Complications of radiofrequency ablation in hepatocellular carcinoma

A case of hemoperitoneum after percutaneous radiofrequency ablation in a patient with hepatocellular carcinoma

We report a case of hemoperitoneum after percutaneous radiofrequency ablation in a patient with hepatocellular carcinoma. A 60-year-old female was hospitalized for the treatment of thrombasthenia and cirrhosis caused by chronic Hepatitis C, and computed tomography revealed hepatocellular carcinoma, which was treated by percutaneous radiofrequency ablation. After the ablation, hemoperitoneum was suspected because of the low hemoglobin level with abdominal pain. Approximately 6 h after the ablation treatment, the patient suddenly fell into a shock state and died. In this case, medical treatment-related death including malpractice was suspected, and forensic autopsy was performed. The abdominal cavity contained 910 mL of dark red fluid blood and 210 g of soft hemocoagula. Moreover, several puncture marks were observed on the liver surface and diaphragm, and there was no clear damage to the main arteries and veins. Considering the macroscopic and microscopic findings, the cause of death was assumed as hemorrhagic shock due to the hemoperitoneum caused by the damage to the liver by radiofrequency ablation. It is important to consider all the indications and adverse effects of radiofrequency ablation.

Feasibility and safety of bipolar radiofrequency track cautery during percutaneous image-guided abdominal biopsy procedures

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and safety of using a bipolar radiofrequency track cautery device during percutaneous image-guided abdominal biopsy procedures in at-risk patients.

METHODS

Forty-two patients (26-79 years old; female 44%) with at least one bleeding risk factor who underwent an abdominal image-guided (CT or US) biopsy and intended bipolar radiofrequency track cautery (BRTC) were retrospectively studied. An 18G radiofrequency electrode was inserted through a 17G biopsy introducer needle immediately following coaxial 18G core biopsy, to cauterize the biopsy track using temperature control. Bleeding risk factors, technical success, and adverse events were recorded.

RESULTS

BRTC was technically successful in 41/42 (98%) of procedures; in one patient, the introducer needle retracted from the liver due to respiratory motion prior to BRTC. BRTC following percutaneous biopsy was applied during 41 abdominal biopsy procedures (renal mass = 12, renal parenchyma = 10, liver mass = 9, liver parenchyma = 5, splenic mass or parenchyma = 4, gastrohepatic mass = 1). All patients had one or more of the following risk factors: high-risk organ (spleen or renal parenchyma), hypervascular mass, elevated prothrombin time, renal insufficiency, thrombocytopenia, recent anticoagulation or anticoagulation not withheld for recommended interval, cirrhosis, intraprocedural hypertension, brisk back bleeding observed from the introducer needle, or subcapsular tumor location. No severe adverse events (grade 3 or higher) occurred. Two (2/41, 5%) mild (grade 1) bleeding events did not cause symptoms or require intervention.

CONCLUSION

Bipolar radiofrequency track cautery was feasible and safe during percutaneous image-guided abdominal biopsy procedures. IRB approval: MBG 2022P002277.

Diaphragmatic Liver Herniation after Radiofrequency Ablation of a Secondary Liver Tumor

Radiofrequency thermal ablation (RFA) is widely used and has been accepted for the treatment of unresectable tumors. The leading technique that is used is percutaneous RFA under CT or US guidance. Multicenter surveys report acceptable morbidity and mortality rates for RFA. The mortality rate ranges from 0.1% to 0.5%, the major complication rate ranges from 2% to 3%. Diaphragmatic injury is a rare complication and it is described after RFA of subdiaphragmatic tumors. Most of them are without clinical importance. There are some case reports about diaphragmatic herniation of the intestine into the pleural cavity. We present a case of diaphragmatic perforation resulting in the herniation of the liver into the pleural cavity. A thoracotomy was performed, the liver was lowered back into the peritoneal cavity and the perforation was closed with mesh.

Comparative Study of Long-Term Outcomes of Laparoscopic Liver Resection versus Radiofrequency Ablation for Single Small Hepatocellular Carcinoma Located in Left Lateral Segments of the Liver

Background and Objectives: Laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) is now widely recognized as the primary surgical option for hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) smaller than 3 cm located in the left lateral segment of the liver. Nevertheless, there is a scarcity of studies comparing laparoscopic liver resection with radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in these cases. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively compared the short- and long-term outcomes of Child-Pugh class A patients who underwent LLR (n = 36) or RFA (n = 40) for a newly diagnosed single small (≤3 cm) HCC located in the left lateral segment of the liver. Results: Overall survival (OS) was not significantly different between the LLR and RFA groups (94.4% vs. 80.0%, p = 0.075). However, disease-free survival (DFS) was better in the LLR group than in the RFA group (p < 0.001), with 1-, 3-, and 5-year DFS rates of 100%, 84.5%, and 74.4%, respectively, in the LLR group vs. 86.9%, 40.2%, and 33.4%, respectively, in the RFA group. The hospital stay was significantly shorter in the RFA group than in the LLR (2.4 vs. 4.9 days, p < 0.001). The overall complication rate was higher in the RFA group than in the LLR group (15% vs. 5.6%). In patients with an α-fetoprotein level of ≥20 ng/mL, the 5-year OS (93.8% vs. 50.0%, p = 0.031) and DFS (68.8% vs. 20.0%, p = 0.002) rates were greater in the LLR group. Conclusions: LLR showed superior OS and DFS compared to RFA in patients with a single small HCC situated in the left lateral segment of the liver. LLR can be considered for patients with an α-fetoprotein level of ≥20 ng/mL.

Thrombus formation in the suprahepatic inferior vena cava after microwave ablation in patients with hepatic metastasis: a case report

BACKGROUND

Microwave ablation (MWA) via ultrasound guidance is an important tool in the treatment of liver metastases. The most common postoperative complications are abdominal hemorrhage and bile leakage, whereas thrombosis in the suprahepatic inferior vena cava (IVC) is very rare, and clinical management is very difficult when the head end of the thrombus reaches the right atrium.

CASE PRESENTATION

This is a case report of a 52-year-old man with hepatic metastasis 21 months after radical resection of rectal cancer. After chemotherapy combined with targeted therapy, metastasis in segment IV (S4) of the liver was treated with microwave ablation. Two months after treatment, the hepatic metastasis in S4 showed a microwave ablation zone on MRI.Enhanced MRI showed venous thrombosis located in the left hepatic vein and IVC, and the head of the thrombus reached the right atrium. After two weeks of anticoagulation and thrombolytic treatment, the follow-up MRI showed that the venous thrombus had nearly disappeared.

CONCLUSION

When liver metastases are close to the hepatic vein, clinicians should pay attention to the occurrence of hepatic vein and IVC thrombosis following MWA; through early diagnosis and anticoagulation, pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) can be minimized.

Single-center analysis of percutaneous ablation in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma: long-term outcomes of a 7-year experience

PURPOSE

The objective of this study is to examine the safety and efficacy of ablative therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS

A retrospective review of 419 consecutive patients diagnosed with HCC, treated with percutaneous ablation at a tertiary academic medical center from June 2015 to June 2022, was conducted. Data evaluated included demographics, disease and tumor burden scores, and functional status. Procedural outcomes included procedural course, complication rates, biochemical and radiologic response, survival, and functional status.

RESULTS

A total of 419 patients, including 313 males (74.7%) and 106 females (25.3%) with a mean age of 63.8 ± 6.64 years, made up the study cohort. 120 patients (28.6%) presented with solitary lesions and 299 patients (71.4%) had multifocal involvement, with a mean tumor size of 2.3 ± 0.92 cm. A majority of the interventions performed were microwave ablations (n = 413, 98.3%), with 6 radiofrequency ablations (1.4%). Treatment response was radiographically assessed up to 6 months post-ablation and graded as complete response (96.2%), partial response (2.6%), stable disease (0%), and progressive disease (1.2%). 97 (23.2%) of the treated patients went on to receive liver transplant. The average progression-free survival in the study population was 24 months with a survival of 85.9% (n = 360), 67.8% (n = 284), and 63.2% (n = 265) at 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years respectively. Functional outcomes, as defined by ECOG scores, were maintained or improved in 383 patients (91.4%) and 349 patients (83.3%) at 6 months and 12 months respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This large institutional experience demonstrated safety and efficacy of ablation therapies for treatment of HCC with promising tumor response rates and enduring clinical outcomes including prolonged survival and preserved functional status.

Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of hepatocellular carcinoma in a recent cohort at a tertiary cancer center: incidence and factors associated with major complications and unexpected hospitalization events

PURPOSE

This study aimed to assess the incidence of and factors associated with major complications, delayed discharge, and emergency room (ER) visits or readmission after percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for single hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) <3 cm in a recent cohort at a tertiary cancer center.

METHODS

A total of 188 patients with treatment-naïve single HCCs <3 cm who underwent RFA between January 2018 and April 2021 were included in the analysis. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the factors associated with major complications, delayed discharge, and ER visits or readmission. Local tumor progression (LTP) and overall survival were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional-hazards regression analysis.

RESULTS

Major complications occurred in 3.2% (6/188) of the patients. The longest diameter of the ablation zone was significantly larger in patients with major complications (P=0.023). Delayed discharge occurred in 5.8% (9/188) of the patients, for which albumin-bilirubin grade 3 was identified as an important determinant. No variables other than major complications were significantly associated with ER visits or readmission, which occurred in 7.0% (13/188) of the patients. Major complications, delayed discharge, and ER visits or readmission were not substantially related to the post-treatment outcomes of LTP and overall survival.

CONCLUSION

This study confirmed RFA as a highly safe procedure for single HCCs <3 cm, despite the rapidly changing RFA techniques in the most recent cohort. A large ablation zone and poor liver function were predictors of major complications and delayed discharge, respectively.

Perinatal and neurodevelopmental outcome in complicated monochorionic pregnancy after selective fetal reduction: radiofrequency ablation vs microwave ablation

OBJECTIVES

To summarize our experience in the application of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA) for selective fetal reduction in complicated monochorionic pregnancies and compare the perinatal outcome of the two techniques.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of data from a consecutive cohort of all monochorionic twin pregnancies that underwent selective fetal reduction with RFA or MWA at Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China from January 2012 to December 2018. All surviving cotwins were followed up to assess their neurodevelopment using the Age &amp; Stage Questionnaire, Chinese version. Perinatal and neurodevelopmental outcomes were compared between the RFA and MWA groups. We also fitted multivariable models to test the association between procedure-related factors and the main perinatal outcomes, including preterm birth (PTB) &lt; 37 weeks' gestation, intrauterine fetal death (IUFD) of the cotwin, adverse outcome (defined as occurrence of IUFD of the cotwin, termination of pregnancy or PTB &lt; 28 weeks) and overall survival.

RESULTS

In total, 45 cases (42 twin and three triplet pregnancies) underwent RFA and 126 cases (105 twin and 21 triplet pregnancies) underwent MWA. The overall survival rates in monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies were similar between the RFA and MWA groups (61.0% vs 67.0%; P = 0.494). However, pregnancies whose indication for fetal reduction was selective intrauterine growth restriction or twin reversed arterial perfusion had higher overall survival rates (75.5% and 82.6%, respectively) compared with those in other indication groups. A total of 104 children were followed up (20 in the RFA group and 84 in the MWA group); four (20.0%) and eight (9.5%) children were assessed as having overall developmental delay in the RFA and MWA groups, respectively, with no significant difference between the two groups. Multivariable analyses showed that procedure indication, number of ablation cycles and gestational age at procedure were associated significantly with the main perinatal outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

RFA and MWA for selective fetal reduction in complicated monochorionic pregnancies can achieve similar overall survival rate and neurodevelopmental outcome, but MWA is associated with a lower risk of preterm birth. Moreover, procedure-related factors are associated significantly with perinatal outcome. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

The frequency and risk factors of major complications after thermal ablation of liver tumours in 2,084 ablation sessions

Background

To assess the frequency of major complications after thermal ablation of liver tumours and to determine risk factors for adverse events.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted between January 2015 and January 2021. A total of 2,084 thermal ablation sessions in 1,592 patients with primary and metastatic liver tumours were evaluated. The frequency of major complications was evaluated according to the Society of Interventional Radiology Standards, and putative predictors of adverse events were analysed using simple and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Thermal ablation-related mortality was 0.1% (2/2,084), with an overall major complication rate of 5.6% (117/2,084). The most frequent major complication was symptomatic pleural effusion (2.9%, 60/2,084). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a total maximum diameter of lesions >3 cm, microwave ablation (MWA) and MWA combined with radiofrequency ablation, intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and postoperative systemic inflammatory response syndrome were independent prognostic factors for major complications.

Conclusions

Thermal ablation of liver tumours is a safe procedure with an acceptable incidence of major complications. The risk factors identified in this study will help to stratify high-risk patients.

Safety and efficacy of pentazocine–midazolam combination for pain and anxiety relief in radiofrequency ablation therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma

Background and Aim

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) therapy is frequently used as first‐line treatment for small hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). RFA is often associated with pain; however, no definitive solution has been established for its relief. We retrospectively analyzed the safety and efficacy of the combination of pentazocine and midazolam to relieve pain experienced by HCC patients undergoing RFA.

Methods

We studied 77 patients with 98 HCCs treated with RFA between January 2015 and August 2019. Patients were divided into two groups: the sedative‐free group, which included those who received pentazocine alone, and the pentazocine–midazolam group, which included those who received a combination of pentazocine and midazolam. The degrees of analgesia and sedation were evaluated using the numerical rating scale (NRS) and the Richmond Agitation‐Sedation Scale (RASS), respectively. Other parameters such as treatment time, awakening time, midazolam dosage, vital signs, local recurrence rate, and time to recurrence were also examined.

Results

The median NRS score and RASS score were significantly lower in the pentazocine–midazolam group. Ninety‐five percent of patients in the pentazocine–midazolam group had no memory of the RFA session. The treatment time and awakening time were prolonged for the pentazocine–midazolam group. No significant differences in oxygen saturation, recurrence rates, and time to local recurrence were observed between groups.

Conclusion

A combination of pentazocine and midazolam is safe and effective for pain and anxiety relief experienced by patients undergoing RFA for local treatment of HCC.

Integrated, Transparent Silicon Carbide Electronics and Sensors for Radio Frequency Biomedical Therapy

The integration of micro- and nanoelectronics into or onto biomedical devices can facilitate advanced diagnostics and treatments of digestive disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and cancers. Recent developments in gastrointestinal endoscopy and balloon catheter technologies introduce promising paths for minimally invasive surgeries to treat these diseases. However, current therapeutic endoscopy systems fail to meet requirements in multifunctionality, biocompatibility, and safety, particularly when integrated with bioelectronic devices. Here, we report materials, device designs, and assembly schemes for transparent and stable cubic silicon carbide (3C-SiC)-based bioelectronic systems that facilitate tissue ablation, with the capability for integration onto the tips of endoscopes. The excellent optical transparency of SiC-on-glass (SoG) allows for direct observation of areas of interest, with superior electronic functionalities that enable multiple biological sensing and stimulation capabilities to assist in electrical-based ablation procedures. Experimental studies on phantom, vegetable, and animal tissues demonstrated relatively short treatment times and low electric field required for effective lesion removal using our SoG bioelectronic system. In vivo experiments on an animal model were conducted to explore the versatility of SoG electrodes for peripheral nerve stimulation, showing an exciting possibility for the therapy of neural disorders through electrical excitation. The multifunctional features of SoG integrated devices indicate their high potential for minimally invasive, cost-effective, and outcome-enhanced surgical tools, across a wide range of biomedical applications.

