Laparoscopic Liver Resection versus Radiofrequency Ablation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma within Milan Criteria: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background: Minimally invasive techniques have significantly gained popularity for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) based on the Milan criteria. However, whether or not laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a better treatment option remains debatable. We conducted a meta-analysis to review the published data comparing LLR and RFA for HCC through Milan criteria depending on tumor recurrence risk and survival.