The Role of Combination of Transarterial Chemoebolization and Radiofrequency Ablation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treatment

ABSTRACT

Recently, various combination therapies have been applied to the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Among various treatment modalities, transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) were combined to improve the therapeutic effect of RFA. The decrease of blood flow by TACE can increase the size of the ablation area by reducing heat loss during RFA. Based on these theoretical advantages, TACE and RFA combination therapy have been tried for the treatment of patients with HCC which is not feasible to be removed by surgery. However, TACE and RFA combination therapy has not been standardized by various protocols for each study. This review discusses the implications and role of this treatment, although there are several limitations to clearly demonstrate the indications and efficacy of TACE and RFA combination therapies.