Single-session combined radiofrequency ablation and transarterial chemoembolization in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma

Aim of the study

To evaluate the efficacy of the combined use of both transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in a single session for the treatment of large (≥3?cm in diameter) hepatocellular carcinoma.

Patients and methods

This study was carried out on 30 patients (23 males and 7 females, with age range between 46 and 74?years), with either solitary or multiple hepatocellular carcinomas. Every patient was subjected to a single-session combined RFA with TACE. Targeting the lesion with RFA needle was first done, to secure its access into the lesion, under ultrasound guidance. Super-selective TACE was then performed, followed by the RFA procedure.

Results

One-month follow-up revealed complete ablation of the tumour in 25 patients (83.3%), while 5 patients (16.7%) showed residual tumour activity, requiring an additional TACE session. No major complications related to the procedure were recorded during the duration of this study. The probability of encountering, both intra- and post-procedural, minor complications was significantly higher with large focal lesion diameters (P?=?.039 and .003, respectively).

Conclusion

Single-session combined TACE and RFA is a safe and effective treatment option for the control of large HCC lesions, with no major procedure-related complications.