Variability of Microwave Ablation Volume Based on Clinical, Radiological, Biological, and Tissue Factors : a Retrospective Study
Microwave ablation is a minimally invasive technique whose planning relies on manufacturer tables derived from ex vivo models that do not account for patient or tumor-specific factors. In clinical practice, the actual ablation volume often differs from the planned volume due to liver characteristics, vascular proximity, and tumor biology. This study aims to assess the variability between ablation small axis during percutaneous microwave ablation of liver lesions. The influence of patient-related (fibrosis, steatosis, portal flow) and tumor-related factors (location, histology, prior treatment) will be evaluated. Small axis and volume will be compared with volumes measured on immediate post-procedural CT and on CT/MRI at 6-12 weeks, accounting for expected tissue shrinkage.
• Adult patients
• Treated with percutaneous hepatic microwave ablation under CT or ultrasound guidance
• Adult treated for one or more liver lesions
• Patients with available follow-up imaging