Early outcome of Radiofrequency Ablation in treating Hepatocellular carcinoma in risk locations

Abstract

Background: Radiofrequency ablation is a radical treatment with high efficiency in the very early stages (BCLC 0) and early stages (BCLC A). However, with tumors in risk locations, radiofrequency ablation has many difficulties in determining the tumor on ultrasound and the risk of damage to adjacent organs. Objectives: To evaluate early outcomes of RFA in treating HCC patients in risk locations.

Subjects and methods: 50 HCC patients in risk locations underwent ablation at the radiology center of Bach Mai hospital. Follow up 3 months to evaluate the effectiveness after the treatment.

Results: 50 patients male/ female=41/9, average age = 61.63 years old (35–86). 94% patients with HCC have a history of cirrhosis and 88% patients with HCC have a history of hepatitis. Among the tumors in risk locations, the tumors adjacent to the diaphragmatic accounted for the highest rate of 44%. We infused the artificial ascites in 20 cases(40%) and the pleural effusion in 14 cases(28%). Follow-up 3 months after treatment, there was no the major complication. 7 patients had the atelectasis. The rate of tumor complete response was 92%, the rate of tumor incomplete response was 4%. 2 patients appeared new lesions(4%).

Conclusion: Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive, safe and effective method for tumors in risk locations