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Dai R, Uppot R, Arellano R, Kalva S. Image-guided Ablative Procedures. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2024; 36:484-497. [PMID: 38087706 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2023.11.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Various image-guided ablative procedures include chemical and thermal ablation techniques and irreversible electroporation. These have been used for curative intent for small tumours and palliative intent for debulking, immunogenicity and pain control. Understanding these techniques is critical to avoiding complications and achieving superior clinical outcomes. Additionally, combination with immunotherapy and chemotherapies is rapidly evolving. There are numerous opportunities in interventional radiology to advance ablation techniques and seamlessly integrate into current treatment regimens for both benign and malignant tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Dai
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Radiology, Division of Intervention Radiology, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - R Uppot
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Radiology, Division of Intervention Radiology, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - R Arellano
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Radiology, Division of Intervention Radiology, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - S Kalva
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Radiology, Division of Intervention Radiology, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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2
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Lucas AP, Lewis AR, Kasi PM, Toskich BB, Paz-Fumagalli R. Abscopal downstaging of intermediate stage hepatocellular via combination cryoablation and immunotherapy with complete pathologic response. Radiol Case Rep 2024; 19:910-914. [PMID: 38188944 PMCID: PMC10770505 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2023.11.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The abscopal effect is a rare phenomenon characterized by disease regression in distant sites after tumoral locoregional therapy. Locoregional therapy, such as cryoablation, can induce an antitumor immunological response, potentially improving outcomes in cancer patients receiving immunotherapy. This report describes a patient with multifocal hepatocellular carcinoma who progressed through multiple locoregional therapies, was initially unresponsive to immunotherapy, and later achieved rapid and sustained disease regression with a combination cryoablation and immunotherapy. A 5-year sustained complete tumor response successfully bridged to liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana P. Lucas
- Mayo Clinic Florida, 4500 San Pablo Rd, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Andrew R. Lewis
- Mayo Clinic Florida, 4500 San Pablo Rd, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Pashtoon M. Kasi
- Weill Cornell Medicine/New York-Presbyterian, 525 E 68th St, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Beau B. Toskich
- Mayo Clinic Florida, 4500 San Pablo Rd, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
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Li B, Ren ZW, Zhang C, Yu XX, Xu XX, Du Y, Yang HF. Computed tomography-guided percutaneous cryoablation and microwave ablation in the treatment of perivascular hepatocellular carcinoma: A comparative study with propensity score matching. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2024; 48:102298. [PMID: 38367802 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2024.102298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the safety and efficacy of cryoablation (CYA) and microwave ablation (MWA) in the treatment of patients with perivascular hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS Patients with perivascular HCC who underwent computed tomography (CT)-guided percutaneous CYA or MVA treatment in our hospital from August 2009 to March 2019 were included. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to adjust for potential baseline differences in the two groups. The technical success rate (TS), complications, and visual analog scale (VAS) were analyzed. The overall survival (OS) was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS After PSM, 32 patients from each group were selected. The technical success rate was 94 % for CYA and 91 % for MWA, and 13 patients developed recurrence (CYA, n = 5, 2 local, 3 distant; MWA, n = 8, 6 local, 2 distant). There were no significant differences in OS (36-months OS: CYA 53.1 % vs, MWA 40.6 %; P = 0.191). No intraoperative deaths or complication-related deaths were observed, and 19 patients (CYA, n = 8; MWA, n = 11) experienced complications (P = 0.435). The VAS in the MWA group (5.38 ± 1.21) was significantly higher than that in the CYA group (2.22 ± 0.87; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS While CYA has equal safety and high primary efficacy as MWA in the treatment of perivascular HCC, it is associated with less periprocedural pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Li
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong City, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Zi Wang Ren
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong City, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Chuan Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong City, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xiao Xuan Yu
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong City, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xiao Xue Xu
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong City, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yong Du
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong City, Sichuan Province, China.
| | - Han Feng Yang
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong City, Sichuan Province, China.
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4
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Huang X, Xu X, Du H, Sun Q, Wu M. Meta-analysis of cryoablation versus radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of malignant liver tumors. Int J Hyperthermia 2024; 41:2300347. [PMID: 38190758 DOI: 10.1080/02656736.2023.2300347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A meta-analysis was conducted to assess the efficacy and safety of cryoablation (CRA) compared with radiofrequency ablation (RFA). METHODS A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Wanfang, CNKI, and VIP databases was conducted to identify clinical controlled studies comparing CRA versus RFA for hepatic malignancies up to July 2022. The meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3. RESULTS A comprehensive analysis was conducted on 8 clinical controlled studies involving a total of 943 patients. There were no significant differences in the incidence of complications, complete ablation of lesions, local recurrence, and 1-year survival between the CRA and RFA groups (OR = 0.98, 95%CI: 0.61-1.55, p = 0.92; OR = 1.08, 95%CI: 0.62-1.90, p = 0.78; OR = 1.28, 95%CI: 0.49-3.36, p = 0.61; and OR = 1.14, 95%CI: 0.63-2.06, p = 0.66, respectively). CONCLUSION The efficacy and safety profile of CRA was comparable to that of RFA in the context of ablation therapy for hepatic malignancies. These findings suggested that CRA may be a valuable alternative to RFA in the treatment of hepatic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangzhong Huang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Jiangyin Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Jiangyin City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xinjian Xu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Jiangyin Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Jiangyin City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Hongtao Du
- Department of Radiology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Qiulian Sun
- Department of Radiology, The Fifth People's Hospital of Suzhou, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Minyu Wu
- Department of Radiology, The Fifth People's Hospital of Suzhou, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, China
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Crocetti L, Scalise P, Bozzi E, Candita G, Cioni R. Thermal ablation of hepatocellular carcinoma. J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol 2023; 67:817-831. [PMID: 38093656 DOI: 10.1111/1754-9485.13613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
Percutaneous treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by means of thermal ablation (TA) has been introduced in clinical guidelines as a potentially curative treatment for the early stages of the disease since the early 2000s. Due to its safety profile and cost-effectiveness, TA can be offered as a first-line treatment for patients with HCC smaller than 3 cm. Thermal ablative techniques are in fact widely available at many centres worldwide and include radiofrequency (RF) and microwave (MW) ablation, with the latter increasingly applied in clinical practice in the last decade. Pre-clinical studies highlighted, as potential advantages of MW-based ablation, the ability to achieve higher temperatures (>100°C) and larger ablation zones in shorter times, with less susceptibility to blood flow-induced heat sink effects. Despite these advantages, there is no evidence of superior overall survival in patients treated with MW as compared to those treated with RF ablation. Local control has been proven to be superior to MW ablation with a similar complication rate. It is expected that further improvement of TA results in the treatment of HCC will result from the refinement of guidance and monitoring tools and the careful assessment of ablation margins. Thermal ablative treatments may also be performed on nodules larger than 3 cm by applying multiple devices or combining percutaneous and intra-arterial approaches. The role of novel immunotherapy regimens in combination with ablation is also currently under evaluation in clinical trials, with several potential benefits. In this review, indications, technical principles, results, and future prospects of TA for the treatment of HCC will be examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Crocetti
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Scalise
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elena Bozzi
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gianvito Candita
- Department of Translational Research, Academic Radiology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Roberto Cioni
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy
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D'Souza DL, Ragulojan R, Guo C, Dale CM, Jones CJ, Talaie R. Thermal Ablation in the Liver: Heat versus Cold-What Is the Role of Cryoablation? Semin Intervent Radiol 2023; 40:491-496. [PMID: 38274220 PMCID: PMC10807970 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1777845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Cryoablation is commonly used in the kidney, lung, breast, and soft tissue, but is an uncommon choice in the liver where radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA) predominate. This is in part for historical reasons due to serious complications that occurred with open hepatic cryoablation using early technology. More current technology combined with image-guided percutaneous approaches has ameliorated these issues and allowed cryoablation to become a safe and effective thermal ablation modality for treating liver tumors. Cryoablation has several advantages over RFA and MWA including the ability to visualize the ice ball, minimal procedural pain, and strong immunomodulatory effects. This article will review the current literature on cryoablation of primary and secondary liver tumors, with a focus on efficacy, safety, and immunogenic potential. Clinical scenarios when it may be more beneficial to use cryoablation over heat-based ablation in the liver, as well as directions for future research, will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna L. D'Souza
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Ranjan Ragulojan
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Chunxiao Guo
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Connie M. Dale
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Christopher J. Jones
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Reza Talaie
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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Wade R, South E, Anwer S, Sharif-Hurst S, Harden M, Fulbright H, Hodgson R, Dias S, Simmonds M, Rowe I, Thornton P, Eastwood A. Ablative and non-surgical therapies for early and very early hepatocellular carcinoma: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Health Technol Assess 2023; 27:1-172. [PMID: 38149643 PMCID: PMC11017143 DOI: 10.3310/gk5221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A wide range of ablative and non-surgical therapies are available for treating small hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with very early or early-stage disease and preserved liver function. Objective To review and compare the effectiveness of all current ablative and non-surgical therapies for patients with small hepatocellular carcinoma (≤ 3 cm). Design Systematic review and network meta-analysis. Data sources Nine databases (March 2021), two trial registries (April 2021) and reference lists of relevant systematic reviews. Review methods Eligible studies were randomised controlled trials of ablative and non-surgical therapies, versus any comparator, for small hepatocellular carcinoma. Randomised controlled trials were quality assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool and mapped. The comparative effectiveness of therapies was assessed using network meta-analysis. A threshold analysis was used to identify which comparisons were sensitive to potential changes in the evidence. Where comparisons based on randomised controlled trial evidence were not robust or no randomised controlled trials were identified, a targeted systematic review of non-randomised, prospective comparative studies provided additional data for repeat network meta-analysis and threshold analysis. The feasibility of undertaking economic modelling was explored. A workshop with patients and clinicians was held to discuss the findings and identify key priorities for future research. Results Thirty-seven randomised controlled trials (with over 3700 relevant patients) were included in the review. The majority were conducted in China or Japan and most had a high risk of bias or some risk of bias concerns. The results of the network meta-analysis were uncertain for most comparisons. There was evidence that percutaneous ethanol injection is inferior to radiofrequency ablation for overall survival (hazard ratio 1.45, 95% credible interval 1.16 to 1.82), progression-free survival (hazard ratio 1.36, 95% credible interval 1.11 to 1.67), overall recurrence (relative risk 1.19, 95% credible interval 1.02 to 1.39) and local recurrence (relative risk 1.80, 95% credible interval 1.19 to 2.71). Percutaneous acid injection was also inferior to radiofrequency ablation for progression-free survival (hazard ratio 1.63, 95% credible interval 1.05 to 2.51). Threshold analysis showed that further evidence could plausibly change the result for some comparisons. Fourteen eligible non-randomised studies were identified (n ≥ 2316); twelve had a high risk of bias so were not included in updated network meta-analyses. Additional non-randomised data, made available by a clinical advisor, were also included (n = 303). There remained a high level of uncertainty in treatment rankings after the network meta-analyses were updated. However, the updated analyses suggested that microwave ablation and resection are superior to percutaneous ethanol injection and percutaneous acid injection for some outcomes. Further research on stereotactic ablative radiotherapy was recommended at the workshop, although it is only appropriate for certain patient subgroups, limiting opportunities for adequately powered trials. Limitations Many studies were small and of poor quality. No comparative studies were found for some therapies. Conclusions The existing evidence base has limitations; the uptake of specific ablative therapies in the United Kingdom appears to be based more on technological advancements and ease of use than strong evidence of clinical effectiveness. However, there is evidence that percutaneous ethanol injection and percutaneous acid injection are inferior to radiofrequency ablation, microwave ablation and resection. Study registration PROSPERO CRD42020221357. Funding This award was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment (HTA) programme (NIHR award ref: NIHR131224) and is published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 27, No. 29. See the NIHR Funding and Awards website for further award information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ros Wade
- Research Fellow, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, Heslington, UK
| | - Emily South
- Research Fellow, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, Heslington, UK
| | - Sumayya Anwer
- Research Fellow, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, Heslington, UK
| | - Sahar Sharif-Hurst
- Research Fellow, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, Heslington, UK
| | - Melissa Harden
- Information Specialist, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, Heslington, UK
| | - Helen Fulbright
- Information Specialist, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, Heslington, UK
| | - Robert Hodgson
- Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, Heslington, UK
| | - Sofia Dias
- Professor in Health Technology Assessment, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, Heslington, UK
| | - Mark Simmonds
- Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, Heslington, UK
| | - Ian Rowe
- Honorary Consultant Hepatologist, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
| | | | - Alison Eastwood
- Professor of Research, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, Heslington, UK
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Lin WC, Chen PJ, Yim S, Wang HH, Liao PA, Tai CY, Yen MH. The safety and response of CT guided percutaneous cryoablation for lung nodules by 17-gauge needles. BMC Med Imaging 2023; 23:151. [PMID: 37814246 PMCID: PMC10561456 DOI: 10.1186/s12880-023-01110-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The safety and efficacy of 17-gauge needles used in CT-guided percutaneous cryoablation for lung nodules were explored in this study. The purpose of the study was to compare the findings with earlier research and multi-center clinical trials that used various needle sizes. METHODS Between 2016 and 2020, a retrospective study was conducted with approval from the institutional review board. A total of 41 patients were enrolled, and 71 lung nodules were treated in 63 cryoablation procedures using local anesthesia. Complication rates were recorded, and overall survival rates as well as tumor progression-free rates were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS Self-limited hemoptysis was caused by 12.9% of the procedures, and drainage was required for pneumothoraces resulting from 11.3% of them. The overall survival rates at one, two, three, and four years were 97%, 94%, 82%, and 67%, respectively. The tumor progression-free rates at one, two, three, and four years were 86.2%, 77%, 74%, and 65%, respectively. CONCLUSION Cryoablation for lung nodules using 17-Gauge needles can achieve similar rates of survival and tumor control rates, similar or even lower complication rates as compared with other studies and multi-center trials using mixed sized needles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Chan Lin
- School of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, 24205, Taiwan.
