Radiofrequency Ablation of Painful Soft Tissue Neoplasms

This study will examine the efficacy of using radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to treat pain soft tissue metastases not well controlled by conventional methods of treatment, defined as ongoing pain despite maximum pharmacologic interventions, or severe side effects like mental status alteration from medication. Prior experience with similar techniques in the liver, kidney, heart, bones, prostate, lymph nodes, brain, pancreas, and nerve ganglions has found that ablation of a specific volume of tissue with the application of RFA energy is safe and effective. We are hopeful that this method of tissue ablation could assist in the difficult management of patients with painful lesions. The goal will be to reduce pain, or to reduce use of analgesics. Any decrease in strength of opiate used, or in dose equivalent same-medication on a per week basis will be considered significant.