Radiofrequency ablation is recommended for inclusion into benefit catalogue with restrictions for patients with metastatic spinal lesions in Austria

The Ludwig Boltzmann Institute – Health Technology Assessment (LBI-HTA) has published results of systematic literature review of evidence in relation to efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation for patients with metastatic spinal lesions. 

The aim of this assessment was to define whether radiofrequency ablation with or without vertebroplasty (or other add-on therapies) is more effective and safe concerning pain, health-related quality of life and complications in comparison with standard of care. Within the systematic literature review 4 prospective and 5 retrospective single-arm studies were identified and were subsequently included into analysis.

However, potency of upcoming evidence was also considered. Thus, there are three ongoing studies:

• Patients registry (STAR tumor ablation system (NCT02419703)
• Combination of radiofrequency ablation and vertebroplasty (ChiCTR-INR-16010135)
• Combination of thermal ablation and stereotactic sine radiosurgery (NCT02713269)

Quality of evidence was considered as low. In conclusion, LBI-HTA recommended radiofrequency ablation of spinal metastatic lesions for inclusion in benefit catalogue with restrictions. Re-evaluation of current evidence situation is recommended to perform after 2021 due to completion of ongoing studies.

Available evidence indicates that radiofrequency ablation under certain conditions is effective and safe procedure for the treatment of patients with painful metastatic spinal lesions in whom alternative treatment was insufficient or contraindicated. The intervention should only be performed in specialized centers and, if possible, with collection patient records in relation to potential and rare adverse events in patient registry.

See full report in English here.

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