Factors predicting long-term outcomes of early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma after primary curative treatment: the role of surgical or nonsurgical methods.

BACKGROUND: We quantified the elusive effects of putative factors on the clinical course of early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after primary surgical or nonsurgical curative treatment. METHODS: Patients with newly diagnosed early HCC who received surgical resection (SR) or percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) with or without transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) from January 2003 to December 2016 were enrolled. The cumulative overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) rates were compared. A polytomous logistic regression was used to estimate factors for early and late recurrence. Independent predictors of OS were identified using Cox proportional hazard regression. RESULTS: One hundred twenty-five patients underwent SR, and 176 patients underwent RFA, of whom 72 were treated with TACE followed by RFA. Neither match analysis based on propensity score nor multiple adjustment regression yielded a significant difference in DFS and OS between the two groups. Multivariate analysis showed high AFP (> 20 ng/mL), and multinodularity significantly increased risk of early recurrence (< 1 year). In contrast, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus and multinodularity were significantly associated with late recurrence (> 1 year). Multivariate Cox regression with recurrent events as time-varying covariates identified older age (HR = 1.55, 95% CI:1.01-2.36), clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) (HR = 1.97, 95% CI:1.26-3.08), early recurrence (HR = 6.62, 95% CI:3.79-11.6) and late recurrence (HR = 3.75, 95% CI:1.99-7.08) as independent risk factors of mortality. A simple risk score showed fair calibration and discrimination in early HCC patients after primary curative treatment. In the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage A subgroup, SR significantly improved DFS compared to RFA with or without TACE. CONCLUSION: Host and tumor factors rather than the initial treatment modalities determine the outcomes of early HCC after primary curative treatment. Statistical models based on recurrence types can predict early HCC prognosis but further external validation is necessary.

Optimal application of stereotactic body radiotherapy and radiofrequency ablation treatment for different multifocal hepatocellular carcinoma lesions in patients with Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage A4-B1: a pilot study.

BACKGROUND: In clinical practice, many hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients in Barcelona Clinical Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage A4-B1 cannot receive the curative treatments of liver transplantation, resection, and radiofrequency ablation (RFA), which are the recommended options according to liver cancer guidelines. Our aim is to study the feasibility of RFA and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) as a curative treatment for different multifocal HCCs in BCLC stage A4-B1 patients. METHODS: From September 2014 to August 2019, 39 multifocal HCC lesions (median diameter: 16.6 mm) from 15 patients (median age: 73 years) were retrospectively selected. Among them, 23 were treated by RFA and the other 16 by SBRT because of predictable insufficiency and/or risk related to RFA performance. The indicators for evaluating this novel therapy were the tumor response, prognosis (recurrence and survival), and adverse effects (deterioration of laboratory test values and severe complications). RESULTS: The median follow-up duration was 31.3 months (range: 15.1-71.9 months). The total patients with a one-year complete response, stable disease, or disease progression were 11, 1, and 3, respectively. In total, 8 and 2 patients had confronted intrahepatic or local recurrence, respectively. The one-year progression-free survival rate and local control rate were 80% (12/15 patients) and 97.4% (38/39 lesions), respectively. The median time to progression was 20.1 (2.8-45.1) months. The one- and two-year survival rates were 100 and 88.9%, respectively. In up to five months' observation, no patient showed severe complications. Seven, four, and two patients had slight changes in their white blood cells, platelet count, or albumin-bilirubin grade, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: For patients with BCLC stage A4-B1, RFA and SBRT treatment for different multifocal HCCs may be a potential option because of the favorable prognosis and safety. However, before its application in clinical practice, prospective, controlled, large-scale studies are needed to further confirm our conclusions.

Selective fetal reduction in complicated monochorionic twin pregnancies: A comparison of techniques.

OBJECTIVE: To compare perinatal outcomes associated with three methods of selective reduction in complicated monochorionic (MC) twin pregnancies: bipolar cord coagulation (BC), fetoscopic or ultrasound guided laser cord occlusion and radiofrequency ablation (RFA). METHODS: Retrospective cohort study of complicated MC twin pregnancies undergoing selective fetal reduction at a tertiary fetal center over a 20-year period. Obstetric and perinatal outcomes were compared. RESULTS: 105 procedures met inclusion criteria: 74 RFAs, 17 lasers and 14 BCs. Procedure duration was significantly shorter for RFA (27.4 ± 15.8 minutes) compared to BC (91.7 ± 38.7 minutes) and laser (83.4 ± 40.4 minutes), P < .0001). The incidence of preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM) and co-twin demise did not differ between groups, however preterm delivery <34 weeks occurred less frequently following RFA (29.7%), compared to laser (64.7%) or BC (42.9%) (P = .02); delivery <37 weeks was also less frequent following RFA (45.9%), compared to laser (76.5%) or BC (78.6%)(P = .01). The difference in preterm birth<34 weeks between RFA and laser was maintained after adjusting for cord occlusion indication and amnionicity (OR 3.96, 95% CI 1.27-12.31). CONCLUSIONS: In our experience, RFA procedures were simpler, faster and associated with a lower risk of preterm delivery <34 and <37 weeks, compared to laser or BC.

