Electrochemotherapy in metastatic epidural spinal cord compression: a review and technical update.

Abstract

This review aims to analyse the safety and clinical efficacy in terms of pain relief and local tumour control, in patients with metastatic epidural spinal cord compression undergoing electrochemotherapy (ECT). Moreover, a recommendation detailing optimal electrodes insertion is proposed with the intent of improving treatment planning. Clinical studies published between 2015 and 2023 were included since this time window is consistent with recent developments in the field of ECT of spinal metastases. In the whole, three articles were included. Results showed that percutaneous image-guided ECT provides effective pain relief with limited procedure-related morbidity, along with local tumour control (complete response 28.5%, 38% partial response, 24% stable disease) at 3- month follow-up in the largest published series so far. In conclusion, ECT should integrate the armamentarium of therapies that are currently being proposed to patients with painful metastatic epidural disease.