The efficacy of a new high-intensity focused ultrasound therapy for metastatic pancreatic cancer

Abstract

PURPOSE: To compare the survival benefit, pain control and safety of low-power cumulative and traditional high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) for metastatic pancreatic cancer. METHOD: We retrospectively analyzed 55 patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer who received HIFU treatment between January 2008 and April 2014 in our department. 23 patients received low-power cumulative HIFU treatment (L group), 32 received the traditional HIFU treatment (T group). Performance status, cancer-related pain and serum biochemistry results were assessed before and after treatment. All patients were followed up until death. The survival rate and adverse events of the two groups were compared. RESULTS: = 0.000). The 3-month and 6-month survival rates were higher in the L group. The adverse events in both groups included abdominal pain, elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) and elevated amylase. The incidence was lower in the L group than in the T group. CONCLUSION: Compared with traditional HIFU treatment, low-power cumulative HIFU treatment showed a significantly higher pain relief rate and survival benefit with a better safety profile in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer.