Ultrasound-guided thermal ablation of malignant hepatic tumors

Primary and secondary malignant hepatic tumors are some of the most common tumors in the world. Unfortunately chemotherapy and radiation therapy are ineffective against them. Surgical resection is considered the definitive curative option; however, only a few patients are surgical candidates. Recent results from multiple investigations indicate several minimally invasive management techniques are effective for treating those with primary and secondary malignant tumors, and that these techniques may likely replace surgical resection in the near future. In this article the authors will review the current thermal ablative techniques for malignant hepatic tumors including radiofrequency ablation, microwave ablation, and laser ablation. Aspects of each technique, including patient selection, equipment, management technique, and recent patient outcome, will be presented. The benefits and limitations of each technique will be discussed.