Hybrid Deep Learning Integrating Multimodal CEUS and Enhanced MRI to Optimize Early-Stage HCC Treatment Decisions

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

surgery: The surgery was performed in supine position under general anesthesia with open/laparoscopic liver resection (LH), and the main and secondary incisions were made based on the tumor location. Intraoperative ultrasound was routinely used to assess the tumor, remnant liver volume, and the feasibility of negative margins. The type of liver resection followed established guidelines.

ablation: Ablation is performed under ultrasound guidance and intravenous anesthesia, using the KY-2000 treatment device with disposable ablation needles and monitoring software. For tumors with a diameter of less than 2cm, a single needle is used; for tumors of 2cm or more, dual needles (needle spacing ≤ 2cm) are used. The ablation parameters are set to a power of 40-65W and a duration of 1-15 minutes, with immediate post-operative ultrasound (contrast) assessment of the ablation range.

Study summary

This study aims to address the issue of a lack of individualized basis for selecting liver resection (LH) or microwave ablation (MWA) in early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients to reduce the early recurrence rate (≤2 years). Given that existing machine learning-based recurrence prediction studies have failed to guide the optimal treatment plan selection, and that multidisciplinary consultations rely on guidelines (universality) and experience (subjectivity) which have their limitations, we propose to utilize artificial intelligence (AI), specifically the advantages of multimodal deep learning technology (which outperforms traditional machine learning by integrating complementary information to provide more accurate predictions), to establish a hybrid deep learning model that integrates contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features. This model will predict the probability of early recurrence (ER≤2 years) in patients and, based on this, recommend LH or MWA as the optimal first treatment option for newly diagnosed early HCC patients to optimize individualized treatment decisions.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Early recurrence status (binary: recurrence vs. non-recurrence within 2 years) — 2 years
  Follow-up strategy (telephone follow-up or clinical database): Routine check-ups, serum AFP tests, contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), or enhanced CT/MRI examinations are performed at 1, 3, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after treatment to confirm tumor recurrence. Follow-up starts from the date of surgery and ends at the first recurrence, death, or last follow-up (≥24 months). Early recurrence is defined as recurrence occurring within 2 years after surgical treatment. The outcome is recorded as a binary variable: recurrence (yes) or no recurrence (no) within 2 years.

Trial sites (1)

More The First Hospital of Jilin University trials in China

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