Objective:To study the efficacy and prognosis of radio-frequency ablation (RFA) for the treatment of hepatic hemangiomas. Methods:Ulthrasound-guided RFA was conducted in 16 patients with hemangiomas(20 lesions

3.0～10.0 cm in diameter)bv using the Li-De generator and the 7- needle electrode. Lesions >3.5cm in diameter were given multiple overlapping ablations that encompassed the entire les- ions.The operation was performed under local anesthesia in association with systemic analgesia. Results:The procedure was successfully accomplished in all the 16 patients. Adverse reactions happened at 2 ～5 postoperative days

including local pain and discomfort

pyrexia

and elevations of ALT levels. No bile leakage or hemorrhage occured.Follow-up observations in 16 patients for 1～3 years (mean

1 years and 8 months)showed a complete response (CR)in 15 patients and a partial response (PR)in l patient by one mission of RFA

the effective rate (CR+PR)being 100%.The hepatic hemangiomas decreased by a mean of 62.0%(range

50.1%～84.7%)in diameter. Conclusion:RFA is a safe and effective therapy for liver hemangiomas in properly selected patients by experienced hands.