Abstract:
Objective To assess efficiency of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in the treatment of early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma within the Milan criteria and analyze prognostic factors.
Methods Reviews were conducted on clinical data of 72 patients with earlystage hepatocellular carcinoma meeting the Milan criteria who underwent RFA in Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital. Recovery status after RFA was assessed, as well as recurrence rate, survival rate, and risk factors associated with prognosis were analyzed.
Results Slight post-RFA complications were observed, and all 72 patients recovered rapidly. For 1-, 2-, and 3-year cumulative recurrence rates, computed values reached 12.50%, 20.83%, and 33.33%, respectively. For 1-, 2-, and 3-year cumulative survival rates, computed values totaled 93.06%, 87.50%, and 79.17%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that tumor size was closely associated with recurrence and that tumor size and serum albumin levels before RFA were predictive factors for overall survival.
Conclusion RFA is an effective method in treatment of early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma within the Milan criteria. Tumor size is an independent risk factor of recurrence and along with preoperative serum albumin levels, it is a significant factor affecting overall survival of patients.