Immediate outcome of microwave ablation for liver tumours in a single cohort of patients in Sri Lanka.

Abstract

Introduction and Objectives Microwave ablation (MWA) is an emerging treatment modality for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and other liver tumours. We aimed to assess the immediate success and complications of MWA in a cohort of patients. Method Patients were assessed retrospectively, using an intervieweradministered questionnaire and a follow-up CECT/MRI at, 6-week.Result 55 patients underwent MWA from October 2021-May 2022, at Colombo-North Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka, and selected private hospitals( Durdans Hospital, Colombo, Nawaloka Hospital, Colombo, Lanka Hospital, Colombo).The median age was 64 (40-82) years, with a male preponderance (n=45, 81.1%). The indication was HCC in 54 (98.1%) and metastatic tumour in one (1.8%). The median tumour size was 28 (10-80) mm. Segment VII was the commonest site to be involved (n=18, 34.6%). The majority (n=40, 72.7%) was a single lesion. No participant underwent the procedure twice. The mean post-procedural hospital stay was 12 hours (95%CI=11.4-12.5, SD=2.0).In the 6-week follow-up, 2 recurrences (3.6%) and single death (1.8%) with no relation to the procedure, were reported. Another 2 (3.6%) denied the follow-up. Complete ablation was reported in 46 patients (83.7%), comparable to the rates in literature (95-97%), with only 7 patients (12.7%) having residual tumours. No major complications were reported. 9 patients (16.4%) developed 'Post ablation syndrome', not as common as in literature (34%). They presented with abdominal pain (7.3%), vomiting (7.3%), and fever (3.6%).Conclusion MWA is a successful and safe treatment option for primary liver tumours in Sri Lanka, with ablation rates comparable to the western world.