Survival impact of C-Arm cone-beam computed tomography on hepatocellular carcinoma patients undergoing chemoembolization

Abstract

Objectives: The objectives of the study were to evaluate the use of C-arm cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) for tumor targeting for transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and its impact on overall survival (OS) in hepatocellular carcinoma patients. Material and Methods: Two groups were retrospectively evaluated according to the date of the first TACE session before and after C-arm CBCT installation in late 2005 (group A [n = 34], 2004–2005; group B [n = 104], 2008+). The years 2006 and 2007 were excluded to allow for the incorporation of this new imaging technology into clinical practice. The vessel selection order was recorded for all TACE sessions. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess the impact on and predictors of survival. Results: The average TACE selection order for each patient was significantly higher in group B than in group A (P < 0.0001). The median OS was significantly longer in group B (29.34 months) than in group A (19.65 months; P = 0.0088), and the difference in duration was most pronounced in patients with tumor burdens < 25% (n = 93; P = 0.0075), in whom the 3-year survival rate was 56.1% in group B and 15.3% in group A. In these 93 patients, the OS was significant longer (P = 0.018) for high (41.07 months) versus low (19.65 months) vessel selection order across both groups. In multivariate analyses, both the period in which TACE was performed (P = 0.022) and the use of C-arm CBCT (P = 0.0075) were significant predictors of improved OS. Conclusion: Use of advanced C-arm CBCT during TACE enhances the operating physician’s ability to deliver targeted, effective therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma, an aggressive approach that favorably impacts survival.