Incidence and clinical impact of bile ducts changes after multibipolar radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma

ConclusionBile duct changes are common after mbpRFA for HCC, especially in tumors with an infiltrative aspect or those located in segment VIII. These changes do not appear to negatively impact the course of cirrhosis at 1 year or overall survival.Clinical relevance statementBile duct changes following mbpRFA for HCC are relatively common. Nevertheless, they do not raise clinical concerns in terms of complications, deterioration in liver function, or survival rates. Consequently, specific monitoring or interventions for these bile duct changes are not warranted.Key Points•Bile duct changes are frequently observed after multibipolar radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma, occurring in 33% of cases in our study.•Patients with bile duct changes exhibited a higher increase in bilirubin levels at 6 months but no more cirrhosis decompensation or liver abscesses.•Biliary changes following multibipolar radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma are not alarming and do not necessitate any specific monitoring or intervention.Graphical abstract
Source: European Radiology - Category: Radiology Source Type: research