OBJECTIVETo explore the efficacy of hyperthermal lipiodol embolization and thermocoagulation for the treatment of primary hepatocellular carcinoma.

METHODSOne hundred and thirty-one cases were randomized into two groups: the hyperthermal dilute lipiodol embolization group (63 cases) and the chemoembolization group (68 cases). With Seldinger's method, We first placed the catheter to the targeting vessel superselectively and then put the hyperthermal dilute lipiodol (110 degrees C) 10~30ml to the tumor vessels to IV degree for the former group; gave the lipiodol-epirubicin emulsion by the same way to the latter group.

RESULTSThe rate of tumor minification and AFP normalization in the hyperthermal lipiodol embolization group was higher than that in the lipiodol-epirubicin embolization group. The side effects and the liver damage were mild in the former group. The survival time of the patients in the former group was longer than that in the latter group.

CONCLUSIONSEmbolization of the tumor vessels with hyperthermal dilute lipiodol is more thorough due to its better fluidity. The thermocoagulation of the hyperthermal dilute lipiodol becomes stronger for its higher specific heat. It is therefore a good technique for the treatment of primary hepatocellular carcinoma.

Carcinoma, Hepatocellular ; therapy ; Contrast Media ; Electrocoagulation ; Embolization, Therapeutic ; Humans ; Iodized Oil ; Liver Function Tests ; Liver Neoplasms ; therapy ; Treatment Outcome