Lung isolation, one-lung ventilation, and continuous positive airway pressure with air for radiofrequency ablation of neoplastic pulmonary lesions

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an emerging therapy that is increasingly being used for the treatment of many different types of tumors. RFA uses percutaneously placed image-guided probes to destroy tissues through localized heating. Injury to adjacent tissues with significant morbidity during RFA has been reported in the literature. We discuss our anesthetic management of patients undergoing RFA of lung tumors. Lung isolation, one-lung ventilation, and nondependent lung continuous positive airway pressure with air can be used to minimize damage to the heart and other important structures.