Transcatheter arterial embolization of iatrogenic massive arterioportal fistula in the liver

BACKGROUND

Massive arterioportal fistula (APF) is naturally irreversible and can induce portal hypertension and portal vein thrombosis (PVT), worsening survival outcomes.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical course and details of transarterial embolization (TAE) procedures for massive APF.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This retrospective single-center observational study evaluated the time until embolization after puncture, imaging, embolization methods, and laboratory data of 10 consecutive patients who were diagnosed with massive APF after puncture and underwent TAE at our hospital from 1 April 2012 to 30 September 2019.

RESULTS

Out of 10 cases, eight demonstrated a simple type and the other two cases a complex network type on the digital subtraction angiography pattern of massive APF. In two simple-type cases for which re-embolization was required, other subsegmental branches were embolized. The two cases showing a complex network type had been embolized via not only the subsegmental branch, but also the extrahepatic and multiple subsegmental branches. Child-Pugh scores were improved in eight of the ten cases. PVT was seen in six cases before embolization, but disappeared after embolization in all cases, despite the fact that three cases had not received anticoagulant therapy. Six cases had digestive varices before embolization, suggesting portal hypertension, and two of the six cases with esophageal varices and one with gastric varices decreased after embolization.

CONCLUSION

TAE for massive APF contributed to the improvement of hepatic reserve, the disappearance of PVT, and the improvement of portal hypertension; however, embolization of multiple branches may still be required in some cases.

Hepatic Plexus Nerve Block for Microwave Ablation of Hepatic Tumors

Seven patients underwent microwave ablation of hepatic tumors, using hepatic nerve plexus block. Mean visual analog score (VAS; pain on 1-10 scale) was 0.3±0.5 at baseline and 2.5±1.4, 2.6±1.4, and 2.3±0.9 at 1, 5, and 10 minutes during ablation. Two patients reported VAS ≥4 during ablation, which both improved to VAS of 3 after one rescue sedation dose; remaining patients required no additional sedation. No major complication occurred. No patient required conversation to general anesthesia.

Hemostasis using re-radiofrequency ablation for hepatic tract bleeding after ultrasound-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of hepatic tumors

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the hemostatic efficacy of re-radiofrequency ablation (re-RFA) for hepatic tract bleeding after ultrasound-guided RFA of hepatic tumors.

METHODS

A total of 4679 percutaneous ultrasound-guided RFA procedures were performed for hepatic tumors at Samsung Medical Center between January 2012 and December 2020. We identified patients who had hepatic tract bleeding after RFA by reviewing radiologic reports and ultrasound images and investigated the measures taken to control the bleeding and their outcomes. We also identified patients who had a significant peritoneal hematoma on immediate post-RFA CT or underwent transarterial embolization to control hepatic bleeding after RFA of hepatic tumors.

RESULTS

In total, 91 patients with tract bleeding after RFA were identified. As initial measures to control the bleeding, external compression, re-RFA, and observation were performed in 71 (78%), 17 (19%), and 3 (3%) patients, respectively. Hemostasis using re-RFA was attempted to control tract bleeding in 40 patients as an initial measure or an additional measure after other initial efforts. In all 40 patients, the bleeding stopped after re-RFA on Doppler ultrasound, and there was no active bleeding on the immediate follow-up CT. During the study period, in the years when re-RFA was performed frequently, the number of transarterial embolizations to control tract bleeding and significant peritoneal hematoma formation tended to be low.

CONCLUSION

Hemostasis using re-RFA of the needle tract is effective in controlling tract bleeding after ultrasound-guided RFA of hepatic tumors.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

Re-RFA is a simple, safe, and effective method to control tract bleeding.

Efficacy of microwave ablation versus radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma: a propensity score analysis

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and new-generation microwave ablation (MWA) for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

The propensity score matching method was applied to patients with HCC treated with MWA (93 patients) or RFA (156 patients) at a single institution from January 2014 to April 2020. The local tumor progression (LTP), intrahepatic distant recurrence (IDR), and recurrence-free survival (RFS) of the two matched therapies were analyzed using the Kaplan–Meier method. Cox proportional hazard models were used to identify risk factors for LTP and RFS. The therapeutic effects and complications of the two treatments were also compared.

Results

The LTP, IDR, and RFS of MWA and RFA were equivalent (LTP: hazard ratio [HR] = 0.87; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.36- 2.07; P = 0.746, IDR: HR = 1.03; 95% CI 0.61–1.73; P = 0.890, RFS: HR = 1.15; 95% CI 0.69–1.91; P = 0.566). Para-vessel lesions was the only risk factor for LTP, whereas age, previous treatment, Albumin-Bilirubin score, and tumor diameter were risk factors for RFS. On the other hand, the ablation time per nodule (6.79 ± 2.73 and 9.21 ± 4.90 min; P = 0.008) and number of sessions per nodule required to achieve technical success (1.16 ± 0.39 and 1.34 ± 0.57; P = 0.009) were significantly lower in MWA than in RFA. The major complication rate of MWA and RFA was also equivalent.

Conclusion

MWA and RFA have similar therapeutic effects and safety, although MWA has advantages over RFA regarding efficacy, including shorter ablation time and fewer sessions required.

A prediction model of major complications after radiofrequency ablation for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma patients

BACKGROUND

Postoperative major complications are potentially fatal to recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (RHCC) patients. We aimed to construct a prediction model of major complications after RFA for RHCC patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 407 RHCC patients who underwent RFA as second treatment. Patients were divided into two groups according to the date of RFA: training cohort (277 patients treated in 2010-2016) and validation cohort (130 patients treated in 2017-2019). 23 clinicopathological variables were recorded and analyzed. The logistic regression model was used to build a prediction model.

RESULT

Major complications developed in 3.6 % of RHCC patients after RFA. In the multivariate analysis, tumor adjacent vessels (p = 0.004) and hepatitis C (p = 0.022) were associated with postoperative complications. The prediction model was described as follow: Risk score (major complication) = 5.180 + 3.391*tumor location+3.389*hepatic etiology, the Youden index was 0.642, the best cut-off value of the model was 8.57 (sensitivity, 78.57 %, specificity, 84.03 %). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the predictive model was 0.85 (95 % CI, 0.82 to 0.88). The validation of the model demonstrated acceptable results, the sensitivity was 80.00 %, specificity was 98.40 %.

CONCLUSIONS

This study developed a simple and reliable prediction model of postoperative major complications after RFA for RHCC patients.

Radiofrequency Ablation of Liver Tumors in Patients on Antithrombotic Therapy: A Case-Control Analysis of over 10,000 Treatments

PURPOSE

To evaluate the safety of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for liver tumors in patients on antithrombotic therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 10,653 consecutive RFA treatments in 3,485 patients with liver tumors were analyzed. The incidence of complications was analyzed on a treatment basis. The treatments for patients who had received antithrombotic medication up to 1 week prior to RFA comprised the antithrombotic therapy group (n = 806), and the others comprised the control group (n = 9,847). Antithrombotic agents were ceased prior to RFA (aspirin, ticlopidine, clopidogrel, and prasugrel ceased 7 days before RFA; cilostazol, 2 or 3 days before RFA; warfarin, 3 days before RFA; and direct oral anticoagulants, 1 day before RFA) and resumed as soon as possible after RFA. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess whether the antithrombotic therapy increased the risk of hemorrhagic complications.

RESULTS

Hemorrhagic complications were diagnosed after 6 treatments (0.7%) in the antithrombotic group and 48 (0.5%) in the control group, and there was no significant difference between the groups (P = .30). In 3 treatments, hemorrhage was diagnosed on or after 8 days of RFA, all of which were in the antithrombotic group. Thrombotic complications were diagnosed after 2 treatments (0.2%) in the antithrombotic group and after 5 (0.1%) in the control group. In a multivariate analysis, receiving antithrombotic therapy was not an independent risk factor for hemorrhagic complications (adjusted odds ratio, 1.52; 95% confidence interval, 0.60-3.87; P = .38).

