Microwave coagulation of hepatocellular carcinoma

Percutaneous microwave coagulation therapy (PMCT) is a new therapeutic technique for the treatment of solid neoplasms. In this report, we present our 5 years' experience with PMCT for the treatment of 69 hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) in 60 patients. Under ultrasonic guidance, we inserted a 2.1 mm guiding needle percutaneously toward the lesion and a needle electrode was precisely positioned within the lesion. Microwaves, with a frequency of 2450 MHz, were produced for 60 s, with 60 W emission. The overall success rate was 72%, the mean disease-free period was 24.2 months. The procedures were safe and tolerable for all patients. Slight pain and heat sensation were encountered in most patients. We consider PMCT an effective and safe treatment for HCCs.