Interventional procedure overview of image-guided percutaneous laser ablation of primary and secondary liver tumours

Unmet need

People with early-stage liver cancer usually have surgery to remove the tumour. People with more advanced liver cancer are more likely to be offered chemotherapy. Other treatments include chemoembolisation, radioembolisation and targeted therapy drugs. There are several types of local ablation techniques, which can be used to treat small tumours. Image-guided percutaneous laser ablation may be an option when surgery is unsuitable. It can be done without a general anaesthetic and uses thinner needles than microwave ablation and RFA. Its localised action means it can be used for tumours that are close to structures at risk. It may also be a bridging option for people waiting for a liver transplant.