Radiofrequency Ablation Combined with Hepatic Artery Embolization Using a Tris-acryl Gelatin Microsphere for Colorectal Liver Metastases-Initial Experience

PURPOSE: We aim to evaluate retrospectively the feasibility, safety, and initial therapeutic outcomes of radiofrequency ablation combined with hepatic artery embolization using a tris-acryl gelatin microsphere for colorectal liver metastases. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Six consecutive patients (4 men and 2 women) with median age of 68 years (range 57-78 years) underwent computed tomography fluoroscopy-guided radiofrequency ablation immediately after hepatic artery embolization using microspheres. This study evaluated tumor visibility on noncontrast-enhanced computed tomography immediately after hepatic artery embolization; analyzed local tumor progression; defined technical success as the coverage of the tumor by the ablative zone; and assessed adverse events based on Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v5.0. RESULTS: Ten tumors with median maximum diameter of 9 mm (range 5-52 mm) were treated in nine sessions. Eight tumors (80%, 8/10 tumors) were detected as high-attenuation nodules. One tumor was treated in two sessions because follow-up computed tomography revealed an insufficient ablative margin. Therefore, the primary and secondary technical success was 90% (9/10 tumors) and 100% (10/10 tumors), respectively. Grade 2 pneumothorax was observed in one session (11%, 1/9 sessions). No grade 3 or higher adverse event was observed. The local tumor progression rate was 20% (2/10 tumors) during the median follow-up of 14 months. CONCLUSIONS: Radiofrequency ablation following microsphere embolization may be a feasible, safe, and useful therapeutic option for controlling small colorectal liver metastases.