This systematic review evaluated radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma, prostate cancer and uterine leiomyoma. A systematic literature search in various databases was supplemented by a handsearch.
Concerning RFA for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma, we identified three studies including 359 patients aged 64-68 years. The average tumour size was 2-3 cm. The 5-year-survival rate was 85%, and the recurrence rate in a subgroup of tumors 10%. There was no significant difference in the quality of life after RFA compared to baseline values. RFA for renal cell carcinomas appears to be safe, because only minor complications occurred in up to a quarter of patients.
In terms of RFA for the treatment of prostate cancer, no studies that met the inclusion criteria were identified. It seems, that for this indication other experimental therapeutic options, such as high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), are more relevant than RFA.
Concerning RFA for the treatment of uterine leiomyomas, we identified six studies: One RCT (however, with an inadequate control group: HIFU) and five case series. In total, 352 women aged 39-45 years with an average tumour size of 5 cm were treated with RFA. There was a consistently observed improvement in both quality of life and symptoms 6-24 months after RFA compared to baseline values. RFA appeared to be safe, as can be seen in low complication rates.
Due to the uncontrolled study design of the included case series and the inadequate control group of the included RCT (HIFU) of RFA for the treatment of uterine leiomyoma, the available evidence is insufficient to assess the efficacy and safety of RFA compared to the respective standard therapy for the treatment of urogenital tumours.