From May 15 to 17, 2026, the inaugural academic conference of the World Ablative Therapies Association (WATA 2026) was held at the Sheraton Beijing New Qinghai Hotel. As a key component of the congress, the Lung Tumor Ablation Sub-Forum featured four consecutive high-density academic sessions, presenting a comprehensive panorama of cutting-edge advances and Chinese experience in the field, spanning technological innovation, evidence-based decision-making, and complication management. Dozens of leading experts from both sides of the Taiwan Strait and around the world gathered to deliver an academic feast where ideas and skills merged, focusing on diverse technologies such as microwave, cryoablation, cold electrolysis, and transbronchial ablation, combined with innovative models like hybrid operating rooms and robotic assistance.
Lung Tumor Ablation Sub-Forum (I)
Time: May 16, 13:30–15:30
This session was co-moderated by Gang Niu (The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, China), Chen Liu (Peking University Cancer Hospital, China), and Mu Hu (Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, China). The three moderators worked seamlessly together, precisely controlling the pace throughout the two-hour academic discussion and guiding questions and dialogue in a timely manner, creating an efficient and vibrant atmosphere for academic exchange. This session focused on cutting-edge technological exploration and complex case management in lung tumor ablation. Six speakers delivered high-level presentations on topics including hybrid operating room models, transbronchial ablation, complex case decision-making, ablation in patients with combined pulmonary fibrosis, and robot-assisted cryoablation.
Shun-Mao Yana (National Taiwan University Hospital, Taiwan, China): The Hybrid Operating Room Paradigm for Transthoracic Microwave Lung Ablation
Prof. Shun-Mao Yana from National Taiwan University Hospital, Taiwan, China, delivered an important opening presentation. He systematically introduced innovative practices in performing transthoracic microwave lung tumor ablation in a hybrid operating room environment. He noted that the hybrid operating room seamlessly integrates intraoperative imaging, surgical procedures, and ablation therapy, enabling real-time navigation and precise needle placement. This "one-stop" strategy significantly improves treatment safety and completeness, especially for lung tumors adjacent to great vessels, the diaphragm, or the heart.
Shun-Mao Yana giving a presentation
Jia-Yuan Sun (Shanghai Chest Hospital, China): Transbronchial Ablation for Treatment of Peripheral Lung Cancer
Prof. Jia-Yuan Sun from Shanghai Chest Hospital shared the latest explorations in transbronchial ablation for peripheral lung cancer. He introduced the technical approach of transbronchial ablation guided by robotic bronchoscopy combined with cone-beam CT, emphasizing that this technique leverages the advantages of natural orifice access to effectively avoid risks associated with transthoracic puncture, offering a novel minimally invasive solution for patients with inoperable or high-risk peripheral lung cancer, with broad prospects.
Jia-Yuan Sun giving a presentation
Prof.Balazs Futacsi (Eszak-budai Szent Janos Centrumkorhaz, Hungary): Patient Selection, Imaging Assessment, and the Management of Treatment Boundaries in Complex Cases
Prof. Balazs Futacsi from Észak-budai Szent János Centrumkórház, Hungary, brought an international perspective. He emphasized that in complex cases, rigorous patient selection, multidimensional imaging evaluation, and precise ablation margin management are the three pillars determining treatment success. Drawing on European clinical practice, he proposed an individualized decision-making framework for ablation and advocated a prognosis-oriented comprehensive assessment system, provoking deep thought among attendees.
Balazs Futacsi giving a presentation
Xiao-Guang Li (Beijing Hospital, China): Ablation Therapy for Early-Stage Lung Cancer with Pulmonary Interstitial Fibrosis
Prof. Xiao-Guang Li from Beijing Hospital focused on special populations. For patients with early-stage lung cancer complicated by pulmonary fibrosis, lung reserve function is poor and surgical risk is extremely high, making ablation an important option. He deeply analyzed the difficulties of ablation in such patients, including increased puncture risk, poor tolerance, and the potential for postoperative acute exacerbation, and shared his team’s valuable experience in indication selection, ablation parameter optimization, and perioperative lung protection.
