MR-HIFU for Recurrent Gynaecological Cancer

Magnetic Resonance Guided High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (MRgHIFU): A Feasibility Study for Treating Recurrent Gynaecological Malignancies

The primary objective of this pilot study is to determine whether or not it is feasible to use MRgHIFU to treat symptomatic (pain, bleeding) recurrent pelvic malignancy with an acceptable safety profile when conventional treatment options are not available. The ultimate goal is to be able not only to offer a viable method of symptom palliation in patients with recurrent pelvic tumours and improve their quality of life; but also to control tumour growth and extend life in a group of relatively young patients with isolated local recurrence.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients with recurrent pelvic gynaecological malignancy (cervix and endometrial cancer).
• Recurrent lesion is painful (NRS>4) and not suitable for alternative treatments
• Intended target volume accessible for MRgHIFU treatment
• Intended target volume visible on noncontrast MR imaging
• Distance between target and skin ≥1cm

Exclusion Criteria:

• MRI contraindicated (e.g. by incompatible metal implants or claustrophobia)
• Pregnancy
• Sedation contraindicated
• MRI contrast agent contraindicated
• Scar, internal or external fixation device along the beam path or at the target