Radiofrequency ablation combined with percutaneous ethanol injection for hepatocellular carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

The combination of RFA and PEI appears to be the optimal treatment strategy when considering combined RFA-PEI or either RFA or PEI alone. Combined RFA-PEI significantly improves OS and reduces the risk of local recurrence without increasing major complications. Further large-scale studies are needed to assess economic outcomes and quality of life.

Comparison of intraluminal radiofrequency ablation and stents vs. stents alone in the management of malignant biliary obstruction

“…Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a well-known percutaneous approach that has widely been used in the treatment of primary and metastatic hepatic malignancy and lung tumours, with demonstrated effectiveness [6][7][8]. The application of RF ablation in the treatment of extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma [9], colorectal cancer [10] and oesophagus dysplasia [11] has also been evaluated.…”

Percutaneous CT-guided radiofrequency ablation for patients with extrahepatic oligometastases of hepatocellular carcinoma: long-term results

“…Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) continues to be the most prevalent primary malignancy of the liver and is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide [1][2][3]. Approximately, 13.5-36.7% patients with HCC will develop extrahepatic metastases (EHM), which are indicative of advanced stage disease according to the Barcelona clinic liver cancer (BCLC) staging system [4][5][6][7].…”

Combined Treatments in Liver Ablations

“…46 Despite the presence of limited randomized trials assessing the value of RFA and PEI compared with RFA, a few metaanalyses have been published. 48,49 In a systematic review including eight trials and 969 patients, Zhu et al reported significantly better OS and complete ablation rates following RFA combined with PEI compared with RFA alone. 49 Finally, two recent retrospective studies investigated the results of RFA and PEI in postsurgical recurrences, compared with hepatic resection.…”