The Use of Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator for High-Risk Neuroblastoma with Image-Defined Risk Factors in Children

Abstract

Aim of the study: The cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator (CUSA) has gained popularity in adult surgical oncology, but its application in children is limited to liver surgery and neurosurgical procedures. The complete resection of neuroblastoma with image-defined risk factors (IDRFs) is still considered one of the most difficult procedures to achieve in pediatric surgical oncology, with a high morbidity rate and potential risk of intraoperative mortality. The aim of our study is to describe the application of ultrasonic dissection in neuroblastoma with IDRFs. Methods: A retrospective study was performed, analyzing patients operated on from 2000 to 2018. Patient characteristics, resection completeness, and postoperative surgical and oncology outcomes were analyzed. Main results: Twenty-six patients with high-risk neuroblastoma and IDRFs were operated on in the study period with a CUSA. A complete macroscopic resection was performed in 50% of patients, while the other half was operated on with minimal residual (<5 mL). Six post-operative complications occurred without the need for surgery (Clavien–Dindo < 3). The overall survival was 50%, with a median follow-up of 69.6 months (5.6–140.4). Conclusions: The application of the CUSA in neuroblastoma with IDRFs can be considered an effective and safe alternative technique to achieve a radical resection.