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Hepatic tumors treated by cryosurgery: normal CT appearance
B S Kuszyk1, M A Choti, B A Urban
1Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|February 1, 1996
Summary
Postoperative CT scans of hepatic cryoablation show findings that can mimic complications. Careful analysis is needed to differentiate normal changes from hepatic abscess or infarct after cryosurgery.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Hepatology
Background:
- Accurate interpretation of CT findings after hepatic cryoablation is crucial.
- Distinguishing normal postoperative changes from complications like abscess or infarct is essential for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the normal spectrum of CT findings following cryoablation of hepatic tumors.
- To provide a reference for radiologists interpreting post-cryoablation liver imaging.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of CT scans from 14 patients 4-16 days post-hepatic cryoablation.
- Exclusion of patients with complications requiring intervention (abscess, infarct, hemorrhage).
- Correlation of CT findings with surgical data to confirm cryolesions.
Main Results:
- Twenty-eight cryolesions (3-11 cm) were identified, predominantly hypodense and extending to the liver capsule.
- Air (36%) and hemorrhage (93%) were common within lesions; peripheral enhancement (54%) was noted with IV contrast.
- Associated findings included pleural effusion (93%), atelectasis (93%), perihepatic fluid (43%), and ascites (7%).
Conclusions:
- Postoperative CT appearance after uncomplicated hepatic cryoablation can resemble hepatic abscess or infarct.
- Careful analysis is required to differentiate normal post-procedural changes from complications.
- Differentiating complications from normal changes on CT may be challenging in some cases.