Iodixanol-Loaded Thermosensitive Liposomes: A Novel Imaging Contrast Agent for Precision Hepatocellular Carcinoma Ablation

Abstract

In hepatocellular carcinoma ablation, unclear tumor boundaries and localization often lead to incomplete treatment. Traditional iodinated contrast agents, although effective in distinguishing tumors, have rapid metabolism, limiting sustained visualization during ablation. Iodixanol-loaded thermosensitive liposomes were prepared by using the thin-film hydration method. Their temperature-responsive properties and CT imaging performance were validated through in vitro experiments, while in vivo studies were conducted to evaluate their CT imaging efficacy and potential as an auxiliary imaging agent in ablation therapy. This study successfully created stable, iodixanol-loaded thermosensitive liposomes that effectively outline HCC boundaries and accurately show the ablation zone during treatment. Iodixanol-loaded thermosensitive liposomes enable precise localization of ablation margins, facilitating more accurate clinical assessment of therapeutic outcomes and treatment end points.

Keywords: ablation; computed tomography; hepatocellular carcinoma; image navigation; thermosensitive liposomes.