Complications of radiofrequency coagulation of liver tumours

Radiofrequency coagulation (RFC) is being promoted as a novel technique with a low morbidity rate in the treatment of liver tumours. The purpose of this study was to assess critically the complication rates of RFC in centres with both large and limited initial experience, and to establish causes and possible means of prevention and treatment.

This is an exhaustive review of the world literature (articles and abstracts) up to 31 December 2001; 82 independent reports of RFC of liver tumours were analysed.