Microwave ablation for small liver tumors
Official title: Evaluation of Clinical Effectiveness of Microwave Ablation Using Starwave Microwave Generator for Small Liver Malignancies: A Prospective Single Center Study
Run by Seoul National University Hospital · NCT06426992 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests if a new microwave treatment can safely remove small liver tumors and reduce the chances of them coming back.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 20 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 128 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Seoul National University Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Seoul) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 30, 2024 |
| Main results expected | August 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | August 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | April 13, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06426992 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include patients with Child-Pugh Class A or B liver function and small liver tumors of 4 cm or less.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with multiple malignant tumors, larger tumors, or severe liver failure are unlikely to benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of microwave ablation using the Starwave Microwave Generator for treating small liver malignancies. It aims to achieve a safety margin of at least 5 mm around the tumor during the procedure and assesses the local recurrence rate after one year through follow-up imaging. Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma or metastatic liver cancer measuring 4 cm or less are eligible for this intervention. The study focuses on determining the technical success rate of this minimally invasive treatment approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could provide a less invasive option for patients with small liver tumors, potentially reducing recurrence rates.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promising results with microwave ablation for liver tumors, indicating that this approach is supported by existing evidence.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Child-Pugh Class A or B * Patients with suspected hepatocellular carcinoma or residual/recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma of 4 cm or less on MDCT, CEUS, or MRI performed within the last 60 days or Patients with suspected metastatic liver cancer of 4 cm or less on MDCT, CEUS, or MRI performed within the last 60 days, for whom microwave thermal ablation is being considered Exclusion Criteria: * In cases where there are three or more malignant liver tumors * When the maximum size of the tumor exceeds 4 cm * Diffuse infiltrative type of cancer with unclear tumor boundaries * When the tumor is adhered to the central hepatic portal vein, hepatic vein, or bile duct by 5 mm or more * Severe liver failure (Child-Pugh Class C) * In cases of vascular invasion by malignant liver tumors * Severe coagulopathy (platelet count below 50,000/mm³ or INR prolonged by more than 50%) * In cases of multiple extrahepatic metastases * Situations where it is highly unlikely to obtain appropriate data for research purposes
Where it's running
-
Seoul National University Hospital
Seoul, South Korea Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Hyun Hee Lee
- Email: redlion55@naver.com
- Phone: 82-2-2072-4177
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.