[Results of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis aged 75 years and over].

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to assess the results and tolerance of radiofrequency ablation in patients with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) older than 75 years.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Over a period of 9 years from January 2001, 235 patients with cirrhosis and 3 or less HCC≤5 cm of diameter were treated by radiofrequency ablation. Among them, 52 patients older than 75 years were selected for this study.

RESULTS

The mean age was 79.4±3. 5 years. There were 36 males, cirrhosis was classified Child-Pugh class A (n=52) related to alcohol (n=13), HCV infection (n=33), or other causes (n=6). The mean tumour diameter was 32.5±10.6 mm, and 14 patients had a multifocal HCC. A complete ablation was obtained in 50/52 patients (96%). No severe complication occurred. The estimated overall survival rates were 62%, 52% and 36% at 3 years, 4 years and 5 years, respectively; it was similar to those observed in patients younger than 75 years.

CONCLUSION

In patients with cirrhosis older than 75 years, radiofrequency ablation of 3 or less HCC≤5cm is well tolerated and survivals rates are similar to those of younger patients.