- Department of Radiology, Cathay General Hospital, No.280 Sec 4 Ren-Ai Rd, Taipei, 10630, Taiwan.
| | - Po-Ju Chen
- School of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, 24205, Taiwan
- Department of Chest Surgery, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei City, 10630, Taiwan
| | - Shelly Yim
- School of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, 24205, Taiwan
- Department of Chest Surgery, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei City, 10630, Taiwan
| | - Hsueh-Han Wang
- School of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, 24205, Taiwan
- Department of Radiology, Cathay General Hospital, No.280 Sec 4 Ren-Ai Rd, Taipei, 10630, Taiwan
| | - Pen-An Liao
- School of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, 24205, Taiwan
- Department of Radiology, Cathay General Hospital, No.280 Sec 4 Ren-Ai Rd, Taipei, 10630, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yu Tai
- School of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, 24205, Taiwan
- Department of Radiology, Cathay General Hospital, No.280 Sec 4 Ren-Ai Rd, Taipei, 10630, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hong Yen
- School of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, 24205, Taiwan
- Department of Chest Surgery, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei City, 10630, Taiwan
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Kim HI, An J, Han S, Shim JH. Loco-regional therapies competing with radiofrequency ablation in potential indications for hepatocellular carcinoma: a network meta-analysis. Clin Mol Hepatol 2023; 29:1013-1028. [PMID: 37403319 PMCID: PMC10577337 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2023.0131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS There is no clear consensus on the relative ranking of interventional and radiation techniques with indications similar to those of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the treatment of early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We used a network meta-analysis to compare the efficacy of non-surgical treatments for early HCC. METHODS We searched databases for randomized trials assessing the efficacy of loco-regional treatments for HCCs ≤5 cm with no extrahepatic spread or portal invasion. The primary outcome was the pooled hazard ratio (HR) for overall survival (OS), and secondary outcomes included overall and local progression-free survival (PFS). A frequentist network meta-analysis was performed, and the relative ranking of therapies was assessed with P-scores. RESULTS Nineteen studies comparing 11 different strategies in 2,793 patients were included. Chemoembolization plus RFA improved OS better than RFA alone (HR 0.52, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.33-0.82; P-score=0.951). Cryoablation, microwave ablation, laser ablation, and proton beam therapy had similar effects on OS compared with RFA. For overall PFS, but not local PFS, only chemoembolization plus RFA performed significantly better than RFA (HR 0.61, 95% CI 0.42-0.88; P-score=0.964). Injection of percutaneous ethanol or acetic acid was significantly less effective than RFA for all measured outcomes, while no differences in progression outcomes were identified for other therapies included in the network. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that chemoembolization combined with RFA is the best option for local treatment of early HCC. Cases with potential contraindications for RFA may benefit from a tailored approach using thermal or radiation modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ha Il Kim
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Guri, Korea
| | - Jihyun An
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Guri, Korea
| | - Seungbong Han
- Biostatistics, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ju Hyun Shim
- Asan Liver Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Gastroenterology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Wen Z, Wang J, Tu B, Liu Y, Yang Y, Hou L, Yang X, Liu X, Xie H. Radiofrequency ablation combined with toripalimab for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma: A prospective controlled trial. Cancer Med 2023; 12:20311-20320. [PMID: 37814921 PMCID: PMC10652346 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The effectiveness and security of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in combination with toripalimab (anti-PD-1) for the treatment of recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was studied in this article. METHODS Total of 40 patients were enrolled in the study between September 2019 and November 2021. Data follow-up ends in April 2022. The study's main focus is on recurrence free survival (RFS), while the secondary objectives was safety. Chi-square tests, Kaplan-Meier, and Cox proportional hazards models were utilized to analyze the data. RESULTS The median follow-up period was 21.40 months, and the median RFS was 15.40 months in the group that received combination therapy, which was statistically significantly different (HR: 0.44, p = 0.04) compared with the RFA group (8.2 months). RFS rates (RFSr) at 6, 12 and 18 months in the combination therapy groups and RFA groups were 80% vs 65%, 62.7% vs 35% and 48.7% vs 18.8%, respectively. Between the two groups, significant difference of RFSr was found at 18 months (p = 0.04). No statistical differences were observed between the two groups in terms of safeness (p > 0.05). The subgroup analysis indicated that the combination of RFA and anti-PD-1 led to better RFS than RFA alone. Moreover, patients benefited more from combination therapy in the groups younger than 60 years (HR: 0.26, p = 0.018), male (HR: 0.32, p = 0.028) and Child-Pugh grade A (HR: 0.38, p = 0.032). CONCLUSIONS Combining RFA with anti-PD-1 showed improved RFS and was deemed safe for patients with recurrent HCC who had previously undergone RFA treatment alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyu Wen
- Department of Public HealthJilin UniversityJilinChina
| | - Junxiao Wang
- Aerospace Medical CenterAerospace Center HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Bo Tu
- Department of Infectious DiseasesFifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Yane Liu
- Department of Public HealthJilin UniversityJilinChina
| | - Yuqing Yang
- Department of Public HealthJilin UniversityJilinChina
| | - Li Hou
- Department of OncologyFifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Xiang Yang
- Department of OncologyFifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Xiaoyan Liu
- Department of HepatologyFifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Hui Xie
- Department of OncologyFifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
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11
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Claasen MPAW, Sneiders D, Rakké YS, Adam R, Bhoori S, Cillo U, Fondevila C, Reig M, Sapisochin G, Tabrizian P, Toso C. European Society of Organ Transplantation (ESOT) Consensus Report on Downstaging, Bridging and Immunotherapy in Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Transpl Int 2023; 36:11648. [PMID: 37779513 PMCID: PMC10533675 DOI: 10.3389/ti.2023.11648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Liver transplantation offers the best chance of cure for most patients with non-metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Although not all patients with HCC are eligible for liver transplantation at diagnosis, some can be downstaged using locoregional treatments such as ablation and transarterial chemoembolization. These aforementioned treatments are being applied as bridging therapies to keep patients within transplant criteria and to avoid them from dropping out of the waiting list while awaiting a liver transplant. Moreover, immunotherapy might have great potential to support downstaging and bridging therapies. To address the contemporary status of downstaging, bridging, and immunotherapy in liver transplantation for HCC, European Society of Organ Transplantation (ESOT) convened a dedicated working group comprised of experts in the treatment of HCC to review literature and to develop guidelines pertaining to this cause that were subsequently discussed and voted during the Transplant Learning Journey (TLJ) 3.0 Consensus Conference that took place in person in Prague. The findings and recommendations of the working group on Downstaging, Bridging and Immunotherapy in Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma are presented in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Petrus Adrianus Wilhelmus Claasen
- Department of Surgery, Division of HPB & Transplant Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Multi-Organ Transplant Program, University Health Network (UHN), Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Dimitri Sneiders
- Department of Surgery, Division of HPB & Transplant Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Yannick Sebastiaan Rakké
- Department of Surgery, Division of HPB & Transplant Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - René Adam
- Centre Hépato-Biliaire, APHP Hôpital Universitaire Paul Brousse, Université Paris-Saclay, Paris, France
| | - Sherrie Bhoori
- Hepatology, Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Umberto Cillo
- Chirurgia Generale 2, Epato-Bilio-Pancreatica e Centro Trapianto di Fegato, Azienda Ospedale Università Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Maria Reig
- BCLC Group, Liver Unit, Digestive Disease Institute, Hospital Clínic, IDIBAPS CIBEREHD, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gonzalo Sapisochin
- Multi-Organ Transplant Program, University Health Network (UHN), Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Parissa Tabrizian
- Liver Transplant and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Christian Toso
- Division of Abdominal Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Yoon JH, Choi SK. Management of early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma: challenges and strategies for optimal outcomes. JOURNAL OF LIVER CANCER 2023; 23:300-315. [PMID: 37734717 PMCID: PMC10565545 DOI: 10.17998/jlc.2023.08.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Although hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is associated with a poor prognosis, management of early-stage HCC is often successful with highly efficacious treatment modalities such as liver transplantation, surgical resection, and radiofrequency ablation. However, unfavorable clinical outcomes have been observed under certain circumstances, even after efficient treatment. Factors that predict unsuitable results after treatment include tumor markers, inflammatory markers, imaging findings reflecting tumor biology, specific outcome indicators for each treatment modality, liver functional reserve, and the technical feasibility of the treatment modalities. Various strategies may overcome these challenges, including the application of reinforced treatment indication criteria with predictive markers reflecting tumor biology, compensation for technical issues with up-to-date technologies, modification of treatment modalities, downstaging with locoregional therapies (such as transarterial chemotherapy or radiotherapy), and recently introduced combination immunotherapies. In this review, we discuss the challenges to achieving optimal outcomes in the management of early-stage HCC and suggest strategies to overcome these obstacles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Hyun Yoon
- Department of Gastroenterology and hepatology, Chonnam National University Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Sung Kyu Choi
- Department of Gastroenterology and hepatology, Chonnam National University Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
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Khan F, Jones K, Lyon P. Immune checkpoint inhibition: a future guided by radiology. Br J Radiol 2023; 96:20220565. [PMID: 36752570 PMCID: PMC10321249 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20220565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The limitation of the function of antitumour immune cells is a common hallmark of cancers that enables their survival. As such, the potential of immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) acts as a paradigm shift in the treatment of a range of cancers but has not yet been fully capitalised. Combining minimally and non-invasive locoregional therapies offered by radiologists with ICI is now an active field of research with the aim of furthering therapeutic capabilities in medical oncology. In parallel to this impending advancement, the "imaging toolbox" available to radiologists is also growing, enabling more refined tumour characterisation as well as greater accuracy in evaluating responses to therapy. Options range from metabolite labelling to cellular localisation to immune checkpoint screening. It is foreseeable that these novel imaging techniques will be integrated into personalised treatment algorithms. This growth in the field must include updating the current standardised imaging criteria to ensure they are fit for purpose. Such criteria is crucial to both appropriately guide clinical decision-making regarding next steps of treatment, but also provide reliable prognosis. Quantitative approaches to these novel imaging techniques are also already being investigated to further optimise personalised therapeutic decision-making. The therapeutic potential of specific ICIs and locoregional therapies could be determined before administration thus limiting unnecessary side-effects whilst maintaining efficacy. Several radiological aspects of oncological care are advancing simultaneously. Therefore, it is essential that each development is assessed for clinical use and optimised to ensure the best treatment decisions are being offered to the patient. In this review, we discuss state of the art advances in novel functional imaging techniques in the field of immuno-oncology both pre-clinically and clinically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faraaz Khan
- Foundation Doctor, Buckinghamshire Hospitals NHS Trust, Amersham, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom
| | - Keaton Jones
- Academic Clinical Lecturer Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences University of Oxford, Wellington Square, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Lyon
- Consultant Radiologist, Department of Radiology, Oxford University Hospitals, Headington, Oxford, United Kingdom
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14
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Sidali S, Sritharan N, Campani C, Gregory J, Durand F, Ganne-Carrié N, Ronot M, Lévy V, Nault JC. Fragility index of positive phase II and III randomised clinical trials of treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma (2002-2022). JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100755. [PMID: 37425214 PMCID: PMC10326696 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims The fragility index (FI), i.e., theminimum number of best survivors reassigned to the control group required to revert the statistically significant result of a clinical trial to non-significant, is a metric to evaluate the robustness of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We aimed to assess the FI in the field of HCC. Methods This is a retrospective analysis of phase 2 and 3 RCTs for the treatment of HCC published between 2002 and 2022. We included two-arm studies with 1:1 randomization and significant positive results for a primary time-to-event endpoint for the FI calculation, which involves the iterative addition of a best survivor from the experimental group to the control group, until positive significance (p <0,05, Log-rank test) is lost. Results We identified 51 phase 2 and 3 positive RCTs, of which 29 (57%) were eligible for fragility index calculation. After reconstruction of the Kaplan-Meier curves, 25/29 studies remained significant, among which the analysis was performed. The median (interquartile range (IQR)) FI was 5 (2-10) and Fragility Quotient (FQ) was 3% (1%-6%). Ten trials (40%) had a FI of 2 or less. FI was positively correlated to the blind assessment of the primary endpoint (median FI 9 with blind assessment versus 2 without, p = 0.01), the number of reported events in the control arm (RS = 0.45, p = 0.02) and to impact factor (RS = 0.58, p = 0.003). Conclusions Several phases 2 and 3 RCTs in HCC have a low fragility index, underlying the limited robustness on the conclusion of their superiority over control treatments. The fragility index might provide an additional tool to assess the robustness of clinical trial data in HCC. Impact and implications The fragility index is a method to assess robustness of a clinical trial and is defined the minimum number of best survivors reassigned to the control group required to revert the statistically significant result of a clinical trial to non-significant. Among 25 randomised controlled trials in HCC, the median fragility index was 5, and 10 trials among 25 (40%) had a fragility index of 2 or less, indicating an important fragility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Sidali
- Université de Paris, Service d’Hépatologie, DMU DIGEST, Hôpital Beaujon, APHP Nord, Clichy, France
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, Université de Paris, Team ‘Functional Genomics of Solid Tumors’, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, Labex OncoImmunology, Paris, France
| | - Nanthara Sritharan
- Department of Clinical Research, Paris Seine Saint Denis Hospital, Sorbonne Paris University, APHP, Bobigny, France
| | - Claudia Campani
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, Université de Paris, Team ‘Functional Genomics of Solid Tumors’, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, Labex OncoImmunology, Paris, France
| | - Jules Gregory
- Department of Radiology, FHU MOSAIC, Hôpital Beaujon APHP Nord, Clichy, France
- Université de Paris, INSERM, UMR1153, Epidemiology and Biostatistics Sorbonne Paris Cité Center (CRESS), METHODS Team, Paris, France
| | - François Durand
- Université de Paris, Service d’Hépatologie, DMU DIGEST, Hôpital Beaujon, APHP Nord, Clichy, France
| | - Nathalie Ganne-Carrié
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, Université de Paris, Team ‘Functional Genomics of Solid Tumors’, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, Labex OncoImmunology, Paris, France
- Liver Unit, Hôpital Avicenne, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Seine-Saint-Denis, Assistance-Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Bobigny, France
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche Santé Médecine et Biologie Humaine, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Bobigny, France
| | - Maxime Ronot
- Department of Radiology, FHU MOSAIC, Hôpital Beaujon APHP Nord, Clichy, France
- Université de Paris, INSERM U1149 ‘Centre de Recherche sur L'inflammation’, CRI, Paris, France
| | - Vincent Lévy
- Department of Clinical Research, Paris Seine Saint Denis Hospital, Sorbonne Paris University, APHP, Bobigny, France
- ECSTRRA Team, CRESS UMR 1153, Hôpital Saint-Louis, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Charles Nault
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, Université de Paris, Team ‘Functional Genomics of Solid Tumors’, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, Labex OncoImmunology, Paris, France
- Liver Unit, Hôpital Avicenne, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Seine-Saint-Denis, Assistance-Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Bobigny, France
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche Santé Médecine et Biologie Humaine, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Bobigny, France
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Wang Y, Wang GZ, Chen C, Huang HZ, Wang YH, He XH, Xu LX, Xu LC, Li WT. Exploration of the impact of multimode thermal therapy versus radiofrequency ablation on CD8 + T effector cells of liver malignancies based on single cell transcriptomics. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1172362. [PMID: 37334386 PMCID: PMC10272448 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1172362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Multimode thermal therapy (MTT) is an innovative interventional therapy developed for the treatment of liver malignancies. When compared to the conventional radiofrequency ablation (RFA), MTT typically offers improved prognosis for patients. However, the effect of MTT on the peripheral immune environment and the mechanisms underlying the enhanced prognosis have yet to be explored. The aim of this study was to further investigate the mechanisms responsible for the difference in prognosis between the two therapies. Methods In this study, peripheral blood samples were collected from four patients treated with MTT and two patients treated with RFA for liver malignancies at different time points before and after the treatment. Single cell sequencing was performed on the blood samples to compare and analyze the activation pathways of peripheral immune cells following the MTT and RFA treatment. Results There was no significant effect of either therapy on the composition of immune cells in peripheral blood. However, the differential gene expression and pathway enrichment analysis demonstrated enhanced activation of T cells in the MTT group compared to the RFA group. In particular, there was a remarkable increase in TNF-α signaling via NF-κB, as well as the expression of IFN-α and IFN-γ in the CD8+ effector T (CD8+ Teff) cells subpopulation, when compared to the RFA group. This may be related to the upregulation of PI3KR1 expression after MTT, which promotes the activation of PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway. Conclusion This study confirmed that MTT could more effectively activate peripheral CD8+ Teff cells in patients compared with RFA and promote the effector function, thus resulting in a better prognosis. These results provide a theoretical basis for the clinical application of MTT therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Guang-Zhi Wang
- Med-X Research Institute, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Medical Imaging Center, Affiliated Hospital, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Chao Chen
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao-Zhe Huang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yao-Hui Wang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin-Hong He
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Lisa X. Xu
- Med-X Research Institute, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li-Chao Xu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Tao Li
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
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Sajan A, Fordyce S, Sideris A, Liou C, Toor Z, Filtes J, Krishnasamy V, Ahmad N, Reis S, Brejt S, Baig A, Khan S, Caplan M, Sperling D, Weintraub J. Minimally Invasive Treatment Options for Hepatic Uveal Melanoma Metastases. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13111836. [PMID: 37296688 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13111836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Uveal melanoma is one of the most common primary intraocular malignancies that accounts for about 85% of all ocular melanomas. The pathophysiology of uveal melanoma is distinct from cutaneous melanoma and has separate tumor profiles. The management of uveal melanoma is largely dependent on the presence of metastases, which confers a poor prognosis with a one-year survival reaching only 15%. Although a better understanding of tumor biology has led to the development of novel pharmacologic agents, there is increasing demand for minimally invasive management of hepatic uveal melanoma metastases. Multiple studies have already summarized the systemic therapeutic options available for metastatic uveal melanoma. This review covers the current research for the most prevalent locoregional treatment options for metastatic uveal melanoma including percutaneous hepatic perfusion, immunoembolization, chemoembolization, thermal ablation, and radioembolization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abin Sajan
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Samuel Fordyce
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Andrew Sideris
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Connie Liou
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Zeeshan Toor
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - John Filtes
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Venkatesh Krishnasamy
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Noor Ahmad
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Stephen Reis
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Sidney Brejt
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Asad Baig
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Shaheer Khan
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, 161 Fort Washington Avenue, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Michael Caplan
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, 161 Fort Washington Avenue, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - David Sperling
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Joshua Weintraub
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
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17
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Seidensticker M, Öcal O, Schütte K, Malfertheiner P, Berg T, Loewe C, Klümpen HJ, van Delden O, Ümütlü MR, Ben Khaled N, de Toni EN, Seidensticker R, Aghdassi A, Tran A, Bronowicki JP, Peynircioglu B, Sangro B, Pech M, Ricke J. Impact of adjuvant sorafenib treatment after local ablation for HCC in the phase II SORAMIC trial. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100699. [PMID: 36968218 PMCID: PMC10031000 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of adjuvant sorafenib treatment compared with placebo in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma who underwent local ablation. Methods The SORAMIC trial is a randomised controlled trial with diagnostic, local ablation, and palliative sub-study arms. After initial imaging within the diagnostic study, patients were assigned to local ablation or palliative arms. In the local ablation cohort, patients were randomised 1:1 to local ablation + sorafenib vs. local ablation + placebo. The primary endpoint was time-to-recurrence (TTR). Secondary endpoints were local control rate and safety in terms of adverse events and quality-of-life. Results The recruitment was terminated prematurely after 104 patients owing to slow recruitment. One patient was excluded because of a technical failure. Fifty-four patients were randomised to local ablation + sorafenib and 49 to local ablation + placebo. Eighty-eight patients who underwent standardised follow-up imaging comprised the per-protocol population. The median TTR was 15.2 months in the sorafenib arm and 16.4 months in the placebo arm (hazard ratio 1.1; 95% CI 0.53-2.2; p = 0.82). Out of 136 lesions ablated within the trial, there was no difference in local recurrence rate between sorafenib (6/69, 8.6%) and placebo groups (5/67, 5.9%; p = 0.792).Overall (92.5% vs. 71.4%, p = 0.008) and drug-related (81.4% vs. 55.1%, p = 0.003) adverse events were more common in the sorafenib arm compared with the placebo arm. Dose reduction because of adverse events were common in the sorafenib arm (79.6% vs. 30.6%, p <0.001). Conclusions Adjuvant sorafenib did not improve in TTR or local control rate after local ablation in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma within the limitations of an early terminated trial. Impact and implications Local ablation is the standard of care treatment in patients with early stages of hepatocellular carcinoma, along with surgical therapies. However, there is a risk of disease recurrence during follow-up. Sorafenib, an oral medication, is a routinely used treatment for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. This study found that sorafenib treatment after local ablation in people with early hepatocellular carcinoma did not significantly improve the disease-free period compared with placebo. Clinical trial number EudraCT 2009-012576-27, NCT01126645.