Long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes of the pump twin in twin reversed arterial perfusion sequence treated by radiofrequency ablation.

OBJECTIVES: To assess long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes in children after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for twin reversed arterial perfusion (TRAP) sequence. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included children who underwent RFA for the TRAP sequence between 2012 and 2018. We assessed neurodevelopment in children using the Kinder Infant Development Scale, a validated questionnaire. The developmental quotient (DQ) assessed in nine subscales was calculated as the developmental age divided by the chronological age. Neurodevelopmental delay (NDD) was defined as a DQ of <70 points. RESULTS: In total, 38 children from 37 pregnancies underwent RFA for the TRAP sequence during the study period; 6 fetuses died in utero. We sent the questionnaire to the parents of the 32 surviving children and obtained answers for 27 (84%). The median age at the assessment was 2 years and 5 months old. The median total DQ was 111 (80-150). Most median DQs in the nine subscales were above 70. The incidence of NDD was 0% (0/27). There were no marked differences in DQ by chorionicity. CONCLUSIONS: Children who survived after RFA for TRAP sequence showed favorable long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes. Radiofrequency ablation seems to rarely affect fetal neurodevelopment. Pregnant women with TRAP sequence are encouraged to be treated by RFA.

Influence of indications on perinatal outcomes after radio frequency ablation in complicated monochorionic pregnancies: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is recommended to prevent potential neurological injury or intrauterine foetal death (IUFD) of the co-twin(s) in complicated monochorionic (MC) pregnancies. However, the impacts of various indications on the pregnancy outcome following RFA remain unclear. This study aimed to determine how the indications influence the perinatal outcomes in complicated MC pregnancies undergoing radiofrequency ablation. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study performed in a single centre. All consecutive MC pregnancies treated with RFA between July 2011 and July 2019 were included. The adverse perinatal outcomes and the survival rate were analysed based on various indications. The continuous variables with and without normal distribution were compared between the groups using Student's t-test and Mann-Whitney U test, respectively, and for categorical variables, Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used. P < 0.05 indicated a significant difference. RESULTS: We performed 272 RFA procedures in 268 complicated MC pregnancies, including 60 selective intrauterine growth restriction (sIUGR), 64 twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), 12 twin reversed arterial perfusion sequence (TRAPs), 66 foetal anomaly and 66 elective foetal reduction (EFR) cases. The overall survival rate of the co-twin was 201/272 (73.9%). The overall technical successful rate was determined at 201/263 (76.7%). The IUFD rate in the co-twin was 20/272 (7.4%). The TTTS group had recorded the lowest survival rate (37/64, 57. 8%), and the survival rate was significantly correlated with Quintero stages (P = 0.029). Moreover, the sIUGR III subgroup had a lower survival rate compared with sIUGR II (55.6%, versus 84.3%). The subgroup of foetal anomaly of gastroschisis or exomphalos had the highest IUFD rate (4/10, 40%), followed by sIUGR III (2/9, 22.2%) and dichorionic triamniotic (DCTA) subgroup (8/46, 17.9%). In EFR group, eight IUFD cases were all coming from the DCTA subgroup and received RFA before 17 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: The perinatal outcome of RFA was correlated with the indications, with the lowest survival rate in TTTS IV and the highest IUFD incidence in abdominal wall defect followed by sIUGR III. Elective RFA after 17 weeks may prevent IUFD in DCTA pregnancies.

