In radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of liver tumours, the clinically recommended minimum ablation margin around a tumour to minimise local recurrence is:

• A 5 mm margin of ablated tissue beyond the tumour edge ✓
• B 1 mm safety margin is sufficient
• C 10 mm margin to account for all satellite nodules
• D No margin needed if the tumour centre is ablated to >60°C

Explanation

The consensus recommendation for RFA of liver tumours (both HCC and metastases) is a 5 mm margin of ablated normal tissue surrounding the entire tumour. This accounts for microscopic tumour extension beyond the visible lesion boundary and ensures complete cell kill. A margin <5 mm is associated with significantly higher local recurrence rates. A 10 mm margin is desirable for larger or infiltrative tumours but not routinely achievable. Core temperature alone without adequate margin does not prevent marginal recurrence.

Reference: Grainger & Allison's Diagnostic Radiology, 7th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.