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Key Words
- Adjuvant
- BCLC, Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer
- CONSORT, Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials
- CT, computed tomography
- ECOG PS, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- HR, hazard ratio
- Hepatocellular carcinoma
- ITT, intention-to-treat
- Local ablation
- MRI, magnetic resonance imaging
- MWA, microwave ablation
- PP, per protocol
- RFA, radiofrequency ablation
- RFS, relapse-free survival
- SIRT, selective internal radiation therapy
- SORAMIC, SORAfenib in combination with local MICro-therapy guided by gadolinium-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI
- Sorafenib
- TTR, time-to-recurrence
- Time-to-recurrence
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Seidensticker
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Osman Öcal
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Kerstin Schütte
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Niels-Stensen-Kliniken Marienhospital, Osnabrück, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Berg
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Gastroenterologie, Sektion Hepatologie, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Germany
| | - Christian Loewe
- Section of Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Bioimaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Heinz Josef Klümpen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Otto van Delden
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Academic University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Najib Ben Khaled
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | | | - Ali Aghdassi
- Department of Medicine A, University Medicine Greifswald, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Albert Tran
- Pôle Appareil Digestif, Hôpital l'Archet 2, CHU Nice, Route Saint-Antoine de Ginestière - BP 3079, Nice, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Bronowicki
- Department of Hepatology, INSERM U1254, Hôpital de Brabois, CHU de Nancy, University of Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Bora Peynircioglu
- Department of Radiology, Hacettepe University Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Bruno Sangro
- Liver Unit, Clínica Universidad de Navarra and CIBEREHD, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maciej Pech
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Jens Ricke
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- Corresponding author. Address: Department of Radiology, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377 Munich, Germany. Tel: +49-4400-72750..
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Koza A, Bhogal RH, Fotiadis N, Mavroeidis VK. The Role of Ablative Techniques in the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Indications and Outcomes. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041062. [PMID: 37189680 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains complex and will continue to rely on the multidisciplinary input of hepatologists, surgeons, radiologists, oncologists and radiotherapists. With the appropriate staging of patients and selection of suitable treatments, the outcomes for HCC are improving. Surgical treatments encompassing both liver resection and orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) are the definitive curative-intent options. However, patient suitability, as well as organ availability, pose essential limitations. Consequently, non-surgical options, such as ablative techniques, play an increasingly important role, especially in small HCCs, where overall and disease-free survival can be comparable to surgical resection. Ablative techniques are globally recommended in recognised classification systems, showing increasingly promising results. Recent technical refinements, as well as the emerging use of robotic assistance, may expand the treatment paradigm to achieve improved oncological results. At present, in very early stage and early stage unresectable disease, percutaneous thermal ablation is considered the treatment of choice. Owing to their different features, various ablative techniques, including radiofrequency ablation, microwave ablation, cryotherapy ablation and irreversible electroporation, have been shown to confer different comparative advantages and applicability. We herein review the role of available ablative techniques in the current complex multidisciplinary management of HCC, with a main focus on the indications and outcomes, and discuss future perspectives.
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Ippolito D, Maino C, Gatti M, Marra P, Faletti R, Cortese F, Inchingolo R, Sironi S. Radiological findings in non-surgical recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma: From locoregional treatments to immunotherapy. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:1669-1684. [PMID: 37077517 PMCID: PMC10107213 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i11.1669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Since hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents an important cause of mortality and morbidity all over the world. Currently, it is fundamental not only to achieve a curative treatment but also to manage in the best way any possible recurrence. Even if the latest update of the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer guidelines for HCC treatment has introduced new locoregional techniques and confirmed others as well-established clinical practices, there is still no consensus about the treatment of recurrent HCC (RHCC). Locoregional treatments and medical therapy represent two of the most widely accepted approaches for disease control, especially in the advanced stage of liver disease. Different medical treatments are now approved, and others are under investigation. On this basis, radiology plays a central role in the diagnosis of RHCC and the assessment of response to locoregional treatments and medical therapy for RHCC. This review summarized the actual clinical practice by underlining the importance of the radiological approach both in the diagnosis and treatment of RHCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Ippolito
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza 20900, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milano 20121, Italy
| | - Cesare Maino
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza 20900, Italy
| | - Marco Gatti
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin 10126, Italy
| | - Paolo Marra
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo 24127, Italy
| | - Riccardo Faletti
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin 10126, Italy
| | - Francesco Cortese
- Interventional Radiology Unit, “F. Miulli” Regional General Hospital, Bari 70121, Italy
| | - Riccardo Inchingolo
- Interventional Radiology Unit, “F. Miulli” Regional General Hospital, Bari 70121, Italy
| | - Sandro Sironi
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milano 20121, Italy
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo 24127, Italy
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Non-Surgical Locoregional Therapies Alone or in Combination with Systemic Therapy in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15061748. [PMID: 36980634 PMCID: PMC10046599 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15061748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer, representing the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Curative intent treatment options for patients with HCC include liver transplantation, resection and ablation of small lesions. Other potentially curative therapies include cryoablation, microwave ablation and percutaneous alcohol injection. For locally advanced disease, different arterially directed therapies including transarterial chemoembolization and selective internal radiation therapy, plus external beam radiation including three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy, stereotactic body radiation therapy and proton beam therapy, are available or studied. Systemic therapies based on checkpoint inhibitors and tyrosine kinase inhibitors are available for the management of metastatic HCC and sometimes for locally advanced disease. Combinations of locoregional therapies with systemic drugs are currently the subject of several clinical trials.
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21
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2022 KLCA-NCC Korea practice guidelines for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma. JOURNAL OF LIVER CANCER 2023; 23:1-120. [PMID: 37384024 PMCID: PMC10202234 DOI: 10.17998/jlc.2022.11.07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the fourth most common cancer among men in South Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle and old age. The current practice guidelines will provide useful and sensible advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 49 experts in the fields of hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology, and radiation oncology from the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2018 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions. These guidelines provide useful information and direction for all clinicians, trainees, and researchers in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Korean Liver Cancer Association (KLCA) and National Cancer Center (NCC) Korea
- Corresponding author: KLCA-NCC Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee (KPGRC) (Committee Chair: Joong-Won Park) Center for Liver and Pancreatobiliary Cancer, Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cancer Center, 323 Ilsan-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang 10408, Korea Tel. +82-31-920-1605, Fax: +82-31-920-1520, E-mail:
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22
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Dolganova IN, Zotov AK, Safonova LP, Aleksandrova PV, Reshetov IV, Zaytsev KI, Tuchin VV, Kurlov VN. Feasibility test of a sapphire cryoprobe with optical monitoring of tissue freezing. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2023; 16:e202200288. [PMID: 36510652 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.202200288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This article describes a sapphire cryoprobe as a promising solution to the significant problem of modern cryosurgery that is the monitoring of tissue freezing. This probe consists of a sapphire rod manufactured by the edge-defined film-fed growth technique from Al2 O3 melt and optical fibers accommodated inside the rod and connected to the source and the detector. The probe's design enables detection of spatially resolved diffuse reflected intensities of tissue optical response, which are used for the estimation of tissue freezing depth. The current type of the 12.5-mm diameter sapphire probe cooled down by the liquid nitrogen assumes a superficial cryoablation. The experimental test made by using a gelatin-intralipid tissue phantom shows the feasibility of such concept, revealing the capabilities of monitoring the freezing depth up to 10 mm by the particular instrumentation realization of the probe. This justifies a potential of sapphire-based instruments aided by optical diagnosis in modern cryosurgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina N Dolganova
- Osipyan Institute of Solid State Physics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Chernogolovka, Russia
| | - Arsen K Zotov
- Osipyan Institute of Solid State Physics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Chernogolovka, Russia
| | | | - Polina V Aleksandrova
- Prokhorov General Physics Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Igor V Reshetov
- Institute for Cluster Oncology, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Kirill I Zaytsev
- Prokhorov General Physics Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Valery V Tuchin
- Science Medical Center, Saratov State University, Saratov, Russia
- Institute of Precision Mechanics and Control, FRC "Saratov Scientific Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences", Saratov, Russia
- Tomsk State University, Tomsk, Russia
| | - Vladimir N Kurlov
- Osipyan Institute of Solid State Physics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Chernogolovka, Russia
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23
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How Biology Guides the Combination of Locoregional Interventional Therapies and Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Cytokines and Their Roles. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15041324. [PMID: 36831664 PMCID: PMC9954096 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15041324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
As most patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are diagnosed at the intermediate or advanced stage and are no longer eligible for curative treatment, the overall survival rate of HCC remains unsatisfactory. Locoregional interventional therapies (LITs), and immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-based immunotherapy, focus on treating HCC, but the efficacy of their individual application is limited. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to discuss the biological roles of cytokines and their therapeutic potential in the combination therapy of LITs and ICI-based immunotherapy. The two common techniques of LITs are ablative and transarterial therapies. Whether LITs are complete or incomplete can largely affect the antitumor immune response and tumor progression. Cytokines that induce both local and systemic responses to LITs, including interferons, interleukins, chemokines, TNF-α, TGF-β, VEGF, and HGF, and their roles are discussed in detail. In addition, specific cytokines that can be used as therapeutic targets to reduce immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are introduced. Overall, incomplete LITs in a tumor, combined with specific cytokines, are thought to be effective at improving the therapeutic efficacy and reducing treatment-induced irAEs, and represent a new hope for managing unresectable HCC.
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24
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Liu J, Shen H, Huang S, Lin J, Yan Z, Qian G, Lu Z, Wan X, Zhang F, Wang K, Zhang Y, Li J. Antiviral therapy inhibited HBV-reactivation and improved long-term outcomes in patients who underwent radiofrequency ablation for HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Surg Oncol 2023; 21:42. [PMID: 36765340 PMCID: PMC9921597 DOI: 10.1186/s12957-023-02921-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation impact negatively the prognosis of patients with HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aimed to observe the effect of antiviral therapy (AVT) on viral reactivation and long-term outcomes after percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (PRFA) for HBV-related HCC. METHODS Data on 538 patients between 2009 and 2013 were reviewed. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was used to adjust for differences in baseline features between patients who received AVT (AVT group) and did not receive it (non-AVT group). Logistic regression was used to identify the independent factors for viral reactivation. The tumor recurrence and overall survival (OS) rates were analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Recurrence patterns were also investigated. RESULTS HBV reactivation developed in 10.8% (58/538) of patients after PRFA. AVT was associated independently with decreased viral reactivation (odd ratio: 0.061, 95% confidence interval: 0.018-0.200). In 215 pairs of patients obtained after PSM, the AVT group had lower 1-, 3-, and 5-year recurrence rates (24%, 55%, and 67% vs 33%, 75%, and 85%, respectively) and higher 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS rates (100%, 67%, and 59% vs 100%, 52%, and 42%, respectively) than non-AVT group (P < 0.001 for both). Additionally, the relapses in distant hepatic segments and the late recurrence after 2 years of PRFA were significantly reduced in the AVT group (78/215 vs 111/215 vs., P = 0.001; 39/109 vs. 61/91, P = 0.012, respectively). CONCLUSIONS AVT reduced late and distal intrahepatic recurrence and improved OS in patients undergoing PRFA for HBV-related HCC by inhibiting viral reactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Liu
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, The Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China ,Department of Biliary Surgery, The Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Shen
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, The Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shengyu Huang
- grid.412538.90000 0004 0527 0050Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Tenth People’s Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianbo Lin
- grid.412538.90000 0004 0527 0050Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Tenth People’s Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenlin Yan
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, The Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guojun Qian
- Department of Minimally Intervention Therapy, The Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenghua Lu
- Department of Minimally Intervention Therapy, The Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuying Wan
- Department of Clinical Database, The Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fabiao Zhang
- grid.268099.c0000 0001 0348 3990Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Kui Wang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, The Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongjie Zhang
- Department of Biliary Surgery, The Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Tenth People's Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
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25
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Abstract
This is a review of current practices and upcoming developments regarding hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This includes a contemporary review of the diagnosis, staging, and treatment of HCC. Furthermore, the authors provide a review of certain ongoing trials and future directions of various treatment modalities for HCC.