Xiao-Guang Li giving a presentation
Hai-Peng Yu (Tianjin Medical University Cancer Instifute & Hospital, China): CT-Guided InterventionalRobotic Cryoablation for Lung Cancer: A Single-Center Experience in China
Prof. Hai-Peng Yu from Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital shared his single-center experience. He presented clinical data on CT-guided interventional robotic-assisted cryoablation, pointing out that the robotic system offers significant advantages in improving puncture accuracy, shortening the learning curve, and optimizing ablation margin control. It is particularly suitable for small deep-seated lesions or complex cases requiring multi-needle combination ablation, with promising technical prospects.
Hai-Peng Yu giving a presentation
Yan-Wei Chen (The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, China): Robot-assisted cryoablation for pulmonary nodules and lung cancer
Prof. Yan-Wei Chen from the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University delivered the concluding presentation of Sub-Forum (I). He focused on the clinical application of robot-assisted technology in cryoablation of pulmonary nodules. He systematically introduced the technical advantages of robotic systems in puncture planning, real-time navigation, and multi-needle combination arraying. Using rich case data from his center, he demonstrated the significant effectiveness of robot-assisted cryoablation in improving ablation precision and reducing complications, providing strong evidence for the direction of intelligent ablation therapy.
Yan-Wei Chen giving a presentation
Lung Tumor Ablation Sub-Forum (II)
Time: May 16, 15:50–17:50
This session was co-moderated by Mai-Lin Chen (Peking University Cancer Hospital, China), Yana Zhao (The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, China), and Hong-Tao Zhang (Hebei Provincial People's Hospital, China). With their extensive clinical experience and keen academic insight, the three moderators led in-depth discussions on lung metastases, high-risk nodules, and novel ablation technologies, fostering frequent interaction and a lively atmosphere. The five presentations covered topics ranging from micrometastases to early-stage lung cancer and cold electrolysis, showcasing the broad application landscape of ablation therapy.
Prof.Aramayis Galumyan (Interventional Radiology Center, Armenia): Technical approaches and results of lung micro-metastatic lesions CT guided ablations
Prof. Aramayis Galumyan from the Interventional Radiology Center, Armenia, shared the technical system for ablation of pulmonary micrometastases. He introduced precise localization strategies and ablation methods for multiple, small pulmonary metastatic foci and presented single-center follow-up results, confirming the important value of ablation in controlling oligometastasis and prolonging patient survival.
Aramayis Galumyan giving a presentation
Xiao-Dong Wang (Peking University Cancer Hospital, China): Current status of image guided ablation forcolorectal cancer lung metastases
Prof. Xiao-Dong Wang from Peking University Cancer Hospital systematically reviewed the current status of ablation for colorectal cancer lung metastases. Based on evidence-based medicine, he compared the efficacy and applicable scenarios of radiofrequency, microwave, and cryoablation in pulmonary metastases, and discussed the optimal timing and synergistic effects of combining local ablation with systemic therapy, providing clear guidance for multidisciplinary clinical decision-making.
Xiao-Dong Wang giving a presentation
Feng-Lei Yu (Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, China): Key Issues and Solutions in Percutaneous Microwave Ablation of High-Risk Pulmonary Nodules
Prof. Feng-Lei Yu from the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University focused on the core challenges of ablating high-risk pulmonary nodules. He analyzed key technical difficulties, including puncture path design, thermal field distribution control, and protection of adjacent vital structures, and used typical cases to detail practical strategies for complication prevention and emergency management. The content was highly practical.
Feng-Lei Yu giving a presentation
Yang Ni (Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, China): Application and Progress of Microwave Ablation in Early-Stage Lung Cancer
Prof. Yang Ni from Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University reviewed the evolution of microwave ablation in the treatment of early-stage lung cancer. Drawing on the latest domestic and international research, he analyzed long-term efficacy data of microwave ablation in inoperable early-stage lung cancer and pointed out the complementary relationships among microwave ablation, stereotactic body radiotherapy, and minimally invasive surgery, providing an important reference for individualized treatment planning.
