Enhanced radiofrequency ablation for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma post-transarterial chemoembolization: a prospective study utilizing twin internally cooled-perfusion electrodes

Backgrounds/Aims Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is widely employed for managing recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) following transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). However, local tumor progression (LTP) after treatment remains a significant challenge. This study evaluates the efficacy of salin...

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Main Authors: Sungjun Hwang, Jae Hyun Kim, Sae-Jin Park, Su Jong Yu, Yoon Jun Kim, Jung-Hwan Yoon, Jeong Min Lee
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Korean Liver Cancer Association 2025-03-01
Series:Journal of Liver Cancer
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Online Access:http://e-jlc.org/upload/pdf/jlc-2025-01-25.pdf
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Summary:Backgrounds/Aims Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is widely employed for managing recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) following transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). However, local tumor progression (LTP) after treatment remains a significant challenge. This study evaluates the efficacy of saline-perfused bipolar RFA using twin internally cooled-perfusion (TICP) electrodes in managing recurrent HCC post-TACE. Methods Between September 2017 and January 2019, 100 patients with 105 nodules (mean diameter, 1.6±0.5 cm) were prospectively enrolled. Bipolar RFA with TICP electrodes was performed under ultrasound-computed tomography/magnetic resonance fusion guidance. The primary outcome was the 2-year cumulative incidence of LTP. Results The technical success and technique efficacy rates were 100% and 97%, respectively. During a median follow-up period of 34.0 months (range, 3-41), the estimated LTP rates were 13.3% at 1 year and 17.7% at 2 years. Progression-free survival rates were 37.8% and 27.7% at 1 year and 2 years, respectively. Conclusions Saline-perfused bipolar RFA using TICP electrodes demonstrates promising results for recurrent HCC after TACE, achieving high technical success and effective local tumor control rates.
ISSN:2288-8128
2383-5001