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Radiofrequency ablation for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: retrospective analysis of a single centre experience
Antonio Giorgio1, Giorgio Calisti, Giorgio DE Stefano
1IX Infectious Diseases and Interventional Ultrasound Unit, D. Cotugno Hospital, Via G. Quagliarello 54, 80131 Naples, Italy. assanui1@virgilio.it
Purpose:
To evaluate the usefulness and safety of radiofrequency ablation for primary and recurrent intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) in our single centre experience.
Materials And Methods:
Ten patients with ICC refusing or not eligible for surgery underwent radiofrequency ablation for their tumor. The ICC was primary in 9 cases and recurrent, after 2 previous resections, in 1 patient. Radiofrequency ablation was performed percutaneously under ultrasound guidance using a 15G perfused electrode. Technical success of the procedure was assessed by contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). Technical effectiveness was evaluated by CEUS and contrast enhanced CT 1 month after the last course of a defined ablation protocol. Follow-up contrast enhanced CT or MRI were performed every 3-6 months.
Results:
RFA was always technically successful and effective for ICC lesions ≤3.4 cm and ineffective for lesion ≥4 cm. After a median follow-up of 19.5 months (range 9-64 months), 8 patients were still alive while 2 had died due to tumor progression. The 1-, 3- and 5-year overall survival rate of all patients with ICC of our series were 100%, 83.3% and 83.3%. No major complication was observed.
Conclusion:
Radiofrequency ablation seems to be a safe and effective option for small (≤3.4 cm) ICC nodules. In addition it may be considered as a palliative treatment for larger tumors.
