Ultrasound-guided percutaneous microwave ablation for small liver cancers adjacent to large vessels: long-term outcomes and strategies

Abstract

Abstract Objective The aim of the study was to evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of percutaneous microwave ablation (MWA) for small hepatic cancers adjacent to large vessels and to investigate the treatment strategies. Methods From March 2009 to July 2015, a total of 86 patients with 94 tumors underwent ultrasound (US)-guided percutaneous MWA, with pathologically proven or clinically diagnosed liver cancers measuring ≤ 3 cm in diameter and located ≤ 10 mm from a major vessel (n = 94). Regular follow-up after MWA was performed to assess treatment efficacy and perioperative complications. Results The complete ablation rate at 1 month after MWA was 93.3% (84/90). The 6-, 9-, 12-, 24-, 36-, 48-, 60-, 72-, and 84-month local recurrence rates were 2.4%, 2.4%, 3.7%, 6.6%, 8.4%, 8.4%, 8.4%, 8.4%, and 8.4%, respectively. There were no major complications. The perioperative special complication rate was 5.32% (5/94), including 3 cases of moderate liver function damage and 2 cases of limited sub-capsular hematoma. Conclusion Percutaneous MWA for small hepatic cancers adjacent to large vessels is feasible, effective, and safe with an acceptable rate of complications. The key point is to strictly follow operative indications and adopt proper treatment strategies.