Predicting microvascular invasion in small ( ≤ 5 cm) hepatocellular carcinomas using radiomics-based peritumoral analysis

ConclusionThe 5-mm peritumoral arterial model had superior accuracy and sensitivity in predicting MVI. Moreover, the combined tumor and peritumoral radiomics model outperformed both the individual tumor and peritumoral radiomics models. The most effective combination was the arterial phase tumor and peritumor 5-mm margin combination. Using a fusion model that integrates tumor and peritumoral radiomics and clinical data can aid in the preoperative diagnosis of the MVI of isolated HCC  ≤ 5 cm, indicating considerable practical value.Critical relevance statementThe radiomics model including a 5-mm peritumoral expansion is a promising noninvasive biomarker for preoperatively predicting microvascular invasion in patients diagnosed with a solitary HCC  ≤ 5 cm.Key points• Radiomics features extracted at a 5-mm distance from the tumor could better predict hepatocellular carcinoma microvascular invasion.• Peritumoral radiomics can be used to capture tumor heterogeneity and predict microvascular invasion.• This radiomics model stands as a promising noninvasive biomarker for preoperatively predicting MVI in individuals.Graphical Abstract
Source: Insights into Imaging - Category: Radiology Source Type: research