is a dramatic step forward in the palliative treatment of metastatic spinal tumors. Accessing the tumor may only require local anesthesia with conscious sedation and a small incision. The entire procedure routinely takes less than 90 minutes to complete.

Procedure Overview

Step 1

During a RF ablation procedure with the STAR Tumor Ablation System, the tumor is approached in a uniportal manner with a series of navigational osteotomes and the steerable SpineSTAR™ Ablation Instrument. Together they enable targeted, precision access to the metastatic spinal tumor.


 

Step 2

Temperature measuring thermocouples located within the SpineSTAR Ablation Instrument provide real-time information that is used to monitor and adjust the RF energy being delivered to the tumor throughout the procedure.


 

Step 3

Once positioned appropriately, the articulating electrode of the SpineSTAR Ablation Instrument is deployed and RF energy is delivered from the MetaSTAR™ RF Generator directly into the tumor. Local temperatures in and around the ablation zone are continuously displayed and physician controlled at all times.


 

Step 4

When it has been determined that, based upon pre-operative planning and intra-operative adjustments, the needed number of radiofrequency ablation cycles and ablation zone temperatures have been reached, the pedicle access may be closed or used for additional physician-determined treatments.

Risks associated with RF ablation therapy.

As with most surgical procedures, serious adverse events can occur. Although the STAR Tumor Ablation System is designed to minimize these risks as much as possible, potential serious adverse events that can occur include:

  • Nerve injury leading to radiculopathy, paresis, or paralysis
  • Damage to surrounding tissue through iatrogenic injury
  • Hemothorax or pneumothorax
  • Unintended puncture wounds
  • Pulmonary embolism
  • Hemorrhage
  • Hematoma
  • Infection
  • Pain

 

 

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Physicians' insights on RF Ablation


STAR Tumor Ablation Procedure