BACKGROUNDTo study the biological effects of multi-electrode radiofrequency ablation on pulmonary tissues of rabbits.

METHODSUnder the guidance of computer tomograph, electrodes were inserted into right lungs of New Zealand white rabbits and radiofrequency was performed. The biological effects were observed through CT image and microscopy.

RESULTSCoagulative necrosis was found immediately in ablation area after the procedure. On the 7th postradiofrequency ablation day, fibrous tissues appeared in the necrotic lesions. On the 30th postradiofrequency ablation day, bronchial and alveolar epithelium began to proliferate. Within 60 to 90 days after treatments, the necrotic lesions were almost replaced by normal pulmonary tissues. In group with electrodes into the right hilum, time for treating and initial impedance were significantly different from those with electrodes into the peripheral sites of the right-lower lobes (P < 0.01, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONSMulti-electrode radiofrequency ablation can be safely and effectivly performed in pulmonary tissue and cause coagulative necrosis within a certain extent.