Stereotactic body radiation therapy vs. radiofrequency ablation in Asian patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Few studies have been conducted to compare the efficacies of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Thus, in this multinational study, we compared the effectiveness of SBRT and RFA in patients with unresectable HCC. METHODS: The retrospective study cohort included 2,064 patients treated in 7 hospitals: 1,568 and 496 in the RFA and SBRT groups, respectively. More than half of the patients (56.5%) developed recurrent tumors, mainly after transarterial chemoembolization (44.8%). Propensity score matching was performed to adjust for clinical factors (n = 313 in each group). RESULTS: At baseline, the SBRT group had unfavorable clinical features compared to the RFA group, including BCLC stage (B-C 65% vs. 16%), tumor size (median 3.0 cm vs. 1.9 cm), and frequent history of liver-directed treatment (81% vs. 49%, all p <0.001). With a median follow-up of 27.7 months, the 3-year cumulative local recurrence rates in the SBRT and RFA groups were 21.2% and 27.9%, respectively (p <0.001). After adjusting for clinical factors, SBRT was related to a significantly lower risk of local recurrence than RFA in both the entire (hazard ratio [HR] 0.45, p <0.001) and matched (HR 0.36, p <0.001) cohorts. In subgroup analysis, SBRT was associated with superior local control in small tumors (≤3 cm) irrespective of location, large tumors located in the subphrenic region, and those that progressed after transarterial chemoembolization. Acute grade ≥3 toxicities occurred in 1.6% and 2.6% of the SBRT and RFA patients, respectively (p = 0.268). CONCLUSIONS: SBRT could be an effective alternative to RFA for unresectable HCC, particularly for larger tumors (>3 cm) in a subphrenic location and tumors that have progressed after transarterial chemoembolization. LAY SUMMARY: It is currently not known what the best treatment option is for patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. Here, we show that stereotactic body radiation therapy provides better local control than radiofrequency ablation, with comparable toxicities. Stereotactic body radiation therapy appears to be an effective alternative to radiofrequency ablation that should be considered when there is a higher risk of local recurrence or toxicity after radiofrequency ablation.

Management of benign prostatic hyperplasia in the 21st century: temporal trends in Australian population-based data.

OBJECTIVE: To examine national trends in the medical and surgical treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) using Australian Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) population data from 2000 to 2018. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Annual data was extracted from the MBS, PBS and Australian Institute of Health and Welfare databases for the years 2000-2018. Population-adjusted rates of BPH procedures and medical therapies were calculated and compared in relation to age. Cost analysis was performed to estimate financial burden due to BPH. RESULTS: Overall national hospital admissions due to BPH declined between 2000 and 2018, despite an increased proportion of admissions due to private procedures (42% vs 77%). Longitudinal trends in the medical management of BPH showed an increased prescription rate of dutasteride/tamsulosin combined therapy (111 vs 7649 per 100 000 men) and dutasteride monotherapy (149 vs 336 per 100 000 men) since their introduction to the PBS in 2011. Trends in BPH surgery showed an overall progressive increase in rate of total procedures between 2000 and 2018 (92 vs 133 per 100 000 men). Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) remained the most commonly performed surgical procedure, despite reduced utilisation since 2009 (118 vs 89 per 100 000 men), offset by a higher uptake of photoselective vaporisation of prostate, holmium:YAG laser enucleation of prostate, and later likely due to minimally invasive surgical therapies including prostatic urethral lift and ablative technologies (including Rezum™). Financial burden due to BPH surgery has remained steady since 2009, whilst the burden due to medical therapy has risen sharply. CONCLUSION: Despite reduced national BPH-related hospitalisations, overall treatment for BPH has increased due to medical therapy and surgical alternatives to TURP. Further exploration into motivators for particular therapies and effect of medical therapy on BPH progression in clinical practice outside of clinical trials is warranted.

Laparoscopic Radiofrequency Ablation of Uterine Leiomyomas: Clinical Outcomes during Early Adoption into Surgical Practice.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To assess surgical outcomes, clinical effectiveness, and gynecologist experience of introducing laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of leiomyomas into surgical practice. DESIGN: Uncontrolled clinical trial. SETTING: Five academic medical centers across California. PATIENTS: Premenopausal women with symptomatic uterine leiomyomas, uterus size ≤16 weeks size, and all leiomyomas ≤10 cm with no more than 6 total leiomyomas. INTERVENTIONS: Laparoscopic RFA of leiomyomas. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: We assessed intraoperative complications, blood loss, operative time, and adverse events. Gynecologists reported the operative difficulty and need for further training after each case. Participants reported leiomyoma symptoms preoperatively and at 6 and 12 weeks after surgery. We analyzed all outcome data from the first case performed by gynecologists with no previous RFA experience. Patient demand for RFA was high, but poor insurance authorization prevented 74% of eligible women from trial participation; 26 women underwent surgery and were enrolled. The mean age of the participants was 41.5 ± 4.9 years. The mean operating time was 153 ± 51 minutes, and mean estimated blood loss was 24 ± 40 cc. There were no intraoperative complications and no major adverse events. Menstrual bleeding, sexual function, and quality of life symptoms improved significantly from baseline to 12 weeks, with a 25 ± 18-point, or 47%, decrease in the Leiomyoma Symptom Severity Score. After the first procedure, the mean difficulty score was 6 (95% confidence interval [CI], 4-7.5) on a 10-point scale, and 89% of surgeons felt "very or somewhat" confident in performing laparoscopic RFA. The difficulty score decreased to 4.25 (95% CI, 1.2-6) after the fourth procedure, with all gynecologists reporting surgical confidence. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic RFA of leiomyomas can be introduced into surgical practice with good clinical outcomes for patients. Gynecologists with no previous experience are able to gain confidence and skill with the procedure in fewer than 5 cases.

