Shall we take a second thought before applying radiofrequency ablation for resectable HCC ≤2 cm?

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a disease with poor survival rates unless recognized andtreated early, ranks as the fifth most common cancer worldwide. Previous researches has led some authors tochoose radiofrequency ablation (RFA) as the primary treatment even the tumor is resectable. Dr. Roayaie’sstudy retrospectively analyzed the surgical outcome of HCC ≤2 cm. The results obtained in the studiesindicate that anatomic resection may achieve better survival for patients with well-preserved liver function,and without liver cirrhosis. This research also revealed the presence of satellite lesions and microvascularinvasion were evident in such early tumors, as the benefit of anatomic resection is unique and cannot beduplicated by ablation. Further RCTs with large sample sizes and long-term follow-up are still required toclarify which should be the best treatment of choice.