Preablation three-dimensional ultrasonography can predict therapeutic effect and local tumor progression after radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma

•Ablative margin (AM) of RFA is independent predictor for local tumor progression.•AM can be predicted from positions of the tumor and RFA electrode with 3D-US.•3D-US data are collected immediately after puncture of the electrode.•AM by 3D-US is in good agreement with that by CT/MRI.•No local progression was observed in nodules with AMs >3 mm predicted by 3D-US.