Radiofrequency ablation of colorectal liver metastases: long-term survival

PURPOSE: To evaluate the results of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) therapy with regard to long-term survival and rate of complications in patients with liver metastases from colorectal carcinoma. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 102 patients were included and treated with RFA. In 100 patients, resection was not possible; two patients refused surgery. The patients had a total of 332 colorectal liver metastases. Pre- and post-treatment evaluation was performed with contrast-enhanced computed tomography. Survival from time of diagnosis of liver metastases was calculated by Kaplan-Meier analysis. Complications were recorded as minor or major in accordance with the definitions of the Society for Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology. RESULTS: Estimated median survival from time of diagnosis of liver metastases was 52 months (95% CI 34-82). Estimated 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, and 5-year survival was 96%, 79%, 64%, 52%, and 44%, respectively. Minor complications were recorded following seven RFA treatments (4.0%) and major complications following 12 RFA treatments (6.9%). CONCLUSION: RFA is an effective method to treat liver metastases from colorectal carcinoma. Survival is improved and comparable with survival following surgical resection. The rate of complications is low.