Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a consequence of liver cirrhosis. In early tumour stages, tumour resection or liver transplantation are therapeutic options; later tumour stages may be treated with locally ablative treatments such as percutaneous ethanol instillation (PEI), transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) or radio-frequency thermoablation. This randomized study investigates the effect of PEI on survival of patients with HCC. All patients will receive hormonal treatment (long-acting somatostatin intramuscularly [i.m.]) and will be randomized for treatment with PEI or no additional treatment.

This is a randomized two-arm parallel group study.

• Study group: PEI + long-acting somatostatin
• Control group: long-acting somatostatin alone

Aims of the study:

• Does treatment with PEI+ long-acting somatostatin prolong survival as compared to treatment with long-acting somatostatin alone?
• Can time to tumour progression be extended in patients treated with PEI + long-acting somatostatin as compared to treatment with long-acting somatostatin alone?

Inclusion Criteria:

• Histologically-proven hepatocellular carcinoma
• Treatable with percutaneous ethanol instillation
• Inoperable tumour
• Age 18-85 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• Liver cirrhosis Child C
• Tumour diameter > 8 cm