Yang Ni giving a presentation
Ya-Dan Li (The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, China): Clinical Trials of Cryoelectrolysis for the Treatment of Lung Cancer
Prof. Ya-Dan Li from the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University presented clinical research results on a cutting-edge technology – cryoelectrolytic ablation. He explained the characteristics of cryoelectrolysis, which induces tumor cell apoptosis via electric field effects while preserving the extracellular matrix, and compared it with traditional thermal ablation. Preliminary data suggest that this technology can more effectively protect surrounding normal structures while precisely eradicating tumors, adding a new tool to the lung ablation armamentarium.
Lung Tumor Ablation Sub-Forum (III)
Time: May 17, 08:30–10:10
This session was co-moderated by Prof. Chen Liang (Jiangsu Provincial Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, China) and Prof. Sun Lei (The First Hospital of China Medical University, China). The two moderators skillfully facilitated and provided incisive commentary throughout, promoting practical exchanges on multi-technique combination and complication management in lung tumor ablation. This session focused on key topics such as percutaneous cryoablation combined with bronchoscopic treatment, multimodal thermal ablation, complication management, and preoperative evaluation. Five reports closely followed clinical hotspots and were rich in content.
Hong-Wu Wang (Dongzhimen Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, China): The combination of percutaneous lung cryoablation and interventional bronchoscopy for the treatment of central lung carcinoma
Prof. Hong-Wu Wang from Dongzhimen Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine opened the session. He systematically introduced the innovative technical approach of percutaneous lung cryoablation combined with interventional bronchoscopy for central lung cancer. He noted that central lung cancer is extremely difficult to treat due to its proximity to the main airways and great vessels. Cryoablation combined with bronchoscopic interventional therapy can leverage synergistic advantages to effectively eradicate the tumor while maintaining airway patency, providing a safe and feasible comprehensive treatment strategy for such complex cases.
Hong-Wu Wang giving a presentation
Ji-Jin Yang (Changhai Hospital, Shanghai, China): Multimodal Thermal Ablation for the Treatment of Metastatic Pulmonary Cancer from Colorectum: A Preliminary Study
Prof. Ji-Jin Yang from Changhai Hospital shared preliminary research results on multimodal thermal ablation for colorectal cancer lung metastases. He introduced the clinical practice of combining different thermal ablation modalities such as radiofrequency ablation and microwave ablation, and analyzed the flexibility and advantages of a multimodal strategy in addressing complex situations such as varying sizes and locations of lung metastases. The preliminary data are encouraging and provide new ideas for individualized ablation of lung metastases.
Ji-Jin Yang giving a presentation
Hai-Bo Shao (The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, China): Complications of Cryoablation for Pulmonary Nodules: Identification and Management
Prof. Hai-Bo Shao from the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University systematically explained the identification and management of common complications of pulmonary nodule cryoablation. Starting from the mechanisms of common complications such as pneumothorax, bleeding, and pleural effusion, combined with imaging findings and clinical symptoms, he proposed early identification points and graded management protocols. He also shared practical operational tips and perioperative management experiences to reduce complication rates, offering highly clinically relevant guidance.
Hai-Bo Shao giving a presentation
Xia Yang (Department of Oncology, Shandong First Medical University, China): Facilitating Combined Biopsy and Percutaneous MW Ablation for Pulmonary GGNs Using Lipiodol localisation
Prof. Xia Yang from Shandong First Medical University demonstrated the value of iodized oil localization-assisted technology in one-stop diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary ground-glass nodules. She detailed the procedure and timing of iodized oil localization, analyzed the important role of iodized oil marking in improving puncture accuracy and shortening procedure time, and, using abundant clinical cases, shared valuable insights on safely and efficiently performing combined biopsy and microwave ablation.
Xia Yang giving a presentation
Mai-Lin Chen (Peking University Cancer Hospital, China): Preoperative Assessment for CT-Guided Percutaneous Lung Tumor Ablation: Review
Prof. Mai-Lin Chen from Peking University Cancer Hospital, from a systematic review perspective, outlined the core elements of preoperative evaluation for CT-guided percutaneous lung tumor ablation. The presentation covered general condition and cardiopulmonary function assessment, tumor characterization, and puncture path planning and risk evaluation. He emphasized that standardized preoperative evaluation is the cornerstone of successful ablation, providing a systematic theoretical framework for establishing safe and standardized operating procedures.
