Artificial ascites assisted ultrasound guided fusion virtual MRI navigation radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma adjoining hollow viscera

Abstract

Objective To evaluate ultrasound assisted virtual MRI guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) adjacent to gastrointestinal tract with artificial ascites. Methods A total of 33 HCC lesions in 32 patients adjacent to gastrointestinal tract in our hospital were collected. After the establishment of artificial ascites, they were treated with radiofrequency ablation guided by ultrasound-guiding fusion and virtual MRI navigation.The curative effect and complication rate were compared with the control group (non-hollow GI tract abutting HCC lesions) . Results All 33 lesions were completely ablated without residual. After 1 month and 3 months follow-up, the reexamination of contrast-enhanced ultrasound and MRI showed no activity and no new lesions. All cases had no serious complications such as gastrointestinal injury. There were no statistically significant differences in tumor complete inactivation rate, complication rate and recurrence rate between the two groups. Conclusion Ultrasound-guiding fusion and virtual MRI guided radiofrequency ablation with artificial ascites is safe and effective in the treatment of liver cancer adjacent to gastrointestinal tract. Key words: Liver neoplasms; Catheter ablation; Gastrointestinal tract