Combined radiofrequency ablation [RFA] and percutaneous acetic acid injection [PAI] versus radiofrequency ablation alone for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma [HCC]

ABSTRACT

Hepatocellular carcinoma [HCC] is one of the most commonly occurring solid tumors worldwide. Percutaneous acetic-acid injection [PAI] and radiofrequency ablation are options for treatment. The aim is to compare the efficacy and safety of combined radiofrequency and acetic acid injection versus radiofrequency alone for ablation of HCC. This study was conducted on 40 patients having HCC. Group 1 [20 patients] was subjected to radiofrequency ablation preceded by intra-tumoral acetic acid injection [RFA+AA]. Group 2 [20 patients was subjected to RFA alone. The procedure was successful in 18 [90%] patients of group 1 and in 15 [75%] of group 2. RFA+ AA are most effective than RFA alone as acetic acid injection may enhance the ablation induced by RFA