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26
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Cong R, Ma XH, Wang S, Feng B, Cai W, Chen ZW, Zhao XM. Application of ablative therapy for intrahepatic recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma following hepatectomy. World J Gastrointest Surg 2023; 15:9-18. [PMID: 36741068 PMCID: PMC9896493 DOI: 10.4240/wjgs.v15.i1.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The post-hepatectomy recurrence rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is persistently high, affecting the prognosis of patients. An effective therapeutic option is crucial for achieving long-term survival in patients with postoperative recurrences. Local ablative therapy has been established as a treatment option for resectable and unresectable HCCs, and it is also a feasible approach for recurrent HCC (RHCC) due to less trauma, shorter operation times, fewer complications, and faster recovery. This review focused on ablation techniques, description of potential candidates, and therapeutic and prognostic implications of ablation for guiding its application in treating intrahepatic RHCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Cong
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Xiao-Hong Ma
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Shuang Wang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Bing Feng
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Wei Cai
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Zhao-Wei Chen
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Xin-Ming Zhao
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
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27
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Alhammami QS, Alanazi SNA, Alanazi SMH, Mohammed ARE, Alanazi STA, Alruwaily ZA. Role of Interventional Radiology in Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Systematic Review. ARCHIVES OF PHARMACY PRACTICE 2023. [DOI: 10.51847/pqbkgazkei] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
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28
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Lee MW, Lee JM, Koh YH, Chung JW. 2022 Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guidelines for Local Ablation Therapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: What's New? Korean J Radiol 2023; 24:10-14. [PMID: 36606614 PMCID: PMC9830141 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2022.0555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Min Woo Lee
- Department of Radiology and Center for Imaging Science, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Health Sciences and Technology, SAIHST, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Jeong Min Lee
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Institute of Radiation Medicine, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Hwan Koh
- Center for Liver and Pancreatobiliary Cancer and Department of Radiology, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Jin Wook Chung
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Institute of Radiation Medicine, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul, Korea
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29
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2022 KLCA-NCC Korea Practice Guidelines for the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Korean J Radiol 2022; 23:1126-1240. [PMID: 36447411 PMCID: PMC9747269 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2022.0822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the fourth most common cancer among men in South Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle and old age. The current practice guidelines will provide useful and sensible advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 49 experts in the fields of hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology, and radiation oncology from the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2018 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions. These guidelines provide useful information and direction for all clinicians, trainees, and researchers in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.
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30
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Chen S, Zeng X, Su T, Xiao H, Lin M, Peng Z, Peng S, Kuang M. Combinatory local ablation and immunotherapies for hepatocellular carcinoma: Rationale, efficacy, and perspective. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1033000. [PMID: 36505437 PMCID: PMC9726793 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1033000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Local ablation, such as radiofrequency ablation, microwave ablation, cryoablation and irreversible electroporation, etc., are well established in elimination and control of HCC. However, high recurrence rate after local ablation remains the biggest challenge for HCC management. Novel and effective therapeutic strategies to improve long-term survival are urgently needed. Accumulating studies have reported the role of ablation in modulating the tumor signaling pathway and the immune microenvironment to both eliminate residual/metastatic tumor and promote tumor progression. Ablation has been shown to elicit tumor-specific immune responses by inducing massive cell death and releasing tumor antigen. Immunotherapies that unleash the immune system have the potential to enhance the anti-tumor immunity induced by ablation. Multiple combinatory strategies have been explored in preclinical and clinical studies. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the latest progress on different mechanisms underlying the effects of ablation on tumor cells and tumor microenvironment. We further analyze the clinical trials testing the combination of ablation and immunotherapies, and discuss the possible role of immunomodulation to boost the anti-tumor effects of ablation and prevent HCC recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuling Chen
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xuezhen Zeng
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China,Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Tianhong Su
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Han Xiao
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Manxia Lin
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhenwei Peng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Sui Peng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ming Kuang
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China,Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China,*Correspondence: Ming Kuang,
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31
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Graif A, Ryan WJ, El Khudari HM, Schmit GD, Gunn AJ. Safety and Effectiveness of Transhepatic Access for Percutaneous Renal Mass Cryoablation: A Multicenter Cohort. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2022; 33:1384-1389. [PMID: 35970503 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvir.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To establish transhepatic percutaneous cryoablation of renal masses as a safe and effective approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective review of records from 3 separate medical centers was performed identifying 23 patients (median age, 63 years [range 41-84 years]; 12 female [52.2%]) who underwent percutaneous transhepatic cryoablation for right-sided renal masses (median diameter, 2.4 cm [1.5-4.6 cm]) between 2008 and 2021. The median radius, exophytic/endophytic, nearness to collecting system or sinus, anterior/posterior, and location relative to polar lines (RENAL) nephrometry score was 5 (4-10). Adverse events (AEs) were classified according to the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) and Clavien-Dindo (CD) classifications. Primary and secondary technical success of each procedure were recorded. RESULTS Renal cell carcinoma (of any subtype) was found in 10 (71.5%) of the 14 masses that were biopsied. Tract cautery was used for transhepatic probes in 14 (63.6%) of 22 procedures. Three (13%) of 23 patients had postprocedural AEs. Two cases (8.6%) were hemorrhages related to transhepatic access (SIR moderate-2, CD 2; SIR severe-3, CD 1), and 1 case (4.4%) was related to bowel injury (SIR severe-3, CD 3a). There were no instances of pneumothorax. Tract cautery was used in the procedures that resulted in an AE. Primary technical success was achieved in 84.2% (16/19) of procedures, whereas secondary technical success was achieved in 2 additional patients. The secondary technical success rate was 94.7% (18/19). Four patients did not have imaging follow-up. CONCLUSIONS The transhepatic approach to cryoablation of renal masses appears to have an acceptable safety profile and technical success rate. Larger studies, preferably comparative to nontranshepatic approach, are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assaf Graif
- Department of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, ChristianaCare, Newark, Delaware.
| | - William J Ryan
- Department of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, ChristianaCare, Newark, Delaware
| | - Husameddin M El Khudari
- Division of Interventional Radiology, University of Alabama Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Grant D Schmit
- Division of Abdominal Imaging, Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Andrew J Gunn
- Division of Interventional Radiology, University of Alabama Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
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32
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2022 KLCA-NCC Korea practice guidelines for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma. Clin Mol Hepatol 2022; 28:583-705. [PMID: 36263666 PMCID: PMC9597235 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2022.0294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the fourth most common cancer among men in South Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle and old age. The current practice guidelines will provide useful and sensible advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 49 experts in the fields of hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology, and radiation oncology from the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2018 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions. These guidelines provide useful information and direction for all clinicians, trainees, and researchers in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.
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33
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Horvat N, de Oliveira AI, Clemente de Oliveira B, Araujo-Filho JAB, El Homsi M, Elsakka A, Bajwa R, Martins GLP, Elsayes KM, Menezes MR. Local-Regional Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Primer for Radiologists. Radiographics 2022; 42:1670-1689. [PMID: 36190854 PMCID: PMC9539394 DOI: 10.1148/rg.220022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The treatment planning for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) relies predominantly on tumor burden, clinical performance, and liver function test results. Curative treatments such as resection, liver transplantation, and ablative therapies of small lesions should be considered for all patients with HCC. However, many patients are ineligible for these treatments owing to advanced disease stage and comorbidities. Despite efforts to increase screening, early-stage HCC remains difficult to diagnose, which decreases the possibility of curative therapies. In this context, local-regional treatment of HCC is accepted as a form of curative therapy in selected patients with early-stage disease, as a therapeutic option in patients who are not eligible to undergo curative therapies, as a downstaging approach to decrease tumor size toward meeting the criteria for liver transplantation, and as a bridging therapy to avoid tumor growth while the patient is on the waiting list for liver transplantation. The authors review the indications, types, mechanism of action, and possible complications of local-regional treatment, as well as the expected postprocedural imaging features of HCC. Furthermore, they discuss the role of imaging in pre- and postprocedural settings, provide guidance on how to assess treatment response, and review the current limitations of imaging assessment. Finally, the authors summarize the potential future directions with imaging tools that may add value to contemporary practice at response assessment and imaging biomarkers for patient selection, treatment response, and prognosis. ©RSNA, 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Brunna Clemente de Oliveira
- From the Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer
Center, 1275 York Ave, Box 29, New York, NY 10065 (N.H., M.E.H., A.E., R.B.);
Department of Radiology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo,
Brazil (A.I.d.O., B.C.d.O., J.A.B.A.F., G.L.P.M., M.R.M.); Department of
Radiology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil (A.I.d.O.,
G.L.P.M., M.R.M.); and Department of Abdominal Imaging, Division of Diagnostic
Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex
(K.M.E.)
| | - Jose A. B. Araujo-Filho
- From the Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer
Center, 1275 York Ave, Box 29, New York, NY 10065 (N.H., M.E.H., A.E., R.B.);
Department of Radiology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo,
Brazil (A.I.d.O., B.C.d.O., J.A.B.A.F., G.L.P.M., M.R.M.); Department of
Radiology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil (A.I.d.O.,
G.L.P.M., M.R.M.); and Department of Abdominal Imaging, Division of Diagnostic
Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex
(K.M.E.)
| | - Maria El Homsi
- From the Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer
Center, 1275 York Ave, Box 29, New York, NY 10065 (N.H., M.E.H., A.E., R.B.);
Department of Radiology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo,
Brazil (A.I.d.O., B.C.d.O., J.A.B.A.F., G.L.P.M., M.R.M.); Department of
Radiology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil (A.I.d.O.,
G.L.P.M., M.R.M.); and Department of Abdominal Imaging, Division of Diagnostic
Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex
(K.M.E.)
| | - Ahmed Elsakka
- From the Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer
Center, 1275 York Ave, Box 29, New York, NY 10065 (N.H., M.E.H., A.E., R.B.);
Department of Radiology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo,
Brazil (A.I.d.O., B.C.d.O., J.A.B.A.F., G.L.P.M., M.R.M.); Department of
Radiology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil (A.I.d.O.,
G.L.P.M., M.R.M.); and Department of Abdominal Imaging, Division of Diagnostic
Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex
(K.M.E.)
| | - Raazi Bajwa
- From the Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer
Center, 1275 York Ave, Box 29, New York, NY 10065 (N.H., M.E.H., A.E., R.B.);
Department of Radiology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo,
Brazil (A.I.d.O., B.C.d.O., J.A.B.A.F., G.L.P.M., M.R.M.); Department of
Radiology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil (A.I.d.O.,
G.L.P.M., M.R.M.); and Department of Abdominal Imaging, Division of Diagnostic
Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex
(K.M.E.)
| | - Guilherme L. P. Martins
- From the Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer
Center, 1275 York Ave, Box 29, New York, NY 10065 (N.H., M.E.H., A.E., R.B.);
Department of Radiology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo,
Brazil (A.I.d.O., B.C.d.O., J.A.B.A.F., G.L.P.M., M.R.M.); Department of
Radiology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil (A.I.d.O.,
G.L.P.M., M.R.M.); and Department of Abdominal Imaging, Division of Diagnostic
Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex
(K.M.E.)
| | - Khaled M. Elsayes
- From the Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer
Center, 1275 York Ave, Box 29, New York, NY 10065 (N.H., M.E.H., A.E., R.B.);
Department of Radiology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo,
Brazil (A.I.d.O., B.C.d.O., J.A.B.A.F., G.L.P.M., M.R.M.); Department of
Radiology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil (A.I.d.O.,
G.L.P.M., M.R.M.); and Department of Abdominal Imaging, Division of Diagnostic
Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex
(K.M.E.)
| | - Marcos R. Menezes
- From the Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer
Center, 1275 York Ave, Box 29, New York, NY 10065 (N.H., M.E.H., A.E., R.B.);
Department of Radiology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo,
Brazil (A.I.d.O., B.C.d.O., J.A.B.A.F., G.L.P.M., M.R.M.); Department of
Radiology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil (A.I.d.O.,
G.L.P.M., M.R.M.); and Department of Abdominal Imaging, Division of Diagnostic
Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex
(K.M.E.)
