Radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma: the need for centralization.

摘要

We read with great interest the systematic review "The Current Role of Ra-diofrequency ablation in the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma," in which Lau and Lai summarized the published data and clearly defined the role of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) as a treatment option for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).1 As the authors pointed out, patients with smaller HCC (tumor diameter: £30 mm) have significantly better local control compared with patients with larger tumors. However, given the absence of randomized controlled trials, there is no consensus on whether to use the percutaneous, laparoscopic or intraoperative approach. In addition, we would like to emphasize the importance of operator-related expertise and hospital volume on the outcome of RFA for HCC treatment, as many clinicians are embarking on this therapy without paying much attention to its associated learning curve.