Multipolar radiofrequency ablation in controlling hemorrhage from blunt liver trauma

Abstract Objective The aim of this study is to investigate the use of multipolar radiofrequency (RF) ablation with internally cooled electrodes to control hemorrhage percutaneously from blunt liver trauma. Methods Blows were used to 10 heparinized and anesthetized domestic pigs, resulting in blunt liver trauma. Eight pigs were percutaneously treated by using multipolar RF ablation with internally cooled electrodes. Two pigs were not treated (control group). The treated pigs were killed humanely 2 hours after the treatment. Results Blunt liver trauma was successfully produced by the application of abdominal impact in all pigs. Hemostasis was achieved in all treated pigs with 8.5 ± 4.5 minutes of RF ablation treatment. No delayed hemorrhage, bile leakage, pus, or other fluid was found in the livers in all treated pigs when they were killed 2 hours after the treatment. Conclusions Multipolar RF ablation with internally cooled electrodes is effective in producing hemostasis percutaneously by direct treatment of injured parenchyma in blunt liver trauma.