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Gupta P, Kalra N, Chaluvashetty SB, Gamangatti S, Mukund A, Abdul R, Shyam VS, Baijal SS, Mohan C. Indian College of Radiology and Imaging Guidelines on Interventions in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Indian J Radiol Imaging 2022; 32:540-554. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1754361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractHepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies and a significant cause of cancer-related death. Treatment of HCC depends on the stage of the tumor. As many patients with HCC are not deemed fit for surgical resection or liver transplantation, locoregional therapies play an essential role in the management. Image-guided locoregional treatments include percutaneous ablative therapies and endovascular therapies. The choice of an individual or a combination of therapies is guided by the tumor and patient characteristics. As the outcomes of image-guided locoregional treatments depend on the ability to achieve necrosis of the entire tumor along with a safety margin around it, it is mandatory to follow standard guidelines. In this manuscript, we discuss in detail the various aspects of image-guided locoregional therapies to guide interventional radiologists involved in the care of patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Gupta
- Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Naveen Kalra
- Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sreedhara B. Chaluvashetty
- Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | | | - Amar Mukund
- Department of Interventional Radiology, ILBS, New Delhi, India
| | - Razik Abdul
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, AIIMS, New Delhi, India
| | - VS Shyam
- Department of Interventional Radiology, ILBS, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Chander Mohan
- Department of Interventional Radiology, BLK Superspeciality Hospital, New Delhi, India
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Chartampilas E, Rafailidis V, Georgopoulou V, Kalarakis G, Hatzidakis A, Prassopoulos P. Current Imaging Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14163997. [PMID: 36010991 PMCID: PMC9406360 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14163997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The role of imaging in the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has significantly evolved and expanded beyond the plain radiological confirmation of the tumor based on the typical appearance in a multiphase contrast-enhanced CT or MRI examination. The introduction of hepatobiliary contrast agents has enabled the diagnosis of hepatocarcinogenesis at earlier stages, while the application of ultrasound contrast agents has drastically upgraded the role of ultrasound in the diagnostic algorithms. Newer quantitative techniques assessing blood perfusion on CT and MRI not only allow earlier diagnosis and confident differentiation from other lesions, but they also provide biomarkers for the evaluation of treatment response. As distinct HCC subtypes are identified, their correlation with specific imaging features holds great promise for estimating tumor aggressiveness and prognosis. This review presents the current role of imaging and underlines its critical role in the successful management of patients with HCC. Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer related death worldwide. Radiology has traditionally played a central role in HCC management, ranging from screening of high-risk patients to non-invasive diagnosis, as well as the evaluation of treatment response and post-treatment follow-up. From liver ultrasonography with or without contrast to dynamic multiple phased CT and dynamic MRI with diffusion protocols, great progress has been achieved in the last decade. Throughout the last few years, pathological, biological, genetic, and immune-chemical analyses have revealed several tumoral subtypes with diverse biological behavior, highlighting the need for the re-evaluation of established radiological methods. Considering these changes, novel methods that provide functional and quantitative parameters in addition to morphological information are increasingly incorporated into modern diagnostic protocols for HCC. In this way, differential diagnosis became even more challenging throughout the last few years. Use of liver specific contrast agents, as well as CT/MRI perfusion techniques, seem to not only allow earlier detection and more accurate characterization of HCC lesions, but also make it possible to predict response to treatment and survival. Nevertheless, several limitations and technical considerations still exist. This review will describe and discuss all these imaging modalities and their advances in the imaging of HCC lesions in cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic livers. Sensitivity and specificity rates, method limitations, and technical considerations will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelos Chartampilas
- Radiology Department, AHEPA University Hospital, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Correspondence:
| | - Vasileios Rafailidis
- Radiology Department, AHEPA University Hospital, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Vivian Georgopoulou
- Radiology Department, Ippokratio General Hospital of Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Kalarakis
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Karolinska University Hospital, 14152 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Science, Division of Radiology, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, 14152 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Radiology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71500 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Adam Hatzidakis
- Radiology Department, AHEPA University Hospital, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Panos Prassopoulos
- Radiology Department, AHEPA University Hospital, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
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Su TH, Hsu SJ, Kao JH. Paradigm shift in the treatment options of hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver Int 2022; 42:2067-2079. [PMID: 34515412 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is prevalent worldwide with suboptimal therapeutic outcomes. The advancement of therapeutic options and the development of new systemic therapies expand the armamentarium to tackle HCC. Treatment options should be provided based on the hierarchy of efficacy in a multidisciplinary perspective, instead of the traditional stage-guided scheme. In advanced HCC, lenvatinib has a comparable efficacy as sorafenib for the first-line therapy of HCC; while regorafenib, cabozantinib, and ramucirumab have been approved as second-line therapy after the failure of sorafenib. Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy prolongs response rate and survival and enables long-term cure. Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab is superior to sorafenib as the first-line therapy for advanced HCC. Several emerging regimens by the combination of various systemic therapies are currently under clinical trials. Systemic therapy may be used in the neoadjuvant, adjuvant or even as initial therapy for intermediate-stage HCC. The paradigm shift of HCC treatment will improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tung-Hung Su
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Hepatitis Research Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Jer Hsu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Hepatitis Research Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital Yun-Lin Branch, Yunlin, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Horng Kao
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Hepatitis Research Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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da Fonseca LG, Araujo RLC. Combination approaches in hepatocellular carcinoma: How systemic treatment can benefit candidates to locoregional modalities. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:3573-3585. [PMID: 36161045 PMCID: PMC9372805 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i28.3573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is challenging because most patients have underlying cirrhosis, and the treatment provides, historically, a limited impact on the natural history of patients with advanced-stage disease. Additionally, recurrence rates are high for those patients who receive local and locoregional modalities, such as surgical (resection and transplantation) or image-guided (ablation and intra-arterial) therapies. Translational research has led to new concepts that are reshaping the current clinical practice. Substantial advancements were achieved in the understanding of the hallmarks that drive hepatocarcinogenesis. This has primed a successful incorporation of novel agents with different targets, such as anti-angiogenic drugs, targeted-therapies, and immune-checkpoint inhibitors. Although clinical trials have proven efficacy of systemic agents in advanced stage disease, there is no conclusive evidence to support their use in combination with loco-regional therapy. While novel local modalities are being incorporated (e.g., radioembolization, microwave ablation, and irreversible electroporation), emerging data indicate that locoregional treatments may induce tumor microenvironment changes, such as hyperexpression of growth factors, release of tumor antigens, infiltration of cytotoxic lymphocytes, and modulation of adaptative and innate immune response. Past trials that evaluated the use of antiangiogenic drugs in the adjuvant setting after ablation or chemoembolization fail to demonstrate a substantial improvement. Current efforts are directed to investigate the role of immunotherapy-based regimens in this context. The present review aims to describe the current landscape of systemic and locoregional treatments for HCC, present evidence to support combination approaches, and address future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Gomes da Fonseca
- Department of Medical Oncology, Instituto do Cancer do Estado de Sao Paulo, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo 01246-000, São Paulo, Brazil
- Hospital e Maternidade Brasil - Rede D'Or São Luiz, Santo André 09030-590, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Raphael L C Araujo
- Department of Digestive Surgery, Escola Paulista de Medicina - UNIFESP, São Paulo 04023-062, São Paulo, Brazil
- Hospital e Maternidade Brasil - Rede D'Or São Luiz, Santo André 09030-590, São Paulo, Brazil
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Pusceddu C, Mascia L, Ninniri C, Ballicu N, Zedda S, Melis L, Deiana G, Porcu A, Fancellu A. The Increasing Role of CT-Guided Cryoablation for the Treatment of Liver Cancer: A Single-Center Report. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14123018. [PMID: 35740682 PMCID: PMC9221264 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14123018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Cryoablation (CrA) is a minimally invasive treatment that can be used in primary and metastatic liver cancer. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of CrA in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver metastases. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the patients who had CrA for HCC or liver metastases between 2015 and 2020. Technical success, complete ablation, CrA-related complications, local tumor progression, local recurrences, and distant metastases were evaluated in the study population. In patients with HCC, the median survival was also estimated. Results: Sixty-four liver tumors in 49 patients were treated with CrA (50 metastases and 14 HCC). The mean tumor diameter was 2.15 cm. The mean follow-up was 19.8 months. Technical success was achieved in the whole study population. Complete tumor ablation was observed after one month in 92% of lesions treated with CrA (79% and 96% in the HCC Group and metastases Group, respectively, p < 0.001). Local tumor progression occurred in 12.5 of lesions, with no difference between the study groups (p = 0.105). Sixteen patients (33%) developed local recurrence (45% and 29% in the HCC Group and metastases Group, respectively, p = 0.477). Seven patients (14%) developed distant metastases in the follow-up period. Ten patients (20.8%) underwent redo CrA for local recurrence or incomplete tumor ablation. Minor complications were observed in 14% of patients. In patients with HCC, the median survival was 22 months. Conclusions: CrA can be safely used for treatment of HCC and liver metastases not amenable of surgical resection. Further studies are necessary to better define the role of CrA in the multidisciplinary treatment of liver malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Pusceddu
- Department of Oncological and Interventional Radiology, Oncological Hospital A, Businco, I-09121 Cagliari, Italy; (C.P.); (N.B.); (S.Z.); (L.M.)
| | - Luigi Mascia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncological Hospital A, Businco, I-09121 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Chiara Ninniri
- Unit of General Surgery 2, Clinica Chirurgica, Department of Medical, Surgical, and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, I-07100 Sassari, Italy; (C.N.); (G.D.); (A.P.)
| | - Nicola Ballicu
- Department of Oncological and Interventional Radiology, Oncological Hospital A, Businco, I-09121 Cagliari, Italy; (C.P.); (N.B.); (S.Z.); (L.M.)
| | - Stefano Zedda
- Department of Oncological and Interventional Radiology, Oncological Hospital A, Businco, I-09121 Cagliari, Italy; (C.P.); (N.B.); (S.Z.); (L.M.)
| | - Luca Melis
- Department of Oncological and Interventional Radiology, Oncological Hospital A, Businco, I-09121 Cagliari, Italy; (C.P.); (N.B.); (S.Z.); (L.M.)
| | - Giulia Deiana
- Unit of General Surgery 2, Clinica Chirurgica, Department of Medical, Surgical, and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, I-07100 Sassari, Italy; (C.N.); (G.D.); (A.P.)
| | - Alberto Porcu
- Unit of General Surgery 2, Clinica Chirurgica, Department of Medical, Surgical, and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, I-07100 Sassari, Italy; (C.N.); (G.D.); (A.P.)
| | - Alessandro Fancellu
- Unit of General Surgery 2, Clinica Chirurgica, Department of Medical, Surgical, and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, I-07100 Sassari, Italy; (C.N.); (G.D.); (A.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-079-228432; Fax: +39-079-228394
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ABDOMEN/BECKEN – No-Touch-Radiofrequenzablation überzeugt bei kleinen hepatozellulären Karzinomen. ROFO-FORTSCHR RONTG 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/a-1692-1374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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40
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Mansur A, Garg T, Shrigiriwar A, Etezadi V, Georgiades C, Habibollahi P, Huber TC, Camacho JC, Nour SG, Sag AA, Prologo JD, Nezami N. Image-Guided Percutaneous Ablation for Primary and Metastatic Tumors. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12061300. [PMID: 35741109 PMCID: PMC9221861 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12061300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Image-guided percutaneous ablation methods have been further developed during the recent two decades and have transformed the minimally invasive and precision features of treatment options targeting primary and metastatic tumors. They work by percutaneously introducing applicators to precisely destroy a tumor and offer much lower risks than conventional methods. There are usually shorter recovery periods, less bleeding, and more preservation of organ parenchyma, expanding the treatment options of patients with cancer who may not be eligible for resection. Image-guided ablation techniques are currently utilized for the treatment of primary and metastatic tumors in various organs including the liver, pancreas, kidneys, thyroid and parathyroid, prostate, lung, bone, and soft tissue. This article provides a brief review of the various imaging modalities and available ablation techniques and discusses their applications and associated complications in various organs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tushar Garg
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Russell H Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (T.G.); (C.G.)
