WITHDRAWN: Simultaneous transarterial chemoembolization combined with radiofrequency ablation for treatment of large hepatocellular carcinoma: 3 years follow-up

Abstract

Aims: To evaluate the recurrence and mid-term survival in patients with large hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC, diameter ≥ 8 cm) after simultaneous transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) combined with radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Materials and Methods: From March 2010 to Nov 2013, 46 consecutive patients of HCC with large HCC (8.17-8.80 cm; 8.40 ± 2.62 cm) were treated by simultaneous TACE combined with RFA, with single tumor in 35 of 46 patients. Progressive free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were retrospectively analyzed. Results: 46 sessions of simultaneous TACE combined with RFA were performed successfully without significant complications. The PFS and OS median survival time were 9.40 ± 1.31 or 18.43 ± 1.34 months at 2-year, 10.21 ± 1.58 or 26.44 ± 2.26 months at 3-year, respectively. Patient survival rates were 67.50% at 2 year and 55.67% at 3years, respectively. Of patients with progression, comprehensive treatment including TACE and sorafenib was performed. Conclusions: Simultaneous TACE combined with RFA is a safe and effective treatment modality in patients with large HCCs, the preliminary data make it a promising treatment modality.