Hepatoesophageal Fistula After Radiofrequency Ablation for Hepatic Metastasis

Abstract

Although surgical resection remains the treatment of choice for hepatic tumors, radiofrequency ablation has emerged as a reliable alternative. Radiofrequency ablation is both less invasive and can be repeated after short intervals in cases of multiple lesions that cannot be treated with surgical resection. Liver abscess, which may progress to internal enteral fistula, is the most common complication of radiofrequency ablation. Here we present the first case report in the literature of a rare complication of hepatoesophageal fistula after radiofrequency ablation for colon cancer with liver metastasis. This case was well managed with percutaneous abscess drainage, antibiotics, and separation of the hepatoesophageal fistula using an esophageal stent.