A Prospective Intervention Trial on Tailored Radiofrequency Ablation of Uterine Myomas.

Background and Objective: Investigating the use of radiofrequency myolysis (RFM) for the treatment of fibroids through less invasive access by combining transvaginal ultrasound, hysteroscopy and laparoscopy. Materials and Methods: Fifty-four premenopausal women with 106 symptomatic uterine myomas. Patients underwent RFM in three ways: Vaginal Ultrasound-guided RFM (VU-RFM), Laparoscopic RFM (L-RFM) and Hysteroscopic-RFM (H-RFM). The mean patient age was 43 years; 52 symptomatic uterine myomas were subserosal, 44 intramural and 10 submucosal. The outcomes evaluated at 1 and 12 months after RFM were myoma size (volume-diameter), "Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Quality of Life (UFS-QOL)" questionnaire and a 10-point Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The therapy was completed with a single ablation in all patients, no complication was registered. The average number of fibroids treated per intervention was two with the use of different accesses: 64/106 VU-RFMs (60.4%), 32/106 L-RFMs (30.2%) and 10/106 H-RFMs (9.4%). Results: Volume and diameter of fibroids were significantly reduced by, respectively, 51.3% and 20.1% in the first 30 days post-intervention (p < 0.001) up to a maximum of 73.5% and 37.1% after the second follow-up visit at 12 months (p < 0.001). A similar trend was shown in terms of disability with a progressive and significant reduction of symptoms (menorrhagia, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia and pollakiuria) demonstrated by percentage variation of UFS-QOL Symptom Severity and VAS scores to -74.3% and -45.3% as well as -84.9% and -74.3%, respectively, at 1 and 12 months after RFM (p < 0.001). An overall improvement in the quality of life was also demonstrated by a significant increase in the UFS-QOL total score of +38.2% in the first 30 days post-intervention up to +44.9% after the second follow-up visit at 12 months (p < 0.001). The overall average surgery time of the RFM for each patient was 48 minutes, and the time to treat each fibroid by Vaginal Ultrasound-guided RFM (23 min) was found to be significantly less than those of laparoscopy or hysteroscopy (respectively 35 and 34 min) (p < 0.05). An electromagnetic virtual needle tracking system (VNTS) was successfully tested during the RFM procedures, and real-time contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has proven to be effective in determining the duration of myolysis through the identification of eventual residual areas of enhancement within the fibroids. Conclusion: Radiofrequency can be considered a minimally invasive and safe procedure for the treatment of uterine myomas through the customization and possible combination of transvaginal, laparoscopic or hysteroscopic accesses. The standardization of the ablation technique with pre-intervention biopsy and new technologies such as VNTS and CEUS spares healthy uterine tissue and may change the future management of symptomatic uterine fibroids.

Disparities in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma based on geographical region are decreasing.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Geographic differences have existed in the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and efforts to reduce regional disparities have been initiated. The aim of this study is to use the Nationwide Inpatient Sample to determine if regional disparities in the treatment of HCC continue to exist. METHOD: A retrospective database analysis using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample was performed that included patients with a primary diagnosis of HCC. Logistic regression models were utilized to determine geographic disparities in liver decompensation, treatment, inpatient mortality, and metastatic disease. RESULTS: This study's locational reach of 62 604 patients included 22 769 patients from the South (36%), 14 554 in the Northeast (23%), 14 041 in the West (22%), and 11 240 in the Midwest (18%). Patients who received treatment in the West were more likely to have inpatient mortality (OR 1.28, 95% CI 1.03, 1.53) than patients who received treatment in the Midwest. No significant differences were observed between rates of resection, ablation, and transarterial chemoembolization when comparing by region. Rates of liver transplantation were lower in the West compared with the Midwest (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.29, 0.87). There was no significant difference between other regions. CONCLUSION: Geographic disparities in the treatment of HCC are improving.

Quality of Life, Adverse Events, and Reintervention Outcomes after Laparoscopic Radiofrequency Ablation for Symptomatic Uterine Fibroids: A Meta-Analysis.

