Radiofrequency ablation combined with transarterial chemoembolization for intermediate hepatocellular carcinoma

AimRadiofrequency ablation therapy (RFA) combined with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) (combination therapy) is effective for early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of this study was to compare the long-term effects of combination therapy with supportive care alone for intermediate HCC. MethodsThe study included 58 patients with intermediate HCC who received combination therapy (n=34) or supportive care alone (n=24). The inclusion criteria were a single nodule of more than 50mm in diameter or two to three nodules, each measuring more than 30mm in diameter, or more than three nodules, no vascular invasion and no extrahepatic metastasis. ResultsThe overall survival rates at 1, 2, 3 and 5 years of the combination therapy group (91%, 65%, 53% and 27%, respectively) were significantly better (P<0.0001) than those of the supportive care group (42%, 8%, 8% and 0%, respectively). Multivariate analysis identified treatment modality (combination therapy vs supportive care alone: P<0.0001, risk ratio [RR]=4.290 [95% confidence interval [CI]=2.157-8.529]) and serum -fetoprotein (P=0.017, RR=2.318 [95% CI=1.166-4.610]) as independent and significant factors of overall survival. ConclusionThe combination of TACE and RFA is a safe and effective therapy in patients with intermediate HCC.