The application of ultrasound-CT double-guided radiofrequency ablation for hepatic tumors: preliminary experience in 15 cases

Objective: To discuss the clinical application of ultrasound-CT double-guided radiofrequency ablation(RFA) in treating hepatic tumors. Methods: Fifteen patients with 20 liver tumor lesions were included in this study. Ultrasound-CT double-guided radiofrequency ablation was employed in all patients. First, under ultrasound guidance the electrode of RFA was inserted to the site close to the lesion, then, guided by CT scanning the accurate positioning of the electrode was accomplished and RFA procedure was completed. Results: The accurate puncturing of the electrode was achieved in all 20 hepatic lesions, and the RFA procedure was successfully performed in a short time. Follow-up examination showed that there was no obvious residual tumor tissue, and no RFA-related complications occurred in all the 15 patients. Conclusion: Under ultrasound-CT double-guidance, the percutaneous transhepatic puncturing can be more accurately accomplished, which can ensure a successful RFA procedure. This technique is especially useful when the hepatic tumor is incomplete or unclear on ultrasonograph, and it can improve the puncturing accuracy and reduce the complications as well. (authors)