Mai-Lin Chen giving a presentation
Lung Tumor Ablation Sub-Forum (IV)
Time: May 17, 10:30–12:10
This session was co-moderated by Prof. Yu Guohua (Weifang People's Hospital, China) and Prof. Sun Lei (The First Hospital of China Medical University, China). Throughout the session, the two experts precisely controlled the pace and skillfully facilitated deep discussions on cryoablation, ablation margins, postoperative infection, spectral CT, and bleeding risk, making the entire meeting efficient, orderly, and highly interactive.
Tong-Guo Si (Tianjin Medical University Cancer Hospital and Institute, China): Cryoablation of lung tumors
Prof. Tong-Guo Si from Tianjin Medical University Cancer Hospital and Institute systematically elaborated on the application of cryoablation in lung tumors. Starting from mechanisms such as ice crystal injury and microvascular thrombosis, combined with a large number of clinical cases from his center, he introduced the indications and operative key points of cryoablation in inoperable or recurrent lung cancer, demonstrating the unique advantages of cryoablation in local control and safety.
Tong-Guo Si giving a presentation
Jian-Jun Han (Shandong Cancer Hospital, China): Determination of Ablation Margins for Pulmonary Tumor
Prof. Jian-Jun Han from Shandong Cancer Hospital focused on ablation margin, a core quality control issue. He emphasized that an adequate ablation margin is fundamental to reducing local recurrence. Using image guidance, he explained methods and criteria for accurately judging the ablation range in preoperative planning, intraoperative monitoring, and postoperative evaluation, sharing practical experience derived from extensive clinical practice, which resonated widely.
Jian-Jun Han giving a presentation
Xin Zhang (The First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, China): Analysis of Causes and Countermeasures for Postoperative Infections Following Thermal Ablation of Lung Tumors
Prof. Xin Zhang from the First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital systematically analyzed post-thermal ablation infections. She categorized infection risk factors into three levels: patient baseline status, procedural factors, and postoperative management, and accordingly proposed a comprehensive set of prevention and monitoring strategies. She emphasized that standardized perioperative management and individualized assessment are key to reducing infection rates, providing an important reference for improving ablation safety.
Xin Zhang giving a presentation
Ya-Qiong Ma (Gansu Provincial Hospital, China): The Application Value of Spectral CT in Lung Biopsy
Prof. Ya-Qiong Ma from Gansu Provincial Hospital demonstrated the unique value of spectral CT multiparametric imaging in lung puncture biopsy. Using specific examples, she illustrated the advantages of spectral CT in precise localization, improving biopsy positivity rates, and reducing complications, and looked forward to the development trend of deep integration of novel imaging technologies and interventional diagnosis and treatment, leaving attendees full of expectations for the future of image guidance.
Ya-Qiong Ma giving a presentation
Dai-Lun Hou (Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, China): Risk Factors for Intrapulmonary Hemorrhage Formation in Patients with Stage I Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treated with Synchronous Microwave Ablation Combined with Percutaneous Biopsy
The team of Prof. Dai-Lun Hou from Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, presented an original clinical study. Focusing on the innovative model of simultaneous microwave ablation combined with biopsy, the team systematically analyzed risk factors for intraoperative intrapulmonary hemorrhage in patients with stage I non-small cell lung cancer, proposing strategies to reduce bleeding risk, such as optimizing puncture paths and rationally selecting ablation parameters. This provides high-level evidence for the safe clinical application of this efficient combined technique.
Prof. Dai-Lun Hou’s team giving a presentation
The four units of academic discussion at the WATA 2026 Lung Tumor Ablation Sub-Forum were like a precise and grand disciplinary scroll, progressing through technological innovation, evidence-based decision-making, and safety quality control, fully displaying the convergence of Chinese wisdom and international perspectives. We look forward to lung tumor ablation, this minimally invasive sharp tool, driven by both standardization and innovation, bringing new hope to more lung cancer patients worldwide.