In this review, we assessed the short-term (3 and 6 months) and long-term (12, 24, and 36 months) symptom relief and quality of life improvement, procedure-related adverse event rate, reintervention rate, and days missed from work after laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation. Using MeSH keywords "uterine fibroid" and "ablation technique," a systematic search was performed in PubMed, Ovid, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Clinicaltrials.gov. Studies consisting of uterine fibroid symptoms and quality of life scores were considered eligible. Both comparative and noncomparative studies were included. Using a random-effects model, a meta-analysis was performed. Eight studies with a total of 581 patients were finally included in our review. Based on validated questionnaires, quality of life improved significantly until 36 months after laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation therapy, with a maximum improvement (Health-Related Quality of Life [HRQL] questionnaire score of +41.64 [95% confidence interval (CI), 38.94-44.34] and a transformed Symptom Severity Score [tSSS] of -39.37 [95% CI, 34.70-44.04]) at 12 months after laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation. All subscales of quality of life improved significantly, and most of the changes remained stable in long-term follow-up. The overall reintervention rate was 4.39% (95% CI, 1.60%-8.45%), and the median uterine volume reduction was 69.17 cm³ (95% CI, 35.87-102.46 cm³).The overall procedure-related adverse events rate was 1.78% (95% CI, 0.62%-3.53%), and patients missed an average of 4.35 days (95% CI, 2.55-6.15 days) of work. In conclusion, laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation therapy is an efficacious way to treat small-sized and nonpedunculated symptomatic uterine fibroids, providing stable long-term symptom relief and quality of life improvement with a low risk of adverse events and reintervention and just a few days of missed work.

Selection of treatment for hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma: a single-center experience.

BACKGROUND: Hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (HEHE) is a rare angiogenic tumor with no recognized effective treatment. Treatment options used worldwide include liver transplantation (LT), liver resection (LR), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), chemotherapy, and observation. The aim of this study was to describe the efficacy of different treatment options used for HEHE at our center. METHODS: The medical charts of 12 patients with HEHE (9 women and 3 men) who were diagnosed and treated at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, China, between January 2011 and December 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: The patients were diagnosed by postoperative histopathology or fine needle aspiration biopsy. Two patients with diffuse lesions received LT and were alive without recurrence at the last follow-up. Three patients received LR as the initial treatment, and all of them developed recurrence during the follow-up period. One patient received RFA and remained free of disease, while the remaining six patients opted for simple observation rather than treatment. One of the patients who received LR passed away because of tumor recurrence within 32 months after surgery; the other patients showed no significant disease activity after treatments for their recurrent lesions. As of April 2018, the mean follow-up duration was 39.6 ± 20.1 months (15-82 months). CONCLUSIONS: There are multiple strategies for HEHE. Considering its indolent course, initial observation for assessment of the lesion behavior may aid in the selection of appropriate treatment. Surgery or LT is suitable for patients with disease progression during the observation period. However, our sample size was small, and further studies are required to gather more information that can aid in optimal treatment selection.

The effectiveness of RENAL nephrometry score in ablated renal tumors via radiofrequency ablation or cryoablation

Background/aim: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and cryotherapy and to scrutinize the therapeutic success of the RENAL (radius, exophytic/endophytic, nearness to collecting system, anterior/posterior, and location) nephrometry score in terms of possible complications and the predictive status of oncological results. Materials and methods: Forty-five patients with biopsy-proven renal cell carcinomas (32 males, 13 females) treated with RFA and cryotherapy were included. Patients were 22­90 years old (average: 59.2 years). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS for Windows. Results: A total of 79 lesions with dimensions varying between 0.9 and 4.5 cm (average: 2.2 cm) were ablated. Complete ablation was achieved for 72 (91.1%) lesions. Six repeat RFA sessions were applied for 4 (5%) lesions with residue/recurrence. The average RENAL nephrometry scores of lesions that underwent complete ablation and those that developed residue/recurrence were 6.3 and 7.7, respectively. The average recurrence-free survival time was 34.8 months (range: 3­55 months), while it was 44.6 months (range: 6­55 months) for cryotherapy and 28.6 months (range: 3­50 months) for RFA. Conclusion: Ablative therapies are minimally invasive and effective methods for treating small renal tumors. RENAL nephrometry scoring is a valuable system for standardizing renal tumors and evaluating the success of ablative therapies, possible complications, and oncological results.

Overcoming difficulties with equipoise to enable recruitment to a randomised controlled trial of partial ablation vs radical prostatectomy for unilateral localised prostate cancer.

