Comparison of two microwave ablation techniques for liver cancer

A Single-center, Prospective Randomized Controlled Study of Microwave Spherical Ablation and Traditional Microwave Ablation in the Treatment of Single Hepatocellular Carcinoma With a Diameter of ≤5cm

Not applicable Interventional Tianjin Third Central Hospital · NCT05361538

This study is testing whether a new microwave treatment for small liver tumors works better and causes fewer problems than the traditional method for patients with liver cancer.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorTianjin Third Central Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Tianjin, Tianjin)
Trial IDNCT05361538 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study compares the effectiveness of Microwave Spherical Ablation (MSA) and traditional Microwave Ablation (MWA) in treating single hepatocellular carcinoma tumors that are 5 cm or smaller. The focus is on evaluating progression-free survival, overall survival, local progression rates, complete ablation rates, and complication rates between the two techniques. MSA aims to provide more precise ablation with less damage to surrounding healthy liver tissue, particularly beneficial for patients with liver cirrhosis. The study involves patients who have been diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma and are opting for microwave ablation instead of surgery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 75 with a single hepatocellular carcinoma lesion ≤5cm and Child Pugh A or B liver function who refuse surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with prior treatment for the lesion, portal vein invasion, extrahepatic metastases, severe cardiopulmonary insufficiency, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment outcomes and reduced complications for patients with early-stage liver cancer.

How similar studies have performed: While traditional microwave ablation has been widely used, the novel approach of Microwave Spherical Ablation is still being evaluated for its effectiveness compared to established methods.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Patient has high risk factors for HCC and was first diagnosed of HCC by by contrast-enhanced imaging (CECT/CEMRI/CEUS) and/or pathology ;
2. Age range 18 to 75 years old;
3. Single lesion with tumor diameter ≤5cm;
4. Patient refuses surgery and determines to undergo microwave ablation
5. Liver function Child Pugh A or B;
6. No extrahepatic metastasis or portal invasion;
7. Patient signs the informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. The lesion has received treatment, including local ablation therapy and TACE therapy, etc;
2. With portal vein invasion or extrahepatic metastases;
3. Patient is with severe cardiopulmonary insufficiency.
4. Patient is a pregnant or breastfeeding women.
5. Patient is considered to be unsuitable to participate in the study

Where this trial is running

Tianjin, Tianjin

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Hepatocellular CancerMicrowave AblationMicrowave Spherical AblationPrognosis
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.