Abstract
Background Data: Percutaneously applied interstitial laser hyperthermia (ILH) is a minimally invasive therapy that is currently used in the treatment of liver metastases. Despite its documented efficacy, theoretical considerations and evidence based on animal studies suggest the potential for stimulating tumor growth, especially following surgery. This study investigates the influence of ILH on tumor behaviour in an animal model of colorectal liver metastases. Materials and Methods: A model of colorectal cancer liver metastases in male inbred CBA mice was used. Laser hyperthermia was applied to tumor tissue using a bare optical quartz from a Medilas fibertom 4100 Nd:YAG surgical laser generator. Liver injury by ILH was initially produced in three experimental groups of animals at different time points in the development of metastases. ILH was applied (i) to normal liver 10 days prior to tumor induction, (ii) immediately prior to tumor induction, and (iii) 15 days after tumor induction to achieve approximately 8% liver destruction. Animals were killed 21 days after tumor induction, and the effects of ILH on overall tumor development were compared with controls using stereological assessment of tumor volume and by histology. In a separate experimental group, the effects of ILH on fully established tumors were examined. Suitable tumors were selected 21 days after induction and partially destroyed by ILH at a standard energy setting. Animals were then killed 15 days later, and the growth rate of the residual viable tumors was compared to control tumors having undergone sham procedures. Results: No significant stimulation of tumor growth was evident in any of the experimental groups following ILH, irrespective of the time of application. Incomplete tumor destruction also had no influence on subsequent tumor growth. Conclusion: ILH does not influence the biological characteristics of tumors during any stage of the metastatic process.
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