Immediate and Long-term Results of Radiofrequency Ablation for Colorectal Liver Metastases

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of colorectal liver metastases (CRLMs) is a method developed in the last 15 years. It provides an acceptable control of the malignant process with lower risks compared to surgical resection. The aim of the study was to assess immediate and long-term results, including recurrence, survival, morbidity/mortality rates after RFA.

Sixty-two cases with CRLMs were treated by RFA during open surgery (89 lesions). Patients were followed-up for a minimum of 36 months, with assessment of recurrences and survival rates at 1, 2 and 3 years, using computed tomography (CT) scan, contrast-enhanced ultrasound and tumor markers (carcinoembryonoc antigen, carbohydrate antigen-19.9).

Local relapses, recurrences in other areas and survival rates at 1, 2 and 3 years suggest acceptable values comparative with liver resections in the first 2-3 years and demonstrated long-term limitations, despite the use of adjuvant chemotherapy. Major postoperative negative prognostic factors are tumor multicentricity and tumor's dimensions over 5 cm.

RFA of CRLMs is a safe procedure with low rates of local relapses and recurrences, as well as acceptable survival rates, in the first 24-36 months post-procedure. It is recommended for patients with no indications for liver resection or having major resection risks.