A review on treatments of hepatocellular carcinoma—role of radio wave ablation and possible improvements

Abstract

Abstract Background Currently, several treatment options are available for liver cancer depending on various factors such as location, size, shape, and liver function. Image fusion is required for the diagnosis, intervention, and follow-up of certain HCCs. Presently, mental fusion is the only way while diagnosing liver lesions by comparing the ultrasound (US) image with the computed tomography (CT) image. Nevertheless, mental fusion is bound to have errors. The objective of this paper is to study the present treatment options for hepatocellular carcinoma and review the present treatment options, list out their potential limitations, and present a possible alternative solution based on the findings to reduce errors and mistargeting. Methods This is a systematic review on the present treatment options for hepatocellular carcinoma, especially radio wave ablation. Results It is found that computer fusion is the possible alternative to the present mental registration. Conclusions Although computer fusion is the best alternative to use radio wave ablation, there have been a few open-ended questions to further explore.

Keywords

• Liver
• US
• CT
• Hepatocellular carcinoma
• Image fusion