CONCLUSIONS

RFA of liver tumors in patients on antithrombotic therapy is generally safe with appropriate cessation and resumption. Late-onset hemorrhage should be noted in the patients on antithrombotic therapy.

Massive abdominal hemorrhage after radiofrequency ablation of recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma with successful hemostasis achieved through transarterial embolization: a case report

Acute massive abdominal hemorrhage after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an infrequent and severe complication. Delayed diagnosis and treatment may be life-threatening. We herein describe a 60-year-old man with a history of postoperative HCC. A new nidus of HCC was found in his right liver lobe after abdominal magnetic resonance imaging and intraoperative angiography. The patient then underwent computed tomography-guided RFA. However, 7 hours after RFA, he suddenly developed dizziness, nausea, abdominal distension, hematuria, a decreased blood pressure, and an increased heart rate. Diagnostic abdominal puncture produced bloody liquid, and angiography demonstrated hemorrhage in the right hepatic artery. Transarterial embolization was performed following the administration of an appropriate amount of tissue emulsion to embolize the source of hemorrhage. Following this treatment, the patient had no further bleeding. Neither the hemorrhage nor the HCC lesions had recurred after 3 months of follow-up.

Percutaneous cryoablation of subcapsular hepatocellular carcinoma: a retrospective study of 57 cases

PURPOSE This study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the percutaneous cryoablation for subcapsular hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS A total of 57 patients with subcapsular (<1 cm form the liver edge) HCCs (68 lesions), who were treated with CT-guided percutaneous cryoablation in the Department of Interventional Radiology of our hospital between July 1, 2016 and September 1, 2018, were retrospectively included. Complete ablation rate, local tumor progression (LTP) and treatment-related complications were evaluated. Furthermore, the degree of intraoperative and postoperative pain was measured with the visual analog scale (VAS), and laboratory findings were compared before and after the procedure. RESULTS All patients successfully completed the treatment. The mean follow-up period was 12.8 months (range, 3-27 months), and the complete ablation rate was 97% (66/68). Local tumor progression occurred in 11 lesions (16.2%), and the 6-, 12- and 18-month cumulative LTP rates were 4.0%, 8.2% and 20.5%, respectively. Two patients (3.5%, 2/57) developed major complications, and 12 patients had minor complications (22.8%, 12/57). The mean VAS score during the operation was 1.65 points (range, 1-3 points). Postoperative pain worsened in 3 patients, and the VAS scores reached 4-5. Transient changes in biochemical and hematologic markers were observed. CONCLUSION Percutaneous cryoablation for subcapsular HCC is safe and effective, the procedure is simple and the patients suffer less pain.

Immunotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma: Combination strategies

Liver cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer death globally, and its incidence in the United States is increasing. Patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who are not candidates for surgical resection, liver transplant, or locoregional therapies can be treated with systemic therapies. Multiple agents, including sorafenib, lenvatinib, and regorafenib are approved for use as either first- or second-line therapy in this patient population, but all have relatively modest survival benefits. HCC is potentially susceptible to therapy with checkpoint inhibitors, including agents such as nivolumab and pembrolizumab, which are both approved by the Food and Drug Administration for patients previously treated with sorafenib but have not demonstrated superior overall survival in phase III trials. It is clear that more effective approaches are needed to potentiate the effects of checkpoint inhibitors in patients with HCC. This review will outline and appraise the current literature on the use of checkpoint inhibitors in HCC as part of a combination treatment involving an additional mode of therapy. The list of agents that can be paired with checkpoint inhibitors includes an additional checkpoint inhibitor, vascular endothelial growth factor or vascular endothelial growth factor receptor inhibitors, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, OX-40 agonists, and PT-112 inhibitors. The main non-pharmacologic therapies currently being studied for inclusion in a combination strategy include radiation therapy, trans-arterial chemoembolization, and ablation.

Iatrogenic Arterioportal Fistula Caused by Radiofrequency Ablation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Clinical Course and Treatment Outcomes

PURPOSE

To analyze the clinical course and treatment outcomes of patients with iatrogenic arterioportal fistula (APF) caused by radiofrequency (RF) ablation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Among the 1,620 hepatocellular carcinoma patients treated by RF ablation between January 2012 and August 2017, 99 who developed APF after RF ablation were included in this retrospective study. Depending on the extent of portal vein enhancement on arterial phase images, APF was classified as massive or nonmassive. The patients' clinical course was investigated and statistically evaluated by univariable and multivariable analyses.

RESULTS

Thrombocytopenia (odds ratio [OR] = 3.939; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.141-13.598) was the only risk factor for developing massive APF. Eleven patients underwent embolotherapy (technical success rate, 90.9%) and no patients experienced serious adverse events within 30 days of the procedure. Patients with massive APF (66.7%) had a significantly higher chance of a Child-Pugh score increase than did the patients with nonmassive APF (13.6%) (P < .001). Massive APF had a significantly lower chance of natural regression than did nonmassive APF (P < .001). Child-Pugh B (OR = 17.739; 95% confidence interval, 2.361-133.279) and massive APF without treatment (OR = 11.061; 95% confidence interval, 1.257-97.341) were independent risk factors for liver failure that led to death of liver transplant within 1 year after RF ablation.

CONCLUSIONS

Massive APF caused by RF ablation is mostly irreversible and significantly worsens patients' outcomes, but may be effectively treated with embolotherapy.

Short term treatment results of local ablation with water-cooled microwave antenna for liver cancer: Comparison with radiofrequency ablation

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the new-generation percutaneous microwave ablation (MWA) compared with the radiofrequency ablation (RFA) system for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A retrospective study was conducted from January 2014 to February 2019. A total of 44 patients and 52 nodules (mean tumor size, 17.2±4.9 mm) were treated with MWA, and 55 patients and 70 nodules (mean tumor size, 17.7±6.4 mm) were treated with RFA. After 4 days of treatment, the direct effects of ablation were assessed using dynamic CT, and after discharge, a follow-up dynamic CT scan was performed every 3-4 months. Treatment efficacy, complications and local recurrence were recorded. For MWA and RFA, the average number of CT sessions were 1.05±0.23 and 1.28±0.54, respectively, and the mean ablation times were 5.0±2.0 and 8.1±4.8 min. Following MWA and RFA, the ablation ranges that were evaluated with the axial images were 31.9±5.5 and 33.3±9.0 mm, respectively, in the long-axis diameter and 27.6±5.3 and 23.4±6.8 mm, respectively, in the short-axis diameter. The flatness ratios of the ablation regions were 0.13±0.09 and 0.29±0.14 (axial image) and 0.11±0.07 and 0.28±0.14 (coronal image), respectively. The rates of complete tumor necrosis were comparable. The complication rates were 13.6% (MWA) and 14.5% (RFA), which were not significantly different. The cumulative local recurrence rates were not significantly different between the two methods (one-year recurrence rate, MWA: 6.91%, RFA: 5.17%). MWA was therefore indicated to be an effective treatment for HCC in respect to session number, treatment time and spherical ablation.

