Percutaneous radiofrequency thermoablation as an alternative to surgery for treatment of liver tumour recurrence after hepatectomy

Background: Radiofrequency (RF) current, converted into heat through ion agitation and friction, can destroy liver tumours by means of coagulation necrosis. This study assessed whether percutaneous RF ablation is a useful and safe technique for the treatment of liver tumour recurrence after hepatectomy. Methods: Forty-seven patients presenting with local recurrence after hepatectomy for malignant tumours (29 with colorectal secondaries) were treated with percutaneous RF ablation instead of repeat hepatectomy. RF thermal ablation was performed under image guidance for 12-15 min. This group represented 63 per cent of 75 patients treated with curative intent for liver recurrence in the same time interval. The other 28 patients underwent repeat hepatectomy. Results: The mean(s.d.) number of liver metastases destroyed was 1.4(0.7) (range 1-3) and their diameter was 21(8) (range 9-35) mm. Twenty-six patients presented with liver recurrence at least once but up to three times after the initial RF application. Incomplete local RF treatment was observed in six of 47 patients. Fifteen patients developed extrahepatic recurrence. The mean(s.d.) interval between RF ablation and the last follow-up visit was 14.4(10.1) (range 5.5-40) months. One death and three major complications occurred. Survival rates at 1 and 2 years were 88 and 55 per cent respectively. A retrospective study of the authors' database over two similar consecutive periods showed that RF ablation increased the percentage of curative local treatments for liver recurrence after hepatectomy from 17 to 26 per cent and decreased the proportion of repeat hepatectomies from 100 to to 39 per cent. Conclusions: Percutaneous RF treatment increases the number of patients eligible for curative treatment. It should be preferred to repeat hepatectomy when feasible and safe because it is less invasive. Repeat hepatectomy is indicated only when percutaneous RF ablation is contraindicated or fails.