Intraoperative image-guided liver ablation

Background and indications

During liver surgery, it may be necessary to destroy unresectable tumors located in the future liver remnant. The interventional radiologist intervenes in the operating room to complement the surgical treatment.

Benefits

This combined approach allows treatment of tumors that could not have been treated by surgery alone, while preserving maximum healthy liver tissue.

Procedure

During surgery, the radiologist places an ablation probe directly into the tumor under ultrasound guidance. Ablation is performed using microwave or radiofrequency. Treatment efficacy is verified immediately by imaging.

Risks

Risks include those of liver surgery plus ablation risks (local bleeding, bile duct injury). Overall management is jointly provided by the surgeon and radiologist.

Recovery and follow-up

Hospitalization and recovery depend mainly on the surgery performed. A CT or MRI is performed 4-6 weeks later to assess the result.

Practical information

General anesthesia. Hospital stay: one to two nights.