Sedation and Analgesia for Liver Cancer Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation: Fentanyl and Oxycodone Comparison

Background: Sedation and analgesia use in percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFPA) for liver cancer is a necessary part of the procedure; however, the optimal medicine for sedation and analgesia for PRFA remains controversial. The aim of this study was to compare the perioperative pain management, haemodynamic stability and side effects between oxycodone (OXY) and fentanyl (FEN) use in patients under dexmedetomidine sedation. Methods: Two hundred and five adults with an American Society of Anaesthesiologists physical status score of I to II were included in this study. Patients were assigned to the OXY (n=101) or FEN (n=104) group. Radiofrequency ablation was performed under spontaneous breathing and with painless anaesthesia administered intravenously. The outcomes included fluctuations in mean arterial pressure, heart rate, side effects and the perioperative numerical rating scale (NRS). Results: Radiofrequency ablation was successfully performed in 205 patients. No significant differences were observed in mean blood pressure fluctuations between the two groups despite the longer durations of ablation and total sedation time in the OXY group. The highest NRS score during the surgery and 1 hour and 2 hours after the surgery were significantly lower in the OXY group than in the FEN group. Heart rate fluctuations were significantly lower in the OXY group than in FEN group throughout the surgery. More patients in the FEN group displayed unwanted body movement and respiratory depression. Conclusions: Both oxycodone and fentanyl can be applied for liver cancer percutaneous radiofrequency ablation; however, oxycodone provides a better patient experience, lower postoperative pain, less respiratory depression and stable haemodynamic fluctuations.

Assessment of hepatocellular carcinoma treatment response with LI-RADS: a pictorial review

Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) play critical roles for assessing treatment response of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after locoregional therapy. Interpretation is challenging because posttreatment imaging findings depend on the type of treatment, magnitude of treatment response, time interval after treatment, and other factors. To help radiologists interpret and report treatment response in a clear, simple, and standardized manner, the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) has developed a Treatment Response (LR-TR) algorithm. Introduced in 2017, the system provides criteria to categorize response of HCC to locoregional treatment (e.g., chemical ablation, energy-based ablation, transcatheter therapy, and radiation therapy). LR-TR categories include Nonevaluable, Nonviable, Equivocal, and Viable. LR-TR does not apply to patients on systemic therapies. This article reviews the LR-TR algorithm; discusses locoregional therapies for HCC, treatment concepts, and expected posttreatment findings; and illustrates LI-RADS treatment response assessment with CT and MRI.

Local Ablation Does Not Worsen Perioperative Outcomes After Liver Transplant for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

OBJECTIVE. Local ablation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) before liver transplant has important advantages, such as preventing disease progression, tumor downstaging, and offering a test of time. However, it might render liver transplant more technically demanding. Thus far, its potential effect on liver transplant outcomes is still unknown, and, therefore, the current study was performed. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Patients who underwent liver transplant for HCC at a single tertiary referral center between 2008 and 2016 were included and retrospectively analyzed. Patients who underwent liver resection and local ablation before liver transplant were excluded. Patients treated with local ablation before liver transplant were compared with those not treated with local ablation, both before and after propensity score matching. In addition, the local ablation group was compared with patients who underwent primary resection before liver transplant. Posttreatment mortality and morbidity were determined, and overall and disease-free survival rates were calculated. RESULTS. In total, 182 patients were included. Twenty-six patients underwent resection but not local ablation before liver transplant. Of the remaining 156 patients, 66 (42%) underwent local ablation before liver transplant and 90 (58%) did not. Perioperative mortality and morbidity were similar in both groups before and after propensity score matching (8% and 74% in the local ablation group vs 10% and 83% in the non-local ablation group, p = 0.60 and 0.17, respectively). In addition, no significant differences in long-term outcomes were observed between the groups before and after propensity score matching. Also, no differences were observed in outcomes in the local ablation group versus the liver resection group. CONCLUSION. Local ablation before liver transplant does not have a negative effect on outcomes after liver transplant for HCC.

Efficacy and Safety of Deep Sedation in Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

INTRODUCTION

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has been accepted as safe and effective for treating early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, it often causes severe pain. Therefore, in this study, we performed RFA under deep sedation and investigated its efficacy and safety.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study including 511 HCC patients who received approximately 886 RFA treatments between December 2014 and November 2016 at our institution. Respiratory depression was defined as oxygen saturation of below 90%; and severe body movement was defined as movement caused by pain, which was managed by lowering the power of the generator. Factors associated with respiratory depression and severe body movement were examined via univariate and multivariate regression analyses.

RESULTS

Respiratory depression occurred in 15.3% of the patients and severe body movement in 26.5% of the patients. In the multivariate analysis, BMI (≥ 25 kg/m², odds ratio [OR] = 1.75, P = 0.035) and longer ablation (≥ 10 min, OR = 2.59, P = 0.002) were significant respiratory depression-related factors. Male sex (OR = 2.02, P = 0.005), Child-Pugh class A (odds ratio = 1.96, P = 0.018), and longer ablation (≥ 10 min, OR = 3.03, P < 0.001) were significant factors related to severe body movement.

CONCLUSION

Deep sedation for RFA can be performed safely and effectively. Higher BMI and longer ablation were risk factors for respiratory depression and male sex, Child-Pugh class A, and longer ablation were independent predictors of severe body movement during RFA under deep sedation.

Different effects of oxycodone and remifentanil in patients undergoing ultrasound-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of hepatic cancer: a randomized trial

Background

Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a recently introduced alternative technique for the treatment of hepatic cancer. Anesthesia is required for RFA of hepatic cancer to achieve patient comfort and immobilization during this painful procedure. The purpose of this study was to investigate the analgesic efficacy and evaluate the safety of a single intravenous injection of oxycodone hydrochloride for this procedure.

Patients and methods

A total of 120 American Society of Anesthesiologists class I–II grade patients for elective ultrasound-guided percutaneous RFA were enrolled in this randomized controlled trial. Patients were randomized (1:1) to receive either a single intravenous injection of oxycodone (group O) or continuous infusion of remifentanil (group R). Both groups received the continuous infusion of dexmedetomidine for sedation. Visual analog scale (VAS), rescue analgesic, and side effects were checked during the periprocedural period. In addition, patient and oncologist satisfaction on a scale of 1–5 were determined.

Results

VAS score in group O was significantly lower than in group R at 1, 2, and 3 hours after RFA, and patients in group O required analgesics significantly later and less doses in the first 24 hours after RFA. The occurrence of unwanted body movements was significantly lower in group O. We found no complications including allergic reaction, excessive sedation, and chest wall rigidity in all patients. The patient satisfaction score was significantly higher in group O than that in group R.

Conclusion

Ultrasound-guided percutaneous RFA for hepatic cancer can be completed both with continuous infusion of remifentanil or a single intravenous injection of oxycodone. However, oxycodone hydrochloride provides better patient experience with higher satisfactory score and less unwanted body movements, relieves post-procedural pain better, and is not associated with an increase in adverse effects.

Radiofrequency ablation of liver cancers adjacent to the gallbladder without gallbladder isolation under contrast-enhanced ultrasound monitoring: a preliminary study

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility, safety and efficacy of intra-procedural contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) monitoring of the radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of liver cancers adjacent to gallbladder (GB) without GB isolation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From May 2016 to July 2017, patients with liver cancers adjacent to GB (≤10 mm) who intended to undergo ultrasound-guided RFA without GB isolation in our hospital were prospectively enrolled. During the RFA procedures, CEUS was employed to evaluate the therapeutic response and the perfusion of the intact GB wall. The outcomes of GB and liver cancers were followed up and recorded.

RESULTS

23 patients (18 male, 5 female) with 23 liver cancers (mean 18 mm, range 8-34 mm) adjacent to GB were enrolled. There were 12 tumors that abutted the GB while 11 tumors located within 10 mm of the GB. After the RFA procedures, intra-procedural CEUS evaluation demonstrated the perfusion of the GB wall was intact in all 23 patients and technical success rate of RFA was 100% (23/23). According to the contrast-enhanced CT/MR one month after RFA, the technical efficacy rate was 100% (23/23). During the follow-up period (range: 12-23 months, median: 17 months), no local tumor progression occurred and no major complications arised. Overall survival at 1-year was 100%. Thickening of GB wall was detected in 11 patients. The thickness of GB wall returned to the pre-ablation level in five patients.