| | - Apurva Shrigiriwar
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA;
| | - Vahid Etezadi
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA;
| | - Christos Georgiades
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Russell H Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (T.G.); (C.G.)
| | - Peiman Habibollahi
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Timothy C. Huber
- Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Dotter Department of Interventional Radiology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA;
| | - Juan C. Camacho
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA;
- Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Radiology Associates of Florida, Sarasota, FL 34239, USA
| | - Sherif G. Nour
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, Florida State University College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA;
| | - Alan Alper Sag
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA;
| | - John David Prologo
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
| | - Nariman Nezami
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA;
- Experimental Therapeutics Program, University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
- Correspondence: or
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Hatzidakis A, Müller L, Krokidis M, Kloeckner R. Local and Regional Therapies for Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Future Combinations. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14102469. [PMID: 35626073 PMCID: PMC9139740 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14102469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Percutaneous interventional radiological techniques offer many alternatives for treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) using local anesthesia and sedation. These methods aim to destroy the malignant tumors locally without affecting the non-malignant liver. In this way, complications are kept low and patient recovery is quick. Indications depend on tumor size, type and stage, as well as patient’s condition, liver function and co-morbidities. In recent years, a lot of research has been made in combining such approaches with immune therapy, but there is still much work to be done. This manuscript tries to analyze where we stand today and explain, using a comprehensive algorithm, the treatment options for each different clinical condition. Abstract Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) can be treated by local and regional methods of percutaneous interventional radiological techniques. Indications depend on tumor size, type and stage, as well as patient’s condition, liver function and co-morbidities. According to international classification systems such as Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) classification, very early, early or intermediate staged tumors can be treated either with ablative methods or with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), depending on tumor characteristics. The combination of both allows for individualized forms of treatment with the ultimate goal of improving response and survival. In recent years, a lot of research has been carried out in combining locoregional approaches with immune therapy. Although recent developments in systemic treatment, especially immunotherapy, seem quite promising and have expanded possible combined treatment options, there is still not enough evidence in their favor. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive up-to-date overview of all these techniques, explaining indications, contraindications, technical problems, outcomes, results and complications. Moreover, combinations of percutaneous treatment with each other or with immunotherapy and future options will be discussed. Use of all those methods as down-staging or bridging solutions until surgery or transplantation are taken into consideration will also be reviewed. Conclusion: Local and regional therapies remain a mainstay of curative and palliative treatment of patients with HCC. Currently, evidence on potential combination of the local and regional treatment options with each other as well as with other treatment modalities is growing and has the potential to further individualize HCC therapy. To identify the most suitable treatment option out of these new various options, a repeated interdisciplinary discussion of each case by the tumor board is of utmost importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Hatzidakis
- Department of Radiology, AHEPA University Hospital of Thessaloniki, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Correspondence:
| | - Lukas Müller
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (L.M.); (R.K.)
| | - Miltiadis Krokidis
- 1st Department of Radiology, Areteion Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece;
| | - Roman Kloeckner
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (L.M.); (R.K.)
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Luerken L, Haimerl M, Doppler M, Uller W, Beyer LP, Stroszczynski C, Einspieler I. Update on Percutaneous Local Ablative Procedures for the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. ROFO-FORTSCHR RONTG 2022; 194:1075-1086. [PMID: 35545102 DOI: 10.1055/a-1768-0954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common tumor worldwide. Because many hepatocellular carcinomas are already unresectable at the time of initial diagnosis, percutaneous tumor ablation has become established in recent decades as a curative therapeutic approach for very early (BCLC 0) and early (BCLC A) HCC. The aim of this paper is to provide a concise overview of the percutaneous local ablative procedures currently in use, based on their technical characteristics as well as clinical relevance, taking into account the current body of studies. MATERIALS AND METHODS The literature search included all original papers, reviews, and meta-analyses available via MEDLINE and Pubmed on the respective percutaneous ablation procedures; the primary focus was on randomized controlled trials and publications from the last 10 years. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA) are well-established procedures that are considered equal to surgical resection in the treatment of stage BCLC 0 and A HCC with a diameter up to 3 cm due to their strong evidence in international and national guidelines. For tumors with a diameter between 3 and 5 cm, the current S3 guidelines recommend a combination of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and thermal ablation using RFA or MWA as combination therapy is superior to thermal ablation alone in tumors of this size and shows comparable results to surgical resection in terms of overall survival. Alternative, less frequently employed thermal procedures include cryotherapy (CT) and laser ablation (LA). Non-thermal procedures include irreversible electroporation (IRE), interstitial brachytherapy (IBT), and most recently, electrochemotherapy (ECT). Due to insufficient evidence, these have only been used in individual cases and within the framework of studies. However, the nonthermal methods are a reasonable alternative for ablation of tumors adjacent to large blood vessels and bile ducts because they cause significantly less damage to these structures than thermal ablation methods. With advances in the technology of the respective procedures, increasingly good evidence, and advancements in supportive techniques such as navigation devices and fusion imaging, percutaneous ablation procedures may expand their indications for the treatment of larger and more advanced tumors in the coming years. KEY POINTS · RFA and MWA are considered equal to surgical resection as a first-line therapy for the curative treatment of stage BCLC 0 and A HCCs with a diameter of up to 3 cm.. · For HCCs with a diameter between 3 and 5 cm, a combination of TACE and RFA or MWA is recommended. This combination therapy yields results comparable to those of surgical resection in terms of overall survival.. · Due to insufficient evidence, alternative ablation methods have only been used in individual cases and within the framework of studies. However, nonthermal methods, such as IRE, IBT, and, most recently, ECT, are a reasonable alternative for ablation of HCCs adjacent to large blood vessels and bile ducts because they cause significantly less damage to these structures than thermal ablation methods.. CITATION FORMAT · Luerken L, Haimerl M, Doppler M et al. Update on Percutaneous Local Ablative Procedures for the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2022; DOI: 10.1055/a-1768-0954.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Luerken
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Regensburg, Germany
| | - Michael Haimerl
- Institut für Röntgendiagnostik, University Hospital Regensburg, Germany
| | - Michael Doppler
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Freiburg Department of Radiology, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Wibke Uller
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Freiburg Department of Radiology, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lukas Philipp Beyer
- Institut für Röntgendiagnostik, University Hospital Regensburg, Germany.,Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie, Klinikum Ernst von Bergmann gGmbH, Potsdam, Germany
| | | | - Ingo Einspieler
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Regensburg, Germany
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Luo J, Dong Z, Xie H, Zhang W, An L, Yu Z, Chang X, Chen Y, Yang W, Hu K, Liu F, Yang Y. Efficacy and safety of percutaneous cryoablation for elderly patients with small hepatocellular carcinoma: A prospective multicenter study. Liver Int 2022; 42:918-929. [PMID: 35065003 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Management of elderly patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has become a major concern. Some data suggest that cryoablation improves the outcomes of elderly patients with HCC, but its efficacy and safety remain unknown. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of percutaneous cryoablation with those of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for elderly HCC patients. METHODS In all, 223 patients with small HCC aged ≥70 years, treatment-naïve, without metastasis were enrolled and randomized into a cryoablation group (n = 112) or a RFA (n = 111) group from July 2015 to October 2018. The primary endpoint was local tumour progression (LTP) at 3 years after treatment. The secondary endpoints including overall survival (OS), tumour-free survival (TFS), LTP and safety were analysed for these two groups after both treatments. RESULTS LTP rates at 1-, 3- and 5-year were 12%, 17% and 20% for cryoablation and 17%, 18% and 21% for RFA respectively (P = .735). For lesions >3 cm in diameter, LTP rates at 1- and 3-year were 13% and 22% in cryoablation group and 22% and 42% respectively, in the RFA group (P = .039). The 1-, 3- and 5-year OS rates were 90, 75% and 62% for cryoablation and 90%, 68% and 63% for RFA respectively (P = .331). The 1-, 3- and 5-year TFS rates were 59%, 32% and 25% in the cryoablation and 59%, 28% and 20% in the RFA respectively (P = .309). Major complications occurred in 6 patients (5%) following cryoablation and 6 patients (6%) following RFA (P = .886). CONCLUSION Cryoablation and RFA had similar LTP in elderly patients with small HCC and this study failed to meet the primary endpoint, although for a relatively large early-stage HCC the LTP rate after cryoablation was significantly lower than that after RFA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Luo
- Peking University 302 Clinical Medical School, Beijing, China.,Faculty of Liver Disease of Chinese PLA General Hospital, The Fifth Medical of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zheng Dong
- Faculty of Liver Disease of Chinese PLA General Hospital, The Fifth Medical of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Xie
- Faculty of Oncology of Chinese PLA General Hospital, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Faculty of Liver Disease of Chinese PLA General Hospital, The Fifth Medical of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Linjing An
- Faculty of Liver Disease of Chinese PLA General Hospital, The Fifth Medical of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhe Yu
- Peking University 302 Clinical Medical School, Beijing, China.,Faculty of Liver Disease of Chinese PLA General Hospital, The Fifth Medical of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiujuan Chang
- Faculty of Liver Disease of Chinese PLA General Hospital, The Fifth Medical of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Faculty of Liver Disease of Chinese PLA General Hospital, The Fifth Medical of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wuwei Yang
- Faculty of Oncology of Chinese PLA General Hospital, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Kaiwen Hu
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Fuquan Liu
- Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yongping Yang
- Peking University 302 Clinical Medical School, Beijing, China.,Faculty of Liver Disease of Chinese PLA General Hospital, The Fifth Medical of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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Wang K, Wang C, Jiang H, Zhang Y, Lin W, Mo J, Jin C. Combination of Ablation and Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Where We Are and Where to Go. Front Immunol 2022; 12:792781. [PMID: 34975896 PMCID: PMC8714655 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.792781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide and is increasing in incidence. Local ablative therapy plays a leading role in HCC treatment. Radiofrequency (RFA) is one of the first-line therapies for early local ablation. Other local ablation techniques (e.g., microwave ablation, cryoablation, irreversible electroporation, phototherapy.) have been extensively explored in clinical trials or cell/animal studies but have not yet been established as a standard treatment or applied clinically. On the one hand, single treatment may not meet the needs. On the other hand, ablative therapy can stimulate local and systemic immune effects. The combination strategy of immunotherapy and ablation is reasonable. In this review, we briefly summarized the current status and progress of ablation and immunotherapy for HCC. The immune effects of local ablation and the strategies of combination therapy, especially synergistic strategies based on biomedical materials, were discussed. This review is hoped to provide references for future researches on ablative immunotherapy to arrive to a promising new era of HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunpeng Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou, China
| | - Cong Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hao Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou, China
| | - Yaqiong Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou, China
| | - Weidong Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou, China
| | - Jinggang Mo
- Department of General Surgery, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou, China
| | - Chong Jin
- Department of General Surgery, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou, China