OBJECTIVE: To describe how clinicians conceptualised equipoise in the PART (Partial prostate Ablation vs Radical prosTatectomy in intermediate-risk unilateral clinically localised prostate cancer) feasibility study and how this affected recruitment. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: PART included a QuinteT Recruitment Intervention (QRI) to optimise recruitment. Phase I aimed to understand recruitment, and included: scrutinising recruitment data, interviewing the trial management group and recruiters (n = 13), and audio-recording recruitment consultations (n = 64). Data were analysed using qualitative content and thematic analysis methods. In Phase II, strategies to improve recruitment were developed and delivered. RESULTS: Initially many recruiters found it difficult to maintain a position of equipoise and held preconceptions about which treatment was best for particular patients. They did not feel comfortable about approaching all eligible patients, and when the study was discussed, biases were conveyed through the use of terminology, poorly balanced information, and direct treatment recommendations. Individual and group feedback led to presentations to patients becoming clearer and enabled recruiters to reconsider their sense of equipoise. Although the precise impact of the QRI alone cannot be determined, recruitment increased (from a mean [range] of 1.4 [0-4] to 4.5 [0-12] patients/month) and the feasibility study reached its recruitment target. CONCLUSION: Although clinicians find it challenging to recruit patients to a trial comparing different contemporary treatments for prostate cancer, training and support can enable recruiters to become more comfortable with conveying equipoise and providing clearer information to patients.

Is radiofrequency ablation of varicose veins a valuable option? A systematic review of the literature with a cost analysis.

BACKGROUND: Since the 1990s, new techniques for the treatment of varicose veins have emerged, including radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and laser treatment. We performed a study to compare the safety, efficacy and outcomes of RFA compared to those of open surgery and laser ablation for the treatment of varicose veins. We also carried out a cost analysis of RFA compared to open surgery to assess whether RFA could help free up operating room time by being performed in an outpatient context. METHODS: We conducted a systematic literature review (publication date May 2010-September 2013 for articles in English, January 1991-September 2013 for those in French). We used several checklists to measure the quality of the studies. We also collected data on costing. RESULTS: The literature search identified 924 publications, of which 38 were retained for analysis: 15 literature reviews, 1 good-practice guideline and 22 new primary studies. The overall level of evidence was low to moderate owing to the limited sample sizes, lack of information on patient characteristics and lack of standardization of the outcome measures. However, the results obtained are consistent from study to study. In the short and medium term, RFA is considered as effective as open surgery or laser treatment (moderate level of evidence) and presents fewer major and minor complications than open surgery (low level of evidence). Radiofrequency ablation can be performed on an outpatient basis. We calculated that RFA would be about $110-$220 more expensive per patient than open surgery. CONCLUSION: Radiofrequency ablation is a valuable alternative to open surgery and would free up operating room time in a context of low accessibility.

CONTEXTE: Depuis les années 1990, de nouvelles techniques pour le traitement des varices ont émergé, y compris l'ablation par radiofréquence (ARF) et le traitement au laser. Nous avons procédé à une étude afin de comparer l'innocuité, l'efficacité et les résultats de l'ARF à ceux de la chirurgie ouverte et de l'ablation par laser pour le traitement des varices. Nous avons aussi procédé à une analyse des coûts de l'ARF comparativement à la chirurgie pour vérifier si, en étant effectuée en consultation externe, l'ARF permet de libérer du temps de bloc opératoire. MÉTHODES: Nous avons réalisé une revue systématique de la documentation (articles publiés entre mai 2010 et septembre 2013 en langue anglaise, et entre janvier 1991 et septembre 2013 en langue française). Nous avons utilisé plusieurs séries de critères pour mesurer la qualité des études. Nous avons aussi recueilli des données sur l'estimation des coûts. RÉSULTATS: La recherche documentaire a permis de recenser 924 publications, dont 38 ont été retenues pour analyse : 15 examens documentaires, 1 directive de pratique optimale et 22 études principales. Le niveau de preuve global a été jugé de faible à modéré en raison de la taille limitée des échantillons, du manque d'information sur les caractéristiques des patients et de l'absence de normalisation des mesures paramétriques. Toutefois, les résultats obtenus concordent d'une étude à l'autre. À court et à moyen terme, l'ARF est considérée aussi efficace que la chirurgie ouverte ou que le traitement au laser (niveau de preuve modéré) et s'accompagne de moins de complications majeures et mineures que la chirurgie ouverte (faible niveau de preuve). L'ablation par radiofréquence peut être effectuée en consultation externe. Nous avons calculé que l'ARF couterait environ 110 à 220 $ de plus par patient comparativement à la chirurgie. CONCLUSION: L'ablation par radiofréquence est une solution de rechange valable à la chirurgie ouverte et pourrait libérer du temps de bloc opératoire dans un contexte d'accès restreint.