CONCLUSION

CEUS-monitored RFA of liver cancers adjacent to GB without GB isolation was feasible, safe and effective.

The Effects of Thoracic Epidural Analgesia during Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Pain Res Manag. 2018;2018:4354912. [PMID: 30581515 PMCID: PMC6276420 DOI: 10.1155/2018/4354912]

Background

Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (PRFA) is a useful and safe treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Pain management, during and after PRFA, is a critical component of patient care.

Objectives

This study reviewed the efficacy of thoracic epidural analgesia, during and after PRFA, for patients with HCC.

Study Design

A retrospective, observational chart review.

Setting

Tertiary medical center/teaching hospital.

Methods

Patients who had undergone PRFA for HCC in the past 5 years were divided into two groups, based on the type of anesthesia administered: thoracic epidural anesthesia group (Group E) and local anesthesia with monitored anesthesia care group (Group C). We retrospectively reviewed changes in the numeric rating scale (NRS) score during and after PRFA, opioid consumption, length of the procedure, length of hospital stay, changes in blood pressure during PRFA, and the incidence of adverse events.

Results

The NRS score in Group E was significantly lower than that in Group C (P < 0.05). The opioid consumption in Group E was lower than that in Group C after PRFA (P < 0.05). The procedure time was shorter in Group E (P < 0.05). Neither of the groups showed significant difference with respect to the length of hospital stay and the incidence of respiratory depression, fever, and blood pressure elevation. The incidence of nausea, vomiting, and voiding difficulty was higher in Group E.

Limitations

This study is limited by its retrospective design.

Conclusions

Thoracic epidural analgesia was associated with shorter procedure times, lower postprocedural pain, and lower opioid consumption during and after PRFA for HCC.

Predictive Value of Procalcitonin for Bacterial Infection after Transarterial Chemoembolization or Radiofrequency Ablation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

This prospective observational study aimed at investigating the role of procalcitonin (PCT) in diagnosing bacterial infection and guiding antibiotic therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with fever after transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and/or radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Ninety-seven cases (84 patients) were enrolled. Serum PCT, C-reactive protein (CRP), and white blood cell (WBC) counts were measured on the day of fever onset (day 0) and days 1, 3, 5, and 7 of fever. Empirical antibiotics were initiated only if PCT was ≥0.5 ng/mL or specific infection foci were suspected. An infectious cause was found in nine cases. PCT on day 0 of fever was significantly higher in patients with bacterial infection than in those without infection (P = 0.035). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for PCT was 0.715 (95% confidence interval, 0.538–0.892) and was higher than that for CRP (0.598 (0.368–0.828)) or WBC counts (0.502 (0.307–0.697)). In patients undergoing TACE and/or RFA, a significantly lower number of antibiotics were prescribed during the study period than during the prestudy period (P < 0.001). In conclusion, PCT might be a biomarker for diagnosing infection and guiding antibiotic treatment to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use in patients with fever after TACE and/or RFA.

Immune and Inflammatory Responses of the Intestinal Mucosa following Extended Liver Radiofrequency Ablation

Background and Aim

Extended liver radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has been shown to disrupt gut barrier integrity with subsequent bacterial translocation. The aim of the present project was to study the immune and inflammatory responses of the intestinal mucosa after extended RFA of the liver.

Methods

Twelve Wistar rats were either subjected to RFA of the left lateral hepatic lobe (approximately 30% of the liver mass) after midline laparotomy (group RFA, n = 6) or sham operation (group Sham, n = 6). Forty-eight hours later, ileal tissue specimens were excised for immunohistochemical assessment of CD68⁺ macrophages, CD4⁺ T-lymphocytes, CD8⁺ T-lymphocytes, mucosal addressin cell adhesion molecule-1 (MAdCAM-1), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and nuclear factor-κB (NFκB) expression.

Results

Immune response biomarkers were upregulated in the RFA group. Expression of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T-lymphocytes was moderate, while that of CD68⁺ macrophages and MAdCAM-1 was high. Inflammatory response biomarkers were also upregulated in the RFA group. TNFα, IL-6, and NFκB expression was low, moderate, and high, respectively.

Conclusions

Extended liver RFA evokes both immune and inflammatory responses of the gut mucosa.

Percutaneous Dual-Switching Monopolar Radiofrequency Ablation Using a Separable Clustered Electrode: A Preliminary Study

Objective

To prospectively evaluate the safety and therapeutic effectiveness of dual-switching monopolar (DSM) radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and to retrospectively compare the results with those of single-switching monopolar (SSM) RFA in a historical control group.

Materials and Methods

This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board, with informed consent obtained from all patients. Fifty-two HCC patients who underwent DSM-RFA using a separable clustered electrode and dual-generators were prospectively enrolled. Technical parameters, complications, technical success, technical effectiveness, and local tumor progression (LTP) rates were evaluated by means of post-procedural and follow-up imaging. Thereafter, the outcome of DSM-RFA was compared with those of 249 retrospectively included HCC patients treated with SSM-RFA.

Results

There were two major complications (3.8%, 2/52) including pleural and pericardial effusion in the DSM-RFA group. The DSM-RFA yielded a 100% technical success rate, a 98.1% technical effectiveness rate, and a 4.3% 2-year LTP rate. In a retrospective comparison between the two groups, DSM-RFA created significantly larger ablation volume (4.20 ± 2.07 cm³/min vs. 3.03 ± 1.99 cm³/min, p < 0.01), and delivered higher energy (1.43 ± 0.37 kcal/min vs. 1.25 ± 0.50 kcal/min, p < 0.01) per given time, than SSM-RFA. There was no significant difference in major procedure-related complications (3.8% vs. 4.4%) and technical effectiveness rate (98.1% vs. 96.4%) between the two groups (p = 1.00). In addition, the 2-year LTP rate of DSM-RFA and SSM-RFA were 4.3% and 10.1%, respectively (p = 0.15).

Conclusion

DSM-RFA using a separable clustered electrode is safe and provides high local tumor control and good preliminary clinical outcome for small HCCs, which are at least comparable to those of SSM-RFA.

Imaging guided percutaneous interventions in hepatic dome lesions: Tips and tricks

Percutaneous hepatic interventions are generally safe given the fact that liver closely abuts the abdominal wall and hence it is easily accessible. However, the superior portion of liver, adjacent to the diaphragm, commonly referred as the “hepatic dome”, presents unique challenges for interventionists. Percutaneous access to the hepatic dome may be restricted by anatomical factors and special considerations may be required to avoid injury to the surrounding organs. The purpose of this review article is to discuss certain specific maneuvers and techniques that can enhance the success and safety of interventions in the hepatic dome.

CT-guided microwave ablation through the lungs for treating liver tumors near the diaphragm

Purpose

To explore the short-term efficacy and safety of CT-guided microwave ablation (MWA) for treating liver tumors near the diaphragm.

Results

The complete response (CR) rate for CT-guided MWA through the lung was 94.7% (124/131). The incomplete response (ICR) rate was 5.3% (7/131), of which 6 patients with ICRs achieved CRs after MWA. The CR rate for Group I was higher than Group II (99.0% vs. 80.0%, P=0.001). The mean follow-up time was 11.2 ±7.50 months. The total local recurrence (LR) rate was 15.3% (20/131). The complication rate was 26.5%, and no severe complications were recorded. All complications were controllable and treatable. The incidence of diaphragmatic thickening during the MWA was 18.8% (P>0.05); the incidence of exudative changes inside the lungs was 6.8% (P>0.05).

Conclusions

CT-guided MWA can detect changes in liver tissue, in the diaphragm and nearby lung tissues during the ablation process. It's safe and effective to treat tumors close to the diaphragm by CT-guided MWA through the lung.

