How to treat insulinomas without surgery? The revolution brought about by pancreatic EUS-guided radiofrequency ablation

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Pierre H. Deprez, Ivan Borbath Published in the journal : March 2019 Category : Session de Diabétologie

Summary :

Radiofrequency (RF) is a technique aimed at localized tissue destruction by means of thermal effects. Digestive endoscopy offers multiple potential applications for RF ablation, with some of which currently well-validated. One of its best indications is possibly the ablation of pancreatic insulinomas, given that this technique has revolutionized their management. This easy and simple procedure, associated with a low rate of complications, renders it possible to avoid pancreatic surgery, which is associated with a certain degree of morbidity. However, the technique’s limitations and long-term efficiency still require further validation in prospective trials.

Key Words

Insulinoma, ablation, radiofrequency ablation, endosonography

What is already known about the topic?

Insulinomas are among the best indications for radiofrequency ablation of pancreatic tumors.

What does this article bring up for us?

The description of endosonography-guided radiofrequency ablation and its application in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, particularly insulinomas.