Three dimensional correlation of MR images to muscle tissue response for interventional MRI thermal ablation

We are treating tumors using radiofrequency (RF) ablation under interventional MRI (iMRI) guidance. We investigated the ability of MR to monitor the treated region by comparing MR thermal lesion images to cellular damage as seen histologically. Our new methodology allows 3D registration that should enable more accurate correlation than previous 2D methods. Using a low-field (0.2T) open magnet iMRI system for probe guidance, we applied RF ablation to the thigh muscle of four New Zealand White rabbits. To relate in vivo MR and histology images, we obtained intermediate ex vivo MR images and pictures of thick tissue slices obtained using a specially designed apparatus. Registration was done with a computer algorithm that matches tracks of needle fiducials placed near the tissue of interest. After registration, we determined the region inside the circular, hyperintense rim in MR closely corresponds to the region of necrosis as determined by histology on animals sacrificed 30 minutes after ablation. This is good evidence that iMRI images can be used for real-time feedback during thermal RF ablation treatments.