Methods

CT-guided MWA was used on 131 tumors that were close to the diaphragm (distance between tumor and diaphragm ≤ 5 mm) in 117 patients with liver cancer. The tumors were divided into a < 3.0 cm group (Group I, n= 101) and a ≥ 3.0 cm group (Group II, n= 30) based on tumor diameters. The complications within 2 weeks following treatment were counted, and the safety and short-term efficacy of MWA were analyzed.

Early complications after percutaneous radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma: an analysis of 1,843 ablations in 1,211 patients in a single centre: experience over 10 years

AIM

To evaluate the incidence of adverse events and associated factors after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma within 30 days.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The early complications that occurred within 30 days after RFA at a single institution from January 2000 to July 2010 were reviewed in order to evaluate the morbidity, mortality, and risk factors associated with the complications. In total, 1,211 patients (845 men, 70.5%) with a mean age of 68 years (range, 27-88 years) underwent 1,843 RFA procedures.

RESULTS

The overall incidence rate of complications was 6.8% (125 cases). Major complications (n=36, 2%) included liver abscess (n=15, 0.8%), intraperitoneal bleeding (n=8, 0.4%), liver failure (n=5, 0.3%), variceal bleeding (n=3, 0.2%), haemothorax (n=2, 0.1%), cholecystitis (n=2, 0.1%), and bowel perforation (n=1, 0.1%). Among the minor complications (n=89, 4.8%), the most common was the post RFA syndrome accompanied by pain and fever (n=75, 4.1%). Other minor complications included significant pleural effusion (n=7, 0.4%), skin wound infection (n=4, 0.2%), and thermal injuries to the skin (n=3, 0.2%). Procedural infections significantly increased with tumour size (OR=1.379; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.191-1.579; p<0.001), and multiple overlapping ablations (OR=1.118; 95% CI, 1.019-1.227, p=0.018). Thrombocytopenia (<50,000/μl), prothrombin time, and serum albumin level were significantly associated with post-RFA bleeding episodes (p=0.041, p=0.021, and p=0.003, respectively). The overall mortality rate was 0.3% (three cases of hepatic failure, two case of sepsis, and one case of renal failure).

CONCLUSIONS

RFA is a safe and effective local treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma. Careful selection of patients and appropriate RFA planning could decrease procedural mortality and morbidity.

Protective and Heat Retention Effects of Thermo-sensitive Basement Membrane Extract (Matrigel) in Hepatic Radiofrequency Ablation in an Experimental Animal Study

PURPOSE

To evaluate the protective effect of using thermo-sensitive basement membrane extract (Matrigel) for hydrodissection to minimize thermal injury to nearby structures and to evaluate its heat sink effect on the ablation zone in radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of the liver.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

First, the viscosity profile and heat sink effect of Matrigel were assessed during RFA in vitro and ex vivo. Fresh pig liver tissue was used, and the temperature changes in Matrigel and in 5% dextrose in water (D5W) during RFA were recorded. Then, the size of the ablation zone in the peripheral liver after RFA was measured. Second, in an in vivo study, 45 Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups of 15 rats each (Matrigel, D5W and control). In the experimental groups, artificial ascites with 10 ml of Matrigel or D5W were injected using ultrasound guidance prior to RFA. The frequency of thermal injury to the nearby organs was compared among the three groups, with assessments of several locations: near the diaphragm, the abdominal wall and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Finally, the biological degradation of Matrigel by ultrasound was evaluated over 60 days.

RESULTS

First, Matrigel produced a greater heat retention (less heat sink) effect than D5W during ex vivo ablation (63 ± 9 vs. 26 ± 6 °C at 1 min on the surface of the liver, P < 0.001). Hepatic ablation zone volume did not differ between the two groups. Second, thermal injury to the nearby structures was found in 14 of 15 cases (93.3%) in the control group, 8 of 15 cases (53.3%) in the D5W group, and 1 of 15 cases (6.7%) in the Matrigel group. Significant differences in the thermal injury rates for nearby structures were detected among the three groups (P < 0.001). The most significant difference in the thermal injury rate was found in locations near the GI tract (P = 0.003). Finally, Matrigel that was injected in vivo was gradually degraded during the following 60 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Using thermo-sensitive Matrigel as a hydrodissection material might help reduce the frequency of collateral thermal injury to nearby structures, especially in locations close to the GI tract, compared to conventional D5W. Additionally, Matrigel did not increase the heat sink effect on the ablation zone during ablation and was degraded over time in vivo.

Radiofrequency ablation of hepatocellular carcinomas: A new spectrum of anesthetic experience at a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan

Background:

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive technique of tumor destruction for patients with hepatic cancer who are not candidates for conventional therapy. The therapy required general anesthesia (GA) or sedation to ensure patient safety and comfort. The study is aimed to report and evaluate factors that influenced the periprocedural anesthetic management, drugs used, and complications during and immediately after RFA procedure for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Methods:

For this retrospective study, we included 46 patients who underwent percutaneous RFA under GA or conscious sedation from January 2010 to June 2013 in Aga Khan University Hospital, Pakistan. The patients' characteristics, hepatic illness severity (Child-Pugh classification), anesthetic techniques, drugs, and complications of procedure were collected on a predesigned approved form. The data were assessed and summarized using descriptive statistics.

Results:

The majority of patients were female (57%) and mostly classified as American Society of Anesthesiologist III (65.2%). The preoperative hepatic illness severity in most patients was Child-Pugh Class A (76.10%). Thirty-eight patients (69.09%) had only single lesion and majority number of lesions were <3 cm (65.45). GA was the main anesthetic technique (87%) with laryngeal mask airway as an airway adjunct predominantly (70%). The mainly used anesthetic agents for hypnosis and analgesia were propofol and fentanyl, respectively. Pain was the only significant complaint in postoperative period but only in nine (19%) patients and mild in nature.

Conclusions:

Percutaneous RFA is a safe treatment of hepatocellular cancer. The procedure required good anesthetic support in the form of sedation-analgesia or complete GA that ensures maximum patient comfort and technical success of the procedure.

Embolization for Bleeding after Hepatic Radiofrequency Ablation

PURPOSE

To evaluate safety and clinical efficacy of embolization for management of bleeding after hepatic radiofrequency (RF) ablation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From January 2000 to December 2014, 5,196 patients with 9,743 tumors underwent 8,303 RF ablation sessions. Of these patients, 62 experienced bleeding after hepatic RF ablation; 15 patients (12 men and 3 women; mean age 62 y; range, 49-76 y) underwent embolization and composed the final study cohort. Tumors were hepatocellular carcinomas in 13 (87%) patients and metastatic adenocarcinomas from colorectal cancer in 2 (13%) patients. Mean number of tumors was 1.5 (22 nodules; range, 1-3). Tumor locations were segment I (n = 1), segment II (n = 2), segment III (n = 1), segment IV (n = 1), segment V (n = 3), segment VI (n = 5), segment VII (n = 1), and segment VIII (n = 9). Mean tumor size was 2.3 cm (range, 0.9-5 cm).

RESULTS

Median time interval between presentation and angiography was 22 hours (mean 38.4 h; range, 3-168 h). On angiography, contrast extravasation with or without pseudoaneurysm was seen in all 15 patients; 14 patients underwent transarterial embolization, and 1 patient underwent percutaneous transhepatic portal vein embolization. Successful hemostasis was achieved in all patients. There was no rebleeding within 30 days after embolization. No embolization-related major complications were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Embolization is safe and effective for controlling bleeding related to hepatic RF ablation without the need for surgery.

