Published online Aug 16, 2023. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i23.5610
Peer-review started: May 29, 2023
First decision: July 6, 2023
Revised: July 6, 2023
Accepted: July 17, 2023
Article in press: July 17, 2023
Published online: August 16, 2023
Processing time: 78 Days and 18.3 Hours
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an effective and safe treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma that features a lower incidence of serious complications than surgical resection. Hemocholecyst caused by RFA is a rare complication of secondary damage to the intrahepatic bile duct that results in hemobilia.
Here we report on a case of a hemocholecyst caused by accidental injury during RFA that induced hematemesis and melena. Digital subtraction angiography revealed no gallbladder arterial injuries. After conservative treatment and transcatheter arterial chemoembolization, the patient’s condition stabilized, and she was discharged 1 wk later.
Therefore, when performing interventional procedures such as RFA, clinicians must be vigilant because even minor injuries can lead to serious complications such as hemocholecyst.
Core Tip: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an effective and safe treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma, with a lower incidence of serious complications than surgical resection. Hemocholecyst caused by RFA is a rare complication caused by secondary damage to the intrahepatic bile duct, resulting in hemobilia. Here, we report on a case of hemocholecyst caused by accidental injury during RFA that induced hematemesis and melena. Digital subtraction angiography did not reveal any gallbladder arterial injury. After conservative treatment and transcatheter arterial chemoembolization, the patient’s condition stabilized, and she was discharged after 1 wk.