Open AccessCurrent role of radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of colorectal liver metastases
Author(s) -
McKay A.,
Dixon E.,
Taylor M.
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
british journal of surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.202
H-Index - 201
eISSN - 1365-2168
pISSN - 0007-1323
DOI - 10.1002/bjs.5581
Subject(s) - medicine , radiofrequency ablation , ablation , colorectal cancer , overall survival , resection , curative treatment , disease , surgery , radiology , oncology , cancer
Background and method: This paper reviews the current status of radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of colorectal liver metastases. Relevant studies with at least ten patients that reported rates of complete tumour ablation, local recurrence, or survival from 1 to 5 years after treatment were included in the review. Results and conclusion: Only six studies that reported at least 3‐year survival were identified, with results ranging from 37 to 58 per cent. Some of these figures are promising, given that the patients were considered to have unresectable disease. However, available evidence is limited and hepatic resection remains the standard of care when feasible; radiofrequency ablation cannot be considered an equivalent. Radiofrequency ablation does, however, appear to have a role in treating unresectable disease, and may also be used in conjunction with resection to extend its limits. Copyright © 2006 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.