Global research progress on radiofrequency ablation in cardiology: A bibliometric analysis (2004-2023).

In recent years, significant advancements in radiofrequency ablation technology have notably enhanced arrhythmia treatment in cardiology. Technological advancements and increasing clinical adoption have made radiofrequency ablation a key therapy in improving life quality for patients with conditions like atrial fibrillation (AF). Consequently, there has been a marked increase in research output, underscoring the technology's significance and its potential in cardiology. Aims to comprehensively analyze cardiology's radiofrequency ablation research trends, identifying leading countries and institutions in international collaborations, key researchers' contributions, and evolving research hotspots. The study, based on the Web of Science Core Collection database, reviewed the literatures from 2004 to 2023. CiteSpace 6.2.R7 Basic was used for bibliometric analysis, which examined annual publication trends, international collaboration networks, key authors, leading research institutions, major journals, keyword co-occurrence and clustering trends. Analyzing 3423 relevant articles, this study reveals a consistent growth in cardiology radiofrequency ablation research since 2004. The analysis shows that the United States, Germany, and France hold central roles in the international collaboration network, with leading authors from premier US and European institutions. Keyword cluster analysis identifies "atrial flutter" and "ventricular tachycardia" as current research focal points. Cardiology radiofrequency ablation research shows a growth trend, led by the United States and European countries. Research hotspots are concentrated on the diverse applications of radiofrequency ablation technology and the treatment of AF. Future studies may increasingly focus on technological innovation and the deepening of clinical applications.

Outcomes of radiofrequency ablation for liver tumors in patients on hemodialysis: Results from the US Nationwide Inpatient Sample 2005-2020.

OBJECTIVE: Few studies have examined the outcomes of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for liver tumors in patients on hemodialysis. This study aimed to investigate short-term outcomes following RFA for liver tumors in patients on hemodialysis. METHODS: Data of patients ≥ 20 years old diagnosed with liver tumors who underwent RFA were extracted from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database 2005-2020. The study population was divided into two groups: patients on hemodialysis and those not on hemodialysis. Propensity score matching (PSM) was employed to address baseline differences. Associations between hemodialysis and in-hospital outcomes, including prolonged length of stay (LOS), in-hospital mortality, unfavorable discharge, and complications were determined using logistic regression analyses. RESULTS: After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 12,749 patients constituted the study population, with 550 remaining after 1:4 PSM (110 on hemodialysis and 440 without hemodialysis). After adjustment in the multivariable analyses, patients on maintenance hemodialysis showed significantly higher risks of prolonged LOS (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.88, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 1.78-4.65), in-hospital mortality (aOR=31.90, 95 % CI: 17.68-57.58), unfavorable discharge (aOR=3.79, 95 % CI: 2.05-7.01), at least one complications (aOR=3.68, 95 % CI: 2.49-5.44), and greater total hospital costs (adjusted Beta [aBeta] = 126.75, 95 % CI: 113.68-139.82). CONCLUSIONS: Patients on hemodialysis undergoing RFA for liver tumors have greater risks of adverse short-term outcomes including in-hospital mortality, prolonged LOS, complications, and unfavorable discharge. Careful consideration and close monitoring are warranted for patients on hemodialysis when planning for RFA.3.

Implications of radiofrequency ablation in patients undergoing thyroid surgery for benign disease in the United States.

BACKGROUND: Radiofrequency ablation is an alternative strategy for the management of benign thyroid conditions. We analyzed the proportion of patients who underwent thyroid surgery for benign conditions who would be potentially eligible for radiofrequency ablation. METHODS: We identified patients who underwent thyroid surgery from 2015 to 2019 at the study institution for Bethesda II cytopathology or toxic adenoma. Patients were considered potentially eligible for radiofrequency ablation if they had a dominant nodule >2 cm with or without compression symptoms, a dominant nodule <2 cm with compression symptoms, or a toxic adenoma. RESULTS: Of 411 patients in total, 284 (69.1%) would be eligible to consider thyroid radiofrequency ablation. In the radiofrequency ablation-eligible group, 20 (7.0%) experienced voice change after surgery, and 2 (0.7%) were dissatisfied or concerned about their scar. In the radiofrequency ablation-eligible group, 70 patients (24.6%) had malignancy diagnosed by final pathology, and 23 patients (8.1%) had cancers that were equal to or larger than 1 cm in size. CONCLUSION: Many patients who undergo surgery for benign thyroid disease could be considered for radiofrequency ablation as an alternative treatment modality. Given the rate of occult malignancy, optimal evaluation of nondominant nodules before radiofrequency ablation and long-term thyroid surveillance for patients who undergo radiofrequency ablation should be further studied.

