Abstract

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) inducing of coagulation necrosis by using thermal energy via electrodes placed within the tissue effectively controls hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). RFA has been commonly applied as an alternative curative therapy to surgical resection for small HCC due to effective local tumor control. Although the technique is considered relatively safe, several major complications requiring hospitalization for treatment have been reported such as vascular thrombosis, pneumothorax, pleural effusion, skin burn, hematoma, liver abscess and colon perforation. Most complications occur due to thermal injuries to adjacent structures by RFA. The risk of bowel perforation has been observed only when the target lesion is adjacent to a gastrointestinal lumen, but, mechanical obstruction is extremely rare. Therefore, we report a case of mechanical obstruction after transaction of ileum secondary to RFA of HCC.

• Keywords: Hepatocellular carcinoma;Radiofrequency ablation;Complication