Surgical resection versus ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma ≤ 3 cm: a population-based analysis.

Background: Ablation for ≤ 3-cm hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been demonstrated to be an effective treatment strategy. The present study sought to examine the outcomes of patients with ≤3 cm HCC after ablation versus resection.

Methods: Patients treated by ablation or surgical resection for ≤ 3 cm T1 HCC were identified from the National Cancer Database (2002-2011). Survival outcomes were analysed according to propensity score modelling.

Results: A total of 2804 patients underwent ablation (n = 1984) or a resection (n = 820) for solitary HCC ≤ 3 cm. Patients treated with ablation as compared with a resection had a higher frequency in alpha-fetoprotein level (AFP) elevation (46.5% versus 39.1%, P < 0.01) and the presence of cirrhosis (22.2% versus 14.5%, P < 0.01). Unadjusted overall survival (OS) at 3 and 5 years was greater after a resection (67%, 55%) versus ablation (52%, 36%, P < 0.01). After propensity score matching, the improved overall survival (OS) was sustained among the resection cohort (5 year OS: 54% versus 37%, P < 0.001). In multivariable models, a resection was independently associated with an improved OS [hazard ratio (HR): 0.62, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.48-0.81; P < 0.01].

Conclusion: Resection of HCC ≤ 3 cm results in better long-term survival as compared with ablation. Treatment strategies for small solitary HCC should emphasize a resection first approach, with ablation being reserved for patients precluded from surgery.