Percutaneous ethanol injection and radio-frequency ablation for the treatment of nonresectable colorectal liver metastases - techniques and results.

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI) and radio-frequency (RF) ablation are possible palliative treatment modalities for patients with non-resectable liver metastases of colorectal carcinomas. The different techniques are explained and reviewed.

RESULTS

PEI did not show promising results for the treatment of liver metastases. RF results were more encouraging; some studies showed improved mean survival times for patients when a complete necrosis of the metastases could be achieved. The maximum diameter of the necrotic area possible in a single session is about 5 cm.

CONCLUSION

PEI and RF are palliative last-line treatment strategies for patients with non-resectable liver metastases and should only be applied if chemotherapy is not sufficient or not possible. The long-term efficacy of RF ablation in this group of patients has to be evaluated.