Thermal Injury-induced Hepatic Parenchymal Hypoperfusion: Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Recurrence after Radiofrequency Ablation

Purpose To retrospectively evaluate whether thermal injury-induced hepatic parenchymal hypoperfusion can be a significant risk factor for tumor recurrence after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Materials and Methods The institutional review board approved this retrospective study, and the requirement to obtain informed consent was waived. The study population comprised 130 patients (87 men, 43 women; mean age, 61.4 years ± 8.95; age range, 39-84 years) with single nodular HCCs smaller than 5 cm who underwent RFA between January 2011 and December 2012. The development of RFA-induced hepatic parenchymal hypoperfusion was assessed with follow-up computed tomography (CT). After a mean follow-up of 36.7 months ± 10.8, the authors analyzed the overall and recurrence-free survival and the cumulative incidence of each type of recurrence (ie, local tumor progression [LTP], intrahepatic distant recurrence [IDR], and extrahepatic metastasis) by evaluating prognostic factors with use of the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazard regression model. Results RFA-induced hepatic parenchymal hypoperfusion developed in 41 of the 130 patients (31.5%) but did not have a significant effect on overall survival (P = .634). However, the estimated 3-year recurrence-free survival rate was 43.3% in the 41 patients with RFA-induced hepatic parenchymal hypoxia and 61.9% in the 89 patients without hypoxia, a statistically significant difference (P = .019). The 3-year cumulative incidence of IDR was significantly higher in patients with RFA-induced hepatic parenchymal hypoperfusion than in those without hypoxia (33.3% vs 54.1%, P = .006). Conversely, the 3-year cumulative incidence of LTP and extrahepatic metastases showed no significant differences (P > .05 for both). Conclusion The development of RFA-induced hepatic parenchymal hypoperfusion is a significant predictive factor of recurrence (of IDR in particular) after RFA of a single nodular HCC. ^© RSNA, 2016 Online supplemental material is available for this article.

Aggressive Intrasegmental Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma After Combined Transarterial Chemoembolization and Radiofrequency Ablation. AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2016;207:1122-1127. [PMID: 27575338 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.16.16080]

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of combined transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in terms of the frequency of aggressive intrasegmental recurrence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty-one patients (43 men and 18 women; mean [± SD] age, 65.8 ± 8.6 years; age range, 44-82 years) with 71 HCCs (mean [± SD] size, 2.8 ± 0.9 cm; range, 0.7-4.2 cm) underwent combined TACE and RFA. Aggressive intrasegmental recurrence was defined as initial tumor recurrence at least 6 months after treatment and the simultaneous development of recurrence of multiple (at least three) nodular or infiltrative tumors in the treated segment. Tumor contact with a thick (diameter, ≥ 3 mm) portal vein (i.e., periportal HCC) was evaluated. The frequency of aggressive intrasegmental recurrence, the local tumor progression (LTP) rate, and the complication rate were assessed.

RESULTS

The median follow-up period was 25.6 months (range, 6.1-75.5 months). Twenty-two HCCs (31%) were in contact with a thick portal vein. Aggressive intrasegmental recurrence was observed in one patient (representing 1.4% of all treated HCCs and 4.5% of periportal HCCs) after treatment of a 4.0-cm periportal HCC. The cumulative LTP rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were 6.7%, 21.0%, and 30.5%, respectively. The rate of major complications was 6.6%.

CONCLUSION

The frequency of aggressive intrasegmental recurrence after combined TACE and RFA for HCCs was very low.

Hepatocellular carcinoma: From clinical practice to evidence-based treatment protocols

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the major malignant diseases in many healthcare systems. The growing number of new cases diagnosed each year is nearly equal to the number of deaths from this cancer. Worldwide, HCC is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, as it is the fifth most common cancer and the third most important cause of cancer related death in men. Among various risk factors the two are prevailing: viral hepatitis, namely chronic hepatitis C virus is a well-established risk factor contributing to the rising incidence of HCC. The epidemic of obesity and the metabolic syndrome, not only in the United States but also in Asia, tend to become the leading cause of the long-term rise in the HCC incidence. Today, the diagnosis of HCC is established within the national surveillance programs in developed countries while the diagnosis of symptomatic, advanced stage disease still remains the characteristic of underdeveloped countries. Although many different staging systems have been developed and evaluated the Barcelona-Clinic Liver Cancer staging system has emerged as the most useful to guide HCC treatment. Treatment allocation should be decided by a multidisciplinary board involving hepatologists, pathologists, radiologists, liver surgeons and oncologists guided by personalized -based medicine. This approach is important not only to balance between different oncologic treatments strategies but also due to the complexity of the disease (chronic liver disease and the cancer) and due to the large number of potentially efficient therapies. Careful patient selection and a tailored treatment modality for every patient, either potentially curative (surgical treatment and tumor ablation) or palliative (transarterial therapy, radioembolization and medical treatment, i.e., sorafenib) is mandatory to achieve the best treatment outcome.

Radiofrequency Ablation with an Internally Cooled Monopolar Directional Electrode: Ex Vivo and in Vivo Experimental Studies in the Liver

PURPOSE

To evaluate the feasibility of using an internally cooled directional electrode (ICDE) to create sufficient directional ablation in the desired area and to investigate whether use of the ICDE reduces thermal injury to the adjacent organs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The animal care and use committee approved this animal study. In ex vivo studies of bovine livers and colons, temperature was measured in both ablation and nonablation directions with the ICDE, temperature at the liver-colon interface and the presence of burns on the colon were evaluated with each ICDE and internally cooled conventional electrode (ICCE), and the ablation area with the use of three ICDEs in the switching multichannel mode was evaluated. In an in vivo study of 10 pigs, 11 ablations were performed by using three ICDEs in the switching multichannel mode. In addition, the difference in thermal injury to the gallbladder and stomach was compared between use of the ICDE and the ICCE. Mann-Whitney test and the Fisher exact test were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

In the ex vivo study, the hepatic temperature in the nonablation direction was lower than 50°C; temperature higher than 47°C was maintained for less than 3 minutes, even 0.5 cm away from the ICDE; and the temperature at the liver-colon interface did not increase above 50°C. In the switching multichannel mode, a fused coagulation zone was created. In the in vivo study, confluent ablation was created in the inner circle of three ICDEs with a mean interelectrode distance of less than 2.6 cm. Use of the ICDE did not create a moderate-to-severe gallbladder wall injury in any of the pigs, but use of the ICCE caused injury in three of the five pigs (P > .05). The ICDE caused moderate-to-severe gastric wall injury at one of eight ablations, and the ICCE caused injury at eight of nine ablations (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Use of an ICDE can create a sufficient ablation in the desired direction and can decrease thermal injury to the adjacent organs.

[Percutaneous ablation of hepatocellular carcinoma in older patients in clinical practice]

INTRODUCTION

A high percentage of older patients with early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are potential candidates for percutaneous ablation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We prospectively assessed data from patients older than 70 years with HCC. We determined their demographic and clinical characteristics, the treatment provided and the response, complications and survival among those treated with radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and/or percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI).

RESULTS

Of 194 patients with HCC, 84 were older than 70 years (43.3%). The mean age was 76.8 ± 4.5 years. Seventy-five percent were male and 91.7% had cirrhosis. Cancer was initially identified by a surveillance program in 61.9%. According to the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system, 60.7% were classified as having early stage cancer (0-A), 19% as stage B, 12% as stage C, and 8.3% as stage D. Potentially curative initial treatment was provided in 38.2% (surgical resection in 4.8%, PEI in 22.6%, RFA in 4.8%, PEI+RFA in 6%), transarterial chemoembolization in 20.2%, and sorafenib in 3.6%. Twenty-five percent of patients were not treatment candidates and 13% refused the recommended treatment. The median follow-up after percutaneous ablation was 23 months (IQR 14.2-40.6). The mean number of sessions was 3.5 ± 2.2 for PEI and 1.8 ± 1.6 for RFA. The complications rate per session was 4%. Remission was achieved in 35.7%. The overall median survival was 45.7 months (95% CI 20.8-70.6).

CONCLUSIONS

Almost half of the patients with HCC in our sample were elderly and more than half were diagnosed at an early stage. Percutaneous ablation was performed in one-third of the sample, achieving remission in 37.5%. There were few complications. Therefore, these patients should be assessed for percutaneous ablation.