Percutaneous cryoablation for the treatment of extra‐abdominal desmoid tumors

BACKGROUND: Desmoid tumors are rare locally invasive, benign neoplasms that develop along aponeurotic structures. Current treatment is complicated by associated morbidity and high recurrence rates. METHODS: A retrospective, single‐institution review identified 23 patients (age: 16‐77) with extra‐abdominal desmoid tumors who received CT‐guided percutaneous cryoablation as either a first‐line (61%) or salvage (39%) treatment in 30 sessions between 2014 and 2018. Median maximal lesion diameter was 69 mm (range: 11‐209). Intent was curative in 52% and palliative in 48%. Contrast‐enhanced cross‐sectional imaging was obtained before and after treatment in addition to routine clinical follow‐up. RESULTS: Technical success was achieved in all patients. The median follow‐up was 15.4 months (3.5‐43.4). Symptomatic improvement was demonstrated in 89% of patients. At 12 months, the average change in viable volume was −80% (range −100% to + 10%) and response by modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (mRECIST) was CR 36%, PR 36%, and SD 28% No rapid postablation growth or track seeding was observed. Four patients underwent repeat cryoablation for either residual or recurrent disease. Two patients sustained a major procedural complication consisting of significant neuropraxia. CONCLUSION: Cryoablation for desmoid tumors demonstrates a high degree of symptom improvement and local tumor control on early follow‐up imaging with relatively low morbidity.