Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Combined Transarterial Chemoembolization and Ablation.

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death. Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) has become a mainstay for the treatment of large unresectable or multifocal HCCs that are not amenable to surgical resection. Additionally, ablation methods have been developed for patients with small HCCs who are not candidates for surgical resection or liver transplantation, and for patients with early stage HCC awaiting transplantation. The use of combined TACE and ablation can overcome the limitations when either is used alone, as well as conferring a survival benefit. The purpose of this article is to provide the trainee with a primer on the use of combined TACE ablation, including a literature review of combined therapy. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary hepatic malignancy and represents one of the leading causes of cancer-related death.[1] Additionally, liver cancer incidence has more than tripled since 1980.[2]