HIFU for the treatment of gastric cancer with liver metastases with unsuitable indications for hepatectomy and radiofrequency ablation: a prospective and propensity score-matched study

Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to explore the efficacy and safety high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) in gastric cancer with liver metastasis (GCLM) patients who were contraindicated for either hepatectomy or radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Methods This is a prospective, observational on GCLM 1–3 metastases. primary lesions thoroughly resected any case that exhibited extra-hepatic excluded. A 1:2:2 propensity score-matching analysis performed using logistic regression model HIFU group, best supportive care (BSC) palliative chemotherapy (PC) group. endpoints include progression-free survival (PFS) overall (OS). Results Forty finally included, there 8 cases 16 BSC PC median follow-up time entire cohort 10 months. PFS 16.5 months 2 5 OS 27.5 7 11.5 Additionally, no grade 3 higher adverse events occurred Conclusion results showed treatment could improve long-term prognosis without significant increase occurrence events. Compared BSC, preferred option when are unable undergo surgery RFA.