New horizons in MR-controlled and monitored radiofrequency ablation of liver tumours

There is a sustained interest in using magnetic resonance (MR) thermometry to monitor the radiofrequency ablation of liver tumours as a means of visualizing the progress of the thermal coagulation and deciding the optimal end-point. Despite numerous technical challenges, important progress has been made and demonstrated in animal studies. In addition to MR thermometry, MR can now be used for the guidance of the tumour targeting with ‘fluoroscopic’ rapid image acquisition, and it can provide several contrast mechanisms for post-procedural assessment of the extent of the thermal coagulation zone. Challenges of in vivo simultaneous MR thermometry implementation and the current limitations of the thermal dose model for the estimation of the extent of the thermal coagulation zone are discussed. MR imaging could enhance the success of RF ablation of liver tumours due to its potential to provide accurate targeting, monitoring, and post-procedural evaluation.