Combination of repeated single-session percutaneous ethanol injection and transarterial chemoembolisation compared to repeated single-session percutaneous ethanol injection in patients with non-resectable hepatocellular carcinoma

Figure 1 Stratification algorithm for the treatment of advanced unresectable HCC.

Figure 2 Kaplan-Meier curve showing the survival probabilities of all 101 patients.

Figure 3 Comparison of Kaplan-Meier curves showing the survival probabilities of the four subgroups: TACE-PEI combination, PEI alone, secondary PEI after TACE, secondary PEI after best supportive care. The highest survival probabilities can be expected in the combination treatment group initially stratified to TACE followed by repeated single session PEI.

Figure 4 Comparison of the Kaplan-Meier curves for the parameter maximum tumor diameter (5 cm or less vs more than 5 cm) prior to stratification. The survival probabilities of the subgroup with smaller tumors are significantly higher (logrank: P = 0.02).

Figure 5 Comparison of the Kaplan-Meier curves for the parameter ascites prior to stratification (ascites vs no ascites). Significantly higher survival probabilities can be expected for the subgroup without ascites (logrank: P < 0.001).

Figure 6 Comparison of the Kaplan-Meier curves for the parameter decrease in serum CHE-levels after PEI (decrease >1 mU/mL vs no decrease). The subgroup with stable CHE levels can expect significantly better survival probabilities (logrank: P = 0.02).

Figure 7 Comparison of the Kaplan-Meier curves for the parameter number of tumor lesions (5 or less tumors vs more than 5 tumors). The survival probabilities of the group with 5 or less tumors are significantly higher (logrank: P < 0.05).