Utility of unilateral versus bilateral venous reflux studies for venous insufficiency.

OBJECTIVE: Duplex ultrasonography is the reference standard for diagnosing chronic venous insufficiency. Bilateral venous reflux ultrasound studies are among the most time-consuming and physically demanding tests for vascular ultrasound technologists to perform. Furthermore, if a venous procedure is required, many insurance policies require that a diagnostic venous ultrasound scan for reflux must be performed within 1 year of the procedure. If the intervention is scheduled for >1 year after the ultrasound scan, the insurance company might require a repeat venous ultrasound scan before granting insurance authorization. Hence, ordering bilateral venous duplex ultrasound scans to evaluate for reflux when an intervention might only be performed on one limb within the year could be a waste of time and resources. The aim of the present study was to determine the utility of ordering bilateral vs unilateral studies to evaluate for reflux in patients with suspected chronic venous insufficiency and to determine whether a resource-saving potential exists for vascular laboratories through optimization of the process of ordering venous duplex ultrasound studies. METHODS: A retrospective review of all patients who had undergone bilateral lower extremity ultrasound scanning to evaluate for reflux from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2016 at the Massachusetts General Hospital vascular laboratory was performed. The demographics, indications for ultrasound scanning, comorbidities, time required to perform the ultrasound study, and interval to intervention were documented. The data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software (IBM Corp, Armonk, NY). RESULTS: During the study period, 13,854 ultrasound studies had been performed in our vascular laboratory, of which 606 (4.4%) had been bilateral ultrasound scans for venous insufficiency. The time allotted for a bilateral study was 2 hours. Of the 606 studies evaluated, 152 (25.1%) showed no evidence of reflux, 284 (46.9%) showed bilateral lower extremity reflux, and 170 (28.1%) showed only venous insufficiency in one leg. Venous ablation, phlebectomy, and/or sclerotherapy were performed for 28.7% of the patients. However only 6.2% of patients had undergone venous procedures on both legs within 1 year after the ultrasound studies. Ablation was the most common procedure performed (54.6%), followed by phlebectomy (27.%) and sclerotherapy (17.9%). Overall, 94.7% of patients had not undergone a venous procedure on both legs within 1 year after the ultrasound studies and, hence, would have required a repeat duplex ultrasound scan to ensure insurance coverage for future procedures. CONCLUSIONS: Most bilateral ultrasound scans for venous insufficiency will not result in an intervention. Thus, most patients (95%) could have undergone a unilateral scan before the initial intervention instead of bilateral duplex ultrasound scanning.

Long-term Outcomes of Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization Combined With Radiofrequency Ablation as an Initial Treatment for Early-Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Importance: The long-term outcomes of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) combined with radiofrequency ablation (RFA) are not determined. Objective: To report the long-term outcomes of TACE-RFA. Design, Setting, and Participants: This cohort study analyzed long-term follow-up data from a phase 3 randomized clinical trial of adults with early HCC conducted from October 2006 to June 2009. Participants were randomly assigned to the TACE-RFA group or the RFA group in a 1:1 ratio and followed up approximately 6 years after the trial was closed. Data analysis was performed March 2020. Exposure: In the TACE-RFA group, TACE was performed first, and RFA was done 2 weeks later. Main Outcomes and Measures: Overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS). Results: Of 189 patients who were included (mean [SD] age, 54.3 [12.0] years; 146 [77.2%] men), 94 and 95 patients were assigned to the TACE-RFA group and RFA group, respectively, with their baseline characteristics well matched. Three patients in each group were lost to follow-up. The 5-year and 7-year OS rates for the TACE-RFA group vs the RFA group were 52.0% and 36.4% vs 43.2% and 19.4%, respectively (hazard ratio [HR], 0.55; 95% CI, 0.39-0.78; P = .001). The 5-year and 7-year RFS rates for the TACE-RFA group vs the RFA group were 41.4% and 34.5% vs 27.4% and 18.1%, respectively (HR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.49-0.89; P = .007). On subgroup analysis comparing patients who had tumors larger than 3 cm with those who had tumors 3 cm or smaller, the OS and RFS survival rates in the TACE-RFA group (HR, 3.20; 95% CI, 1.91-5.35, P < .001) were significantly better than those in the RFA group (HR, 2.03; 95% CI, 1.30-3.17; P = .002). Conclusions and Relevance: In this cohort study, combined RFA and TACE was associated with better survival than RFA alone on long-term follow-up. Patients with tumors 3 cm or smaller did not benefit as well as patients with tumors larger than 3 cm from the combined treatment.