Interstitial laser thermotherapy for liver tumours

Abstract

Background: Primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and metastases from colorectal cancer are the most common malignant liver tumours. Surgical resection is the optimum treatment in suitable patients. Interstitial laser thermotherapy (ILT) is gaining acceptance for the treatment of irresectable liver tumours and as a potential alternative to surgery. An understanding of the principles of therapy and review of clinical outcomes may allow better use of this technology. Method: An electronic search using the Medline database was performed for studies on the treatment of hepatic malignancy published between January 1983 and February 2003. Results: Current information on the efficacy of ILT is bas..