Long-term results of radiofrequency ablation for unresectable colorectal liver metastases: a potentially curative intervention

Objective: The long-term results and prognostic factors of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for unresectable colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) in a single centre with >10 years of experience were retrospectively analysed. Methods: A total of 100 patients with unresectable colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) (size 0.2–8.3 cm; mean 2.4 cm) underwent a total of 126 RFA sessions (237 lesions). The mean follow-up time was 29 months (range 6–93 months). Lesion characteristics (size, number and location), procedure characteristics (percutaneous or intra-operative approach) and major and minor complications were carefully noted. Local control, mean survival time and recurrence-free and overall survival were statistically analysed. Results: No direct procedure-related deaths were observed. Major complications were present in eight patients. Local RFA site recurrence was 12.7% (n = 30/237); for tumour diameters of 5 cm, recurrence was 5.6% (n = 8/143), 19.5% (n = 15/77) and 41.2% (n = 7/17), respect...