Tumor ablation: emerging uses, challenges, and strategic implementation

A green paper by the Network of Expertise in Cancer (JANE-2), High Tech Medical Resources, network on Physical Methods of Tumor Ablation

Abstract

The field of oncology has witnessed remarkable progress with the integration of high-tech innovations in tumor ablation. Tumor ablation therapies, such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation (MWA), cryoablation (Cryo), irreversible electroporation (IRE), and electrochemotherapy (ECT) have evolved beyond conventional boundaries, offering patients less invasive, highly targeted therapeutic options. Since it works across cancer histologies, tumor ablation is being integrated into cancer care at several levels. Tumor ablation is even considered curative in selected patients with small primary or secondary tumors, e.g. in the liver. Furthermore, it is central in treatment of oligometastatic disease or oligoprogression. Finally, ablation is widely used for symptomatic relief when tumors lead to symptoms affecting quality of life. Knowledge about ablative therapies and their inclusion at multidisciplinary team decision making enables effective and more personalized treatment for patients. This review synthesizes emerging applications of these therapies, focusing on artificial intelligence-driven personalization, robotic-assisted precision, and hybrid models combining ablation with systemic treatments, immunotherapy or targeted drug delivery. It also discusses the infrastructural, educational, regulatory, and ethical challenges that influence the clinical adoption of such treatments. Finally, the review presents strategic recommendations for integrating advanced ablation therapies into healthcare systems while ensuring equity, patient trust, and global accessibility.