Immunological Response After Ablative Therapy in the Liver

Comparison of Immunological Response After Microwave Ablation and Irreversible Electroporation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Local ablative treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma is performed primary on patients not eligible for liver transplant or liver resection. At our Hospital two different methods are used: Microwave ablation, where the tumor cells are heated up and killed, and Irreversible electroporation, where the tumor cells are exposed to an electrical field and nano-pores are formed in the cell membranes and the cells go into apoptosis (programed cell death).

Previous studies have shown effects on the immune system after ablative therapies.

The purpose of this study is to compare the immunological response after the wo different methods of killing the tumor cells.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma, maximum 3 lesions, maximum 30 mm in any cross section diameter
• Physically fit to undergo general anaesthesia
• Fully understand swedish instructions regarding the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Atrial fibrillation (for irreversible electroporation)
• Pacemaker (for irreversible electroporation)
• >3 lesions
• > 30 mm in any cross section diameter