I. What is microwave ablation technology for liver cancer?
Microwave ablation technique for liver cancer is one of the minimally invasive ablation techniques for tumors. The specific treatment method is to puncture the microwave antenna (microwave needle) percutaneously to the tumor site under the guidance of B-ultrasound or CT, and start the microwave therapy instrument to make the polar molecules inside the tumor, such as water molecules and protein molecules, to have high-frequency repeated turning movements. The tumor dies rapidly, and the tumor cells can be inactivated instantly at 60℃.
What are the advantages of microwave ablation therapy for liver cancer?
1.Minimally invasive
Compared with traditional surgery, minimally invasive tumor ablation treatment technology (microwave, radiofrequency, etc.) has the characteristics of minimally invasive, less painful and high safety, fast recovery from surgery, and you can get out of bed the day after surgery without surgical scars.
2. High efficiency
For Q5cm tumor, there is a lot of evidence at home and abroad proving that the effectiveness and overall survival rate of minimally invasive ablative tumor treatment technology are consistent with the results compared with traditional surgery.
3.Precision
Microwave ablation treatment technology for liver cancer is guided by imaging technology (B ultrasound, CT) and uses microwave antenna to ablate tumor, which has the characteristics of precise location and in situ inactivation, just like missiles in military field with precise guidance, and can strike military targets precisely.
4.Repeatability
Generally speaking, few tumor patients can receive another operation after recurrence after surgery, which is related to patients’ willingness, difficulty and high risk of another operation, while minimally invasive tumor ablation technology has the characteristics of repeatable and multiple treatments, which patients and doctors are more willing to accept, and another operation may still achieve the goal of complete ablation of tumor.
5.Wide range of indications
For multiple lesions that cannot be removed by surgery, minimally invasive ablation therapy can inactivate tumors one by one, which brings hope to tumor patients.
Which patients are suitable for liver cancer microwave ablation treatment?
1.Indications for primary liver cancer.
(1) For single or multiple (Q5) tumors with Q5cm diameter, no vascular, bile duct or distant metastasis, early liver cancer with liver function Child-Pugh grade A or B, microwave or radiofrequency ablation is the best choice other than surgery.
(2) For small hepatocellular carcinoma with single tumor diameter Q3cm, ablation can mostly obtain radical ablation.
(3) The distance of the tumor from the common hepatic duct in the hilar region and the left and right hepatic ducts should be at least 5 mm.
(4) For multiple lesions or larger tumors (R5cm in diameter), hepatic artery chemoembolization (TACE or TAE) combined with microwave ablation therapy can be adopted according to the liver function.
2.Indications for metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma.
The indications for microwave ablation of metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma are basically the same as those of primary hepatocellular carcinoma, but there are several differences.
(1) Most of the metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma is not accompanied by liver cirrhosis, and the liver function is better. If the tumor is larger or more in number, the ablation plan can be adopted in stages.
(2) Metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma is generally established on the basis that the primary lesion has been cured or controlled. However, for cases where the primary lesion is better controlled and the expected survival time is more than 6 months, microwave ablation can also be performed. Better local control and minimization of tumor load will certainly bring better quality of life and longer survival period.
IV. What tests are required before microwave ablation for liver cancer?
Although microwave ablation for liver cancer is a minimally invasive technology, its invasiveness and complications are much lower than those of surgical treatment, but it also has certain indications and contraindications, so the evaluation before microwave ablation is very important. This includes the evaluation of the general condition of the body such as routine blood, liver and kidney function, coagulation index, and recent liver CT and MRI examinations. Pre-operative meticulous evaluation will certainly provide a strong guarantee for the safety and effectiveness of the surgery.
V. What are the precautions after microwave ablation surgery for liver cancer?
Within one week after microwave ablation for liver cancer, it is advisable to have a light diet and eat some vegetables and fruits appropriately. You should not engage in strenuous activities, and keep your emotions relaxed and optimistic. The belief of overcoming the disease will be conducive to the recovery of the disease. In addition, regular follow-up is very important for early detection and timely treatment.