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Daye D, Hu EY, Glazer DI, Tuncali K, Levesque V, Shyn PB. Periprocedural factors associated with overall patient survival following percutaneous image-guided liver tumor cryoablation. Int J Hyperthermia 2021; 39:34-39. [PMID: 34937523 DOI: 10.1080/02656736.2021.2013552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the impact of periprocedural factors, including adverse events, on overall patient survival following image-guided liver tumor cryoablation procedures. METHODS In this retrospective single-institution study, 143 patients (73 male, 70 female, ages 29-88) underwent 169 image-guided liver tumor cryoablation procedures between October 1998 and August 2014. Patient, tumor and procedural variables were recorded. The primary outcome was overall survival post-procedure (Kaplan-Meier analysis). Secondary outcomes were the impact of 15 variables on patient survival, which were assessed with multivariate cox regression and log-rank tests. RESULTS Mean tumor diameter was 2.5 ± 1.2 cm. 26 of 143 (18.2%) patients had primary hepatic malignancies; 117 of 143 (81.8%) had liver metastases. Survival analysis revealed survivor functions at 3, 5, 7, 10 and 12 years post-ablation of 0.54, 0.37, 0.30, 0.17 and 0.06, with mean survival time of 40.8 ± 4.9 months. Tumor size ≥4 cm (p = .018), pre-procedural platelet count <100 × 103/μL (p = .023), and prior local radiation therapy (p = .014) were associated with worse overall patient survival. Grade 3 or higher adverse events were not associated with reduced survival (p = .49). CONCLUSIONS All variables associated with overall survival were patient-related and none were associated with the cryoablation procedure. Pre-procedural thrombocytopenia, larger tumor size and history of prior local radiation therapy were independent risk factors for reduced overall survival in patients undergoing hepatic cryoablation. Adverse events related to hepatic cryoablation were not associated with decreased survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dania Daye
- Department of Radiology, Division of Abdominal Imaging and Intervention, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Emmy Y Hu
- Department of Radiology, Division of Abdominal Imaging and Intervention, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniel I Glazer
- Department of Radiology, Division of Abdominal Imaging and Intervention, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kemal Tuncali
- Department of Radiology, Division of Abdominal Imaging and Intervention, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vincent Levesque
- Department of Radiology, Division of Abdominal Imaging and Intervention, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paul B Shyn
- Department of Radiology, Division of Abdominal Imaging and Intervention, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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46
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Yang S, Lin H, Song J. Efficacy and safety of various primary treatment strategies for very early and early hepatocellular carcinoma: a network meta-analysis. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:681. [PMID: 34923980 PMCID: PMC8684647 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02365-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several treatments are available for treatment of early and very early-stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma, also known as small Hepatocellular Carcinoma (SHCC). However, there is no consensus with regards to the efficacies of these methods. We aimed at identifying the most effective initial treatment strategy for SHCC through Bayesian network meta-analyses. METHODS Studies published between January, 2010, and February, 2021 were searched in EMBASE, Cochrane Library, PubMed and Web of science databases, and conference proceedings for trials. The included studies reported the survival outcomes of very early and early Hepatocellular Carcinoma patients subjected to radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation (MWA), surgical resection (SR), transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI), minimally invasive liver surgery (MIS), stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) and cryoablation (CA). Then, data were extracted from studies that met the inclusion criteria. Patient survival data were retrieved from the published Kaplan-Meier curves and pooled. A Bayesian random-effects model was used to combine direct and indirect evidence. RESULTS A total of 2058 articles were retrieved and screened, from which 45 studies assessing the efficacies of 8 different treatments in 11,364 patients were selected. The included studies had high methodological quality. Recurrence free survival* (progression/recurrence/relapse/disease/tumor-free survival were combined and redefined as RFS*) and overall survival (OS) outcomes were highest in MIS-treated patients (HR 0·57, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 0·38-0·85; HR 0.48,95% CI 0.36-0.64, respectively), followed by SR-treated patients (HR 0.60, 95% CI 0.50-0.74; HR 0.62, 95% CI 0.55-0.72, respectively). TACE was highly efficacious (58.9%) at decreasing the rates of major complications. Similar findings were obtained through sensitivity analysis, and in most of the prognostic subgroups. CONCLUSIONS MIS and SR exhibited the highest clinical efficacies, however, they were associated with higher rates of complications. Ablation is effective in small tumors, whereas SBRT is a relatively promising treatment option for SHCC. More well-designed, large-scale randomized controlled trials should be performed to validate our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sha Yang
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
- Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Stem Cell Therapy, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
- Children S Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Huapeng Lin
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianning Song
- Department of General Surgery, Guiqian International General Hospital, 1 Dongfeng Dadao, Wudang District, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550018, People's Republic of China.
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47
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Image-guided locoregional non-intravascular interventional treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma: Current status. J Interv Med 2021; 4:1-7. [PMID: 34805939 PMCID: PMC8562266 DOI: 10.1016/j.jimed.2020.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most deadly and frequent cancers worldwide, although great advancement in the treatment of this malignancy have been made within the past few decades. It continues to be a major health issue due to an increasing incidence and a poor prognosis. The majority of patients have their HCC diagnosed at an intermediate or advanced stage in theUSA or China. Curative therapy such as surgical resection or liver transplantation is not considered anoption of treatment at these stages. Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), the most widely used locoregional therapeutic approach, used to be the mainstay of treatment for cases with unresectable cancer entities. However, for those patients with hypovascular tumors or impaired liver function reserve, TACE is a suboptimal treatment option. For example, embolization does not result in complete coverage of a hypovascular tumor, and may rather promotes postoperative tumor recurrence, or leave residual tumor, in these TACE-resistance patients. In addition, TACE carries a higher risk of hepatic decompensation in patients with poor liver function or reserve. Non-vascular interventional locoregional therapies for HCC include radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation (MWA), high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), laser-induced thermotherapy (LITT), cryosurgical ablation (CSA), irreversible Electroporation (IRE), percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI), and brachytherapy. Recent advancements in these techniques have significantly improved the treatment efficacy of HCC and expanded the population of patients who qualify for treatment. This review embraces the current status of imaging-guided locoregional non-intravascular interventional treatments for HCCs, with a primary focus on the clinical evaluation and assessment of the efficacy of combined therapies using these interventional techniques.
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48
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Huber TC, Bochnakova T, Koethe Y, Park B, Farsad K. Percutaneous Therapies for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Evolution of Liver Directed Therapies. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2021; 8:1181-1193. [PMID: 34589446 PMCID: PMC8476177 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s268300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Percutaneous ablation is a mainstay of treatment for early stage, unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recent advances in technology have created multiple ablative modalities for treatment of this common malignancy. The purpose of this review is to familiarize readers with the technical and clinical aspects of both existing and emerging percutaneous treatment options for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy C Huber
- Dotter Department of Interventional Radiology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Teodora Bochnakova
- Dotter Department of Interventional Radiology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Yilun Koethe
- Dotter Department of Interventional Radiology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Brian Park
- Dotter Department of Interventional Radiology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Khashayar Farsad
- Dotter Department of Interventional Radiology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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49
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Haber PK, Puigvehí M, Castet F, Lourdusamy V, Montal R, Tabrizian P, Buckstein M, Kim E, Villanueva A, Schwartz M, Llovet JM. Evidence-Based Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials (2002-2020). Gastroenterology 2021; 161:879-898. [PMID: 34126063 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2021.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality, with a rapidly changing landscape of treatments. In the past 20 years, numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have aimed at improving outcomes across disease stages. We aimed to analyze the current evidence and identify potential factors influencing response to therapies. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of phase III RCTs (2002-2020) across disease stages. A meta-analysis was designed to examine the relationship between etiology and outcome after systemic therapies with either tyrosine-kinase inhibitor (TKI)/antiangiogenic or immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy. RESULTS Out of 10,100 studies identified, 76 were phase III RCTs. Among them, a rigorous screening algorithm identified 49 with high quality including a total of 22,113 patients undergoing adjuvant (n = 7) and primary treatment for early (n = 2), intermediate (n = 7), and advanced (first-line, n = 21; second-line, n = 12) stages of disease. Nine of these trials were positive, 6 treatments have been adopted in guidelines (sorafenib [2 RCTs], lenvatinib, atezolizumab+bevacizumab, regorafenib, cabozantinib and ramucirumab), but 2 were not (adjuvant CIK cells and sorafenib plus hepatic arterial infusion with FOLFOX). Meta-analysis of 8 trials including 3739 patients revealed ICI therapy to be significantly more effective in patients with viral hepatitis compared with nonviral-related HCC, whereas no differences related to etiology were observed in patients treated with TKI/anti-vascular endothelial growth factor. CONCLUSIONS Among 49 high-quality RCTs conducted in HCC during 2002-2020, 9 resulted in positive results. A meta-analysis of systemic therapies suggests that immunotherapies may be more effective in viral etiologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp K Haber
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Marc Puigvehí
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA; Hepatology Section, Gastroenterology Department, Parc de Salut Mar, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Florian Castet
- Translational Research in Hepatic Oncology, Liver Unit, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas August Pi i Sunyer, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Vennis Lourdusamy
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Robert Montal
- Cancer Biomarkers Research Group, Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova-IRBLleida, Lleida, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Parissa Tabrizian
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Michael Buckstein
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Edward Kim
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Augusto Villanueva
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Myron Schwartz
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Josep M Llovet
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA; Translational Research in Hepatic Oncology, Liver Unit, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas August Pi i Sunyer, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
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50
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Piñero F, Tanno M, Aballay Soteras G, Tisi Baña M, Dirchwolf M, Fassio E, Ruf A, Mengarelli S, Borzi S, Fernández N, Ridruejo E, Descalzi V, Anders M, Mazzolini G, Reggiardo V, Marciano S, Perazzo F, Spina JC, McCormack L, Maraschio M, Lagues C, Gadano A, Villamil F, Silva M, Cairo F, Ameigeiras B. Argentinian clinical practice guideline for surveillance, diagnosis, staging and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Ann Hepatol 2021; 19:546-569. [PMID: 32593747 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2020.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The A.A.E.E.H has developed this guideline for the best care of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) from Argentina. It was done from May 2018 to March 2020. Specific clinical research questions were systematically searched. The quality of evidence and level of recommendations were organized according to GRADE. HCC surveillance is strongly recommended with abdominal ultrasound (US) every six months in the population at risk for HCC (cirrhosis, hepatitis B or hepatitis C); it is suggested to add alpha-feto protein (AFP) levels in case of inexeperienced sonographers. Imaging diagnosis in patients at risk for HCC has high specificity and tumor biopsy is not mandatory. The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer algorithm is strongly recommended for HCC staging and treatment-decision processes. Liver resection is strongly recommended for patients without portal hypertension and preserved liver function. Composite models are suggested for liver transplant selection criteria. Therapies for HCC with robust clinical evidence include transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and first to second line systemic treatment options (sorafenib, lenvatinib, regorafenib, cabozantinib and ramucirumab). Immunotherapy with nivolumab and pembrolizumab has failed to show statistical benefit but the novel combination of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab has recently shown survival benefit over sorafenib in frontline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Piñero
- Hepatology and Liver Unit, Hospital Universitario Austral, School of Medicine, Austral University, B1629HJ Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Mario Tanno
- Hospital Centenario de Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | | | - Matías Tisi Baña
- Internal Medicine and Epidemiology Department, Hospital Universitario Austral, School of Medicine, Austral University, B1629HJ Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | - Andrés Ruf
- Hospital Privado de Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | | | - Silvia Borzi
- Instituto Rossi, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Ezequiel Ridruejo
- Hepatology and Liver Unit, Hospital Universitario Austral, School of Medicine, Austral University, B1629HJ Buenos Aires, Argentina; Centro de Educación Médica e Investigaciones Clínicas (CEMIC), Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | - Guillermo Mazzolini
- Hepatology and Liver Unit, Hospital Universitario Austral, School of Medicine, Austral University, B1629HJ Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Cecilia Lagues
- Hepatology and Liver Unit, Hospital Universitario Austral, School of Medicine, Austral University, B1629HJ Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | - Marcelo Silva
- Hepatology and Liver Unit, Hospital Universitario Austral, School of Medicine, Austral University, B1629HJ Buenos Aires, Argentina
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